Multi-Axis Rotary Cell Culture for Simulated Microgravity Shear

The patent implements a nested ring structure where an inner ring is positioned within an outer ring, both capable of rotation around orthogonal axes. The inner ring holds cell culture tubes and can rotate independently, while the outer ring provides additional rotational capability. This nesting arrangement enables complex multi-axis motion and microgravity simulation without requiring a completely separate system for each function, thus achieving high adaptability while controlling device complexity.

The patent designs the multi-axis RCCS to perform multiple functions through a unified structure. The concentric rings can rotate around orthogonal axes to simultaneously achieve microgravity simulation, varied fluid shear stress conditions, and different orientation angles for cell culture tubes. The system can accommodate various cell culture containers and study multiple biological processes (cellular behavior, nucleic acid delivery, cell aggregation) using the same hardware platform, thereby achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.

The patent specifies precise geometric parameters for the concentric rings including radius ratios (inner ring radius to outer ring radius), rotation axis orientations (orthogonal axes), and connection point positions. These parameter specifications guide the 3D printing process to achieve the required functional precision. By carefully controlling key parameters such as ring thickness, radial distances, and angular orientations during manufacturing, the system achieves adequate precision for microgravity simulation and fluid shear stress control while maintaining cost-effectiveness through additive manufacturing.