Bioreactor Tube Management System for Sterile Fluid Routing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current bioreactor systems face challenges in organizing and controlling fluid lines, probes, and sensors, which can lead to obstructions, limited access, and difficulty in maintaining sterility.
Innovation Solution
The proposed system includes a container station with a support housing that allows for the secure positioning and management of fluid lines, probes, and sensors, using a modular design that minimizes obstructions and enhances accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If trays are mounted to organize and control fluid lines, probes, and sensors, then organization and control are improved, but the trays become obstructions and limit accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional tray mounting to three-dimensional tubular support structures that extend vertically and can be routed along the bioreactor vessel. This dimensional change allows lines and probes to be organized in the vertical space around the vessel rather than requiring horizontal tray surfaces, thereby reducing obstructions while maintaining organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible tubing and routing mechanisms that can adapt to the curved surfaces of the bioreactor vessel. These flexible elements can be routed along the vessel contour without requiring rigid tray structures, allowing for organized line management while minimizing protrusions and obstructions in the operational space.
2Reliability
If probes and sensors are held stationary at specified angles, then proper operation is ensured, but accessibility and ease of manipulation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable support structures that allow probes and sensors to be positioned at specified angles during installation but can be easily adjusted or removed when needed. The modular clamp and support systems enable dynamic repositioning while maintaining the required stationary positions during operation, thus balancing reliability with ease of manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system is divided into modular segments that can be independently adjusted. Each probe or sensor can be mounted on a separate adjustable support, allowing individual positioning and manipulation without affecting other components. This segmentation enables easy access for maintenance while ensuring proper operational angles are maintained during use.
Data Source
AI summary
A tube management system includes an elongated rack extending between a first end and an opposing second end; an elongated first shaft having a first end and an opposing second end, the first shaft being secured to the rack; a securing structure secured to the first shaft; a collapsible bag bounding a chamber; and a tubular member projecting from the collapsible bag, wherein the securing structure at least partially encircles the tubular member.