Automated Cell Separation via Magnetic Field and Spinning Membrane
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for processing biological fluids, such as blood, face challenges in efficiently separating target cells from other cells, particularly in achieving precise and automated separation with minimal operator intervention.
Innovation Solution
A cell processing system comprising a first processor with a separator to divide biological fluid into streams, a magnetic separator to select target cells associated with magnetic particles, and a pass-through container with a waste container, utilizing pumps and a controller to manage fluid pathways and separation processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual cell separation methods are used, then operator flexibility is maintained, but separation precision and automation level deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical separation operations with an automated magnetic separation system. The magnetic separator automatically captures target cells using magnetic particles, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention while achieving precise and consistent separation results. This substitution of manual mechanical operations with an automated magnetic field-based system resolves the contradiction between separation precision and automation level.
2Productivity
If complex separation systems are used, then separation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separation functions into a single integrated magnetic separation device. The magnetic separator integrates cell capture, washing, and separation operations that would traditionally require multiple separate devices. By merging these functions into one system, the patent improves separation efficiency while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic separation system is designed with multi-functionality, capable of separating different types of target cells using magnetic particles with varying magnetic properties. The system can handle various cell types and biological fluids through a single platform, improving productivity without proportionally increasing system complexity.
3Reliability
If multiple separation devices are used in sequence, then separation completeness is improved, but device complexity and operation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple separation stages into a single magnetic separation device. The system performs initial capture, washing, and final separation operations within one integrated platform, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices connected in sequence. This integration maintains separation completeness while reducing overall system complexity and operational difficulty.
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 efficient and automated separation of target cells from other cells, reducing manual intervention and improving the precision of cell processing, facilitating the isolation of specific cell types like white blood cells and platelets.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic separator configured to select target cells, the target cells being associated with magnetic particles
Data Source
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AI summary
A cell processing system includes a first processor connectable to a source container filled with a biological fluid, a second processor, and a controller coupled to the processors. The first processor includes a separator configured to separate the biological fluid into at least two streams of material using a spinning membrane, and a first container configured to receive one of the streams. The second processor includes a magnetic separator configured to select target cells, the target cells being associated with magnetic particles, a second, pass-through container associated with the magnetic separator, the second container connected at a first end to the first container, and a third container connected to a second end of the pass-through container. One of the processors includes at least one pump configured to transfer material between the separator and the first container, and between the first container and the second container.