Flow Manifold Restrictor Layout for Uniform Filtration Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manifold designs for bioprocessing filtration devices suffer from non-uniform flow distribution due to variations in filter media permeability, leading to uneven flushing and potential under- or over-loading of filtration devices, which can elevate total organic carbon extractables in the effluent stream.
Innovation Solution
A flow manifold system that includes a main conduit and branch conduits with flow restrictors and filters configured to evenly distribute fluid among multiple filtration devices, accounting for variations in filter media permeability to achieve uniform flow distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional U-type or Z-type manifold configurations are used, then the manifold can accommodate multiple filtration devices, but the flow distribution among the devices becomes non-uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing flow restrictors with specific resistance values to individual branch conduits based on their position in the manifold. Branch conduits closer to the inlet receive higher flow resistance, while those farther away receive lower resistance, compensating for the natural flow distribution gradient and achieving uniform flow across all filtration devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the flow resistance parameter of branch conduits by incorporating flow restrictors with calculated resistance values. The resistance is adjusted based on the distance from the inlet, transforming the non-uniform flow distribution into a uniform distribution across all branches
2Manufacturing precision
If bifurcation or symmetric splitting manifold designs are used, then flow distribution is naturally balanced, but the design becomes complicated as the number of branches increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the manifold into multiple branch conduits with individually adjustable flow restrictors, allowing each branch to be independently tuned. This segmentation enables complex multi-branch configurations while maintaining flow uniformity through localized resistance adjustment rather than requiring complex symmetric designs
3Manufacturing precision
If flow restrictors are added to branch conduits, then flow distribution uniformity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the flow resistance parameter through simple flow restrictors that can be integrated into existing branch conduits. Rather than redesigning the entire manifold geometry, the solution modifies the resistance parameter of each branch to achieve uniform flow distribution
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
The system ensures even flushing and flow distribution across filtration devices, reducing variations in flow rates and minimizing the elevation of total organic carbon extractables in the effluent stream.
Implementation Method 1
each branch conduit may include a flow restrictor configured to evenly distribute a fluid flowing through the flow manifold among the plurality of branch conduits
Data Source
AI summary
A series of flow manifolds are provided, where each is configured to achieve a uniform or near uniform flow distribution among multiple combined filtration devices, such as closed depth filter devices, pre-filters, or any other filtration devices that combine to increase an effective filter area. One flow manifold is configured to utilize flow restrictor elements in each branch, where the flow restrictor elements each have a relatively large flow resistance compared with that of filter devices. The flow restrictors may be selectively used on demand during a bioprocessing process. Another flow manifold may be a bifurcated manifold where the main conduit, primary branch conduit, and secondary branch conduits have differing internal diameters. Yet another flow manifold may utilize flow restrictors disposed within hose barbs of the filtration devices.