Cell-Payload Delivery Cartridges With Integrated Input Reservoirs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for intracellular payload delivery lack spatial efficiency, durability, simplicity, and compatibility with laboratory equipment and robotics control systems, particularly due to the use of flexible tubing for connecting cartridges to input and output reservoirs.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an input reservoir within the cartridge itself, forming a cap device that attaches to a container, allowing for direct fluid communication with a constriction-containing element, and an output reservoir provided by the container, enhancing spatial efficiency and compatibility with existing lab devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If flexible tubing is used to connect cartridges to input and output reservoirs, then the system can be assembled with separate components, but the spatial efficiency and durability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The input reservoir is integrated directly into the cartridge body, eliminating the need for separate reservoir components and flexible tubing connections. This merging of components reduces the overall system volume and improves spatial efficiency while maintaining functional separation between input and output pathways
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is designed to fit inside the container (test tube) when attached, with the integrated input reservoir nested within the cartridge structure. This nested configuration allows compact arrangement of components within the limited space of the container, improving spatial efficiency
2Ease of manufacture
If flexible tubing is used for connecting cartridges, then assembly is simplified, but durability and reliability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the input reservoir into the cartridge body, the patent eliminates multiple connection points and flexible tubing interfaces that are prone to failure. The merged structure reduces the number of potential failure points while maintaining ease of assembly through the cap device design
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is designed as a disposable component that is replaced rather than maintained. This approach eliminates the need for durable, maintainable connections and allows the use of simpler, less durable materials and connection methods that would be acceptable in a single-use context
3Device complexity
If separate input and output reservoirs are used, then fluid pathways are clearly defined, but the system becomes less compatible with existing laboratory equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is designed with universal compatibility features, including a cap device that can attach to various container types (test tubes, culture tubes, centrifuge tubes) and an integrated input reservoir that can interface with different pressure sources. The clear fluid pathways are maintained through internal structure rather than external connections, enabling versatility across laboratory equipment
Data Source
AI summary
A device for facilitating delivery of a payload to cells of a cell suspension includes a container and a cartridge configured to connect to an opening of the container when in an assembled position with respect to the container. The cartridge includes an input reservoir configured to receive a cell suspension. The cartridge includes a receiving portion configured to receive a constriction-containing element, wherein the constriction-containing element includes a constriction configured to perturb membranes of cells of the cell suspension to facilitate delivery of a payload to the cells, wherein the receiving portion is fluidly connected to the input reservoir to allow flow of the cell suspension from the input reservoir to the receiving portion, and wherein the receiving portion is fluidly connected to a cartridge outlet port to allow flow of the cell suspension from the receiving portion into an interior cavity of the container.