Cryopreservation Bag Molding Insert for Uniform Wall Thickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for manufacturing cryopreservation bags are complex, require multiple molds for different compartment configurations, and do not efficiently utilize storage space due to 2-D shape limitations, which is inadequate for specific volume requirements like 25mL capacity for cryogenic storage.
Innovation Solution
A simplified method involving a molding insert within superposed plastic film layers to create a 3-D shape bag, allowing for adjustable compartment configurations without changing the main sealing mold, using standard high-frequency sealing processes to produce bags with uniformly thick walls and variable volumes from 10ml to 500ml.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If standard high-frequency welding is used to seal two flat films, then the sealing process is simple, but the bag maintains a 2-D shape with limited storage capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from 2-D flat film sealing to 3-D bag formation by introducing a molding insert that defines the internal volume and shape of the bag during the sealing process, enabling the bag to achieve a predetermined 3-D configuration with adequate storage capacity
2Adaptability or versatility
If different two-part molds are used to manufacture bags with different compartment configurations, then various bag designs can be produced, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and requires multiple molds
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the molding function from the sealing function by using a removable molding insert that can be extracted after sealing, allowing the same mold to accommodate different insert configurations for various compartment designs without requiring multiple complete molds
Solution Approach 2:
The molding insert is designed to be movable and removable from the mold after sealing, enabling dynamic reconfiguration of the insert to create different compartment arrangements while using the same base mold structure
3Ease of manufacture
If bags are formed with non-uniform wall thickness, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the bag walls have inconsistent thickness which is disadvantageous for storage
Solution Approach 1:
The molding insert provides localized support and definition for the bag walls during sealing, ensuring that each region of the bag wall achieves uniform thickness according to the insert's geometry, while the overall process remains efficient
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
This method enables the production of versatile, cost-effective bags with uniform thickness and adjustable compartments, optimizing storage capacity and compatibility with cryogenic preservation needs by maintaining consistent wall thickness and adapting to various volumes without mold modifications.
Implementation Method 1
The facing plastics films are joined around a sealed peripheral edge... high frequency sealing around the periphery
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of manufacturing a bag (20) for the cryopreservation of thermolabile liquids. The manufacturing method is characterized by being versatile, simple and inexpensive and allows to manufacture single and multi-compartment bags without modifying the main sealing molds (31, 32). The relative size and the number of the compartments (28) can be modified without change in the molds. Only a closure sealing tool (50) must be adjusted as a function of the number of chosen compartments (28). The process is compatible with standard high frequency sealing processes. This method provides bags (20) with uniformly thick walls and with a predetermined bag volume.