Multi-channel peristaltic pump with independent motor control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional peristaltic pumps are inefficient and cluttered when multiple channels are required, making it time-consuming and complex to connect and disconnect fluid conduits in bioreactors, which also requires maintaining a sterile environment.
Innovation Solution
A peristaltic pump system with multiple pumping rollers on a single common shaft, connected indirectly to separate motors via belts or gears, allowing for independent control of multiple channels within a compact assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional peristaltic pumps are used for multiple channels, then each channel requires a separate pump, but this leads to workspace clutter and installation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple peristaltic pump channels are merged into a single integrated pump head assembly, where multiple rollers operate on separate tubes simultaneously. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple separate pump units, reducing workspace clutter and simplifying installation while maintaining multi-channel pumping capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump system is designed with universal multi-functionality by incorporating multiple independently controllable channels within a single pump unit. Each channel can handle different fluid types and flow rates, allowing one pump to perform the work of multiple traditional pumps, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate peristaltic pumps are used, then each channel is independently controllable, but this increases space requirements and clutter
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple pump channels are combined in a single compact pump head where each channel maintains its own roller mechanism and tube path. This spatial merging allows independent control of each channel while occupying minimal workspace, eliminating the need for multiple dispersed pump units.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump design utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement within the pump head, stacking multiple roller mechanisms vertically or radially around a central axis. This dimensional organization allows multiple channels to coexist in a compact footprint while maintaining independent operation, effectively reducing the horizontal workspace area required.
3Productivity
If traditional pump systems are used, then fluid delivery can be achieved, but connection and disconnection of fluid conduits is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is pre-configured with multiple tube receptacles and alignment features that guide fluid conduits into the correct positions before pumping begins. This preliminary arrangement of connection points and tube routing reduces the time required for operators to connect and disconnect fluid conduits during setup and changeover.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump system employs modular tube receptacles and segmented connection points for each channel, allowing individual tubes to be quickly connected or disconnected without affecting other channels. This segmentation of connection interfaces enables rapid setup and reconfiguration, significantly reducing installation time compared to integrated connection systems.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tubes are installed in traditional pump systems, then multi-channel pumping is achieved, but this results in workspace clutter and confusion
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tubes are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration within the pump head, with each tube occupying a distinct spatial position and angle. This dimensional separation provides clear visual and physical distinction between channels, eliminating confusion while maintaining multi-channel capability. Tubes may be arranged radially, vertically, or in stacked configurations for easy identification.
Solution Approach 2:
Each tube receptacle and roller assembly is designed with unique local characteristics such as different tube diameters, wall thicknesses, or material properties tailored to specific fluid requirements. This local differentiation allows operators to easily identify and operate each channel based on its specific characteristics, improving operational clarity in multi-channel systems.
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 system enables efficient, sterile, and controllable delivery of multiple fluids to bioreactors, reducing installation complexity and space requirements while ensuring precise fluid management.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of tubes may include an elastomeric material deformed between the pump clip and the plurality of rollers of a respective wheel to cause a peristaltic pump action
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-channel pump device includes a common shaft supporting one or more wheels with the wheels each having a drive portion and a plurality of rollers disposed about a circumference of the wheel. Each roller of the plurality of rollers is configured to freely rotate about a rotation axis parallel with the common shaft. The multi-channel pump device includes a plurality of tubes extending substantially perpendicular to the common shaft and connecting between a source and a vessel and a pump clip securable to the support structure and configured to position the plurality of tubes between the pump clip and the plurality of wheels. The multi-channel pump device includes a plurality of motors, a motor of the plurality of motors configured to engage with a drive portion of a respective wheel of the plurality of wheels.