Bioreactor Weight Monitoring via Load Cell Torque Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cell processing systems for bioreactors lack an efficient method to monitor the weight of the bioreactor without removing it from the system, which is crucial for maintaining controlled environments and ensuring accurate weight measurements during material addition or removal.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a load sensing unit within the cell processing system that can detect the weight of the bioreactor by using a load cell to measure the torque imparted by the bioreactor's weight on a pivotally mounted support, allowing for continuous monitoring without disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the bioreactor is removed from the cell processing system to measure its weight, then the weight measurement can be performed with a scale, but the controlled sterile environment is compromised and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the weight measurement function with the cell processing system by integrating a load sensing unit directly into the support structure. The load cell is incorporated into the pivotally mounted support, allowing the bioreactor to be weighed while remaining in place within the sterile housing, thus merging two previously separate functions (weight measurement and sterile processing) into a single integrated system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a load sensing unit as an intermediary component between the bioreactor and the support structure. This load sensing unit acts as a mediator that transfers the weight information from the bioreactor to the control system without requiring direct contact with external weighing equipment, thereby maintaining the sterile barrier while enabling accurate weight measurement
2Measurement precision
If the bioreactor is removed from the cell processing system to measure its weight, then the weight can be measured, but time is lost and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous weight monitoring by keeping the load sensing unit constantly connected to the bioreactor through the pivotally mounted support. The bioreactor can be weighed before, during, and after material addition or removal without interruption or removal from the system, ensuring continuous measurement capability that maintains operational flow and prevents downtime
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-measurement of the bioreactor weight through the integrated load sensing unit, eliminating the need for external weighing equipment or manual removal procedures. The bioreactor essentially weighs itself through the support structure's load cell, automating the measurement process and removing it from the operational workflow
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
Enables real-time weight monitoring of the bioreactor within the cell processing system, facilitating precise control over material handling and maintaining a sterile, controlled environment, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of cell processing operations.
Implementation Method 1
a load sensing unit operable detect a weight of the bioreactor... a load sensing unit comprises a load cell arranged such that a torque of the support is imparted onto the load cell
Data Source
AI summary
The present application provides a cell processing system for housing a bioreactor and methods associated therewith. The cell processing system is adapted to support the bioreactor. The cell processing system includes a load sensing unit operable to detect a weight of the bioreactor.