Modular Kenzan Support for Large 3D Cell Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing large-size cellular structures require modifications to the bioprinter, which are burdensome and costly, limiting the ability to easily increase the size of cellular constructs.
Innovation Solution
The development of modularized Kenzan-shaped supports with needle-shaped parts arranged in a specific configuration, allowing for the stacking and culturing of cell aggregates to create large-size three-dimensional structures, and a culture system with optimized culture solution supply pipes to facilitate nutrient delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the area for placing needle-shaped parts is increased to print larger cellular structures, then the size of cellular structure is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase due to modifications required in the bioprinter
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the support into multiple modular units, each capable of independently holding cell aggregates. These modular units can be combined to create supports of various sizes, allowing the cellular structure to be built up incrementally without requiring modifications to the bioprinter. Each module functions independently but can be assembled together to achieve the desired overall size.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-plane support structure to a multi-layer three-dimensional arrangement of modular units. By stacking multiple layers of modular supports, the system achieves vertical expansion and creates three-dimensional cellular structures without increasing the footprint area or requiring bioprinter modifications.
2Volume of moving object
If the number of needle-shaped parts is increased to print larger cellular structures, then the size of cellular structure is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support is segmented into standardized modular units with identical needle-shaped part configurations. This standardization simplifies manufacturing, as each module can be produced using the same process and then assembled together. The modular design reduces manufacturing complexity compared to creating a single large support with proportionally more needle-shaped parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular units are designed with universal interfaces and standardized needle arrangements that allow them to function in multiple positions and configurations. Each module can be used in various locations within the larger structure, providing versatility while maintaining consistent manufacturing procedures. This universality reduces the need for custom manufacturing for different positions.
3Area of stationary object
If the outermost needle-shaped part is positioned closer to the edge of the substrate, then the utilization of substrate area is improved, but the stability of the support structure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple modular units, each with its own needle-shaped parts and substrate area. By segmenting the overall support into these discrete modules, the design can optimize the needle positioning within each module while maintaining stability. Each module's stability is independent, allowing for optimized edge positioning without compromising the overall structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A culture system that comprises: a support for stacking cell aggregates, said support being provided with needle-shaped parts that are arranged on a substrate like a kenzan (flower frog needles), in which the outermost needle-shaped parts on the substrate are arranged so that the distance from the needle-shaped parts to the outer edge of the substrate is shorter than the distance between adjacent needle-shaped parts; a culture tank for housing a culture unit in which cell aggregates are stacked on the support; a liquid culture medium container; and a plurality of liquid culture medium supply pipes that supply a liquid culture medium from the liquid culture medium container to the culture unit, wherein each of the plurality of liquid culture medium supply pipes is positioned between the needle-shaped part.