Fluid Pump Lever Arm Spring Alignment for Cell Processing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cell processing systems face challenges in maintaining consistent fluid flow between modules, which can disrupt cell processing steps due to fluid pump-induced pulses and misalignment issues.
Innovation Solution
A device for pumping fluid includes a rotor with rollers to compress a fluid conduit, lever arms with hinges, and a spring to maintain alignment and consistency, along with a motor and controller to regulate flow rate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a fluid pump is used to pump fluid through fluid conduits to multiple modules, then fluid transfer between modules is achieved, but pulses are generated in the fluid flow which disrupt cell processing steps
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is divided into multiple independent pumping units, each with its own roller and lever arm assembly. Each pumping unit can be independently controlled to pump fluid to different modules, allowing individual optimization of flow rates and elimination of pulses that would occur in a single centralized pump system.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump system employs dynamic control where each pumping unit's rotation speed and timing can be adjusted independently. The controller synchronizes the operation of multiple pumping units to deliver fluid at consistent flow rates, dynamically compensating for variations and eliminating pulses that would disrupt cell processing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fluid pumps with multiple parts are used to achieve specific flow rates, then flow rate control is improved, but parts can become misaligned during use reducing pumping effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The lever arm assembly incorporates a spring element that acts as a compliance mechanism, absorbing misalignment stresses before they can cause component failure or significant deviation from proper alignment. This pre-built compliance cushion allows the system to tolerate and correct minor misalignments that occur during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring constant and lever arm geometry are specifically designed to allow controlled movement and adjustment of component positions. This parameter optimization enables the system to maintain proper alignment through elastic deformation and geometric compensation, accommodating thermal expansion and manufacturing tolerances while maintaining pumping effectiveness.
3Ease of repair
If manual intervention is required to rectify pump issues, then complex problems can be addressed, but system operation time increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor flow rates, pressure, and component positions. When misalignment or performance degradation is detected, the system automatically adjusts operating parameters or alerts operators, enabling early intervention before problems require manual repair and minimizing operational downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump system includes self-diagnostic and self-adjustment capabilities where the controller automatically compensates for minor misalignments and performance variations. The spring-loaded lever arms self-adjust to maintain proper contact between rollers and fluid conduits, eliminating the need for frequent manual intervention and reducing operational downtime.
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 solution ensures consistent fluid flow, minimizes pulses, and maintains proper alignment, thereby supporting efficient and uninterrupted cell processing.
Implementation Method 1
The spring may be coupled to the distal portion. The spring may comprise a spring force between about 20 N and about 30 N.
Implementation Method 2
The rotor may include one or more rollers configured to compress a fluid conduit.
Implementation Method 3
The device may further include a motor operatively coupled to the rotor.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems, devices, and methods for controlling fluid flow within a cell processing system. In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a device having a rotor comprising one or more rollers configured to compress a first fluid conduit, a first lever arm defining a proximal portion and a distal portion, where the first lever arm comprises a first hinge at the proximal portion, and a second hinge in between the proximal portion and the distal portion, a spring coupled to the distal portion, and a second lever arm, where the first and second lever arms are aligned with the rotor and are configured to receive the first fluid conduit.