SMART TANK FOR A BIO-PHARMA PROCESS

Abstract

The present invention relates to smart tank for a bio-pharma process line, a smart tank assembly, a method for assembling a smart tank and a system comprising multiple smart tanks. The smart tank comprises a top plate element, at least one sidewall element, and a bottom plate element, wherein the top plate element, the at least one sidewall element and the bottom plate element are arranged to form a reservoir for receiving at least one biochemical medium. The smart tank comprises further at least one channel, for guiding the at least one biochemical medium and/or an operating medium. The at least one channel extends within the top plate element and at least one of the at least one sidewall element and/or the bottom plate element.

Claims

1. A smart tank (1) for a bio-pharma process line, the smart tank comprising: a top plate element (100), at least one sidewall element (200, 210, 220), and a bottom plate element (300), wherein the top plate element, the at least one sidewall element and the bottom plate element are arranged to form at least one reservoir (500) for receiving at least one biochemical medium; and the smart tank (1) comprises further at least one channel (20, 21, 22, 23), for guiding the at least one biochemical medium and/or an operating medium, wherein the at least one channel extends within the top plate element and at least one of the at least one sidewall element and/or the bottom plate element, wherein the length of the at least one channel is longer than the thickness of the respective top plate element, sidewall element and/or the bottom plate element.

2. The smart tank (1) of claim 1, wherein the at least one channel (20, 21, 22, 23) extends in the at least one sidewall element (200, 210, 220) and at least one of the top plate element (100) and the bottom plate element (300).

3. The smart tank (1) of claim 1, wherein the at least one channel (20, 21, 22, 23) is chosen from a group of channel-types, comprising the following channel types: an inlet channel, for guiding a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium to the reservoir of the smart tank, wherein the inlet channel may comprise a sparger; an outlet channel, for removing a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium from the reservoir of the smart tank; a retentate channel; a bypass-channel, for guiding a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium, wherein the bypass-channel is not connected to the reservoir of the smart tank, or wherein the bypass-channel is adapted to be fluidically separated from or connected to the reservoir of the smart tank; a heating or cooling channel for guiding a tempered heating or cooling medium; a sampling channel, for taking a sample of biochemical medium and/or of operating medium from the reservoir of the smart tank, a recirculation channel, for recirculating a medium in the smart tank, a wetting channel and/or flushing fluid channel for wetting or flushing components of the smart tank, particularly at least one filter, a product channel, for removing products from the reservoir of the smart tank; a feed channel for providing medium to the reservoir of the smart tank; a permeate or filtrate channel for removing/recirculating permeate/filtrate from the reservoir of the smart tank; a waste channel for removing waste from the reservoir of the smart tank; a cell bleed channel for harvesting cells; a cell channel for suppling, removing and/or transferring cells; a pressure channel, for pressurizing at least portions of the smart tank; and a washing channel, a cleaning channel and/or eluding channel for loading different solutions to the smart tank, particularly to cartridges for chromatography, and wherein the smart tank may comprise multiple channels of different channel-types and/or the same channel type.

4. The smart tank (1) of claim 1, further comprising at least one port (30, 32), wherein the at least one port is associated with a respective channel (20), and wherein the port is chosen from a group of port-types, comprising the following port-types: a fluid inlet port; a gas inlet port; a fluid outlet port; a gas outlet port; a cell bleed port, a cell transfer port, a medium supply port, a medium remove port, an element-interconnecting port, and a tank-interconnecting port.

5. The smart tank (1) of claim 1, wherein the smart tank further comprises at least one filter (40), wherein the at least one port (30) may be covered by the at least one filter (40), and wherein the filter may be chosen from a group of filter-types, comprising the following filter-types: a pre-filter; a sterile filter; a bacterial filter; a viral filter; a mycoplasma filter; an ultrafiltration filter; a diafiltration filter; a cell filter; a cell harvest filter; a fluid filter; an air filter, and a gas filter, wherein the filter covering the at least one port maybe heated and/or cooled.

6. The smart tank (1) of claim 1, further comprising at least one valve (50), the at least one valve being associated with the at least one channel (20), wherein the valve may be a flow control valve, a cutoff valve, a pressure relief valve or a non return valve, and wherein the valve may be a mechanical valve that is configured to be actuatable from the outside of the smart tank, by means of an actuating means (52).

7. The smart tank (1) of claim 1, further comprising at least one connector means (60, 62) for interconnecting the smart tank (1) with a further smart tank (2), wherein the connector means (60, 62) may provide a fluidical connection and may further be adapted for interconnecting the smart tank fluidically with a further smart tank without using a hose.

8. The smart tank (1) of claim 1, wherein an surface (510) of the reservoir (500) and/or the at least one channel (20) is coated, particularly with a glass--based coating and/or wherein the smart tank is sterilizable, by means of autoclaving, ETO gas, and / or gamma radiation, prior, during or after being assembled.

9. The smart tank (1) of claim 1, wherein the top plate element (100), at least one of the sidewall elements (200, 210, 220) and/or the bottom plate element (300) comprises at least one assembly-connecting means (70) and/or at least one corresponding assembly-connecting means (72), wherein the assembly-connecting means (70) and the corresponding assembly connecting means (72) are configured to engage with each other, so as to secure an assembly of at least two adjacent elements, chosen from the group of top plate element (100), one or more sidewall elements (200, 210, 220) and bottom plate element (300), wherein the engagement of the assembly-connecting means (70) and the corresponding assembly-connecting means (72) may be a self- retaining engagement.

10. The smart tank (1) of claim 1, wherein the smart tank multiple side-wall elements (200, 210, 220), wherein the top plate element (100), the sidewall elements (200, 210, 220) and the bottom plate element (300) are arranged to form the reservoir (500), wherein at least one of the sidewall elements (200, 210, 220) and in particular each one of the multiple sidewall elements (200, 210, 220) comprises a first sidewall portion (200a) and a second sidewall portion (200b), wherein the first sidewall portion (200a) and the second sidewall portion (200b) enclose an angle a, wherein the angle a is about 90° or about 120° or about 135°, so that the reservoir (500) has a substantial rectangular, hexagonal or octagonal cross-section, when seen from the top plate element side, wherein the first sidewall portion (200a) may extend laterally farther than the second sidewall portion (200b), and wherein the inner edge formed by the first sidewall portion and the second sidewall portion, maybe a rounded edge and/or, wherein any one of the top plate element (100), the at least one sidewall element (200, 210, 220) and/or the bottom plate element (300) comprises at least one first channel portion (20a) and at least one channel-connecting means (80) being associated with a respective first channel portion (20a), and wherein a different one of the top plate element (100), the at least one sidewall element (200, 210, 220), a further side wall element (200, 210, 220) and/or the bottom plate element (300) comprises at least one second channel portion (20b) and at least one corresponding channel-connecting means (82) being associated with a respective second channel portion (20b), wherein the channel-connecting means (80) and the corresponding channel-connecting means (82) are configured to engage with each other, so as to form a fluidically sealed channel connection, between the first channel portion (20a) and the second channel portion (20b), so as to form the at least one channel (20).

11. The smart tank (1) of claim 1, wherein the smart tank further comprises at least one of the following: a pumping means, wherein the pumping means may be separated from the reservoir and/or the at least one channel by a flexible membrane, so as to prevent direct contact between the at least one biochemical medium and the pumping means; a stirring means (90), wherein the stirring means may be driveable from the outside of the smart tank; a blending means, such as a fluid deflection plate, which may be integrally formed with either one of the sidewall elements, the top plate element and/or the bottom plate element; a cell-harvest-means; at least one cartridge for chromatography (1500a, 1500b, 1500c); a cross-flow- cassette; a filter cartridge (1400a, 1400b, 1400c), a resin means, a hollow-fibre means (1700a, 1700b, 1700c); a rupture disc and/or a bag, wherein the bag may line the inner wall of the reservoir and/or, wherein the smart tank is connectable to at least one sensor (1010) or a sensor module (1000), comprising multiple sensors (1010), wherein the at least one sensor and the sensors of the sensor module are chosen from the group of pH sensor, temperature sensor, dissolved oxygen sensor, biomass sensor, foam sensor, pressure sensor, flow sensor, O2 sensor, N2 sensor, CO2 sensor, and spectroscopy means, such as RAMAN, NIR and/or UV spectroscopy means.

12. A smart tank assembly (1′) adapted to be assembled to a smart tank (1) wherein the smart tank assembly (1′) comprises a top plate element (100), at least one sidewall element (200, 210, 220), and a bottom plate element (300), wherein the top plate element (100), the at least one sidewall element (200, 210, 220) and the bottom plate element (300) can be assembled to form a reservoir (500) for receiving at least one biochemical medium, wherein at least one of the top plate element (100), the at least one sidewall element (200, 210, 220) and the bottom plate element (300) comprises at least one channel (20), for guiding the at least one biochemical medium and/or an operating medium.

13. A smart tank system, comprising multiple smart tanks (1, 2, 3), wherein the smart tank system comprises: a first smart tank (1) according to claim 1 that is interconnectable with a second smart tank (2) according to claim 1 by at least one connector means (60), when the second smart tank (2) is arranged directly adjacent to the first smart tank (1), and wherein at least one of the one or more channels (20, 21, 22) of the first smart tank (1) is fluidically connected to a respective channel of the second smart tank (2), when the first smart tank is interconnected with the second smart tank (2).

14. The smart tank system according to claim 13 further comprising an adapter (3000), wherein the adapter (3000) is adapted to interconnect the first smart tank (1) and the second smart tank (2), wherein the adapter (3000) includes at least one channel (3001) and at least one fluidic module (3030), wherein the at least one channel (3001) of the adapter (3000) is fluidically connected to a respective channel of the first smart tank (1) and a respective channel of the second smart tank (2), when the adapter (3000) interconnects the first smart tank (1) and the second smart tank (2), and wherein the at least one fluidic module (3030) is at least one of the following: a crossflow cassette, a crossflow hollow fiber module, a hollow fiber filter, a resin capsule, a filter capsule, and/or a magnetic tube.

15. The smart tank system according to claim 13 wherein a height dimension of the first smart tank (1) is smaller than a height dimension of the second smart tank (2), and wherein the smart tank system comprises at least one height compensation means (1100, 1102) that is adapted to be coupled to the first smart tank (1), so that the top plate element (100) of the first smart tank (1) is installed in substantially the same height as the top plate element (102) of the second smart tank (2), when the height compensation means (1100, 1102) is coupled to the first smart tank (1), and/or wherein a volume of the first smart tank (1) is smaller than a volume of the second smart tank, wherein the first smart tank is adapted to be installed on top of the second smart tank.

16. A method (2000) for assembling a smart tank (1) according to claim 1, wherein the method comprises the following steps: providing (2100) a top plate element; providing (2200) at least one sidewall element; providing (2300) a bottom plate element; assembling (2400) the top plate element, at least one sidewall element, and a bottom plate element to form a reservoir for receiving at least one biochemical medium.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0159] In the following, the accompanying figures, that schematically show embodiments of the invention are described. Here,

[0160] FIG. 1 schematically shows a smart tank assembly in a disassembled state;

[0161] FIG. 2 schematically shows a smart tank in an assembled state;

[0162] FIG. 3A schematically shows a smart tank comprising connector means;

[0163] FIG. 3B gives a detailed view of the connector means;

[0164] FIG. 3C gives a detailed view of connector means of adjacent smart tanks;

[0165] FIG. 3D gives a detailed view of interconnected smart tanks;

[0166] FIG. 4 schematically shows a sidewall element, having assembly-connecting means;

[0167] FIG. 5 schematically shows a sidewall element, comprising a channel,

[0168] FIG. 6 schematically shows a channel-connecting means,

[0169] FIG. 7 schematically shows a top plate element, comprising a valve,

[0170] FIG. 8 schematically shows smart tanks, having different volumes;

[0171] FIG. 9A schematically shows a smart tank system;

[0172] FIG. 9B schematically shows a further smart tank system;

[0173] FIG. 10 schematically shows a flow diagram of a method for assembling a smart tank;

[0174] FIG. 11 schematically shows a smart tank;

[0175] FIG. 12 schematically shows a further smart tank;

[0176] FIG. 13 schematically shows a further smart tank;

[0177] FIG. 14 schematically shows a smart tank system including the smart tank of FIG. 13;

[0178] FIG. 15 schematically shows a further smart tank;

[0179] FIG. 16A schematically shows a perspective top view shows a further smart tank;

[0180] FIG. 16B schematically shows a perspective bottom view of the smart tank of FIG. 16A;

[0181] FIG. 17 schematically shows a further smart tank;

[0182] FIG. 18 schematically shows a further smart tank;

[0183] FIG. 19 schematically shows an adapter, and

[0184] FIG. 20 schematically shows a smart tank system, wherein a further adapter is connected to three smart tanks

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0185] In particular, FIG. 1 schematically shows a smart tank assembly 1′ in a disassembled state. The smart tank assembly 1′ is adapted to be assembled to a smart tank 1 (as e.g. shown in FIG. 2). The smart tank assembly 1′ comprises a top plate element 100, at least one sidewall element 200, 210, 220, and a bottom plate element 300. As depicted, the smart tank assembly 1′ of FIG. 1 comprises three sidewall elements 200, 210, 220.

[0186] The top plate element 100, the sidewall elements 200, 210, 220 and the bottom plate element 300 can be assembled to form a reservoir 500 for receiving at least one biochemical and/or operating medium.

[0187] At least one of the top plate element 100, the sidewall elements 200, 210, 220 and the bottom plate element 300 comprises at least one channel, for guiding the at least one biochemical medium and/or an operating medium. The channel may be associated with a valve that allows to open/close the channel. The valve may also be a flow control valve, that allows to control the flow through the channel. The channel may further comprise a port, such as an inlet and/or outlet port.

[0188] The smart tank assembly 1′ may comprise at least one sealing member 1020 for providing a sealed connection between the elements (top plate element 100, sidewall elements 200, 210, 220 and bottom plate element 300). The sealing member 1020 may be arranged circumferentially at each sidewall element 200, 210, 220, top plate element 100 and/or bottom plate element 300. When the elements are assembled to form the reservoir 500, the sealing member 1020 may be compressed, so as to provide a retaining force that acts on assembly-connecting means 70 and corresponding assembly-connecting means 72. Thereby, a self-retaining engagement may be provided.

[0189] Each of the elements (top plate element 100, sidewall elements 200, 210, 220 and bottom plate element 300) may be adapted to be provided with a sensor 1010 and/or a sensor module 1000. A sensor module 1000 may comprise multiple sensors, such as at least one of a pH sensor, a temperature sensor, a dissolved oxygen sensor, a biomass sensor, a foam sensor, a pressure sensor, a flow sensor, an O2 sensor, a N2 sensor, a CO2 sensor, and spectroscopy means, such as RAMAN, NIR and/or UV spectroscopy means. The sensor module may be connectable to the respective top plate element 100, sidewall element 200, 210, 220 and/or bottom plate element 300. The sensor module 1000 may be provided with a power source such as a rechargeable battery, that allows to operate the sensor module 1000 autonomously. Further, the sensor module 1000 may comprise a data interface, particularly a wireless data interface for transferring the measured sensor data to a respective control or storing unit.

[0190] FIG. 2 shows a smart tank 1 in an assembled state. This smart tank may serve for storing and/or transporting a biochemical medium. The shown smart tank comprises a top plate element 100, three sidewall elements 200, 210, and a bottom plate element 300. The top plate element, the sidewall elements and the bottom plate element are arranged to form a reservoir for receiving at least one biochemical medium.

[0191] The smart tank 1 comprises further channels 20, 21, 22, 23 for guiding the at least one biochemical medium and/or an operating medium. The channels extend within at least one of the top plate element 100, the sidewall elements 200, 210 and/or the bottom plate element 300. At least one of the channels extends within the top plate element 100 and at least one of the at least one sidewall element and/or the bottom plate element.

[0192] For example channel 21 extends in the sidewall element 200 and the top plate element 100. Other channels may be provided that extend in the at least one sidewall element and at least one of the top plate element and the bottom plate element. Each of the channels may be at least one of the following channel types: An inlet channel, for guiding a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium to the reservoir of the smart tank. An outlet channel, for removing a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium from the reservoir of the smart tank. A retentate channel, for transferring a retentate back into the smart tank or out of the smart tank. A bypass-channel, for guiding a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium, wherein the bypass-channel is not connected to the reservoir of the smart tank. Alternatively, the bypass-channel can be adapted to be fluidically separated from the reservoir of the smart tank, e.g. by means of a valve. A heating or cooling channel for guiding a tempered heating or cooling medium. A sampling channel, for taking a sample of biochemical medium and/or of operating medium from the reservoir of the smart tank. Particularly, the smart tank may comprise multiple channels of different channel-types and/or the same channel type.

[0193] In the smart tank shown in FIG. 2, channel 20 serves as outlet channel, particularly for removing waste. Channel 22 can be either an inlet or an outlet channel. This channel 22 enters the reservoir at a bottom side of the smart tank (i.e. near the bottom plate element). Channel 22′ can also be either an inlet or an outlet channel. This channel 22 enters the reservoir at a top side of the smart tank (i.e. near the top plate element). Channel 21 is a bypass-channel, that allows guiding a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium, via the smart tank, without entering the reservoir of the smart tank. Channels 28, 28′ and 28″ are not connected to the reservoir and may serve as cooling and/or heating channels.

[0194] Channels 21, 22 and 22′ meet each other at a channel junction 25. This channel junction is provided with at least one (in the embodiment shown with two) valves 50′, 50″. These valves 50′, 50″ are actuatable from the outside of the smart tank, by means of an actuating means 52′, 52″. The actuating means 52′, 52″ are provided in form of actuation rods. Channel 20 is associated with a respective valve 50 which can be actuated from the outside of the smart tank, by means of actuating means 52.

[0195] Further, the smart tank 1 comprises ports 30, 32. The ports are each associated with respective channel(s). The ports may be chosen from a group of port-types, comprising the following port-types: a fluid inlet port, a gas inlet port, a fluid outlet port, a gas outlet port, a cell bleed port, a medium supply port, a medium remove port, an element-interconnecting port, and a tank-interconnecting port.

[0196] For example, port 32 is associated via valves 52′, 52″ with channels 21, 22 and 22′. Accordingly, this port 32 may serve as fluid inlet port, gas inlet port, fluid outlet port, gas outlet port, medium supply port, medium remove port, or tank-interconnecting port. Chanel 20, which serves as outlet channel is associated with an outlet port (not shown) on a bottom side of the bottom plate element 300.

[0197] Particularly, all sides of the smart tank (or at least some of the sides) may provide the same port interface. I.e. ports are arranged at the same position. Thus, a smart tank can be easily interconnected to a further smart tank (cf. e.g. FIG. 9). Further, all side wall elements of a smart tank may be identically structured. Thus, the number of different elements required for setting up a smart tank is reduced.

[0198] FIG. 3A schematically shows a smart tank 1 comprising connector means 60, 62. The connector means 60, 62 are provided at a top plate element 100 of the smart tank 1. Alternatively, connector means may be provided at the top plate element 100, the at least one side wall element 200 and/or at the bottom plate element 300. The at least one connector means 60, 62 serves for interconnecting the smart tank 1 with a further smart tank 2 (cf. FIG. 3C). In a further configuration, the connector means may provide a fluidical connection and may further be adapted for interconnecting the smart tank fluidically with a further smart tank without using a hose. Particularly, the connector means may comprise a sealing member, that allows to seal the connection between to interconnected smart tanks. The sealing member may be integrally formed (e.g. using 2K-injection moulding) and/or may be assembled.

[0199] The smart tank of FIG. 3A comprises a latching connector means 60 (cf. FIG. 3B), which is configured to latch with an inter-latching connector means 64 (cf. FIG. 3D). This inter-latching connector means 64 is adapted to latch with a latching connector means 62 of a further smart tank 2. Thereby smart tank 1 is directly interconnected with said further smart tank 2, via the inter-latching connector means 64.

[0200] The connector means 60, 62 may be a protruding connector means, as shown in FIG. 3B. Optionally, this protruding connector means is provided in a recess to be protected, e.g. during transport, from being damaged.

[0201] FIG. 4 schematically shows a sidewall element 200, having assembly-connecting means 70 and corresponding assembly-connecting means 72. The assembly-connecting means 70 are provided in form of protrusions that can engage with corresponding recesses, being provided on a further element, such as a further sidewall element, a top plate element and/or a bottom plate element. The corresponding assembly-connecting means 72 are provided in form of recesses that can engage with corresponding protrusions, being provided on a further element, such as a further sidewall element, a top plate element and/or a bottom plate element. The assembly-connecting means 70 and corresponding assembly-connecting means 72 are preferably equally distributed along the assembly connection faces 700, 720 that are in contact with corresponding assembly connection faces of a further element, when the smart tank is assembled.

[0202] Further, the sidewall element 200 may comprise at least one sealing member (not shown) for providing a sealed connection between the sidewall element and a further element, such as a top plate element 100, a further sidewall element 210, 220 and/or a bottom plate element 300. The sealing member may be arranged circumferentially at the sidewall element. When the elements are assembled to form the reservoir, the sealing member may be compressed, so as to provide a retaining force that acts on the assembly-connecting means 70 and/or the corresponding assembly-connecting means 72. Thereby, a self-retaining engagement can be provided.

[0203] As shown in FIG. 3A, the smart tank 1 may comprise assembly reinforcement means 76 for reinforcing the assembly of the top plate element 100, at least one of the sidewall elements 200, 210, 220 and/or the bottom plate element 300 of the smart tank. The assembly reinforcement means 76 may include a threaded means (not shown), such as a threaded rod, a strap 76 and/or a belt (not shown). The assembly reinforcement means 76 improve the tightness of the reservoir of the smart tank. Thus, leakage can be prevented.

[0204] Further, the sidewall element 200 may comprise a receptacle 1030, for receiving a sensor module 1000 or at least one sensor 1010. Particularly, the receptacle 1030, the sensor module 1000 and/or the at least one sensor 1010, may comprise a sealing member, that allows to seal the connection between sidewall element 200 and the sensor/sensor module. The sealing member may be integrally formed (e.g. using 2K-injection moulding) and/or may be assembled.

[0205] FIG. 5 schematically shows a sidewall element 200, comprising channels 20, 22, 24. Those channels meet each other at a channel junction. This channel junction may be provided with a valve 50 for controlling the fluid flow. Channel 20 is associated with a port 30 that is provided on an inner surface of the sidewall element. Channel 22 is associated with a port 32 that is provided on an outer surface of the sidewall element. Channel 24 is associated with a port 34 that is provided on an assembly connection face 720. This port 34 serves as an element-interconnecting port (cf. also FIG. 6). The channels 20, 22, 24 form an inner lumen of the sidewall element that extends in the sidewall element and that is adapted to guide a flow of a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium. Particularly, the channels 20, 22, 24 are integrally formed with the sidewall element.

[0206] The sidewall element 200 of FIG. 5 comprises a first sidewall portion 200a and a second sidewall portion 200b. The first sidewall portion 200a and the second sidewall portion 200b enclose an angle α. Here, the angle α is about 90°. Thus, when assembled, the reservoir has a substantial rectangular cross-section, when seen from the top plate element side. Other angles, such as about 120° or about 135° are also possible. Accordingly, the assembled reservoir would then have a substantially hexagonal or octagonal cross-section, when seen from the top plate element side. As shown, the first sidewall portion 200a extends laterally farther than the second sidewall portion 200b. Thus, stability of the reservoir can be improved. Further, the inner edge formed by the first sidewall portion 200a and the second sidewall portion 200b is provided in form of a rounded edge.

[0207] FIG. 6 schematically shows a bottom plate element 300 and an assembled side wall element 200. The sidewall element 200 comprises a first channel portion 20b and the bottom element a second channel portion 20a. The channel portions 20a, 20b are associated with a respective element-interconnecting port that includes a channel-connecting means. The channel-connecting means 82 is associated the first channel portion 20b. A corresponding channel-connecting means 80 is associated the second channel portion 20a.

[0208] The channel-connecting means 82 and the corresponding channel-connecting means 80 are configured to engage with each other, so as to form a fluidically sealed channel connection, between the first channel portion 20b and the second channel portion 20a. Both channel portions form a channel 20.

[0209] The corresponding channel-connecting means 80 comprises a protruding shroud that at least partially surrounds the end of the associated second channel portion 20a. The shroud is concentrically arranged around a channel end of the associated channel portion 20a. The channel-connecting means 82 comprises a recess, that at least partially surrounds the end of the associated channel portion 20b. The recess is concentrically arranged around the channel end of the associated second channel portion 20b. The channel-connecting means 82 and the corresponding channel-connecting means 80 may be formed to provide a positive locking. Particularly, the channel-connecting means 82 and the corresponding channel-connecting means 80 may include a quick-connector means. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the sidewall element comprises a channel-connecting means 82. The bottom plate element comprises a corresponding channel-connecting means 80. This allows to couple the elements to form the reservoir of the smart tank and thereby to fluidically connect the respective channel portions 20a, 20b of the elements to form a connected channel 20, when assembling the smart tank. Thus, a medium can be guided though the channel 20 formed in at least two elements of the smart tank.

[0210] The channel-connecting means 82 and/or the corresponding channel-connecting means 80 may include a sealing member (not shown). Said sealing member may be a radial and/or an axial sealing member. For example, the sealing member may be provided on a shroud and/or within a recess of the channel-connecting means/corresponding channel-connecting means.

[0211] The element (top plate element, sidewall element and/or bottom plate element) may comprise multiple channel-connecting means and/or the corresponding channel-connecting means to provide a channel-connecting interface that allows to easily assemble the smart tank. The channel-connecting interface may be configured to allow assembly of different elements. For example, a sidewall element may be assembled with a top plate element or a further sidewall element, using the same channel-connecting interface.

[0212] The channel-connecting means and the respective channel portions may be arranged to built a channel, that is adapted to guide a medium multiple times through an element (e.g. a side wall element) of the smart tank. This channel may be used as a heating or cooling channel and is configured to provide a uniformly tempered surface of the respective element.

[0213] FIG. 7 schematically shows a top plate element 100 that comprises a valve 50 for opening/closing channel 20. The valve 50 is a mechanical valve that is configured to be actuatable from the outside of the smart tank, by means of an actuating means 52. The actuating means 52 is provided in form of an actuation rod that can be actuated from the outside of the smart tank, e.g. by a handling manipulator. For opening/closing the channel, the actuating means 52 can be rotated or axially displaced, depending on the type of associated valve. The actuating means may be supported in an adaptor plate element 600 that can be installed on top of the top plate. The adaptor plate element may cover a filter 40 and/or a port 30 at least partially. Thus, operating and/or biochemical medium can be guided to the smart tank via the filter 40.

[0214] Generally, all channels and/or reservoirs of the smart tank may be configured to be self-emptying. I.e. medium that has entered the channel and/or reservoir can flow out of the respective channel and/or reservoir by gravitation.

[0215] FIG. 8 schematically shows smart tanks 1, 2, 3, having different volumes. To provide different volumes, it is possible to provide different kinds of sidewall elements. Thus, different volumes can be provided, using the same top plate element and bottom plate elements.

[0216] Further, different volumes can be provided by stacking multiple sidewall elements 202, 202′; 203, 203′, 203″. As shown in FIG. 8, smart tank 1 comprises sidewall elements 200 that are all arranged in the same level of the smart tank 1. This smart tank has the following stack of elements: bottom plate element 300 / side wall element 200 / top plate element 100.

[0217] Smart tanks 2 and 3 comprises multiple sidewall elements 202, 202′; 203, 203′, 203″, wherein the groups of side wall elements are arranged in different levels of the smart tank. Smart tank 2 has the following element stack: bottom plate element 302 /side wall element 202′ / sidewall element 202 / top plate element 102 and smart tank 3 has the following element stack: bottom plate element 303 / side wall element 203″ / side wall element 203′ / sidewall element 203 / top plate element 103.

[0218] As described above, channel portions extending in the respective sidewall elements are interconnected with corresponding channel portions in the neighboring element (sidewall element, bottom plate element or top plate element). Likewise, actuating means for actuating a valve and/or for driving a stirring means and/or the like that are provided in the sidewall element(s) may be coupled to corresponding actuating means of a neighboring element. Thus, a valve or the like provided e.g. in sidewall element 202′ or 203″ can be actuated from the top side of the smart tank.

[0219] As shown, the height dimension of the first smart tank 1 is smaller than a height dimension of the second smart tank 2 and the third smart tank 3. To provide the top plate elements 100, 102 and 103 on substantially the same height, a height compensation means 1100, 1102 can be provided. For example, the height compensation means may comprise a telescope mechanism or a folding mechanism for adjusting the height of the height compensation means. Said height compensation means 1100, 1102 is adapted to be coupled to the smart tank 1, 2 and allows to install the top plate element 100 of the first smart tank 1, the top plate element 102 of the second smart tank 2 and in substantially the same height as the top plate element 103 of the third smart tank 3. Thus, interconnection of the smart tanks is facilitated.

[0220] FIG. 9A schematically shows a smart tank system that comprises multiple smart tanks 1, 2, 3. The smart tanks are directly interconnected with each other. At least one of the one or more channels 21a of the first smart tank 1 is fluidically connected to a respective channel 21b of the second smart tank 2 which can be connected to a respective channel 21C of the third smart tank. Depending on the position of the valves 50a, 50b and/or 50c. Medium can be e.g. transferred from the first smart tank to the second smart tank or the third smart tank. When transferring medium to the third smart tank medium can either be guided through the reservoir of the second smart tank or medium can bypass the reservoir of the second smart tank.

[0221] FIG. 9B schematically shows a further smart tank system. The smart tank system comprises two smart tanks, a larger smart tank 1 and a smaller small tank 4. The smaller smart tank 4 is provided on top of the larger smart tank 1. The smaller smart tank 4 can be provided on top of the larger smart tank 1 by using the handling manipulator (not shown). The handling manipulator may comprise a gripping device that is adapted to grip the smaller smart tank and to put it on top of the larger smart tank 1. Both smart tanks may be fluidically connected, via a channel or port (not shown). The channel or port may comprise a sterile filter, allowing to transfer medium from the smaller smart tank to the larger smart tank without contaminating the larger smart tank. The fluid connection may be controlled by a valve that is preferably operable by at least one handling manipulator. The smaller smart tank may serve to provide an operating medium and/or a biochemical medium to the larger smart tank. As the smaller smart tank 4 is installed on top of the larger smart tank 1, it is possible to transfer medium from the smaller smart tank to the larger smart tank by using gravitation. Alternatively, medium can be transferred by providing a positive pressure to the smaller smart tank and/or by providing a negative pressure to the larger smart tank. Further, the smaller smart tank may be provided outside the clean room bag, wherein the larger smart tank may be provided within the clean room bag.

[0222] FIG. 10 schematically shows a flow diagram of a method 2000 for assembling a smart tank. The method comprises the following steps: providing 2100 a top plate element; providing 2200 at least one sidewall element; providing 2300 a bottom plate element and assembling 2400 the top plate element, at least one sidewall element, and a bottom plate element to form a reservoir for receiving at least one biochemical medium.

[0223] FIG. 11 schematically shows a smart tank. This smart tank may serve for transporting and storing a biochemical medium. The smart tank comprises a stirring means 90. The smart tank shown in FIG. 11 corresponds to the smart tank described with respect to FIG. 2, wherein two sidewall elements are removed. To allow a view inside the reservoir 500 of the smart tank. The inner surface 510 of the reservoir may be coated e.g. by a glass coating.

[0224] The stirring means 90 comprises at least one stirring member 91, wherein the stirring member comprises multiple stirring blades. Further, the stirring means comprises an actuating rod 92. Said actuating rod 92 is supported and sealed in the top plate element 100 of the smart tank. The actuating rod is engageable with a drive mechanism (not shown), such as an electric drive mechanism, provided on the outside of the smart tank. The drive mechanism may be part of a handling manipulator (not shown) that allows automated control of the smart tank and/or a smart tank system.

[0225] Further, in the lower portion of sidewall element 200, two outlet ports 36, 38 are shown that are associated with channels 20, 22, respectively (cf. FIG. 2). Ports 36, 38 may also serve as inlet ports.

[0226] FIG. 12 schematically shows a further smart tank. Said smart tank may serve as a bioreactor, e.g. for growing and/or cultivating cells. This smart tank comprises a filter 45, provided with in the reservoir 500. The filter separates the reservoir 500 in two parts, a permeate side below the filter and a retentate side, above the filter.

[0227] The filter 45 may be a membrane filter that is supported by at least one rigid support structure, such as a support grating or mesh. The membrane may be a plastic membrane, preferably with homogeneous pores (i.e. not funnel-shaped). Thus, when cultivating cells, the cells do not penetrate the membrane but are retained on the surface. The membrane may comprise at least one of the following materials: PC, PET, PES, PVDF, CA, RC, or the like. The pore size of the membrane may be in a range of about 0.8 .Math.m to 2 .Math.m, preferably in a range of about 0.8 .Math.m to 1.2 .Math.m. This pore size allows to retain cells. The solvent of the cell solution can be collected on a permeate side of the filter and transferred back to the reservoir. Thus, it can be reused.

[0228] Moreover, the pore size may be in a range of about 0.1 .Math.m to 0.8 .Math.m. This pore size allows to retain mycoplasma and/or viruses.

[0229] Further, the pore size may be in a range of about 100 .Math.m to 300 .Math.m. This pore size allows to retain micro carriers. Depending on the application, different pore sizes may be used. Further, the pore size may be smaller than 0.1 .Math.m.

[0230] For removing retentate (e.g. cells) out of the smart tank, an outlet channel 27 is provided in the sidewall element 200, that is in fluidic communication with the retentate side. Said outlet channel may be associated with a cell bleed port. Via the cell bleed port, cells may be transferred to a further smart tank, e.g. a bio reactor smart tank, and/or the cells may be discarded.

[0231] Further, for removing permeate/filtrate out of the smart tank, an outlet channel 26 is provided in the sidewall element 200, that is in fluidic communication with the permeate/filtrate side. The outlet channel 26 may be opened to an outlet port (not shown), via valve 56. A further channel 29 is provided that meets the outlet channel 26 and the outlet channel 27 at a channel junction. A valve 57 is associated with said channel junction. Depending on the position of valves 56, 57 permeate and/or retentate can be guided to the outlet port, or to channel 29 for e.g. being transferred to a further smart tank. Likewise, filtrate and/or retained medium can be guided to the outlet port, or to channel 29 for e.g. being transferred to a further smart tank. Further, a channel 29′ may serve to guide an operating medium, such as pressured air directly to the permeate side/filtrate side. Thus, the filter can be flushed and retentate can be transferred back into the reservoir (retentate side, upstream side) and/or permeate can be urged from a permeate side of the filter back into the reservoir and/or to a further smart tank. Respectively, filtrate can be urged from a filtrate side of the filter back into the reservoir and/or to a further smart tank.

[0232] The smart tank of FIG. 12 also comprises a stirring means 90, having two stirring members 91a, 91b. As described with respect to FIG. 11, the stirring means 90 comprises an actuating rod 92, wherein the stirring means 90 can be actuated via the actuating rod 92. In particular, the stirring means 90 may be operated in a pulsed mode. Thereby waves are created that allow to clean up the filter 45 from the retentate side. Further, for controlling the filtering, pressurized air can be provided to the retentate side, e.g. by gas inlet port 35′. The gas inlet port may be covered by a filter, such as a sterile filter to provide sterile pressurized air to the smart tank. Port 35 may serve to provide further biochemical and/or operating medium to the reservoir of the smart tank. Each port may be associated with a respective filter.

[0233] Further, biochemical medium (gaseous and/or fluidic) may be supplied to the reservoir of the smart tank by means of a sparger 1300. The sparger may be provided as ring sparger.

[0234] FIG. 13 schematically shows an even further smart, comprising filter cartridges 1040a, 1040b, 1040c. This smart tank may be used for sterile filtering. The first filter cartridge 1040a may comprise a prefilter and the following filter cartridges 1040b, 1040c respective sterile filters. The filter cartridges are sidewall elements and each of the filter cartridges forms with the top plate element 100 and the bottom plate element 300 a respective reservoir. The filter cartridges 1040a, 1040b, 1040 can be connected via a channel network 1200, comprising multiple channels 20 and valves 50. The channels and valves are arranged so that medium can be transferred to the filter cartridges 1040a, 1040b, 1040c serially or parallelly. In particular, by choosing respective positions of the valves of the channel network 1200 the flow of the medium can be guided through the filter cartridges as required. For example, medium can be fed back to filter cartridges 1400a after having serially passed all three filter cartridges 1040a, 1040b, 1040c. Further, the channel network 1200 and corresponding valves allow to provide integrity testing of each of the filter cartridges. In case of serially arranged filters, the pore size of the filters may decrease. Thus, a coarse filter is followed by finer filters.

[0235] FIG. 14 schematically shows a smart tank system comprising the smart tank described with respect to FIG. 13. This smart tank system may serve for preparing buffer solutions and/or media. In a first smart tank 4, a medium, such as water for injection may be provided. Via at least one inlet port 430, that is associated with a respective valve (not shown) buffer medium can be provided to said first smart tank 4 in a controlled manner. Preferably, at least one capsule (not shown) comprising said buffer medium is installed directly on top of the top plate element of the first smart tank. The buffer medium may be provided in liquid or solid form (e.g. in form of a powder, crystals, granulate, and/or the like).For transferring a solid medium to smart tank 4, a vibrating means may be provided (e.g. at a handling manipulator) that allows to control a dose of solid medium supplied to the smart tank.

[0236] The medium and the buffer medium can be mixed in the first smart tank 4 and subsequently guided to the second smart tank 3, that servers further mixing. From the second smart tank 3, the medium and the buffer medium can be transferred to a third smart tank 5. The third smart tank 5 may be the smart tank described with respect to FIG. 13. The filtered medium can then be guided to a fourth smart tank 6, which may be a bioreactor. The transfer of the medium can be achieved by a hose means 560.This configuration allows to prepare further buffer solution and/or media in the first smart tank, while previously prepared buffer solution and/or media is mixed in the second smart tank.

[0237] FIG. 15 schematically shows an even further smart tank, comprising cartridges for chromatography 1500a, 1500b, 1500c. This smart tank serves for chromatography. The cartridges for chromatography 1500a, 1500b, 1500c are sidewall elements and each of the cartridges for chromatography 1500a, 1500b, 1500c forms with the top plate element 100 and the bottom plate element 300 a respective reservoir. The cartridges for chromatography 1500a, 1500b, 1500c are connected via a channel network 1250, comprising multiple channels 20 and valves 50, 50′, 50″. The channels and valves are arranged so that medium can be transferred to the chromatography 1500a, 1500b, 1500c serially or parallelly. In particular, the valves may be controlled, that the first cartridge 1500a and the second cartridge 1500b are arranged serially. Thus, medium expelling from the first cartridge 1500a is guided to the second cartridge 1500b, without spilling any medium. While the first and second cartridges 1500a, 1500b are in loaded, the third cartridge 1500c can be eluted, washed and cleaned. After the first cartridge 1500a is filled, the second and third cartridges 1500b, 1500c can be connected in series, by opening/closing the valves respectively and the first cartridge 1500a can be eluted and cleaned. This can be repeated, so that a continuous chromatography is possible. Thus, chromatography can be carried out continuously.

[0238] A smart tank may use multiple cartridges for chromatography, such as at least three cartridges for chromatography, preferably at least seven cartridges for chromatography or even more preferably at least 9 cartridges for chromatography.

[0239] For loading different solutions to the cartridges for chromatography, i.e. for washing, cleaning, eluding, a magazine may be provided that carries different reservoirs for each of said solutions. Each reservoir may have a respective outlet port that is arranged so that it can be connected to an inlet port, associated with a cartridge for chromatography. The inlet ports and/or outlet ports may be arranged relative to each other, that the reservoirs of the magazine may be coupled to any of the cartridges for chromatography by rotating the magazine.

[0240] Instead of a magazine that carries different reservoirs for each of said solutions, respective solution supply lines may be provided Each of the solution supply lines may have a respective outlet port that is arranged so that it can be connected to an inlet port, associated with a cartridge for chromatography. The solution supply lines and in particular the respective outlet ports may be arranged on a first body and the inlet ports may be arranged on a second body. First and second body may be rotatable with respect to each other, preferably by using a handling manipulator. Particularly, first and second body may be rotatable with respect to each other, so that each of the solution supply lines may be coupled to any of the cartridges for chromatography. Each of the solution supply lines may be coupled to a respective solution containing tank.

[0241] Preferably, the second body is fixed relative to the smart tank and the first body is arranged rotatable with respect to the second body, or vice versa.

[0242] Still further, a rotatable intermediate body may be provided that is arranged between the first and second body. The intermediate body may comprise intermediate channels that are suited to fluidically couple any one of the outlet ports with any one of the inlet ports. Upon rotation of the intermediate body, each of the solution supply lines may be coupled to any of the cartridges for chromatography.

[0243] Alternatively, an intermediate rotatory coupling element may be provided that comprises channels that connect the inlet ports of the cartridges for chromatography with respective outlets of the reservoirs. By rotating a valve portion of the intermediate rotatory coupling element, the connections of the inlet ports with the outlet ports can be changed simultaneously, so that the reservoirs of the magazine may be coupled to any of the cartridges for chromatography by rotating the valve portion.

[0244] FIG. 16A schematically shows a further smart tank in a perspective top view and FIG. 16B shows a perspective bottom view of the smart tank. The smart tank comprises filter cartridges, such as a hollow fibre filter means (not shown). In particular, the smart tank comprises a channel network 1620, comprising multiple channels and valves 1650, 1653. The valves may be provided in the top plate element 100 and/or the bottom plate element 300. Valves 1650 can be operated from outside the smart tank on the top plate element side. For operating valves 1653, which are provided in the bottom plate element 300, multiple actuating rods 1670 are provided. Each actuating rod 1670 is associated with a respective valve 1653. Thus, valves 1653 can be operated from outside the smart tank on the top plate element side. The channels and valves are arranged so that medium can be transferred to the filter cartridges serially or parallelly. In particular, by choosing respective positions of the valves of the channel network 1620 the flow of the medium can be guided through the filter cartridges as required. Further, the channel network and corresponding valves allow to provide integrity testing of each of the filter cartridges.

[0245] In particular, the channel network comprises a permeate channels 1621, 1624, 1626 that is adapted to guide medium from a permeate side of the filter cartridges (i.e. from the bottom of the smart tank) to a waste channel 1623, an output port 1635 for transferring the permeate to e.g. a further smart tank, or to a recirculation channel 1622, that allows to feed back the permeate to at least one of the filter cartridges, e.g. via input channel 1625, 1627. Further, retentate may be recirculated. How the medium is guided is dependent on the position of the valves 1650, 1653. Further, for wetting the filters of the filter cartridges, e.g. prior to integrity testing, a wetting medium input port 1634 may be provided. Further, for applying operating medium, such as pressurized air to the permeate side of the filter cartridges, a operating medium input port 1630 may be provided. This operating medium input port 1630 may be covered by an air filter 1640, preferably a sterile air filter, that allows to provide sterile pressurized air to the permeate side of the filter cartridges. In other words, in the smart tank shown, pressurized air can be guided to the permeate channels of the bottom plate element.

[0246] FIG. 17 schematically shows a further smart tank in a cut view. This may be the smart tank of FIGS. 16A and 16B. The smart tank comprises filter cartridges 1700a, 1700b, 1700c, such as a hollow fibre filter means. The filter cartridges are sidewall elements and each of the filter cartridges forms with the top plate element 100 and the bottom plate element 300 a respective reservoir 500a, 500b, 500c. Each of the filter cartridges 1700a, 1700b, 1700c includes a filter 1740a, 1740b, 1740c, that divides the respective reservoir in a filtrate side and a permeate side.

[0247] The filter cartridges 1700a, 1700b, 1700c are connected via a channel network 1270, comprising multiple channels 20, 21 and valves 50a, 50b, 50c. The channels and valves are arranged so that medium can be transferred to the filter cartridges 1700a, 1700b, 1700c serially or parallelly. In particular, by choosing respective positions of the valves of the channel network 1270 the flow of the medium can be guided through the filter cartridges 1700a, 1700b, 1700c as required. Further, the channel network and corresponding valves allow to provide integrity testing of each of the filter cartridges.

[0248] FIG. 18 schematically shows an even further smart tank comprising multiple crossflow cassettes 1800a to 1800i. The crossflow cassettes 1800a to 1800i are stacked and serve as sidewall elements. Together with the top plate element 100 and the bottom plate element 300 a reservoir is formed. Additionally, top plate element 100 and bottom plate element 300 are connected via press rods 1870 that allow to press the top plate element 100 and bottom plate element 300 as well as the sandwiched crossflow cassettes 1800a to 1800i together to provide a tight reservoir. The press rods 1870 may be threaded rods.

[0249] The smart tank comprises a channel network 1280, comprising input channels 1281, retentate channels 1282 and permeate channels 1283. Additionally, a waste channel 1284 may be provided. Further, valves 50 are provided. The valves can be controlled, so that permeate and/or retentate can be removed from the smart tank. Further, by controlling the valves and the pressure inside the tank, an integrity test can be performed, or the crossflow cassettes can flushed, e.g. by providing a buffer solution.

[0250] Single aspects of the smart tank elements, smart tanks and smart tanks systems described above, can be combined to form further smart tank elements, smart tanks and smart tanks systems having combined functionalities.

[0251] FIG. 19 schematically shows an adapter 3000 which may interconnect at least two smart tanks (as e.g. shown in FIG. 20). The adapter 3000 comprises at least one channel 3001 guiding at least one of a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium. The at least one channel 3001 may be further configured as described above with reference to the smart tank (cf. also embodiment 3, below).

[0252] Further, the depicted adapter 3000 comprises a fluidic module 3030. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 19, the fluidic module 3030 is a hollow fiber filter. In further embodiments the adapter 3000 can comprise at least one (i.e. also multiple) fluidic module(s) 3030. The at least one fluidic module 3030 may be at least one of the following: a crossflow cassette, a crossflow hollow fiber module, a hollow fiber filter, a resin capsule, a filter capsule, and/or a magnetic tube. It is to be understood, that the adapter may include multiple fluidic modules of the same type and/or of different types. Further, it is to be understood, that the at least one channel 3001 may be at least partially arranged in the at least one fluidic module 3030, in particular in a capsule of the fluidic module.

[0253] Further, the at least one fluidic module 3030 may be replaceable. Thus, maintenance may be facilitated. Particularly, the at least one fluidic module 3030 may be replaceable by another type of fluidic module 3030. Thus, the functionality of the adapter 3000 may be adapted with reduced effort. Further, the at least one fluidic module may be replaceable by the same type of fluidic module. Thus, e.g. a consumed filter can be easily replaced.

[0254] Moreover, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the adapter 3000 comprises a port 3002, a filter 3003, a valve 3004 and a sensor 3005. In further embodiments, the adapter may comprise at least one (i.e. also multiple) of the following: a port 3002, a filter 3003, a valve 3004, a sensor 3005 and/or any other kind of operating means. Said operating means (port 3002, filter 3003, valve 3004 and sensor 3005) may be further configured as already described with reference to the smart tank. Moreover, said at least one port 3002 may be adapted to be connectable to at least one corresponding port of at least one smart tank and/or another adapter. Further, the adapter may be adapted to allow a horizontal and/or vertical arrangement of the adapter relative to a horizontal base surface. Particularly, the at least one port 3002 may be adapted to allow a vertical arrangement of the adapter relative to a horizontal base surface. Particularly, at least two ports may be configured to allow a connection of the top plate element of a first smart tank to the bottom plate element of a second smart tank by means of the adapter.

[0255] The adapter 3000 shown in FIG. 19 comprises three adapter units, a first side adapter unit 3010a, a second side adapter unit 3010b and a middle adapter unit 3020. The middle adapter unit 3020 is arranged between the first and second side adapter units 3010a, 3010b. Said adapter units may be connected by means of click connections. Thus, the adapter units may be separate adapter units and interconnectable to form the adapter. Further, the at least two adapter units (or all adapter units) forming the adapter may be integrally formed. In further embodiments, the number of side adapter units and/or middle adapter units may be different. For example, the length of the adapter and/or the number of fluidic modules may be adjustable by choosing the number of side and/or middle adapter units.

[0256] The adapter 3000 may have a telescopic functionality and/or may be provided in different sizes. Preferably, the telescopic functionality is provided by the middle adapter unit 3020. This may be beneficial to adapt the distance between the side adapter units 3010. Thus, the adapter may be adapted to fluidic modules 3030 with different lengths. Thus, the flexibility of the adapter 3000 may be increased.

[0257] FIG. 20 schematically shows an adapter 3000 which is connected to three smart tanks 1, 2,3. The adapter 3000 comprises two fluidic modules 3020a, 3020b. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 20, the two fluidic modules 3020a, 3020b are filters, each comprising a capsule. The connection of the smart tanks 1, 2, 3 to the fluidic modules 3020a, 3020b is achieved by means of the adapter 3000, particularly via at least one of the first side adapter unit, the second side adapter unit and/or the middle adapter unit.

[0258] In FIG. 20, the adapter is attached to the top plate elements 100a, 100b, 100c of the smart tanks 1, 2, 3. In further embodiments, the adapter 3000 may be attached to the top plate element, the at least one sidewall element and/or the bottom plate element of a respective smart tank.

[0259] Further, the at least one adapter may allow an integrity test as already described with respect to the smart tank, above. Moreover, assembly, operation, fluidic connection and/or disassembly of the adapter with the at least one smart tank may be performed manually and/or with the aid of a respective handling manipulator. It is to be understood that assembly, operation, fluidic connection and/or disassembly of the at least one smart tank with at least one further smart tank may be performed manually and/or with the aid of a respective handling manipulator.

FURTHER EMBODIMENTS

[0260] Embodiment 1: A smart tank 1 for a bio-pharma process line, the smart tank comprising: [0261] a top plate element 100, at least one sidewall element 200, 210, 220, and a bottom plate element 300, wherein [0262] the top plate element, the at least one sidewall element and the bottom plate element are arranged to form at least one reservoir 500 for receiving at least one biochemical medium; [0263] the smart tank 1 comprises further [0264] at least one channel 20, 21, 22, 23, for guiding the at least one biochemical medium and/or an operating medium, wherein the at least one channel extends within at least one of the top plate element, the at least one sidewall element and/or the bottom plate element.

[0265] Embodiment 2: The smart tank 1 of embodiment 1, wherein the at least one channel 20, 21, 22, 23 extends in the at least one sidewall element 200, 210, 220 and at least one of the top plate element 100 and the bottom plate element 300.

[0266] Embodiment 3: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, wherein the at least one channel 20, 21, 22, 23 is chosen from a group of channel-types, comprising the following channel types: [0267] an inlet channel, for guiding a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium to the reservoir of the smart tank, wherein the inlet channel may comprise a sparger; [0268] an outlet channel, for removing a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium from the reservoir of the smart tank; [0269] a retentate channel; [0270] a bypass-channel, for guiding a biochemical medium and/or an operating medium, wherein the bypass-channel is not connected to the reservoir of the smart tank, or wherein the bypass-channel is adapted to be fluidically separated from or connected to the reservoir of the smart tank; [0271] a heating or cooling channel for guiding a tempered heating or cooling medium; [0272] a sampling channel, for taking a sample of biochemical medium and/or of operating medium from the reservoir of the smart tank, [0273] a recirculation channel, for recirculating a medium in the smart tank, [0274] a wetting channel and/or flushing fluid channel for wetting or flushing components of the smart tank, particularly at least one filter, [0275] a product channel, for removing products from the reservoir of the smart tank; [0276] a feed channel for providing medium to the reservoir of the smart tank; [0277] a permeate or filtrate channel for removing/recirculating permeate/filtrate from the reservoir of the smart tank; [0278] a waste channel for removing waste from the reservoir of the smart tank; [0279] a cell bleed channel for harvesting cells; [0280] a cell channel for suppling, removing and/or transferring cells; [0281] a pressure channel, for pressurizing at least portions of the smart tank; [0282] a washing channel, a cleaning channel and/or eluding channel for loading different solutions to the smart tank, particularly to cartridges for chromatography, [0283] and wherein the smart tank may comprise multiple channels of different channel-types and/or the same channel type.

[0284] Embodiment 4: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, further comprising at least one port 30, 32, wherein the at least one port is associated with a respective channel 20, and wherein the port is chosen from a group of port-types, comprising the following port-types: [0285] a fluid inlet port; [0286] a gas inlet port; [0287] a fluid outlet port; [0288] a gas outlet port; [0289] a cell bleed port, [0290] a medium supply port, [0291] a medium remove port, [0292] an element-interconnecting port, and [0293] a tank-interconnecting port.

[0294] Embodiment 5: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, wherein the smart tank comprises at least one filter 40, wherein the at least one port 30 may be covered by the at least one filter 40, and wherein the filter may be chosen from a group of filter-types, comprising the following filter-types: [0295] a pre-filter; [0296] a sterile filter; [0297] a bacterial filter; [0298] a viral filter; [0299] a mycoplasma filter; [0300] an ultrafiltration filter; [0301] a diafiltration filter; [0302] a cell filter; [0303] a cell harvest filter; [0304] a fluid filter; [0305] an air filter, and [0306] a gas filter, wherein [0307] the filter covering the at least one port may be heated and/or cooled.

[0308] Embodiment 6: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, further comprising at least one valve 50, the at least one valve being associated with the at least one channel 20, wherein the valve may be a flow control valve, a cutoff valve, a pressure relief valve or a non-return valve, and wherein the valve may be a mechanical valve that is configured to be actuatable from the outside of the smart tank, by means of an actuating means 52.

[0309] Embodiment 7: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, further comprising an adaptor plate element 600, wherein the adaptor plate element 600 is mounted on the top plate element 100, and wherein the adaptor plate element 600 is configured to cover a filter 40 and/or a port 30 at least partially, and/or wherein the adaptor plate element 600 is configured to support an actuating means 52 of a valve 50.

[0310] Embodiment 8: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, further comprising at least one connector means 60, 62 for interconnecting the smart tank 1 with a further smart tank 2, wherein the connector means 60, 62 may provide a fluidical connection and may further be adapted for interconnecting the smart tank fluidically with a further smart tank without using a hose.

[0311] Embodiment 9: The smart tank 1 of the previous embodiment, wherein the connector means 60, 62 is a latching connector means, wherein the smart tank comprises a first latching connector means for directly interconnecting the smart tank with a further smart tank, which comprises a corresponding latching connector means, and/or wherein

[0312] the smart tank comprises a second latching connector means, which is configured to latch with an inter-latching connector means 64, that is adapted to latch with a second latching connector means 62 of a further smart tank 2, so that the smart tank 1 can be directly interconnected with said further smart tank 2, via the inter-latching connector means 64.

[0313] Embodiment 10: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, wherein the top plate element 100, the at least one sidewall element 200, 210, 220 and/or the bottom plate element 300 is formed from a plastic material, in particular by injection moulding or thermoforming, wherein top plate element, the sidewall element and/or the bottom plate element may be assembled from different sub-elements.

[0314] Embodiment 11: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, wherein the inner surface 510 of the reservoir 500 and/or the at least one channel 20 is coated, particularly with a glass-based coating.

[0315] Embodiment 12: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, wherein the smart tank is sterilizable, by means of autoclaving, ETO gas, and/or gamma radiation, prior, during or after being assembled.

[0316] Embodiment 13: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, wherein the top plate element 100, at least one of the sidewall elements 200, 210, 220 and/or the bottom plate element 300 comprises at least one assembly-connecting means 70 and/or at least one corresponding assembly-connecting means 72, wherein

[0317] the assembly-connecting means 70 and the corresponding assembly-connecting means 72 are configured to engage with each other, so as to secure an assembly of at least two adjacent elements, chosen from the group of top plate element 100, one or more sidewall elements 200, 210, 220 and bottom plate element 300, wherein the engagement of the assembly-connecting means 70 and the corresponding assembly-connecting means 72 may be a self-retaining engagement.

[0318] Embodiment 14: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, wherein the smart tank comprises multiple side-wall elements 200, 210, 220, wherein [0319] the top plate element 100, the sidewall elements 200, 210, 220 and the bottom plate element 300 are arranged to form the reservoir 500, wherein [0320] at least one of the sidewall elements 200, 210, 220 and in particular each one of the multiple sidewall elements 200, 210, 220 comprises a first sidewall portion 200a and a second sidewall portion 200b, wherein the first sidewall portion 200a and the second sidewall portion 200b enclose an angle α, wherein the angle α is about 90° or about 120° or about 135°, so that the reservoir 500 has a substantial rectangular, hexagonal or octagonal cross-section, when seen from the top plate element side, wherein [0321] the first sidewall portion 200a may extend laterally farther than the second sidewall portion 200b, and wherein [0322] the inner edge formed by the first sidewall portion and the second sidewall portion, may be a rounded edge.

[0323] Embodiment 15: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, wherein

[0324] the at least one the sidewall element 200, 210, 220 and in particular each one of the sidewall elements 200, 210, 220 is a curved sidewall element when seen from the top plate element side, so that the reservoir 500 has a substantial circular or oval cross-section, when seen from the top plate element side.

[0325] Embodiment 16: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, wherein [0326] any one of the top plate element 100, the at least one sidewall element 200, 210, 220 and/or the bottom plate element 300 comprises at least one first channel portion 20a and a at least one channel-connecting means 80 being associated with a respective first channel portion 20a, and wherein [0327] a different one of the top plate element 100, the at least one sidewall element 200, 210, 220, a further side wall element 200, 210, 220 and/or the bottom plate element 300 comprises at least one second channel portion 20b and a at least one corresponding channel-connecting means 82 being associated with a respective second channel portion 20b, wherein [0328] the channel-connecting means 80 and the corresponding channel-connecting means 82 are configured to engage with each other, so as to form a fluidically sealed channel connection, between the first channel portion 20a and the second channel portion 20b, so as to form the at least one channel 20.

[0329] Embodiment 17: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, wherein the smart tank further comprises at least one of the following: [0330] a pumping means, wherein the pumping means may be separated from the reservoir and/or the at least one channel by a flexible membrane, so as to prevent direct contact between the at least one biochemical medium and the pumping means; [0331] a stirring means 90, wherein the stirring means may be driveable from the outside of the smart tank; [0332] a blending means, such as a fluid deflection plate, which may be integrally formed with either one of the sidewall elements, the top plate element and/or the bottom plate element; [0333] a cell-harvest-means; [0334] at least one cartridge for chromatography 1500a, 1500b, 1500c; [0335] a cross-flow- cassette; [0336] a filter cartridge 1400a, 1400b, 1400c, [0337] a resin means, [0338] a hollow-fibre means 1700a, 1700b, 1700c; [0339] a rupture disc and/or [0340] a bag, wherein the bag may line the inner wall of the reservoir.

[0341] Embodiment 18: The smart tank 1 of any previous embodiment, wherein the smart tank is connectable to at least one sensor 1010 or a sensor module 1000, comprising multiple sensors 1010, wherein the at least one sensor and the sensors of the sensor module are chosen from the group of [0342] pH sensor, [0343] temperature sensor, [0344] dissolved oxygen sensor, [0345] biomass sensor, [0346] foam sensor, [0347] pressure sensor, [0348] flow sensor, [0349] O2 sensor, [0350] N2 sensor, [0351] CO2 sensor, and [0352] spectroscopy means, such as RAMAN, NIR and/or UV spectroscopy means.

[0353] Embodiment 19: Smart tank assembly 1′ adapted to be assembled to a smart tank 1 according to any one of embodiments 1 to 18, wherein the smart tank assembly 1′ comprises [0354] a top plate element 100, at least one sidewall element 200, 210, 220, and a bottom plate element 300, wherein [0355] the top plate element 100, the at least one sidewall element 200, 210, 220 and the bottom plate element 300 can be assembled to form a reservoir 500 for receiving at least one biochemical medium, wherein [0356] at least one of the top plate element 100, the at least one sidewall element 200, 210, 220 and the bottom plate element 300 comprises [0357] at least one channel 20, for guiding the at least one biochemical medium and/or an operating medium.

[0358] Embodiment 20: A smart tank system, comprising multiple smart tanks 1, 2, 3, according to any one of the previous embodiments 1 to 18, wherein [0359] a first smart tank 1 is interconnectable with a second smart tank 2 by at least one connector means 60, when the second smart tank 2 is arranged directly adjacent to the first smart tank 1, and wherein [0360] at least one of the one or more channels 20, 21, 22 of the first smart tank 1 is fluidically connected to a respective channel of the second smart tank 2, when the first smart tank is interconnected with the second smart tank 2.

[0361] Embodiment 21: The smart tank system according to embodiment 20, wherein [0362] a height dimension of the first smart tank 1 is smaller than a height dimension of the second smart tank 2, and wherein [0363] the smart tank system comprises at least one height compensation means 1100, 1102 that is adapted to be coupled to the first smart tank 1, so that the top plate element 100 of the first smart tank 1 is installed in substantially the same height as the top plate element 102 of the second smart tank 2, when the height compensation means 1100, 1102 is coupled to the first smart tank 1.

[0364] Embodiment 22: The smart tank system according to any one of embodiments 20 or 21, wherein

[0365] a volume of the first smart tank 1 is smaller than a volume of the second smart tank .sub.2, wherein the first smart tank is adapted to be installed on top of the second smart tank.

[0366] Embodiment 23: A method 2000 for assembling a smart tank 1 according to any one of embodiments 1 to 18, wherein the method comprises the following steps: [0367] providing 2100 a top plate element; [0368] providing 2200 at least one sidewall element; [0369] providing 2300 a bottom plate element; assembling 2400 the top plate element, at least one sidewall element, and a bottom plate element to form a reservoir for receiving at least one biochemical medium.