Cryopreservation device equipped with an integrated tracking device chamber

Abstract

The present invention provides a cryopreservation device comprising an integrated tracking device chamber. The tracking device can be an RFID tag that can be disposed in the cryopreservation device as part of a procedure for vitrification of biological samples. The cryopreservation device maintains its integrity and firmly holds the RFID tag within the chamber both under ambient conditions when collecting the sample and under liquid nitrogen in which the sample is stored. A cryopreservation device with an integrated tracking device chamber can provide individual biological samples with their own tracking devices for monitoring during cryopreservation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross-reference) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 136,419, filed on Apr. 19, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention generally relates to the field of cryopreservation devices for biological samples. More specifically, the present invention relates to devices that can be remotely identified by RFID technology.

Background Art

[0003] Cryopreservation is carried out in life sciences to arrest biological activity in living cells for a long period. The technique used for cryopreservation is vitrification.

[0004] Vitrification involves converting a solution containing a biological sample, such as an oocyte or embryo, into a glassy amorphous solid that does not contain any crystal structure and then cooling it very rapidly. One of the major problems with this method is to prevent the formation of ice crystals inside the oocyte or embryo. Thus, the first step is to dehydrate the cells as much as possible using a cryoprotectant containing a fluid called a "vitrification medium". Then, the biological sample is immersed in a cryogenic fluid such as liquid nitrogen (LN 2 ) and rapidly cooled. By appropriately combining the cooling rate and the cryoprotectant concentration, the intracellular water becomes a solid harmless glass (vitreous body) state instead of an orderly harmful crystalline ice state. Vitrification can be described as a rapid increase in the fluid viscosity that traps water molecules in a random arrangement. However, the vitrification medium can contain a relatively large amount of cryoprotectants that are toxic to cells other than the glassy state. As a result, it is necessary to carefully control the time of exposing the cells to the vitrification medium during dehydration and warming to avoid cell damage, and accordingly, it is desirable to cool the sample as quickly as possible.

[0005] The CryoLock cryopreservation device was developed as a general-purpose, simple, and efficient vitrification device for the purpose of holding, cryopreserving, and storing oocytes or embryos in liquid nitrogen. The sample can be rapidly cooled and stored without direct contact with sterile liquid nitrogen (LN 2 ). It is a cryopreservation device. The CryoLock cryopreservation device is described in Patent Document 1 published on June 23, 2016, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] The CryoLock cryopreservation device uses a combination of semi-flexible plastic and functional design, including a specific shape and a closed gap, to seal the sample inside the cryopreservation device at room temperature and maintain the seal when cooling the cryopreservation device and the sample to the temperature of liquid nitrogen.

[0007] Since it is costly to store samples in liquid nitrogen, multiple samples are stored in a predetermined cryostorage tank. Since the entire cryopreservation device is stored in the cryostorage tank, the size of each cryopreservation device and the packaging characteristics of such cryopreservation devices affect the required space and, in turn, the storage cost. In addition to simple space issues, quality control and auditing are required to track the identification and storage status of each sample over time. If it is necessary to remove the cryopreservation devices from the cryostorage device during quality inspection, temperature changes may affect the long-term viability of the samples.

[0008] It is necessary to be able to identify each sample / device within the cryostorage tank without removing the cryopreservation device from the cryostorage tank. It is necessary to maintain or reduce the size of the cryopreservation device that is self-identifiable, especially at the single biological sample level. The ability to identify each sample / device needs to be maintained throughout the life cycle of collection, storage, retrieval, and use of each sample.

[0009] There are several challenges in incorporating an RFID tag into each cryopreservation device. First, it is necessary to sterilize the part of the device that holds the biological sample, usually by gamma rays, which may impair the functional capabilities of the RFID tag. Also, the incorporation of this RFID tag needs to be compatible with the workflow during the vitrification process, which means that since the time from sample collection to immersion in liquid nitrogen is necessarily short, the RFID tag needs to be firmly joined as part of the cryopreservation device before the biological sample is collected. The RFID tag needs to be firmly held by the cryopreservation device under ambient conditions and liquid nitrogen temperature, and the cryopreservation device must not be damaged during such a large temperature change. It is necessary to minimize the increase in the size of the cryopreservation device capable of holding the RFID tag. Ideally, the RFID tag can be fixed to the cryopreservation device without the need for an adhesive that is affected by low temperatures.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0010]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cryopreservation device capable of holding a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is provided. The cryopreservation device includes a) an elongated stick including an RFID portion, an elongated body, and a sample collection tip, and b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip. The cap can enclose the sample collection tip within the hollow chamber when removably attached to the elongated stick. The RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip, and the RFID portion is capable of holding the RFID tag.

[0012] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a cryopreservation device capable of holding an RFID tag is provided. The cryopreservation device includes: a) an RFID unit, an elongated body, a frustoconical boss extending from a first end of the elongated body, and an elongated rod including a sample collection tip extending from the frustoconical boss; and b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frustoconical boss. The cap can enclose the sample collection tip and the frustoconical boss within the hollow chamber when removably attached to the elongated rod. The RFID unit is distal to the sample collection tip, and the RFID unit is capable of holding an RFID tag. The RFID unit includes: a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; and c) a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a cryopreservation device capable of holding an RFID tag is provided. The cryopreservation device includes: a) an RFID unit, an elongated body, a frustum-shaped boss extending from a first end of the elongated body, and an elongated rod including a sample collection tip extending from the frustum-shaped boss; and b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frustum-shaped boss. When the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the sample collection tip can be enclosed within the hollow chamber. The RFID unit is distal to the sample collection tip, and the RFID unit is capable of holding an RFID tag. The RFID unit includes: a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; and c) a locking mechanism that abuts against an outer periphery of the RFID opening. The elongated rod is made of an integrated plastic. The RFID opening is located at an end of the elongated rod. The RFID chamber includes a cylindrical chamber formed by a prismatic plastic, and the RFID tag is cylindrical. The prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit each starting from the RFID opening. The first longitudinal slit has a length of 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second longitudinal slit has a length of 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber. The first longitudinal slit crosses the RFID chamber from the second longitudinal slit. The locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the inside of the RFID opening.

[0014] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a process for vitrifying a biological sample is provided. The process includes: a) obtaining a cryopreservation device of any of the above embodiments; b) obtaining a liquid nitrogen-resistant RFID tag; c) placing the RFID tag within the RFID chamber, reading the RFID tag, and associating the RFID tag with the biological sample; e) adding a vitrification mixture to dehydrate the biological sample; f) collecting the dehydrated biological sample on the elongated rod; g) enclosing the dehydrated biological sample with a cap fixed to the elongated rod; and h) placing the cryopreservation device within liquid nitrogen.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] The present invention is illustrated and described herein with reference to various drawings in which like reference numerals represent like method steps and / or system components, respectively.

[0016]

Figure 1a

Figure 1b

Figure 1c

Figure 1d

Figure 2a

Figure 2b

Figure 2c

Figure 2d

Figure 3a

Figure 3b

Figure 3c

Figure 4a

Figure 4b

Figure 4c

Figure 5a

Figure 5b

Figure 5c

Figure 6a

Figure 6b

Figure 6c

Figure 7

Figure 8a

Figure 8b

Figure 8c

Figure 9a

Figure 9b

Figure 9c

Figure 9d

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] One embodiment of the present invention provides a cryopreservation device capable of holding a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. The cryopreservation device includes: a) an RFID unit, an elongated body, and an elongated rod including a sample collection tip; and b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip. When the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the sample collection tip can be enclosed within the hollow chamber. The RFID unit is distal to the sample collection tip, and the RFID unit is capable of holding the RFID tag.

[0018] The present invention can be more easily understood by referring to the following detailed description of the present invention related to the accompanying drawings forming a part of the present disclosure. The present invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and / or shown herein, and the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to limit the claimed invention. It should be understood that any and all patents and other publications specified herein are incorporated by reference as described herein.

[0019] Also, as used in the specification including the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include the plural, and references to a particular numerical value include at least that particular numerical value unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or "substantially" one particular value and / or to "about" or "substantially" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from one particular value and / or to another particular value. Similarly, when a value is expressed as approximate by use of the antecedent "about", it is understood that that particular value forms another embodiment.

[0020] It should be understood that a reference to one or more method steps does not exclude the presence of additional method steps before or after the steps enumerated in combination or the method steps intervening between those specifically identified. Also, the lettering of method steps or components is, unless otherwise specified, a common means for identifying distinct activities or components, and the enumerated lettering can be arranged in any order. A method step beginning with the term "optionally" may or may not occur.

[0021] As used herein, the term "and / or" means that when used in the listing of two or more items, any one of the listed items can be used by itself or any combination of two or more of the listed items can be used. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B, "and / or" C, the composition can contain A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B in combination, A and C in combination, B and C in combination, or A, B, and C in combination.

[0022] The RFID tag is not particularly limited as long as it can coexist with liquid nitrogen. In order to coexist with liquid nitrogen, the RFID tag operates as intended under both ambient conditions and the temperature of liquid nitrogen when immersed in liquid nitrogen. The RFID tag operates as intended if it can receive a query from an RFID reader and return its unique identification information. In some embodiments, the RFID tag is an item including an integrated circuit, an antenna, and a substrate. In some embodiments, the substrate includes silicon and / or carbon fiber.

[0023] In some embodiments, the cryopreservation device further includes a frustoconical boss extending from a first end of the elongated body. In some embodiments, the sample collection tip extends from the frustoconical boss. In some embodiments, when the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the sample collection tip can be enclosed within the hollow chamber. In some embodiments, when the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the sample collection tip can be hermetically enclosed within the hollow chamber.

[0024] In some embodiments, the RFID unit includes: a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed into the RFID chamber; and c) a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening.

[0025] In some embodiments, the elongated rod is made of an integrated plastic. For example, the elongated rod is made of an integrated plastic when it is injection molded with a mold that forms the RFID unit, the elongated body, the sample collection tip, and any other components of the elongated rod. In another example, the elongated rod is made of an integrated plastic when it is 3D printed.

[0026] In some embodiments, when the RFID tag is placed within the RFID chamber and the cryopreservation device is placed in liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, the RFID tag remains within the RFID chamber and there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device. In some embodiments, when the RFID tag is placed within the RFID chamber and the cryopreservation device is placed in liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, the RFID tag remains within the RFID chamber and there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device under a magnification of 10 times.

[0027] In some embodiments, the shape of the RFID chamber corresponds to the shape of the RFID tag. In some embodiments, the shape of the RFID tag is a cube, cuboid, cone, cylinder, sphere, pyramid, or prism. In some embodiments, the shape of the RFID tag is a cylinder. In some embodiments, the RFID tag has a length of 4 mm to 12 mm. In some embodiments, the RFID tag has a diameter of 0.5 mm to 4 mm, 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm, or 0.5 mm to 3 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm, or 0.05 mm to 2.2 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1.8 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1.4 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

[0028] By making the volume, width, and / or length of the RFID chamber larger than that of the RFID tag, when immersed in liquid nitrogen, a harder RFID tag can be prevented from breaking the wall of the RFID chamber, and the wall of the RFID chamber can contract. In some embodiments, the volume of the RFID chamber is 1.01 times the volume of the RFID tag. In other non-limiting examples, the volume of the RFID chamber is at least 1.02 times, or 1.03 times, or 1.04 times, or 1.05 times, or 1.1 times the volume of the RFID tag. In some embodiments, the width of the RFID chamber perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elongated rod is at least 1.01 times, or 1.02 times, or 1.03 times, or 1.04 times, or 1.05 times, or 1.1 times the corresponding width of the RFID tag. In some embodiments, the length of the RFID chamber along the longitudinal direction of the elongated rod is at least 1.01 times, or 1.02 times, or 1.03 times, or 1.04 times, or 1.05 times, or 1.1 times the length of the RFID tag.

[0029] In some embodiments, the RFID opening is located at the end of an elongated rod. In some embodiments, the RFID chamber includes a generally cylindrical chamber formed by a prismatic plastic. In some embodiments, the prism shape is cubic. In some embodiments, the prism shape is hexagonal. In some embodiments, the RFID tag is generally cylindrical, and the prism shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit each starting from the RFID opening. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit has a length that is 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second longitudinal slit has a length that is 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit is longer than the second longitudinal slit. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit crosses the RFID chamber from the second longitudinal slit.

[0030] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the RFID portion in each of the x - direction and y - direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are about 5 mm or less. In other embodiments, the dimensions of the RFID portion in each of the x - direction and y - direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are about 4.5 mm, or 4.0 mm, or 3.5 mm, or 3.1 mm, or 3.0 mm, or 2.8 mm, or 2.6 mm, or 2.4 mm or less.

[0031] In some embodiments, the RFID opening is located along the longitudinal direction of the elongated rod. The RFID portion includes a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the outer periphery of the RFID opening. In some embodiments, the length of the RFID opening is smaller than the length of the RFID tag, and the locking mechanism includes a portion of the RFID portion that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening and covers the RFID chamber. In some embodiments, the RFID tag may be mounted in the RFID chamber at an angle such that a part of the RFID tag enters a portion that extends beyond the RFID opening of the RFID chamber and pushes the remaining part of the RFID tag through the RFID opening.

[0032] In some embodiments, the length of the RFID opening is along the longitudinal axis of the elongated rod, and the length of the RFID opening is shorter than the length of the RFID chamber. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a circumferential flap that bends inwardly toward the RFID chamber. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism further includes a protrusion that is connected to the circumferential flap and protrudes above the RFID opening. In some embodiments, at least one dimension of the RFID chamber that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is 1.01% to 1.1% of the same dimension of the RFID tag.

[0033] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a cryopreservation device capable of holding an RFID tag. The cryopreservation device includes: a) an RFID unit, an elongated body, a frustoconical boss extending from a first end of the elongated body, and an elongated rod including a sample collection tip extending from the frustoconical boss; and b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frustoconical boss. When the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the sample collection tip and the frustoconical boss can be enclosed within the hollow chamber. The RFID unit is distal to the sample collection tip, and the RFID unit is capable of holding an RFID tag. The RFID unit includes: a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be disposed within the RFID chamber; and c) a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening.

[0034] It should be understood that the various embodiments of the elongated rod, RFID unit, RFID tag, RFID chamber, RFID opening, RFID locking mechanism, the construction of the elongated rod, the shape and size of the RFID tag, RFID chamber and RFID opening, the relative size of the embodiment of the RFID chamber with respect to the RFID tag, the arrangement of the RFID opening, any longitudinal slit along the wall of the RFID chamber, and the dimensions of the RFID unit in the x-direction and y-direction that are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction described in the present specification above are also applicable to this embodiment.

[0035] In some embodiments, the elongated rod is made of an integrated plastic. In some embodiments, the RFID tag is cylindrical, with a length of 6 mm to 12 mm and a diameter of 0.5 mm to 4 mm. In other non-limiting examples of the RFID tag, the diameter is 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm, or 0.5 mm to 3 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm, or 0.05 mm to 2.2 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1.8 mm.

[0036] In some embodiments, the RFID opening is located at the end of the elongated rod. In some embodiments, the RFID chamber includes a substantially cylindrical chamber formed by a prismatic plastic. In some embodiments, the prism shape is cubic. In some embodiments, the prism shape is hexagonal. In some embodiments, the RFID tag is substantially cylindrical. In some embodiments, the prism shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit each starting from the RFID opening. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the RFID opening.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit has a length that is 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second longitudinal slit has a length that is 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit is longer than the second longitudinal slit. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal slit crosses the RFID chamber from the second longitudinal slit.

[0038] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the RFID portion in each of the x-direction and y-direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are about 5 mm or less. In other embodiments, the dimensions of the RFID portion in each of the x-direction and y-direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are about 4.5 mm, or 4.0 mm, or 3.5 mm, or 3.1 mm, or 3.0 mm, or 2.8 mm, or 2.6 mm, or 2.4 mm or less.

[0039] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a cryopreservation device capable of holding an RFID tag. The cryopreservation device includes: a) an RFID unit, an elongated body, a frustum-shaped boss extending from a first end of the elongated body, and an elongated rod including a sample collection tip extending from the frustum-shaped boss; and b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frustum-shaped boss. When the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the sample collection tip and the frustum-shaped boss can be enclosed within the hollow chamber. The RFID unit is distal to the sample collection tip, and the RFID unit is capable of holding an RFID tag. The RFID unit includes: a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be disposed within the RFID chamber; and c) a locking mechanism that abuts against an outer periphery of the RFID opening. The elongated rod is made of an integrated plastic. The RFID opening is located at an end of the elongated rod. The RFID chamber includes a cylindrical chamber formed by a prismatic plastic, and the RFID tag is cylindrical. The prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit each starting from the RFID opening. The first longitudinal slit has a length of 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second longitudinal slit has a length of 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber. The first longitudinal slit crosses the RFID chamber from the second longitudinal slit. The locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the inside of the RFID opening.

[0040] It should be understood that the various aspects of the elongated rod, RFID unit, RFID tag, RFID chamber, RFID opening, RFID locking mechanism described in the present specification above, the construction of the elongated rod, the shape and size of the RFID tag, RFID chamber and RFID opening, the relative size of the aspect of the RFID chamber with respect to the RFID tag, the arrangement of the RFID opening, any longitudinal slit along the wall of the RFID chamber, and the dimensions of the RFID unit in the x-direction and y-direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are also applicable to this embodiment.

[0041] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a process for vitrifying a biological sample is provided. The process includes: a) obtaining a cryopreservation device of any of the above embodiments; b) obtaining a liquid nitrogen resistant RFID tag; c) placing the RFID tag in an RFID chamber, reading the RFID tag, and associating the RFID tag with the biological sample; e) adding a vitrification mixture to dehydrate the biological sample; f) collecting the dehydrated biological sample on an elongated rod and enclosing the dehydrated biological sample with a cap fixed to the elongated rod; h) placing the cryopreservation device in liquid nitrogen.

[0042] It should be understood that the various aspects of the elongated rod, RFID part, RFID tag, RFID chamber, RFID opening, RFID locking mechanism, the construction of the elongated rod, the shape and size of the RFID tag, RFID chamber and RFID opening, the relative size of the aspect of the RFID chamber with respect to the RFID tag, the arrangement of the RFID opening, any longitudinal slit along the wall of the RFID chamber, and the dimensions of the RFID part in the x-direction and y-direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction described in the present specification above are also applicable to this embodiment.

[0043] In some aspects, when placed in liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, there are no visible cracks in the RFID part.

[0044] The following is a non-limiting enumeration of embodiments.

[0045] (Embodiment A1) An elongated rod including an RFID part, an elongated body, and a sample collection tip, A cap having a hollow chamber with a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip, A cryopreservation device comprising: When the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the sample collection tip can be enclosed within the hollow chamber. The RFID unit is located distally to the sample collection tip, and the RFID unit is a cryopreservation device capable of holding an RFID tag.

[0046] (Embodiment A2) It further includes a frustoconical boss extending from the first end of the elongated body, the sample collection tip extends from the frustoconical boss, and when the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the sample collection tip and the frustoconical boss can be enclosed within the hollow chamber, the cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiment A1.

[0047] (Embodiment A3) The RFID unit includes a) an RFID chamber capable of holding the RFID tag, b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed into the RFID chamber, and c) a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening, the cryopreservation device according to Embodiment A1 or Embodiment A2.

[0048] (Embodiment A4) The elongated rod is made of an integrated plastic, or the elongated rod is manufactured by injection molding a polymer resin into a single mold, or the elongated rod is manufactured by 3D printing, the cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiments A1 to A3.

[0049] (Embodiment A5) When the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber and the cryopreservation device can be placed within liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, the RFID tag remains within the RFID chamber, there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device, and / or when observed at a magnification of 10 times, there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device, the cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiments A1 to A4.

[0050] (Embodiment A6) The RFID tag is cylindrical, with a length of 4 mm to 12 mm and a diameter of 0.5 mm to 4 mm, or 0.5 mm to 3 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm, or 0.5 mm to 2 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1.8 mm, and is the cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiments A1 to A5.

[0051] (Embodiment A7) The RFID opening is located at the end of the elongated rod, the RFID chamber includes a substantially cylindrical chamber formed of prismatic plastic, the RFID tag is substantially cylindrical, and the prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit each starting from the RFID opening, and is the cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiments A3 to A6.

[0052] (Embodiment A8) The first longitudinal slit has a length of 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, the second longitudinal slit has a length of 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the first longitudinal slit is longer than the second longitudinal slit, and is the cryopreservation device according to Embodiment A7.

[0053] (Embodiment A9) The first longitudinal slit crosses the RFID chamber from the second longitudinal slit, and is the cryopreservation device according to Embodiment A7 or A8.

[0054] (Embodiment A10) The locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the outer periphery of the RFID opening, and is the cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiments A3 to A9.

[0055] (Embodiment A11) The dimensions of the RFID part in the x - direction and y - direction, which are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, are about 5 mm, or 4.5 mm, or 4.0 mm, or 3.5 mm, or 3.1 mm, or 3.0 mm, or 2.8 mm, or 2.6 mm or less, and is the cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiments A1 to A10.

[0056] (Embodiment A12) The dimensions of the RFID unit in the x - direction and y - direction, each of which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, are about 2.4 mm or less. The freezing storage device according to any one of Embodiments A1 to A11.

[0057] (Embodiment A13) The length of the RFID opening is along the longitudinal axis of the elongated rod. The freezing storage device according to any one of Embodiments A3 to A6.

[0058] (Embodiment A14) The length of the RFID opening is shorter than the length of the RFID chamber. The freezing storage device according to Embodiment A13.

[0059] (Embodiment A15) The locking mechanism includes a circumferential flap that bends inward toward the RFID chamber. The freezing storage device according to Embodiment A13 or A14.

[0060] (Embodiment A16) The locking mechanism further includes a protruding portion that is connected to the circumferential flap and protrudes above the RFID opening. The freezing storage device according to Embodiment A15.

[0061] (Embodiment A17) The dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the RFID chamber is 1.01% - 1.1% of the same dimension of the RFID tag. The freezing storage device according to any one of Embodiments A13 to A17.

[0062] (Embodiment A18) The dimensions of the RFID unit in the x - direction and y - direction, each of which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, are about 3 mm or less or about 2.4 mm or less. The freezing storage device according to any one of Embodiments A13 to A17.

[0063] (Embodiment A19) The RFID tag is a cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiments A1 to A18 that can coexist with liquid nitrogen.

[0064] (Embodiment A20) A cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiments A1 to A19, including at least one circumferential notch.

[0065] (Embodiment A21) When the cap is removably attached to the elongated rod, the sample collection tip can be hermetically sealed within the hollow chamber. A cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiments A1 to A20.

[0066] (Embodiment A22) The RFID opening is located at the end of the elongated rod, and the locking mechanism includes a plug capable of closing the RFID opening. A cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiments A3 to A6, A11, A12, or A17 to A21.

[0067] (Embodiment B1) a) Obtaining a cryopreservation device according to any one of Embodiments A1 to A20; b) Obtaining an RFID tag; c) Placing the RFID tag within the RFID chamber; d) Reading the RFID tag and associating the RFID tag with a biological sample; e) Adding a vitrification mixture to dehydrate the biological sample; f) Collecting the dehydrated biological sample at the sample collection tip; g) Sealing the dehydrated biological sample by removably attaching the cap to the elongated rod; h) Placing the cryopreservation device within liquid nitrogen. A process for vitrifying a biological sample, including the above steps.

Example

[0068] Comparative Example 1, Comparative Example 2, and Example 3 were each conducted using an elongated bar of a freeze storage device injection-molded from polystyrene. Example 1 and Example 2 were conducted using a prototype of the elongated bar of the freeze storage device. The prototype was 3D printed from Digital ABS Plus (Statasys, Eden Prairie, Minnesota). The elongated bar of each device / prototype was made from a single integrated plastic. The elongated bar in each example was designed with an RFID chamber for accommodating a transponder RFID microchip tag (RFID tag), the RFID tag being cylindrical, 2 mm in diameter, 12 mm in length, and available from Shenzhen Manruta Technology Co., Ltd., Guangdong Province, China. The sample collection tip of each of the elongated bars in the comparative examples and examples was sealable by a Cryolock cap (Biotech, Inc., Alpharetta, Georgia).

[0069] (Comparative Example 1) The cryopreservation device shown in FIGS. 1a - 1d was designed and injection - molded. Referring to FIGS. 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d, the cryopreservation device 10 includes an elongated rod 12 and a cap 14. The elongated rod includes an RFID part 16, a circumferential notch 18a, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from the first end of the elongated body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from the narrow end of the boss 22. The cap 14 includes a circumferential notch 18b and an elongated hollow chamber 25 defined along the long axis of the cap 14 and sized to accommodate the sample collection tip 24 and the frustoconical boss 22. The circumferential notches 18a, 18b disposed adjacent to the end of the cap 14 and the distal end of the elongated rod 12 are for gripping the cryopreservation device 10 with pliers (not shown), making it easier to operate the cryopreservation device 10 in various temperature environments. The RFID part 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID end region 30. The RFID end region 30 is located farther from the elongated body 20 than the RFID transition region 26 along the longitudinal axis, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID end region 30 and the RFID transition region 26. The RFID chamber 28 is sized to hold an RFID tag (not shown). Thus, the RFID chamber 28 is formed in a cylindrical shape with the opening 32 being circular. FIGS. 1c and 1d are side and cross - sectional views of the cryopreservation device 10 shown in FIG. 1, showing the entire elongated rod 12 since the cap 14 has been removed.

[0070] The RFID tag was manually inserted into the RFID chamber 28 through the opening 32 under ambient conditions. The RFID tag is firmly held within the RFID chamber 28, and the chip cannot be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by vibrating the elongated rod 12. The elongated rod 12 was immersed in liquid nitrogen for about two minutes. The elongated rod 12 was inspected after being removed from the liquid nitrogen. Some visible cracks appeared in the RFID chamber 28.

[0071] (Example 1) The elongated rod 12 of the cryopreservation device shown in FIGS. 2a - 2d was designed and a prototype was manufactured using 3D printing. Referring to FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d, the elongated rod 12 includes an RFID portion 16, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongated body, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from a narrow end of the frustoconical boss 22. The RFID portion 16 includes a tapered RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID end region 30. The RFID end region 30 is located further away from the elongated body 20 than the RFID transition region 26 along the longitudinal axis, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID end region 30 and the tapered RFID transition region 26. The RFID transition region 26 is tapered because the RFID chamber 28 has a larger cross - section than the elongated body 20. The RFID chamber 28 is sized to hold an RFID tag (not shown).

[0072] The RFID tag is manually inserted into the RFID chamber 28 from the opening 32, and the opening 32 is sized such that the RFID tag can pass through and enter the RFID chamber 28. The locking mechanism 34 defines the opening 32. The locking mechanism 34 shown in FIGS. 2a and 2d ensures that an RFID tag (not shown) remains within the RFID chamber 28 throughout the processing and storage period of the elongated rod 12. The RFID tag is inserted at an angle such that a portion of the RFID tag enters a portion of the RFID chamber 28 adjacent to the RFID end region 30 beyond the RFID opening 32. As the RFID tag is pushed into the RFID chamber 28, the flaps 36a and 36b curve downward and are placed over the RFID tag when the RFID tag is fully inserted into the RFID chamber 28. As shown in FIG. 2c, the openings 37a and 37b are provided longitudinally spaced along the outer edge of the RFID chamber 28, and the opening 32 is disposed on the opposite side perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elongated rod 12. The RFID tag is firmly held within the RFID chamber 28, and the chip cannot be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by vibrating the elongated rod 12. The elongated rod 12 was immersed in liquid nitrogen. After being inserted into the liquid nitrogen for about 2 minutes and then returned to ambient conditions, no signs of cracking were observed in the RFID unit 16. The RFID unit 16 was observed at a magnification of 10 times, and still no signs of cracking were observed.

[0073] (Example 2) The elongated rod 12 of the cryopreservation device shown in FIGS. 3a - 3c was designed and the prototype was 3D printed. The elongated rod 12 includes a notch 18a, an RFID part 16, an elongated body 20, a frustum - shaped boss 22 extending from the first end of the elongated body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from the narrow end of the frustum - shaped boss 22. The RFID part 16 includes a tapered RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID end region 30. The RFID end region 30 is located farther from the elongated body 20 than the RFID transition region 26 along the longitudinal axis, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID end region 30 and the RFID transition region 26. The RFID chamber 28 is sized to hold an RFID tag. The tapered RFID transition region 26 is designed to transition from the small cross - section of the elongated body 20 to the large cross - section of the RFID part 16, and the placement sides of the elongated body 22 and the RFID part 16 can be made linear for easy processing.

[0074] The RFID tag was manually inserted into the RFID chamber 28 from the opening 32 under ambient conditions. The RFID tag was inserted at an angle such that a part of the RFID tag could enter the portion of the RFID chamber 28 adjacent to the RFID end region 30 beyond the RFID opening 32. The locking mechanism 34 includes a circular tag 39. The circular tag 39 curves downward when the RFID tag 38 is mounted in the RFID chamber 28 and is positioned above the RFID tag 38 after the RFID tag 38 is fully inserted into the RFID chamber 28. The locking mechanism 34 holds the RFID tag 38 in the RFID chamber 28. The RFID tag is firmly held in the RFID chamber 28 and the RFID tag cannot be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by vibrating the elongated rod 12. The elongated rod 12 was immersed in liquid nitrogen. When it was inserted into liquid nitrogen for about 2 minutes and then returned to ambient conditions, no signs of cracking were observed in the RFID part 16. The RFID part 16 was observed at a magnification of 10 times, and still no signs of cracking were observed.

[0075] (Comparative Example 2) The elongated rod 12 was designed and injection molded. Referring to FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c, the elongated rod includes an RFID portion 16, a circumferential notch 18a, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongated body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from a narrow end of the frustoconical boss 22. The circumferential notch 18a is located between an end distal to the sample collection tip 24 of the elongated body 20 and the RFID portion 16. The RFID portion 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID end region 30. The RFID end region 30 is located further away from the elongated body 20 than the RFID transition region 26 along the longitudinal axis, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID end region 30 and the RFID transition region 26. The RFID chamber 28 is sized to hold an RFID tag (not shown). Thus, the RFID chamber 28 is formed in a cylindrical shape with the opening 32 being circular. One of the two longitudinal slits 40a is shown in FIG. 4a, and both longitudinal slits 40a, 40b are shown in FIGS. 4b and 4c. In this comparative example, the longitudinal slits are of the same size, and each slit starts from the RFID opening 32 and removes about 90% of the length of the wall of the RFID chamber 28. FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of the elongated rod 12 shown in FIG. 4a, and FIG. 4c is a detailed cross-sectional view of the RFID portion 16 of the elongated rod 12 shown in FIG. 4a. The locking mechanism has "elbows" or ledges 42a, 42b on at least a part of the wall closest to the RFID opening 32 of the RFID chamber 28.

[0076] The RFID tag was inserted into the RFID chamber 28 from the opening 32 under ambient conditions. The RFID tag cannot be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by vibrating the elongated rod 12. However, the RFID tag is not firmly held within the RFID chamber 28, and the RFID tag can be removed from the RFID chamber 28 simply by moving the wall of the RFID chamber 28 in the outward direction. The elongated rod 12 with the RFID tag inside the RFID chamber 28 was immersed in liquid nitrogen. When it was inserted into the liquid nitrogen for about two minutes and then returned to the ambient conditions, no signs of cracking were observed in the RFID section 16. The RFID section 16 was observed at a magnification of 10 times, and still no signs of cracking were observed. In this design, only one of the two required criteria was addressed, and although the RFID section 16 did not crack, the RFID tag was not firmly held in place during the processing of the cryogenic storage device.

[0077] (Example 3) The elongated rod 12 is designed and injection molded. Referring to FIGS. 5a, 5b and 5c, the elongated rod includes an RFID portion 16, a circumferential notch 18a, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongated body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from a narrow end of the frustoconical boss 22. The circumferential notch 18a is located between an end distal to the sample collection tip 24 of the elongated body 20 and the RFID portion 16. The RFID portion 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28 and an RFID end region 30. The RFID end region 30 is located farther from the elongated body 20 than the RFID transition region 26 along the longitudinal axis, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID end region 30 and the RFID transition region 26. The RFID chamber 28 is sized to hold an RFID tag (not shown). Thus, the RFID chamber 28 is formed in a cylindrical shape with the opening 32 being circular. One of the two longitudinal slits 40a is shown in FIG. 4a, and both longitudinal slits 40a, 40b are shown in FIGS. 4b, 4c. In this embodiment, the longitudinal slits are of different sizes, where the longitudinal slit 40a removes approximately 50% of the length of the wall of the RFID chamber 28, while the longitudinal slit 40b removes approximately 90% of the length of the wall of the RFID chamber 28. FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of the elongated rod 12 shown in FIG. 4a, and FIG. 4c is a detailed cross-sectional view of the RFID portion 16 of the elongated rod 12 shown in FIG. 4a. The locking mechanism has "elbows" or ledges 42a, 42b on at least a part of the wall closest to the RFID opening 32 of the RFID chamber 28.

[0078] The RFID tag was inserted into the RFID chamber 28 from the opening 32 under ambient conditions. The RFID tag was firmly held within the RFID chamber 28, and the chip could not be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by vibrating the elongated rod 12. Different from Comparative Example 2, the RFID tag could not be removed from the RFID chamber 28 by moving the wall of the RFID chamber 28 outward. The elongated rod 12 was immersed in liquid nitrogen. When it was inserted into the liquid nitrogen for about two minutes and then returned to ambient conditions, no signs of cracking were observed in the RFID unit 16. The RFID unit 16 was observed at a magnification of 10 times, and still no signs of cracking were observed.

[0079] Figure 6a shows another embodiment of the sealed cryopreservation device 10 including the elongated rod 12, a cap 14 (not shown), and the end-mounted RFID unit 16. The elongated rod 12 includes the RFID unit 16, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from the first end of the elongated body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from the narrow end of the frustoconical boss 22. The RFID unit 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID compartment 28, and an RFID terminal region 30. The RFID plug 44 is detachable from the RFID unit 16. The RFID terminal region 30 is located further away from the elongated body 20 than the RFID transition region 26 along the longitudinal axis, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID terminal region 30 and the RFID transition region 26.

[0080] Figures 6b and 6c are detailed cross-sectional views of the RFID unit 16 of the embodiment shown in Figure 6a. Figure 6b is a cross-sectional view showing the empty RFID chamber 28 with the RFID tag 38 and the RFID plug 44 separated from the RFID unit 16. Figure 6c is a cross-sectional view showing the case where the RFID tag 38 is positioned within the RFID chamber 28 and fixed by the RFID plug 44. In this embodiment, the RFID chamber 28 is slightly larger in size than the RFID tag 38 so that the RFID tag 38 can thermally contract when the cryopreservation device is immersed in liquid nitrogen. The RFID plug 44 functions for the same purpose as the lock mechanism 34 shown in the embodiments of Figures 2a - 2d and Figures 3a - 3c. The RFID plug 44 holds the RFID tag 38 within the RFID chamber 28 throughout the processing and storage periods of the cryopreservation device by closing the RFID opening 32.

[0081] Figure 7 shows another embodiment of the cryopreservation device 10 comprising an elongated rod 12, a cap 14 (not shown), and another end-mounted RFID unit 16. The elongated rod 12 includes the RFID unit 16, a circumferential notch 18a, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from the first end of the elongated body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from the narrow end of the boss 22. The circumferential notch 18a is located between the end distal to the sample collection tip 24 of the elongated body 20 and the RFID unit 16. The RFID unit 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID end region 30 including an RFID plug 44. The RFID end region 30 is located further away from the elongated body 20 than the RFID transition region 26 along the longitudinal axis, and the RFID chamber 28 is located between the RFID end region 30 and the RFID transition region 26. In Figure 7, the RFID unit 16 is generally tapered such that the cross-section increases as it moves away from the elongated body 20.

[0082] Figures 8a and 8b show another embodiment of the cryopreservation device 10 comprising an elongated rod 12 and a cap 14 (not shown). The elongated rod 12 includes a detachable component 50, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from a first end of the elongated body, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from a narrow end of the frustoconical boss 22. The detachable component 50 includes an RFID portion 16, a notch 18a, and an RFID connection element 52. The elongated body 20 includes a mating body connection element 54. The RFID connection element 52 includes a transition region 56 and an RFID locking mechanism 58. The transition region 56 is distal to the elongated body 20, and the RFID locking mechanism 58 is positioned between the transition region 56 and the elongated body 20 when the detachable component 50 is attached to the elongated body 20. The RFID locking mechanism 58 includes a hollow chamber 60, and the hollow chamber 60 includes notches 62a and 62b leading towards an end closest to its transition region 56. The mating body connection element 54 is located on the elongated body 20 distal to the sample collection tip 24 and includes a solid object 64 and extensions 66a, 66b. The extensions 66a and 66b are positioned towards an end of the mating body connection element 54 distal to the elongated body 20. When the detachable component 50 is attached to the elongated body 20, the solid object 64 is sized to fit into the chamber 60, and the extensions 66a and 66b are sized to fit into the notches 62a and 62b.

[0083] FIG. 8c shows another locking mechanism of the RFID connection element 52 for the detachable component 50 and the adapter body connection element 54 shown in FIG. 8b. The detachable connection element 50 includes an RFID part 16 and an RFID connection element 70. The RFID connection element 70 includes a solid object 72 and extending parts 74a, 74b. The RFID transition region 26 is distal to the elongated body 20, and the solid object 72 is positioned between the RFID transition region 26 and the elongated body 20 when the detachable component 50 is attached to the elongated body 20. The extending parts 74a and 74b are positioned toward the ends of the solid object 72 that are distal to the RFID transition region 26. The adapter body locking mechanism 76 includes a hollow chamber 78 with notches 80a and 80b. When the detachable component 50 is attached to the elongated body 20, the adapter body locking mechanism 76 is sized to receive the solid object 72, and the notches 80a and 80b are sized to receive the extending parts 74a and 74b.

[0084] FIG. 9a shows another embodiment of the cryopreservation device 10 with another embodiment of the elongated rod 12, a cap 14 (not shown), and an end-mounted RFID part 16. The elongated rod 12 includes a notch 18a, an RFID part 16, an elongated body 20, a frustoconical boss 22 extending from the first end of the elongated body 20, and a sample collection tip 24 extending from the narrow end of the frustoconical boss 22. The RFID part 16 includes an RFID transition region 26, an RFID chamber 28, and an RFID end region 30.

[0085] Figures 9b, 9c, and 9d are detailed cross-sectional views of the RFID unit 16 of the embodiment shown in Figure 9a. Figure 9b is a cross-sectional view showing the RFID tag 38 located within the RFID chamber 28. The locking mechanism 34 extends throughout the RFID chamber 28, and when the RFID tag 38 is mounted in the RFID chamber 28, the locking mechanism is positioned over both ends of the RFID tag 38, so that the edges of the RFID tag 38 are not visible. Figure 9c is a top view showing the locking mechanism 34 that defines the opening 32 over the RFID chamber 28. When the RFID tag 38 is fully inserted into the RFID chamber 28, the parts 82a and 82b of the locking mechanism extend above the RFID tag 38. The parts 82a and 82b of the locking mechanism can hold the RFID tag 38 within the RFID chamber 28.

[0086] The present invention has been described and illustrated herein with reference to preferred embodiments and specific examples thereof, but it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that other embodiments and examples can perform similar functions and / or achieve similar results. All such equivalent embodiments and examples are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present invention and are encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

1. a) an elongate wand comprising an RFID portion, an elongate body and a sample collection tip; b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate said sample collection tip; A cryopreservation device comprising: the cap, when removably attached to the elongate wand, is capable of enclosing the sample collection tip within the hollow chamber; the RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip; The RFID unit a) an RFID chamber capable of holding an RFID tag; b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; c) a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening; Including, a cryopreservation device, wherein the RFID opening is located at the end of the elongated rod, the RFID chamber comprises a substantially cylindrical chamber formed of prismatic plastic, the RFID tag is substantially cylindrical, the prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit, each slit originating from the RFID opening, and the first longitudinal slit is located on the opposite side of the RFID chamber from the second longitudinal slit.

2. 2. The cryopreservation device of claim 1, further comprising a frusto-conical boss extending from a first end of the elongate body, the sample collection tip extending from the frusto-conical boss, and the cap, when removably attached to the elongate rod, is capable of enclosing the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss within the hollow chamber.

3. 10. The cryopreservation device of claim 1, wherein the elongated rod is made from a monolithic plastic.

4. 10. The cryopreservation device of claim 1, wherein when the RFID tag is placed within the RFID chamber and the cryopreservation device is placed in liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, the RFID tag remains within the RFID chamber and there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device.

5. 2. The cryopreservation device of claim 1, wherein the RFID tag has a length of 4 mm to 12 mm and a diameter of 0.5 mm to 4 mm.

6. The cryopreservation device of claim 1, wherein the first vertical slit has a length that is 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, the second vertical slit has a length that is 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the first vertical slit is longer than the second vertical slit.

7. The cryopreservation device of claim 1 , wherein the locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds a periphery of the RFID opening.

8. 2. The cryopreservation device according to claim 1, wherein the RFID unit has dimensions of approximately 3 mm or less in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

9. 2. The cryopreservation device according to claim 1, wherein the RFID unit has dimensions of approximately 2.4 mm or less in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

10. a) an elongate wand including an RFID portion, an elongate body, a frusto-conical boss extending from a first end of the elongate body, and a sample collection tip extending from the frusto-conical boss; b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss; A cryopreservation device comprising: the cap, when removably attached to the elongate wand, is capable of enclosing the sample collection tip within the hollow chamber; the RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip; the RFID unit is capable of holding an RFID tag; The dimensions of the RFID unit in each of the x-direction and y-direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are approximately 3 mm or less, The RFID unit a) an RFID chamber capable of holding the RFID tag; b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; c) a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening; Including, a cryopreservation device, wherein the RFID opening is located at the end of the elongated rod, the RFID chamber comprises a substantially cylindrical chamber formed of prismatic plastic, the RFID tag is substantially cylindrical, the prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit, each slit originating from the RFID opening, and the first longitudinal slit is located on the opposite side of the RFID chamber from the second longitudinal slit.

11. 11. The cryopreservation device of claim 10, wherein the elongated rod is made from a monolithic plastic and the RFID tag is between 6 mm and 12 mm in length and between 0.5 mm and 4 mm in diameter.

12. The cryopreservation device of claim 10 , wherein the locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the RFID opening.

13. the first vertical slit has a length of 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second vertical slit has a length of 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber; The cryopreservation device according to claim 10 , wherein the first vertical slit is longer than the second vertical slit.

14. The cryopreservation device according to claim 10 , wherein the RFID unit has dimensions of approximately 2.4 mm or less in each of the x and y directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

15. 11. The cryopreservation device of claim 10, wherein the elongated rod is made from a monolithic plastic.

16. 11. The cryopreservation device of claim 10, wherein when the RFID tag is placed within the RFID chamber and the cryopreservation device is placed in liquid nitrogen for 5 minutes, the RFID tag remains within the RFID chamber and there are no visible cracks in the cryopreservation device.

17. a) an elongate wand including an RFID portion, an elongate body, a frusto-conical boss extending from a first end of the elongate body, and a sample collection tip extending from the frusto-conical boss; b) a cap including a hollow chamber having a length sufficient to accommodate the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss; A cryopreservation device comprising: the cap, when removably attached to the elongate rod, is capable of enclosing the sample collection tip and the frusto-conical boss within the hollow chamber; the RFID portion is distal to the sample collection tip, the RFID portion being capable of holding an RFID tag, the RFID portion comprising: a) an RFID chamber capable of holding the RFID tag; b) an RFID opening through which the RFID tag can be placed within the RFID chamber; c) a locking mechanism that abuts against the outer periphery of the RFID opening; Including, the elongate rod is made from a unitary plastic; the RFID aperture is located at the distal end of the elongated rod; The RFID chamber includes a cylindrical chamber formed of a prismatic plastic, the RFID tag is cylindrical, the prismatic shape has a first longitudinal slit and a second longitudinal slit, each slit originating from the RFID opening; the first vertical slit has a length of 50% to 95% of the length of the RFID chamber, and the second vertical slit has a length of 20% to 60% of the length of the RFID chamber; The first vertical slit is longer than the second vertical slit, the first vertical slit is located on the opposite side of the RFID chamber from the second vertical slit, The cryopreservation device, wherein the locking mechanism includes a ledge that at least partially surrounds the periphery of the RFID opening.

Images