Method and apparatus for manipulating pre-sterilized components in an active sterile field

A method for sterile filling a pre-sterilized container having a filling port with a bulk sterile fluid comprising the steps of:

• a. establishing an active sterile field;
• b. introducing the filling port of the pre-sterilized container into the active sterile field;
• c. transferring an aliquot of the bulk sterile fluid from a supply container to the pre-sterilized container through the filling port;
• and
• d. removing the filling port of the pre-sterilized container from the active sterile field.

A method for the sterile assembly of two or more pre-sterilized components together comprising the steps of:

• a. preparing at least one end of each component for assembly;
• b. sterilizing the prepared ends of each component to be assembled together within an active sterile field;
• c. bringing the prepared ends into contact with each other while in the active sterile field;
• and
• d. assembling the prepared ends together while in the active sterile field.

A system for effecting the sterile joining of at least two pre-sterilized components together comprising:

• a. an active sterile field for encompassing at least one end of each component to be joined together;
• b. a surface for supporting the ends of the pre-sterilized components within the active sterile field;
• c. a mechanism which opens the ends of the pre-sterilized components while supported by the surface in the active sterile field;
• d. a mechanism which brings the opened ends into aligned contact with each other while in the active sterile field;
• and
• e. a sealing device for bonding the opened ends together.