Single-Use Fluid Couplings for Aseptic Spill-Free Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In fluid systems, particularly in bioprocessing, there is a need for aseptic disconnection of fluid flow paths to prevent biological contamination and minimize fluid spillage during disconnection, while existing solutions often require sterile environments and may allow for reconnection, leading to potential contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
The development of single-use fluid coupling devices with a removable sleeve that holds open valves during connection and closes them upon disconnection, ensuring irreversible blockage of fluid paths and preventing reconnection, thus minimizing spillage and contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional couplings are disconnected, then fluid flow path can be changed, but fluid spillage and biological contamination occur
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is pre-configured to automatically close when the coupling halves are separated, preventing fluid spillage and contamination before they can occur during disconnection
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism is designed to counteract the potential harmful effect of fluid leakage by closing the flow path as soon as the coupling connection is broken, providing preliminary protection against contamination
2Adaptability or versatility
If couplings are designed for reconnection, then operational flexibility is improved, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed as a single-use component where the valve mechanism is discarded after one connection cycle, eliminating the risk of contamination from repeated use while maintaining operational flexibility during the service life
3Reliability
If aseptic disconnection is implemented, then contamination is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism is integrated directly into the coupling half structure, merging the sealing function with the connection function into a single unified component, thereby preventing contamination without significantly increasing overall 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 eliminates fluid spillage and biological contamination by ensuring valves close upon disconnection, reducing the need for sterile environments and preventing reuse, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
the removable sleeve can be engaged with the first and second couplings in such a manner that the removable sleeve holds open the valves of the first and second couplings
Implementation Method 2
each of the valves can be spring-biased to close
Data Source
AI summary
Some fluid coupling devices described herein are configured for use in fluid systems for purposes of providing a single-use, disconnection functionality that can substantially limit fluid spillage when being disconnected. In some embodiments, the coupling portions cannot be functionally reconnected to each other after being disconnected from each other.