Modular Cell Processing System for Stem Viability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tissue processing methods for stem cell extraction are cumbersome, time-consuming, and result in low cell viability, often requiring manual handling and sequential processing steps that can damage cells.
Innovation Solution
A modular tissue processing system that integrates mechanical and enzymatic methods within a single device, allowing simultaneous performance of multiple processing steps, including tissue washing, centrifugation, and enzymatic treatment, with modules that can be connected based on cell data for automated and efficient processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling and sequential processing steps are used for stem cell extraction, then processing can be performed with simple equipment, but processing time increases and cell viability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the tissue processing into multiple modular components (tissue receipt module, processing module, collection module) that can be connected in sequence. Each module performs a specific function (washing, enzymatic treatment, centrifugation) allowing simultaneous operation of multiple modules to process different tissue samples in parallel, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining cell viability through specialized optimized processing at each stage
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous processing by having modules operate in an integrated workflow where tissue flows continuously from receipt through processing to collection. Multiple processing steps (washing, enzymatic digestion, centrifugation) are performed in continuous sequence without manual intervention between steps, reducing processing time and maintaining cell viability by eliminating exposure to external environment
2Ease of manufacture
If mechanical and enzymatic processing methods are used, then tissue can be effectively processed, but cell damage increases and processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary washing of the tissue sample in a dedicated washing module before enzymatic treatment. This preliminary action removes extraneous material and prepares the tissue for more efficient enzymatic processing, reducing the time required for subsequent enzymatic digestion while maintaining effective tissue processing
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses controlled mechanical agitation in the processing module that dynamically adjusts mixing intensity. The tissue is subjected to gentle mechanical breakdown followed by enzymatic treatment, with the mechanical action being optimized to be sufficient for tissue disruption but controlled to minimize cell damage. This dynamic approach allows effective processing while reducing overall processing time compared to purely enzymatic methods
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple processing steps are performed sequentially, then thorough tissue processing is achieved, but cell viability decreases due to mechanical damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the processing steps into separate dedicated modules: a washing module for initial cleaning, a processing module for enzymatic treatment and mechanical agitation, and a collection module for final separation. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized for its specific function with controlled parameters, achieving thorough processing while minimizing cumulative mechanical damage that would occur in a single integrated system
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses buffered solutions as intermediaries between processing steps. The washing module uses buffer to gently rinse tissue, and the processing module uses enzymatic buffers that provide a protective chemical environment. These intermediary buffers minimize direct mechanical stress on cells during transitions between processing stages, maintaining cell viability while achieving thorough processing
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 modular system significantly reduces processing time, enhances cell quality by minimizing mechanical damage, and enables combination with therapies like PRP and hyaluronic acid, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of stem cell extraction and application.
Implementation Method 1
The automated apparatus includes a cell separator
Implementation Method 2
various sources add enzymes, such as conventional collagenases, to free the fat extract from the fat cells and extracellular matrix
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a system and method for modular cell processing. The invention discloses a plurality of modules that can be connected to each other generate an optimized cell processing. The connection of the two modules can comprise an exchange of volume and/or an exchange of data.