Multi-Bag Freezing Container With Compression Layer Heat Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Using individual containers for each small bag in processes like bioprocesses is expensive and requires extensive handling, and existing freezing/thawing methods are inefficient and inconsistent.
Innovation Solution
A container design that allows multiple bags to be placed within a single larger container, utilizing a compression layer to press bags against thermally conductive surfaces, enhancing thermal conductivity and consistency of freezing/thawing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple bags are placed within a single larger container, then handling is simplified and container costs are reduced, but the freezing or thawing speed and consistency may be compromised without proper thermal contact
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into multiple compartments or sections, each capable of holding individual bags. This segmentation allows multiple bags to be processed simultaneously in one container while maintaining organized placement and thermal contact with conductive surfaces in each compartment.
Solution Approach 2:
Thermally conductive surfaces are introduced as intermediaries between the bags and the container structure. These surfaces act as heat transfer mediators, ensuring that multiple bags placed within the container can efficiently exchange heat with the freezing or thawing environment, thus maintaining high processing speed despite the multi-bag configuration.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple bags are placed within a single larger container, then container costs are reduced, but the freezing or thawing consistency may be compromised without proper thermal contact
Solution Approach 1:
Each compartment or section of the container is equipped with its own thermally conductive surface, providing localized optimal thermal contact for each bag. This ensures that each bag receives consistent and appropriate heat transfer, maintaining uniform freezing or thawing results across all bags processed simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermally conductive surfaces serve as intermediaries that standardize the heat transfer interface between the container and each bag. This mediation ensures consistent thermal contact and uniform heat distribution across all bags, achieving precise and repeatable freezing or thawing results.
3Manufacturing precision
If individual containers are used for each small bag, then freezing or thawing consistency is maintained, but handling complexity and container costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual container functions are merged into a single multi-compartment container. Each compartment maintains the thermal contact capabilities of an individual container, but all compartments work together in one unified structure, reducing the total number of containers needed and simplifying handling while preserving consistency.
4Productivity
If thermally conductive surfaces are used to press bags, then freezing or thawing speed is improved, but additional structural components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The thermally conductive surfaces serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the bags, ensure proper thermal contact for efficient heat transfer, and contribute to the overall container strength. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and minimizes overall structural complexity.
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
Simplifies handling, reduces container costs, and improves the speed and consistency of freezing/thawing processes while maintaining compatibility with existing infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
pressing bags against thermally conductive surfaces, the freezing or thawing speeds can be improved and also made more consistent. The compression layer can also provide a path for thermal conductivity to an interior of the container
Data Source
AI summary
Containers for a plurality of bags, such as bioprocess bags, include a first container segment configured to directly contact a first plurality of bags arranged in a first layer and a second container segment configured to be attached to the first container segment. The second container segment is configured to contact a second plurality of bags arranged in a second layer. The container includes a compression layer configured to be positioned between the first plurality of bags and the second plurality of bags such that the first plurality of bags are pressed against the first container segment and the second plurality of bags are pressed against the second container segment when the first container segment is attached to the second container segment.