Bioreactor Nutrient Monitoring Feedback Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional bioproduct manufacturing in bioreactors is inefficient due to time-consuming analytical processes and retrospective data analysis, which limits the ability to optimize nutrient levels in real-time, leading to suboptimal bioproduct production and quality assurance.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a method that intermittently or continuously analyzes nutrient concentrations in bioreactors using online sampling and analytical devices, processing the data with algorithms to automatically add nutrient media when levels fall below target values, thereby maintaining stable nutrient levels and optimizing bioproduct production.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional analytical tools are used to monitor nutrient levels, then data can be obtained for retrospective analysis, but the analysis is time-consuming and cannot be used for real-time optimization

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenutrient concentration data accuracyVSAvoidanalysis time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback control system where nutrient concentration measurements are continuously taken and fed back to a control algorithm that automatically adjusts nutrient media addition. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables real-time optimization of bioproduct production by using current data to make immediate control decisions, eliminating the retrospective analysis delay inherent in conventional methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual analytical processes with automated online sensors and computer-based control systems. Analytical devices continuously monitor nutrient levels and feed data to algorithms that automatically determine feeding strategies, substituting time-consuming manual analysis and decision-making with automated electronic measurement and control systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If nutrient levels are monitored and adjusted manually, then some optimization can be achieved, but the process requires large amounts of manual labor and is inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebioproduct production efficiencyVSAvoidmanual labor requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service automation where the control algorithm autonomously monitors nutrient levels, calculates optimal feeding amounts, and executes nutrient media addition without human intervention. The automated system serves itself by continuously making decisions and adjustments based on real-time sensor data, eliminating the need for manual monitoring and control operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs advanced computational algorithms that rapidly process sensor data and generate control decisions in real-time. These sophisticated algorithms accelerate the decision-making process, enabling the system to respond quickly to changing nutrient conditions and optimize production efficiency at speeds impossible for manual operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #38Strong oxidants (Accelerated oxidation)

3Productivity

If real-time monitoring is implemented, then bioproduct yield can be increased, but the device complexity increases with online sensors and automated control

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebioproduct yieldVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a multi-functional integrated control system that combines sensing, data processing, decision-making, and actuation capabilities in a single automated platform. The control algorithm serves multiple functions: it processes nutrient concentration data, determines optimal feeding strategies, calculates dosing amounts, and controls delivery mechanisms, thereby managing complexity through functional integration rather than separate dedicated components for each task.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Loss of time

If conventional batch processing is used, then the process is simple to operate, but production time is extended and efficiency is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduction timeVSAvoidprocess simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from static batch processing to dynamic continuous control by implementing real-time monitoring and adjustment of nutrient levels. The system continuously adapts feeding rates and compositions based on current bioreactor conditions, enabling production optimization throughout the entire process rather than relying on predetermined batch protocols. This dynamic approach reduces production time while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9212379B2Nutrient monitoring and feedback control for increased bioproduct production

Publication Date: 2015.12.15 BIOGEN MA INC

AI summary

The present invention pertains to methods of increasing the efficiency of producing a bioproduct. In some embodiments, the method increases the quantity of a bioproduct produced, or decreases bioproduct production time, in a bioreactor cell culture producing the bioproduct, the method comprising, (a) intermittently or continuously analyzing the concentration of one or more nutrients in the bioreactor cell culture; and (b) adding to the bioreactor cell culture additional nutrient media when the concentration of the one or more nutrients is lower than a target value.