Compounding Manifold with Isolated Channels for Aseptic Dosing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing compounding devices face inefficiencies in setup time, downtime during source container replacement, and accuracy at small dispensed volumes, with issues related to aseptic conditions and intuitive operation, particularly in fluid path connections.

Innovation Solution

A compounding device with a manifold and transfer set that includes separate channels for primary and secondary ingredients, ensuring fluid isolation and intuitive operation, along with a strain relief clip and occlusion sensors to enhance accuracy and ease of use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate channels for primary and secondary ingredients are used in the manifold, then fluid isolation and mixing prevention are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefluid isolationVSAvoidmanifold structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The manifold is divided into separate channels - a first channel for primary ingredients and a second channel for secondary ingredients. This segmentation prevents fluid mixing within the manifold structure itself, allowing each ingredient type to be delivered through dedicated pathways that only converge at the final mixing point (the bag), thereby improving reliability while maintaining manageable complexity through functional separation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If intuitive operation and aesthetically pleasing interface are prioritized, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser interfaceVSAvoidinterface design
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transfer set utilizes color-coded components including a colored strain relief clip and colored caps that match corresponding ports. This visual coding system provides an intuitive interface that guides users through the connection process, making operation easier while the aesthetic appeal enhances user experience. The complexity is managed by using simple visual cues rather than complex control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Solution Approach 2:

The strain relief clip acts as an intermediary component that facilitates intuitive connection between the transfer set and compounding device. Its distinctive appearance and functional design provide tactile and visual feedback to users, making the connection process straightforward and reducing operational complexity through ergonomic design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If strain relief clip and occlusion sensors are added, then accuracy and error prevention improve, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedispensed volume accuracyVSAvoidsensor integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Occlusion sensors are integrated into the transfer set to provide real-time feedback on fluid flow conditions. These sensors detect blockages or abnormalities in the fluid path and can alert the system or operator, thereby improving measurement precision and preventing errors in the compounding process. The feedback mechanism enhances reliability without requiring complex additional systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The transfer set appears to be designed as a disposable component, with the strain relief clip and sensors integrated into a single-use assembly. This approach allows for precise measurement and sensing capabilities without the complexity of maintaining and calibrating permanent sensor systems, as the entire assembly can be replaced rather than repaired.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS12370355B2Compounding device, system, kit, software, and method
Publication Date: 2025.07.29 B BRAUN MEDICAL INC
  • US12370355B2 patent drawing
  • US12370355B2 patent drawing
  • US12370355B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An exemplary compounding system and method can include a transfer set that includes a manifold for assisting in transferring a plurality of ingredients from supply container(s) to a final container. The manifold can include a first channel in fluid communication with at least one primary ingredient, and a second channel in fluid communication with a plurality of secondary ingredients. The first channel and second channel can be in fluid isolation from each other such that the at least one primary ingredient does not mix with the plurality of secondary ingredients within the manifold. The transfer set can include a plurality of inlet lines in fluid communication with the manifold and two outlet lines configured for connection to two separate pumps and eventually being in fluid communication with the final container.