Interchangeable Interface Inserts for Sealed Transfer Ports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transfer ports are limited in their ability to accommodate various beta assemblies due to fixed mounting interfaces, restricting the types of containers or conduits that can be used for material transfer between ambient and isolated environments without contamination.
Innovation Solution
A customizable transfer port design featuring interchangeable interface inserts with different geometric mating structures, allowing for the use of multiple types of mounting assemblies by replacing interface inserts to match specific docking features, thereby enabling flexible and sealable mounting of various containers or conduits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed mounting interface is used on the transfer port, then the sealing reliability is maintained, but the adaptability to different beta assemblies is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting interface is divided into two separate components: a fixed port body and an interchangeable interface insert. The interface insert can be removed and replaced with different inserts to accommodate various beta assembly types, while the port body remains stationary and sealed.
Solution Approach 2:
The port body is designed with a universal receptacle that can accept multiple types of interface inserts, each configured for a specific beta assembly type. This allows a single transfer port to serve multiple functions and accommodate different container configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the transfer port infrastructure is made customizable to accommodate various containers, then the versatility increases, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The customizable interface is achieved by manufacturing separate, standardized interface inserts that can be produced independently using standard manufacturing processes. Each insert is designed for a specific container type but all inserts use the same mounting interface on the port body, simplifying overall manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
Different interface inserts are created by varying geometric parameters such as threading patterns, flange configurations, or connection geometries, while maintaining the same basic structure and mounting interface. This allows customization through parameter variation rather than complete redesign.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of interface inserts are used to accommodate different beta assemblies, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
All interface inserts use a universal mounting interface with the port body, featuring standardized fastening mechanisms and sealing surfaces. This universal design reduces the complexity increase by providing a common interface architecture that accommodates multiple insert types without requiring multiple different mounting systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A transfer port system is described herein having a port ring configured for placement in a barrier wall, where the port ring defines a port opening and an interface insert receptacle. The interface insert receptacle is configured to (1) interchangeably receive and (2) releasably fasten to each of a first interface insert and a second interface insert. The first interface insert defines a first set of mating features and the second interface insert defines a second set of mating features that are configured to form a seal with different mounting assemblies than the first mating features. The first set of mating features has a first geometry that is different than a second geometry of the second set of mating features.