Multi-connector port for bioreactors with sterile air purging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated solutions for bioreactor systems are limited by the need for sterile environments, are not flexible, and result in dead volumes and contamination due to lack of standardized connections, restricting their use in various bioreactors and vessels.
Innovation Solution
A multi-connector port with an air connection for sterile air and self-closing diaphragms allows for automated, contamination-free filling and withdrawal of materials from bioreactors in non-sterile environments, using a system that decouples the addition or withdrawal point from the reactor, preventing dead volumes through air purging and supporting flexible use with various bioreactors and vessels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated solutions are used in bioreactor systems, then productivity is improved, but the need for sterile environments and specialized equipment increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-connector port serves as an intermediary component between the bioreactor and the external automated liquid-handling device. It provides a standardized interface that enables automated operations without requiring the entire system to be sterile, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into a sterile zone (bioreactor) and a non-sterile zone (external handling system), connected through the multi-connector port. This segmentation allows automated operations in a non-sterile environment while maintaining bioreactor sterility, reducing the overall device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If standardized connections are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but the need for additional components increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-connector port is designed with universal adaptability to connect with various bioreactor types and automated liquid-handling devices. It provides multiple functions including sterile barrier, air purging capability, and standardized mechanical connection, reducing the need for additional specialized components
3Reliability
If dead volumes are eliminated through air purging, then purity is improved, but the additional processing step increases time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The air purging function is integrated into the multi-connector port design, allowing dead volumes to be eliminated through a simple air blow-through operation. This preliminary action prevents contamination before sample collection or media addition, ensuring purity without requiring complex additional processing steps
4Reliability
If self-closing diaphragms are used for access closure, then reliability is improved, but the complexity of the connecting piece increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-closing diaphragm automatically closes after being pierced by a needle or probe, providing reliable closure without requiring additional actuation mechanisms. This self-service feature maintains reliability while minimizing the complexity of the connecting piece structure
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
Enables flexible, contamination-free operations in non-sterile environments, minimizing dead volumes and allowing for automated, time-controlled media supply, sample collection, and processing across a range of bioreactors and vessels without the need for sterile workstations.
Implementation Method 1
the access comprises a self-closing diaphragm
Implementation Method 2
the multi-connector port can be purged via a connection for sterile air, such that liquid remaining in the connecting piece of the multi-connector port or in the line can be conveyed into the reactor or the vessel
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-connector port provides an air connection for sterile air, at least one access arranged on a connecting piece, and at least one line arranged on the connecting piece. The access comprises a self-closing diaphragm.