Integrated Bioreactor Cartridge for Automated Cell Processing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cell processing technologies require multiple separate devices, increasing operational complexity, spatial requirements, and environmental control challenges, especially at high volumes, making them difficult to manage and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A bioreactor system with integrated thermal compartments and a fluidic manifold for stable fluid transfer, capable of performing multiple cell processing steps like stirring, perfusion, and static processes within a single module, maintaining a stable thermal environment and automating workflows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate cell processing devices are used to perform different cell processing steps, then each step can be performed with dedicated equipment, but the operational complexity increases and spatial requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cell processing functions (bioreactor, thermal compartments, fluidic manifold) into a single integrated cartridge module. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate devices, reducing operational complexity while maintaining dedicated functionality for each processing step within the unified module.
Solution Approach 2:
The bioreactor module is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple cell processing steps (culturing, thermal processing, fluid transfer) within a single device. The module's multi-functionality allows it to replace several specialized devices while maintaining the reliability of each specific function through dedicated components.
2Reliability
If multiple separate cell processing devices are used, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the spatial requirements to house the devices increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge module employs a nested structure where the bioreactor, thermal compartments, and fluidic manifold are arranged in a compact, space-efficient configuration. The first and second thermal compartments are positioned adjacent to the bioreactor, creating a nested layout that minimizes the overall footprint while maintaining functional independence of each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement within the cartridge, positioning components in adjacent and overlapping configurations rather than linear arrangements. This dimensional optimization allows multiple functions to coexist in a compact volume, reducing the area required to house the processing equipment.
3Reliability
If multiple separate cell processing devices are used, then each device can perform its specific step, but the environmental control becomes increasingly burdensome
Solution Approach 1:
The bioreactor and thermal compartments are integrated into a single module with shared environmental control systems. This merging allows coordinated control of temperature and other environmental parameters across all processing steps, reducing the burden of managing separate control systems for each device while maintaining step-specific processing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated module incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor environmental conditions across all components and adjust control parameters accordingly. This coordinated feedback control ensures that each processing step receives the appropriate environmental conditions while simplifying the overall control complexity through centralized monitoring and adjustment.
4Ease of operation
If separate cell processing devices are used, then manual labor can manage each step, but the difficulty to manage workflow complexities increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge module is pre-configured with all necessary components (bioreactor, thermal compartments, fluidic manifold) in their correct positions and connections before use. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for complex setup and workflow coordination during operation, allowing manual management to focus on simple loading and processing rather than managing complex inter-device workflows.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system reduces operational complexity, minimizes spatial needs, and ensures consistent environmental conditions, enabling high-throughput, automated cell processing with improved efficiency and reduced manual labor.
Implementation Method 1
a first thermal compartment positioned adjacent the bioreactor, and a second thermal compartment positioned adjacent the bioreactor
Implementation Method 2
one or more of an impeller for helping to stir cells and reagents
Implementation Method 3
a perfusion filter for retaining cells while exchanging fluid
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems, devices, and methods for automated cell processing within a cell processing system. In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a cartridge comprising a bioreactor module comprising a bioreactor, a first thermal compartment positioned adjacent the bioreactor, and a second thermal compartment positioned adjacent the bioreactor, and a fluidic manifold coupling the first and second thermal compartments to the bioreactor.