Macroencapsulation Membrane Slack for Controlled Cell Filling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for manufacturing implantable therapeutic devices, such as macroencapsulation devices for treating metabolic disorders, lack precision and control in forming specific structural features and are difficult to fill with biological entities like cell populations without causing excessive cell death or agglomeration.
Innovation Solution
A method of forming macroencapsulation devices by deforming membranes to fit within a frame with controlled slack, allowing for adjustable membrane relaxation to achieve desired geometrical properties and controlled filling of cells, using supports and frames to manage membrane tension and volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If membranes are filled with cells after device formation, then device filling is achieved, but excessive cell death and agglomeration occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-forming the macroencapsulation device with defined geometrical properties and membrane slack before cell loading. The device is prepared with controlled membrane deformation and frame attachment in advance, creating optimal conditions for subsequent cell filling that prevent cell death and agglomeration during the filling process.
2Stability of the object's composition
If membranes are rigidly fixed to frame, then structural stability is achieved, but manufacturing precision of geometrical features is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using a frame that provides stable structural support while allowing controlled membrane deformation. The frame is attached to the membrane in a manner that maintains structural integrity during operation but permits precise geometrical features to be formed through controlled membrane slack and deformation during manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the degree of membrane deformation and slack as key parameters. By adjusting membrane slack and deformation levels, the device achieves both structural stability from the frame and precise geometrical features from the deformed membrane configuration.
3Volume of stationary object
If membrane surface area is made larger than frame area, then device volume is increased, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the membrane formation process from the frame attachment process. The membrane is first formed with desired surface area and deformation, then the frame is attached to provide structural support. This segmentation allows independent optimization of volume (through membrane area) and simplifies manufacturing by avoiding the need to simultaneously accommodate both large membrane area and precise frame fit.
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 precise control over device dimensions and cell density, reducing cell death and agglomeration, while providing a simple and controllable method for producing devices with defined compartments.
Implementation Method 1
the first membrane and/or the second membrane is semipermeable
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to macroencapsulation devices and related methods of manufacture where the membranes of a device may be mounted to an associated frame in a relaxed, or slack, configuration prior to filling with a desired material.