In Situ Sensor Calibration via Sterile Fluid Delivery
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensor technologies used in bioprocess monitoring within bioreactors require periodic calibration, which is challenging due to the risk of contamination when removing sensors from sterile environments, and often necessitates off-line sample analysis.
Innovation Solution
A measurement system and method for in situ calibration of sensors, which includes a housing with a culture medium, a measurement probe with a sensor and channel, and a calibration unit that supplies a calibration fluid through the channel to the sensor, allowing for calibration without removing the sensor from the bioreactor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are removed from bioreactors for calibration, then calibration can be performed, but sterility is compromised and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
A sterile adapter is introduced as an intermediary component between the sensor and the calibration system. The adapter includes a sterile barrier that prevents contamination while allowing calibration fluid to reach the sensor through a controlled interface, thus maintaining sterility during calibration operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into separate sterile and non-sterile zones using the adapter assembly. The sensor remains in the sterile zone within the bioreactor, while the calibration fluid delivery mechanism operates in a non-sterile zone, with the sterile barrier creating a controlled interface between these zones
2Measurement precision
If off-line sample analysis is used for sensor correction, then calibration can be achieved, but additional analytical facilities and skilled personnel are required
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor calibration is performed in-situ within the bioreactor using the calibration fluid delivery system, eliminating the need for external analytical facilities. The system self-calibrates by directly exposing the sensor to known calibration concentrations without requiring separate analysis equipment or specialized personnel
3Duration of action of moving object
If sensors operate for extended periods in bioreactors, then continuous monitoring is achieved, but calibration accuracy deteriorates over time
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration fluid delivery system enables continuous or periodic calibration of the sensor while it operates in the bioreactor. The sterile adapter allows repeated calibration operations without removing the sensor, maintaining continuous monitoring capability while periodically restoring measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
Calibration is performed periodically at predetermined intervals during sensor operation. The system proactively recalibrates the sensor before significant drift occurs, ensuring measurement accuracy is maintained throughout the extended operational period
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
Enables accurate and sterile in situ calibration of sensors, preventing contamination and reducing the need for off-line sample analysis, thereby improving measurement reliability and efficiency in bioprocess monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
A rapid diffusion and dilution of the calibration fluid into the culture medium may be prevented
Implementation Method 2
the at least one measurement probe comprises a membrane encompassing the at least one sensor, configured to confine the calibration fluid at or around the at least one sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A measurement system is provided for in situ calibration. The measurement system includes a housing including a culture medium and measurement probe arranged in the culture medium. The measurement probe includes an opening, a sensor, and a channel arranged from the opening to the sensor. The measurement system further includes a calibration unit connected to the opening and configured to supply a calibration fluid to the sensor via the channel.