Parallel Centrifugal Processing System for Biological Fluid Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for processing and separating biological fluids are costly and inefficient, particularly in processing multiple cord blood units simultaneously, requiring multiple technicians and complex equipment setups.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic and automated cell processing platform utilizing centrifugation for separation based on density and size, with a centralized computer controlling multiple modules that can process up to six units in parallel, using a simplified disposable kit with flexible containers and remotely actuable valves for efficient fluid management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single processing chamber is used for biological fluid separation, then the system is simple to operate, but the processing capacity and productivity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the processing function into multiple independent processing chambers (at least two chambers) that can operate simultaneously. Each chamber is a self-contained unit with its own centrifugal separation capability, allowing parallel processing of different biological fluid samples, thereby increasing overall productivity without requiring a single complex integrated system
Solution Approach 2:
The processing chambers are designed with universal functionality to handle various types of biological fluids (whole blood, platelet-rich plasma, bone marrow, adipose tissue, culture media) through the same centrifugal separation mechanism. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain simplicity while processing diverse samples in parallel across multiple chambers
2Productivity
If multiple processing chambers are used in parallel, then the productivity increases, but the device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each processing chamber is equipped with an axially movable member (piston) that automatically controls the volume of the separation space based on the volume of biological fluid introduced. The system self-regulates the separation process without requiring manual adjustment for each chamber, reducing operational complexity even when multiple chambers are used in parallel
Solution Approach 2:
The system controls the volume of the separation space by axial movement of the movable member, which varies according to the volume of biological fluid introduced into each chamber. This dynamic parameter adjustment allows each chamber to be optimized for its specific sample volume automatically, simplifying operation across multiple parallel chambers
3Adaptability or versatility
If the separation space volume is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different fluid volumes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The processing chamber incorporates an axially movable member (piston) that dynamically adjusts the volume of the separation space. This movable member can shift its position along the axial direction to increase or decrease the separation volume based on the amount of biological fluid being processed, providing adaptability without requiring multiple fixed-volume chambers
Solution Approach 2:
The movable member acts as an intermediary element between the fixed chamber structure and the variable fluid volume. By introducing this movable component, the system achieves variable separation space volume while maintaining a relatively simple fixed chamber structure, balancing adaptability with structural simplicity
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 cost-effective, high-volume processing of biological fluids with reduced operating costs, allowing one technician to manage multiple units simultaneously, while maintaining high-quality processing and separation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The invention provides a dynamic and automated cell processing platform. Its cell separation capability is based on centrifugation allowing separation on density and size of blood particles.
Implementation Method 2
A hollow centrifuge processing chamber is rotatable about an axis of rotation by engagement of the processing chamber with a rotary drive unit.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for the processing and separation of biological fluids into components comprises an apparatus that cooperates with a disposable set, comprising a cabinet (100) for housing a hollow centrifugal processing chamber (20) of the disposable set. The cabinet comprises a plurality of side-by-side locations (110) for receiving a corresponding plurality of centrifugal processing chambers (20) in side-by-side spaced-apart relation. Each location comprises an individual drive means (52) for driving its centrifugal processing chamber. Remotely-actuable valves (124) associated with the disposable sets are located on the apparatus' cabinet in the proximity of said locations. Valve actuation provides a display of the state of actuation of the valves (124). Selection of this state of actuation is arranged to control connection of the centrifugal processing chamber (20) of each fitted disposable set with a flexible container (200) of the same disposable set or another container, and to control connection of the centrifugal processing chambers (20) with flexible containers of the same or other fitted disposable sets in different combinations, in particular with series and/or parallel connections.