Parallel Chromatography Skids for Continuous Biomanufacturing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional chromatography systems, particularly large-scale single-column systems and complex multi-column setups, face challenges such as increased processing time, high costs, environmental impact, and reduced flexibility due to large facility footprints and complex configurations, while also suffering from poor fault tolerance and inefficient use of resources.
Innovation Solution
A continuous parallel chromatography system comprising multiple independent chromatography column skids operating in parallel, with each skid capable of independent batch processing, and a control circuit that synchronizes operations to manage full cycles including long and short steps, allowing for flexible and expandable processing without complex interconnections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a single large scale chromatography column is used, then the facility footprint is reduced, but the processing time increases and flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the chromatography operation into multiple independent columns (first column and second column) that can operate simultaneously in parallel. This segmentation allows the processing to be distributed across multiple units, reducing the time required compared to a single large column while maintaining a compact facility footprint through modular arrangement.
2Productivity
If complex multi-column cycling strategies are used, then resin utilization improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple independent chromatography columns that can be operated in parallel with simplified cycling strategies. Each column operates independently with standard load-wash-elute-regen cycles, eliminating the need for complex valve configurations and sophisticated control strategies required by traditional multi-column systems, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining high resin utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic cycling of columns through standardized operations (load, wash, elute, regenerate) in a coordinated manner. Columns are cycled periodically and independently, allowing continuous processing without requiring complex real-time control strategies, thus achieving high productivity with simpler device architecture.
3Productivity
If columns are interconnected in series, then continuous output is achieved, but fault tolerance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple independent chromatography columns that are not interconnected in series but operate in parallel. Each column is a独立的 processing unit with its own fluid path and control, allowing one column to be isolated and serviced without affecting the operation of other columns. This segmentation provides inherent fault tolerance while maintaining continuous output capability through parallel operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows individual columns to be taken offline for regeneration or maintenance while other columns continue to process. A column that has completed its cycle can be isolated, regenerated, and brought back into service, while the continuous output is maintained by other active columns. This enables fault tolerance and continuous operation without requiring complex interconnections.
4Productivity
If multiple columns are connected with complex valving systems, then process continuity is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the process into multiple independent column units, each with standardized operations and simple fluid paths. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex valving systems and interconnections between columns, making each unit easy to operate independently while achieving process continuity through parallel operation and coordinated cycling of multiple simple units.
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
This approach reduces processing time, minimizes equipment costs, enhances fault tolerance, and promotes efficient use of resources, enabling flexible and efficient biomanufacturing with reduced environmental impact by allowing individual skid isolation and continuous operation without halting the entire process.
Implementation Method 1
a first chromatography column of a plurality of chromatography columns is received with feedstock containing a protein and impurities
Implementation Method 2
a first pump of a plurality of pumps is used to load a first amount of the feedstock onto the first chromatography column
Implementation Method 3
a first ultraviolet (UV) monitor of a plurality of UV monitors is used to monitor an eluate stream from the first chromatography column
Data Source
AI summary
Parallel chromatography systems and continuous manufacturing methods are described herein that utilize two or more chromatography column skids having columns operating in parallel with automation controls governing which column to load at a given time.