Refrigeration system

Abstract

This invention provides a refrigeration system comprising a refrigeration transfer device and a negative pressure vaporization device. The refrigeration transfer device is detachably connected to the negative pressure vaporization device. The refrigeration transfer device has an inner cavity for containing refrigerant. When the refrigeration transfer device is connected to the negative pressure vaporization device, the inner cavity is in communication with the negative pressure vaporization device. The negative pressure vaporization device is used to draw negative pressure into the inner cavity, so that the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity is lower than its boiling point temperature under atmospheric pressure. Thus, by drawing negative pressure into the inner cavity of the refrigeration transfer device, the boiling point of the refrigerant is lowered, thereby reducing the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity of the refrigeration transfer device and increasing the cooling rate of biological tissues. This is beneficial for the vitrification of cryoprotectants, thereby reducing the concentration of cryoprotectants, mitigating refrigeration toxicity and damage, and improving the quality of refrigerated biological tissues.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a cryotherapy system. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of assisted reproduction, cryopreservation of embryos and oocytes is a crucial component, with vitrification being a commonly used embryo cryopreservation technique. This technique utilizes high-concentration cell preservation solutions to treat cells and tissues, thereby increasing the glass transition temperature, and also achieves more efficient vitrification by accelerating the cooling rate. Among specific methods for achieving vitrification, the Cryotop method is widely used due to its simplicity, high freezing rate, and high cell viability and development rate after vitrification.

[0003] The Cryotop method, proposed by Kuwayama in 2005, is a high-speed freezing method based on the principle of minimizing solution volume. This method uses a carrier made of a very thin, narrow plastic strip attached to a plastic handle. The procedure is performed under a stereomicroscope. First, oocytes are loaded onto the plastic carrier using a glass capillary tube with an inner diameter slightly larger than the cell diameter. Then, using the capillary principle, excess cryoprotectant around the oocytes is aspirated, leaving the oocytes covered only by a very thin liquid film. The plastic carrier carrying the oocytes is then inserted into liquid nitrogen for long-term preservation. This method can achieve a cooling rate of 12,000 ± 1,500 K / min. However, this method still has several problems, such as insufficient cell cooling rate, leading to the need for high concentrations of cryoprotectants, high cytotoxicity, and the inability to preserve cells with larger diameters. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a freezing system to solve a series of problems caused by insufficient cooling rate in existing cryopreservation of biological tissues.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides a refrigeration system, comprising: a refrigeration transfer device and a negative pressure vaporization device; the refrigeration transfer device is detachably connected to the negative pressure vaporization device; the refrigeration transfer device has an inner cavity for containing refrigerant;

[0006] When the refrigeration transfer device is connected to the negative pressure vaporization device, the inner cavity is connected to the negative pressure vaporization device; the negative pressure vaporization device is used to draw negative pressure into the inner cavity.

[0007] Optionally, in the refrigeration system, the refrigeration transfer device includes a container assembly and a cover assembly, the cover assembly being closably connected to the container assembly; when the cover assembly is connected to the container assembly, it closes to form the inner cavity.

[0008] Optionally, in the refrigeration system, the refrigeration transfer device further includes a first connecting component, which connects to the container assembly and communicates with the inner cavity, and the movable end of the first connecting component is used to connect to the negative pressure vaporization device.

[0009] Optionally, in the refrigeration system, the first connection assembly has a shut-off valve;

[0010] When the refrigeration transfer unit is connected to the negative pressure vaporization unit, the shut-off valve is turned on;

[0011] When the refrigeration transfer unit separates from the negative pressure vaporization unit, the shut-off valve closes.

[0012] Optionally, in the refrigeration system, the refrigeration transfer device further includes a discharge valve, which is connected to the container assembly and communicates with the inner cavity;

[0013] When the refrigeration transfer device is separated from the negative pressure vaporization device and the pressure in the inner cavity does not exceed a predetermined pressure, the discharge valve is closed.

[0014] When the refrigeration transfer device is separated from the negative pressure vaporization device, and the pressure in the inner cavity exceeds the predetermined pressure, the discharge valve is opened, and the inner cavity is depressurized until the pressure in the inner cavity does not exceed the predetermined pressure, at which point the discharge valve is closed; wherein the predetermined pressure is not less than the external atmospheric pressure.

[0015] Optionally, in the refrigeration system, the container assembly includes: an inner liner, a first insulation jacket, and a subcooler; the cover assembly includes: a subcooler sealing cover;

[0016] The first insulation sleeve is fitted over the inner liner; the first insulation sleeve and the inner liner are housed together in the subcooler; the subcooler sealing cover is detachably and sealingly connected to the subcooler.

[0017] Optionally, in the refrigeration system, the container assembly further includes a shock-absorbing pad located at the bottom outside the inner liner, abutting against both the inner liner and the subcooler.

[0018] Optionally, in the refrigeration system, the container assembly further includes: a first shell and a second insulation sleeve; the cover assembly further includes: a second shell and a third insulation sleeve; the first shell is used to be adapted to be connected to the second shell;

[0019] The second insulation sleeve is fitted over the subcooler; the second insulation sleeve and the subcooler are housed together in the first housing; the subcooler sealing cover is connected to the second housing through the third insulation sleeve.

[0020] Optionally, in the refrigeration system, the negative pressure vaporization device includes: a negative pressure pump and a second connecting assembly connected to the negative pressure pump; the negative pressure pump communicates with the inner cavity through the second connecting assembly and is used to draw negative pressure into the inner cavity.

[0021] Optionally, in the refrigeration system, the negative pressure vaporization device further includes: an air-wet vaporizer and / or an antibacterial filter; the air-wet vaporizer and / or the antibacterial filter is disposed between the negative pressure pump and the second connecting assembly.

[0022] Optionally, in the refrigeration system, the negative pressure vaporization device further includes: a fourth housing; the negative pressure pump and the second connecting assembly are housed in the fourth housing; the fourth housing is adapted to be connected to the first housing of the refrigeration transfer device.

[0023] Optionally, the refrigeration system further includes: an interactive device and / or a parameter prompting device;

[0024] The interactive device is installed on the negative pressure vaporization device; the interactive device allows for the interactive input of a predetermined temperature parameter, and the negative pressure vaporization device draws negative pressure into the inner cavity according to the predetermined temperature parameter, so that the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity is maintained within the temperature range corresponding to the predetermined temperature parameter.

[0025] The parameter prompting device is installed on the refrigeration transfer unit; the parameter prompting device is used to acquire and prompt at least one of the following: the positioning information of the refrigeration transfer unit, the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity, the pressure of the refrigerant, and the liquid level of the refrigerant.

[0026] In summary, the refrigeration system provided by the present invention includes: a refrigeration transfer device and a negative pressure vaporization device; the refrigeration transfer device is detachably connected to the negative pressure vaporization device; the refrigeration transfer device has an inner cavity for containing refrigerant; when the refrigeration transfer device is connected to the negative pressure vaporization device, the inner cavity is in communication with the negative pressure vaporization device; the negative pressure vaporization device is used to draw negative pressure into the inner cavity so that the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity is lower than its boiling point temperature under external atmospheric pressure.

[0027] This configuration, by using a negative pressure vaporization device to create negative pressure within the cryogenic transfer unit, lowers the boiling point of the refrigerant, thereby reducing the temperature of the refrigerant contained within the transfer unit and increasing the cooling rate of biological tissues. This benefits the vitrification of the cryoprotectant, reducing its concentration, mitigating cryogenic toxicity and damage, and improving the quality of cryopreserved biological tissues. Furthermore, it reduces the size limitations of the preserved biological tissues, enabling the preservation of larger tissues and broadening the preservation range. Moreover, the cryogenic transfer unit and the negative pressure vaporization device are separable. When combined, the vaporization device can create negative pressure within the transfer unit as needed, achieving precise temperature control; the entire refrigeration system can then function as a long-term vitrification cryopreservation system. When separated, the low-temperature refrigerant within the transfer unit remains at a low temperature for a certain period, facilitating the transfer of biological tissues. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Those skilled in the art will understand that the accompanying drawings are provided to better understand the invention and do not constitute any limitation on the scope of the invention. Wherein:

[0029] Figure 1 This is a front view of the refrigeration system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a side view of the refrigeration system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 3 This is a top view of the refrigeration system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 4 This is a front view of the refrigeration transfer device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 5 This is a side view of the refrigeration transfer device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 6 This is a top view of the refrigeration transfer device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 7 This is a front view of the negative pressure vaporization device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 8 This is a side view of the negative pressure vaporization device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 9 This is a top view of the negative pressure vaporization device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 10This is a rear view of the negative pressure vaporization device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 11 This is an exploded view of the refrigeration system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 12 This is an exploded side view of the refrigeration system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the container assembly and cover assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 14 This is an exploded view of the container assembly and cover assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 15 This is an exploded view of the negative pressure vaporization device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 16 This is an exploded side view of the negative pressure vaporization device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 17 This is a partial exploded view of the negative pressure vaporization device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] In the attached image:

[0047] 1-Refrigeration transfer unit; 11-Container assembly; 111-Inner liner; 112-First insulation jacket; 113-Subcooler; 114-Shock-absorbing pad; 115-First shell; 1151-Handle; 12-Lid assembly; 121-Subcooler sealing cover; 1211-Sealing ring; 122-Second shell; 1221-Handle; 13-First connecting assembly;

[0048] 2-Negative pressure vaporization device; 21-Negative pressure pump; 22-Second connecting assembly; 23-Air-wet vaporizer; 24-Antibacterial filter; 25-Fourth housing;

[0049] 3-Interactive device; 4-Parameter prompting device; 41-Display screen; 42-Function switching button; 5-Control device. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To make the objectives, advantages, and features of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that the drawings are all in a very simplified form and are not drawn to scale, and are only used to facilitate and clarify the explanation of the embodiments of this invention. Furthermore, the structures shown in the drawings are often part of the actual structures. In particular, different figures may emphasize different aspects and may sometimes use different scales.

[0051] As used in this invention, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural objects; the term “or” is generally used to mean “and / or”; the term “a number” is generally used to mean “at least one”; and the term “at least two” is generally used to mean “two or more”. Furthermore, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as “first,” “second,” or “third” may explicitly or implicitly include one or at least two of that feature; “one end” and “the other end,” and “proximal end” and “distal end” generally refer to two corresponding parts, which include not only endpoints. Furthermore, the terms "installed," "connected," and "attached," as used in this invention, and the term "set" on one element from another, should be interpreted broadly. They generally only indicate a connection, coupling, cooperation, or transmission relationship between the two elements, which can be direct or indirect through an intermediate element. They should not be construed as indicating or implying a spatial relationship between the two elements, meaning one element can be located inside, outside, above, below, or to one side of another element, unless otherwise explicitly stated. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances. Additionally, directional terms such as above, below, up, down, upward, downward, left, and right are used relative to exemplary embodiments as shown in the figures, with upward or upper directions pointing towards the top of the corresponding figure, and downward or lower directions pointing towards the bottom of the corresponding figure.

[0052] The purpose of this invention is to provide a freezing system to solve a series of problems caused by insufficient cooling rate in existing cryopreservation of biological tissues.

[0053] The following description refers to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] The inventors discovered that when using specific refrigerants to cryopreserve biological tissues (such as embryos or cells), these refrigerants possess specific temperatures under normal conditions. Taking liquid nitrogen as an example, in a normal atmospheric pressure environment (near one standard atmosphere), because the ambient temperature is higher than the boiling point of liquid nitrogen, it cannot be in a completely ideal adiabatic environment and will absorb heat from the external environment. This causes it to remain at its boiling point in equilibrium, with a small amount of liquid nitrogen continuously vaporizing, while simultaneously maintaining a normal atmospheric pressure boiling point of approximately -196°C. At this point, the cooling rate for biological tissues of a specific size is predictable. However, changing to a different refrigerant to increase the cooling rate, such as using a lower-temperature refrigerant like liquid helium, would significantly increase the operating costs.

[0055] The inventors further discovered that, according to the nitrogen three-phase diagram, liquid nitrogen can remain liquid up to -210°C. Liquid nitrogen with a temperature below its boiling point is called supercooled liquid nitrogen. Understandably, using supercooled liquid nitrogen can increase the cooling rate of biological tissues. This benefits, on the one hand, the vitrification of cryoprotectants, thereby reducing their concentration, mitigating refrigeration toxicity and damage, and improving the quality of refrigerated biological tissues. On the other hand, it reduces the limitations on the size of the preserved biological tissues, enabling the preservation of larger tissues and a wider range of preservation methods. This can also be extended to other refrigerants, such as liquid carbon dioxide or liquid helium; supercooled liquid carbon dioxide or liquid helium can achieve temperatures lower than their original boiling points, effectively improving refrigeration efficiency for these types of refrigerants. In the industrial age, producing supercooled refrigerants with temperatures lower than their original boiling points is not difficult. However, the application of supercooled refrigerants is limited in small-scale or portable applications because large refrigeration equipment is often fixed and inconvenient to transport. In particular, in some situations where biological tissues need to be transported under cryogenic conditions, the subcooled refrigerant produced in refrigeration equipment in factories often absorbs heat and rises to its boiling point when transported to the cryogenic transfer unit, making it difficult to use.

[0056] Please refer to Figures 1 to 3 Based on the above research, this embodiment of the invention provides a refrigeration system, comprising: a refrigeration transfer device 1 and a negative pressure vaporization device 2; the refrigeration transfer device 1 is detachably connected to the negative pressure vaporization device 2; the refrigeration transfer device 1 has an inner cavity for containing refrigerant; when the refrigeration transfer device 1 is connected to the negative pressure vaporization device 2, the inner cavity is in communication with the negative pressure vaporization device 2; the negative pressure vaporization device 2 is used to draw negative pressure into the inner cavity so that the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity is lower than its boiling point temperature under external atmospheric pressure.

[0057] By applying negative pressure to a specific refrigerant, its boiling point temperature can be lowered. Therefore, by applying negative pressure to the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity of the refrigeration transfer unit 1, lowering its temperature below its boiling point at atmospheric pressure, a subcooled refrigerant can be produced. Although some refrigerant is lost, this eliminates the need for bulky refrigeration equipment, allowing for the use of a smaller negative pressure vaporization device 2, effectively reducing the overall size of the refrigeration system and facilitating transport and relocation. When the refrigeration transfer unit 1 is connected to the negative pressure vaporization device 2, the latter maintains the refrigerant in a subcooled state by applying negative pressure to the inner cavity of the refrigeration transfer unit 1. Furthermore, the refrigeration transfer unit 1 and the negative pressure vaporization device 2 can be separated. After separation, the inner cavity of the refrigeration transfer unit 1 can return to atmospheric pressure, while the subcooled refrigerant remains subcooled for a period, enabling the transfer of the refrigeration transfer unit 1. Understandably, since the negative pressure vaporization device 2 draws negative pressure into the inner cavity of the refrigeration transfer device 1, it will extract gaseous refrigerant. Generally, gaseous refrigerant will be directly discharged to the outside. Therefore, the refrigerant should be selected as a type that does not pollute the environment. Refrigerants include, but are not limited to, nitrogen, carbon dioxide or helium.

[0058] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figures 1 to 17 This section illustrates an example of a refrigeration system. It is important to understand that... Figures 1 to 17 The example shown is merely one illustration of a refrigeration system and not a limitation thereof.

[0059] Please refer to Figures 4 to 6 as well as Figures 11 to 14 The refrigeration transfer device 1 includes a container assembly 11 and a cover assembly 12, wherein the cover assembly 12 is closable and connected to the container assembly 11; when the cover assembly 12 is connected to the container assembly 11, it closes to form the inner cavity.

[0060] Optionally, the container assembly 11 includes: an inner liner 111, a first insulation sleeve 112, and a subcooler 113; the cover assembly 12 includes: a subcooler sealing cover 121; the inner liner 111 is used to contain the refrigerant; the first insulation sleeve 112 is fitted over the inner liner 111; the first insulation sleeve 112 and the inner liner 111 are together contained in the subcooler 113; the subcooler sealing cover 121 is closably and sealingly connected to the subcooler 113.

[0061] In an alternative example, the inner liner 111 is a double-walled vacuum stainless steel drum with an open top. The interior of the inner liner 111 holds refrigerant, and its inner and / or outer surfaces are coated with silver to reduce radiative heat loss. The first insulation sleeve 112, made of ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer foam (EVA), is fitted over the inner liner 111 to reduce heat exchange between the refrigerant inside and outside the inner liner 111. The subcooler 113 is a barrel made of polyoxymethylene resin (POM) with an open top. The inner liner 111, encased in the first insulation sleeve 112, can be inserted into the subcooler 113 from its open end. The subcooler sealing cap 121 seals the open end of the subcooler 113, creating a relatively sealed inner cavity. This cavity can then be pressurized by the negative pressure vaporization device 2.

[0062] Optionally, the subcooler sealing cover 121 has a sealing ring 1211, which may be a silicone sealing ring. The sealing ring 1211 is adapted to the shape of the open end of the subcooler 113, and the subcooler sealing cover 121 can be sealed to the open end of the subcooler 113 through the sealing ring 1211. Preferably, the container assembly 11 further includes a shock-absorbing pad 114, which is housed in the subcooler 113 and located at the bottom outside the inner liner 111. The shock-absorbing pad 114 abuts against both the inner liner 111 and the subcooler 113, and can absorb vibrations from the refrigeration transfer device 1 during transport, reducing the vibration of the subcooler 113 and thus reducing refrigerant loss. The material of the shock-absorbing pad 114 may be foamed rubber.

[0063] Furthermore, the container assembly 11 further includes: a first housing 115 and a second insulation sleeve (located inside the first housing 115, not shown); the cover assembly 12 further includes: a second housing 122 and a third insulation sleeve (located inside the second housing 122, not shown); the first housing 115 and the second housing 122 are adaptedly connected; the second insulation sleeve is fitted over the subcooler 113; the second insulation sleeve and the subcooler 113 are together housed in the first housing 115; the subcooler sealing cover 121 is connected to the second housing 122 through the third insulation sleeve. Preferably, the first housing 115 and the second housing 122 are connected by snap-fit.

[0064] In an alternative example, the first housing 115 and the second housing 122 are made of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS) material, and the second and third insulation sleeves are made of EVA. The second insulation sleeve is fitted over the subcooler 113 to reduce heat exchange between the inside and outside of the subcooler 113. The third insulation sleeve is used to reduce heat exchange between the subcooler 113 and the outside through the subcooler sealing cover 121. The ABS first housing 115 and the second housing 122 have good mechanical properties, are impact-resistant, and are suitable for transfer and handling. Optionally, the first housing 115 has a handle 1151 for easy handling, and the second housing 122 has a handle 1221 for easy opening of the subcooler sealing cover 121.

[0065] Optionally, the refrigeration transfer device 1 further includes a first connecting component 13, which connects to the container assembly 11. For example, the first connecting component 13 is disposed at the bottom of the container assembly 11 and communicates with the inner cavity. The movable end of the first connecting component 13 is used to communicate with the negative pressure vaporization device 2. Further, the first connecting component 13 has a shut-off valve; when the refrigeration transfer device 1 is connected to the negative pressure vaporization device 2, the shut-off valve is open, allowing the inner cavity to communicate with the negative pressure vaporization device 2 through the first connecting component 13; when the refrigeration transfer device 1 is separated from the negative pressure vaporization device 2, the shut-off valve is closed. The first connecting component 13 mainly serves as a connection port to the negative pressure vaporization device 2. In one example, the first connecting component 13 may include a blind-plug interface, which can quickly and adaptably connect to the second connecting component 22 corresponding to the negative pressure vaporization device 2. In one example, the shut-off valve may be a solenoid valve or a manually operated valve.

[0066] Optionally, the refrigeration transfer device 1 further includes a discharge valve, which is connected to the container assembly 11 and communicates with the inner cavity. When the refrigeration transfer device 1 is separated from the negative pressure vaporization device 2 and the pressure in the inner cavity does not exceed a predetermined pressure, the discharge valve is closed. When the refrigeration transfer device 1 is separated from the negative pressure vaporization device 2 and the pressure in the inner cavity exceeds the predetermined pressure, the discharge valve is opened, and the inner cavity is depressurized until the pressure in the inner cavity does not exceed the predetermined pressure, at which point the discharge valve is closed. The predetermined pressure is not less than the external atmospheric pressure. The principle of the discharge valve is explained here: because the subcooler sealing cover 121 is sealed to the subcooler 113, the inner cavity forms a roughly closed space. The refrigerant contained inside will evaporate and vaporize due to heat absorption during conduction at normal external temperatures, causing the pressure inside the inner cavity to continuously rise. When the predetermined pressure is reached, the inner cavity needs to be depressurized to avoid excessive pressure inside the inner cavity. The predetermined pressure can be set differently depending on the material and structural form of the subcooler sealing cover 121 and the subcooler 113, as well as the external atmospheric pressure. For example, in low-altitude areas, the predetermined pressure can be set slightly higher than the standard atmospheric pressure (101.3 kPa). However, if the refrigeration transfer unit 1 is located in a high-altitude area, the predetermined pressure can be set lower due to the lower external atmospheric pressure. In one example, the discharge valve can be an electromagnetic one-way discharge valve or a pressure-controlled one-way discharge valve. Optionally, the discharge valve can be located at the bottom of the subcooler 113.

[0067] Optionally, the refrigeration transfer device 1 also includes a liquid replenishment interface, which can be used with an external automatic liquid replenishment device to replenish the inner tank 111 with refrigerant in real time to ensure a safe refrigeration liquid level.

[0068] Please refer to Figures 7 to 10 as well as Figures 15 to 17 The negative pressure vaporization device 2 includes a negative pressure pump 21 and a second connecting component 22 connected to the negative pressure pump 21. The negative pressure pump 21 communicates with the inner cavity through the second connecting component 22, and the negative pressure pump 21 is used to draw negative pressure into the inner cavity. The negative pressure pump 21 may be a vacuum pump. The second connecting component 22 is adapted to connect with the first connecting component 13 to allow communication between the inner cavity and the negative pressure vaporization device 2. In one embodiment, the second connecting component 22 is a blind-plug interface adapted to the first connecting component 13, where one of the second connecting component 22 and the first connecting component 13 is a male connector and the other is a female connector. In another embodiment, the first connecting component 13 and the second connecting component 22 are the same, that is, the refrigeration system has only one connecting component connecting the refrigeration transfer device 1 and the negative pressure vaporization device 2 respectively.

[0069] Preferably, the negative pressure vaporization device 2 further includes: an air-wet vaporizer 23 and / or an antibacterial filter 24; the air-wet vaporizer 23 and / or the antibacterial filter 24 are disposed between the negative pressure pump 21 and the second connecting assembly 22.

[0070] In one example, the air-humidifier 23 prevents low-temperature liquefied water from entering the negative pressure pump 21 when the negative pressure pump 21 draws negative pressure into the refrigerant-filled cavity. It is generally difficult to completely prevent water vapor from the outside air from entering the cavity and piping, but the air-humidifier 23 can remove condensed liquid water, preventing damage to the negative pressure pump 21. Preferably, the air-humidifier 23 has a heat exchanger, which can lower the ambient temperature of the negative pressure pump 21, enhance airflow, facilitate heat dissipation from the negative pressure pump 21, reduce losses, and improve efficiency. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific structure and principle of the air-humidifier 23 and the heat exchanger based on existing technology, and will not be elaborated here.

[0071] An antibacterial filter 24 is installed on the pipeline between the negative pressure pump 21 and the second connecting assembly 22, and it is used for sterilization filtration. The installation of the antibacterial filter 24 ensures that bacteria in the pipeline will not enter the inner cavity of the refrigeration transfer unit 1, thus ensuring that the refrigerant is in a sterile environment.

[0072] Optionally, the negative pressure vaporization device 2 further includes: a fourth housing 25; the negative pressure pump 21 and the second connecting assembly 22 are housed in the fourth housing 25; the fourth housing 25 is adapted to be connected to the first housing 115 of the refrigeration transfer device 1. In one example, the fourth housing 25 may be an ABS housing with a recessed area adapted to the shape of the first housing 115, on which the first housing 115 can sit. The fourth housing 25 is used to house components such as the negative pressure pump 21, the second connecting assembly 22, the air-humidifier 23, and the antibacterial filter 24. Preferably, the negative pressure vaporization device 2 also includes sound insulation cotton, which is disposed inside the fourth housing 25 to reduce the operating noise of the negative pressure vaporization device 2.

[0073] Optionally, the refrigeration system may further include an interactive device 3 and / or a parameter prompting device 4;

[0074] The interactive device 3 is mounted on the negative pressure vaporization device 2. The interactive device 3 allows for the input of predetermined temperature parameters. The negative pressure vaporization device 2 draws negative pressure into the inner cavity according to the predetermined temperature parameters, so that the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity is maintained within the temperature range corresponding to the predetermined temperature parameters. It is understood that based on the three-phase diagram of a specific refrigerant, its specific boiling point can be obtained when its pressure reaches a specific value. Therefore, by controlling the pressure value of the negative pressure pump 21, the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity of the refrigeration transfer unit 1 can be controlled and adjusted. In one example, the interactive device 3 includes a display screen and interactive buttons, and may also include a touch screen. The display screen can show the real-time operating time of the negative pressure pump 21, the PID parameters of the negative pressure pump 21, etc. The predetermined temperature parameters include the target temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity of the refrigeration transfer unit 1, the allowable temperature fluctuation, or the PID parameters, etc. For example, taking subcooled liquid nitrogen as an example, the target temperature can be set between -196℃ and -210℃, and the allowable temperature fluctuation can be set as needed, such as 1℃. In some embodiments, the temperature can also be adjusted and maintained according to the set PID parameters, and cooling and temperature control can be achieved through a program.

[0075] The parameter prompting device 4 is disposed on the refrigeration transfer unit 1; the parameter prompting device 4 is used to acquire and prompt at least one of the following: the positioning information of the refrigeration transfer unit 1, the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity, the pressure of the refrigerant, and the liquid level of the refrigerant. The positioning information may be GPS, BDS, or GNSS positioning information. The parameter prompting device 4 may include a display screen 41 and a function switching button 42, and the information displayed on the display screen 41 can be switched by pressing the function switching button 42.

[0076] Optionally, the refrigeration system further includes a control device 5, which can be integrated into the refrigeration transfer unit 1 or the negative pressure vaporization unit 2, or it can be set up independently. The control device 5 is communicatively connected to the negative pressure vaporization unit 2 and the parameter indication device 4, respectively. This connection can be wired or wireless, such as via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The control device 5 may include a PLC module, a positioning module, a transmission module, and a sensor module. The PLC module has a built-in PID calculation program, which can adjust the speed of the negative pressure pump 21, thereby accurately adjusting the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity of the refrigeration transfer unit 1. Optionally, the PLC module has a built-in depressurization program. When the pressure in the inner cavity rises to a predetermined pressure, the depressurization program can drive the discharge valve on the container assembly 11 to release pressure. The positioning module is used to acquire positioning information. The sensor module may include thermocouple temperature sensors, pressure sensors, and level gauges, which are used to acquire the temperature, pressure, and level of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity, respectively. The transmission module can be used to communicate with the negative pressure vaporization unit 2 and the parameter indication device 4. The transmission module may include a wireless module and / or a Bluetooth module. Furthermore, the transmission module can also be used to communicate with a mobile terminal (such as a mobile phone). In some embodiments, the operator can monitor at least one of the following via the mobile terminal: the location information of the refrigeration transfer device 1, the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity, the pressure of the refrigerant, and the liquid level of the refrigerant; or interact with the negative pressure vaporization device 2 via the mobile terminal to input predetermined temperature parameters.

[0077] The following describes the usage steps of the refrigeration system provided in this embodiment, using liquid nitrogen as a refrigerant as an example:

[0078] 1. Preparation process of supercooled liquid nitrogen:

[0079] Connect the refrigeration transfer device 1 to the assembly position of the first housing 115 and the fourth housing 25 of the negative pressure vaporization device 2. Use the blind plugs of the first connecting component 13 and the second connecting component 22 to help position the two, and then turn on the power supply of the negative pressure vaporization device 2.

[0080] Open the cover assembly 12 of the refrigeration transfer unit 1, and add liquid nitrogen to the inner liner 111 as needed. Alternatively, liquid nitrogen can be injected using the matching automatic liquid replenishment device. After adding liquid nitrogen, close the cover assembly 12, and fasten the snaps of the first housing 115 and the second housing 122 to complete the seal.

[0081] Input the predetermined temperature parameters on the interactive device 3, where the default value for the target temperature is -210℃. Click the confirmation start button, and the negative pressure pump 21 and the air-wet vaporizer 23 will start running. At this time, the temperature, pressure, or liquid level of the liquid nitrogen in the inner tank 111 can be monitored in real time through the display screen of the interactive device 3 and the parameter prompt device 4. When the liquid level is lower than the preset minimum liquid level value, the automatic liquid replenishment device will start to replenish the liquid in the inner tank 111 to ensure the liquid nitrogen level. When the temperature of the supercooled liquid nitrogen reaches the target temperature, the speed of the negative pressure pump 21 will be adjusted by the built-in PID calculation program of the PLC module to maintain a constant temperature and complete the preparation of supercooled liquid nitrogen.

[0082] 2. The freezing process of biological tissues:

[0083] After the preparation of supercooled liquid nitrogen is completed, the cover assembly 12 of the cryogenic transfer device 1 is opened. A single cryopreservation tube can be placed in for freezing, or a storage box containing multiple cryopreservation tubes can be placed in for freezing. Then, the cover assembly 12 is closed, and the buckles of the first shell 115 and the second shell 122 are fastened to complete the sealing.

[0084] Optionally, the cryogenic transfer unit 1 is equipped with visual barcode scanning recognition, which can be used to store the QR code information of the cryopreservation tubes for easy retrieval and monitoring. During this process, the temperature, pressure, or level of liquid nitrogen in the inner liner 111 can be monitored in real time via the parameter prompting device 4 or a mobile terminal. Understandably, the freezing process of biological tissues can be carried out after the cryogenic transfer unit 1 is separated from the negative pressure vaporization device 2, or it can be carried out while the cryogenic transfer unit 1 is connected to the negative pressure vaporization device 2. However, before opening the cover assembly 12, the negative pressure pump 21 of the negative pressure vaporization device 2 should have stopped running, so that the pressure in the inner cavity is approximately close to the external atmospheric pressure.

[0085] 3. Transshipment process:

[0086] The cryogenic transfer unit 1 has been separated from the negative pressure vaporization unit 2. After the cryopreservation of biological tissues is completed, the cryogenic transfer unit 1 can be transported by a matching AGV composite robot, or it can be operated by personnel as needed. During the transfer process, the location information of the cryogenic transfer unit 1, the temperature, pressure, and liquid level of liquid nitrogen can be monitored in real time via a mobile terminal to ensure the safety of the biological tissue transfer. If the pressure in the inner cavity rises to the predetermined pressure during the transfer process, the vent valve on the container assembly 11 will release the pressure to ensure storage safety.

[0087] In summary, the refrigeration system provided by the present invention includes: a refrigeration transfer device and a negative pressure vaporization device; the refrigeration transfer device is detachably connected to the negative pressure vaporization device; the refrigeration transfer device has an inner cavity for containing refrigerant; when the refrigeration transfer device is connected to the negative pressure vaporization device, the inner cavity is in communication with the negative pressure vaporization device; the negative pressure vaporization device is used to draw negative pressure into the inner cavity so that the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity is lower than its boiling point temperature under external atmospheric pressure.

[0088] This configuration, by using a negative pressure vaporization device to create negative pressure within the cryogenic transfer unit, lowers the boiling point of the refrigerant, thereby reducing the temperature of the refrigerant contained within the transfer unit and increasing the cooling rate of biological tissues. This benefits the vitrification of the cryoprotectant, reducing its concentration, mitigating cryogenic toxicity and damage, and improving the quality of cryopreserved biological tissues. Furthermore, it reduces the size limitations of the preserved biological tissues, enabling the preservation of larger tissues and broadening the preservation range. Moreover, the cryogenic transfer unit and the negative pressure vaporization device are separable. When combined, the vaporization device can create negative pressure within the transfer unit as needed, achieving precise temperature control; the entire refrigeration system can then function as a long-term vitrification cryopreservation system. When separated, the low-temperature refrigerant within the transfer unit remains at a low temperature for a certain period, facilitating the transfer of biological tissues.

[0089] It should be noted that the above embodiments can be combined with each other. The above description is only a description of preferred embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way. Any changes or modifications made by those skilled in the art based on the above disclosure shall fall within the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A refrigeration system, characterized in that, include: A refrigeration transfer unit and a negative pressure vaporization unit; the refrigeration transfer unit is detachably connected to the negative pressure vaporization unit; the refrigeration transfer unit has an inner cavity for containing refrigerant; When the refrigeration transfer device is connected to the negative pressure vaporization device, the inner cavity is in communication with the negative pressure vaporization device; the negative pressure vaporization device is used to draw negative pressure into the inner cavity; The refrigeration transfer device includes a first connecting component, and the negative pressure vaporization device includes a second connecting component. The first connecting component and the second connecting component each include a matching blind-plug interface, and the first connecting component can be adapted to be plugged into the second connecting component. The first connecting assembly has a shut-off valve; when the refrigeration transfer device is connected to the negative pressure vaporization device, the shut-off valve is open; when the refrigeration transfer device is separated from the negative pressure vaporization device, the shut-off valve is closed.

2. The refrigeration system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigeration transfer device includes a container assembly and a cover assembly, wherein the cover assembly is closable and connectable to the container assembly; when the cover assembly is connected to the container assembly, it closes to form the inner cavity.

3. The refrigeration system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first connecting component is connected to the container assembly and communicates with the inner cavity, and the movable end of the first connecting component is used to connect to the negative pressure vaporization device.

4. The refrigeration system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The refrigeration transfer device also includes a discharge valve, which is connected to the container assembly and communicates with the inner cavity; When the refrigeration transfer device is separated from the negative pressure vaporization device and the pressure in the inner cavity does not exceed a predetermined pressure, the discharge valve is closed. When the refrigeration transfer device is separated from the negative pressure vaporization device, and the pressure in the inner cavity exceeds the predetermined pressure, the discharge valve is opened, and the inner cavity is depressurized until the pressure in the inner cavity does not exceed the predetermined pressure, at which point the discharge valve is closed; wherein the predetermined pressure is not less than the external atmospheric pressure.

5. The refrigeration system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The container assembly includes: an inner liner, a first insulation jacket, and a subcooler; the cover assembly includes: a subcooler sealing cover; The first insulation sleeve is fitted over the inner liner; the first insulation sleeve and the inner liner are housed together in the subcooler; the subcooler sealing cover is detachably and sealingly connected to the subcooler.

6. The refrigeration system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The container assembly also includes a shock-absorbing pad located at the bottom outside the inner liner, abutting against both the inner liner and the subcooler.

7. The refrigeration system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The container assembly further includes: a first shell and a second insulation sleeve; the cover assembly further includes: a second shell and a third insulation sleeve; the first shell is used to be adapted to be connected to the second shell; The second insulation sleeve is fitted over the subcooler; the second insulation sleeve and the subcooler are housed together in the first housing; the subcooler sealing cover is connected to the second housing through the third insulation sleeve.

8. The refrigeration system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The negative pressure vaporization device includes a negative pressure pump; the negative pressure pump is connected to the inner cavity through the second connecting component and is used to draw negative pressure into the inner cavity.

9. The refrigeration system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The negative pressure vaporization device further includes: an air-wet vaporizer and / or an antibacterial filter; the air-wet vaporizer and / or the antibacterial filter are disposed between the negative pressure pump and the second connecting assembly.

10. The refrigeration system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The negative pressure vaporization device further includes: a fourth housing; the negative pressure pump and the second connecting assembly are housed in the fourth housing; the fourth housing is adapted to be connected to the first housing of the refrigeration transfer device.

11. The refrigeration system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigeration system further includes: an interactive device and / or a parameter prompting device; The interactive device is installed on the negative pressure vaporization device; the interactive device allows for the interactive input of a predetermined temperature parameter, and the negative pressure vaporization device draws negative pressure into the inner cavity according to the predetermined temperature parameter, so that the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity is maintained within the temperature range corresponding to the predetermined temperature parameter. The parameter prompting device is installed on the refrigeration transfer unit; the parameter prompting device is used to acquire and prompt at least one of the following: the positioning information of the refrigeration transfer unit, the temperature of the refrigerant contained in the inner cavity, the pressure of the refrigerant, and the liquid level of the refrigerant.

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