Closed Automated Cell Processing for Multiplex Blood Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated devices for density gradient-based cell separation in closed systems can only process one sample at a time, posing obstacles for clinical translation and increasing the risk of cross-contamination, while conventional open systems are inefficient for parallel processing.
Innovation Solution
A closed automated system using a centrifuge with a rotor, processing chamber, and piston controlled by a hydraulic pump, allowing for simultaneous processing of multiple samples through a disposable tubing kit and non-invasive peristaltic pumps, enabling flexible orientation of the processing chamber for efficient fraction extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional open systems are used for cell processing, then ease of operation is improved, but cross-contamination risk increases and parallel processing capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable single-use cell processing cassettes that are pre-filled with reagents and sealed. Each cassette is used for one complete cell processing run and then discarded, eliminating cross-contamination risks between samples while maintaining ease of operation. The disposable nature ensures sterility without requiring complex sterilization procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a closed automated processing environment with controlled atmosphere that isolates samples from external contamination sources. The sealed cassettes operate within this controlled environment, preventing cross-contamination while allowing automated manipulation of samples through robotic arms and transfer mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If conventional open systems are used for cell processing, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity decreases due to sequential processing
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the cell processing workflow into separate modular cassettes, each capable of independent operation. Multiple cassettes can be prepared and processed in parallel within the same automated system, with each cassette handling a complete cell processing sequence independently. This segmentation enables simultaneous processing of multiple samples without increasing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated cell processing system is designed with universal components that can handle multiple cassette types and processing protocols. The robotic transfer mechanisms, centrifugation system, and fraction collection apparatus can accommodate various cell processing applications (cell separation, washing, concentration) across multiple samples simultaneously, maintaining ease of operation while boosting productivity.
3Reliability
If automated closed systems are used for density gradient-based cell separation, then cross-contamination risk is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex sterilization and cleaning mechanisms with simple disposable cassettes that eliminate cross-contamination by design. Each cassette is sealed and single-use, requiring no complex validation or cleaning protocols, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high reliability for preventing cross-contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The cassettes are pre-configured with all necessary reagents, buffers, and collection chambers in their correct positions and concentrations. The system requires minimal setup or programming by the user - simply load the cassette and the automated system handles the rest. This self-service approach reduces operational complexity while maintaining closed-system reliability for cross-contamination prevention.
4Reliability
If automated closed systems are used for cell processing, then cross-contamination risk is reduced, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The disposable cassettes are designed as plug-and-play units that eliminate the need for complex setup, sterilization, or validation procedures. Users simply load the pre-prepared cassette into the automated system, and the closed environment ensures cross-contamination prevention automatically. This approach maintains ease of operation while ensuring reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an automated robotic intermediary that handles all sample manipulation, transfer, and processing steps within the closed environment. This intermediary performs tasks such as cassette loading, sample transfer between chambers, centrifugation control, and fraction collection, eliminating the need for manual operations that would compromise the closed system while maintaining user-friendly operation.
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 facilitates parallel processing of multiple samples in a closed environment, reducing cross-contamination and labor costs, while maintaining sterility and enhancing processing throughput and cell product quality.
Implementation Method 1
a centrifuge having a rotor, said centrifuge being configured to centrifugate a blood sample
Implementation Method 2
actuation of the piston making the piston move dispels fractions of the blood sample during centrifugation or at rest to at least one fraction bag
Data Source
AI summary
A closed system for blood sample processing to separate biological components, and methods of cell selection from a blood sample. The system has a centrifuge having a rotor, a processing chamber containing a blood sample, and a piston housed in the processing chamber. A plurality of tubes connects the processing chamber the blood sample. Actuation of the piston dispels fractions of the blood sample during centrifugation or at rest to at least one fraction bag. The processing chamber may be moved between a horizontal orientation that is assumed during centrifugation, and a vertical position while no centrifugation is performed.