Pinch Valve Assembly for Reversible Multi-Branch Fluid Routing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pharmaceutical and bioprocess systems require complex and cumbersome setups with numerous conduits and valves for fluid flow reversal, necessitating frequent sterilization to prevent cross-contamination, and there is a need for a more elegant and compact solution that incorporates flexible, disposable tubing.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with a multidirectional flow path featuring a valve body and flexible conduit with a loop portion and branches, utilizing multiple valves to selectively pinch the conduit in different configurations, optionally encapsulated by rigid jackets, allowing for fluid direction in various manufacturing processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate valves and conduits are used for fluid flow reversal, then flow direction control is achieved, but device complexity and sterilization requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single integrated valve body with multiple ports. The valve member can be positioned to direct fluid flow between multiple branches simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate valves for each flow path configuration. This merging approach maintains flow reversal capability while significantly reducing the total number of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The single valve body is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple flow directions and configurations. The valve member can assume different positions to achieve various flow patterns (e.g., forward flow, reverse flow, bypass), making one valve perform the work of multiple specialized valves. This universal design reduces system complexity while maintaining adaptability.
2Ease of manufacture
If flexible disposable tubing is used, then sterilization requirements are reduced, but structural support and flow control precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible conduit is nested within the rigid valve body structure. The valve body provides a stable framework that houses and supports the flexible tubing, ensuring proper positioning and structural integrity. This nested arrangement allows the system to benefit from both the disposability and ease of manufacture of flexible tubing and the structural reliability of rigid components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a composite structure combining rigid valve body material (providing structural support and precision) with flexible conduit material (providing ease of manufacture and sterilization advantages). This composite approach allows each material to contribute its strengths, achieving both structural reliability and manufacturing ease.
3Volume of moving object
If compact valve assembly is implemented, then space efficiency improves, but holdup volume reduction becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The valve internal passages are designed with three-dimensional optimization to minimize dead zones and holdup volumes. By carefully designing the spatial arrangement of ports and internal flow paths, the valve achieves compact external dimensions while maintaining efficient fluid flow that minimizes trapped fluid. The dimensional optimization ensures that compactness does not come at the cost of excessive holdup volume.
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
The solution provides a compact, efficient, and sterile fluid flow management system that minimizes holdup volumes and facilitates easy replacement of flexible tubing, reducing contamination risks and operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
Multiple valves are situated on the valve body and are used to selectively pinch the loop portion in different pinching configurations to direct fluid to or from the particular branches
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly with a multidirectional flow path includes a valve body that includes respective hinged portions defining respective passageways extending through the valve body when in a closed state. A flexible conduit or tubing having a loop portion and a plurality of branches extending from the loop portion is at least partially positioned within the valve body. Portions of the loop that extend beyond the valve body are encapsulated by respective rigid jackets. Multiple valves are situated on the valve body and are used to selectively pinch the loop portion in different pinching configurations to direct fluid to or from the particular branches. The valve assembly may be integrated into a manufacturing or other production process with optional additional jackets used to encapsulate the flexible conduit branches.