Bioprocessing Bag Port Mating Ring Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bioprocessing systems face challenges with cumbersome and difficult installation of port plates due to the lack of fixation to single-use bags, and standard ports lack additional structural functionality for probe support and alignment.
Innovation Solution
Modified bag ports with integrated features such as twist locks, snap locks, and mating rings that can be locked to provide structural support, alignment, and additional functionalities like probe support and attachment mechanisms, allowing for easier installation and secure positioning of port plates and probes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard ports with barbs are used for fluid connection, then fluidic access is provided, but the ports lack structural functionality for probe support and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The port structure is designed to perform multiple functions: fluid connection through barbs, structural support for probes, alignment features for positioning, and attachment points for port plates. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components for each function, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ports are used for fluid transfer and sampling, then functional capability is improved, but installation of port plates becomes cumbersome and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment features are pre-integrated into the port structure during manufacturing, including alignment pins or markings that guide the port plate positioning. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex manual alignment during installation, making port plate attachment simple and accurate even when multiple ports are involved.
3Reliability
If ports are welded to the bag, then fluidic connection is established, but additional structural functionality cannot be easily attached
Solution Approach 1:
The port structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: the welded portion for fluidic connection to the bag, and separate attachment features (such as threaded holes, snap-fit mechanisms, or magnetic elements) for attaching structural components like port plates and probe supports. This segmentation allows both reliable welding and versatile attachment to coexist without interference.
4Ease of manufacture
If no alignment features are provided, then manufacturing is simpler, but positioning accuracy of ports and port plates is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment features such as alignment pins, positioning keys, or interlocking geometric shapes serve as intermediary elements between the port structure and the port plate. These intermediaries ensure precise positioning during assembly while being simple enough to manufacture using standard welding and forming processes, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and positioning accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A bioprocessing system for use in carrying out a biomanufacturing process is provided. The system includes a single-use bag configured to carry out a bioprocessing operation with at least one port welded to the single-use bag. The at least one port has a channel for providing fluidic access to an interior volume of the single-use bag. The system further includes at least one mating ring. The at least one port includes a first feature configured to engage with a corresponding second feature of the at least one mating ring, such that the at least one mating ring can be locked to the at least one port. The mating ring and bag port are configured to provide an array of structural functionalities to aid the assembly and use of the bioprocessing system.