Hub Assembly for Simultaneous Multi-Vessel Fluid Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical manufacturing requires precise and simultaneous distribution of fluid from a large container to multiple smaller vessels, often necessitating separate measurement and verification, which can be costly and time-consuming, especially in maintaining aseptic environments without the use of expensive flow sensors or control valves.
Innovation Solution
A hub assembly with an input cap, distribution cap, and clamps that create a sealed plenum, allowing fluid to be distributed equally to multiple vessels through a network of conduit connectors, supported by a frame assembly that secures vessels at a predetermined distance, enabling simultaneous and precise fluid distribution without the need for expensive sensors or valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate measurement and verification is performed for each vessel, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple filling operations into a single simultaneous operation by connecting multiple vessels to a common distribution manifold. The system distributes fluid from a single source to multiple vessels at the same time, eliminating the need for sequential filling and separate verification of each vessel.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution manifold serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a common fluid source, a distribution network, and a verification platform. By incorporating verification ports that allow inspection of fluid distribution across all vessels through a single access point, the system achieves both filling and verification in one operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If flow sensors or control valves are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves precise fluid distribution through passive geometric design rather than active control mechanisms. The distribution manifold is designed with specific internal geometries and flow paths that naturally equalize fluid distribution to multiple vessels without requiring sensors, valves, or electronic control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes complex control components (flow sensors and control valves) from the system entirely. Instead of using active control mechanisms, the invention relies on passive hydraulic balancing through carefully designed flow paths and pressure equalization chambers that achieve precise distribution without additional components.
3Productivity
If multiple vessels are filled sequentially, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sequential filling operations into a single parallel operation. The distribution manifold connects to multiple vessels simultaneously, allowing fluid to be distributed to all vessels at the same time rather than one after another, thereby multiplying productivity without proportionally increasing system complexity.
4Manufacturing precision
If expensive flow sensors and control valves are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses inexpensive, simple geometric features molded into the distribution manifold rather than expensive electronic sensors and mechanical valves. The precision is achieved through manufacturing geometry rather than expensive components, significantly reducing material and assembly costs.
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
This solution allows for accurate and efficient distribution of fluid to multiple vessels simultaneously, reducing costs and time in maintaining aseptic conditions, while minimizing the risk of contamination and waste, and can be easily sterilized for single-use applications.
Implementation Method 1
The hub assembly may include a gasket that is disposed between the input cap and the distribution cap. The gasket may seal the plenum between the input cap and the distribution cap.
Implementation Method 2
The first clamp is disposed over the distribution cap and is engaged with the input cap to secure the input cap to the distribution cap. The second clamp is disposed over the input cap and is engaged with the distribution cap to secure the distribution cap to the input cap.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid distribution system is configured to distribute fluid from a first vessel to second vessels includes a hub assembly and a frame assembly. The hub assembly has an input cap, a distribution cap, a first clamp, and a second clamp. The input cap defines an inlet and the distribution cap is sealingly secured to the input cap with a plenum being defined between the input and distribution caps. The distribution cap includes conduit connectors that each defines an outlet in fluid communication with the plenum. The first clamp is disposed over the distribution cap and is engaged with the input cap to secure the input cap to the distribution cap and the second clamp is disposed over the input cap and engaged with the distribution cap to secure the distribution cap to the input cap. The frame assembly supports the hub assembly and is configured to secure each of the secondary vessels at a predetermined distance relative to the hub assembly.