Rotary Fluid Coupler Assembly for Aseptic Multi-Conduit Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Biopharmaceutical and vaccine production processes require efficient and aseptic fluid transfer systems with versatile connectivity options, as existing solutions often lack flexible and aseptic means to connect multiple fluid conduits, leading to inefficiencies and increased chemical waste.
Innovation Solution
A rotary valve assembly with a multiposition valve head and elastomeric distributor allows for aseptic coupling of input fluid conduits to multiple output conduits, featuring a rotatable member with complementary engagement features to prevent relative rotation and ensure secure, leak-proof connections, enabling automated operation and flexible system configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If disposable fluidic conduits are used to reduce chemical waste and improve aseptic operations, then the number of unique fluid-carrying conduits increases from 2-20 to 100 or more, leading to increased system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary valve assembly provides a universal connection interface that can couple a single input conduit to multiple output conduits (2-16 or more positions). This multi-functional valve head allows one valve assembly to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate connection points, reducing the overall number of discrete conduit connections needed in the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary valve head changes the operational parameter of conduit connectivity by allowing dynamic selection between multiple output positions. This enables a single input conduit to be selectively connected to different output conduits based on process requirements, providing flexibility without requiring permanent dedicated connections for each potential pathway.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fluid conduits are connected to enable versatile system configurations, then connectivity options increase, but the risk of contamination and difficulty in maintaining aseptic conditions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary valve head features a nested structure where the rotatable member with sealing surfaces is contained within the valve body. The elastomeric distributor is positioned within the valve head, creating nested sealing zones that prevent contamination. This nested design allows multiple conduit connections to be made through a single sealed interface, maintaining aseptic conditions while providing versatile connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary valve assembly itself can be designed as a disposable component that is discarded after use, eliminating the need for complex sterilization and cleaning procedures between operations. This single-use approach ensures aseptic conditions are maintained without requiring elaborate sterilization protocols for complex multi-conduit systems.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed conduit connections are used, then system assembly is simpler, but cleaning and sterilization between operations becomes more difficult and generates chemical waste
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary valve assembly segments the fluid transfer function into a modular unit with distinct input and output ports. This segmentation allows the valve to be easily connected and disconnected from different conduit configurations, simplifying system assembly and disassembly while eliminating the need for cleaning fixed conduit systems between operations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a rotary valve with multiple output conduits is used to provide flexible connections, then adaptability increases, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric distributor within the rotary valve head uses flexible material properties to create effective seals against the rotatable member. This flexible sealing approach simplifies the overall valve structure compared to rigid sealing mechanisms, reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to provide multiple selectable output connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A rotary valve may be operated by automated means and permits aseptic coupling of a source fluid conduit to any of a few or many possible outlet conduits. The valve assembly may be provided with numerous connectors for output coupling but it is not necessary to connect tubing to all of them.