Liquid nitrogen level monitoring device and method of use

Abstract

The application discloses a liquid nitrogen height monitoring device and an implementation method thereof, and the method comprises the following steps: acquiring a height signal of a liquid nitrogen tank through a monitoring device; the height signal comprises a first height signal, a second height signal and a third height signal; according to the height signal of the liquid nitrogen tank, determining the liquid nitrogen height and the liquid nitrogen height threshold value through a signal processing system, and triggering a control signal to control the display content of a display, wherein the display content comprises the real-time liquid nitrogen height, the liquid nitrogen height threshold value and the liquid nitrogen setting reminder; the liquid nitrogen height threshold value is the full-load capacity height of the liquid nitrogen tank; when the real-time liquid nitrogen height is less than the liquid nitrogen height threshold value, the liquid nitrogen setting reminder is carried out through the display until the real-time liquid nitrogen height reaches the liquid nitrogen height threshold value. The device is convenient, fast and high in accuracy, the display content of the display is controlled based on the liquid nitrogen height through the signal processing system, the operator can accurately complete the liquid nitrogen adding work with the help of the display, and the device is accurate, practical and can be widely applied to the technical field of medical instruments.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a liquid nitrogen level monitoring device and its usage method. Background Technology

[0002] Cell cryopreservation is a technique that places cells in a low-temperature environment to reduce cellular metabolism, allowing for long-term storage. It is one of the main methods of cell preservation. Currently, a common method involves suspending cryopreservation boxes containing cells in layers within a liquid nitrogen tank using baskets, with the liquid nitrogen in the tank completely submerging the cryopreservation boxes in the baskets. Because the liquid nitrogen in the tank is naturally consumed, it needs to be added periodically. During this process, some of the liquid nitrogen absorbs ambient heat and vaporizes, producing a large amount of mist that interferes with the operator's vision. This makes it difficult for the operator to determine the liquid nitrogen level in the tank. If too much liquid nitrogen is added, the stopper cannot be placed inside; if too little liquid nitrogen is added, the liquid nitrogen level is insufficient, affecting sample cryopreservation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, embodiments of the present invention provide a highly efficient, practical, and automated liquid nitrogen level monitoring device and its usage method.

[0004] On one hand, embodiments of the present invention provide a liquid nitrogen level monitoring device, comprising:

[0005] A monitoring device is used to acquire the height signal of the liquid nitrogen tank; the height signal includes a first height signal, a second height signal, and a third height signal.

[0006] The signal processing system is used to determine the liquid nitrogen height and liquid nitrogen height threshold based on the height signal of the liquid nitrogen tank, and to trigger control signals to control the display content of the display.

[0007] A display is used to show content based on control signals from a signal processing system.

[0008] Batteries are used to provide power for monitoring devices, signal processing systems, and displays.

[0009] Furthermore, the monitoring device includes a first sensor, a second sensor, and a third sensor; the monitoring device is equipped with a housing, a scale, and a rod.

[0010] The outer shell is provided with a first partition, which divides the interior of the outer shell into a first cavity and a second cavity;

[0011] The scale is located in the first cavity;

[0012] The marker includes a horizontal bar and a vertical bar. One end of the horizontal bar is connected above the vertical bar, and the other end is located above the scale. The vertical bar is located in the second cavity.

[0013] The first sensor is used to acquire a first height signal of the distance between the upper end of the scale and the crossbar; a float is provided at the lower end of the scale, and the scale floats above the liquid nitrogen;

[0014] The second sensor is used to acquire a second height signal of the crossbar from the upper end of the first cavity;

[0015] The third sensor is used to acquire the third altitude signal of the monitoring device embedded in the liquid nitrogen tank.

[0016] Furthermore, the monitoring device is embedded and fixed to the support plate;

[0017] The display is located above the support plate; the battery and signal processing system are located inside the support plate;

[0018] The output terminals of the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor are all connected to the input terminal of the signal processing system, and the output terminal of the signal processing system is connected to the input terminal of the display.

[0019] The batteries are connected to the monitoring device, the signal processing system, and the display, respectively.

[0020] Furthermore, the display is also used to receive a preset height signal of liquid nitrogen; the output of the display is connected to the input of the signal processing system.

[0021] Furthermore, the signal processing system is used to trigger a second control signal to control the display content of the display based on the real-time liquid nitrogen height and the preset height signal.

[0022] Furthermore, the monitoring device also includes a drive wheel;

[0023] The input end of the drive wheel is connected to the output end of the signal processing system;

[0024] The power wheel is used to adjust the sensing height of the monitoring device according to the second control signal of the signal processing system, thereby controlling the preset height setting of liquid nitrogen.

[0025] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention also provide a method for using a liquid nitrogen level monitoring device, comprising the following steps:

[0026] The height signal of the liquid nitrogen tank is acquired through a monitoring device; the height signal includes a first height signal, a second height signal, and a third height signal.

[0027] Based on the height signal from the liquid nitrogen tank, the liquid nitrogen height and liquid nitrogen height threshold are determined by the signal processing system, and a control signal is triggered to control the display content of the display. The display content includes the real-time liquid nitrogen height, the liquid nitrogen height threshold, and the liquid nitrogen setting reminder; the liquid nitrogen height threshold is the actual capacity height of the liquid nitrogen tank.

[0028] When the real-time liquid nitrogen height is lower than the liquid nitrogen height threshold, a liquid nitrogen setting reminder will be displayed on the screen until the real-time liquid nitrogen height reaches the liquid nitrogen height threshold.

[0029] Furthermore, the acquisition of the liquid nitrogen altitude signal via the monitoring device includes:

[0030] The acquisition of the liquid nitrogen altitude signal via the monitoring device includes:

[0031] The first height signal of the scale of the monitoring device is obtained by the first sensor of the monitoring device; a float is provided at the lower end of the scale, and the scale floats above the liquid nitrogen;

[0032] And, the second height signal of the monitoring device's pole is determined by the second sensor of the monitoring device;

[0033] And, the third height signal of the monitoring device embedded in the liquid nitrogen tank is obtained through the third sensor of the monitoring device.

[0034] Furthermore, it also includes a step of calculating the real-time altitude of liquid nitrogen using a signal processing system based on the first altitude signal and the second altitude signal. This step includes the following steps:

[0035] The first altitude signal and the second altitude signal are acquired through a signal processing system;

[0036] The real-time height of liquid nitrogen is calculated based on the first height signal and the second height signal, combined with the fixed height parameters of the monitoring device.

[0037] The fixed height parameters include the depth at which the buoy is submerged in liquid nitrogen, the length of the outer shell of the monitoring device, and the thickness of the support plate that fixes the monitoring device.

[0038] Furthermore, it also includes a step of setting a preset liquid nitrogen height based on a preset liquid nitrogen height signal, which includes the following steps:

[0039] The system receives a preset altitude signal from liquid nitrogen via a display; the display is a touchscreen display.

[0040] Based on the real-time liquid nitrogen height and the preset height signal, the signal processing system triggers a second control signal to control the display content of the display. The display content includes the real-time liquid nitrogen height, the preset liquid nitrogen height, and a liquid nitrogen setting reminder; the preset liquid nitrogen height is less than or equal to the liquid nitrogen height threshold.

[0041] When the real-time liquid nitrogen height is lower than the preset liquid nitrogen height, a liquid nitrogen setting reminder will be displayed on the screen until the real-time liquid nitrogen height reaches the preset liquid nitrogen height.

[0042] Furthermore, the step of setting the preset liquid nitrogen height based on the preset liquid nitrogen height signal further includes the following steps:

[0043] The monitoring device's sensing height is adjusted via its power wheel according to the second control signal from the signal processing system, thereby controlling the preset liquid nitrogen height setting.

[0044] One or more technical solutions in the above embodiments of the present invention have the following advantages: The embodiments of the present invention first measure and obtain the height signals of various height parameters in the liquid nitrogen tank through a monitoring device; then accurately determine the liquid nitrogen height through a signal processing system, which is convenient, fast and highly accurate; in addition, the present invention can also display the liquid nitrogen height and liquid nitrogen height threshold through a display, assisting the operator to accurately complete the liquid nitrogen addition work, which is highly practical. Attached Figure Description

[0045] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0046] Figure 1 This is an overall structural block diagram of a liquid nitrogen level monitoring device according to the present invention;

[0047] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the method of using a liquid nitrogen level monitoring device according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The present invention will be further explained and described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. The step numbers in the embodiments of the present invention are only set for ease of explanation and description, and there is no limitation on the order between the steps. The execution order of each step in the embodiments can be adaptively adjusted according to the understanding of those skilled in the art.

[0049] This embodiment first describes the specific structure of the liquid nitrogen height monitoring device of the present invention as follows:

[0050] Reference Figure 1 This invention provides a liquid nitrogen height monitoring device, comprising: a support plate 1, a monitoring device 2, a signal processing system 3, a display 4, and a battery 5. The monitoring device 2 is cylindrical and consists of a housing 6, a drive wheel 7, a fixed wheel 8, a sensor, a marker 9, and a buoy 10. The signal processing system 3 is located within the support plate 1 and controls the rotation of the drive wheel 7 based on sensor signals. The battery 5, located within the support plate 1, provides power to the signal processing system 3, the display 4, the drive wheel 7, and the sensor.

[0051] As a further preferred embodiment, the support plate 1 has a circular hole at one end, and the inner wall of the hole is threaded. The monitoring device 2 passes through the hole and is installed on the support plate 1, and can move up and down on the support plate 1. A semi-circular groove is provided below the support plate 1, and the diameter of the groove is larger than the diameter of the basket rod 100. When the support plate 1 is placed at the mouth of the liquid nitrogen tank, the basket rod 100 suspended at the mouth of the tank can be placed in the groove below the support plate 1. A fixed plate 11 and a movable plate 12 are provided below the support plate 1.

[0052] As a further preferred embodiment, the fixing plate 11 is located below the support plate 1, and the fixing plate 11 is closer to the monitoring device 2. The fixing plate 11 has a notch in the middle, which communicates with a groove below the support plate 1. The diameter of the notch in the fixing plate 11 is larger than the diameter of the basket rod 100. The basket rod 100, suspended on the inner wall of the liquid nitrogen tank, can pass through the notch in the middle of the fixing plate 11.

[0053] As a further preferred embodiment, the movable plate 12 is located below the support plate 1, and the notch in the middle of the movable plate 12 communicates with the groove below the support plate 1. The diameter of the notch in the movable plate 12 is larger than the diameter of the basket rod 100. The basket rod 100, protruding from the outer wall of the liquid nitrogen tank, can pass through the notch in the middle of the movable plate 12. One end of the movable plate 12 is connected to the handle 13.

[0054] Further, as a preferred embodiment, the handle 13 is located in the middle of the support plate 1, with one end of the handle 13 inside the support plate 1 and the other end protruding from the side wall of the support plate 1. One end of the handle 13 inside the support plate 1 is connected to the movable plate 12. A spring 14 is provided on the handle 13, with one end of the spring 14 located on the side wall of the support plate 1 and the other end located at the connection between the handle 13 and the movable plate 12. In use, pulling the handle 13 protruding from the outer wall of the support plate 1 compresses the spring 14, increasing the distance between the movable plate 12 and the fixed plate 11. The fixed plate 11 is placed on the inner wall of the liquid nitrogen tank, and the movable plate 12 is placed on the outer wall of the liquid nitrogen tank. The basket rod 100 passes through the notch between the movable plate 12 and the fixed plate 11. Releasing the handle 13 extends the spring 14, and the movable plate 12 and the fixed plate 11 are pressed tightly against the side wall of the liquid nitrogen tank under the elastic force of the spring 14, thereby fixing the support plate 1 above the opening of the liquid nitrogen tank.

[0055] As a further preferred embodiment, the monitoring device 2 is a cylinder, and the monitoring device 2 consists of a housing 6, a power wheel 7, a sensor, a marker 9, and a buoy 10.

[0056] As a further preferred embodiment, the outer shell 6 is a cylinder with several holes on its wall. Alternatively, the outer shell 6 wall can be configured as a mesh structure. In use, liquid nitrogen can enter or flow out of the outer shell 6 through the holes. The outer wall of the outer shell 6 has a shell thread structure, and the shell thread structure corresponds one-to-one with the thread structure on the inner side wall of the circular hole of the support plate 1.

[0057] As a further preferred embodiment, a cover 15 is hinged to the top of the outer shell 6. The diameter of the cover 15 is larger than the inner diameter of the outer shell 6. When in use, the cover 15 can be opened. When not in use, the cover 15 seals the top of the outer shell 6 to prevent foreign objects from falling into the outer shell 6.

[0058] The outer casing 6 has a handle 16 on its upper part, which is a hollow plate. The operator can rotate the monitoring device 2 using the handle 16. Inside the outer casing 6 are a first partition 17, a marker 9, and a buoy 10. The first partition 17 has several holes, dividing the interior of the outer casing 6 into a first cavity 18 and a second cavity 19. The bottom of the outer casing 6 has a notch. A second partition 20 is located below the bottom of the outer casing 6.

[0059] Further, as a preferred embodiment, the second partition 20 is located on the outer wall of the outer shell 6. The bottom of the second partition 20 is on the same horizontal plane as the bottom of the inner wall of the outer shell 6. When the uppermost basket inside the liquid nitrogen tank is placed on the second partition 20, the bottom of the inner side of the outer shell 6 and the uppermost basket are also on the same horizontal plane. The second partition 20 has a notch in the middle. The basket rod 100 on the basket can pass through the notch. The second partition 20 has a protrusion 21. The second partition 20 is rotatably installed on the bottom of the outer shell 6. Specifically, the bottom of the outer shell 6 is provided with a recess 22, and the upper part of the second partition 20 is provided with a protrusion 21. The recess 22 and the protrusion 21 are engaged with each other and can rotate relative to each other.

[0060] It should be noted that the C-shaped notch is mainly for the basket railing to pass through, and can be other shapes, or even composed of two second partitions, with the distance between the two second partitions being greater than the diameter of the basket railing.

[0061] As a further preferred embodiment, the buoy 10 is located in the first cavity 18 within the outer shell 6. The buoy 10 can float above the liquid nitrogen and is used to display the distance between the liquid nitrogen in the liquid nitrogen tank and the uppermost basket. The buoy 10 consists of a float 23 and a scale 24.

[0062] As a further preferred embodiment, the float 23 is a sealed hollow cylinder, and the diameter of the float 23 is smaller than the inner diameter of the first cavity 18, allowing the float 23 to move up and down within the first cavity 18. When liquid nitrogen enters the first cavity 18, the float 23 can float on the liquid nitrogen.

[0063] As a further preferred embodiment, one end of the scale 24 is connected to the float 23, and the other end of the scale 24 protrudes from the top of the outer shell 6.

[0064] As a further preferred embodiment, the marker 9 is located in the second cavity 19 inside the outer casing 6, the marker 9 is in the shape of a "7", and the marker 9 is composed of a horizontal bar 25 and a vertical bar 26.

[0065] As a further preferred embodiment, one end of the longitudinal rod 26 protrudes from the top of the outer casing 6. The longitudinal rod 26 is located between the drive wheel 7 and the fixed wheel 8. The side wall of the longitudinal rod 26 has a gear structure, which corresponds one-to-one with the gears on the drive wheel 7 and the fixed wheel 8. The rotation of the drive wheel 7 causes the longitudinal rod 26 inside the outer casing 6 to rise or fall.

[0066] It should be noted that the fixed wheel can also rotate, but it doesn't have an internal power unit; its main purpose is to cooperate with the drive wheel. The fixed wheel can also be replaced with a drive wheel. In this case, only the two drive wheels need to rotate synchronously to ensure the rise or fall of the longitudinal rod.

[0067] As a further preferred embodiment, the crossbar 25 is located above the vertical bar 26, one end of the crossbar 25 is connected to the vertical bar 26, the crossbar 25 is perpendicular to the vertical bar 26, and the crossbar 25 is located directly above the scale 24. When the vertical bar 26 contacts the bottom of the outer casing 6, the crossbar 25 can press down on the scale 24, so that the scale 24 is inside the outer casing 6, protecting the scale 24 and preventing the scale 24 from breaking accidentally.

[0068] As a further preferred embodiment, the sensor is composed of a first sensor 27, a second sensor 28 and a third sensor 29, and the output terminal of the sensor is connected to the input terminal of the signal processing system 3.

[0069] As a further preferred embodiment, the first sensor 27 is located on the scale 24 and directly below the crossbar 25. The first sensor 27 is used to sense whether the scale is in contact with the crossbar. The first sensor 27 can be a photoelectric proximity switch, an inductive proximity switch, a capacitive proximity switch, a Hall effect proximity switch, or a laser rangefinder. (The first sensor 27 is preferably a distance sensor, which can measure the change in distance between the scale 24 and the crossbar 25. The following will describe its usage in detail, using the first sensor 27 as a distance sensor.)

[0070] As a further preferred embodiment, the second sensor 28 is placed on the crossbar 25, and the second sensor 28 is located directly above the first cavity 18. The second sensor 28 is a distance sensor and is used to measure the distance between the crossbar 25 and the top of the first cavity 18.

[0071] As a further preferred embodiment, the third sensor 29 is located on the support plate 1 and directly below the outer casing handle 16. The third sensor 29 is used to sense the distance between the support plate 1 and the outer casing handle 16.

[0072] As a further preferred embodiment, the drive wheel 7 is located on the inner wall of the outer casing 6, and is positioned above the outer casing 6. The drive wheel 7 is equipped with locking teeth, and contains a power device (such as an electric motor). The drive wheel 7 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise according to the control signal of the signal processing system 3. The input end of the drive wheel 7 is connected to the output end of the signal processing system 3, and the rotation of the drive wheel 7 can cause the pointer 9 to move up and down within the second cavity 19.

[0073] As a further preferred embodiment, the fixed wheel 8 is located inside and above the first partition plate 17, and the fixed wheel 8 and the drive wheel 7 are on the same horizontal plane. The fixed wheel 8 is provided with a locking tooth. When the drive wheel 7 rotates, the marker 9 moves up and down in the second cavity 19 through a gear structure on the side wall of the longitudinal rod 26. When the drive wheel 7 stops rotating, the fixed wheel 8 and the drive wheel 7 fix the marker 9 at a preset height, preventing the marker 9 from moving up and down.

[0074] As a further preferred embodiment, the battery 5 is located within the support plate 1, and the battery 5 provides power to the sensor, display 4, and signal processing system 3. The battery 5 can be implemented using existing batteries, etc.

[0075] As a further preferred embodiment, the display 4 is located above the support plate 1. It is used to display content based on control signals from the signal processing system 3, including preset liquid nitrogen level, device operating status, and information on added liquid nitrogen. The display 4 can be implemented using an existing touch display 4, which is connected to the signal processing system 3 via a general-purpose I / O interface. Furthermore, this invention also acquires user input signals through the touch display 4 and sends these input signals to the signal processing system 3.

[0076] As a further preferred embodiment, the signal processing system 3 is located within the support plate 1. The signal processing system 3 is used to trigger corresponding control signals based on the signals sent by the sensors, and then send the control signals to the display 4 and the drive wheel 7. The signal processing system 3 of the present invention does not involve any improvement in the data processing flow; its signal triggering process can be implemented using existing MCUs, and will not be described in detail here.

[0077] The following describes in detail the specific implementation steps of the method of using the liquid nitrogen level monitoring device of the present invention. Figure 2 As shown:

[0078] The height signal of the liquid nitrogen tank is acquired through a monitoring device; the height signal includes a first height signal, a second height signal, and a third height signal.

[0079] Based on the height signal from the liquid nitrogen tank, the liquid nitrogen height and liquid nitrogen height threshold are determined by the signal processing system, and a control signal is triggered to control the display content of the display. The display content includes the real-time liquid nitrogen height, the liquid nitrogen height threshold, and the liquid nitrogen setting reminder; the liquid nitrogen height threshold is the actual capacity height of the liquid nitrogen tank.

[0080] When the real-time liquid nitrogen height is lower than the liquid nitrogen height threshold, a liquid nitrogen setting reminder will be displayed on the screen until the real-time liquid nitrogen height reaches the liquid nitrogen height threshold.

[0081] Further, as a preferred embodiment, acquiring the liquid nitrogen height signal through the monitoring device includes:

[0082] The first height signal of the scale of the monitoring device is obtained by the first sensor of the monitoring device; a float is provided at the lower end of the scale, and the scale floats above the liquid nitrogen;

[0083] And, the second height signal of the monitoring device's pole is determined by the second sensor of the monitoring device;

[0084] And, the third height signal of the monitoring device embedded in the liquid nitrogen tank is obtained through the third sensor of the monitoring device.

[0085] As a further preferred embodiment, the method further includes a step of calculating the real-time altitude of the liquid nitrogen using a signal processing system based on the first altitude signal and the second altitude signal. This step includes the following steps:

[0086] The first altitude signal and the second altitude signal are acquired through a signal processing system;

[0087] The real-time height of liquid nitrogen is calculated based on the first height signal and the second height signal, combined with the fixed height parameters of the monitoring device.

[0088] The fixed height parameters include the depth at which the buoy is submerged in liquid nitrogen, the length of the outer shell of the monitoring device, and the thickness of the support plate that fixes the monitoring device.

[0089] As a further preferred embodiment, the method also includes a step of setting a preset liquid nitrogen height based on a preset liquid nitrogen height signal, which includes the following steps:

[0090] The system receives a preset altitude signal from liquid nitrogen via a display; the display is a touchscreen display.

[0091] Based on the real-time liquid nitrogen height and the preset height signal, the signal processing system triggers a second control signal to control the display content of the display. The display content includes the real-time liquid nitrogen height, the preset liquid nitrogen height, and a liquid nitrogen setting reminder; the preset liquid nitrogen height is less than or equal to the liquid nitrogen height threshold.

[0092] When the real-time liquid nitrogen height is lower than the preset liquid nitrogen height, a liquid nitrogen setting reminder will be displayed on the screen until the real-time liquid nitrogen height reaches the preset liquid nitrogen height.

[0093] As a further preferred embodiment, the step of setting the preset liquid nitrogen height based on the preset liquid nitrogen height signal further includes the following steps:

[0094] The monitoring device's sensing height is adjusted via its power wheel according to the second control signal from the signal processing system, thereby controlling the preset liquid nitrogen height setting.

[0095] The workflow and liquid nitrogen height determination method of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments:

[0096] 1. Place the device.

[0097] The operator inserts the monitoring device through the notch in the second partition into the basket railing of the liquid nitrogen tank that needs to be replenished with liquid nitrogen. Then, the support plate is fixed above the opening of the liquid nitrogen tank. The operator rotates the outer casing handle to slowly lower the monitoring device until it can no longer be lowered. At this point, the bottom of the second partition is located in the uppermost basket. Since the bottom of the second partition is on the same horizontal plane as the bottom of the inner wall of the outer casing, the bottom of the inner side of the outer casing is on the same horizontal plane as the uppermost basket.

[0098] 2. The operator monitors the liquid nitrogen level inside the liquid nitrogen tank.

[0099] The horizontal bar is positioned above the scale, with the top of the scale touching the bottom of the horizontal bar. When the vertical bar touches the bottom of the casing, the distance L between the horizontal bar and the scale is measured by the first sensor. 感1 This equals the distance between the horizontal bar and the scale being 0, i.e., L. 感1 =0.

[0100] The second sensor is fixed to the crossbar. When the vertical bar contacts the bottom of the housing, the second sensor measures a distance L. 感2 Equal to the distance d1 between the crossbar and the top of the first cavity, i.e., L 感2 =d1, the value of d1 remains constant within the same device.

[0101] When L 感1 When the value is 0, the drive wheel rotates, causing the marker pole and crossbar to rise. Simultaneously, the buoy rises under the buoyancy of the liquid nitrogen. Until L... 感1 >0, when L 感1 When the distance is greater than 0, the drive wheel stops rotating, and the second sensor measures the distance L between the crossbar and the top of the first cavity. 2x .

[0102] Inside the liquid nitrogen tank, the current liquid nitrogen level H is the distance changed when the power wheel rotates and stops, as measured by the second sensor, i.e.: H = L 2x -L 感2 .

[0103] 3. The operator prepares to add liquid nitrogen and monitors the amount of liquid nitrogen in real time.

[0104] 3.1 The operator inputs the expected height H between the top basket and the point where liquid nitrogen is to be added via a touchscreen display. 液 and the length L of the cap塞 .

[0105] In the same device, the length L of the housing of the monitoring device used is... 壳 It is fixed; the third sensor is fixed to the support plate, and the distance d2 between the third sensor and the bottom of the support plate is fixed.

[0106] After the device is in place, the support plate is positioned above the opening of the liquid nitrogen tank for replenishing liquid nitrogen. Rotate the outer casing handle to slowly lower the monitoring device until it can no longer descend. The second partition is positioned below the top basket. At this time, the third sensor measures the distance L1 between the third sensor and the outer casing handle.

[0107] 3.2 Calculate the height H1 of the monitoring device's outer casing inside the liquid nitrogen tank.

[0108] H1=L 壳 -(L1+d2)

[0109] 3.3 Determine the preset liquid nitrogen height H. 液 Can a liquid nitrogen tank of length L be placed inside? 塞 plug

[0110] When H 液 +L 塞 ≥H1, do not insert the stopper after adding liquid nitrogen; H 液 +L 塞

[0111] 4. Adjust the height of the marker.

[0112] 4.1 The second sensor is fixed to the crossbar. When the vertical bar contacts the bottom of the housing, the distance d1 sensed by the second sensor is the distance between the crossbar and the top of the first cavity. In the same device, this distance d1 is fixed.

[0113] 4.2 When the buoy floats on liquid nitrogen, a portion of the float below the buoy tube will be submerged in the liquid nitrogen due to the buoy's gravity. In the same device, the weight of the buoy and the size of the buoy tube are fixed, and the density of the liquid nitrogen is constant. Therefore, the immersion depth H in the liquid nitrogen is... 深 It is fixed.

[0114] Therefore, immersed in liquid nitrogen to a depth H 深 It is fixed.

[0115] Therefore, the actual height H that the benchmark needs to rise to is... 标

[0116] H 标 =(d+H 液 )-H 深

[0117] ​When the operator sets H via the touchscreen display 液 Then, the second sensor continuously measures the distance L between the crossbar and the top of the first cavity. 2x ,

[0118] When L 2x >H 标 At that time, the display showed that the set liquid level had been reached.

[0119] When L 2x <H 标 At that time, the drive wheel rotates, causing the longitudinal rod to rise until L. 2x =H 标 The display shows "Please add liquid nitrogen." The first sensor measures the distance L0 between the crossbar and the scale.

[0120] 4.3 Add liquid nitrogen

[0121] The first sensor measures the distance Lt1, Lt2, Lt3, and Lt4 between the horizontal bar and the scale at different time points t1, t2, t3, and t4.

[0122] When Lt1 = Lt2 = Lt3 = Lt4 = L0, it means that no liquid nitrogen has been added, and the display will show that you should add liquid nitrogen as soon as possible.

[0123] When L0 = Lt1 = Lt2 > Lt3 > Lt4, it indicates that liquid nitrogen has started to be added, and the display shows the estimated completion time. t 预 .

[0124] Calculate the estimated completion time t 预 Method,

[0125] When liquid nitrogen is added, the first sensor measures the distance Lt1, Lt2, Lt3, and Lt4 between the crossbar and the scale at different time points t1, t2, t3, and t4.

[0126] Calculate the rate V1 of adding liquid nitrogen at two adjacent time points t1 and t2.

[0127]

[0128] After time t2, the estimated completion time is... t 预

[0129]

[0130] And so on, after time t3, the estimated completion time is... t 预

[0131]

[0132] Until the first sensor measures the distance L again 感1 The value is 0. The monitor indicates that liquid nitrogen has been added.

[0133] In summary, this invention first measures and acquires the height signals of various height parameters inside the liquid nitrogen tank through a monitoring device; then, it accurately determines the liquid nitrogen height through a signal processing system, which is convenient, fast, and highly accurate. Furthermore, this invention can display the liquid nitrogen height on a monitor, assisting the operator in accurately completing the liquid nitrogen addition process, making it highly practical. During use, the operator inserts the monitoring device through the notch in the second partition into the basket railing of the liquid nitrogen tank, and then fixes the support plate above the tank opening. Rotating the outer handle allows the monitoring device to slowly descend until it can no longer descend. The device automatically calculates the current liquid level and displays it on the monitor. When pouring liquid nitrogen into the tank, the operator can set the desired immersion height of the top basket through the monitor. The device monitors the pouring rate and estimated time in real time, continuously reminding the operator to ensure that the liquid nitrogen level in the tank reaches the set height. Samples stored in the top basket are also safely and effectively immersed in liquid nitrogen, ensuring the storage quality of biological samples and preventing the addition of excessive liquid nitrogen. The cap must not be placed inside the liquid nitrogen tank. It is easy to operate, widely applicable, and provides a good user experience.

[0134] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0135] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

[0136] The above is a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described. Those skilled in the art can make various equivalent modifications or substitutions without departing from the spirit of the present invention. All such equivalent modifications or substitutions are included within the scope defined by the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A liquid nitrogen height monitoring device, characterized in that: include: A monitoring device is used to acquire the height signal of the liquid nitrogen tank; the height signal includes a first height signal, a second height signal, and a third height signal. The monitoring device includes a first sensor, a second sensor, and a third sensor; the monitoring device is equipped with a housing, a ruler, and a rod. The outer shell is provided with a first partition, which divides the interior of the outer shell into a first cavity and a second cavity; The scale is located in the first cavity; The marker includes a horizontal bar and a vertical bar. One end of the horizontal bar is connected above the vertical bar, and the other end is located above the scale. The vertical bar is located in the second cavity. The first sensor is used to acquire a first height signal of the distance between the upper end of the scale and the crossbar; a float is provided at the lower end of the scale, and the scale floats above the liquid nitrogen; The second sensor is used to acquire a second height signal of the crossbar from the upper end of the first cavity; The third sensor is used to acquire the third height signal of the monitoring device embedded in the liquid nitrogen tank; The signal processing system is used to determine the liquid nitrogen height and liquid nitrogen height threshold based on the height signal of the liquid nitrogen tank, and to trigger control signals to control the display content of the display. The signal processing system is further used to calculate the real-time liquid nitrogen altitude based on the first altitude signal and the second altitude signal, including the following steps: The first altitude signal and the second altitude signal are acquired through a signal processing system; The real-time height of liquid nitrogen is calculated based on the first height signal and the second height signal, combined with the fixed height parameters of the monitoring device. The fixed height parameters include the depth at which the buoy is submerged in liquid nitrogen, the length of the outer shell of the monitoring device, and the thickness of the support plate that fixes the monitoring device. A display is used to show content based on control signals from a signal processing system. The display is also used to receive a preset height signal of liquid nitrogen; the display is a touch screen display. The signal processing system is further configured to trigger a second control signal to control the display content of the display based on the real-time liquid nitrogen height and the preset height signal. The display content includes the real-time liquid nitrogen height, the preset liquid nitrogen height, and a liquid nitrogen setting reminder. The preset liquid nitrogen height is less than or equal to the liquid nitrogen height threshold. When the real-time liquid nitrogen height is lower than the preset liquid nitrogen height, a liquid nitrogen setting reminder will be displayed on the screen until the real-time liquid nitrogen height reaches the preset liquid nitrogen height. The expression for the third altitude signal of the monitoring device embedded in the liquid nitrogen tank is as follows: H1=L 壳 -(L1+d2), where H1 represents the third height signal of the monitoring device embedded in the liquid nitrogen tank, L 壳 The length of the monitoring device's casing is represented by L1, the distance between the third sensor and the casing handle is represented by d2, and the distance between the third sensor and the bottom of the support plate is represented by d2. The third height signal is used to determine the preset liquid nitrogen height H to be added. 液 Can a liquid nitrogen tank of length L be placed inside? 塞 The cap, H 液 Determined based on a preset altitude signal; Batteries are used to provide power for monitoring devices, signal processing systems, and displays.

2. The liquid nitrogen height monitoring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The monitoring device is embedded and fixed to the support plate; The display is located above the support plate; the battery and signal processing system are located inside the support plate; The output terminals of the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor are all connected to the input terminal of the signal processing system, and the output terminal of the signal processing system is connected to the input terminal of the display. The batteries are connected to the monitoring device, the signal processing system, and the display, respectively.

3. The liquid nitrogen height monitoring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The display is also used to receive a preset height signal of liquid nitrogen; the output of the display is connected to the input of the signal processing system. Furthermore, the signal processing system is used to trigger a second control signal to control the display content of the display based on the real-time liquid nitrogen height and the preset height signal.

4. The liquid nitrogen height monitoring device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The monitoring device also includes a power wheel; The input end of the drive wheel is connected to the output end of the signal processing system; The power wheel is used to adjust the sensing height of the monitoring device according to the second control signal of the signal processing system, thereby controlling the preset height setting of liquid nitrogen.

5. A method of using a liquid nitrogen level monitoring device, applied to the liquid nitrogen level monitoring device as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The method includes the following steps: The height signal of the liquid nitrogen tank is acquired through a monitoring device; the height signal includes a first height signal, a second height signal, and a third height signal. The acquisition of the liquid nitrogen altitude signal via the monitoring device includes: The first height signal of the scale of the monitoring device is obtained by the first sensor of the monitoring device; a float is provided at the lower end of the scale, and the scale floats above the liquid nitrogen; And, the second height signal of the monitoring device's pole is determined by the second sensor of the monitoring device; And, the third height signal of the monitoring device embedded in the liquid nitrogen tank is obtained through the third sensor of the monitoring device; Based on the height signal from the liquid nitrogen tank, the liquid nitrogen height and liquid nitrogen height threshold are determined by the signal processing system, and a control signal is triggered to control the display content of the display. The display content includes the real-time liquid nitrogen height, the liquid nitrogen height threshold, and the liquid nitrogen setting reminder; the liquid nitrogen height threshold is the actual capacity height of the liquid nitrogen tank. When the real-time liquid nitrogen height is lower than the liquid nitrogen height threshold, a liquid nitrogen setting reminder will be displayed on the screen until the real-time liquid nitrogen height reaches the liquid nitrogen height threshold. The method further includes a step of calculating the real-time altitude of liquid nitrogen using a signal processing system based on the first altitude signal and the second altitude signal. This step includes the following steps: The first altitude signal and the second altitude signal are acquired through a signal processing system; The real-time height of liquid nitrogen is calculated based on the first height signal and the second height signal, combined with the fixed height parameters of the monitoring device. The fixed height parameters include the depth at which the buoy is submerged in liquid nitrogen, the length of the outer shell of the monitoring device, and the thickness of the support plate that fixes the monitoring device. The method further includes a step of setting a preset liquid nitrogen height based on a preset liquid nitrogen height signal, which includes the following steps: The system receives a preset altitude signal from liquid nitrogen via a display; the display is a touchscreen display. Based on the real-time liquid nitrogen height and the preset height signal, the signal processing system triggers a second control signal to control the display content of the display. The display content includes the real-time liquid nitrogen height, the preset liquid nitrogen height, and a liquid nitrogen setting reminder; the preset liquid nitrogen height is less than or equal to the liquid nitrogen height threshold. When the real-time liquid nitrogen height is lower than the preset liquid nitrogen height, a liquid nitrogen setting reminder will be displayed on the screen until the real-time liquid nitrogen height reaches the preset liquid nitrogen height. The expression for the third altitude signal of the monitoring device embedded in the liquid nitrogen tank is as follows: H1=L 壳 -(L1+d2), where H1 represents the third height signal of the monitoring device embedded in the liquid nitrogen tank, L 壳 The length of the monitoring device's casing is represented by L1, the distance between the third sensor and the casing handle is represented by d2, and the distance between the third sensor and the bottom of the support plate is represented by d2. The third height signal is used to determine the preset liquid nitrogen height H to be added. 液 Can a liquid nitrogen tank of length L be placed inside? 塞 The cap, H 液 Determined based on a preset altitude signal.

6. The method of using the liquid nitrogen height monitoring device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The step of setting the preset liquid nitrogen height based on the preset height signal of liquid nitrogen further includes the following steps: The monitoring device's sensing height is adjusted via its power wheel according to the second control signal from the signal processing system, thereby controlling the preset liquid nitrogen height setting.

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