Front-Loading Manifold Valve Assembly for Contamination Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microbiological manifolds face contamination risks due to rear-mounted clamping devices, which can lead to improper installation and biofilm buildup, complicating the processing of fluid samples and requiring visual verification that increases the risk of contamination and false test results.
Innovation Solution
A front-loading and locking valve assembly with a coupling assembly that includes a lock collar and biasing member, allowing for secure mounting of the valve core unit without a rear clamping device, reducing contamination entry points and simplifying verification of proper installation through a single front opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rear clamping device is used to secure the valve, then the valve can be held in place, but the risk of contamination increases and proper installation verification becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional valve mounting approach by transitioning from rear clamping to front-loading. The valve core unit is loaded from the front through a single opening, and the coupling assembly secures it from the front side, eliminating the need for rear access. This inversion resolves the contradiction by making the system more reliable through front-side securement while simultaneously reducing contamination risk by eliminating rear openings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the clamping function from the rear of the system and relocates it to the front. The coupling assembly, which includes locking mechanisms, is positioned at the front to perform the securing function that previously required rear clamping. This extraction eliminates the harmful rear opening while maintaining the necessary valve securement through front-side components.
2Reliability
If a rear clamping device is used to secure the valve, then the valve can be held in place, but visual verification of proper installation becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly incorporates self-verifying features that allow the operator to confirm proper valve installation by observing indicators at the front of the system. The design includes visual cues such as aligned features, color-coded indicators, or mechanical interlocks that are visible from the front, enabling the system to self-verify correct installation without requiring the operator to inspect the rear clamping mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
By inverting the mounting approach to front-loading, the patent makes installation verification simpler. All necessary verification features are positioned at the front where they can be easily observed, eliminating the need for operators to reach around and inspect rear clamping devices. The coupling assembly's front-side location allows for intuitive visual confirmation of proper valve secment.
3Ease of operation
If a rear opening is provided for clamping, then the valve can be secured from the back, but additional contamination entry points are created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful rear opening from the system design entirely. By relocating the clamping function to front-side coupling assembly components, the rear opening is eliminated. The coupling assembly, with its locking mechanisms and securing features, performs the valve mounting function from the front, removing the contamination pathway while maintaining ease of operation through front-side access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the mounting direction from rear to front. Instead of providing a rear opening for clamping, the system provides a front opening for loading the valve core unit. The coupling assembly secures the valve from the front, making the rear solid and closed. This inversion eliminates contamination entry points while maintaining operational ease through front-side loading and securing.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly used in a manifold system fix processing fluid samples includes a body, a valve member, and a coupling assembly. The body defines a fluid passage and a valve passage in communication with the fluid passage and receiving at least a portion of the valve member therein. The valve member is selectively movable over a range of travel between an open position, in which fluid can flow through the fluid passage, and a closed position, in which the valve member occludes the fluid passage. The coupling assembly includes a coupling member and a retention lug. The retention lug is connected to one of the body and the coupling member. The other of the body and the coupling member defines a lug raceway configured to removably receive the retention lug therein to removably mount the coupling member to the body with the valve member being movably retained therebetween.