Lyophilization Sensor Stopper Cable Retention Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor positioning devices for lyophilisation processes face challenges in maintaining sensor stability due to cable displacement issues, particularly in sterile environments where gloved operators may accidentally pull sensors out of position, and there are concerns about thermal mass interference from clamping devices within the vial.
Innovation Solution
A sensor positioning device with a stopper design featuring a second passage section oriented perpendicular to the exterior surface, creating bents in the cable that prevent displacement and minimize thermal mass impact, using silicone or EDPM rubber for frictional stability, and optional features like tabs and projections for enhanced handling and fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cable passage is used to secure the sensor cable in the stopper, then the sensor positioning is improved, but the cable may still be pulled out of position by gloved operators
Solution Approach 1:
The cable passage is divided into two distinct sections: a first passage section extending from the distal end towards the exterior surface, and a second passage section extending from the exterior surface towards the inner surface. This segmentation creates multiple stages of cable retention, where each section provides an additional barrier against cable displacement, thereby improving sensor positioning stability without compromising operator safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The second passage section is oriented substantially perpendicular to the exterior surface of the stopper, creating a bent path for the cable. This dimensional change from a linear to a perpendicular orientation adds a new spatial dimension to cable retention, making it more difficult for operators to pull the cable out while maintaining secure positioning.
2Reliability
If clamping devices are used within the vial to secure the sensor, then sensor stability is improved, but thermal mass interference with measurements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable retention function is extracted from within the vial and relocated to the stopper structure itself. The second passage section extending through the stopper wall provides cable security without requiring clamping devices inside the vial, thereby eliminating thermal mass interference while maintaining sensor stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper acts as an intermediary structure that provides cable retention without direct contact with the vial interior. By routing the cable through the second passage section in the stopper wall, the system achieves stability without introducing thermal mass into the vial environment, thus avoiding measurement interference.
3Reliability
If the second passage section extends perpendicular to the exterior surface, then cable displacement is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second passage section is integrated directly into the stopper wall as a unified structure, merging the cable retention function with the existing stopper geometry. This integration avoids adding separate components or complex assembly steps, thereby preventing cable displacement while minimizing increases in device complexity.
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 effectively reduces sensor displacement risks and maintains measurement accuracy by ensuring the cable is securely fixed without adding thermal mass, facilitating easier handling and mounting, especially in sterile environments.
Implementation Method 1
using silicone or EDPM rubber for frictional stability
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a sensor positioning device for use on a vial in a lyophilisation process, a sensor unit including such a device, and a method of mounting a sensor in a stopper for a vial. The sensor positioning device comprises a stopper for closing an opening in a neck of the vial. A cable passage is provided in the stopper and has a first passage section extending through a first part of the stopper. A second passage section is provided between the first passage section and an outer rim and a sub-section thereof extends away from an exterior surface and is located at a distance from the first passage section in a direction parallel to the exterior surface. In the sensor unit at least two bends are provided on the cable. The invention also relates to a sensor positioning device comprising a stopper, a spacer and a connector.