Segmented Mixing Plate for Low Dead Volume Liquid Blending
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mixing devices for liquids and pastes suffer from high dead volumes, inefficiency, and difficulty in cleaning, particularly in applications like 3D bioprinting, where cost-effectiveness and quick mixing are crucial, and leakage issues are common in multi-part designs.
Innovation Solution
A device with a mixing element comprising a mixing plate connected to two hollow cylinders through multiple partial inlets, allowing even distribution of liquid flows and bidirectional discharge, with a scalable design and minimal dead volume, manufactured via additive manufacturing for ease of cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multi-stage mixing processes are used to achieve thorough mixing, then mixing quality is improved, but dead volume increases and residence time becomes too long for reactive materials
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing plate is segmented into multiple partial inlets (at least two per hollow cylinder) that distribute flow into separate mixing zones on opposite sides of the plate. This segmentation allows parallel mixing pathways that reduce overall residence time while maintaining thorough mixing through multiple entry points and flow paths
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from sequential multi-stage mixing to simultaneous bidirectional mixing by utilizing both sides of the mixing plate. Liquid flows from opposite directions through the mixing plate, creating mixing action in two dimensions at once rather than requiring multiple sequential stages, thereby reducing dead volume and residence time
2Manufacturing precision
If gradient mixing heads with multiple rolling stages are used, then mixing thoroughness is improved, but dead volume becomes extremely large causing material waste
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the mixing functions of multiple sequential stages into a single integrated mixing plate structure. By combining bidirectional flow paths and multiple partial inlets in one component, it achieves thorough mixing without requiring the extended architecture of traditional gradient mixing heads, thereby eliminating the associated dead volume and material waste
3Adaptability or versatility
If multi-part mixing device designs are used, then assembly flexibility is improved, but leakage issues increase and cleaning becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing plate is designed as a single integrated component that combines multiple functions (flow distribution, mixing, and discharge) that would traditionally require multiple separate parts. This integration eliminates interfaces between components where leakage could occur, while the internal flow distribution structure maintains the adaptability and flexibility needed for different mixing requirements
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 device achieves efficient mixing with minimal waste and reduced residence time, enhancing cost-effectiveness and applicability to reactive materials, while being easy to clean and maintain.
Implementation Method 1
the partial flows of the first liquid flow and the partial flows of the second liquid flow meet in the mixing plate, mix and form a liquid mixture
Implementation Method 2
the liquid flow of the first liquid is divided by the at least two partial inlets into partial flows that impinge on the first side of the mixing plate
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (100) for mixing two liquids or pastes, comprising a first inlet (10), a second inlet (20), a first hollow cylinder (30), a second hollow cylinder (40), a mixing element, and optionally at least one central outlet (95). The mixing element has a mixing plate (70) with a first and a second side and at least two partial inlets (50-55) through which the first side of the mixing plate is connected to the first hollow cylinder, and at least two partial inlets (60-65) through which the second side of the mixing plate is connected to the second hollow cylinder. Furthermore, the first side of the mixing plate has a first outlet (80) and the second side of the mixing plate has a second outlet (90), wherein the first outlet extends at least partially through the first hollow cylinder and the second outlet extends at least partially through the second hollow cylinder.Furthermore, the invention comprises a method for mixing a first and a second liquid or paste with a device according to the invention.