Cell Processing Cartridge Pressure Control for Pulsation-Free Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cell processing systems lack integrated platforms that support continuous fluid transfer and analysis, leading to contamination risks, sample loss, variability in results, and inaccurate dosing due to unregulated fluid flow, particularly when handling small-volume transfers between processing modules and analytical tools.
Innovation Solution
A system with a cartridge and instrument interface that includes a pump module, sensor, and controller for precise fluid flow control, utilizing a pump actuator and pressure regulator to manage fluid flow, and a cartridge with modules for processing and analysis, along with selective fluid routing and adaptable positioning systems for analytical components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate cell processing devices are used for different processing steps, then each step can be performed with specialized equipment, but multiple fluid transfers between instruments are required which increases contamination risk and sample loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cell processing functions (isolation, expansion, washing, formulation, quality control) into a single integrated cartridge platform. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate devices and fluid transfers between instruments, thereby reducing contamination risk and sample loss while maintaining specialized processing capabilities through integrated modules
2Extent of automation
If analytical capabilities are integrated within the same platform as processing modules, then sample testing can be performed without manual intervention, but precise control mechanisms for fluid flow during processing are still lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates sensors that provide real-time feedback on fluid flow parameters to a control system. This feedback mechanism enables precise control of fluid flow during processing steps, ensuring accurate dosing and consistent sample preparation while maintaining automated analytical capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamically adjustable flow control mechanisms that can regulate fluid flow rates in real-time based on processing requirements. This dynamic control enables precise management of small-volume fluid transfers between processing components and analytical tools, improving both automation and precision
3Productivity
If unregulated fluid transfer is used between processing components, then fluid transfer is simple, but pulsation effects and inaccurate dosing occur which negatively impact process efficiency and cell product quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous fluid flow regulation that eliminates pulsation effects by maintaining steady, controlled flow throughout the transfer process. This continuous regulated action ensures accurate dosing and consistent sample preparation, thereby improving both process efficiency and cell product quality simultaneously
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex valve arrangements are used to direct fluid samples to analytical components, then fluid routing is achieved, but dead volumes are introduced which compromise accuracy of quality control testing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes complex valve arrangements from the fluid routing system and replaces them with a simplified direct flow control mechanism. This extraction of unnecessary components eliminates dead volumes while maintaining the ability to direct fluid samples to appropriate analytical components, thereby improving measurement precision and quality control testing accuracy
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 ensures controlled and consistent fluid flow, reducing contamination risks and improving workflow efficiency by minimizing pulsation effects and enhancing process reliability in cell processing and analysis.
Implementation Method 1
The rotor may include one or more rollers configured to compress the portion of the fluid conduit
Implementation Method 2
the pressure regulator may be configured to control the fluid flow from the chamber to the analytical tool when the fluid level is about equal to the predetermined fluid level
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods for integrated cell processing and analysis with precise fluid management are disclosed. The system includes a cartridge with processing modules connected by a fluidic bus with pressure regulation to control fluid flow between modules and to analytical tools. Methods for controlling fluid transfer by adjusting pump operational parameters in response to pressure measurements ensure precise sample delivery volumes and flow rates throughout the integrated platform. Fluid pulsations are reduced or prevented during the fluid transfer for accurate sample transfers. Fluid transfer steps coordinate fluid flow between an on-cartridge analytical module and/or off-cartridge analytical tools. The cartridge may include an analytical module with a channel selector to direct fluid samples from a plurality of fluid conduits to selected analytical chips. A positioning system with rack-and-pinion mechanisms enables precise movement of analytical chips along multiple axes to interface with analytical tools.