Flexible Bioreactor Holder Geometry for Single-Use Process Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
It is difficult for end-users to translate bioprocess settings from traditional bioreactors to single-use bioreactors due to differences in geometry, which affects mixing times, agitation speeds, gas uptake rates, temperature control, pressure distribution, and cell density.
Innovation Solution
A bioreactor with a flexible container holder and geometry adaptation means, such as inserts or height-adjustment means, that mimic the geometry of a rigid multi-use bioreactor, improving bioprocess results in single-use bioreactors by providing a similar geometry and enhancing support, heat transfer, and drainability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a flexible container with different geometry is used in single-use bioreactors, then ease of manufacture and disposability are improved, but bioprocess results deteriorate due to geometric differences from traditional bioreactors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a rigid support structure as an intermediary element between the flexible container and the bioprocess environment. This support structure has a geometry designed to match traditional rigid bioreactors, thereby mediating the geometric differences and enabling consistent bioprocess results while retaining the benefits of flexible single-use containers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the flexible container by providing it with a rigid support structure that defines specific height-to-diameter ratios, bottom shapes (dish-shaped or hemispherical), and cross-sectional geometries. This parameter change allows the flexible container to achieve the desired geometric characteristics for reliable bioprocessing
2Reliability
If geometry adaptation means are added to the bioreactor, then bioprocess results and temperature control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid support structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides geometric adaptation to match traditional bioreactor shapes, offers mechanical support to prevent container rupture, enhances heat transfer for temperature control, and improves drainability. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
3Reliability
If the flexible container geometry is adapted to match rigid bioreactors, then mixing times and agitation speeds become more consistent, but the flexibility and ease of single-use disposal are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the bioreactor system into two distinct parts: a flexible single-use container and a rigid geometric support structure. This segmentation allows the flexible container to maintain its disposability and ease of manufacture while the rigid support structure provides the consistent geometry needed for reliable mixing and agitation performance
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 geometry adaptation means enable bioprocess results comparable to those of rigid multi-use bioreactors, reducing the risk of container rupture and improving temperature control and drainability.
Implementation Method 1
A flexible container holder with geometry adaptation means may also advantageously provide better support to the flexible container, lowering the chance of ruptures
Implementation Method 2
by increasing the contact area between the flexible container holder and the flexible container, heat transfer and hence temperature control, is improved
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a bioreactor (1), comprising: a flexible container holder (2) for holding a flexible container (3), having a bottom wall (4) for supporting the flexible container and a circumferential wall (5), extending along a longitudinal direction (X) of the flexible container holder; a mounting portion (6) for releasably mounting the flexible container in the flexible container holder; and geometry adaptation means (7) configured for adapting the geometry of the flexible container with respect to the flexible container holder, wherein the geometry adaptation means (7) are configured for providing the flexible container (3) with a flexible container geometry similar to a rigid multi-use bioreactor geometry during use.