Bioreactor Filter Assembly with Opposing Feed and Harvest Flows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing perfusion filters in bioreactors are prone to clogging, which reduces their operational durability and efficiency in cell culture processes, despite previous solutions like recirculation of liquid media being difficult to implement in freely moving filter assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A bioreactor design with a filter assembly that allows harvesting and feed flows to operate in opposite directions, using flexible tubes to maintain filter movement and prevent clogging, with optional coaxial or parallel flow arrangements to minimize turbulence and nutrient loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a perfusion filter is used to remove liquid continuously, then productivity is improved, but the filter becomes clogged reducing operational durability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a recirculation system where liquid is pumped from the bioreactor, passed through the filter, and then returned to the bioreactor. This reverse flow pattern prevents clogging by continuously flushing the filter surface while maintaining productive liquid removal, thereby extending operational durability without sacrificing productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the filtration function from permanent liquid removal by implementing a recirculation loop. Liquid that would otherwise be discarded is instead recovered and returned to the bioreactor, allowing the filter to operate continuously without clogging while maintaining high cell density and productivity
2Duration of action of stationary object
If recirculation of liquid media is implemented to prevent clogging, then operational durability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The recirculation pump serves multiple functions: it removes liquid for filtration, returns filtered liquid to the bioreactor, and maintains continuous flow through the filter to prevent clogging. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system despite the added recirculation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the filtration system with the liquid handling system by integrating the recirculation pump and filter assembly into a unified operation. The filter assembly is positioned to work in conjunction with the existing bioreactor geometry, merging multiple functions into a compact configuration that minimizes added complexity
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
This design extends the operational period of perfusion filters by reducing clogging, maintaining high cell productivity, and minimizing nutrient loss, while allowing the filter to move freely within the bioreactor.
Implementation Method 1
The bottom surface of the filter consists of a liquid permeable, but cell-retentive membrane
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a bioreactor and a method for operating a bioreactor which comprises a chamber (100) capable of receiving a liquid media, and a filter assembly (200) comprising a perfusion filter (210; 212; 214). The filter assembly (200) is disposed in the chamber (100) and the filter assembly (200) is free to move within the chamber (100). The filter assembly (200) comprises means for coupling a harvesting flow through said filter (210; 212; 214) and means for coupling a feed flow through said filter in an opposite direction compared to the harvesting flow. Through this arrangement, the clogging prevention of the perfusion filter can be improved.