Integrated Fluid Conduits in Disposable Radioisotope Synthesis Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disposable modules for radioisotope synthesis devices face challenges such as complex assembly, risk of human error, leaks, and poor reaction homogenization due to the use of flexible tubing and compact design, which complicates the synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals like 18F-FDG.
Innovation Solution
A disposable module with integrated fluid conduits and a rigid connection system, eliminating the need for flexible tubing, and using ethylene-norborene copolymer and polypropylene materials for the support and interface plates, ensuring reliable and efficient fluid transfer and reactor integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flexible tubing is used to connect reagent bottles and reactor on the support plate, then the device can be compact and adaptable, but assembly errors increase and leaks occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the fluid conduits directly into the support plate structure, merging the previously separate components (support plate and flexible tubing) into a single rigid integrated system. This eliminates the need for manual assembly of flexible tubes while maintaining adaptability through the modular disposable module design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a disposable support plate that is discarded after a single use. This eliminates the need for complex cleaning and sterilization procedures, ensures consistent performance without degradation from previous uses, and allows for pre-integrated conduits to be manufactured with high precision.
2Device complexity
If flexible tubing is used for fluid transfer, then the device structure remains simple, but assembly complexity increases and human errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid conduits are integrated into the support plate as a single molded piece, eliminating the need for separate flexible tubing components and their manual assembly. This reduces assembly complexity while maintaining device functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The conduits are pre-integrated into the support plate during manufacturing, with connection points and routing predetermined. This preliminary integration eliminates the need for manual tube assembly and reduces the risk of assembly errors.
3Area of stationary object
If the support plate area is compact to fit reagent bottles and purification cartridges, then space is optimized, but fluidic connection means have insufficient space causing tubing dislodgement and bending
Solution Approach 1:
The conduits are integrated into the support plate structure itself, eliminating the need for separate flexible tubing that requires space for routing and connection. This allows compact plate design while maintaining ease of operation through the rigid integrated fluid paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional routing of conduits within the support plate thickness, allowing fluid paths to be arranged in multiple layers and directions. This enables compact two-dimensional footprint while maintaining adequate space for all fluidic connections without dislodgement or bending.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual assembly of flexible tubes is required, then customization is possible, but assembly time increases and errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The support plate and fluid conduits are manufactured as a single integrated component, eliminating the manual assembly step entirely. Customization is achieved through different disposable module designs rather than manual tube configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid conduits are pre-configured and integrated into the support plate during manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for manual assembly while maintaining the ability to customize through different pre-designed disposable module configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a disposable module (100) for use in a device (300) for synthesizing radiopharmaceutical products starting from chemical reactants, said disposable module (100) comprising: a support plate (101) comprising rigid connection means (114) to at least one flask of chemical reactants (102, 103, 104, 105) in solution in a solvent, and a reactor (106); interface means (115) for interfacing with a fixed module of said synthesis device (300), in contact with or integrated into said support plate (101), said interface means comprising at least one valve (V1-V8) and/or at least one fluid inlet (E1, E2) and/or at least one fluid outlet (O1, O2, O3); at least one duct (1-20) connected to said at least one valve (V1-V8) or to said at least one fluid inlet (E1, E2) or to said at least one fluid outlet (O1, O2, O3), characterized in that at least one of said ducts (1-20) is integrated into the body of the disposable module (100).