Three-Element Sealing Device for Sterile Biopharmaceutical Accessory Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a device that ensures an airtight connection of an accessory to a receptacle, facilitates easy and quick insertion of the accessory into the receptacle, and allows for calibration of the accessory, particularly in a sterile and aseptic environment, while providing permanent protection to the accessory.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a first element for rigid attachment to the receptacle, a second element for axial movement, and a third element that supports the accessory, allowing for airtight closure and protection, with a chamber for storage and calibration of the accessory, enabling easy mounting and operation in a sterile environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an accessory is directly connected to a receptacle, then the connection is simple, but airtightness and sterile protection cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device is divided into three separate elements: first element (attached to receptacle), second element (movable connector), and third element (supports accessory). This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function while maintaining overall airtightness and sterility, resolving the contradiction between reliable connection and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The second element acts as an intermediary component that moves between the first and third elements, enabling controlled access while maintaining airtight seals. This mediator approach ensures that the accessory can be connected and disconnected without compromising the sterile environment or airtightness of the receptacle.
2Ease of operation
If the accessory is permanently protected, then the accessory is protected from contamination, but calibration and operation become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The second element is designed to be movable, allowing the system to dynamically transition between protected state (accessory enclosed) and operational state (accessory accessible for calibration). This dynamic design resolves the contradiction by enabling both protection and ease of operation at different times as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory is pre-protected within the sealed connecting device structure before use. The third element with protective top keeps the accessory enclosed and protected until calibration is needed, at which point the structure can be opened in a controlled manner. This preliminary protection approach ensures sterility while allowing subsequent calibration operations.
3Productivity
If the accessory is easily inserted, then the mounting process is quick, but secure airtight connection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The three-element segmented structure allows for easy sequential assembly: first element attaches to receptacle, then second element connects to first, and third element connects to second. This segmentation enables quick mounting while each connection point can maintain airtight seals, resolving the contradiction between mounting speed and connection security.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for connecting to a vessel an accessory has an active portion that includes a first, second and third member and a chamber. The first member ensures rigid attachment of the device to the vessel, defines a passageway, acts as a holder for the second member and as a translation guide between a first distal state and a second proximal state, contributes as a guide for the third member and participates in defining the chamber. The second member acts as a holder for the third member rigidly attached thereon, defines a mobile member capable of sliding between the first distal state and the second proximal state. The third member includes a head, and acts as a holder for the accessory rigidly attached thereon, defines a mobile member capable of sliding between the first distal state and the second proximal state, ensures in the first distal state the tight closing of the opening using the head, ensures in the second proximal state a protection of the active proximal portion using the head, and participates in defining the chamber.