Low-temperature grinding system and device and using method thereof

Abstract

A cryogenic grinding system, method and apparatus for processing a sample. The system includes a cryogen source, a containment vessel for containing a sample and cryogen, a blade for abrading the sample, and a controller. The controller controls at least one of: an amount of refrigerant introduced into the container; a grinding duration of the at least one blade; or a grinding speed of the at least one blade, the control being based on at least one of: a mass of a sample placed in the containment vessel via a user input at the grinding system input; or the temperature in the container.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 337,661, filed on May 3, 2022, entitled “CRYOGENIC GRINDING SYSTEM, APPARATUS, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to cryogenic grinding or milling apparatus and, in particular, to cryogenic grinding systems. Background Art

[0003] Cryogenic grinding or milling is usually used to reduce a sample to a particle size suitable for analysis. Cryogenic grinding or milling usually involves cooling or otherwise removing heat from the sample to allow the sample to be ground to a smaller particle size for further analysis. However, in the past, systems and methods for cryogenic grinding or milling usually required a large number of cumbersome steps to be performed by a technician. In addition, past systems and methods usually require repeated trials to complete sufficient sample processing, which results in wasting energy and materials (e.g., cryogens), and also wastes samples that need to be processed. The present disclosure overcomes these shortcomings by providing a reliable and effective method for processing samples via cryogenic grinding. Summary of the invention

[0004] A simplified summary of one or more aspects of the present invention is presented below to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is neither intended to identify the primary or critical elements of all aspects, nor to describe the scope of any or all aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description presented later.

[0005] In some aspects, the system described herein relates to a cryogenic grinding system for processing a sample, the system comprising: a cryogen source; a holding vessel for holding the sample and the cryogen; a blade for grinding the sample; and a controller configured to control at least one of: the amount of cryogen introduced into the container; the grinding duration of at least one blade; or the grinding speed of at least one blade, the control being based on at least one of: user input via an input end of the grinding system, the mass of the sample placed in the holding vessel; or the temperature within the holding vessel.

[0006] In some aspects, the device described herein relates to a cryogenic grinding device for processing a sample, the device comprising: a cryogen supply valve; an opening configured to receive a holding vessel for holding the sample; a blade drive; and a controller configured to control at least one of: the amount of cryogen introduced into the vessel received in the opening; the duration of rotation of the blade drive; the speed of the blade drive, the control being based on at least one of: user input via a grinding system input, a detected mass of a sample in a holding vessel placed in the opening; or a temperature within a holding vessel placed in the opening.

[0007] In some aspects, the device described herein relates to a cryogenic grinding device for processing a sample within a containing vessel, the device comprising: an opening configured to receive the containing vessel; and a coupling system, wherein, when the containing vessel is placed into the opening, the coupling system is configured to couple at least one of: a drive connector with a blade drive connector of the containing vessel; a cryogen supply with a cryogen supply port of the containing vessel; or an exhaust duct with an exhaust port of the containing vessel.

[0008] These and other aspects of the invention will be more fully understood upon reading the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1A is a perspective view of an example cryogenic grinding system with a sample holding vessel positioned therein.

[0010] Figure 1B is a close-up partial cross-sectional view of a sample-holding vessel according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 yes Figure 1A A perspective view of an example cryogenic grinding system with the sample holding vessel removed and external to the body.

[0012] Figure 3A is a rear perspective view of one example of a sample-holding vessel 200 according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A Front perspective view of a sample holding vessel.

[0014] Figure 4A yes Figure 3A and Figure 3B Front perspective view of a sample holding vessel with the top section removed from the sample holding vessel.

[0015] Figure 4B yes Figure 3A and Figure 3BFront top perspective view of the top section of a sample holding vessel.

[0016] Figure 4C yes Figure 4B Front bottom perspective view of the top section of a sample holding vessel.

[0017] Figure 5A is a left side cross-sectional view of a cryogenic milling apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 5B is a close-up view of the blade drive coupler and drive coupler in a disengaged state.

[0019] Fig. 6A is a left side cross-sectional view of a cryogenic milling apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 6B is a close-up view of the blade drive coupler and drive coupler in an engaged state.

[0021] Figure 7 is a right side cross-sectional view of a cryogenic milling apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 8 is a left side cross-sectional view of a cryogenic milling apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0023] Fig. 9 is a rear partial cross-sectional view of a cryogenic milling apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0024] Fig.10 Diagram illustrating control aspects of a cryogenic milling apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig.11 An example representative diagram illustrating various components of an example controller that may be used with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0026] Fig.12 An example of a computer system according to aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0027] Fig.13 Examples of various system components according to aspects of the present disclosure are illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The detailed description set forth below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended as a description of various configurations and is not intended to represent the only configuration in which the concepts described herein may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring such concepts. I. Terminology

[0029] Throughout the disclosure, the term "substantially" or "approximately" may be used as a modifier of the geometric relationship between elements or a modifier of the shape of an element or component. Although the term "substantially" or "approximately" is not limited to specific changes, and may cover any changes that are understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to be acceptable changes, some examples are provided below. In one example, the term "substantially" or "approximately" may include a change of less than 10% of the size of an object or component. In another example, the term "substantially" or "approximately" may include a change of less than 5% of an object or component. If the term "substantially" or "approximately" is used to define the angular relationship between one element and another element, a non-limiting example of the term "substantially" or "approximately" may include a change of 5 degrees or less. These examples are not intended to be limiting, and may be increased or decreased based on the understanding of the acceptable limits of a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art.

[0030] For purposes of this disclosure, when the systems and devices described herein are mounted in an orientation for use, directional terms are generally expressed relative to a standard reference system. In addition, to provide context for this disclosure, a broad overview of the defects found in various systems and example embodiments of the present disclosure and the advantages provided by the present disclosure are described below. Additional details of example embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] Terms such as "a", "an", and "the" are not intended to refer to only a singular entity, but include general classes, of which specific examples may be used for illustration. The terms "a", "an", and "the" may be used interchangeably with the term "at least one". The phrases "at least one of" and "including at least one of" followed by a list refer to any one of the items in the list and any combination of two or more items in the list. Unless otherwise specified, all numerical ranges include their endpoints and non-integer values ​​between the endpoints.

[0032] The terms "first", "second", "third", and "fourth", as well as other numerical values, may be used in the present disclosure. It should be understood that these terms are used only in their relative semantics unless otherwise stated. In particular, in some aspects, certain components may exist in multiple (e.g., pairs) that are interchangeable and / or identical. For these components, in the description of one or more of the aspects of the present disclosure, the names of "first", "second", "third", and / or "fourth" may be applied to the components, merely for convenience.

[0033] As used herein, the term "controller" or "processor" may refer to a device that processes signals and performs general computational and arithmetic functions. The signals processed by the processor may include digital signals, data signals, computer instructions, processor instructions, messages, bits, bit streams, or other calculations that may be received, sent, and / or detected. For example, the processor may include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic device (PLD), a state machine, gated logic, discrete hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware configured to perform the various functions described herein.

[0034] As used herein, the term "memory" may include volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory may include, for example, ROM (read only memory), PROM (programmable read only memory), EPROM (erasable PROM), and EEPROM (electrically erasable PROM). Volatile memory may include, for example, RAM (random access memory), synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), and direct RAM bus RAM (DRRAM).

[0035] As used herein, the terms "operably connected" or "in signal communication" may include a connection through which entities can exchange information or provide and receive current in which signals, physical communications, and / or logical communications can be sent and / or received. An operable connection may include a physical interface, a data interface, and / or an electrical interface. The term "operably connected" may also include a physical connection (either directly or indirectly) between one or more mechanically operable components or devices.

[0036] For context, an overview of aspects of the present disclosure and the advantages provided by the present disclosure is provided. This overview and subsequent detailed description have been presented for the purpose of illustration and description. The present invention is not intended to be exhaustive, nor is it intended to limit the present disclosure to the described form. In accordance with the above teachings, many modifications are possible, including combinations of the aforementioned aspects. Some of these modifications have been discussed, and those skilled in the art will understand other modifications. Various aspects are selected and described in order to best illustrate the principles of the present disclosure and various aspects suitable for the intended specific use. Of course, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the examples or aspects set forth herein, but may be adopted by those of ordinary skill in the art in any number of applications and equivalent devices. On the contrary, it is intended that the scope be limited by the claims appended hereto. II. Overview

[0037] As described in further detail below, aspects of the present disclosure relate to improved cryogenic milling systems, apparatus, and methods. The cryogenic milling system includes a body and a sample holding vessel having one or more blades therein. After the sample is placed in the sample holding vessel and the vessel is placed in the body, a cryogen is supplied to the vessel to remove heat from the sample. The blades in the vessel are rotated, which causes the sample to be reduced to a size suitable for further analysis. Detailed examples of the disclosed systems, apparatus, and methods are provided below. III. Detailed Examples

[0038] Figure 1 to Figure 2 A perspective view of an example cryogenic grinding system 50 having an example body 100 configured to removably receive a sample-holding vessel 200 is illustrated. Figure 1B One example of a cryogenic grinding system is shown in which a sample holding vessel 200 is placed within the opening 101 of the body 100 . Figure 2 An example of the cryogenic grinding system 50 is shown with the sample holding vessel 200 removed from the opening 101 of the body 100 .

[0039] Figure 1B 2 is a partial view of a sample holding vessel 200 with portions of an outer wall (e.g., wall 202) removed to illustrate an example blade configuration 204 inside the vessel 200. Figure 1B Two blades are shown, but it is noted that the container 200 can instead have a single blade (e.g., as described below with respect to Figure 4B 10). In another example, the vessel may instead have more than two blades (e.g., 3 blades, 4 blades, 5 blades) in another example configuration. The holding vessel 200 may be received into the body 100, for example, via a series of tracks 112a and 112b configured to slidably receive the guide rails 210a and 210b of the sample holding vessel 200. Once the sample holding vessel 200 is Figure 1A , the engagement rod 110 can be rotated (e.g., Figure 1A ), thereby causing the receiving vessel 200 to engage with the opening 101 of the body 100 or otherwise be retained in the opening 101 of the body 100. In one example, rotating the engagement rod 110 in the direction F may cause one or more pressing members (described in further detail below) to press upward in the direction F (see Figure 1A ), the pressing member can press upward, thereby pressing the guide rails 210a and 210b against the top of each corresponding track 112a and 112b of the main body 100 and applying a clamping force to the sample holding vessel 200.

[0040] As described in further detail below, once the user slides the sample holding vessel 200 into the opening 101 of the body 100, and the engagement rod 110 is rotated in the direction F, various connectors (e.g., cryogen source connectors, exhaust connectors, and / or temperature sensors or sensor electrical contacts) and / or blade drive source connectors can be engaged so that the sample contained in the sample holding vessel 200 can be further processed by the cryogenic grinding system 50. The body 100 can also include a display interface 102, which can be, for example, a display and touch screen for controlling the cryogenic grinding system 50. In one example, the display interface 102 can be, for example, a display and touch screen with a graphical user interface (GUI) that includes buttons or other GUI interface elements that allow the user to control the display of the cryogenic grinding system 50. The body 100 can also include a stop button 108 that immediately stops the cryogenic grinding system when pressed. In one example, the stop button 108 can be, for example, an emergency stop button that stops the system in the event of a malfunction or in the event that the user incorrectly operates the system. The body 100 also includes a series of legs 106a-106c. In one example, any one or more of the legs 106a-106c may be a mass-cell or any other type of mass sensor for determining the weight of the sample in the sample holding vessel 200 and / or the weight of the cryogen supplied to or contained in the sample holding vessel 200. Figure 1A In the example shown in , the front leg 106a is shown as a mass measurement unit. The mass measurement unit can provide an output or resistance indicating the weight or mass of any one or combination of samples in the sample holding vessel 200 and / or the weight of the cryogen supplied to or contained in the sample holding vessel 200.

[0041] As an alternative to the aforementioned display interface and / or the described automated and / or semi-automated control, the cryogenic grinding system 50 may instead be manually or analog controlled. For example, any one or combination of the amount of cryogen introduced into the container, the grinding duration of at least one blade, or the grinding speed of at least one blade may be controlled via any one or combination of a switch, a lever, or a dial. In addition, the system may provide feedback via any one or combination of an indicator light, an LCD screen(s), and / or an audible indicator.

[0042] Go to Figure 1A and Figure 1B The sample holding vessel 200 may, for example, include a handle 208 and may have an outer wall 202. The sample holding vessel 200 may also include an inner wall (e.g., Figure 4AThe sample holding vessel 200 may include an inner wall 252 therein and may, for example, have an insulating material, a gas, a fluid, or may be evacuated so that a vacuum exists between the outer wall 202 and the inner wall 252 to insulate the sample and / or cryogen provided to the sample holding vessel 200 from the surrounding environment.

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown in , the sample-holding vessel 200 may include a blade drive arrangement 216 that may be configured to be received by the blade drive opening 116 of the body 100 when the sample-holding vessel 200 is slid into the opening 101 by a user. Additional details of the blade drive arrangement 216 are described in more detail below.

[0044] The sample holding vessel 200 may also include a sample supply opening having a handle 214 . Figure 3A and Figure 3B A view of a sample holding vessel 200 is shown, which may be similar to that of FIGS. 1 to 21 . Figure 2 The handle 214 may be connected to a supply door 217 that is pivotally connected to a cover 240 of the sample holding vessel 200. As noted above, the supply door 217 may be pivotally connected to the supply door 217, allowing a user to move the sample holding vessel 200 generally in the direction R ( Figure 3B ) so that the sample can be provided to the sample holding vessel 200. Once the sample is provided to the sample holding vessel 200, the supply door 217 can be closed. The installation of the sample holding vessel 200 into the opening 101 of the body 100 and the rotation of the engagement rod 110 can cause a downward or sealing force to be applied to the supply door 217 and / or the handle 214. As mentioned above and described in further detail below, one or more clamping members can apply an upward force (e.g., Figure 1A 112a and 112b. The aforementioned upward force may cause the supply door 217 and / or the handle 214 to be pressed against the corresponding surface in the blade drive opening 116, thereby causing the supply door 217 to be pressed downward and seal, minimize and / or prevent the escape of gas, liquid or sample placed in the sample holding vessel 200 during processing. Either or both of the supply door 217 and the supply opening of the sample holding vessel 200 may have (one or more) gaskets or seals to further improve the sealing interface between the supply door 217 and the corresponding opening. (One or more) gaskets or seals may include any suitable sealing interface known in the art.

[0045] Figure 3A and Figure 3B An example of the sample holding vessel 200 removed from the body 1000 is shown. Figure 4A and Figure 4BAn example of a sample holding vessel 200 is shown having a top section 200a separated from a bottom section 200b. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown in , the sample holding vessel 200 may also include a blade drive support portion 222 and a blade drive coupler 220 as part of the blade drive arrangement 216. Figure 5A and Fig. 6A As best shown in the cross-sectional view of , the blade drive support portion 222 may, for example, include one or more bearings or bushings for rotatably supporting the blade shaft 206. The blade drive coupling 220 may, for example, be connected to the blade shaft 206 or otherwise configured to provide a rotational force to the blade shaft 206. The blade drive coupling 220 may, for example, include Figure 5B , which may be configured to engage with the drive coupling 120 of the body 100 and rotate simultaneously with the drive coupling 120. Figure 5B and Figure 6B As best shown in FIG. 1 , the blade drive coupling 220 and the drive coupling 120 may be configured to be engaged when engaged by a user in a direction F ( Figure 1A ) is engageably coupled when the engagement rod 110 is pulled, which causes the blade drive coupling 220 to move in the direction P ( Figure 5B )move. Figure 5B An example of the blade drive coupling 220 and the drive coupling 120 are shown in a disengaged position (eg, to allow the sample-holding vessel 200 to be installed into or removed from the body 100 ). Figure 6B An example of a blade drive coupling 220 and a drive coupling 120 are shown in an engaged position (eg, to transmit the rotational force provided by the motor to the blade drive coupling 220). An example of a motor is shown in FIG. Figure 8 Shown in the figure as reference numeral 172.

[0046] Figure 3A and Figure 3B An example of the exhaust port 234 and the refrigerant supply port 232 is shown. The refrigerant supply port 232 may be configured to be placed in contact with a refrigerant supply portion (eg, Figure 5A , Fig. 6A and Figure 7 The refrigerant supply section 132 in the embodiment is fluidly connected. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown in the example of , the cryogen supply port 232 may, for example, have a recess surrounding the opening. The recess may, for example, improve the sealing surface area between the cryogen supply port 232 and the cryogen supply portion of the body 100. Figure 5A , Fig. 6A and Figure 7In the cryogen supply port 232 and cryogen supply part 132 in the body 100, any one or both may have (one or more) gaskets or seals to further improve the sealing interface between cryogen supply port 232 and cryogen supply part 132. (One or more) gaskets or seals may include any suitable sealing interface known in the art. Cryogen supply port 232 and cryogen supply part 132 may be configured to be spaced apart from each other when sample holding vessel 200 first slides into body 100. Once sample holding vessel 200 slides completely into body 100, and engagement rod 110 is pulled in direction F, cryogen supply port 232 and cryogen supply part 132 may be moved to engage (e.g., in direction P), thereby causing sealing or partial sealing and allowing fluid communication between cryogen supply port 232 and cryogen supply part 132.

[0047] The exhaust port 234 of the sample holding vessel 200 may be configured to be placed in contact with an exhaust conduit (eg, Figure 8 The exhaust pipe 134 in the embodiment is fluidly connected. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown in the example of, the exhaust port 234 may, for example, have a recess surrounding the opening. The recess may, for example, improve the sealing surface area between the exhaust port 234 and the exhaust duct interface of the main body 100. Either or both of the exhaust port 234 and the exhaust duct interface may have (one or more) gaskets or seals to further improve the sealing interface between the exhaust port 234 and the exhaust duct 134. (One or more) gaskets or seals may include any suitable sealing interface known in the art. The exhaust port 234 and the exhaust duct 134 may be configured to be spaced apart from each other when the sample holding vessel 200 first slides into the main body 100. Once the sample holding vessel 200 is completely slid into the main body 100, and the engagement rod 110 is pulled in the direction F, the exhaust port 234 and the exhaust duct 134 may be moved to engage (e.g., in the direction P), thereby causing a seal or partial seal and allowing the fluid communication between the exhaust port 234 and the exhaust duct 134.

[0048] Figure 4A and Figure 4BAn example of a sample holding vessel 200 is shown having a top section 200a separated from a bottom section 200b. The top section 200a may, for example, include a supply door 217 and an optional handle 214 hingedly connected thereto via a hinge 219. The top section 200a may also include a blade drive support portion 222 and a blade drive connector 220 having a blade shaft 206 rotatably mounted to the top section 200a via one or more bearings and / or bushings. The blade drive support portion 222 may also include a seal, gasket, or O-ring configured to prevent fluid from escaping from the sample holding vessel 200 via an interface between the top section 200a and the rotatable blade shaft 206. In one example, the seal, gasket, or O-ring may include a Teflon TM (polytetrafluoroethylene). Figure 4B As shown in FIG. 1 , the blade shaft 206 may, for example, have one or more blades 204a connected thereto. Figure 4B Only a single blade is shown in FIG, but it is noted that there may be any number of blades as permitted by the space limitations of the sample holding vessel 200. For example, Figure 1B In one example, blade shaft 206 may be replaced with two blades mounted thereto. One or more blades may be formed by a rigid material such as steel or stainless steel, and may be hardened or otherwise processed to increase the strength or rigidity of blade, especially at the contact leading edge 204c of blade 204b. In one example, the leading edge 204c of (one or more) blades may be sharp and / or may include a series of ridges or other patterned or randomized surface irregularities that may further improve the efficiency of the blade in reducing the sample. In some examples, blade may be replaceably connected to blade shaft 206 to allow a user to replace or otherwise repair blade. In one example, blade 204b may be threadedly connected to shaft 206, or may be held to shaft via a bolt threadedly connected to the bottom of blade shaft 206.

[0049] The top section 200a is configured to be mounted to the bottom section 200b. The bottom section 200b may include an outer wall 202 and an inner wall 252, a handle 208, and a sealing channel or interface 233. In one aspect, the sealing channel or interface may be configured to receive a gasket or a seal such as an O-ring. In one example, the top section 200a and the bottom section 200b may be provided with a Teflon seal, for example, at either or both of the top section 200a and / or the bottom section 200b. TM (polytetrafluoroethylene) seals, gaskets or O-rings. For example, the top section 200a may have a top section seal 236. The top section seal 236 may include Teflon TM(polytetrafluoroethylene) seals, gaskets or O-rings. Although the described examples include one or more Teflon TM Gasket, but note that the gasket(s) or seal(s) may comprise any suitable sealing interface known in the art.

[0050] like Figure 4C As shown in FIG. 1 , the top section 200a may, for example, have a series of studs or protrusions 244 ( Figure 4C ), which is configured to be received by the corresponding receiving opening 235 of the bottom section 200b to align the top section 200a with the bottom section 200b. The installation of the sample holding vessel 200 into the opening 101 of the body 100 and the rotation of the engagement rod 110 can cause a downward or sealing force to be applied to the top section 200a and / or the bottom section 200b. As mentioned above and described in further detail below, one or more clamping members can apply an upward force (e.g., Figure 1A The aforementioned upward force may cause the top section 200a to be pressed against the bottom section 200b, thereby causing the top section 200a to be pressed downward and seal, minimize and / or prevent the escape of gas, liquid or sample placed in the sample holding vessel 200 during processing. Once the engagement rod 110 is rotated to the release position, the top section 200a can be separated from the bottom section 200b to, for example, remove the sample and / or clean or reprocess and / or refurbish the sample holding vessel 200.

[0051] Note also that, despite Figure 4C The middle stud or protrusion 244 is shown as being located on the top section 200a, but the stud or protrusion 244 may instead be at the bottom section 200b, and as an alternative, the receiving opening may be at the top section 200a. In addition, other methods of aligning the top section 200a with the bottom section 200b may be implemented. For example, the top section 200a may, for example, have a cylindrical protrusion that is configured to fit into an opening in the bottom section 200b.

[0052] In another example, the bottom section 200b may also include a series of threaded fastener receiving openings (eg, Figure 4A 234 in the figure). Note that although Figure 4AOnly three fastener receiving openings 235 are referenced and twelve are shown in total, but any number of threaded fastener receiving openings can be implemented.Threaded fastener receiving openings can be constructed and positioned on flange 242 to align with the corresponding through holes in top section 200a.For example, top section 200a may include a series of through holes, which are positioned to align with the threaded fastener receiving openings in bottom section 200b.In order to seal top section 200a and attach to bottom section 200b, a series of fasteners (such as bolts) can pass through this series of through holes of top section 200a and be threadedly connected to the fastener receiving opening in bottom section 200b and tighten appropriately.Top section 200a can be separated from bottom section 200b by reversing the aforementioned process.Top section 200a can be separated from bottom section 200b to, for example, add sample to sample holding vessel 200, remove sample, and / or clean or reprocess and / or renovate sample holding vessel 200.

[0053] Figures 7 to 9 Additional views of the body 100 of an example cryogenic grinding system 50 are shown. Figure 7 FIG. 2 shows a cross section of an example of a body 100 with the sample holding vessel 200 removed. Figure 1A Pull the engagement rod 110 in the direction F shown in FIG. Figure 1A and Figure 2 ) causes the container 200 to engage with the opening 101 of the body 100 or otherwise be retained in the opening 101 of the body 100. In one example, rotating the engagement rod may result in activation of the engagement system. For example, rotating the engagement rod 110 in direction F may cause one or more pressing members to press upward in direction P (see Figure 1A and Figure 7 ), the pressing member can press upward, thereby pressing the guide rails 210a and 210b against the top of each corresponding track 112a and 112b of the body 100 and applying a clamping force to the sample holding vessel 200. The pressing member can, for example, include one or more cams 152 rotatably mounted in the body 100. The one or more cams 152 can have a cam profile with an increasing radius. The cam profile can be slidably mounted with one or more force transition members (e.g., Figure 2 The force transition member 182 shown in FIG. is in contact. Note that although Figure 2 Only a single force transition member 182 is labeled in FIG. 1 , but similar or identical force transition members (hidden from view) may be present on the opposite side of the body 100, within the opening 101. The increase in the radius of the cam profile may cause one or more slidably mounted force transition members 182 to translate upward in the direction P, thereby causing the pressing member to press upward, moving the guide rails 210a and 210b ( Figure 2) is pressed against the top of each respective track 112a and 112b of the body 100 and applies a clamping force to the sample holding vessel 200, for example, to seal the top section 200a to the bottom section 200b and / or seal the supply door 217 with the flange 242. The foregoing steps may be reversed to release the sample holding vessel 200 from the body 100. For example, rotating the engagement rod 110 opposite the direction F causes the one or more cams 152 to rotate in the direction R such that the reduced radius section of the cam contacts the force transition member(s) 182, thereby causing the force transition member(s) 182 to retract in the direction D and reduce or remove the upward force applied to the rails 210a and 210b. Retraction may cause the sample-holding vessel 200 to move downwardly relative to the body 100 in direction D, which may cause the blade drive coupling 220 to disengage from the drive coupling 120, the exhaust port 234 to separate from the exhaust conduit 134, and / or the cryogen supply port 232 to separate from the cryogen supply 132. Once the blade drive coupling 120 is disengaged from the drive coupling 220, the exhaust port 234 to separate from the exhaust conduit 134, and the cryogen supply port 232 to separate from the cryogen supply 132, the sample-holding vessel 200 may be slid out of the body 100, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown in .

[0054] In addition to the foregoing features, the sample holding vessel 200 may include one or more thermistor or temperature sensor ports 299a ( Figure 5A ) or 299b( Fig. 6A ). In one example, one or more thermistor or temperature sensor ports 299a and / or 299b may be configured to slidably receive one or more temperature sensors or thermistors. Fig. 6A In the example shown in FIG. 1 , two or more ports may be formed in the side of the sample holding vessel 200 so that when the guide rails 210a and 210b of the sample holding vessel 200 slide into the body 100 via the tracks 112a and 112b and the engagement rod 110 is rotated as mentioned above, one or more thermistors (e.g., thermistor 199) of the body 100 contact the surface of the inner wall (e.g., inner wall 252) of the sample holding vessel 200 so as to form a thermal path between the inner wall 252 and the thermistor 199, thereby allowing a control system (described in further detail below) to determine the temperature within the sample holding vessel 200. In one aspect that can be used for or in lieu of the aforementioned configuration, the sample holding vessel 200 may have a thermistor opening 299b. The thermistor opening may operate similarly to the aforementioned configuration, but the thermal contact between the thermistor and the inner wall of the sample holding vessel 200 may instead occur at the bottom of the sample holding vessel 200.

[0055] In yet another aspect that may be used in place of or in combination with any or both of the foregoing configurations, a thermistor or other temperature sensor or multiple thermistors or temperature sensors may be part of the sample holding vessel 200 (e.g., mounted to any interior wall of the sample holding vessel 200). Fig. 6A The thermistor 199 shown in FIG. 1 may instead be an electrical contact portion that provides electrical contact between the thermistor(s) or temperature sensor(s) of the body 100 and the sample holding vessel 200 .

[0056] As mentioned above, the drive coupling 120 can be configured to rotate in at least one of two directions, and can be configured to provide a rotational force to the (one or more) blades within the sample holding vessel 200 after being coupled to the blade drive coupling 220. The drive coupling 120 can be rotatably supported within the body 100 via the blade drive shaft 121. The blade drive shaft 121 can be rotatably supported via a bushing, a bearing, or a combination thereof. Figure 8 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the drive shaft 121 may be mechanically or otherwise operably connected to a motor 172 of the body 100. Some examples of a mechanical or operative connection between the motor 172 and the blade drive shaft 121 may include a belt or chain drive, a gear train, or in an alternative construction, the motor may be directly coupled to the blade drive shaft 121.

[0057] like Figure 8 , the exhaust duct 134 may be in fluid communication with a blower or ventilation device 150. The ventilation device 150 may be configured to draw gas from the exhaust duct 134 and lead to an outlet opening 189. The outlet opening 189 may be configured to remain open to the surrounding atmosphere, or may be configured to have an additional pipeline or pipe connected thereto for discharging the fluid (e.g., gas) generated during the processing of the sample contained in the sample holding vessel 200. The blower or ventilation device 150 may be any suitable electric blower or fan known in the art. As described in further detail below, the blower or vent may be powered by a controller or otherwise operated by a controller.

[0058] like Fig. 9As best shown in , the cryogen supply 132 of the body 100 can be fluidly connected to the cryogen input end 133. The cryogen input end 133 may include an electronically or hydraulically controlled valve 135 for controlling the supply of cryogen via the cryogen supply 132 to the cryogen supply port 232 of the sample holding vessel 200. As discussed in further detail below, the electronically or hydraulically controlled valve 135 can be controlled by a controller or otherwise powered by the controller. The cryogen supply can, for example, be insulated (e.g., via insulation 136). Insulation 136 can prevent condensation accumulation due to the cryogen supply having a temperature below the dew point of the surrounding environment. Note that although Fig. 9 Only partial insulation is shown in the figure to prevent obstruction of vision, but the entire cryogen conduit / tube can be insulated. The cryogen input end 133 can be configured to connect to a cryogen source, such as a liquid nitrogen source, for example. The cryogen input end 133 can be, for example, a standard connector (e.g., a National Pipe Thread "NPT" 3 / 8 type connector).

[0059] Fig.10 910, motor 914, and / or valve 916. Figure 1A , Figure 2 , Figure 5A , Fig. 6A , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 ), the temperature sensor(s) 912 may be similar to the thermistor 199 ( Fig. 6A ), the blower 950 may be similar to the blower or ventilation device 150 ( Figure 5A , Fig. 6A , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 ), motor 914 may be similar to motor 172 ( Figure 8 ), and valve 916 may be similar to valve 135 ( Fig. 9 ).

[0060] In an example operation of the controller, once it is determined that the sample is placed in the sample holding vessel 200 and the sample holding vessel 200 is placed in the main body 100. The user can indicate via the display interface 102 that the sample is to be processed. For example, the display interface 102 may, for example, have a graphical user interface (GUI) with an icon or other visual indicator, and the controller can determine that the user has touched or pressed an icon or other visual indicator indicating that the user wishes to process the sample. It is noted that although GUI is referenced throughout the disclosure as providing two indicators to the user and for allowing the user to control or type input into the device, in another aspect, the user can provide instructions via a switch knob. In addition, instead of a screen, a light or other indicator can be used to indicate the status of the device to the user.

[0061] Once a determination is made that the container is placed in the body 100 and the engagement rod 110 is rotated to the locked position, the controller may provide an electric current or signal to the valve 916 to provide the cryogen to the sample holding vessel 200. In one example, the user may input any one or combination of the weight, volume or type of the sample in the sample holding vessel 200, and the controller determines the volume of cryogen to be supplied to the sample holding vessel 200 based on any one or combination of the weight, volume or type of the sample input by the user. In another example, the controller may determine the weight of the sample placed in the sample holding vessel 200 based on the output from (one or more) mass sensors 910, and may automatically supply an appropriate volume of cryogen and / or may suggest an appropriate volume of cryogen to the container via the display interface 102. The GUI may then be controlled to request confirmation from the user and / or may provide an override option to allow the user to add or subtract the volume of cryogen from the suggested amount. In yet another example, once the user indicates that the sample is to be processed, the system may automatically supply a set volume of cryogen. In any one or combination of the foregoing examples, the initial volume of cryogen can be between 70-300 milliliters (mL). In yet another example, the initial volume of cryogen can be between 100-150mL. In a preferred aspect, the initial volume of cryogen can be between 140-150mL. In yet another preferred aspect, the initial volume of cryogen can be between 185-210mL. In one example, the controller can set the initial volume of the cryogen provided to the sample holding vessel 200 via valve 916 to approximately 200mL. In one example, the controller can use the output from (one or more) mass sensors to determine when to open / close valve 916 when the appropriate volume of cryogen has been added to the sample holding vessel 200.

[0062] In one example operation of a controller that may be used with the foregoing aspects, once an appropriate amount of cryogen, or more preferably when cryogen, is added to the sample holding vessel 200, the controller may operate the motor 914 to cause the blade(s) (e.g., Figure 4B The blade 204(b) and / or Figure 1B The blade 204a in the sample container 200 is rotated. In a preferred example, when cryogen is added to the sample container 200, the blade can be controlled to rotate in a first direction and then in a second reverse direction in a "pulse" motion. By alternating the direction of the blade as described above, a more uniform treatment of the sample with cryogen can occur, and the adhesion of the sample to the blade can be reduced. Once the cryogen of the desired volume is added, the controller can pause the rotation of the blade to allow the cryogen to remove heat from the sample and reduce the temperature of the sample to the desired temperature. The controller can determine whether the temperature of the sample has been reduced to the desired temperature by monitoring the output of (one or more) temperature sensors 912. Once the controller determines that the temperature of the sample has been reduced to the desired temperature, the motor can be powered again to grind or otherwise reduce the particle size of the sample in the sample container 200. In one example, the GUI displayed on the display interface 102 can indicate the temperature of the sample in the sample container 200. In one aspect, the GUI may include an indicator or part that allows the user to override the desired temperature of the sample and / or set the desired temperature before the motor is controlled again to rotate the blade, so that additional grinding of the sample or reduction of the particle size occurs.

[0063] In one example, the temperature of the sample in the sample holding vessel 200 can be continuously monitored. In the aforementioned example, an upper temperature limit and a lower temperature limit can be set, and if the temperature of the sample in the sample holding vessel 200 increases to above the threshold temperature or fails to be reduced to below the threshold temperature, the controller can supply additional cryogen. In one example, the cryogen can be liquid nitrogen with a boiling point of about -198 degrees Celsius, and the threshold temperature can be any value between -50 to -198 degrees Celsius. In another example, the threshold temperature can be any value between -100 to -170 degrees Celsius. In a preferred example, the threshold temperature can be -140 degrees Celsius. Therefore, in the aforementioned example, if the controller determines that the temperature of the sample in the sample holding vessel 200 is higher than -140 degrees Celsius, the valve 916 is controlled to provide additional liquid nitrogen to the sample holding vessel 200 until the temperature is determined to be reduced to at least 140 degrees Celsius. Although the aforementioned example provides advantages, it is noted that any temperature or temperature range (especially in the aforementioned range) can be used as the threshold temperature.

[0064] In any of the foregoing examples, the controller may also control (one or more) blowers 950. The blower may, for example, be controlled to remove gas that accumulates within the sample holding vessel 200 when the cryogen boils. In some examples, the controller may turn on the blower at any time when cryogen is present in the sample holding vessel 200. In another example, the controller may turn on the blower when it is determined that the temperature within the sample holding vessel 200 has dropped below a certain temperature. For example, if a desired or optimal temperature range for the sample is set or provided, the blower may be turned on when the temperature of the sample in the sample holding vessel 200 approaches or drops below the desired temperature range.

[0065] In another example, the motor speed and thus the blade speed may be controlled based on any one or combination of the aforementioned determinations. For example, the blade speed may be controlled to be slower when the detected temperature is above a threshold temperature, and then may be controlled to increase when the temperature drops below the threshold temperature. In another example, after the user indicates that the sample in the sample holding vessel 200 is to be processed, the blade speed may be controlled to be lower in a first period of time, and then may be controlled to increase to a higher speed in a second period of time after the first period of time.

[0066] Note that the aforementioned operations are provided as examples. Although some specific examples are given, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that additional possibilities for automated, semi-automated or manual control of the disclosed cryogenic grinding apparatus systems and devices will fall within the scope of the present disclosure after understanding the disclosure provided herein.

[0067] In some embodiments, as part of or incorporated into the various features and methods described herein, one or more microcontrollers (e.g., in any one or combination of controller 902, liquid source controller 904, motor controller 906, and / or blower controller 908) may be implemented for performing various operations according to aspects of the present invention. The various components of such controller 1100 are described in detail in detail below. Fig.11 is shown in a representative block diagram form. Fig.11 , the controller 1100 includes a CPU 1102 , a clock 1104 , a RAM 1108 , a ROM 1110 , a timer 1112 , a bus controller 1114 , an interface 1116 , and an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 1118 interconnected via a bus 1106 .

[0068] The CPU 1102 may be implemented as one or more single-core or multi-core processors and receives signals from an interrupt controller 1120 and a clock 1104. The clock 1104 may set the operating frequency of the entire microcontroller 1100 and may include one or more crystal oscillators with a predetermined frequency. Alternatively, the clock 1104 may receive an external clock signal. The interrupt controller 1120 may also send an interrupt signal to the CPU to suspend CPU operation. The interrupt controller 1120 may transmit an interrupt signal to the CPU when an event requires the CPU's immediate attention.

[0069] RAM 1108 may include one or more static random access memories (SRAM), dynamic random access memories (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memories (SDRAM), double data rate random access memories (DDR SDRAM), or other suitable volatile memories. Read-only memory (ROM) 1110 may include one or more programmable read-only memories (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memories (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memories (EEPROM), flash memories, or other types of non-volatile memories.

[0070] The timer 1112 may keep time and / or calculate the amount of time between events occurring within the controller 1100, count the number of events, and / or generate a baud rate for communication transmissions. The bus controller 1114 may prioritize bus usage within the controller 1100. The ADC 1118 may allow the controller 1100 to send pulses to signal other devices.

[0071] The interface 1116 may include input / output devices that allow the controller 1100 to exchange information with other devices. In some implementations, the interface 1116 may include one or more of a parallel port, a serial port, or other computer interface.

[0072] In addition, aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination thereof, and may be implemented in one or more computer systems or other processing systems. In aspects of the present disclosure, features are directed to one or more computer systems capable of performing the functions described herein. Examples of such computer systems 2000 are provided in Fig.12 Shown in.

[0073] Computer system 2000 may include one or more processors, such as processor 2004. Processor 2004 may be connected to a communication infrastructure 2006 (e.g., a communication bus, a crossbar, or a network). Various software aspects are described based on this example computer system. After reading this specification, it will become apparent to those skilled in the relevant art how to implement aspects of the present disclosure using other computer systems and / or architectures.

[0074] The computer system 2000 may include a display interface 2002 that forwards graphics, text, and other data from the communication infrastructure 2006 (or from a frame buffer not shown) for display on a display unit 2030, which may be similar to the display interface 102. The computer system 2000 also includes a main memory 2008, preferably a random access memory (RAM), and may also include a secondary memory 2010. The secondary memory 2010 may include, for example, a hard disk drive 2012 and / or a removable storage drive 2014 representing a floppy disk drive, a tape drive, an optical disk drive, a universal serial bus (USB) flash drive, etc. The removable storage drive 2014 reads from and / or writes to a removable storage unit 2018 in a well-known manner. The removable storage unit 2018 represents a floppy disk, a tape, an optical disk, a USB flash drive, etc. that is read by and written to the removable storage drive 2014. As will be appreciated, the removable storage unit 2018 includes a computer-usable storage medium having computer software and / or data stored therein.

[0075] Alternative aspects of the present disclosure may include secondary memory 2010, and may include other similar devices for allowing computer programs or other instructions to be loaded into the computer system 2000. Such devices may include, for example, a removable storage unit 2022 and an interface 2020. Such examples may include a program cartridge and cartridge interface such as found in a video game device, a removable memory chip such as an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) or a programmable read-only memory (PROM) and an associated socket, and other removable storage units 2022 and interfaces 2020 that allow software and data to be transferred from the removable storage unit 2022 to the computer system 2000.

[0076] The computer system 2000 may also include a communication interface 2024. The communication interface 2024 allows software and data to be transmitted between the computer system 2000 and external devices. Examples of the communication interface 2024 may include a modem, a network interface (such as an Ethernet card), a communication port, a personal computer memory card international association (PCMCIA) slot and card, etc. The software and data transmitted via the communication interface 2024 are in the form of a signal 2028, which may be an electronic, electromagnetic, optical or other signal that can be received by the communication interface 2024. These signals 2028 are provided to the communication interface 2024 via a communication path (e.g., channel) 2026. The path 2026 carries the signal 2028 and can be implemented using wires or cables, optical fibers, telephone lines, cellular links, RF links and / or other communication channels. In this document, the terms "computer program medium" and "computer-usable medium" are used to generally refer to media such as a removable storage drive 2018, a hard disk installed in a hard disk drive 2012, and a signal 2028. These computer program products provide software to computer system 2000. Aspects of the present disclosure relate to such computer program products.

[0077] Computer programs (also referred to as computer control logic) are stored in the main memory 2008 and / or the secondary memory 2010. The computer programs may also be received via the communication interface 2024. Such computer programs, when executed, enable the computer system 2000 to perform features in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, as discussed herein. In particular, the computer programs, when executed, enable the processor 2004 to perform features in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Thus, such computer programs represent a controller of the computer system 2000.

[0078] In aspects of the present disclosure where software is used to implement the method, the software may be stored in a computer program product and loaded into the computer system 2000 using the removable storage drive 2014, the hard disk drive 2012, or the communication interface 2020. When executed by the processor 2004, the control logic (software) causes the processor 2004 to perform the functions described herein. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the system is implemented primarily in hardware using, for example, hardware components such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). It will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art to implement a hardware state machine in order to perform the functions described herein.

[0079] Fig.122100 includes one or more accessors 2160, 2162 (which may, for example, include any of the aforementioned systems and features) and one or more terminals 2142, 2166. In one aspect, data for use according to aspects of the present disclosure is input and / or accessed by accessors 2160, 2162 via terminals 2142, 2166, such as personal computers (PCs), minicomputers, mainframe computers, microcomputers, telephone devices, or wireless devices, such as personal digital assistants ("PDAs") or handheld wireless devices connected to servers 2143, such as PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, microcomputers, or other devices having a processor and a data repository and / or a connection to the data repository via, for example, a network 2144 (such as the Internet or an intranet) and connections 2145, 2146, 2164. The connections 2145, 2146, 2164 include, for example, wired, wireless, or fiber optic links. In another example variation, methods and systems according to aspects of the present disclosure operate in a standalone environment, such as on a single terminal.

[0080] This written description uses examples to disclose aspects of the present invention, including preferred embodiments, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice aspects of the present invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined methods. The patentable scope of these aspects is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. If these other examples have structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims, such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims. A person of ordinary skill in the art may mix and match aspects from the various embodiments described and other known equivalents of each such aspect to construct additional embodiments and techniques according to the principles of the present application. IV. Example Implementations The following clauses include example implementations of the aspects described herein.

[0081] Clause 1. A cryogenic grinding system for processing a sample, the system comprising: Refrigerant source; A container for containing the sample and the cryogen; a blade for grinding the sample; and A controller configured to control at least one of: an amount of cryogen introduced into the container; a grinding duration of at least one of the blades; or a grinding speed of at least one of the blades, the control being based on at least one of: a user input via a grinding system input, a mass of the sample placed in the holding vessel; or a temperature within the holding vessel.

[0082] Clause 2. The system of clause 1, wherein the cryogen source is liquid nitrogen.

[0083] Clause 3. The system of clause 1 and / or clause 2, wherein the controller controls the amount of the cryogen based on a signal indicative of a mass of the sample placed in the holding vessel.

[0084] Clause 4. A system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the signal is an output of a quality measurement unit.

[0085] Clause 5. The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the signal is based on a user input via an input of the grinding system.

[0086] Clause 6. The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the cryogen source is a valve configured to be placed in fluid communication with a cryogen tank.

[0087] Clause 7. The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the cryogen source is a cryogen tank.

[0088] Clause 8. The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the holding vessel is slidably removable from a body of the system.

[0089] Clause 9. The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the holding vessel is removable from a body of the system, wherein the system further comprises an engagement lever, wherein user engagement of the lever results in operative coupling of the motor to the blade.

[0090] Clause 10. The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the amount of the cryogen introduced into the container is controlled via a valve.

[0091] Clause 11. The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the amount of the cryogen introduced into the container is increased or decreased based on the temperature within the holding vessel.

[0092] Clause 12. The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the amount of the cryogen introduced into the container is increased or decreased based on user input via the grinding system input.

[0093] Clause 13. The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the amount of the cryogen introduced into the container is controlled based on the mass of the sample.

[0094] Clause 14. The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the mass of the sample is determined via a mass measurement unit.

[0095] Clause 15. A cryogenic grinding apparatus for processing a sample, the apparatus comprising: Refrigerant supply valve; an opening configured to receive a holding vessel for holding the sample; a blade drive; and A controller configured to control at least one of: an amount of refrigerant introduced into a vessel received in the opening; a duration of rotation of the blade drive; a speed of the blade drive, the control being based on at least one of: a user input via a grinding system input, a detected mass of the sample in a holding vessel placed in the opening; or a temperature within the holding vessel placed in the opening.

[0096] Clause 16. The apparatus of Clause 15, wherein liquid nitrogen is supplied to the cryogen supply valve.

[0097] Clause 17. The apparatus of Clause 15 and / or Clause 16, wherein the controller controls the amount of the cryogen supplied to the holding vessel placed in the opening based on a signal indicative of a mass of the sample within the holding vessel.

[0098] Clause 18. Apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the signal is an output of a quality measurement unit.

[0099] Clause 19. The apparatus of any preceding clause, wherein the signal is based on a user input via the grinding system input.

[0100] Clause 20. The device of any of the preceding clauses, wherein a holding vessel is slidably insertable into or slidably removable from the cryogenic grinding device.

[0101] Clause 21. A cryogenic grinding apparatus for processing a sample in a container, the apparatus comprising: an opening configured to receive the receiving vessel; and A coupling system, wherein, when the receiving vessel is placed into the opening, the coupling system is configured to couple at least one of: a drive connector with a blade drive connector of the receiving vessel; a refrigerant supply with a refrigerant supply port of the receiving vessel; or an exhaust duct with an exhaust port of the receiving vessel.

[0102] Clause 22. The device of Clause 21, wherein the engagement system is configured to move the holding vessel from an engaged configuration to a disengaged configuration.

[0103] Clause 23. The cryogenic grinding apparatus of clauses 21 and / or 22, wherein the engagement system is configured to clamp closed a sample receiving opening of the holding vessel.

Claims

1. A cryogenic grinding system for processing a sample, the system comprising: Refrigerant source; A container for containing the sample and the cryogen; a blade, the blade being used for grinding the sample; as well as A controller configured to control at least one of: an amount of cryogen introduced into the container; a grinding duration of at least one of the blades; or a grinding speed of at least one of the blades, the control being based on at least one of: a user input via a grinding system input, a mass of the sample placed in the holding vessel; or a temperature within the holding vessel.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The cryogen source is liquid nitrogen.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The controller controls the amount of the cryogen based on a signal indicative of the mass of the sample placed in the holding vessel.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein: The signal is the output of the mass measurement unit.

5. The system according to claim 3, wherein: The signal is based on a user input via an input of the grinding system.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The cryogen source is a valve configured to be placed in fluid communication with a cryogen tank.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The cryogen source is a cryogen tank.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The receiving vessel is slidably removable from a main body of the system.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The receiving vessel is removable from a body of the system, wherein the system further comprises an engagement lever, wherein user engagement of the lever results in operative coupling of the motor to the blade.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The amount of the cryogen introduced into the container is controlled via a valve.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The amount of the cryogen introduced into the container is increased or decreased based on the temperature within the holding vessel.

12. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The amount of cryogen introduced into the container is increased or decreased based on user input via the grinding system input.

13. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The amount of the cryogen introduced into the container is controlled based on the mass of the sample.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein: The mass of the sample is determined via a mass measurement unit.

15. A cryogenic grinding apparatus for processing a sample, the apparatus comprising: Refrigerant supply valve; an opening configured to receive a holding vessel for holding the sample; Blade drive device; as well as A controller configured to control at least one of: an amount of refrigerant introduced into a vessel received in the opening; a duration of rotation of the blade drive; a speed of the blade drive, the control being based on at least one of: a user input via a grinding system input, a detected mass of the sample in a holding vessel placed in the opening; or a temperature within the holding vessel placed in the opening.

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein: Liquid nitrogen is supplied to the cryogen supply valve.

17. The device according to claim 15, wherein: The controller controls an amount of the cryogen supplied to a holding vessel placed in the opening based on a signal indicative of a mass of the sample within the holding vessel.

18. The device according to claim 17, wherein: The signal is the output of the mass measurement unit.

19. The device according to claim 17, wherein: The signal is based on a user input via an input of the grinding system.

20. The device according to claim 15, wherein: The holding vessel is slidably insertable into or slidably removable from the cryogenic grinding device.

21. A cryogenic grinding device for processing a sample in a container, the device comprising: an opening configured to receive the receiving vessel; as well as an engagement system, wherein, when the receiving vessel is placed into the opening, the engagement system is configured to engage at least one of: a drive coupler with a blade drive coupler of the receiving vessel; a refrigerant supply portion and a refrigerant supply port of the container; or an exhaust duct and an exhaust port of the container.

22. The device according to claim 21, wherein The engagement system is configured to move the receiving vessel from an engaged configuration to a disengaged configuration.

23. The cryogenic grinding apparatus of claim 21, wherein: The engagement system is configured to clamp closed the sample receiving opening of the holding vessel.

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