Flow Distribution Manifold With Central Chamber for Cleaner Bioprocessing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid handling systems in bioprocesses are complex, have a high risk of contamination, and are difficult to clean due to the numerous valves and fluid connections.
Innovation Solution
A flow distribution device with a reduced number of diaphragm valves and a central common compartment design, where fluid connections enter from different directions, facilitating cleaning and reducing contamination risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple diaphragm valves are used to connect different fluid sources and collectors, then fluid management capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple diaphragm valves are merged into a single integrated flow distribution device with a central common compartment. The device provides multiple fluid connections (at least four) that all communicate with the same central compartment, eliminating the need for multiple separate valve assemblies while maintaining the ability to connect different fluid sources and fraction collectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow distribution device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a common inlet for multiple fluid sources, a distribution hub for chromatography columns, and a common outlet for multiple fraction collectors. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized valves.
2Reliability
If multiple diaphragm valves and connectors are used to avoid backflow and mixing, then fluid control reliability is improved, but cleaning difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with a modular structure where the flow distribution device can be easily separated from connected components. The internal flow paths are segmented into distinct regions that can be independently accessed for cleaning, while maintaining reliable fluid control through the central common compartment design.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal surfaces and flow paths are designed with homogeneous material properties and smooth transitions to eliminate dead zones and crevices where contaminants could accumulate. This uniform design maintains reliable fluid flow while facilitating comprehensive cleaning coverage.
Data Source
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AI summary
A flow distribution device for bioprocess systems, comprising: a flow distribution manifold (12; 112) comprising: at least four fluid connection conduits (14), wherein each fluid connection conduit (14) comprises a first end (18) for fluid connection and an opposite second end (20), and wherein at least three of the fluid connection conduits comprise a membrane (19a) and a valve seat (19b), which membrane (19a) can be put in at least two different positions in relation to the valve seat (19b) for allowing or preventing fluid flow between the first end (18) and the second end (20) of the fluid connection conduit (14); and a central common compartment (30) to which the second ends (20) of each of the fluid connection conduits (14) are connected, whereby the first ends (18) of each of the fluid connection conduits (14) can be in fluid communication with the central common compartment (30) and wherein the fluid connection conduits (14) are entering the central common compartment (30) from at least three different directions; wherein said flow distribution device (10) further comprises at least three membrane actuation members (41) which are provided in connection with one membrane (19a) of the flow distribution manifold (12; 112) each, wherein each of said membrane actuation members (41) is configured for actuating the membrane (19a) to be in at least two different positions in relation to the valve seat (19b), wherein a first position of the membrane (l9a) allows flow between the first end (18) and the second end (20) of the fluid connection conduit (14) and a second position of the membrane (19a) prevents flow between the first end (18) and the second end (20) of the fluid connection conduit (14).