Flow Rate Measuring System for Cell Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accurate measurement and control of fluid flow rates in cell expansion systems are challenging due to variations in fluid dynamics, affecting the growth conditions of cells in these systems.
Innovation Solution
A flow rate measuring system comprising a weight measuring device, a holding assembly, and a processor that adjusts the pump rate based on real-time weight measurements to maintain the desired flow rate within a predetermined margin, ensuring consistent and accurate fluid delivery to cell growth chambers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a pump is used to move fluid in cell expansion systems, then fluid delivery is enabled, but accurate measurement and control of flow rates becomes challenging due to variations in fluid dynamics
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors fluid weight using load cells and feeds this information back to the processor, which adjusts pump operation in real-time to maintain accurate flow rates despite variations in fluid dynamics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical flow rate measurement with an indirect method using weight measurement (load cells) combined with electronic control, substituting mechanical measurement systems with a more precise electronic sensing and control system
2Adaptability or versatility
If flow rate varies in cell expansion systems, then fluid delivery is flexible, but growth conditions of cells are affected negatively
Solution Approach 1:
The processor receives continuous weight data from load cells and dynamically adjusts pump operation to maintain consistent flow rates, ensuring reliable growth conditions while preserving the ability to adapt fluid delivery to different cell expansion requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts pump operation based on real-time weight measurements, allowing flexible fluid delivery adaptation while maintaining consistent flow rates for reliable cell growth conditions
3Measurement precision
If real-time weight measurement is implemented, then flow rate accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load cells serve multiple functions: measuring fluid weight for flow rate calculation, monitoring fluid levels, and providing feedback for pump control, reducing the need for separate measurement devices and minimizing overall system complexity
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 effectively maintains fluid flow rates within ±5% accuracy across a wide range, from 0.025 to 1500 ml/min, enhancing the consistency and efficiency of cell growth processes.
Implementation Method 1
a weight measuring device adapted to weigh a container of fluid
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are described that relate to flow rate measuring systems that may be used in cell expansion systems (CES) and in methods for controlling fluid input into systems such as a CES.