Magnetic Stirring Element for Sterile Biopharmaceutical Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mixing devices face challenges in achieving uniform mixing across various container sizes, particularly in larger containers, and require modifications that compromise sterility and cost-effectiveness when using disposable or reusable containers.
Innovation Solution
A mixing device with a rotatable stirring element featuring non-permanently magnetized elements and contactless magnetic bearing systems, driven by externally induced reluctance forces, which allows for reliable mixing without penetrating the container wall, maintaining sterility and cost-effectiveness across both disposable and reusable containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the stirring element protrudes further into the container to achieve uniform mixing in larger containers, then mixing uniformity is improved, but the risk of contamination increases and sterility is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical penetration through the container wall with a magnetic field-based drive system. External magnets positioned against the container wall induce rotational motion in the stirring element through magnetic coupling, eliminating the need for mechanical penetrations that would compromise sterility. This allows the stirring element to extend fully into the container for uniform mixing while maintaining container integrity and sterile conditions.
2Reliability
If permanent magnets or electrical windings are used for driving the stirring element, then reliable rotation is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the drive system and the stirring element. External magnets create a magnetic field that couples with the stirring element through the non-magnetic container wall, enabling reliable rotation without direct mechanical or electrical connections. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall system by eliminating complex drive mechanisms while maintaining reliable stirring element rotation.
3Strength
If the stirring element is designed for reusable containers with rigid walls, then secure mounting is achieved, but adaptability to disposable flexible containers is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal mounting and drive system that functions with both rigid and flexible container walls. The magnetic field-based drive mechanism and external magnet positioning system work effectively regardless of container wall rigidity, allowing the same stirring element design to be used with both reusable rigid containers and disposable flexible containers, thereby achieving multi-functionality and broad adaptability.
4Power
If mechanical penetration through the container wall is used for driving the stirring element, then direct drive is achieved, but sterile conditions cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical penetration with magnetic field coupling for driving the stirring element. External magnets positioned against the container wall create a magnetic field that induces rotation in the stirring element through the container wall without mechanical penetration. This maintains sterile conditions by keeping the drive system external to the sterile container interior while still achieving effective power transmission for reliable stirring.
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
The solution ensures reliable and cost-effective mixing in containers of all sizes, maintaining sterility and avoiding the need for permanent magnets or electrical windings, while allowing for high rotational speeds and secure mounting, suitable for both disposable and reusable biopharmaceutical applications.
Implementation Method 1
the first bearing element comprises at least one non-permanently magnetized element in order to be able to be set in rotation by externally induced reluctance forces
Implementation Method 2
the second bearing element is mounted in a contactless manner by externally induced magnetic forces
Data Source
AI summary
A mixing device having a stirring element can include: a container for receiving fluids and/or solids; and at least one rotatable stirring element for mixing the fluids and/or solids; wherein the stirring element comprises a first bearing element and a second bearing element which are arranged at or near opposite ends of the stirring element; wherein the first bearing element is mounted on a first face of the container and the second bearing element is mounted on an opposite second face of the container; wherein the first bearing element comprises at least one non-permanently magnetized element such that it can be moved in rotation by externally induced reluctance forces, and wherein the second bearing element is mounted in a contactless manner by externally induced magnetic forces.