Multilayer Flow Path Cassette for Flexible Cell Culture Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cell culturing systems face challenges in assembling complex circuits with multiple bags connected by flow paths, leading to increased size, complicated piping, and restricted connector arrangements due to limited flow path layout flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A flow path cassette design featuring two superimposed resin sheets with integrated frames that support cassette main bodies, allowing flow paths to straddle between layers, enhancing layout freedom and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If flow paths are formed between a pair of superimposed resin sheets in a single layer, then the structure is simple to manufacture, but the layout freedom of flow paths is limited and the size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-layer flow path structure to a multi-layer structure with first and second cassette main bodies stacked vertically. Flow paths can now extend in the vertical dimension between layers, enabling complex routing without increasing the horizontal footprint. This dimensional change resolves the contradiction by providing layout freedom while maintaining compact size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds the first cassette main body containing flow paths within the vertical space of the second cassette main body. The flow paths are nested between the two layers, with connectors positioned on opposite sides to allow external access. This nesting approach enables complex flow path arrangements without increasing the overall device footprint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bags are connected by a complex circuit of flow paths, then the cell culturing system is complete, but assembly time increases and assembly errors are more likely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple flow paths, connectors, and cassette main bodies into a single pre-assembled flow path cassette unit. The first and second cassette main bodies are manufactured and connected as one integrated component, which is then installed as a single unit into the cell culturing device. This merging of components reduces assembly time and minimizes the risk of assembly errors while maintaining complete system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex flow path circuit is pre-assembled and integrated into the flow path cassette before installation into the cell culturing device. Connectors are pre-positioned and flow paths are pre-configured during manufacturing, allowing the operator to simply install the complete unit without performing complex assembly operations. This preliminary action eliminates time-consuming assembly steps and reduces error potential.
3Device complexity
If flow paths are arranged in a single layer, then the structure is simple, but the size of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by stacking the first and second cassette main bodies one above the other. Flow paths that would require long horizontal routes in a single layer are instead routed vertically between layers, significantly reducing the horizontal footprint of the device while maintaining all necessary flow path connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs thin resin sheets to form the cassette main bodies and flow path structures. By using thin-film construction, the device achieves complex three-dimensional flow path arrangements within a compact volume, effectively reducing the overall device size while maintaining structural integrity and flow path functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A flow path cassette, a cell culturing kit, and a cell culturing system are provided, which are capable of increasing a degree of freedom in the layout of the flow paths. A flow path cassette, in which flow paths are aggregated, is equipped with a first cassette main body in which flow paths are formed between resin sheets and a second cassette main body in which flow paths are formed between resin sheets, and a frame in which these elements are accommodated. In the frame, the first cassette main body is accommodated in a first accommodation space formed in a first direction, and the second cassette main body is accommodated in a second accommodation space formed in a second direction on an opposite side from the first direction.