Sartorius Researchers Developed New Biomanufacturing Control
The nonlinear control system successfully increased cell production by 68 percent in recent digital twin experiments.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Manufacturing
Live Poll
Do you believe increased automation in industrial manufacturing generally improves quality and lowers prices for consumers?
Sartorius researchers developed a nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) system for continuous biomanufacturing on September 23, 2026. This system optimizes feed, bleed, and harvest flows to boost efficiency while maintaining cell health.
Why it matters
The technology addresses the challenge of inhibitory biomaterial accumulation by balancing stable production with economic optimization in real-time. This allows manufacturers to sustain higher output levels without compromising the necessary viable cell density.
The new NMPC system achieved a 68% increase in production during digital twin experiments. It consistently maintained viable cell density at or above 95% throughout the trial.
The players
Sartorius
Sartorius is an international pharmaceutical and laboratory equipment supplier that provides bioprocessing solutions for the life sciences industry.
The details
By utilizing a moving horizontal estimate to track unknown states and account for metabolic waste, the system dynamically manages constraints. It enables operators to switch between stable maintenance modes and an economic optimization mode that determines peak operating conditions in real-time.
Timeline
September 23, 2026: The research findings were published.
Market Landscape
The integration of NMPC systems marks a significant evolution in process automation for the biotechnology sector. This shift allows firms to maximize operational efficiency through real-time adjustments, distancing them from traditional, less adaptive manufacturing frameworks.
For the biopharmaceutical industry, this technology could lead to lower production costs and more reliable supply chains for essential biologic medicines. Subscribers to these biotech services may eventually see improved product availability due to the increased yield capabilities.
The takeaway
Advanced predictive modeling is fundamentally changing how manufacturers balance high-volume output with strict biological quality requirements. Companies implementing these digital systems can effectively reduce waste by better managing the inhibitory byproducts that naturally accumulate in long-term cell cultures.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Manufacturing.
Source note: This article includes information reported by GEN - Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News.
Live Poll
Do you believe increased automation in industrial manufacturing generally improves quality and lowers prices for consumers?
