Combinatorial Fluid Switching for Multi-Path Cell Therapy Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated cell engineering systems face challenges in efficiently controlling fluid flow through multiple pathways, leading to high manufacturing costs and inconsistencies in cell therapies, which hinders commercialization due to the need for complex valve systems and manual handling.
Innovation Solution
A combinatorial fluid switch system utilizing two-position valves to control fluid flow through multiple pathways, allowing fluid flow from one input to one output when specific valve positions are configured, reducing the number of valves required and enhancing process efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional valve systems are used to control fluid flow through multiple pathways, then fluid flow control is achieved, but the number of valves increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The combinatorial fluid switch enables a single valve to perform multiple flow control functions by configuring it with multiple flow paths (e.g., a first valve with first, second, third, and fourth flow paths). This multi-functional design allows one valve to control fluid flow between multiple inputs and outputs, replacing what would traditionally require multiple separate valves, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive fluid flow control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a combinatorial dimension to valve operation by enabling a valve to switch between multiple flow path configurations simultaneously. The combinatorial fluid switch system allows valves to operate in different dimensional states (open/closed positions) to create various flow patterns, effectively increasing the control capacity of each valve without adding more valves to the system.
2Manufacturing precision
If more valves are used to control multiple fluid pathways, then fluid flow control precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By designing valves with multiple integrated flow paths (e.g., a first valve with four flow paths connecting multiple inputs and outputs), the system achieves precise fluid flow control without requiring multiple separate valves. This reduces the total component count and associated manufacturing costs while maintaining the precision needed for controlling cell therapy fluid pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The combinatorial fluid switch merges multiple flow control functions into a single integrated valve structure. By combining what would traditionally be separate valve components into one unified device with multiple flow paths, the system reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while preserving the precise control capabilities needed for automated cell engineering.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fluid control systems are used, then fluid flow control is achieved, but process efficiency decreases and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The combinatorial fluid switch system is pre-configured with multiple flow paths and valve positions designed to handle various fluid flow scenarios. This preliminary configuration allows the system to rapidly respond to different processing requirements without requiring sequential setup or reconfiguration, thereby improving process efficiency and productivity in automated cell engineering operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic valve positioning where valves can be opened or closed based on real-time processing requirements. This dynamic control allows the combinatorial fluid switch to adapt fluid flow paths during operation, enabling more efficient processing by directing fluids through optimal pathways and reducing idle time or unnecessary flow steps.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides combinatorial fluid switches that allow for the selection of a single fluid flow-path, while controlling multiple flow-paths. The combinatorial fluid switches can be used in various biological systems and processes, included automated cell engineering systems.