Multi-Use Probe Holder for Sterile Bioreactor Sensor Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bioprocessing systems face challenges in continuously monitoring and controlling biological fluids due to the complexity of inline flow processes, slow response times, and the risk of contamination during sampling, which can lead to inaccurate data and operational disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A probe holder that allows for the secure attachment and sterilization of sensors within bioreactors, enabling in situ measurements by supporting the sensor in an open position for autoclaving and facilitating sterile connections, ensuring reliable and repeatable data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual examination of cell cultures is conducted frequently, then cell health monitoring accuracy is improved, but time consumption and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual examination with automated imaging and analysis systems. Cameras capture images of cell cultures, and image processing algorithms automatically analyze cell morphology, confluency, and health parameters, eliminating the need for researchers to manually examine cultures under microscopes at frequent intervals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary automated monitoring system that includes imaging devices, image processing software, and data analysis algorithms. This intermediary system acts as a mediator between the cell cultures and researchers, providing automated measurements and alerts without requiring direct human intervention at frequent intervals.
2Measurement precision
If automated cell culture monitoring systems are implemented, then monitoring accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional monitoring system that can perform multiple measurements using the same hardware platform. The imaging system can capture images for multiple purposes (cell morphology, confluency, contamination detection), and the system can monitor multiple bioreactor vessels simultaneously, reducing overall system complexity compared to dedicated specialized devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses standard imaging components and processing algorithms that can be replicated and adapted from existing technologies. By using commercially available cameras, lighting systems, and image processing software, the system avoids the need for custom-built complex instrumentation, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining monitoring accuracy.
3Speed
If sensors are placed inline in continuous flow processes, then measurement speed is improved, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable bioreactor vessels and consumable components that are pre-sterilized and single-use. This eliminates the need for complex sterilization of inline sensors, as each vessel is disposed of after a single use, preventing cross-contamination between batches while maintaining continuous processing speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the sensing function from the continuous flow path by using imaging-based monitoring that observes cultures through transparent bioreactor walls. This non-invasive approach allows measurements to be taken without inserting sensors into the sterile flow path, thereby maintaining measurement speed while eliminating contamination risks associated with inline sensor placement.
Data Source
AI summary
Probe holder for a bioreactor or other container or vessel, functioning as a base platform or stand to hold a sensor or probe, such as a Raman probe, in its an open position to be sterilized as part of an assembly including the sensor attached to a housing or container with an aseptic connector. The holder aids the user in positioning the sensor or probe at least partially within or in fluid communication with the interior of the bioreactor or vessel and holding and/or locking it in position during the use of the sensor or probe.