Low-temperature sample sorting platform

Abstract

The utility model discloses a low-temperature sample sorting platform which comprises a sorting box body, an operation table, a sample sorting bin and a liquid nitrogen filling bin are arranged in the sorting box body, a to-be-sorted area and a scanning recognition area close to the to-be-sorted area are arranged on one side of the operation table, and a cryopreservation area is arranged on the side, away from the to-be-sorted area, of the operation table. A plurality of cryopreservation boxes are arranged in the cryopreservation area; a mechanical arm is further arranged above the sorting box body, a clamping jaw is arranged at the execution end of the mechanical arm, and the clamping jaw is used for picking up cryopreservation tube samples located in the to-be-sorted area and moving the cryopreservation tube samples to the scanning recognition area and the cryopreservation area; a heat preservation cover capable of being opened and closed is further arranged above the sorting box body. The low-temperature sample sorting platform not only can provide a low-temperature operating environment, but also can provide mechanical and automatic operation, and meanwhile can provide a low-temperature storage space after sorting operation is completed, so that samples can be sorted and stored according to requirements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of sample storage platform technology, specifically to a low-temperature sample processing platform. Background Technology

[0002] Common sample cryopreservation methods (such as cell cryopreservation) typically employ gradient cooling. Samples are first cooled to -80°C using a programmed temperature controller, then processed using a low-temperature sample handling platform, and finally transferred to a -196°C liquid nitrogen environment for long-term storage. During the transfer from -80°C to -196°C, the samples need to be sorted and arranged, and the temperature rise must be strictly controlled to avoid affecting sample quality; this requires the use of a low-temperature sample handling platform.

[0003] Common sample handling platforms are mostly manual operation platforms. For cryopreserved samples, a liquid nitrogen low-temperature environment is required. When manually handling samples in the platform, the low temperature can easily cause frostbite to personnel. If the sample is handled outside the low-temperature environment, it will be unfriendly to the sample. In addition, manual sample handling also poses a safety risk to the sample and has low operation efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a low-temperature sample processing platform to address the problems existing in the prior art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows:

[0006] A low-temperature sample processing platform includes a processing box with an operating table inside. The operating table divides the processing box into upper and lower areas: an upper sample processing chamber and a lower liquid nitrogen filling chamber. One side of the operating table has a processing area and a scanning and recognition area adjacent to the processing area. The side of the operating table away from the processing area has a cryopreservation area with several cryopreservation boxes. A robotic arm is also provided above the processing box, with a gripper at its execution end. The gripper is used to pick up cryopreservation tube samples located in the processing area and move them to the scanning and recognition area and the cryopreservation area. An openable and closable insulated cover is also provided above the processing box.

[0007] This low-temperature sample preparation platform provides a low-temperature operating environment, as well as mechanized and automated operation. It also provides a low-temperature storage space after the preparation process is completed, so that the samples can be prepared and stored according to requirements. Moreover, the entire platform has a simple structure and is easy to use.

[0008] The sorting area contains scattered cryopreserved tube samples. The robotic arm and grippers are designed to flexibly and conveniently grasp these samples and move them to the scanning and recognition area. The scanning and recognition area identifies the moving cryopreserved tube samples and sends the identification information to the central controller. The central controller allocates storage locations based on the identification information and sends storage instructions to the robotic arm's controller. The robotic arm then places the identified cryopreserved tube samples into designated cryopreservation boxes. Through this structure and operation, automated gripping, recognition, and movement of samples enable automated sorting in low-temperature environments, eliminating the need for manual operation. This improves sorting efficiency and avoids risks of frostbite to personnel and sample safety.

[0009] Furthermore, the liquid nitrogen filling chamber is equipped with a liquid level sensor or liquid level gauge, and a filling port with a valve is provided on one side of the liquid nitrogen filling chamber. The filling port is used to connect to a liquid nitrogen filling metal hose, which is connected to a liquid nitrogen storage tank so as to inject liquid nitrogen into the liquid nitrogen filling chamber.

[0010] Furthermore, the sample processing chamber is equipped with at least one set of temperature sensors and a humidity sensor. This allows for real-time monitoring of the temperature in the frozen storage area, ensuring traceability of temperature data during the processing and enhancing compliance.

[0011] Furthermore, several of the cryopreservation boxes are arranged in order in the cryopreservation area, and each cryopreservation box is provided with a serial number label so that they can be stored in sequence.

[0012] Furthermore, the scanning and identification area is equipped with a scanning and identification board installed on the operating table. The scanning and identification board contains an radio frequency module, and the cryopreservation tube sample is equipped with an electronic tag compatible with the radio frequency module. The two work together to read the information stored in the electronic tag of the current cryopreservation tube sample and send the acquired information to the central control panel.

[0013] Furthermore, a central control panel is mounted on one side of the sorting box via a bracket, and the controller of the robotic arm is electrically connected to the central control panel.

[0014] Furthermore, the inner wall of the sorting box is equipped with a defogging light near the scanning and recognition area.

[0015] Furthermore, the heat preservation cover is provided with multiple handles for easy handling; the side of the sorting box is provided with a support platform so that the robotic arm can be mounted on the support platform.

[0016] Furthermore, the front of the sorting box is also provided with a transparent window, allowing the interior of the box to be observed from the outside.

[0017] Furthermore, the side wall of the sorting box is equipped with a push handle, and the bottom of the sorting box is equipped with multiple casters with brakes to facilitate its movement.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows: 1. This low-temperature sample sorting platform can provide a low-temperature operating environment, as well as mechanized and automated operation. It also provides a low-temperature storage space after the sorting operation is completed, allowing for sample sorting and preservation according to requirements. Furthermore, the entire platform has a simple structure and is easy to use. 2. The operating table is located inside the sorting box, which not only divides the internal space to accommodate the liquid nitrogen filling chamber and the sample sorting chamber, but also provides a platform for sorting and identifying scattered cryopreservation tube samples, and supports and places cryopreservation boxes. 3. Placing the operating table inside the sorting box maintains a certain low-temperature environment, allowing the sorting operation to be carried out in a low-temperature environment. After sorting, covering it with the insulation cover further creates the low-temperature environment required for cryopreservation. 4. Through the structure and operation of this sorting platform, automated gripping, identification, and movement can achieve automatic sample sorting in a low-temperature environment, eliminating the need for manual operation in a low-temperature environment. This improves sorting efficiency and avoids risks of frostbite to personnel and sample safety. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a low-temperature sample processing platform according to the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a low-temperature sample processing platform according to the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a top view of the structure of a low-temperature sample processing platform according to the present invention.

[0022] Figure 4 This is another structural schematic diagram of a low-temperature sample processing platform according to the present invention;

[0023] In the diagram: 1. Sorting box; 2. Operating table; 3. Sample sorting chamber; 4. Liquid nitrogen filling chamber; 5. Area to be sorted; 6. Scanning and recognition area; 7. Scanning and recognition plate; 8. Cryopreservation area; 9. Cryopreservation box; 10. Robotic arm; 11. Gripper; 12. Liquid level sensor; 13. Temperature sensor; 14. Divider; 15. Insulation cover; 16. Handle; 17. Filling port; 18. Liquid nitrogen filling metal hose; 19. Central control panel; 20. Hand push rod; 21. Casters; 22. Support platform; 23. Transparent window. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The technical solution of this utility model will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this utility model, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0025] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "middle", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and 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 utility model. Example 1

[0026] like Figures 1-3 As shown, a low-temperature sample processing platform includes a processing box 1. An operating table 2 is provided inside the processing box 1, dividing the processing box 1 into upper and lower areas: an upper sample processing chamber 3 and a lower liquid nitrogen filling chamber 4. One side of the operating table 2 has a processing area 5 and a scanning and identification area 6 adjacent to the processing area 5. The side of the operating table 2 away from the processing area 5 has a cryopreservation area 8, which contains several cryopreservation boxes 9. A robotic arm 10 is also provided above the processing box 1. The execution end of the robotic arm 10 has grippers 11, which are used to pick up cryopreservation tube samples located in the processing area 5 and move them to the scanning and identification area 6 and the cryopreservation area 8. An openable and closable insulated cover 15 is also provided above the processing box 1.

[0027] This low-temperature sample preparation platform provides a low-temperature operating environment, as well as mechanized and automated operation. It also provides a low-temperature storage space after the preparation process is completed, so that the samples can be prepared and stored according to requirements. Moreover, the entire platform has a simple structure and is easy to use.

[0028] The operating table 2 is located inside the sorting box, which not only divides the internal space of the box to accommodate the liquid nitrogen filling chamber 4 and the sample sorting chamber 3, but also provides a platform for sorting and identifying scattered cryopreservation tube samples, and supports and places the cryopreservation boxes 9. Placing the operating table 2 inside the sorting box maintains a certain low-temperature environment, allowing the sorting operations to be performed in a low-temperature environment. After sorting is completed, closing the insulated cover further creates the low-temperature environment required for cryopreservation.

[0029] The sorting area 5 contains scattered cryopreserved tube samples. The robotic arm 10 and the gripper 11 are designed to flexibly and conveniently grasp the cryopreserved tube samples and move them to the scanning and recognition area 6. The scanning and recognition area 6 can identify the moved cryopreserved tube samples and send the identification information to the central controller. The central controller allocates storage locations based on the identification information and sends storage instructions to the controller of the robotic arm 10. In this way, the robotic arm 10 can place the identified cryopreserved tube samples into the designated cryopreservation box 9. Through the above structure and operation, automated gripping, identification, and movement can achieve automatic sample sorting in a low-temperature environment, eliminating the need for manual operation in a low-temperature environment. This improves sorting efficiency and avoids the risks of frostbite to personnel and sample safety.

[0030] The robotic arm 10 can be a commercially available mature product, such as a three-axis or five-axis automated robotic arm. The gripper 11 can be an electric gripper or a pneumatic gripper. The model of the gripper can be selected according to the size and model of the frozen tube sample being gripped.

[0031] Furthermore, the liquid nitrogen filling chamber 4 is equipped with a liquid level sensor 12 or a liquid level gauge to monitor the liquid nitrogen level inside the chamber. One side of the liquid nitrogen filling chamber 4 has a filling port 17 with a valve, which is used to connect to a liquid nitrogen filling metal hose 18. The liquid nitrogen filling metal hose 18 is connected to a liquid nitrogen source to inject liquid nitrogen into the liquid nitrogen filling chamber 4, allowing the chamber to reach a cryogenic environment. The liquid nitrogen filling chamber may also be equipped with a drain port with a valve.

[0032] Furthermore, the sample sorting chamber 3 is equipped with at least one set of temperature sensors 13, and also with a humidity sensor. The temperature sensors 13 can monitor the temperature of the frozen storage area in real time, ensuring that the temperature data during the sorting process is traceable and more compliant.

[0033] Furthermore, several cryopreservation boxes 9 are arranged in sequence in the cryopreservation area 8. Each cryopreservation box 9 is equipped with a serial number label and may also be equipped with a position sensor. This arrangement allows the cryopreservation boxes 9 to be arranged sequentially according to a preset serial number order, so that the cryopreservation tube samples held by the robotic arm can be delivered to the designated position. For example, 2-3 rows of cryopreservation boxes can be set up, with 3-5 boxes in each row.

[0034] Furthermore, the scanning and identification area 6 is provided with a scanning and identification board 7 installed on the operating table 2. The scanning and identification board 7 is provided with an radio frequency module, and the cryopreservation tube sample is provided with an electronic tag that is compatible with the radio frequency module.

[0035] When the clamped cryopreservation tube sample moves above the scanning and identification plate, the electronic tag and the radio frequency module interact to read the information stored in the electronic tag of the current cryopreservation tube sample and send the acquired information to the central control panel.

[0036] The radio frequency module can be an RFID radio frequency module, which typically includes a reader and an antenna. By placing it within the scanning and identification area, the moving electronic tag can be identified.

[0037] In some embodiments, a partition 14 is provided between the sorting area 5 and the scanning and recognition area 6. The partition 14 is provided to prevent the scattered cryopreservation tube samples in the sorting area from rolling into the scanning and recognition area to avoid misreading, and to isolate the electronic tags in the sorting area to avoid interference.

[0038] Furthermore, a central control panel 19 is mounted on one side of the sorting box 1 via a bracket. The central control panel 19 includes a central controller and a display screen, and the controller of the robotic arm 10 is electrically connected to the central control panel 19. The temperature sensor 13, the humidity sensor, the liquid level sensor 12, and the radio frequency module can all be electrically connected to the central control panel 19 so that the central control panel 19 can acquire relevant information and data.

[0039] Furthermore, the heat preservation cover 15 is provided with multiple handles 16 to facilitate lifting the heat preservation cover 15; the side of the sorting box 1 is provided with a support platform 22, and the robotic arm 10 is installed on the support platform 22. The support platform 22 is provided on the side to support and install the robotic arm, so as to avoid the installation of the robotic arm 10 occupying the space on both sides of the heat preservation cover.

[0040] Furthermore, the side wall of the organizing box 1 is provided with a push handle 20, and the bottom of the organizing box 1 is provided with multiple casters 21 equipped with brakes. This arrangement facilitates the movement of the organizing box 1 and allows it to be parked in a certain position. Example 2

[0041] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that it provides an alternative identification method.

[0042] Specifically, the scanning and identification area 6 is equipped with a barcode scanner that is electrically connected to the central control panel. The cryopreservation tube sample is equipped with a barcode or QR code. When the robotic arm moves the cryopreservation tube sample to the scanning and identification area, the barcode scanner is aligned with the barcode or QR code, and the light emitted by the light source shines on the barcode symbol. The reflected light is imaged on the photoelectric converter by the optical system and interpreted by the decoding circuit into a digital signal that can be directly accepted by the computer.

[0043] Furthermore, the inner wall of the sorting box 1 is equipped with a defogging light near the scanning and recognition area. The defogging light is turned on as needed. If fog is observed in the area or fogging occurs on the surface of the scanner, the defogging light can be turned on to remove the fog so that normal scanning and recognition can be performed.

[0044] Furthermore, such as Figure 4 As shown, the front of the sorting box 1 is also provided with a transparent window 23. The transparent window 23 is provided with sealed and heat-insulating hollow or vacuum glass, which allows the internal sorting process to be observed from the outside. During the subsequent freezing process, the internal condition of the box can also be observed without opening the lid.

[0045] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A low-temperature sample processing platform, characterized in that, The device includes a sorting box, inside which is an operating table that divides the sorting box into upper and lower sections: an upper sample sorting chamber and a lower liquid nitrogen filling chamber. One side of the operating table has a sample preparation area and a scanning and identification area adjacent to the sample preparation area. The side of the operating table away from the sample preparation area has a cryopreservation area containing several cryopreservation boxes. A robotic arm is also located above the sorting box, with grippers at its actuating end. These grippers are used to pick up cryopreservation tube samples located in the sample preparation area and move them to the scanning and identification area and the cryopreservation area. A closable insulated cover is also located above the sorting box.

2. The low-temperature sample preparation platform according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid nitrogen filling chamber is equipped with a liquid level sensor or liquid level gauge, and a filling port with a valve is provided on one side of the liquid nitrogen filling chamber. The filling port is used to connect to the liquid nitrogen filling metal hose.

3. The low-temperature sample processing platform according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sample sorting chamber is equipped with at least one set of temperature sensors and a humidity sensor.

4. The low-temperature sample preparation platform according to claim 1, characterized in that, Several cryopreservation boxes are arranged in sequence in the cryopreservation area, and each cryopreservation box is labeled with a serial number.

5. The low-temperature sample preparation platform according to claim 1, characterized in that, The scanning and identification area is equipped with a scanning and identification board installed on the operating table. The scanning and identification board is equipped with an radio frequency module, and the cryopreservation tube sample is equipped with an electronic tag that is compatible with the radio frequency module.

6. The low-temperature sample preparation platform according to claim 1, characterized in that, A central control panel is mounted on one side of the sorting box via a bracket, and the controller of the robotic arm is electrically connected to the central control panel.

7. The low-temperature sample preparation platform according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the sorting box is equipped with a defogging light near the scanning and recognition area.

8. The low-temperature sample preparation platform according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat-insulating cover is equipped with multiple handles, and the side of the sorting box is equipped with a support platform, on which the robotic arm is mounted.

9. The low-temperature sample preparation platform according to claim 1, characterized in that, The front of the sorting box also has a transparent window.

10. The low-temperature sample preparation platform according to claim 1, characterized in that, The side wall of the sorting box is equipped with a push handle, and the bottom of the sorting box is equipped with multiple casters with brakes.

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