 ADSEP is a fully automated, multi-use single locker processing facility for interface with middeck, SPACEHAB, or International Space Station EXPRESS racks. It has flown aboard space shuttle missions STS-77 and STS-95, during which it was operated by John Glenn.
The ADSEP biotechnology facility contains three independent thermal zones, each accommodating one cassette, and an internal computer that controls the internal functions of all three cassettes. Cassettes can house three bioseparation methods, diffusion-cell and mixing-cell capabilities, and at least two versions of cell-culturing equipment.
Modular, on-board microprocessors, video cards, and motor driver cards allow ADSEP to be configured for a variety of biotechnology and life science experiments.
There currently are several applications using the unique Techshot ADSEP cassette system:
Cell Dynamics
1. Cell Culturing (CellCult)
2. Dynamic Culturing (DynaCult)
Pharmaceutical Development
3. Microencapsulation
4. Protein Crystal Growth
Separations
5. Biphasic Separation (BISEP)
6. Electrophoretic Separation (ELECSEP)
Fluid Processing
7. C-elegans studies
8. Bacteria studies
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Three independent processing modules can either be programmed for totally automated operation or controlled via telemetry for real-time telescience and telerobotic operation. · Processing temperature can be independently monitored and controlled between 4 ° - 40°C in each of three modules.
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Accommodates up to three cassettes, each capable of processing biological samples in space.
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From half-stepped mode, ADSEP is capable of conducting up to 44 separate experiments in each cassette assembly.
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Biological samples are loaded (preflight) into cassettes that provide appropriate levels of containment.
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Processing module doors are opened with two thumb screws, allowing cassettes to be installed in, and removed from, each processing module on orbit.
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Cassette interfaces with the processing module through blind-mating power/data connector on back side of cassette.
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