Multifunctional low-temperature automatic preservation system for biological samples

Abstract

The application discloses a multifunctional low-temperature automatic preservation system for biological samples, and relates to the technical field of cryopreservation of biological samples. The low-temperature storage cavity is arranged in the heat preservation part, and the frozen storage group and the rotating assembly are arranged in the low-temperature storage cavity; the transition part is provided with a transition area around the top taking and placing opening of the heat preservation part, and the driving assembly is arranged in the transition area; the taking and placing cavity is arranged in the heat preservation taking and placing part, and the bottom opening of the taking and placing cavity is communicated with the top of the low-temperature storage cavity; the bottom of the lifting part is arranged at the top of the heat preservation tank body in the transition area, the top of the lifting part is provided with the lifting assembly, and the lifting part of the lifting assembly can pass through the heat preservation taking and placing part, the transition part and the heat preservation part in sequence and extend into the heat preservation part; the control part is used for controlling the rotation of the rotating assembly through the driving assembly, the horizontal linear movement of the lifting assembly and the vertical lifting of the lifting part. The low-temperature automatic preservation of biological samples is realized, the liquid nitrogen freezing rack is automatically rotated, and the liquid nitrogen freezing rack is lifted.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of cryopreservation technology for biological samples, and more specifically to a multifunctional low-temperature automated preservation system for biological samples. Background Technology

[0002] Cryopreservation refers to the process of freezing biological samples (such as cells, tissues, blood, sperm, eggs, embryos, etc.) using low-temperature technology and storing them for a long period under appropriate conditions so that they can retain their viability or function after thawing. Cryopreservation has wide applications in medicine, agriculture, environmental protection, and scientific research. The basic principle of cryopreservation is to use low temperatures to slow down the rate of biochemical reactions within and between cells, preventing sample degradation during storage. At the same time, cryopreservation technology can also slow down the proliferation of pathogens, extending the shelf life of biological samples.

[0003] In the prior art, CN110654721B discloses a biological sample cryopreservation device and a biological sample transfer method. The biological sample cryopreservation device includes a storage container and a retrieval device fixed to the storage container. The storage container includes a tank capable of holding cryopreservation liquid and a container opening located at the top of the tank. The retrieval device includes a column, a horizontal arm, and a biological sample extraction unit. The column is provided with a vertically moving part that can move vertically along the column. The horizontal arm is provided with a horizontally moving part that can move horizontally along the horizontal arm. The horizontal arm is positioned on the vertically moving part, allowing it to move vertically up and down. The biological sample extraction unit is positioned on the horizontally moving part, allowing it to move horizontally.

[0004] However, existing technologies cannot solve the problem of achieving automatic rotation of the liquid nitrogen freezing rack and assisted lifting of the liquid nitrogen freezing rack. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application solves the problem in the prior art that it is impossible to achieve the functions of automatic rotation and assisted lifting of the liquid nitrogen freezing rack.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is: a multifunctional low-temperature automated preservation system for biological samples, comprising an insulation section, a transition section, an insulation loading and unloading section, a lifting section, and a control section.

[0007] The insulation section has a low-temperature storage cavity, in which multiple sets of cryopreservation units for preserving biological samples are placed, and a rotating component that drives the multiple sets of cryopreservation units to perform intermittent rotational motion.

[0008] The transition section has a transition area around the top opening of the insulation section, and a drive component for driving the rotating component is provided in the transition area.

[0009] The heat-insulating loading and unloading section has a loading and unloading cavity, and the bottom opening of the loading and unloading cavity is connected to the top of the low-temperature storage cavity;

[0010] The insulation section includes an insulation tank. The bottom of the lifting section is located at the top of the insulation tank located in the transition area. The top of the lifting section is provided with a lifting assembly that can move horizontally and linearly. The lifting part of the lifting assembly can pass through the insulation pick-and-place section and the transition section in sequence and extend into the insulation section.

[0011] The control unit is used to control the rotation of the rotating component through the drive component, to control the horizontal linear movement of the lifting component, and to control the vertical lifting of the lifting part;

[0012] The drive assembly includes a reducer, a chain, a driven wheel, a motor, and a drive wheel.

[0013] The reducer and the motor are both located at the top of the insulation tank in the transition area. The input end of the reducer is connected to the output end of the motor. The output end of the reducer is provided with a drive wheel. The rotating assembly includes a turntable and a rotating shaft. The part of the rotating shaft extending out of the insulation tank is provided with a driven wheel. The driven wheel and the drive wheel are connected to each other by a chain.

[0014] The heat-insulating loading and unloading section includes a cylindrical body with a loading and unloading cavity. A top opening is provided at the top of the cylindrical body, and a plug cover is placed on the top opening. A strip-shaped slit is formed in the middle of the plug cover. A spray assembly is provided on the inner wall of the upper section of the loading and unloading cavity, and a loading and unloading window assembly is provided in the lower middle section of the loading and unloading cavity.

[0015] The spray assembly includes a nozzle, an annular channel, and a vertical channel. The lower side of the annular channel has multiple output holes, and each output hole is provided with a nozzle. The upper side of the annular channel has an input hole, which is connected to the output end of the vertical channel.

[0016] The pick-and-place window assembly includes a pick-and-place door, a movable door, a strip observation hole, a limiting guide strip, a vertical slide groove, a vertical slider, and a locking bolt. The lower middle section of the pick-and-place cavity is provided with a pick-and-place window. A connecting piece is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the cylinder above the pick-and-place window. Limiting guide strips are provided on the left and right sides of the pick-and-place window.

[0017] The pick-up and drop-off window is equipped with a flip-open pick-up and drop-off door. The movable door is located between the cylinder and the pick-up and drop-off door. The left and right edges of the movable door are respectively slidably fitted to the inner side of the limiting guide strip. A vertical groove is vertically opened at the middle position of the movable door. The connecting piece is slidably fitted in the vertical groove. The part of the vertical groove above the connecting piece is slidably fitted with a vertical slider by a locking bolt. The vertical movement of the vertical slider can be locked by the locking bolt. A strip-shaped observation hole is opened at the position of the movable door below the vertical groove.

[0018] To better realize the present invention, the heat preservation tank has a low temperature storage cavity, and a sampling port for the heat preservation tank is opened at the top of the low temperature storage cavity. A heat preservation plug cover B and a heat preservation plug cover A are placed at the sampling port of the heat preservation tank.

[0019] The turntable is located at the lower section of the rotating shaft, and a frozen storage unit is placed on the turntable. The bottom of the rotating shaft is rotatably located at the center of the base of the insulated tank at the bottom of the insulated tank, and the top of the rotating shaft is rotatably located at the top of the insulated tank.

[0020] To better realize the present invention, the contact surface between the heat-insulating plug cover B and the heat-insulating plug cover A is a stepped surface.

[0021] To better realize the present invention, the cryogenic storage group further includes a liquid nitrogen freezing rack, and the area of ​​the insulated tank above the turntable forms multiple independent cryogenic placement areas. Each cryogenic placement area holds multiple liquid nitrogen freezing racks, and multiple cryogenic boxes are vertically arranged on the liquid nitrogen freezing racks.

[0022] To better realize the present invention, the lifting part further includes a lifting support frame, the lifting support frame being located at the top of the insulated tank body within the transition area, and the top of the lifting support frame being provided with a lifting assembly, the lifting assembly including an aluminum plate, a slide groove, a guide rail, a strip aluminum profile, a lifting frame, a side slider, a rotating wheel, a lifting motor, a chain lifting rope, a hook, a cable groove support frame, a tank chain cable groove, a ring chain, and a drive motor.

[0023] The aluminum plate is fixedly mounted on the top of the lifting support frame. A groove is provided on the upper surface of the aluminum plate, and a guide rail slides within the groove. A strip-shaped aluminum profile is provided on the upper surface of the guide rail. A lifting frame is provided at one end of the strip-shaped aluminum profile. A wheel is rotatably mounted within the lifting frame via a first rotating shaft. One end of the first rotating shaft is connected to the lifting motor. One end of the chain hoisting rope is mounted on the wheel, and the other end of the chain hoisting rope is equipped with a hook.

[0024] A groove support frame is provided on the upper surface of the aluminum plate on one side of the groove. The groove support frame has the tank chain groove on its upper surface. An annular chain is provided in the tank chain groove. A sprocket is rotatably provided on the upper surface of the groove support frame on the side away from the tank chain groove via a second rotating shaft. The portion of the annular chain extending out of the tank chain groove is connected to the sprocket. The drive motor is connected to one end of the second rotating shaft.

[0025] To better realize the present invention, the storage system further includes a first liquid level sensor, a liquid inlet pipe, a first temperature sensor, a second liquid level sensor, a replenishment valve, a liquid inlet valve, an exhaust valve, and a second temperature sensor.

[0026] The first liquid level sensor, the liquid inlet pipe, the first temperature sensor, and the second liquid level sensor are all located inside the insulation tank. The first liquid level sensor and the liquid inlet pipe are located near the lower surface of the turntable. The first temperature sensor is located on the outer peripheral wall of the turntable. The second liquid level sensor is located at the inner top of the insulation tank.

[0027] The replenishing valve, the inlet valve, and the vent valve are all located on the outer peripheral wall of the heat preservation tank. The inlet valve is connected to the replenishing valve, the replenishing valve is connected to the inlet pipe, the vent valve is connected between the replenishing valve and the inlet valve, and the vent valve is connected to the vertical channel.

[0028] The second temperature sensor is located inside the cylinder;

[0029] The control unit includes a controller.

[0030] When the controller receives a signal indicating that a designated freezing area is to be located below the sampling port of the insulated tank, the controller sends a start signal to the first actuator that controls the motor to start and stop, so that the motor is connected to the external power supply and the turntable rotates; when the freezing area is located below the sampling port of the insulated tank, the controller sends a stop signal to the first actuator that controls the motor to start and stop, so that the motor is disconnected from the external power supply.

[0031] When the controller receives a signal from the horizontally moving lifting assembly, the controller sends a start signal to the second actuator that controls the start and stop of the drive motor of the lifting assembly, so that the drive motor is connected to the external power supply, and the lifting assembly moves horizontally; when the lifting assembly moves to the designated position, the controller sends a stop signal to the second actuator that controls the start and stop of the drive motor of the lifting assembly, so that the drive motor is disconnected from the external power supply.

[0032] When the controller receives a signal to raise or lower the hook of the lifting assembly, the controller sends a start signal to the third actuator that controls the opening and closing of the lifting motor of the lifting assembly, so that the lifting motor is connected to the external power supply, causing the hook of the lifting motor to rise or fall; when the hook of the lifting motor rises or falls to the designated position, the controller sends a stop signal to the third actuator that controls the opening and closing of the lifting motor, so that the hook of the lifting motor is disconnected from the external power supply.

[0033] The controller receives the first liquid level signal detected by the first liquid level sensor and converts the first liquid level signal into a first digital signal. When the first digital signal is less than the preset liquid replenishment start value, the controller sends a first control signal to the liquid replenishment valve and the liquid inlet valve, and the liquid replenishment valve and the liquid inlet valve open, so that the external liquid is replenished to the bottom of the heat preservation tank through the liquid inlet pipe.

[0034] The controller receives a first temperature signal or a second temperature signal corresponding to the first temperature sensor or the second temperature sensor, and converts the first temperature signal or the second temperature signal into a second digital signal or a third digital signal respectively. When one of the second digital signal or the third digital signal is greater than the exhaust setting value preset in the corresponding control unit, the controller sends a second control signal to the liquid inlet valve and the exhaust valve, and the liquid inlet valve closes and the exhaust valve opens; otherwise, the controller sends a third control signal to the liquid inlet valve and the exhaust valve, and the liquid replenishment valve and the liquid inlet valve open and the exhaust valve closes.

[0035] The controller receives the second liquid level signal detected by the first liquid level sensor and converts the second liquid level signal into a second digital signal. When the second digital signal is greater than the preset liquid replenishment stop value, the controller sends a fourth control signal to the liquid replenishment valve, the liquid inlet valve and the vent valve, and the liquid replenishment valve, the liquid inlet valve and the vent valve are closed.

[0036] To better realize the present invention, the storage system further includes a laser locator disposed on one side of the lifting frame.

[0037] To better realize the present invention, a stepped frame is further provided on one side of the bottom of the insulated tank, and an endoscope is placed on the top of the insulated tank in the transition area.

[0038] The technical solution provided by this invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0039] 1. This invention, through the coordinated design of an insulation section, a transition section, an insulation pick-and-place section, a lifting section, and a control section, achieves automatic low-temperature preservation of biological samples on the one hand; on the other hand, it eliminates the need for manual rotation of the liquid nitrogen freezing rack to place the tray; the internal spray cooling of the insulation chamber keeps the cryopreservation box in a low-temperature range of -80℃ to -170℃ during storage and retrieval, ensuring that the sample is always in a protected state; and it assists in lifting the liquid nitrogen freezing rack.

[0040] 2. The present invention, through the coordinated design of the driving component and the rotating component, rotates the frozen placement area so that the liquid nitrogen freezing rack containing the pre-collected biological sample rotates to be directly below the sampling port of the insulated tank, making it convenient to pick up and put down.

[0041] 3. The present invention features a stepped design between the contact surfaces of the heat-insulating plug cover B and the heat-insulating plug cover A, which facilitates handling.

[0042] 4. This invention adapts to different biological samples by designing different freezing and placement areas.

[0043] 5. The present invention, through the design of the drive component being located in the transition area, allows the insulated tank to have a larger space.

[0044] 6. The present invention ensures that biological samples remain in a warm state during the handling process through the design of the cylinder, the pick-up and put-out door, the top opening of the cylinder, the plug cover, the strip slit of the plug cover, the movable door, the strip observation hole, the limiting guide strip, the nozzle, the annular channel, the vertical channel, the vertical slide groove, the vertical slider and the locking bolt.

[0045] 7. The present invention assists operators in retrieving the liquid nitrogen freezing rack through the coordinated design of the lifting part.

[0046] 8. Through the design of the control unit, this invention ensures, on the one hand, the automatic rotation of the liquid nitrogen freezing rack in the insulation section, the horizontal sliding of the lifting section, and the automatic lifting and lowering of the lifting components in the lifting section; on the other hand, it ensures the automatic implementation of liquid inlet, liquid replenishment, and venting.

[0047] 9. The present invention uses a laser positioner designed to work in conjunction with the lifting unit to locate the top lifting position of the liquid nitrogen freezing rack in a foggy state, making it easy to attach to the hook.

[0048] 10. The present invention provides sufficient height for operators to operate at the movable door through the design of the stepped shelf, and further facilitates the operator's identification of the required liquid nitrogen freezing rack position through the design of the endoscope, based on the laser locator. Attached Figure Description

[0049] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the 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.

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The front view;

[0052] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Sectional view at point AA;

[0053] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the middle cylinder without the insulation and loading / unloading section;

[0054] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Sectional view at point BB;

[0055] Figure 6 for Figure 1 3D schematic diagram of the middle cylinder without the insulation and loading / unloading section

[0056] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Enlarged view of point C in the middle;

[0057] Figure 8 A structural diagram showing the insulation tank without the middle section.

[0058] Figure 9 for Figure 8 Enlarged view of point D in the middle;

[0059] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the plug cap structure in this invention;

[0060] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the fit between the thermal insulation plug cover A and the thermal insulation plug cover B in this invention;

[0061] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the liquid nitrogen freezing rack in this invention.

[0062] In the diagram: 10-Insulation section; 20-Transition section; 30-Insulation loading and unloading section; 40-Lifting section; 50-Control section; 101-Insulation tank body; 102-Insulation tank body sampling port; 103-Insulation plug cover B; 104-Insulation plug cover A; 105-Insulation tank body base; 106-Turntable; 107-Liquid nitrogen freezing rack; 108-First liquid level sensor; 109-Liquid inlet pipe; 110-First temperature sensor; 111-Second liquid level sensor; 112-Replenishment valve; 113-Liquid inlet valve; 114-Exhaust valve; 115-Rotating shaft; 116-Step rack; 2 01-Reducer; 202-Chain; 203-Driven wheel; 204-Motor; 205-Drive wheel; 301-Cylinder; 302-Retrieval door; 303-Top opening of cylinder; 304-Plug cover; 305-Plug cover strip; 306-Moving door; 307-Strip observation hole; 308-Limit guide strip; 309-Nozzle; 310-Annular channel; 311-Vertical channel; 312-Vertical slide; 313-Vertical slider; 314-Locking bolt; 315-Connecting piece; 401-Lifting support frame; 402-Chain lifting rope; 501-Endoscope. Detailed Implementation

[0063] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0064] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0065] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0066] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer" to indicate orientation or positional relationships is based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationships commonly used when the product is in use. These terms are used solely for the convenience of describing this application and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in the description of this application is only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0067] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "horizontal" and "vertical" in the description of this application does not imply that the component is required to be absolutely horizontal or suspended, but rather that it may be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal relative to "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but rather that it may be slightly tilted.

[0068] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "set up," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. Example

[0069] like Figure 1 As shown, a multifunctional low-temperature automated preservation system for biological samples includes an insulation section 10, a transition section 20, an insulation loading and unloading section 30, a lifting section 40, and a control section 50.

[0070] The insulation section 10 has a low-temperature storage cavity, in which multiple sets of cryopreservation units for preserving biological samples are placed, and a rotating component that drives the multiple sets of cryopreservation units to perform intermittent rotational motion.

[0071] The transition section 20 has a transition area around the top opening of the heat preservation section 10, and a drive component for driving the rotating component is provided in the transition area.

[0072] The heat-insulating take-out section 30 has a take-out cavity, and the bottom opening of the take-out cavity is connected to the top of the low-temperature storage cavity.

[0073] The bottom of the lifting part 40 is located at the top of the heat preservation tank 101 in the transition area. The top of the lifting part 40 is provided with a lifting assembly that can move horizontally and linearly. The lifting part of the lifting assembly can pass through the heat preservation take-up and put-down part 30 and the transition part 20 in sequence and extend into the heat preservation part 10.

[0074] The control unit 50 is used to control the rotation of the rotating component through the drive component, to control the horizontal linear movement of the lifting component, and to control the vertical lifting of the lifting component.

[0075] Through the coordinated design of the insulation section 10, transition section 20, insulation pick-and-place section 30, lifting section 40, and control section 50, on the one hand, the low-temperature automatic preservation of biological samples is achieved; on the other hand, the liquid nitrogen freezing rack 107 is not manually rotated to place the tray; the internal spray cooling of the insulation box keeps the cryopreservation box in a low temperature range of -80℃ to -170℃ during storage and retrieval, so that the sample is always in a protected state; and the liquid nitrogen freezing rack is lifted.

[0076] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the heat preservation part 10 includes a heat preservation tank 101, the heat preservation tank 101 has a low temperature storage cavity, the top of the low temperature storage cavity is provided with a heat preservation tank sampling port 102, and a heat preservation plug cover B103 and a heat preservation plug cover A104 are placed at the heat preservation tank sampling port 102.

[0077] The rotating assembly includes a turntable 106 and a rotating shaft 115. The turntable 106 is disposed on the lower section of the rotating shaft 115. A frozen storage unit is placed on the turntable 106. The bottom of the rotating shaft 115 is rotatably disposed at the center position of the base 105 of the insulated tank 101. The top of the rotating shaft 115 is rotatably disposed at the top of the insulated tank 101.

[0078] Through the coordinated design of the drive component and the rotating component, the rotating freezing placement area allows the liquid nitrogen freezing rack 107 containing the pre-collected biological sample to rotate directly below the sampling port 102 of the insulated tank, facilitating retrieval and placement.

[0079] like Figure 8 and Figure 11 As shown, in this embodiment, the contact surfaces between the heat-insulating plug cover B103 and the heat-insulating plug cover A104 are stepped surfaces.

[0080] The stepped design of the contact surfaces between the heat-insulating plug cover B103 and the heat-insulating plug cover A104 facilitates easy handling.

[0081] like Figure 2 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 12 As shown, in this embodiment, the cryogenic storage group includes a liquid nitrogen freezing rack 107. The area of ​​the insulated tank 101 above the turntable 106 forms multiple independent cryogenic placement areas. Each cryogenic placement area holds multiple liquid nitrogen freezing racks 107, and multiple cryogenic boxes are vertically arranged on the liquid nitrogen freezing rack 107.

[0082] Different freezing zones are designed to accommodate different biological samples.

[0083] like Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the drive assembly includes a reducer 201, a chain 202, a driven wheel 203, a motor 204, and a drive wheel 205.

[0084] The reducer 201 and the motor 204 are both located at the top of the insulation tank 101 in the transition area. The input end of the reducer 201 is connected to the output end of the motor 204. The output end of the reducer 201 is provided with a drive wheel 205. The part of the top of the rotating shaft 115 extending out of the insulation tank 101 is provided with a driven wheel 203. The driven wheel 203 and the drive wheel 205 are connected to each other by a chain 202.

[0085] The design of the drive components being located within the transition area allows for a larger space in the insulated tank 101.

[0086] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown in Figure 10, in this embodiment, the heat-insulating loading and unloading section 30 includes a cylindrical body 301 with a loading and unloading cavity. A top opening 303 is provided at the top of the cylindrical body 301, and a plug cover 304 is placed on the top opening 303. A plug cover strip slit 305 is formed in the middle of the plug cover 304. A spray assembly is provided on the inner wall of the upper section of the loading and unloading cavity, and a loading and unloading window assembly is provided in the lower middle section of the loading and unloading cavity.

[0087] The spray assembly includes a nozzle 309, an annular channel 310, and a vertical channel 311. The lower side of the annular channel 310 has a plurality of output holes, and each output hole is provided with a nozzle 309. The upper side of the annular channel 310 has an input hole, which is connected to the output end of the vertical channel 311.

[0088] The pick-and-place window assembly includes a pick-and-place door 302, a movable door 306, a strip-shaped observation hole 307, a limiting guide strip 308, a vertical slide groove 312, a vertical slider 313, and a locking bolt 314. The lower middle section of the pick-and-place cavity is provided with a pick-and-place window. A connecting piece 315 is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the cylinder 301 above the pick-and-place window. Limiting guide strips 308 are provided on the left and right sides of the pick-and-place window.

[0089] The pick-up and put-down window is provided with a flip-open pick-up and put-down door 302. The movable door 306 is located between the cylinder 301 and the pick-up and put-down door 302. The left and right edges of the movable door 306 are respectively slidably attached to the inner side of the limiting guide strip 308. A vertical groove 312 is vertically opened at the middle position of the movable door 306. The connecting piece 315 is slidably fitted in the vertical groove 312. The groove part of the vertical groove 312 above the connecting piece 315 is slidably fitted with a vertical slider 313 by a locking bolt 314. The vertical movement of the vertical slider 313 can be locked by the locking bolt 314. A strip-shaped observation hole 307 is opened at the position of the movable door 306 below the vertical groove 312.

[0090] The design of the cylinder 301, the pick-up and put-out door 302, the top opening of the cylinder 303, the plug cover 304, the strip slit of the plug cover 305, the movable door 306, the strip observation hole 307, the limiting guide strip 308, the nozzle 309, the annular channel 310, the vertical channel 311, the vertical slide 312, the vertical slider 313 and the locking bolt 314 ensures that the biological sample remains in a warm state during the pick-up and put-out process.

[0091] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the lifting unit 40 includes a lifting support frame 401. The lifting support frame 401 is located at the top of the insulated tank 101 within the transition area. A lifting assembly is provided at the top of the lifting support frame 401. The lifting assembly includes an aluminum plate, a slide, a guide rail, a strip aluminum profile, a lifting frame, a side slider, a rotating wheel, a lifting motor, a chain rope 402, a hook, a cable tray support frame, a tank chain cable tray, a ring chain, and a drive motor.

[0092] The aluminum plate is fixedly mounted on the top of the lifting support frame 401. A groove is provided on the upper surface of the aluminum plate, and a guide rail slides within the groove. A strip-shaped aluminum profile is provided on the upper surface of the guide rail. A lifting frame is provided at one end of the strip-shaped aluminum profile. A wheel is rotatably mounted within the lifting frame via a first rotating shaft. One end of the first rotating shaft is connected to the lifting motor. One end of the chain hoisting rope 402 is mounted on the wheel, and a hook is provided at the other end of the chain hoisting rope 402.

[0093] A groove support frame is provided on the upper surface of the aluminum plate on one side of the groove. The groove support frame has the tank chain groove on its upper surface. An annular chain is provided in the tank chain groove. A sprocket is rotatably provided on the upper surface of the groove support frame on the side away from the tank chain groove via a second rotating shaft. The portion of the annular chain extending out of the tank chain groove is connected to the sprocket. The drive motor is connected to one end of the second rotating shaft.

[0094] The lifting unit 40 is designed to assist operators in retrieving the liquid nitrogen freezing rack 107.

[0095] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in this embodiment, the storage system further includes a first liquid level sensor 108, a liquid inlet pipe 109, a first temperature sensor 110, a second liquid level sensor 111, a replenishment valve 112, a liquid inlet valve 113, an exhaust valve 114, and a second temperature sensor.

[0096] The first liquid level sensor 108, the liquid inlet pipe 109, the first temperature sensor 110, and the second liquid level sensor 111 are all located inside the heat preservation tank 101. The first liquid level sensor 108 and the liquid inlet pipe 109 are located near the lower surface of the turntable 106 (the distance between the liquid inlet pipe 109 and the lower surface of the turntable 106 is 10mm to 50mm). The first temperature sensor 110 is located on the outer peripheral wall of the turntable 106, and the second liquid level sensor 111 is located at the inner top of the heat preservation tank 101.

[0097] The replenishing valve 112, the inlet valve 113, and the vent valve 114 are all located on the outer peripheral wall of the insulation tank 101. The inlet valve 113 is connected to the replenishing valve 112, the replenishing valve 112 is connected to the inlet pipe 109, the vent valve 114 is connected between the replenishing valve 112 and the inlet valve 113, and the vent valve 114 is connected to the vertical channel 311.

[0098] The second temperature sensor is located inside the cylinder 301;

[0099] The control unit 50 includes a controller.

[0100] When the controller receives a signal indicating that a designated freezing area is to be located below the sampling port 102 of the insulated tank, the controller sends a start signal to the first actuator controlling the opening and closing of the motor 204 (e.g., a first relay connecting the motor 204 to the external power supply), causing the motor 204 to be connected to the external power supply and thus rotating the turntable 106; when this freezing area is located below the sampling port 102 of the insulated tank, the controller sends a stop signal to the first actuator controlling the opening and closing of the motor 204, causing the motor 204 to be disconnected from the external power supply.

[0101] When the controller receives a signal from the horizontally moving lifting assembly, the controller sends a start signal to the second actuator (e.g., a second relay connecting the drive motor and the external power supply) that controls the start and stop of the lifting assembly's drive motor, so that the drive motor and the external power supply are in a conducting state, causing the lifting assembly to move horizontally; when the lifting assembly moves to the designated position, the controller sends a stop signal to the second actuator that controls the start and stop of the lifting assembly's drive motor, so that the drive motor and the external power supply are in a disconnected state;

[0102] When the controller receives a signal to raise or lower the hook of the lifting assembly, the controller sends a start signal to the third actuator (e.g., a third relay connecting the lifting motor to the external power supply) that controls the start and stop of the lifting assembly's lifting motor, so that the lifting motor is connected to the external power supply, causing the hook of the lifting motor to rise or fall; when the hook of the lifting motor rises or falls to a designated position, the controller sends a stop signal to the third actuator that controls the start and stop of the lifting motor, so that the hook of the lifting motor is disconnected from the external power supply.

[0103] The controller receives the first liquid level signal detected by the first liquid level sensor 108 and converts the first liquid level signal into a first digital signal. When the first digital signal is less than the preset liquid replenishment start value, the controller sends a first control signal to the liquid replenishment valve 112 and the liquid inlet valve 113. The liquid replenishment valve 112 and the liquid inlet valve 113 open, so that external liquid is replenished to the bottom of the heat preservation tank 101 through the liquid inlet pipe 109.

[0104] The controller receives a first temperature signal or a second temperature signal corresponding to the first temperature sensor 110 or the second temperature sensor, and converts the first temperature signal or the second temperature signal into a second digital signal or a third digital signal respectively. When one of the second digital signal or the third digital signal is greater than the exhaust setting value preset in the corresponding control unit, the controller sends a second control signal to the liquid inlet valve 113 and the exhaust valve 114, and the liquid inlet valve 113 closes and the exhaust valve 114 opens; otherwise, the controller sends a third control signal to the liquid inlet valve 113 and the exhaust valve 114, and the liquid replenishment valve 112 and the liquid inlet valve 113 open and the exhaust valve 114 closes.

[0105] The controller receives the second liquid level signal detected by the first liquid level sensor 108 and converts the second liquid level signal into a second digital signal. When the second digital signal is greater than the preset liquid replenishment stop value, the controller sends a fourth control signal to the liquid replenishment valve 112, the liquid inlet valve 113 and the exhaust valve 114, and the liquid replenishment valve 112, the liquid inlet valve 113 and the exhaust valve 114 are closed.

[0106] Through the design of the control unit 50, on the one hand, the automatic rotation of the liquid nitrogen freezing rack 107 in the insulation unit 10 is ensured, as well as the horizontal sliding of the lifting unit 40 and the automatic lifting of the lifting components in the lifting unit 40 are ensured; on the other hand, the automatic implementation of liquid inlet, liquid replenishment and venting is ensured.

[0107] In this embodiment, the storage system further includes a laser locator, which is disposed on one side of the lifting frame.

[0108] The laser positioner, designed to work in conjunction with the lifting unit 40, positions the top of the liquid nitrogen freezing rack 107 in a foggy environment, facilitating attachment to the hook.

[0109] like Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, a stepped frame 116 is also provided on one side of the bottom of the insulated tank 101, and an endoscope 501 is also placed on the top of the insulated tank 101 in the transition area.

[0110] The design of the stepped shelf 116 provides sufficient height for operators to operate at the movable door 306. The design of the endoscope 501, based on the laser locator, further facilitates the operator's identification of the required liquid nitrogen freezing rack 107.

[0111] In addition, the control unit 50 is also equipped with a touch screen, which is connected to the controller.

[0112] Working principle:

[0113] Automatic fluid resuscitation mode is available.

[0114] Pre-activation procedures for automatic fluid replenishment: Pre-set the fluid replenishment start value and fluid replenishment stop value;

[0115] After setting up, click on [Automatic Mode] to activate the automatic fluid replenishment mode via the controller.

[0116] When the liquid level falls below the initial replenishment value, the automatic replenishment mode is activated.

[0117] STEP 1: When the liquid level is lower than the initial replenishment value, open the [inlet valve];

[0118] STEP 2: When the exhaust temperature is higher than the exhaust set value, open the [exhaust valve] to begin the exhaust process;

[0119] The time and temperature of the exhaust process can be set as needed in the parameter settings;

[0120] The exhaust process ends when the time is reached or the exhaust temperature is less than or equal to the set exhaust temperature.

[0121] STEP 3: After the venting process is complete, close the venting valve and open the replenishment valve to begin the replenishment process;

[0122] Infusion should stop when the infusion stop value is reached. The start and stop values ​​for infusion are set in the parameter settings.

[0123] Achieved effect: In automatic mode, liquid nitrogen can be automatically replenished as it is consumed.

[0124] During defogging, liquid nitrogen is injected into the insulated tank 101 or sprayed through the nozzle 309.

[0125] During gas-phase storage, if a malfunction or accident causes the liquid nitrogen storage volume to exceed the position of the lowest frozen sample (i.e., exceeding the height of the turntable by 106),

[0126] The protection program is activated to stop the automatic filling of liquid nitrogen and to start an alarm (the control unit also includes an alarm device, which is connected to the controller).

[0127] Conditions for determining whether liquid nitrogen levels are too high:

[0128] Condition 1: Liquid level height > set maximum liquid level height value;

[0129] Condition 2: The lower temperature exceeds the lower limit of the lower temperature range, -195℃;

[0130] If any of the above conditions are triggered, all valves will be forcibly closed, and the inlet valve and replenishment valve can no longer be opened, whether manually or automatically.

[0131] The refrigeration start temperature and refrigeration stop temperature of the insulation cavity are preset.

[0132] Then click the "Insulation Chamber Cooling" button on the main control panel;

[0133] After the insulation cavity cooling is activated, the following control processes can also be performed:

[0134] Step 1: First, open the [inlet valve] and [vent valve] to release air.

[0135] Step 2: After the exhaust temperature is reached, close the exhaust valve; open the insulation chamber cooling solenoid valve (hereinafter referred to as the cooling valve), and then determine whether the main tank liquid level needs to be replenished; if the main liquid level is above the set replenishment start value, do not open the replenishment valve.

[0136] If the level is not above the initial replenishment value, the tank body will be automatically replenished (i.e., the replenishment valve of the main tank will open, and the replenishment valve will close after the replenishment stop value is reached).

[0137] Step 3: As liquid nitrogen is sprayed, the temperature of the insulation chamber decreases. When the temperature of the insulation chamber reaches the set value (the insulation chamber cooling shut-off temperature), the cooling valve is closed after a delayed spraying delay time (seconds).

[0138] Step 4: After the refrigeration valve is closed, as the temperature of the insulation cavity rises above the refrigeration start temperature, the refrigeration valve is reopened for spraying to maintain the temperature inside the insulation cavity.

[0139] Step 5: Until the user opens the door of the insulation chamber (door open / close signal), or closes the insulation chamber on the screen.

[0140] Press the cooling button to stop the above cooling and insulation program, reset all solenoid valves, and open the door to reset the cooling button in the insulation cavity.

[0141] Sample access operation flow

[0142] 1. Manually open the insulated box door (i.e., the insulated box body is cylindrical 301, and the insulated box door is the access door 302 at the access window and the movable door 306). The opening size of the box is 275mm wide * 4mm high, and the insulated access section is 30mm high. (The height of the cryogenic rack is approximately 660mm).

[0143] 2. Manually remove the large-necked stopper cap, which consists of two parts, A and B. Remove caps A and B in sequence.

[0144] 3. Tap the access button on the touchscreen to select a storage area (or, in other words, a frozen storage area, such as frozen storage area A, frozen storage area B, frozen storage area C, or frozen storage area D), so that a frozen storage area is rotated to be directly below the sampling port 102 of the insulated container.

[0145] 4. Press and hold the lifting / lowering button (physical button) to lower the lifting hook to the appropriate position.

[0146] Slide the lifting hook back and forth until it reaches the position of the cryopreservation rack and attach it. (Height of the top of the cryopreservation rack from the sampling port)

[0147] (Distance approximately 580mm).

[0148] 5. Close the incubator door.

[0149] Set the desired temperature for insulation on the touchscreen, and then click the cooling button to start cooling.

[0150] Once the cooling temperature is reached, press the "Turn off cooling" button on the touchscreen and open the insulated cabinet door.

[0151] (The controller is also connected to a refrigeration solenoid valve, which is a mature existing technology that forces the refrigeration solenoid valve to close when the door is opened.)

[0152] 7. Press and hold the lifting button (physical button) to raise the lifting hook to the sampling doorway.

[0153] Manually retrieve and place the cryopreservation boxes. (The specific shelf number of the cryopreservation box needs to be manually located.)

[0154] 8. After sampling, return the cryopreservation rack to the storage area, close the large-necked cap, and proceed in sequence.

[0155] Cover with lids B and A.

[0156] 9. Close the insulated box door; the entire sampling process is now complete.

[0157] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A multifunctional low-temperature automated preservation system for biological samples, characterized in that: It includes an insulation section (10), a transition section (20), an insulation loading and unloading section (30), a lifting section (40), and a control section (50). The insulation part (10) has a low-temperature storage cavity, in which multiple sets of cryopreservation groups for storing biological samples are placed and a rotating component that drives the multiple sets of cryopreservation groups to perform intermittent rotational motion. The transition section (20) has a transition area around the top opening of the heat insulation section (10), and a drive component for driving the rotating component is provided in the transition area; The heat-insulating take-out section (30) has a take-out cavity, and the bottom opening of the take-out cavity is connected to the top of the low-temperature storage cavity; The insulation section (10) includes an insulation tank (101). The bottom of the lifting section (40) is located at the top of the insulation tank (101) in the transition area. The top of the lifting section (40) is provided with a lifting assembly that can move horizontally and linearly. The lifting part of the lifting assembly can pass through the insulation pick-and-place section (30) and the transition section (20) in sequence and extend into the insulation section (10). The control unit (50) is used to control the rotation of the rotating component through the drive component, to control the horizontal linear movement of the lifting component, and to control the vertical lifting of the lifting part; The drive assembly includes a reducer (201), a chain (202), a driven wheel (203), a motor (204), and a drive wheel (205). The reducer (201) and the motor (204) are both located at the top of the insulation tank (101) in the transition area. The input end of the reducer (201) is connected to the output end of the motor (204). The output end of the reducer (201) is provided with a drive wheel (205). The rotating assembly includes a turntable (106) and a rotating shaft (115). The top of the rotating shaft (115) extending out of the insulation tank (101) is provided with a driven wheel (203). The driven wheel (203) and the drive wheel (205) are connected to each other by a chain (202). The heat-insulating loading and unloading section (30) includes a cylindrical body (301), which has a loading and unloading cavity. The top of the cylindrical body (301) has a top opening (303), and a plug cover (304) is placed on the top opening (303). A plug cover strip slit (305) is formed in the middle of the plug cover (304). A spray assembly is provided on the inner wall surface of the upper section of the loading and unloading cavity, and a loading and unloading window assembly is provided in the middle and lower section of the loading and unloading cavity. The spray assembly includes a nozzle (309), an annular channel (310), and a vertical channel (311). The lower side of the annular channel (310) is provided with a plurality of output holes, and each output hole is provided with a nozzle (309). The upper side of the annular channel (310) is provided with an input hole, which is connected to the output end of the vertical channel (311). The pick-and-place window assembly includes a pick-and-place door (302), a movable door (306), a strip-shaped observation hole (307), a limiting guide strip (308), a vertical slide groove (312), a vertical slider (313), and a locking bolt (314). The lower middle section of the pick-and-place cavity is provided with a pick-and-place window. A connecting piece (315) is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the cylinder (301) above the pick-and-place window. Limiting guide strips (308) are provided on the left and right sides of the pick-and-place window. The pick-up and put-down window is provided with a flip-open pick-up and put-down door (302). The movable door (306) is located between the cylinder (301) and the pick-up and put-down door (302). The left and right edges of the movable door (306) are respectively slidably attached to the inner side of the limiting guide strip (308). A vertical groove (312) is vertically opened at the middle position of the movable door (306). The connecting piece (315) is slidably sleeved in the vertical groove (312). The groove part of the vertical groove (312) above the connecting piece (315) is slidably sleeved with a vertical slider (313) by a locking bolt (314). The vertical movement of the vertical slider (313) can be locked by the locking bolt (314). A strip-shaped observation hole (307) is opened at the position below the vertical groove (312) of the movable door (306).

2. The multifunctional low-temperature automated preservation system for biological samples according to claim 1, characterized in that: The insulated tank (101) has a low-temperature storage cavity. The top of the low-temperature storage cavity is provided with an insulated tank sampling port (102). An insulated plug cover B (103) and an insulated plug cover A (104) are placed at the insulated tank sampling port (102). The turntable (106) is located in the lower section of the rotating shaft (115), and a frozen storage unit is placed on the turntable (106). The bottom of the rotating shaft (115) is rotatably located at the center of the base (105) of the insulated tank (101) at the bottom of the insulated tank, and the top of the rotating shaft (115) is rotatably located at the top of the insulated tank (101).

3. The multifunctional low-temperature automated preservation system for biological samples according to claim 2, characterized in that: The contact surfaces between the heat-insulating plug cover B (103) and the heat-insulating plug cover A (104) are stepped surfaces.

4. The multifunctional low-temperature automated preservation system for biological samples according to claim 2, characterized in that: The cryogenic storage group includes a liquid nitrogen freezing rack (107). The area above the turntable (106) of the insulated tank (101) forms multiple independent cryogenic placement areas. Each cryogenic placement area holds multiple liquid nitrogen freezing racks (107), and multiple cryogenic boxes are vertically arranged on the liquid nitrogen freezing rack (107).

5. The multifunctional low-temperature automated preservation system for biological samples according to claim 2, characterized in that: The lifting unit (40) includes a lifting support frame (401), which is located at the top of the insulated tank (101) within the transition area. A lifting assembly is provided at the top of the lifting support frame (401). The lifting assembly includes an aluminum plate, a slide rail, a guide rail, a strip aluminum profile, a lifting frame, a side slider, a rotating wheel, a lifting motor, a chain rope (402), a hook, a cable tray support frame, a tank chain cable tray, a ring chain, and a drive motor. The aluminum plate is fixedly mounted on the top of the lifting support frame (401). A groove is provided on the upper surface of the aluminum plate, and a guide rail is slidably mounted within the groove. A strip-shaped aluminum profile is provided on the upper surface of the guide rail. A lifting frame is provided at one end of the strip-shaped aluminum profile. A wheel is rotatably mounted within the lifting frame via a first rotating shaft. One end of the first rotating shaft is connected to the lifting motor. One end of the chain-type lifting rope (402) is mounted on the wheel, and a hook is provided at the other end of the chain-type lifting rope (402). A groove support frame is provided on the upper surface of the aluminum plate on one side of the groove. The groove support frame has the tank chain groove on its upper surface. An annular chain is provided in the tank chain groove. A sprocket is rotatably provided on the upper surface of the groove support frame on the side away from the tank chain groove via a second rotating shaft. The portion of the annular chain extending out of the tank chain groove is connected to the sprocket. The drive motor is connected to one end of the second rotating shaft.

6. The multifunctional low-temperature automated preservation system for biological samples according to claim 5, characterized in that: The storage system also includes a first liquid level sensor (108), a liquid inlet pipe (109), a first temperature sensor (110), a second liquid level sensor (111), a replenishment valve (112), a liquid inlet valve (113), an exhaust valve (114), and a second temperature sensor. The first liquid level sensor (108), the liquid inlet pipe (109), the first temperature sensor (110), and the second liquid level sensor (111) are all located inside the heat preservation tank (101). The first liquid level sensor (108) and the liquid inlet pipe (109) are located near the lower surface of the turntable (106). The first temperature sensor (110) is located on the outer peripheral wall of the turntable (106). The second liquid level sensor (111) is located at the inner top of the heat preservation tank (101). The replenishment valve (112), inlet valve (113), and exhaust valve (114) are all located on the outer peripheral wall of the heat preservation tank (101). The inlet valve (113) is connected to the replenishment valve (112), the replenishment valve (112) is connected to the inlet pipe (109), the exhaust valve (114) is connected between the replenishment valve (112) and the inlet valve (113), and the exhaust valve (114) is connected to the vertical channel (311). The second temperature sensor is located inside the cylinder (301); The control unit (50) includes a controller. When the controller receives a signal that a designated frozen storage area is located below the sampling port (102) of the insulated tank, the controller sends a start signal to the first actuator that controls the opening and closing of the motor (204), so that the motor (204) is connected to the external power supply, causing the rotating turntable (106) to rotate; when the frozen storage area is located below the sampling port (102) of the insulated tank, the controller sends a stop signal to the first actuator that controls the opening and closing of the motor (204), so that the motor (204) is disconnected from the external power supply; When the controller receives a signal from the horizontally moving lifting assembly, the controller sends a start signal to the second actuator that controls the start and stop of the drive motor of the lifting assembly, so that the drive motor is connected to the external power supply, and the lifting assembly moves horizontally; when the lifting assembly moves to the designated position, the controller sends a stop signal to the second actuator that controls the start and stop of the drive motor of the lifting assembly, so that the drive motor is disconnected from the external power supply. When the controller receives a signal to raise or lower the hook of the lifting assembly, the controller sends a start signal to the third actuator that controls the opening and closing of the lifting motor of the lifting assembly, so that the lifting motor is connected to the external power supply, causing the hook of the lifting motor to rise or fall; when the hook of the lifting motor rises or falls to the designated position, the controller sends a stop signal to the third actuator that controls the opening and closing of the lifting motor, so that the hook of the lifting motor is disconnected from the external power supply. The controller receives the first liquid level signal detected by the first liquid level sensor (108) and converts the first liquid level signal into a first digital signal. When the first digital signal is less than the preset liquid replenishment start value, the controller sends a first control signal to the liquid replenishment valve (112) and the liquid inlet valve (113). The liquid replenishment valve (112) and the liquid inlet valve (113) open, so that external liquid is replenished to the bottom of the heat preservation tank (101) through the liquid inlet pipe (109). The controller receives a first temperature signal or a second temperature signal corresponding to the first temperature sensor (110) or the second temperature sensor, and converts the first temperature signal or the second temperature signal into a second digital signal or a third digital signal respectively. When one of the second digital signal or the third digital signal is greater than the exhaust setting value preset in the corresponding control unit, the controller sends a second control signal to the liquid inlet valve (113) and the exhaust valve (114), and the liquid inlet valve (113) closes and the exhaust valve (114) opens; otherwise, the controller sends a third control signal to the liquid inlet valve (113) and the exhaust valve (114), and the liquid replenishment valve (112) and the liquid inlet valve (113) open and the exhaust valve (114) closes. The controller receives the second liquid level signal detected by the first liquid level sensor (108) and converts the second liquid level signal into a second digital signal. When the second digital signal is greater than the preset liquid replenishment stop value, the controller sends a fourth control signal to the liquid replenishment valve (112), the liquid inlet valve (113) and the exhaust valve (114), and the liquid replenishment valve (112), the liquid inlet valve (113) and the exhaust valve (114) are closed.

7. The multifunctional low-temperature automated preservation system for biological samples according to claim 6, characterized in that: The storage system also includes a laser positioner located on one side of the lifting frame.

8. The multifunctional low-temperature automated preservation system for biological samples according to claim 7, characterized in that: A stepped frame (116) is also provided on one side of the bottom of the insulated tank (101), and an endoscope (501) is also placed on the top of the insulated tank (101) in the transition area.

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