Flow Cell Layout for Pathogen Reduction in Biological Fluids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid treatment systems are inefficient in effectively reducing pathogens and affecting cells in biological fluids, such as blood, without causing harm to other components.
Innovation Solution
A method involving multiple stages of fluid flow manipulation, including separation, reorientation, and recombination, combined with exposure to electromagnetic energy, particularly ultraviolet and visible light, to treat biological fluids, ensuring thorough exposure and controlled energy dosage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional fluid treatment systems are used, then the treatment process is simple, but the pathogen reduction efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cell is divided into multiple chambers (first chamber, second chamber, third chamber) separated by partition walls. Each chamber performs a specific function: the first chamber receives and treats the initial fluid flow, the second chamber receives and treats the redirected flow, and the third chamber collects the treated fluid. This segmentation allows the system to achieve thorough pathogen reduction through multiple treatment stages while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement of chambers and flow paths to achieve multiple treatment stages. By stacking chambers vertically or arranging them in three-dimensional space with controlled flow directions, the system maximizes the treatment efficiency within a compact volume, effectively using spatial dimensions to enhance pathogen reduction capability.
2Reliability
If multiple treatment stages are implemented, then pathogen reduction effectiveness increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple flow manipulation functions (separation, redirection, recombination) are merged into a single integrated flow cell structure. The partition walls serve dual purposes: they separate chambers for staged treatment and simultaneously guide flow directions. The outlet of the first chamber serves as the inlet for the second chamber, eliminating the need for external piping and complex flow control mechanisms between stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid flow itself serves the function of activating the treatment process. As fluid flows through the chambers, its movement automatically exposes different portions of the fluid to the treatment surface in each chamber. The flow pattern, driven by pressure differential between inlet and outlet, self-regulates the treatment process without requiring external control mechanisms.
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
Achieves significant pathogen reduction and cellular effects, such as inactivating viruses and modulating immune responses, while maintaining the integrity of other fluid components.
Implementation Method 1
The treating may include exposing fluid to energy, such as electromagnetic energy. The electromagnetic energy may include light that may have a wavelength in the ultraviolet spectrum.
Implementation Method 2
The treating may include exposing fluid to energy from several directions, e.g., top, bottom, sides, etc.
Data Source
Figure 1A~2B
Figure 2C~2G
Figure 2F~2I
AI summary
Embodiments are described for treating a fluid, e.g., a biological fluid. The embodiments may include systems, apparatuses, and methods. Embodiments may provide for a flow cell, with a plurality of manipulation elements, through which a fluid is flowed. The fluid may be treated (e.g., exposed to energy) as it moves through the flow cell. In embodiments, the flow cell may be used to inactivate pathogens in the fluid.