Multi-Port Aseptic Connector for Compact Sterile Tubing Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aseptic connector systems require multiple apparatuses for connecting numerous equipment to a process container, are cumbersome to handle, and lack versatility in accommodating various tubing sizes and multiple fluid connections.
Innovation Solution
A modular aseptic connector with multiple ports on each connection unit allows for simultaneous connection of multiple equipment and tubing sizes, using sealed films and gaskets for aseptic sealing, and compressible foam layers for ease of use and compact handling, with optional features like valves and RFID tags for monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate apparatuses are used to connect numerous equipment to a process container, then aseptic connection is achieved, but the system becomes cumbersome to handle and requires more connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate connection apparatuses into a single integrated connector that can simultaneously connect multiple equipment (e.g., bioreactors, chromatography columns, filters) to a process container. This multi-port connector maintains aseptic connection reliability while dramatically simplifying handling by reducing the number of separate connectors from multiple individual pieces to one unified device.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with multiple ports and configurable connection capabilities that allow it to serve multiple functions - connecting different types of equipment (bioreactors, chromatography columns, filters, storage tanks) to a process container simultaneously. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple specialized connectors for different equipment types.
2Reliability
If traditional connector systems are used, then connections are established, but the setup is not compact and requires more space
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple connection functions into a single compact connector body with multiple ports, the patent achieves a space-efficient design that maintains stable aseptic connections. The connector consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate apparatuses dispersed throughout the system into one centralized component, significantly reducing the overall system volume and improving compactness.
3Reliability
If specialized tube welding machines are used for sterile connections, then thermoplastic tubing can be welded sterily, but the equipment is large, heavy, lacks versatility, and is expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate various tube sizes and types through its multiple ports and adaptable connection mechanisms. Rather than requiring specialized welding machines for different tubing configurations, this single connector design provides versatile connection capability across different equipment types and tube dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical tube welding system with a simpler connector-based mechanical connection system. Instead of using heat and pressure to weld tubes in a controlled environment, the design uses pre-formed connector components with ports and sealing elements that mechanically interface with tubing and equipment, eliminating the need for welding machinery.
4Reliability
If controlled environments like clean rooms are used for manufacturing connections, then aseptic connections are ensured, but the process is time consuming, difficult and costly to validate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector components are pre-designed and pre-sterilized as discrete components before final assembly. The connector body, ports, and sealing elements are manufactured and sterilized independently, then assembled in a controlled manner. This preliminary preparation of components allows for efficient assembly without requiring extended clean room validation processes for the entire connection system.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into separate sterilizable components (connector body, ports, seals, tubing) that can be independently sterilized and validated. This segmentation allows each component to be processed through sterilization cycles separately, simplifying validation compared to validating an entire integrated connection system as a single unit, thereby reducing time and cost.
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
Reduces the number of connectors needed, simplifies handling, and enables efficient, compact setup of complex sterile systems for biotechnology applications, maintaining asepsis without bioburden-controlled environments.
Implementation Method 1
a compressible foam layer arranged around each gasket which foam layer is adapted to be compressed around each gasket when two connection units are mated
Implementation Method 2
a resilient, deformable support card fixed to the sterile barrier having an outer face disposed about the terminal end of the conduit having an adhesive perimeter covered by a release paper
Data Source
AI summary
Aseptic connectors are described. An aseptic connector includes a first connection unit and a second connection unit provided with at least one first and second openings orientated to substantially coincide when said first and second connection units are connected to each other. The first and second openings are sealed by at least one film, so that the contact between the film and each connection unit is aseptic. The at least one film is adapted to be mated with a corresponding film on the other connection unit; and the mated films are adapted to be pulled out together two and two after mating such that corresponding first and second openings are mated aseptically.