Bronce

Flöx

Next Generation Chromatography System

Designed by Yuchen Lan, Jakob Kohnle

About the project.
Chromatography is a critical process in the production of vaccines and other pharmaceuticals. Current chromatography machines are limited by inefficient and complicated setup procedures. Flöx envisions a sustainable and streamlined future for pharmaceutical production by simplifying the operation of chromatography machines, reducing tedious steps, minimizing errors, and boosting productivity. At the heart of Flöx is its groundbreaking foldable flow kit, consisting of four main layers (two film and two rigid layers) that combine all parts into a single, easy-to-use package. The heat-molded membranes ensure a leak-proof, sterile design, while the recyclable hard shell secures the components during shipping and installation. The operator simply hangs the Flowpack on the drawer and unfolds it. The drawer then slides back into the machine, where all necessary interfaces automatically connect with a clamping mechanism.
This innovation drastically reduces tedious steps and minimizes the chance for errors, greatly simplifying the installation process. Once the Flowpack is installed, only the necessary connectors are accessible at the front. Smaller liquid containers can be attached directly to the front for low-volume production, while larger batches are placed on a cart next to the system. This design centralizes all critical elements in one spot, streamlining the workflow and reducing the required clean room space due to its smaller operational footprint. Each connector is equipped with an LED interface that clearly communicates the next steps and status to the operator. By rethinking the chromatography system from the ground up, Flöx delivers a solution that not only optimizes the entire process but also ensures more efficient and scalable production of critically needed pharmaceuticals. Its innovative design makes it a sustainable, forward-looking solution—an idea to keep for the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Jury statement.

„Flöx impressively demonstrates how the power of design can help to rethink work situations in highly specialized environments. A new chromatography system concept positioned in pharmaceutical production clean rooms demonstrates thorough problem solving through research, detailed knowledge of current pain points and offers best-in-class system and interface design connecting the machine with flow-kits, bags and carts. The product concept is well designed and presented. Congratulations!“ - Oliver Grabes

Yuchen Lan

Umeå Institute of Design, Sweden

Yuchen Lan

Jakob Kohnle

Umeå Institute of Design, Sweden

Jakob Kohnle
Flöx
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