Membrane Tab Structure for Embedded Data Storage and Cleanability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing membrane technologies for valves and pumps in sterile process engineering face challenges in integrating data storage devices while maintaining high cleanability and hygiene standards, and efficient recycling of components, as conventional methods often require complex integration and separation of electronic and elastomeric components.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layer membrane with a protruding tab designed to accommodate a data storage component, allowing for easy integration and separation, with features like recesses, notches, and adhesive connections to ensure secure embedding and easy recycling, and the option to embed data memory in elastomeric material for a hermetic connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If data storage devices are integrated into the membrane, then data collection and transmission capabilities are improved, but the complexity of manufacturing and assembly increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata collection capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The membrane is divided into multiple layers (first membrane layer, second membrane layer) with the data storage device integrated between them. This segmentation allows the electronic component to be inserted into a predetermined recess without complicating the overall manufacturing process, as each layer can be produced separately and then assembled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A recess is预先 formed in the membrane structure at the specific location where the data storage device needs to be integrated. This preliminary preparation of the recess allows for easy insertion of the electronic component during assembly, reducing manufacturing complexity while enabling data storage functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If electronic components are integrated into the elastomeric membrane, then monitoring capabilities are improved, but cleanability and hygiene standards deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemonitoring capabilityVSAvoidcleanability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The membrane structure is segmented into multiple layers with the electronic component positioned between them. This allows the membrane material to completely surround the electronic component, creating a sealed configuration that maintains sterile barriers while enabling monitoring capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic component is nested within the membrane structure, with the membrane material forming an enclosing layer around it. This nesting approach allows the electronic device to be integrated into the membrane while maintaining the integrity of the sterile barrier, as the membrane material itself serves as the protective and sealant layer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of repair

If data storage devices are embedded in the membrane, then individual component recycling is improved, but the separation of electronic and elastomeric components becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent recyclabilityVSAvoidseparation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The membrane is constructed with distinct layers (first membrane layer, second membrane layer) with the data storage device positioned between them. This segmented structure allows for systematic disassembly and separation of components, facilitating recycling by enabling the electronic component to be extracted while preserving the membrane layers for potential reuse or recycling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3604874B1Membrane with electronic component
Publication Date: 2021.02.17 SISTO ARMATUREN
  • EP3604874B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3604874B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2c

AI summary

Device for diagnosing a diaphragm (1) of a diaphragm valve or a diaphragm pump comprising a first component consisting of a diaphragm provided in a housing, wherein a part (2) of the diaphragm protrudes from the housing, and a second component consisting of a data storage device (5), wherein the data storage device is embedded in the protruding part of the diaphragm.