Fluidic Manifold Cartridge Layout for High-Throughput Cell Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cell processing systems face complexity in fluidic pathways due to numerous conduits, leading to entanglement, inefficiency, and limited throughput, which complicates maintenance and reduces the number of modules that can be included.
Innovation Solution
A fluidic manifold with optimized pathways and valves within a cartridge, reducing the need for external conduits and enabling flexible workflow and high-throughput processing by controlling fluid flow automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple fluid conduits are used to connect modules for increased processing capacity, then throughput is improved, but conduit entanglement and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple fluid conduits into a single manifold structure that distributes fluid to multiple modules. Instead of using separate external conduits for each module connection, the manifold consolidates these pathways into one integrated component, reducing entanglement while maintaining the ability to service multiple modules simultaneously for high throughput processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold transitions fluid distribution from a two-dimensional external conduit layout to a three-dimensional internal structure. By routing fluid pathways through the volume of the manifold rather than along its surface, the system achieves efficient multi-module connectivity without the entanglement problems associated with external conduit routing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If numerous fluid conduits are routed between modules, then more modules can be connected, but maintenance difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fluid distribution function from the individual conduit connections and places it into a separate, accessible manifold component. This allows the manifold to be removed and serviced as a single unit rather than requiring disassembly and inspection of numerous individual conduit connections throughout the system, significantly easing maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold serves multiple functions: it distributes fluid to numerous modules, provides centralized control of fluid flow, and acts as a single serviceable component for maintenance. This multi-functionality allows the system to support many modules while keeping maintenance operations simple and efficient.
3Productivity
If fluid conduits are extended to reach more modules, then system capacity increases, but pressure drops increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold utilizes three-dimensional internal pathways to distribute fluid to multiple modules in parallel rather than requiring long sequential conduit runs. This spatial arrangement within the manifold dramatically reduces the total fluid path length and minimizes pressure drops while maintaining the capacity to serve numerous modules simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold divides the fluid distribution system into multiple independent pathways that branch from a common source. This segmentation allows fluid to reach multiple modules through shorter, parallel routes rather than one long conduit, reducing cumulative pressure losses and enabling higher system capacity with maintained pressure.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems, devices, and methods for automated fluid control within a cell processing system. In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a cartridge having a fluidic manifold comprising a first end panel, a second end panel, and a central panel connecting the first and second end panels, where each of the first and second end panels comprises a plurality of fluidic pathways model therein and a plurality of valves for controlling fluid flow through the plurality of fluidic pathways.