Modular Liquid Purification Flowpath for Compact Biomolecule Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatus for processing biomolecules, such as recombinant polypeptides and nucleic acids, are bulky, require extensive space, and lack interoperability and simplicity, necessitating complex operation and extensive training.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with multiple processing units arranged in series, each comprising an inlet, multiple inlet flow-controller, mixing means, and a device for impurity separation, allowing for a common flow path and simplified operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional apparatus designs are used for different unit operations, then each operation can be performed with dedicated equipment, but the apparatus becomes bulky and requires extensive floor space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single integrated apparatus that can perform multiple unit operations including chromatographic purification, viral inactivation, and ultrafiltration. The system uses a common flow path assembly with interchangeable cartridges that allow one piece of equipment to execute different processing functions, thereby reducing the floor space required compared to having separate dedicated equipment for each operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple processing functions into a single integrated system. The flow path assembly combines mixing means, separation devices, and control systems into one unified apparatus. By merging these previously separate operations into a single platform, the system reduces the overall space requirement while maintaining the capability to perform each individual operation.
2Reliability
If different apparatus designs are used for different unit operations, then each operation can be optimized independently, but the interoperability and control becomes inordinately complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to universally manage all unit operations through a single interface. The common flow path assembly uses standardized components and procedures that can be controlled through unified protocols, allowing independent optimization of each operation while maintaining simple interoperability through the standardized control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is segmented into modular cartridges that can be independently optimized for specific functions while being controlled through a unified system. Each cartridge (e.g., chromatography column, filtration device) can be independently selected and optimized, yet the common flow path and control system provide simplified integration, reducing overall control complexity.
3Reliability
If multiple types of apparatus are employed for different operations, then each operation can be performed with specialized equipment, but operator training requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus provides a universal platform where operators learn a single set of procedures and controls to perform all unit operations. The standardized interface and common flow path mean that operators are trained once on the system's operation rather than requiring separate training for each type of equipment, while still maintaining specialized processing capabilities through interchangeable cartridges.
4Ease of repair
If separate apparatus are used for each unit operation, then each operation can be independently maintained, but spare parts inventory becomes extensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple processing functions into a single apparatus with a common flow path assembly, reducing spare parts inventory. While cartridges can be independently replaced for maintenance, the core components (pumps, valves, control systems) are shared across all operations, eliminating the need to maintain separate inventories for each unit operation and reducing overall spare parts requirements.
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 apparatus reduces space requirements, simplifies operation, lowers the risk of operator error, and minimizes spare parts inventory while enabling multiple processing steps with ease.
Implementation Method 1
a multiple inlet flow-controller (4) comprising two or more variable flow inlet valves (4a) for providing at least two liquids in a desired ratio
Implementation Method 2
a mixing means (8)
Implementation Method 3
a device (12) for performing a processing operation which separates at least some of the impurities from the target substance
Implementation Method 4
a switchable bypass assembly (31) for causing liquids passing through the unit to either flow into the mixing means (8) or bypass the mixing means (8)
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for purifying a liquid comprising a target substance comprising at least two units arranged in series such that the feed stream of the second and any subsequent units comprises the product stream from a downstream unit, wherein each unit comprises specified components (i) to (vi), including a a switchable bypass assembly. Also claimed are the units and a flowpath assembly. The units may be essentially the same except for a device they contain, leading to advantages in terms of simplicity, cost and ease of operation, lower risk of operator error, easier maintenance and lower inventory of spare parts.