Intro
SPuMP (Space Pharma Microgravity minituarized pump), D-Pump (Diaphragm pump) and Multiplexed Pump are new miniaturized, accurate pumping systems, developed for SpacePharma’s microgravity research activities in space. The unique features makes them a value component in other special micro-fluidics devices such as:
- Medical devices
- Point Of Care (POC) devices
- Portable analytical instruments
Unique features
- Provides accurate flow rates in range of 10-500 microliters/min
- Non-pulsating, positive displacement pumping
- Bubble-free opeation
- Built in temperature control (heating and cooling) for pump and reservoir.
- Built for harsh enviromnent
Comprehensive flow-management possibilities
The SPuMP is a 2 ml syringe pump operated by a step-motor. The syringe reservoir is temperature controlled.
Up to 4 SPuMP-s can be separately controlled from one main controller.
The D-Pump is a diaphragm pump with temperature-controlled 1.4 ml reservoir. It is hydraulically driven by a SPump, acting as an accurate hydraulic driver.
The Control board, manifold and valve systems enable independent Operation of 4 SPuMPS, each driving two D-Pumps, acting together as a Multiplexed pump, where each D-Pump is operated independently with repeating pumping-refilling
The Story
SpacePharma’s mission is to provide researchers with a simplified and valuable method for conducting microgravity research in space. The company has gained expertise in micro-fluidic flow, miniaturized systems, advanced controls and durable design for extreme conditions. It was realized that these applications call for a better, smaller and more accurate pumping system compared to commercially available devices.
Technical Details:
SPuMP- 2mL reservoir
- Smooth flow between 10μL/min and 500μL/min
- On reservoir temperature control for sensitive reagents (4⁰C to 40 ⁰C)
- Occupies about 38cc of spaceM
- Weigh: 70g
- 1.4 ml reservoir
- Smooth hydraulic operation between 10μL/min and 500μL/min (powered by SPuMP)
- Pumping-refilling cycles
- On reservoir temperature control for sensitive reagents (4⁰C to 40 ⁰C)
- Durable to various solvents and reagents.
- Up to 8 D-Pumps operated independently with different liquids, flowrates and pumping-refilling cycles.
- One controller operated by computer with simple user interface
- Voltage of 3.3, 5 or 9 Volts
Status:
- On August 2017 the development, testing and validation of the system have been completed
- The system was successfully operated in microgravity on a parabolic flight.
- Further testing for space-environment suitability will be conducted during August