Closed Cartridge Pneumatic Liquid Transfer for Cell Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid transfer systems for cell preparation and processing, such as those using syringe pumps or peristaltic pumps, require skilled operators and can be costly and prone to errors like pipe detachment, making them unsafe and expensive for automated cell handling.
Innovation Solution
A closed cartridge system with a liquid delivery mechanism that uses air pressure to transfer liquids between containers within the cartridge, ensuring sterile conditions and reducing operator skill requirements through a simple and safe pneumatic pressure-feeding method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a syringe pump is used for liquid transfer, then liquid transfer can be automated, but sterile conditions cannot be secured and expensive safety equipment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the liquid transfer function into two independent parts: a reusable pump unit and disposable sterile cartridges. The cartridge contains pre-filled syringes and passages that are sterilized as a complete unit, separating the non-sterile pump mechanism from the sterile liquid handling components. This allows automation while maintaining sterility through single-use cartridges.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs disposable sterile cartridges that are discarded after a single use. Each cartridge contains pre-filled syringes and passages that are sterilized and sealed, eliminating the need for repeated sterilization of expensive equipment. The low-cost disposable nature allows automated liquid transfer without requiring expensive safety cabinets or complex sterilization systems.
2Extent of automation
If a peristaltic pump is used for liquid transfer, then automated liquid transfer is achieved, but operator skill is required and pipe detachment problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is designed as a self-contained unit with pre-arranged passages and pre-filled syringes that automatically connect to the pump unit. The system eliminates the need for operators to manually arrange passages or adjust pump settings, as the cartridge automatically configures the liquid transfer path upon insertion. This self-service design removes skill requirements and prevents detachment errors.
Solution Approach 2:
All preparatory actions are performed in advance during cartridge manufacturing: passages are pre-arranged, syringes are pre-filled with liquids, and connections are pre-configured. The cartridge arrives at the user site ready-to-use, eliminating the need for operator skill in arranging passages or configuring the system. The preliminary preparation ensures consistent, error-free operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual cell preparation is performed by skilled operators, then complex processes can be handled, but expense and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge design provides multi-functionality through interchangeable cartridges that can handle different cell preparation protocols. Each cartridge is configured for specific processes (e.g., cell culture, processing, differentiation), but the overall system can perform multiple functions by simply changing cartridges. This universal design enables automated handling of complex processes without requiring manual intervention for each step.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated pump system that controls liquid transfer through pressure regulation. The pump unit automatically performs aspiration and injection operations that previously required skilled manual manipulation, while the pre-configured cartridges ensure proper process sequencing. This substitution maintains process complexity handling while dramatically reducing time and cost.
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 enables safe and cost-effective automated liquid transfer for cell preparation and processing, maintaining sterile conditions without the need for a safety cabinet and reducing the risk of errors and operator skill requirements.
Implementation Method 1
an air filter arranged at the opening and separating inside and outside of the cartridge so as to allow gas replacement
Implementation Method 2
a liquid delivery mechanism that supplies air into the cartridge and transfers a liquid from the first container to the second container
Data Source
AI summary
A cartridge used for cell preparation or cell processing includes a first container configured to store a liquid; an air filter arranged at an opening; a first passage connected to the first container and the opening and configured to allow the liquid suctioned from the first container to flow in; a second passage connected to the first passage and the opening and configured to allow the liquid to flow in from the first passage; and a second container connected to the second passage and configured to allow the liquid to flow in from the second passage if the first passage is pressurized with the liquid having flown into the first passage.