Fluid Mixing Unit and Fluid Mixing Method

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a specialized fluid mixing unit designed to connect two fluid supply containers (such as syringes) in a leak-free manner and efficiently mix their contents. The core innovation lies in a movable mixing element inside a sealed connector, which allows for thorough and homogeneous mixing of fluids—especially useful for sensitive mixtures like bioinks—while preserving the integrity of any biological cells within the fluids. The design minimizes cell damage and improves the evenness of the mixture compared to traditional connectors.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Preparation of bioinks for 3D bioprinting applications, enabling safe mixing of cells and biomaterials.
• Mixing pharmaceuticals or sensitive biological solutions without compromising cell viability.
• Mixing two or more fluids with different viscosities in laboratory or clinical environments.
• Preparation of medical formulations where precise and homogeneous mixing is crucial (e.g., intravenous therapies, vaccine formulations).
• Use in research laboratories for cell culture preparation and tissue engineering.
• Mixing of gels, liquids, or even gases in disposable containers for point-of-care diagnostics or therapy preparation.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables highly homogeneous mixing even for viscous fluids or bioinks.
• Reduces cell damage during mixing, increasing cell viability and functionality after mixing.
• Maintains a leak-free connection for safe handling of sensitive or sterile fluids.
• Compatible with standard syringe/luer connectors, allowing easy integration into existing lab or clinical workflows.
• Improves reproducibility and quality of bioprinted structures and other applications relying on mixed fluids.
• Can accommodate fluids of varying viscosity, extending its utility across a wide spectrum of formulations.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The disclosure refers to a fluid mixing unit (1), comprising a connector (2) with a first lock section (3) configured to provide a leak-free connection with a first fluid supply container (4) and a second lock section (5) configured to provide a leak-free connection with a second fluid supply container (6), the connector (2) having a receiving room (7) formed between the first lock section (3) and the second lock section (5). The receiving room (7) is respectively sealed against the lock sections (3, 5). The fluid mixing unit (1) further comprises a mixing element (8) extending from the first lock section (3) into the second lock section (5) and through the receiving room (7), the mixing element (8) having an internal fluid passage (9) configured to provide a fluid communication between the first lock section (3) and the second lock section (5), the mixing element (8) being movable in a direction back and forth between the first and the second lock section (3, 5). Further, a method of mixing fluids is provided.