Stackable Filtration Cassette with Variable Area Ratios
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current filtration cassettes for bioprocess feeds lack flexibility in filter media combinations and area ratios, leading to inefficient filtration processes and potential clogging, as they often require fixed 1:1 area ratios between coarse and fine filters, resulting in over or under-dimensioning issues.
Innovation Solution
A stackable normal flow filtration cassette system that allows flexible assembly of filter modules with various area ratios, enabling combinations of filter media in parallel or serial flow-paths, and using a simple frame construction without high clamping forces or specialized manifolds, allowing for sanitary couplings and efficient filter module design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If fixed 1:1 area ratios between coarse and fine filters are used, then the filtration structure is simple, but the filtration efficiency decreases due to over-dimensioning of one filter type and under-dimensioning of the other
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements variable area ratios between coarse and fine filters by making the filter modules stackable in different configurations. Users can dynamically adjust the number of coarse versus fine filter modules in the stack to match specific feed characteristics and process requirements, transforming a fixed-ratio system into a flexible, adaptive one.
Solution Approach 2:
The filtration system is divided into independent, interchangeable filter modules (coarse and fine) that can be stacked in various combinations. This segmentation allows each module to be independently sized and configured, enabling optimization of the area ratio between coarse and fine filtration surfaces without redesigning the entire system.
2Device complexity
If fixed filter media combinations are used, then the device design is simplified, but the adaptability to different bioprocess feeds is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal filter module design with standardized connection interfaces and dimensions that can accommodate different filter media types (coarse, fine, and intermediate). This universal platform allows the same mechanical structure to be adapted to various bioprocess feeds by simply changing the filter media selection in each module, achieving multi-functionality without increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables dynamic reconfiguration of filter media combinations by allowing users to select and stack different types of filter modules in sequences tailored to specific feed characteristics, cell types, and culture conditions, making the device adaptable to diverse applications.
3Stability of the object's composition
If high clamping forces are applied to hold the stack together, then the structural stability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase due to specialized clamping mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a frame construction where clamping forces are distributed evenly across all filter modules in the stack through standardized connection points. This creates an equipotential clamping system where each module experiences uniform pressure, maintaining structural stability without requiring complex differential clamping mechanisms for different positions in the stack.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping function is merged with the frame structure itself, which serves both as the structural support and the clamping mechanism. This integration eliminates the need for separate, specialized clamping devices, reducing device complexity while maintaining adequate structural stability through the rigid frame design.
4Productivity
If specialized manifolds are designed for the filtration system, then the fluid distribution is optimized, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes standardized sanitary couplings and connection interfaces that serve multiple functions: fluid distribution, module connection, and alignment. These universal connectors replace specialized manifolds, achieving adequate fluid distribution through the standardized pathways while significantly reducing device complexity and manufacturing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter modules themselves incorporate integrated fluid distribution pathways within their standardized connections, eliminating the need for external specialized manifolds. Each module self-services its fluid distribution needs through its connection design, simplifying the overall system architecture.
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
This solution provides a flexible and efficient method for clarifying bioprocess feeds by optimizing filter module combinations, reducing clogging risks, and minimizing filter surface usage, thereby enhancing the overall filtration process and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a filter medium (7) between the inlet chamber (5) and the outlet chamber (6)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention discloses a normal flow filtration cassette (1) stackable with like cassettes, said cassette comprising: at least three port conduits (2,3,4); an inlet chamber (5) in fluid communication at least with a first of said port conduits (2); an outlet chamber (6) in fluid communication at least with a second of the port conduits (3); and a filter medium (7) between said inlet chamber and said outlet chamber, wherein said at least three port conduits (2,3,4) are each in fluid communication with a corresponding inlet port (8,9,10)and are each in fluid communication also with one of a corresponding set of outlet ports (11,12,13), and wherein each of said set of inlet ports (8,9 10) is arranged to cooperate with a respective complementary outlet port of an adjacent like cassette when in a stack and said outlet ports (11,12,13)are each arranged to cooperate with a respective complementary inlet port of a further adjacent like cassette when in a stack.