Bioreactor Nozzle System for Targeted Defoaming Agent Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bioreactors lack an efficient and non-intrusive method for detecting and remedying foaming conditions, leading to inadequate distribution of defoaming agents, which can harm biological processes and increase costs.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a bioreactor with a non-intrusive monitoring system using infrared devices and a nozzle system for precise delivery of defoaming agents, allowing for automated foam detection and targeted distribution within the bioreactor, ensuring efficient foam remediation with minimal agent usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If defoaming agents are added manually via drop method or feed tube, then foam can be remediated, but the distribution is inadequate and excessive agent may be used
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing the bioreactor to automatically detect foam conditions and trigger defoaming agent delivery without external intervention. The sensor network monitors foam levels and activates the nozzle system autonomously when thresholds are exceeded, eliminating the need for manual observation and addition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by positioning multiple nozzles at specific locations within the bioreactor to deliver defoaming agents precisely where foam is detected. Rather than uniform distribution, the system targets specific zones with foam problems, optimizing agent placement and reducing overall consumption.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If intrusive foam level detection systems are used, then foam can be detected, but the system introduces excessive defoaming agent and may harm the biological process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/intrusive detection methods with optical or electromagnetic sensors that can detect foam levels without physically contacting or intruding into the biological fluid. This substitution allows for non-invasive monitoring that doesn't disrupt the biological process or require additional chemical agents.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary sensing layer between the foam and the biological process. The sensors detect foam conditions from a distance or through non-contact means, acting as intermediaries that provide information without directly interacting with or potentially harming the biological system.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If defoaming agents are added to combat foaming, then foam is reduced, but quality, time, and expense increase in subsequent product development stages
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by detecting foam conditions early and responding immediately with targeted defoaming agent delivery. By addressing foam at its inception rather than allowing it to develop, the system prevents the need for extensive corrective measures later in the process, thereby protecting productivity in subsequent stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control where sensors continuously monitor foam levels and provide real-time information to the control system. This feedback loop allows for dynamic adjustment of defoaming agent delivery, ensuring that agents are added only when and where needed, thus minimizing impact on subsequent product development stages.
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 effectively detects foaming conditions and delivers defoaming agents in a controlled manner, reducing foam formation while minimizing agent usage, thereby enhancing bioprocessing efficiency and product quality.
Implementation Method 1
a non-intrusive monitoring system using infrared devices
Data Source
AI summary
A nozzle system for fluid deployment for treating a biological fluid within a bioreactor, having a bioreactor having an internal volume; an adjustable nozzle deployed within the internal volume; a reservoir capable of containing an agent; and a tubing connecting the reservoir and the adjustable nozzle, wherein the adjustable nozzle is capable of being adjusted to distribute a processing agent in a plurality of distribution streams.