Integrated Cell Processing Cartridge for Elutriation and Spinoculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cell processing technologies require separate components and significant space for performing elutriation and spinoculation, leading to workflow complexities and inefficiencies, particularly at high volumes, and often involve substantial supplementary fluid use with waste generation.
Innovation Solution
An integrated cartridge system with shared rotor and selector valves for both elutriation and spinoculation sub-modules, allowing for automated, parallel processing of cell samples using a robotic arm, reducing manual intervention and optimizing fluid use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate components are used for elutriation and spinoculation, then each process can be performed independently, but the device complexity and space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines elutriation and spinoculation processes into a single integrated cartridge with a shared rotor. The cartridge includes both an elutriation chamber and a spinoculation chamber that can be fluidically connected to a common fluid source and waste receptacle, eliminating the need for separate motors, fluid containers, and fluid pathways for each process.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotor serves multiple functions by being shared between both elutriation and spinoculation sub-modules. The same rotor can be used for both processes, and the fluid pathway system is designed to support both processes using common components where possible, reducing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If separate fluid containers are used for elutriation and spinoculation, then each process has dedicated fluid management, but the space requirements and workflow complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates fluid management by using a single fluid container and waste receptacle that serve both elutriation and spinoculation processes. The cartridge design allows fluid to be supplied to both chambers from a common source and waste from both chambers to be collected in a common receptacle, significantly reducing the space required for fluid management components.
3Reliability
If separate motors are used for elutriation and spinoculation, then each process has dedicated rotation control, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single motor to drive the rotor for both elutriation and spinoculation processes. The motor is integrated into the cartridge design and can control the rotation of the rotor regardless of which process is being performed, eliminating the need for separate motors and their associated control systems.
4Productivity
If significant volumes of supplementary fluids are used, then cell processing can be performed effectively, but waste generation increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated cartridge design allows for efficient fluid management where supplementary fluids are used only when necessary for each process. The system can control fluid flow to both chambers from a common source and collect waste from both chambers in a single receptacle, reducing the overall volume of waste generated compared to using separate fluid systems for each process.
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 integrated system enhances processing efficiency by automating multiple steps, reducing space requirements, and minimizing waste, while maintaining sterility and flexibility in handling various cell volumes.
Implementation Method 1
The elutriation process can include, for example, a counterflow centrifugal elutriation. This elutriation process is typically performed by rotating a fluid container containing the cells at a high rate.
Implementation Method 2
Spinoculation on the other hand, binds together cells of different types, such as cells and viral vectors, though the process also requires rotating a fluid container containing the cells at a high rate.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems, devices, and methods for spinoculation and counterflow centrifugal elutriation. In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a cartridge in an automated system, comprising a liquid transfer bus, a module fluidically coupled to the liquid transfer bus, the module comprising two sub-modules, each configured to perform separate cell processing steps, and at least one selector valve configured to direct fluid to at least one of the sub-modules.