Cryosphere
By designing the enclosure assembly and ball transfer device, the stable suspension and rotation of the Dewar bottles in the low-temperature storage system is achieved, which solves the problem of liquid or gas overflow and evaporation during transportation, extends the transportation life and reduces the evaporation rate.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202080091726.4
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2019-12-30
- Filing Date
- 2020-12-08
- Publication Date
- 2024-12-20
- Estimated Expiration
- 2040-12-08
AI Technical Summary
When transporting low-temperature liquids or gases, the Dewar bottles are prone to tilt or flip, causing liquids or gases to flow out and difficult to effectively prevent evaporation.
A cryogenic storage system is designed to hang the dewar with enclosure assembly and allow it to rotate freely within the system, providing frictionless or low friction surfaces through ball transfer devices and padding components, absorbing shock and vibration, and passing through passive Stability keeps the dewar upright and reduces evaporation.
It effectively prevents the overflow and evaporation of liquid or gas in the dewar bottle, extends the storage life during transportation, and reduces the evaporation rate of nitrogen.
Smart Images

Figure CN114930076B_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 16 / 730,506, filed on December 30, 2019, entitled “CRYOSPHERE”. U.S. Application No. 16 / 730,506 is a continuation-in-part application of, and claims priority to and the benefit of, U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 15 / 865,589, filed on January 9, 2018, entitled “CRYOSPHERE”, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field
[0003] The present description relates to systems, devices or apparatus for cryogenic storage, transport and / or transportation of liquids or gases below ambient temperature. Background Art
[0004] Laboratory technicians, scientists, medical professionals such as doctors or nurses, and other technicians can utilize liquids or gases for temperature control to store and transport goods at low temperatures to various facilities, such as hospitals, laboratories, and / or research facilities. During the transportation of goods, the goods are kept at cryogenic temperatures. In addition, technicians and / or professionals store goods in Dewar flasks, which are used to keep goods at refrigerated or cryogenic temperatures. Dewar flasks can take several different forms, including open barrels, bottles, and / or self-pressurized tanks. Dewar flasks can be double-walled metal or glass bottles with vacuum between the walls. This provides thermal insulation between the walls.
[0005] A technician or professional may fill the Dewar's flask with merchandise and liquid or gas and pack the Dewar's flask with shipping materials. The technician or professional then provides the package including the Dewar's flask to a shipper to transport the contents to the final destination where they are unpacked. However, liquids or gases boil slowly, so the Dewar's flask may have an opening on the top that is designed to allow the gas to escape. In addition, while in transport, the Dewar's flask may tilt or flip, which may cause the liquid or gas to flow out of the Dewar's flask.
[0006] Therefore, a system, device or apparatus is needed to protect the liquid or gas in the Dewar flask from evaporation and pouring out during transportation. Summary of the invention
[0007] Generally, one aspect of the subject matter described in this specification is embodied in a cryogenic storage system. A cryogenic storage system ("storage system") stores and / or transports liquids or gases. The storage system has a capsule assembly configured to receive a Dewar flask. The storage system has a Dewar flask positioned within the capsule assembly. The capsule assembly is configured to provide little or no friction on an outer surface of the Dewar flask as the Dewar flask rotates during transportation of the storage system. The capsule assembly is configured for shock absorption and / or vibration damping of the Dewar flask during transportation of the storage system.
[0008] These and other embodiments may optionally include one or more of the following features. The enclosure assembly may include an outer dome. The outer dome may include a plurality of ball elements disposed therein. The dewar flask may be positioned on the plurality of ball elements and only contact the ball elements during transport of the storage system. The outer dome may be placed between the first enclosure and the second enclosure. The first enclosure and the second enclosure may each be coupled to a cushioning component. The cushioning component may be configured to absorb shock and / or damp vibration.
[0009] The enclosure assembly may include various components configured to absorb shock and / or damp vibration. The enclosure assembly may include a cushion component, a mesh assembly, a mesh and spring assembly, a support tube assembly including a support tube with nitrogen, and the like.
[0010] The enclosure assembly may include various components configured to provide little or no friction between the components and the spherical Dewar. The enclosure assembly may include a plurality of gasket assemblies, a plurality of ball bearings, a plurality of transfer rollers, a plurality of ball transfer devices, a plurality of ball elements, and the like. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] By reading the following drawings and detailed description, other systems, methods, features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The components shown in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and may be exaggerated to better illustrate important features of the present invention.
[0012] Figure 1 An example cryogenic storage system according to an aspect of the invention is shown.
[0013] Figure 2 A spherical dewar is shown within a capsule according to an aspect of the invention.
[0014] Figure 3 A spherical Dewar flask is shown rotating within a capsule in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.
[0015] Figure 4 A spherical Dewar is shown opened to allow the insertion of liquid or gas in accordance with one aspect of the present invention.
[0016] Figure 5 The present invention is shown in one aspect Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a cryogenic storage system;
[0017] Figures 6A-6C Liquid or gas within the payload region at different orientations is shown in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.
[0018] Figure 7 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 An example vapor lock for a cryogenic storage system.
[0019] Fig. 8A According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 Example bellows neck tube for a cryogenic storage system.
[0020] Figure 8B A method for connecting to a Figure 1 The corrugated neck of the Dewar flask of the cryogenic storage system.
[0021] Fig. 9 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 An example ball transfer device for a cryogenic storage system.
[0022] Fig.10 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 The enclosure assembly of the cryogenic storage system.
[0023] Fig.11 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 The enclosure assembly of the cryogenic storage system.
[0024] Fig.12 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 The enclosure assembly of the cryogenic storage system.
[0025] Fig.13 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 The enclosure assembly of the cryogenic storage system.
[0026] Fig.14 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 The enclosure assembly of the cryogenic storage system.
[0027] Fig.15 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 The enclosure assembly of the cryogenic storage system.
[0028] Fig.16 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 The enclosure assembly of the cryogenic storage system.
[0029] Fig.17 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 The enclosure assembly of the cryogenic storage system.
[0030] Fig.18 A method of assembling a cryogenic storage system according to one aspect of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] Disclosed herein are systems, devices, and apparatus for transporting and storing liquids or gases such as liquid nitrogen. The system, device, or apparatus may be a cryogenic storage system for storing and transporting liquids. Specific embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification may be implemented to achieve one or more of the following advantages.
[0032] The cryogenic storage system may have a capsule made of a polymer material so that the capsule can withstand cryogenic temperatures. That is, the polymer material is brittle and not easily broken at cryogenic temperatures. The capsule may hold or suspend a dewar flask containing a liquid or gas. In addition, the capsule surrounds the dewar flask to protect the dewar flask from any impact. The capsule may freely suspend or hold the dewar flask so that the dewar flask rotates and / or moves freely in the capsule without impacting the inner side of the capsule. In addition, the dewar flask may be spherical and have passive stability. That is, the dewar flask may have a center of mass positioned directly opposite to the opening and a center of gravity at or near the bottom of the dewar flask near the center of mass so that the dewar flask remains in an upright or vertical position or returns to an upright or vertical position when tilted. Since the dewar flask is able to rotate freely in the capsule and has passive stability, the dewar flask remains upright regardless of the orientation of the capsule to prevent overflow. In addition, by making the dewar flask upright and stable, the cryogenic storage system reduces the evaporation of the liquid in the dewar flask. For example, the cryogenic storage system reduces the rate of nitrogen evaporation within the dewar, which extends the life of the dewar in transit.
[0033] Other benefits and advantages include: the capsule has multiple faces that provide access to the dewar, which improves physical access to the opening of the dewar for inserting and / or removing liquids or gases. In addition, the dewar can have electronics to transmit and monitor the temperature inside the dewar, and have a connection device that reduces the amount of friction between the capsule and the dewar when the dewar is free to rotate.
[0034] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a cryogenic storage system 100 according to various embodiments, and Figure 2A cross-sectional view of a cryogenic storage system 100 is shown. Cryogenic storage system ("storage system") 100 includes a capsule 102, a dewar 104, such as a double-walled bottle, and a vapor plug 106. Capsule 102 is three-dimensional (3D) and may be shaped as a cube. Capsule 102 may be shaped as any type of three-dimensional object, such as a cube, tetrahedron, dodecahedron, or octahedron, and may be made of a polymer material so that capsule 102 does not break at cryogenic temperatures.
[0035] The capsule 102 has a plurality of side portions 108 or faces. The side portions 108 form a closed capsule around or encloses the dewar flask 104. The side portions 108 may be a planar or grid-like surface connected to other side portions to form the capsule 102 and around the dewar flask 104. The dewar flask 104 is inserted or placed into the cavity of the capsule 102 so that the dewar flask 104 resides in the capsule 102. A plurality of side portions 108 may be snapped together using one or more fasteners. For example, a plurality of side portions 108 may be snapped together at one or more corners 112. In some embodiments, the capsule may be formed by a plurality of modular pieces. A plurality of modular pieces may be connected and / or fastened together to form the capsule 102. A plurality of side portions may have one or more capsule openings 110. One or more capsule openings 110 may be circular and / or shaped to be the same shape as the dewar flask opening. As the dewar 104 rotates within the capsule 102, one or more capsule openings 110 provide access to the dewar 104. Thus, regardless of the orientation of the capsule 102, the openings 402 of the dewar 104 are accessible.
[0036] For example, the capsule 102 is shaped as a cube and has six sides 108. Each side is connected to at least one other side at a corner 112. On each side, there is a capsule opening 110. When the Dewar opening is aligned with the capsule opening 110 on the side of the capsule 102, the capsule opening allows access to the vapor plug 106 and the Dewar opening. Therefore, as the Dewar rotates within the cavity of the capsule, when one or more of the capsule openings 110 are aligned with the Dewar opening, one or more of the capsule openings 110 provide access to the vapor plug 106 and the Dewar opening.
[0037] The enclosure 102 may have an inner frame 114 and an outer frame 116. The outer frame 116 protects the dewar 104 from bumps, vibrations, and / or shocks. For example, when the enclosure 102 is transported or stored, the outer frame 116 separates the dewar 104 from other objects such as other boxes or the side of a truck. The inner frame 114 forms a cavity within the enclosure 102 in which the dewar 104 is located. The dewar 104 may be hung, placed, or otherwise located within the cavity of the inner frame 114 so that the dewar 104 can rotate within the cavity.
[0038] The storage system 100 may include a ball transfer device 900 connected between the capsule 102 and the dewar 104. The ball transfer device 900 facilitates movement of the dewar relative to the capsule 102. The ball transfer device 900 may be positioned at the inner phalanges or wings 202 between the capsule 102 and the dewar and provide a frictionless or nearly frictionless surface. The ball transfer device 900 minimizes or eliminates friction between the dewar and the capsule 102, which allows the dewar to move or rotate freely within the capsule 102. Fig. 9 The structure of the ball transfer device 900 is further described.
[0039] The storage system 100 includes a dewar 104. The dewar 104 may be a double-walled flask and may be shaped as a sphere or any other polyhedron. The dewar 104 may be centrally located within the central cavity of the enclosure 102 and may be free to rotate and / or move within the central cavity. The dewar 104 may rotate about a central vertical axis 306 in directions 302, 304 or in any other direction in three dimensions, such as Figure 3 shown.
[0040] The dewar 104 has an inner wall 504, an outer wall 502, and an opening 402. The storage system 100 may have a plug, such as a vapor plug 106, that may be inserted into the opening 402 to seal or partially seal the dewar 104 while allowing some gas to escape, such as Figure 4 The opening 402 leads to a cavity or payload area 506 within the dewar 104 . Figure 5 The payload area 506 is shown in a cross-sectional view of the dewar 104. The dewar 104 can create a vacuum between the inner wall 504 and the outer wall 502 to hold or store liquids or gases below ambient temperature. The dewar 104 can have a pump-out port 412. The pump-out port 412 can be used to create a vacuum between the inner wall 504 and the outer wall 502 of the dewar 104, which allows the space between the inner wall 504 and the outer wall 502 to be completely evacuated.
[0041] The dewar 104 has an inner wall 504 and an outer wall 502 with a vacuum between the inner wall 504 and the outer wall 502. The outer wall 502 has an opening 402 that allows liquid or gas to be inserted or placed into the payload area 506. The opening 402 can be positioned opposite the center of gravity or mass 512 of the dewar 104 so that the opening 402 remains upright when the dewar 104 is passively stabilized. The opening 402 allows gas to escape from the payload area 506 of the dewar 104 to relieve gas expansion within the dewar 104.
[0042] The inner wall 504 forms and / or encloses a payload area 506 within the dewar 104. The payload area 506 can be a cylindrical cavity within the dewar 104 that extends longitudinally from a top portion 508 of the dewar 104 to a bottom portion 510 thereof. The payload area 506 holds or stores liquids or gases that are below ambient temperature. An absorbent material 606 can be at or around a bottom portion of the payload area 506. The absorbent material 606 can maintain a temperature within the payload area 506 below ambient temperature.
[0043] The dewar 104 has a top portion 508 and a bottom portion 510. The top portion 508 is where the opening 402 is located and is held upright due to the passive stability of the dewar 104. The bottom portion 510 includes a center of gravity or mass 512. Because the center of gravity or mass 512 is located within the bottom portion 510 of the dewar 104, the dewar 104 is stabilized about the center of gravity or mass 512 so that the dewar 104 remains upright. By stabilizing the dewar 104 about the center of gravity or mass 512, regardless of the orientation of the enclosure 102, the storage system 100 reduces the amount and / or rate of evaporation of the liquid or gas and / or absorbent material, for example, the nitrogen evaporation rate is reduced. The amount and / or rate of evaporation of the liquid or gas and / or absorbent material is based on the size of the cross-sectional surface area 604a-c of the liquid or gas 602, for example, as Figures 6A-6C Additionally, due to the passive stability of the dewar 104, the dewar 104 increases the amount of shipping density within the shipping container because the dewar 104 can be enclosed in any shape enclosure 102, which allows the shipper to use any shape for the enclosure 102 that best fits the available space or void volume within the shipping container.
[0044] Fig. 6A 1 shows liquid or gas 602 and absorbent material 606 within the payload area 506 of the dewar 104 when the dewar 104 is upright. The absorbent material 606 may be positioned within or around a bottom portion of the payload area 506 of the dewar 104. When the dewar 104 is upright, the cross-sectional surface area 604a of the liquid or gas 602 has a diameter D because the payload area 506 is upright or vertical. If the payload area 506 is angled or tilted, such as Figure 6B and 6CAs shown, the liquid or gas 602 will have a cross-sectional surface area 604b-c of D+ΔD, respectively, which is greater than the cross-sectional surface area 602a, D when the payload area 506 is upright or vertical. As the payload area 506 is tilted or angled, the shape of the cross-sectional surface area 604a transitions from a circular shape to an elliptical shape of the cross-sectional surface areas 604b-c due to the cylindrical nature of the payload area 506. The size of the elliptical cross-sectional surface areas 604b-c increases as the angle increases. The increased cross-sectional surface areas 602b-c result in an increased evaporation rate and / or evaporation amount of the liquid or gas 602, and / or an increased consumption rate or consumption of the absorbent material 606. The increased cross-sectional surface areas 604b-c expose more of the liquid or gas 602 to the higher temperature medium, thereby resulting in a faster consumption rate of the absorbent material 606 to cool the liquid or gas 602. Additionally, as the payload area 506 tilts, liquid and / or gas may overflow or escape from the opening 402 of the dewar 104. Additionally, as the liquid or gas 602 overflows and / or the cross-sectional surface area 602b-c increases, a partial vacuum is created, which draws in hot air that further increases the average temperature and results in a faster consumption rate of the absorbent material 606 to cool the liquid or gas 602.
[0045] Because the Dewar 104 within the storage system 100 has passive stability that maintains the Dewar 104 in an upright position regardless of the orientation of the enclosure 102, the payload area 506 within the Dewar 104 remains in an upright position or returns to an upright position when the Dewar 104 is tilted, rotated, and / or otherwise angled. Therefore, the storage system 100 reduces the amount and / or rate of evaporation of the liquid or gas 602 and reduces the rate of consumption of the absorbent material 606 by maintaining the Dewar 104 in an upright position and / or passively adjusting the Dewar 104 so that the Dewar 104 returns to or remains in an upright and / or vertical position. In addition, by reducing the rate of consumption of the absorbent material 606, which may be nitrogen, the dynamic retention time of the Dewar 104 is increased. The dynamic retention time is the time that the Dewar 104 maintains the internal temperature at or below -150°C during transportation.
[0046] Storage system 100 includes a vapor lock 106 . Figure 4 and Figure 7The vapor plug 106 is shown. The vapor plug 106 can have a handle portion 408 and a neck 410. The handle portion 408 can have a handle or grip that allows a user to twist the vapor plug 106 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction to insert at least a portion of the neck 410 into the opening 402. The vapor plug 106 can be removable. That is, the vapor plug 106 can be inserted into the opening 402 of the dewar 104 to close or partially close the dewar 104 and prevent access to the payload area 506. The handle portion 408 and / or the neck 410 can be made of a non-conductive material, such as a polymer or a fiberglass material.
[0047] For example Figure 4 As shown, the vapor plug 106 can be rotated or twisted clockwise and / or counterclockwise. For example, the vapor plug 106 can be rotated clockwise when inserted into the opening 402 to secure the vapor plug 106 within the opening 402, and rotated counterclockwise to remove the vapor plug 106 from the opening 402 to allow liquid or gas to be inserted into the payload area 506. In another example, the vapor plug 106 can be rotated counterclockwise when inserted into the opening 402 to secure the vapor plug 106 within the opening 402, and rotated clockwise to remove the vapor plug 106 from the opening 402. The vapor plug 106 can be inserted into the opening 402 so that there is a gap to allow gas to escape to prevent pressure from accumulating as liquid within the payload area 506 evaporates.
[0048] The vapor plug 106 may have a locking device 704, such as Figure 7 506 of the Dewar 104. The locking device 704 may be positioned on the neck of the vapor plug 106. The locking device 704 may be one or more magnets that interlock with one or more other magnets within the top interior portion of the payload area 506 of the Dewar 104. The magnets may have opposite polarities so that when the vapor plug 106 is rotated in a particular position within the Dewar 104, the magnets lock the vapor plug within the Dewar 104. Conversely, when the vapor plug 106 is rotated about its axis to another position, the opposite polarity of the magnets may force the vapor plug to leave the Dewar 104.
[0049] When the vapor plug 106 is inserted into the payload area 506, the locking device 704 locks. Since there may be a gap between the vapor plug 106 and the interior portion of the payload area 506 of the dewar 104, the locking device 704 locks the vapor plug 106 and the dewar 104 in place to prevent the vapor plug 106 from falling out when the dewar 104 is oriented or rotated in different directions. The gap between the vapor plug 106 and the dewar 104 allows gas to escape due to evaporation of liquid or expansion of gas in the payload area 506 to prevent pressure from accumulating in the payload area 506.
[0050] The storage system 100 may include an electronic thermocouple 702, which may be positioned, embedded or included in the neck 410 of the vapor plug 106, or connected to the neck 410 of the vapor plug 106. The electronic thermocouple 702 may be an electronic device or sensor that measures and monitors the temperature within the dewar 104. The electronic thermocouple 702 may use a wireless protocol to wirelessly transmit and / or communicate with another electronic device such as a smart data logger. The electronic thermocouple 702 may communicate with the smart data logger and provide the temperature, and / or may receive instructions from the smart data logger to monitor the temperature. The smart data logger may display the temperature to a user or another electronic platform or otherwise communicate the temperature. This allows real-time monitoring of the temperature within the dewar 104 by other individuals.
[0051] The storage system 100 may include an electronic orientation sensor 706, which may be positioned, embedded or included in the neck 410 of the vapor plug 106, or connected to the neck 410 of the vapor plug 106. The electronic orientation sensor 706 may be an electronic device or sensor that measures the orientation within the dewar 104, such as a gyroscope or the like. The electronic orientation sensor 706 may use a wireless protocol to wirelessly transmit and / or communicate with another electronic device such as a smart data logger. The electronic orientation sensor 706 may communicate with the smart data logger and provide it with orientation data and / or angular velocity data, and / or may receive instructions from the smart data logger to monitor orientation. The smart data logger may display the orientation to a user or another electronic platform or otherwise communicate the orientation. This allows other individuals to monitor the orientation of the dewar 104 in real time.
[0052] The storage system 100 may include a corrugated neck tube 800, such as Figures 8A-8B As shown. The corrugated neck tube 800 can be thin-walled. The corrugated neck tube 800 connects the outer wall 502 of the Dewar flask 104 to the inner wall 504. The corrugated neck tube 800 reduces the overall height of the neck tube, but keeps the overall path length for conducting heat the same as a straight neck tube. The corrugated neck tube 800 may have a serpentine path 802 that provides heat conduction. By reducing the height of the neck tube, but keeping the overall path length the same as a straight neck tube, the corrugated neck tube 800 reduces the overall size of the Dewar flask 104. In addition, by keeping the overall path length for conducting heat the same as a straight neck tube, the corrugated neck tube 800 reduces the heat conducted into the Dewar flask 104. Therefore, the corrugated neck tube 800 provides the same heat conduction with a shorter neck tube (e.g., shorter overall height or size) than a straight neck tube of similar overall path length. For example, the height of the corrugated neck tube 800 may be 2-3 inches long, while the overall path length for heat conduction may be 6 inches long because the overall path length for heat conduction may be a serpentine path along the thin wall corrugated neck tube.
[0053] For example Fig. 9As shown, the storage system 100 includes a ball transfer device 900. The ball transfer device 900 can be connected to the capsule 102 at the inner phalanx or wing 202. The ball transfer device 900 can provide an interface between the capsule 102 and the dewar 104 and allow the dewar 104 to rotate freely within the cavity of the capsule 102.
[0054] The ball transfer device 900 can have a head 902 and a body 904. The head 902 and the body 904 can be shaped as cylinders. The diameter of the head 902 can be greater than the diameter of the body 904. The ball transfer device 900 can be inserted into a hole or opening of the inner phalanx or wing 202. For example, the body 904 can be inserted into the opening and the head 902 can form a seal around the opening of the inner phalanx or wing 202. The head 902 and the body 904 can have an opening and a cavity in which the ball bearing 906 and the spring 908 reside.
[0055] The ball transfer device 900 may have a ball bearing 906, a cup 910, and a spring 908, which is seated or resting in the cavity of the ball transfer device 900. The ball bearing 906 may have a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion of the ball bearing 906 may protrude from the head 902 of the ball transfer device 900. When the dewar 104 is seated in the cavity of the capsule 102, the protruding top portion of the ball bearing 906 contacts the dewar 104. The ball bearing 906 minimizes the friction between the capsule 102 and the dewar 104, thereby allowing the dewar 104 to rotate or move freely within the capsule 102. The ball bearing 906 provides a frictionless surface or a reduced friction surface. The bottom portion of the ball bearing 906 in the cavity of the body 904 may rest on the cup 910, which engages the spring 908.
[0056] The cup 910 interfaces between the bottom portion of the ball bearing 906 and the spring 908, so that when a force is applied to the top portion of the ball bearing 906, the bottom portion of the ball bearing 906 presses against the cup 910, which provides a downward force on the spring 908, causing the spring 908 to contract. This allows the dewar 104 to rotate freely within the capsule 102 and allows the capsule 102 to absorb shock and vibration during storage and / or transportation. When the dewar 104 presses against the ball bearing 906, the ball bearing 906 further enters the cavity of the body 904 while the spring 908 further contracts. This allows the dewar 104 to push rather than remain rigid, thereby absorbing any shock or vibration. When the event that caused the shock or vibration has passed, the spring 908 returns or expands back to a normal state and keeps the dewar 104 positioned in the cavity of the capsule 102. Additionally, one or more ball bearings 906 allow the dewar 104 to be rotated or angled so that the dewar 104 remains passively stable and upright regardless of the orientation of the enclosure 102 .
[0057] The spring 908 may contract when a downward force is applied to the ball bearing 906, such as when the dewar 104 exerts an outward force on the ball bearing 906 due to an impact or vibration on the capsule 102. For example, when the capsule 102 moves, shifts, or drops, a vibration force is exerted on the capsule 102. If the dewar 104 moves or shifts in response to the vibration force, the dewar 104 may exert an outward force on the ball transfer device 900, but instead of violently contacting the capsule 102, the dewar 104 exerts a force on the ball bearing 906, which retracts within the cavity of the body 904 and causes the spring 908 to contract and absorb the force.
[0058] Reference now Fig.10 , shows a storage system 1000 according to various embodiments. The storage system 1000 includes a dewar 104 and a capsule assembly 1002. The capsule assembly 1002 includes a first support ring 1010 and a second support ring 1020. The first support ring 1010 can be arranged opposite to the second support ring 1020. The first support ring 1010 and the second support ring 1020 can include the same geometric shape (e.g., a track, etc.). Each support ring 1010, 1020 includes a plurality of ball transfer devices 1030. Each ball transfer device in the plurality of ball transfer devices 1030 can be connected to Fig. 9 In various embodiments, the ball transfer device 1030 may include a ball bearing or the like.
[0059] The capsule assembly 1002 may also include a first end plate 1040 and a second end plate 1050. The first end plate 1040 is disposed opposite the second end plate 1050. The first support ring 1010 is coupled to the first end plate 1040 and the second support ring 1020 is coupled to the second end plate 1050 by any method known in the art, such as fasteners, adhesives, etc. Each end plate 1040, 1050 may be flat. Each support ring 1010, 1020 may include an inclined surface that is angled relative to an adjacent surface of each end plate 1040, 1050. For example, the inner surface of the first support ring 1010 may be disposed at an acute angle relative to the surface of the first support ring away from the Dewar 104. A plurality of ball transfer devices 1030 may be disposed around the inclined surface. In various embodiments, the ball transfer device 1030 may contact the Dewar 104 at a point that is substantially tangential to the outer surface of the Dewar 104. "Substantially tangential" as referred to herein is tangential + / - 15 degrees.
[0060] The enclosure assembly 1002 may further include a plurality of springs 1060. A first plurality of springs in the plurality of springs 1060 may be disposed between the first end plate 1040 and the first support ring 1010, and a second plurality of springs in the plurality of springs 1060 may be disposed between the second end plate 1050 and the second support ring 1020. The plurality of springs 1060 may be configured to absorb shock during transfer of the storage system 1000.
[0061] The capsule assembly 1002 may also include a plurality of rods 1070 disposed between the first end plate 1040 and the second end plate 1050. Each of the plurality of rods 1070 may be coupled to the first end plate 1040 and the second end plate 1050 by any method known in the art, such as fasteners, adhesives, etc. The plurality of rods 1070 may be configured to secure the Dewar 104 between the first support ring 1010 and the second support ring 1020 by ensuring that the Dewar 104 is in contact with each of the plurality of ball transfer devices 1030.
[0062] The enclosure assembly 1002 can be configured to protect the dewar 104 from external forces during transfer of the storage system 1000. For example, the ball transfer device 1030 can provide near frictionless contact with the dewar so it can rotate freely within the enclosure assembly 1002. The plurality of springs 1060 can provide shock absorption when external forces are applied to the enclosure assembly.
[0063] Reference now Fig.11 , shows a capsule assembly 1102 according to various embodiments. The capsule assembly 1102 includes a first support tube 1110 and a second support tube 1120. The first support tube 1110 can be arranged opposite to the second support tube 1120. In various embodiments, the first support tube 1110 and the second support tube 1120 may include polyester, nylon, vinyl, etc. or may be made of polyester, nylon, vinyl, etc. The first support tube 1110 and the second support tube 1120 may be filled with a gas or a liquid. The gas or liquid may be configured to maintain the same volume as the temperature changes (that is, the gas or liquid may not shrink or expand as the temperature changes). In various embodiments, the first support tube 1110 and the second support tube 1120 may be filled with nitrogen.
[0064] The enclosure assembly 1102 also includes a plurality of gasket assemblies 1130. Each gasket in the plurality of gasket assemblies 1130 may include a gasket component and a gasket shell. For example, a gasket assembly 1132 in the plurality of gasket assemblies 1130 includes a gasket component 1133 and a gasket shell 1135. The gasket component 1133 may include a plate or the like. The gasket component 1133 may be made of a flexible material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a thermoplastic polymer, or the like. The gasket shell 1135 may include a receiving portion configured to receive the gasket component 1133. The gasket component 1133 may be configured to be removably coupled to the gasket shell 1135 by any method known in the art, such as press-fitting, fastening, adhesion, or the like.
[0065] The enclosure assembly 1102 also includes a first enclosure 1140 and a second enclosure 1150. The first enclosure 1140 can be arranged to be opposite to the second enclosure 1150. The first enclosure 1140 and the second enclosure 1150 can be configured to receive corresponding support tubes. For example, the first support tube 1110 is coupled to the first enclosure 1140 by any method known in the art such as press-fit, fasteners, adhesion, etc. The first support tube 1110 is accommodated in the first enclosure 1140. The first enclosure 1140 can fix the first support tube in place. In various embodiments, each enclosure can include a radially outer ring, a radially inner ring, and a plurality of flanges. For example, the second enclosure 1150 includes a radially outer ring 1152, a radially inner ring 1154, and a plurality of flanges 1156. Each of the plurality of flanges 1156 can extend radially inward from the radially inner ring 1154. The plurality of flanges 1156 can be arranged substantially equidistantly around the radially inner ring 1154. Each flange in the plurality of flanges 1156 may be configured to be hingedly coupled to a corresponding cushion assembly in the plurality of cushion assemblies 1130 .
[0066] The plurality of liner assemblies 1130 may be configured to receive a Dewar flask 104 (e.g. Fig.10 104 can be configured to contact only the liner of the corresponding liner assembly. Each liner of the plurality of liner assemblies 1130 can serve as a nearly frictionless surface about which the dewar rotates. The first support tube 1110 and the second support tube 1120 can be configured to absorb shock from external forces during transfer of a storage system including the enclosure assembly 1102 and the dewar 104. The first enclosure 1140 and the second enclosure 1150 can be configured to couple to an enclosure, such as (from Figure 1 In various embodiments, enclosure assembly 1102 can be lighter than enclosure assembly 1002. In various embodiments, enclosure assembly 1102 can provide greater impact absorption than enclosure assembly 1002.
[0067] Reference now Fig.12, a portion of a capsule assembly 1202 is shown according to various embodiments. The capsule assembly 1202 includes a first capsule 1210. The first capsule 1210 may be shaped as a spherical cap, etc. The capsule assembly also includes a plurality of transfer rollers 1230 disposed around an inner surface of the first capsule 1210. The plurality of transfer rollers 1230 are suspended in the first capsule 1210 by a mesh assembly 1240.
[0068] In various embodiments, the net assembly 1240 includes a plurality of cables 1242. The plurality of cables 1242 are coupled to the plurality of transfer rollers 1230 and are configured to suspend the plurality of transfer rollers so that the plurality of transfer rollers 1230 do not contact the first enclosure during transfer of the corresponding storage system. The plurality of cables 1242 may be elastic cables, steel cables, etc. The enclosure assembly 1202 also includes a plurality of springs 1250. Each spring in the plurality of springs 1250 is coupled to a corresponding transfer roller in the plurality of transfer rollers 1230. In various embodiments, more than one spring in the plurality of springs 1250 may be coupled to a corresponding transfer roller in the plurality of transfer rollers 1230. In various embodiments, a transfer roller in the plurality of transfer rollers 1230 may not be coupled to a spring and / or may be completely suspended by the plurality of cables 1242 in the net assembly.
[0069] In various embodiments, the capsule assembly 1202 may further include a second capsule. The second capsule may be consistent with the first capsule 1210. The second capsule may be disposed opposite the first capsule 1210. The capsule assembly 1202 may be configured to receive the Dewar flask 104 (eg, Figure 1 12. The enclosure assembly 1202 may be configured to suspend the dewar away from the first enclosure 1210 and the second enclosure during transfer to the respective storage systems.
[0070] In various embodiments, each transfer roller in the plurality of transfer rollers 1230 includes a housing and a ball bearing. For example, transfer roller 1232 includes a housing 1234 and a bearing 1236. Bearing 1236 is disposed in housing 1234. Bearing 1236 protrudes outward from housing 1234. Bearing 1236 can provide a nearly frictionless outer surface. Bearing 1236 can be configured to allow a Dewar flask (e.g., Figure 1 The Dewar flask 104 in FIG. 1 is free to rotate within the enclosure assembly 1202 during transfer to the corresponding storage system.
[0071] Reference now Fig.13, shows a portion of a capsule assembly 1302 according to various embodiments. The capsule assembly 1302 includes a capsule 1310. The capsule 1310 may include a box shape, etc. The capsule 1310 may define a recess 1312, such as a substantially hemispherical recess, a spherical and cap-shaped recess, etc. The capsule assembly 1302 also includes a cushioning component 1340 disposed within the recess 1312. The cushioning component 1340 may include a flexible material, such as foam, rubber, etc. The capsule assembly 1302 also includes a plurality of ball transfer devices 1330 disposed around an inner surface of the cushioning component 1340. Each of the plurality of ball transfer devices 1330 may include (from Fig. 9 ) ball transfer device 900.
[0072] In various embodiments, the capsule assembly 1302 is configured to double absorb shock during the transfer of the dewar. For example, when an external force is applied to the capsule assembly 1302, the plurality of ball transfer devices 1330 can absorb a portion of the shock via a spring of each of the plurality of ball transfer devices 1330. Similarly, when the spring is compressed, the dewar can contact the cushion component 1340, which can absorb a portion of the shock from the external force.
[0073] In various embodiments, each of the plurality of ball transfer devices 1330 can be disposed within the cushion member 1340 and coupled to the cushion member 1340 and / or to the enclosure 1310. Each of the plurality of ball transfer devices 1330 can protrude outwardly from the inner surface 1342 of the cushion member 1340. Under normal transfer conditions, the dewar (e.g., the dewar 104) can contact only the plurality of ball transfer devices 1330. When subjected to external forces, the dewar (e.g., the dewar 104) can contact a portion of the cushion member 1340 and / or the plurality of ball transfer devices 1330.
[0074] In various embodiments, the capsule assembly 1302 may also include a fastener 1350 coupled to a side of the capsule 1310. The fastener 1350 may be any fastener known in the art, such as a latch, etc. The fastener 1350 may be configured to engage a mating fastener of an adjacent capsule. In various embodiments, the adjacent capsule is consistent with the capsule 1310. The capsule assembly 1302 may include a first capsule (e.g., the capsule 1310) and a second capsule (e.g., the capsule 1310). According to various embodiments, the first capsule and the second capsule may be configured to completely enclose a dewar (e.g., the dewar) as part of the storage system. Figure 1 Dewar flask 104).
[0075] In various embodiments, the enclosure assembly 1302 may also include a fastener receiving portion 1352. The fastener receiving portion 1352 may be configured to be fastened to a corresponding fastener (e.g., fastener 1350) of a mating enclosure (e.g., enclosure 1310). The fastener 1350 and the fastener receiving portion 1352 may ensure that the enclosure assembly 1302 fully encloses the corresponding dewar (e.g., dewar 104).
[0076] Reference now Fig.14 , shows a portion of a capsule assembly 1402 according to various embodiments. The capsule assembly 1402 includes a capsule 1410. The capsule 1410 may include a box shape, etc. The capsule 1410 may define a recess 1412, such as a substantially hemispherical recess, a spherical and cap-shaped recess, etc. The capsule assembly 1402 also includes a cushioning component 1440 disposed within the recess 1412. The cushioning component 1440 may include a flexible material, such as foam, rubber, etc. The capsule assembly 1402 also includes a plurality of ball elements 1430 disposed around an inner surface of the cushioning component 1440. Each of the plurality of ball elements 1430 may be embedded in the cushioning component 1440. Each of the plurality of ball elements 1430 may be configured to rotate freely within the cushioning component 1440.
[0077] Each of the plurality of ball elements 1430 may protrude outwardly from the inner surface 1442 of the cushion component 1440. Under normal transfer conditions, the dewar (e.g., the dewar 104) may only contact the plurality of ball elements 1430. When subjected to an external force, the dewar (e.g., the dewar 104) may contact the cushion component 1440 and / or a portion of the plurality of ball elements 1430 (i.e., each of the plurality of ball elements 1430 may be configured to deform the cushion component 1440).
[0078] In various embodiments, the capsule assembly 1402 may also include a fastener 1450 coupled to a side of the capsule 1410. The fastener 1450 may be any fastener known in the art, such as a latch, etc. The fastener 1450 may be configured to engage a mating fastener of an adjacent capsule. In various embodiments, the adjacent capsule is consistent with the capsule 1410. The capsule assembly 1402 may include a first capsule (e.g., the capsule 1410) and a second capsule (e.g., the capsule 1410). According to various embodiments, the first capsule and the second capsule may be configured to completely enclose a dewar (e.g., the capsule 1410) as part of the storage system. Figure 1 Dewar flask 104).
[0079] In various embodiments, the capsule assembly 1402 may also include a fastener receiving portion 1452. The fastener receiving portion 1452 may be configured to be fastened to a corresponding fastener (e.g., fastener 1450) of a mating capsule (e.g., capsule 1410). The fastener 1450 and the fastener receiving portion 1452 may ensure that the capsule assembly 1302 fully encloses the corresponding dewar (e.g., dewar 104).
[0080] Reference now Fig.15 , showing a portion of a storage system 1500 and a portion of a containment assembly 1602 according to various embodiments. The storage system 1500 includes a dewar 104 disposed within an outer dome 1510. The storage system 1500 may also include a plurality of ball elements 1530 disposed between the outer dome 1510 and the dewar 104. In various embodiments, the outer dome 1510 includes a first dome portion 1512 and a second dome portion 1514. The first dome portion 1512 may be coupled to the second dome portion 1514 by any method known in the art, such as a fastener, a hinge, etc. The first dome portion 1512 may also include an orifice 1516 disposed through an outer surface of the first dome portion 1512. The first dome portion 1512 and the second dome portion 1514 may include a substantially hemispherical shape, etc. The dewar 104 may be configured to rotate freely within the outer dome 1510 during transfer of the storage system 1500. The outer dome 1510 may be made of any material known in the art, such as metal, plastic, etc. The outer dome 1510 may define a substantially spherical cavity configured to receive the dewar 104 therein.
[0081] In various embodiments, the plurality of ball elements 1530 can be configured to contact at least one-third of the surface area of the outer surface of the dewar 104. For example, the second dome portion 1514 of the outer dome 1510 can be filled with the plurality of ball elements 1530 and ensure that at least one-third of the surface area of the outer surface of the dewar 104 is in contact with the plurality of ball elements. In various embodiments, the storage system 1500 can be configured to ensure that the outer surface of the dewar 104 is only in contact with the plurality of ball elements 1530 during transfer of the storage system 1500. Each of the plurality of ball elements 1530 can be made of any material known in the art, such as plastic, metal, etc. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of ball elements 1530 is made of plastic.
[0082] Each ball element in the plurality of ball elements 1530 can provide a nearly frictionless outer surface. Each bearing portion in the plurality of ball elements 1530 can be configured to allow the Dewar 104 to rotate freely within the outer dome 1510 of the enclosure assembly 1602 during transfer of the corresponding storage system.
[0083] Reference now Fig.16, showing a portion of a storage system 1500 according to various embodiments. The storage system 1500 may also include a housing assembly 1602. The housing assembly 1602 may include a housing 1610. The housing 1610 may include any shape known in the art, such as a box shape, a hexagonal shape, etc. The housing 1610 may include a box shape, etc. The housing 1610 may define a recess 1612, such as a substantially hemispherical recess, a spherical and cap-shaped recess, etc. The housing assembly 1602 also includes a cushioning member 1640 disposed within the recess 1612. The cushioning member 1640 may include a flexible material, such as foam, rubber, etc. The cushioning member 1640 may include a gasket, etc. The housing assembly 1602 may also include a portion of the outer dome 1510 (e.g., the first dome portion 1512 or the second dome portion 1514). A portion of the outer dome 1510 may be disposed in the recess 1612 and / or may contact the cushioning member 1640. After a portion of outer dome 1510 is disposed in recess 1612, (from Fig.15 ) Multiple ball elements 1530 can be set in a portion of the outer dome 1510.
[0084] In various embodiments, the cushion component 1640 may include an aperture 1642 disposed proximate to the distal surface 1614 of the capsule 1610. According to various embodiments, a "distal surface" as described herein is a surface that is away from the center of the storage system 1500. Thus, the cushion component 1640 may be configured to receive a portion of the outer dome 1510 and / or secure the outer dome 1510 in place via a press fit, etc. The cushion component 1640 may be coupled to the capsule 1610 by any method known in the art, such as an adhesive.
[0085] In various embodiments, enclosure assembly 1602 can further include a second cushioning component 1650 disposed proximate distal surface 1614 of enclosure 1610. Second cushioning component 1650 can be configured to provide additional impact support if outer dome 1510 bottoms out during transfer of storage system 1500.
[0086] In various embodiments, enclosure assembly 1602 may include a first enclosure (e.g., enclosure 1610) and a second enclosure (e.g., enclosure 1610). The first enclosure and the second enclosure may be configured to be coupled together by any method known in the art, such as fasteners and fastener receiving portions, such as Fig.13 The enclosure assembly 1302 described above, etc.
[0087] Reference now Fig.17, shows a portion of a storage system 1700 according to various embodiments. For ease of illustration, the outer dome 1710 is shown as transparent. The storage system 1700 includes a capsule assembly 1702 and a dewar 104. The capsule assembly 1702 includes a capsule 1810, an outer dome 1710, and a plurality of ball elements 1730.
[0088] In various embodiments, the outer dome 1710 includes a first dome portion 1712 and a second dome portion 1714. The first dome portion 1712 can be coupled to the second dome portion 1714 by any method known in the art, such as a fastener, a hinge, etc. For example, the first dome portion 1712 can include a first flange 1713, and the second dome portion 1714 can include a second flange 1715. The first flange 1713 and the second flange 1715 can be disposed adjacent to each other. The first flange 1713 can be coupled to the second flange 1715 by any method known in the art, such as by a fastener (e.g., fastener 1717). The first dome portion 1712 and the second dome portion 1714 can each include a substantially hemispherical shape, etc. The first dome portion 1712 can also include an orifice 1716 disposed through an outer surface of the first dome portion 1712. The Dewar 104 can be configured to rotate freely within the outer dome 1710 during transfer of the storage system 1700. The outer dome 1710 can be made of any material known in the art, such as metal, plastic, etc.
[0089] In various embodiments, the plurality of ball elements 1730 can be configured to contact at least one-third of the surface area of the outer surface of the dewar 104. For example, the second dome portion 1714 of the outer dome 1710 can be filled with the plurality of ball elements 1730 and ensure that at least one-third of the surface area of the outer surface of the dewar 104 is in contact with the plurality of ball elements. In various embodiments, the storage system 1700 can be configured to ensure that the outer surface of the dewar 104 is only in contact with the plurality of ball elements 1730 during transfer of the storage system 1700. Each of the plurality of ball elements 1730 can be made of any material known in the art, such as plastic, metal, etc. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of ball elements 1730 is made of plastic.
[0090] Each ball element in the plurality of ball elements 1730 can provide a nearly frictionless outer surface. Each bearing portion in the plurality of ball elements 1730 can be configured to allow the dewar 104 to rotate freely within the outer dome 1710 of the enclosure assembly 1702 during transfer of the storage system 1700.
[0091] In various embodiments, the enclosure assembly 1702 further includes a plurality of cushioning components 1740. The plurality of cushioning components 1740 may be disposed around the outer dome 1710. In various embodiments, each cushioning component in the plurality of cushioning components 1740 may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the outer surface of the outer dome 1710. Each cushioning component in the plurality of cushioning components 1740 may include a first cushioning component and a second cushioning component. For example, the cushioning component 1745 includes a first cushioning component 1746 and a second cushioning component 1748. The first cushioning component 1746 may be coupled to the inner surface of the enclosure 1810 by any method known in the art, such as adhesives, fasteners, etc. The second cushioning component 1748 may be coupled to the first cushioning component 1746 by any method known in the art, such as adhesives, fasteners, etc. The second cushioning component 1748 may be configured to contact the outer surface and / or flange of the outer dome 1710 of the enclosure assembly 1702 during transfer of the storage system 1700.
[0092] In various embodiments, the first cushion component 1746 can be more rigid than the second cushion component 1748. The first cushion portion 1746 can be configured to damp vibrations during the transfer of the storage system 1700. The second cushion portion 1748 can be configured to absorb shocks from external forces during the transfer of the storage system 1700. In various embodiments, the first cushion portion 1746 and the second cushion portion 1748 are made of a flexible material, such as foam, rubber, etc. In various embodiments, the first cushion portion is made of a urethane polymer (e.g., a synthetic viscoelastic urethane polymer). In various embodiments, the second cushion portion 1748 is made of a polyethylene polymer.
[0093] Although described with respect to various embodiments, any features from a given embodiment may be used in an alternative embodiment and still remain within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0094] Reference now Fig.18 , a method 1900 of assembling a storage system according to various embodiments is shown. The method includes disposing a plurality of ball elements in a first portion of an outer dome (step 1902). The first portion of the outer dome may be substantially hemispherical in shape. The plurality of ball elements may fill at least two-thirds of the surface area of the first portion of the outer dome. The method also includes disposing a spherical dewar bottle in the first portion of the outer dome (step 1904). The radially outer surface of the spherical dewar bottle may only be in contact with the plurality of ball elements. The method also includes coupling a second portion of the outer dome to the first portion of the outer dome (step 1906). The second portion of the outer dome may be substantially hemispherical in shape. The second portion of the outer dome may include an orifice disposed distal to the first portion of the outer dome. The spherical dewar bottle may be configured to rotate freely within the outer dome on the plurality of ball elements.
[0095] The method may also include setting the outer dome into the first enclosure (step 1908). The first enclosure may be coupled to the cushioning member. In various embodiments, the first enclosure may be consistent with enclosure 1610, enclosure 1810, etc. The method may also include coupling a second enclosure to the first enclosure (step 1910). The second enclosure may be consistent with enclosure 1610, enclosure 1810, etc. The first enclosure and the second enclosure may completely encapsulate the outer dome. The outer dome and the plurality of ball bearing elements may be configured to allow the spherical dewar to experience less or no friction during transfer of the storage system. The first enclosure and the second enclosure may be configured to provide shock absorption and / or vibration damping of the spherical dewar during transportation of the storage system.
[0096] Exemplary embodiments of the method / system have been disclosed in an illustrative manner. Therefore, the terms used throughout this article should be interpreted in a non-restrictive manner. Although minor modifications to the teachings of this article will occur to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that all such embodiments are intended to be limited within the scope of this granted patent, and these embodiments reasonably fall within the scope of contributions by those skilled in the art, and the scope of the present invention should not be limited except according to the attached claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. A low temperature storage system, comprising: a dewar vessel comprising a radially outer surface, wherein all points on the radially outer surface are equidistant from a center of the dewar vessel; and A capsule assembly, the capsule assembly being configured to accommodate the Dewar flask, the capsule assembly comprising: a capsule, the capsule being a closed capsule surrounding the Dewar flask; an outer dome including a spherical cavity and a radial inner surface, the radial inner surface being between the capsule and the dewar vessel such that the dewar vessel is inside the capsule; a gasket member disposed between the enclosure and the outer dome; and Wherein, the dewar flask has a center of gravity or mass in a bottom portion of the dewar flask, and when the dewar flask is tilted or rotated in the shell assembly, the center of gravity or mass passively stabilizes the dewar flask.
2. The low temperature storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The enclosure has sides, each side being a planar surface connected to the other sides to form the enclosure and surrounding the Dewar.
3. The low temperature storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also included is a plurality of gasket components, including the gasket component, disposed around an outer dome radially outer surface of the outer dome.
4. The low temperature storage system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The gasket component includes a first gasket portion coupled to the enclosure and a second gasket portion disposed between the first gasket portion and the radially outer surface of the outer dome, the first gasket portion including a first stiffness greater than a second stiffness of the second gasket portion.
5. The low temperature storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The dewar is a spherical dewar that rotates in three-dimensional space and contacts only a plurality of spherical elements.
6. The low temperature storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The dewar is a temperature controlled spherical dewar having a temperature below ambient temperature, positioned within the spherical cavity of the enclosure assembly and having a payload area configured to be passively stabilized in an upright position.
7. The low temperature storage system according to claim 6, characterized in that: The temperature-controlled spherical dewar has a center of mass or gravity located at or near the bottom of the temperature-controlled spherical dewar, and the center of mass or gravity returns the temperature-controlled spherical dewar to an upright or vertical position, or maintains the temperature-controlled spherical dewar in the upright or vertical position regardless of the orientation of the enclosure assembly.
8. The cryogenic storage system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The temperature controlled spherical Dewar is suspended within the spherical cavity and remains upright within the enclosure assembly regardless of the orientation of the enclosure assembly.
9. The cryogenic storage system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The suspended temperature-controlled spherical Dewar flask is free to rotate in the spherical cavity.
10. The cryogenic storage system according to claim 6, characterized in that: The temperature-controlled spherical Dewar is rotated or moved within the spherical cavity of the enclosure assembly without affecting the inside of the enclosure assembly.
11. The cryogenic storage system according to claim 6, characterized in that: The enclosure assembly has an outer frame and an inner frame.
12. The cryogenic storage system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The plurality of ball elements are configured to contact at least one third of the surface area of the exterior surface of the Dewar vessel.
13. The cryogenic storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The enclosure assembly also includes a plurality of springs configured to absorb shock during transfer of the cryogenic storage system.
14. A cryogenic storage system comprising: a dewar vessel, the dewar vessel comprising a radially outer surface; as well as A capsule assembly, the capsule assembly being configured to accommodate the Dewar flask, the capsule assembly comprising: an outer dome including a substantially spherical cavity and a radially inner surface; and a plurality of ball elements disposed on a top hemisphere of the outer dome and a bottom hemisphere of the outer dome, wherein the dewar is shaped as a sphere and has a center of gravity or mass within a bottom portion of the dewar that passively stabilizes the dewar when the dewar is tilted or rotated within the enclosure assembly, wherein, The enclosure assembly further includes a box-shaped enclosure, wherein the radially inner surface of the outer dome is disposed between the box-shaped enclosure and the Dewar; and A cushion member is disposed between the enclosure and the outer dome.
15. A cryogenic storage system comprising: a dewar flask having a bottom portion that is heavier than a top portion; as well as a capsule assembly including a dome inside the box, the dome having an inner surface defining a spherical cavity to receive the Dewar flask, wherein the dewar remains passively stable and upright regardless of the orientation of the enclosure assembly, wherein the enclosure assembly further comprises: a capsule comprising a box, wherein the inner surface of the dome is disposed between the box and a Dewar; and A cushion member is disposed between the enclosure and the dome.
