Removable Rotor Assembly for Counter Flow Centrifuge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current counter flow centrifugation systems require complex and time-consuming installation processes and are limited to single vessel sizes, restricting their functionality and adoption in live cell processing applications.
Innovation Solution
A disposable, aseptic counter flow centrifuge system with a removable apparatus featuring a plastic rotor and 'skip rope' tubing design that allows for quick and easy installation and multiple processing volumes, enabling simultaneous processes without the need for sterile connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a permanent duct connection and bearing arrangement are used in the centrifuge, then the system achieves reliable rotation and separation function, but the device complexity increases and installation becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The centrifuge system is divided into separable components: a removable rotor assembly that can be independently installed and removed from the stationary bowl. The duct is permanently connected to the rotor rather than the bowl, allowing the entire rotor-duct assembly to be treated as a modular unit that simplifies installation while maintaining reliable rotation through the bearing arrangement between the rotor and bowl.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a fixed permanent installation to a dynamic removable configuration. The rotor assembly with its integrated duct can be dynamically installed or removed based on operational needs, reducing installation complexity while the bearing arrangement ensures reliable rotation during operation. The guide means also provides dynamic guidance during the installation process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single vessel size is used in the centrifuge system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and functionality are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The removable rotor assembly serves multiple functions: it can be configured with different vessel sizes (single or dual vessels) to accommodate various processing volumes, and can be removed and replaced based on specific operational requirements. This universal design allows the same basic rotor structure to adapt to different processing needs without requiring a completely different system configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system becomes dynamically configurable by allowing the rotor assembly to be removed and replaced with different configurations (single vessel, dual vessels, different sizes) based on the specific processing requirements. This dynamic reconfigurability provides adaptability across different processing volumes while maintaining a relatively simple base device structure.
3Reliability
If sliding seals are used between stationary and rotating elements, then the system achieves continuous fluidic connection, but the installation process becomes complicated and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The fluidic connection is segmented into two parts: permanent connections within the rotor assembly (where sliding seals are needed but contained) and removable connections at the bowl-rotor interface. This segmentation isolates the complex sliding seal installation to a modular unit, making the overall installation easier and less error-prone while maintaining reliable fluidic connections where needed.
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
Facilitates simplified and rapid integration into larger processing systems, enhancing cell viability and processing flexibility by eliminating the need for complex installation procedures and allowing for various cell processing procedures such as washing, separation, and media exchange.
Implementation Method 1
Counter flow centrifugation is a technique that creates an environment where material, such as particles (e.g., live cells), is suspended between a centrifugal force and an inward-flowing suspension fluid as a fluidized bed.
Implementation Method 2
The vessels can be rotated to rotate material within the vessels
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus of a counter flow centrifuge can include at least one vessel, a handle assembly, and a plurality of tubes extending through the handle assembly and to the vessel. The vessel can be rotated at twice a speed of the handle assembly when the apparatus is inserted into a bowl of the counter flow centrifuge.