Modular Flow Cells for Fluid Processing Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid processing systems face challenges in efficiently setting up and controlling fluid flow due to the complexity of tubing arrangements, particularly in accommodating various functional elements across different applications.
Innovation Solution
The integration of flow cells with a consistent cross-sectional fluid flow path and adaptable configurations within the tubing arrangement, allowing for the accommodation of diverse functional elements such as sensors and mixers, ensures unobstructed fluid flow and easy adaptation to different applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the tubing arrangement is designed to accommodate various functional elements for different applications, then the adaptability and versatility of the system is improved, but the device complexity and setup difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cell is designed as a universal component with a standardized body, inlet, outlet, and receptacle configuration that can accommodate multiple types of functional elements (sensors, mixers, filters, etc.) across different applications. This multi-functional design allows a single flow cell structure to serve various processing needs without requiring application-specific customizations, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The tubing arrangement is segmented into modular flow cells that can be independently configured and assembled. Each flow cell is a self-contained unit with its own receptacle for functional elements, allowing the system to be customized by selecting and combining different flow cells rather than redesigning the entire tubing arrangement. This modular segmentation enables versatility while keeping individual components simple
2Adaptability or versatility
If the chamber volume is increased to accommodate functional elements, then the adaptability is improved, but the fluid flow path cross-sectional area may be reduced causing flow obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cell design applies local quality by providing a larger chamber volume in the receptacle area for accommodating functional elements, while maintaining an adequate cross-sectional area in the fluid flow path channels. The receptacle chamber is specifically enlarged to provide accommodation space for various functional elements, whereas the inlet and outlet channels maintain their flow-critical dimensions. This localized differentiation allows adaptability improvement without compromising fluid flow performance
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functional elements are integrated into the flow cell, then the functionality and control capability are improved, but the ease of operation and setup efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cell is pre-configured with a standardized receptacle and mounting structure designed to readily accommodate various functional elements. The inlet and outlet connections are pre-positioned, and the receptacle is designed with appropriate mounting features that simplify the installation process. This preliminary preparation of the flow cell structure reduces the complexity and time required for setup and operation
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to fluid processing system comprising a fluid processing unit and a tubing arrangement providing fluid flow to and from said fluid processing unit, wherein said tubing arrangement comprises one or more flow cells. Said fluid processing unit is selected from a unit comprising a single use tangential flow filtration mobile skid and a unit comprising a device for chromatographic separation. Each one of said flow cells comprises a body having an inlet and an outlet and a fluid flow channel extending from the inlet to the outlet of the body, said body further comprising a receptacle comprising a chamber forming a part of the fluid flow channel of the body, said chamber comprising a first opening for connecting a functional element to the flow cell such that the functional element is in contact with or exposed to a fluid flow passing through the fluid flow channel. The flow cells further comprise a functional element, a first tubular connector arranged adjacent to the inlet of the body, a second tubular connector arranged adjacent to the outlet of the body. A fluid flow path of the flow cell extends from the first tubular connector through the inlet of the body, the body and its receptacle to the outlet of the body to the second tubular connector.