Incubator with humidity control

Abstract

A humidifier is provided that comprises a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel such that humidity can be provided on demand to a predetermined degree in an enclosed space. Preferred humidifiers comprise a sensor, a fan, and a control unit that achieve or maintain a predetermined humidity level in the enclosed space and may further include an additional bulk water reservoir for evaporation.

Description

INCUBATOR WITH HUMIDITY CONTROL

[0001] This application claims priority to our copending US Provisional patent application with the serial number 63 / 614,769, which was filed on 12 / 26 / 2023, and which is incorporated by reference herein.Field of the Invention

[0002] The field of the invention is systems and methods for a humidifier in an incubator, especially as it relates to a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel such that humidity is provided in the incubator.Background of the Invention

[0003] The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0004] All publications and patent applications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

[0005] Cell culture has been a basic concept in most laboratories since around 1885 (see e.g., New Insights into Cell Culture Technology 2017; doi: 10.5772 / 62590). Today, it is used for many purposes, including toxicity studies, monoclonal antibody production, human viral vaccine production, artificial tissue engineering, and cell and gene therapy. One of the most important tools used for cell culture is the incubator. An incubator enables reproduction of ideal conditions for cell development.

[0006] Traditionally, cell culture has been a manual process that consists of many repetitive steps, each requiring laboratory personnel to perform meticulous and often tedious manipulations to maintain desired incubation conditions. Such tasks require stringentenvironmental constraints and pose a high risk of contamination. It is imperative that all batches are produced under the same conditions to achieve reproducible experimental results.

[0007] Moreover, different cell lines require different culture conditions. For most human cells, protocols have been published using a temperature of 37°C, relative humidity (RH) of 95%, and 5% CO2 (see e.g., SLAS Technology 2003; Vol. 8, Iss. 6; doi: 10.1016 / sl 535- 5535(03)00018-2). In other studies, conditions may require higher or lower temperatures, humidity, or CO2 concentrations.

[0008] Technologies to provide precise, user-defined control of temperature and CO2 are widely available, which allows for these two variables to be easily manipulated for experimental purposes. RH, on the other hand, is not a parameter that is actively monitored and controlled in most incubators, even though the manipulation of RH can be a critical factor in cell growth. Some cell culture incubators use passive evaporation to humidify the atmosphere in an incubator. As such, humidity levels are a function of evaporation at a given temperature, and control beyond such levels is not achieved (z.e., there is no humidity “control”). In addition, the lack of control over humidity levels may also result in condensation and / or contamination of the cell cultures due to condensate at boundary between the outside and the inside of the culture vessel. This problem directly impacts research validity and reliability by negatively impacting culture growth.

[0009] To provide at least some degree of humidity control, few systems and methods are known. For example, in WO 2022 / 232094 it was discovered that a thermally conductive block, covered with a cloth, and connected to a water pump could alter the humidity level within an incubator. The pump delivers metered amounts of water to wet the cloth, which upon heating from an electrical heater alters the RH of the incubator. UV light is additionally used to sterilize water entering the block. While intriguing, the ‘094 reference did not provide a means with which to reduce the RH, such as the reabsorption of the previously expelled water molecules. In addition, the release rate from the cloth is determined by passive evaporation and may as such be slow. Moreover, the UV light is only used to irradiate the metered water to sterilize the water.

[0010] Similarly, in EP Patent Application EP 2039752, it was discovered that RH could be altered through use of a humidifier having an atomizer including a spray nozzle, and a compressed air supply line and a liquid supply line to the spray nozzle. Such system furtherincludes a humidity sensor and a control system which can at least somewhat control the humidity level to be reached. Although interesting, a mist results in a high but uncontrolled RH. A mist also may not completely evaporate, which leaves droplets of water to accumulate on surfaces and increase risk for contamination.

[0011] Thus, even though various systems and methods of humidity control are known in the art, all or almost all of them suffer from several drawbacks, particularly where high humidity levels result in condensation and where there is a lack of ability to reduce the RH of incubators through reabsorption of water molecules from the internal atmosphere. Therefore, there remains a need for improved humidity control that reduces the risk of contamination through condensation.Summary of The Invention

[0012] The inventive subject matter is directed to systems and methods for reaching or maintaining a predetermined humidity in an enclosed space through use of a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel.

[0013] In one aspect of the inventive subject matter, the inventor contemplates an incubator with humidity control that includes a housing that at least partially encloses an internal container, wherein the internal container has an opening, and a humidifier fluidly coupled to the internal container and comprising a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel.

[0014] Similarly, the inventor also contemplates an incubator with humidity control that includes a housing that at least partially encloses an internal container, wherein the internal container has an opening, a primary air flow control device coupled to the housing and / or internal container and positioned relative to the internal container to direct a primary air veil along or substantially parallel to a hypothetical plane covering the opening, a recirculation space between the internal container and the housing, wherein the air flow from the primary air flow control device directs the air at least partially into the recirculation space that begins at the distal end of the primary air veil, a humidifier disposed within the recirculation space and comprising a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel, and a secondary air flow controldevice coupled to the housing and / or internal container and positioned relative to the internal container to direct a secondary air veil substantially parallel to the primary air veil.

[0015] Preferably, the incubator includes a primary and / or secondary suction fan, wherein the primary suction fan is positioned to receive air from the primary air veil, and wherein the secondary suction fan is positioned to receive air from the secondary air veil. Additionally, the primary air flow control device is configured to receive ambient air from the recirculation space and wherein the primary suction fan expels the primary air veil to the recirculation space. Most typically, but not necessarily, the recirculation space fluidly couples the primary suction fan to the primary air flow control device.

[0016] In a further aspect of the inventive subject matter, the inventor also contemplates a humidifier that includes a housing at least partially enclosing a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel, a sensor configured to receive a signal corresponding to a humidity level in an enclosed space, a fan configured to disperse the expelled water into the enclosed space, and a control unit informationally coupled to the sensor, the light source, and / or the fan, wherein the control unit is programmable to generate or maintain a predetermined humidity level in the enclosed space.

[0017] In some embodiments, the housing comprises a shape selected from the group consisting of a plane, a rectangle, a cone, a cylinder, and a sphere. Additionally, the housing comprises a material selected from the group consisting of a metal alloy, a polymer, a glass, and a ceramic.

[0018] Viewed from an additional perspective, the inventor contemplates a method of controlling humidity of an incubator that includes placing a humidifier into an internal container, wherein the humidifier comprises a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel, measuring a humidity level in the internal container, and using the light source to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel until a predetermined humidity level in the internal container is achieved. Preferably, but not necessarily, measuring the humidity level comprises a sensor, a fan, and a control unit.

[0019] In another perspective of the inventive subject matter, the inventor further contemplates a method of controlling humidity of an incubator, with the incubator having a housing that atleast partially encloses an internal container that has an opening, and wherein the housing and the internal container define a recirculation space therebetween, and wherein the recirculation space and the internal container are fluidly coupled to each other. Most typically, the method includes placing a water-containing hydrogel into the recirculation space, using a light source to irradiate the water-containing hydrogel for a time and with an intensity effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel into the recirculation space, circulating air through the recirculation space and the internal container while the water-containing hydrogel is being irradiated, measuring a humidity level in the internal container, and upon reaching a predetermined humidity level in the internal container, discontinuing irradiating the watercontaining hydrogel.

[0020] In some embodiments, for contemplated systems and methods herein, where applicable, the housing encloses at least 75% of the internal container; wherein the internal container has a volume of between 10 and 400 L. Where desired, the primary air flow control device recirculates at least 75% of all air in the primary air veil through the recirculation space and / or the primary air flow control device recirculates at least 90% of all air in the primary air veil through the recirculation space.

[0021] Most typically, for contemplated systems and methods herein, where applicable, the recirculation space is entirely formed between the internal container and the housing. In still further contemplated embodiments, the recirculation space at least partially encloses a plurality of sensors selected from the group consisting of a CO2 sensor, an O2 sensor, a humidity sensor, a humidifier, an atmospheric pressure sensor, and temperature sensor, and further at least partially encloses a sterilization unit, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEP A) filter, an activated charcoal filter, and / or a heater.

[0022] Where desired, for contemplated systems and methods herein, the primary air veil and / or the secondary air veil is a directional veil or a laminar flow veil. Preferably, the primary air flow control device further comprises a movable vane that controls a direction of the primary air veil. Additionally, the primary and / or secondary air veil has an airflow between about 0.3 to 0.6 m / s.

[0023] In some embodiments, for contemplated systems and methods herein, where applicable, the incubator further includes a control unit having a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unitto: a) down-regulate the primary air flow control device and optionally cause movement of a vane coupled to the primary air flow control device upon the door moving into a closed position; b) up-regulate the primary air flow control device and optional secondary air flow control device upon the door moving into an open position; and / or c) cause movement of a vane coupled to the primary air flow control device when the door is in the open position. Consequently, the incubator includes a door coupled to the housing, wherein the door, when in a closed position, is positioned in an area otherwise occupied by the secondary air veil.

[0024] Additionally, for contemplated systems and methods herein, where applicable, the control unit may be further electronically coupled to a temperature sensor, a gas sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, and / or a humidity sensor, and wherein the instructions cause the control unit to activate a heater, open a gas valve to allow entry of a gas into the incubator, and / or activate the humidifier.

[0025] It is further generally contemplated, for contemplated systems and methods herein, where applicable, that the control unit is additionally electronically coupled to an access control device that is programmed to receive a user command and / or validate an authorized user of the incubator, and wherein the instructions cause the control unit to move the door from the closed to the open position upon receiving the user command and / or validation of the authorized user. Among other options, the user command is a voice command or user gesture, and / or wherein the authorized user is validated by face recognition.

[0026] In addition, for all contemplated systems and methods herein, the humidifier comprises at least two water-containing hydrogels. Nonetheless, at least one water-containing hydrogels comprises a water content of at least 70 wt% of the overall hydrogel wt%.

[0027] Most typically, but not necessarily, for all contemplated systems and methods herein, the humidifier includes a sensor configured to receive a signal corresponding to a humidity level in the internal container. Where desired, the humidifier may further comprise a fan configured to disperse the expelled water into the internal container. Additionally, the humidifier is configured to allow replacement of the water-containing hydrogel upon depletion.

[0028] In further embodiments, for all contemplated systems and methods herein, the watercontaining hydrogel comprises a porous synthetic material selected from the group consisting of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a polypyrrole (PPy), a polyethylene glycol (PEG), a polyethylene oxide (PEO), a polycaprolactone, a poly vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), and a poly lactic acid (PLA).Alternatively, or additionally, the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous natural material selected from the group consisting of a gelatin, a polysaccharide, a starch, a alginate, a agarose, a collagen, a fibrin, a chitosan, a pectin, a heparin, a hyaluronic acid, a carrageenan, a cellulose, a lignin, a polyanhydride, a poly sebacic acid, and a polyphosphazene. Preferably, the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous natural material that has a structure that is crosslinked, grafted with monomers, or blended with synthetic polymers. Among other options, the humidifier includes at least two distinct water-containing hydrogels sourced from a porous synthetic material, a porous natural material, and / or both.

[0029] Among other uses, for all contemplated systems and methods herein, the light source emits light having a peak at a wavelength of about 520 nm. In some embodiments, the light source comprises a laser, a LED, or a UV light. Furthermore, the humidifier may include at least two distinct light sources.

[0030] Preferably, for all contemplated systems and methods herein, the humidifier further includes a control unit having a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to a) down-regulate the light source to reduce or cease irradiation of the hydrogel and / or b) up-regulate the light source to commence or increase irradiation of the hydrogel. In essence, the instructions cause the control unit to irradiate the hydrogel in increments to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel. Most typically, the control unit is programmable to control the light source in an amount effective to reach or maintain a predetermined relative humidity in the internal container.

[0031] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.Brief Description of The Drawing

[0032] FIG.l depicts an exemplary view of an incubator with a humidifier fluidly coupled to an internal container.

[0033] FIG.2 depicts an exemplary view of an incubator with recirculation space showing selected components.

[0034] FIG.3 depicts an exemplary view of a humidifier with a hydrogel, a light source, and additional selected components.Detailed Description

[0035] The inventors have discovered various systems and methods of reaching or maintaining a predetermined humidity in a cell culture incubator through use of a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the watercontaining hydrogel. Although some alternative methods of humidity control are known in the art, all or almost all of them suffer from several drawbacks, particularly where an inflow of high humidity air result in condensation and / or where there is a lack of ability to reduce the relative humidity (RH) of incubators through reabsorption of water molecules from the internal atmosphere. Moreover, the humidity level in most, if not all heretofore known incubators with a water reservoir for humidification will invariably approach saturation and cannot be continuously maintained at sub -saturation levels.

[0036] In a more general aspect of the inventive subject matter, the inventors contemplate an incubator 100 that has a housing that at least partially encloses an internal container, as is depicted in FIG.l. The internal container is generally sized and dimensioned to accommodate cell or tissue culture containers, and the internal container has an opening through which cell or tissue culture containers can be placed into or removed from the internal container. Most typically, a door is coupled to the housing and / or the internal container and movable between an open (first) position that allows access to the internal container from the outside of the incubator and a closed (second) position that prevents access to the internal container from the outside. Where desired, the housing and / or doors may also include EMI shielding to prevent interference of electromagnetic radiation with the incubator, associated equipment, and / or cells or tissues in the incubator. For humidity control, the humidifier 110 comprises a hydrogel, a light source, a sensor, a fan, and / or a control unit may be placed into the internal container. Where desired, a second humidifier (not shown) may be included that comprises a bulk water reservoir for evaporation. In such and other configurations, it should be appreciated that the second humidifier may be used for rapid humidification (e.g., at start-up or after door opening) to achieve a fast rate of humidity increase towards a target humidity value and that the watercontaining hydrogen humidifier may be used to then supplement or ‘top off the initial humidity level with a significantly more fine-grained control. Thus, overshooting humidity levels usingevaporation from a bulk water source as is otherwise typically encountered can be avoided while maintaining the benefits of relatively fast adjustment of humidity.

[0037] It is contemplated and preferred that the enclosed space comprises an internal container that is at least 10%, or at least 25%, or at least 50%, or at least 75%, or at least 100% enclosed by a housing.

[0038] As will be readily appreciated, the housing may have a large variety of shapes, and contemplated incubators comprise a shape of a plane, or a rectangle, or a cone, or a cylinder, or a sphere. Where desired, the housing comprises a material that is a metal, a metal alloy, or a polymer, or a glass, or a ceramic.

[0039] As will be readily appreciated, the size, dimensions, and volume of the internal container may vary considerably, and the particular use will at least in part determine these dimensional parameters. Most typically, the internal container will be sized and dimensioned in accordance with currently known cell and tissue culture incubators. Thus, the volume of the internal container may vary depending on specific demands and will typically be between 10- 30 L, or between 30-50L, or between 50-150L, or between 100-200L, or between 150-300L, and even larger. Most typically, the incubators presented herein will be used as cell or tissue culture incubator, but in other embodiments, the devices presented herein can also be configured as an incubator shaker, refrigerator, freezer, workbench, gloveless glovebox, etc. Thus, suitable volumes will be at least 10L, or at least 20L, or at least 50L, or at least 100L, or at least 150L, or at least 200L, or even more. In many embodiments the volume of the internal container will be between 10-100, or between 100-200 liter, or between 200-400 liter, or between 400-1,000 liter, or between 1,000-5,000 liters, and in some cases even higher.

[0040] FIG. 2 depicts a schematic view of an exemplary configuration of an incubator with a closed door 210. As will be appreciated, environmental control of the atmosphere in the internal container of the incubator 200, is maintained by recirculation of air through the primary air flow control device 370 through the recirculation space 250 that is formed between the housing 340 and the internal container 240. As can be seen from FIG. 2, the recirculation space includes an O2 and CO2 sensor 350 and 360, a heater 300, gas inlets 310, filters 320 (activated charcoal), 330 HEP A, and a sterilization unit 390. The recirculation space further includes a humidifier 280, a humidity sensor 270, and a fan 260 that are all electronically coupled to control the humidity of the internal container. The primary air veil is formed between the primary air flowcontrol device 370 and the primary suction fan 230, and the air veil geometry and direction may be controlled by movable vanes. Moreover, it should be noted that the vanes may be moved such that at least some portion of the air of the air veil will be directed into the internal container before recirculation via the primary suction fan. In this exemplary configuration, where the door is in a closed position, the air veil may be throttled down (e.g., between 50- 90% of air volume flow, or between 20-50% of air volume flow, or between 10-20% of air volume flow) relative to a time where the door is opened, and the air veil may only temporarily operate where desired. The secondary air flow control device 380 and secondary suction fan 220 are turned off in this example. In another exemplary configuration, when the door 210 is open, the secondary air flow control device 380 and secondary suction fan 220 are turned on to form a secondary air veil. Depending on the set points for the atmospheric parameters, it should be noted that the sensors will provide signals to the control unit 290 to so activate the heater, the gas inlet(s), the humidifier, the fan, and other devices to maintain the atmospheric parameters at the desired levels. Here, it should be especially recognized that all measurements can be performed in real time, that all corrective activities can be implemented in real time, and that the recirculation of the air through the veil and recirculation space will allow for rapid equilibration of the atmospheric parameters.

[0041] The primary air flow control device is coupled to the housing and / or the internal container that directs a primary air veil along or parallel to a hypothetical plane covering the opening. In this context, it should be noted that the phrase “along or parallel to a hypothetical plane covering the opening” is intended to express that the air veil will extend across substantially all of the opening (e.g., at least 85% or at least 90% or at least 95% of the opening). Likewise, where the air veil is substantially parallel to the hypothetical plane, the angle between the hypothetical plane and the air veil will be less than 30 degrees, or less than 20 degrees, and less than 15 degrees, or less than 10 degrees. Consequently, the air veil may be placed in front of the opening, behind the opening, and / or within the opening. Moreover, it should be recognized that the air veil need not be a sheet-like structure having uniform thickness but may also be configured as an air veil that has a thinner portion on one end and a wide portion on the other end. Moreover, and as is described in more detail below, the air veil may also be a composite veil from multiple individual veil portions that act in concert as a single veil.

[0042] The secondary air flow control device is coupled to the housing and / or the internal container and directs a secondary air veil substantially parallel to the primary air veil. Oncemore, it should be noted that the phrase “secondary air veil substantially parallel to the primary air veil” is intended to express that the two air veils do not intersect, have a distance between them, and may therefore be at an angle relative to each other (less than 30 degrees, or less than 20 degrees, and less than 15 degrees, or less than 10 degrees). Typically, the second air veil will be of uniform thickness, but it is also contemplated that the second air veil may be thinner on one end and thicker on another end.

[0043] In still further contemplated aspects, it should be recognized that the primary and secondary air veils are both preferably oriented in a top-down flow direction or have a flow in the same direction (e.g., both side-to-side). However, in less preferred aspects, the air veils need not be directed in the same orientation. Regardless of the orientation, it is typically preferred that the air veils are generated by primary and / or secondary air flow control devices, and most preferably by tangential fans, air jets, and / or regular fans. As needed or desired, the airflow may be further directed through one or more devices (e.g., honeycomb structure, cylindrical structures that may or may not constrict, multiple blades or vanes, etc.) to assist in non-turbulent (directional or laminar) air flow. While not limiting to the inventive subject matter, it is further contemplated that the primary and / or secondary air flow control devices will be assisted by primary and / or secondary suction fans to help stabilize the air veils. Accordingly, in preferred aspects of the inventive subject matter, the primary suction fan will be positioned to receive air from the primary air veil, and the secondary suction fan will be positioned to receive air from the secondary air veil. In further preferred aspects, the primary air veil and / or the secondary air veil may therefore be directional veils and / or a laminar flow veils. In yet further contemplated devices, the air veils may also be formed by counterrotating fans producing a directional non-laminar flow.

[0044] As noted earlier, it is generally preferred that a substantial portion of the air in the primary air veil is recirculated through the incubator. While possible, such recirculation is typically not implemented (or even necessary) for the secondary air veil. Accordingly, the air for the secondary air veil may be drawn from a location outside of the incubator and may be vented via the secondary suction fan to another location outside of the incubator. In at least that sense, first and second air veils and primary and / or secondary air flow control devices will / can be operated independently. In addition, it is generally contemplated that at least the primary air flow control device will include a mechanism (e.g., a movable vane) that provides control over the direction and / or geometry of the primary air veil. As will be discussed in more detail below,such control is particularly advantageous where a portion of the primary air veil is directed into the internal container to rapidly adjust one or more atmospheric parameters (e.g., temperature, gas concentration, humidity, etc.) in the internal container.

[0045] In some embodiments, the recirculation space is adjacent to at least 25%, or at least 50%, or at least 75% of the internal container, wherein the air flow from the primary air flow control device directs the air at least partially into the recirculation space that begins at the distal end of the primary air veil. Most typically, however, the entire recirculation space is formed between the inner container and the housing.

[0046] Moreover, it should be appreciated that recirculation of the air from the primary air veil though a recirculation space will allow for rapid adjustment of one or more parameters of the recirculating air (e.g., gas composition, temperature, humidity, etc.), and with that environmental control within the incubator. Most typically, the recirculation space will be formed by a space between the housing and the internal container that will most typically include several additional devices and / or sensors for control and / or adjustment of the one or more parameters of the recirculating air. For example, a filter unit (e.g., HEP A filter), an absorber unit (e.g. activated charcoal filter), a sterilization unit (e.g. UV based sterilization unit), a temperature control unit (e.g. heater), a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, and / or a gas sensor (e.g. O2 and / or CO2 sensor) may be disposed within the recirculation space. Moreover, one or more gas inlets may be provided to the recirculation space through which gas(es) from an external source can be fed to the air in the recirculation space. However, the recirculation space may also be configured as a separate space / volume that is fluidly coupled to the internal container through the primary air flow control device. In some embodiments, the recirculation space is formed between the internal container and the housing.

[0047] It is contemplated and preferred that the primary air flow control device recirculates at least 10%, or at least 25%, or at least 50%, or at least 75%, or at least 100% of all air from the primary air veil through the recirculation space.

[0048] With respect to suitable doors, it is contemplated that any door that can at least temporarily close the opening is deemed suitable for use herein, and contemplated doors can provide access to the internal container by a rotating / pivoting motion (e.g., around a hinge), vertical or horizontal translating motion (e.g., using telescoping gear), or a compound motion(e.g., using trammel or compound pivot). However, it is generally preferred that the door is coupled to the housing and / or the internal container in a manner such that the door moves the door (first) away and (then) in an upward motion from the opening. Such manner of opening will advantageously reduce the severity of air motion forcing air from the inside of the incubator to the outside and / or the amount of turbulent air between the door and the inside of the incubator chamber. For example, the door will preferably be movable in a non-pivoting motion (not on a hinge or other pivoting mechanism extending along one edge of the door), typically in a first movement along a Y-axis (towards or away from the internal container) and a second movement parallel to a hypothetical plane extending across the opening (X- or Z- axis). Such movements are preferably sequential or may be performed in a single compound motion. Alternatively, the door may also be rotated about an axis that is near, at, or outside the perimeter of the door (typically after first moving the rotating door away from the opening). In further embodiments, the door may also be configured as a flexible or segmented cover with each segment coupled to the next via a flexible connector or film (thus being similar to a segmented garage door). Such flexible or segmented door can be moved in a sliding motion substantially parallel to the opening and towards a top or side wall of the internal container or housing.

[0049] In addition, it should be noted that the door may also use a use magnetic (or mechanic) door seal to accommodate pressure differences between the inside and outside of the incubator. Where desired, it is further contemplated that the door may include a safety mechanism that is designed to prevent closing onto a shelf or an operator, and suitable safety mechanisms may be based on torque increase, optical sensors, and / or proximity sensors, all of which are well known in the art. Notably, it should be appreciated that contemplated incubators need not have a door at all so that the so modified incubators can be used as a glove box, a (biosafety level 2+) cell or tissue culture bench, as a fume hood, etc. Thus, it should be appreciated that the opening of the internal container is shielded by dual air curtains / veils. Advantageously, such shielding significantly reduces, or even entirely avoids contamination avoided due to a lack of contaminated air pushing or being sucked into the internal container as is common with heretofore known incubators. Viewed from a different perspective, the air veil(s) act as a virtual air-lock that prevents contamination while preserving the environment of the internal container.

[0050] It should further be appreciated that the air flow in the primary air veil may be variable and regulated upon demand by specific operating modes. For example, where the door isclosed, air flow may be lower than when the door is open. On the other hand, where new operating conditions are set, air flow may be increased relative to steady-state operation. Likewise, the air flow in the secondary air veil may be variable and adjusted to specific circumstances. For example, when the door is closed, no air flow may be present. Upon opening the door, airflow may be increased to the same or similar air flow as the primary air veil. On the other hand, where a hand or arm of an individual entering the opening is detected air flow in the secondary air veil may be increased to a flow rate above that of the primary air veil.

[0051] Most typically, but not necessarily, a desirable airflow of an air veil is in the region of 0.3 meters per second up to 0.6 meters per second, leading to laminar flow or near-laminar flow. Faster air velocities were more prone to turbulent transitional regions (which decrease overall containment efficiency by causing more mixing in the air boundary), and slower air velocities were more likely subject to the effect of external interference such as fast-moving air currents (e.g. a room fan or people walking by) in the proximity of the air veils. Nevertheless, alternative airflow of the air veil may also be in the region of 0.05-0.1, or 0.1- 0.2, or 0.2-0.3 meters per second or in the region of 0.6-0.7, or 0.7-0.8, or 0.8-0.9, or 0.9-1.0 meters per second, and even higher. In some embodiments, the primary and / or the secondary air veils are directional veils.

[0052] In various embodiments, the inside (primary) air veil draws air from the recirculation space and exhausts it through shaped ducts, again forming a laminar sheet of air across the opening, that is bound on one side by the laminar sheet generated by the outside air veil and by the internal container on the other side. At the end of the airpath is an opening which leads back into the recirculation space with its associated filtering and conditioning technologies via a bottom (suction) fan. It should be appreciated, however, that it is not strictly necessary to implement an external air veil, but its lack would likely result in more air exchange (due to a less than ideal airflow profile) that could be compensated for.

[0053] In further aspects during normal operation, contemplated incubators may minimize air currents in the internal container (similar to the eye of a hurricane). However, it should be recognized that there are occasions when rapid air exchange is desired, for example when the incubator is started for the first time. In such cases, the air current can be steered or shaped inside the internal container, either by using differential air velocities between the two veil units or by simply using movable vanes / nozzles to vector the air directly into the internal container.

[0054] As will be readily appreciated, the operation of contemplated incubators will preferably be controlled via a pre-programmed and / or programmable control circuit that will typically also be configured to informationally communicate with various external devices (e.g., smart phones, tablets, network nodes or access points, etc.). In typical aspects, the control circuit will be electronically coupled at least to the door, the primary air flow control device, and / or the secondary air flow control device, and most typically also to a temperature sensor, a gas sensor (e.g., O2 sensor or a CO2 sensor), an atmospheric pressure sensor, and / or a humidity sensor, and wherein the control circuit is programmed to activate a heater, open a gas valve to allow entry of a gas into the incubator, and / or activate a humidifier as is described in more detail below. Still further, it should be appreciated that the control circuit may be electronically coupled to an access control device that is programmed to receive a user command (e.g., voice command) and / or validate (e.g., via image recognition) an authorized user of the incubator, and that the control circuit will open and / or close the door upon receiving the user command and / or validation of the authorized user.

[0055] For example, the control unit may down-regulate the primary air flow control device and optionally cause movement of a vane coupled to the primary air flow control device upon the door moving into a closed position. In other embodiments, the control unit may up-regulate the primary air flow control device and optional secondary air flow control device upon the door moving into an open position. Most typically, but not necessarily, the control unit causes movement of a vane that is coupled to the primary air flow control device when the door is in the open position.

[0056] In some embodiments, suitable sensors include CO2 and O2 gas sensors (note that the N2 concentration can be derived from sensed CO2 and O2 concentrations), temperature sensors, humidity sensors, and air pressure sensors. In preferred embodiments, sensors for each environmental parameter are present in triplicate to avoid "split-brain" sensing errors, and the sensors can be placed in strategic locations in the airpath to allow faster response and more precise control. It should further be appreciated that sensors used in contemplated incubators can be divided into nominal "fast" and "precision" categories. The fast sensors achieve reasonably accurate real-time results (generally under a second), while precision sensors may take up to 15 seconds to settle but provide a "calibration" level of accuracy. An example of fast sensors are thermocouples which can be commonly sourced with typical accuracies ranging from 0.5 °C to 5 °C (depending on model) and with a typical response time within a tenth of asecond. Examples of precision sensors are Platinum RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) sensors, which are generally available with accuracies from 0.1 °C to 1 °C and with settling times ranging from 1 to 30 seconds.

[0057] In normal stable closed loop operation, the precision sensors are used to maintain very precise control of the operating environment. When environment perturbations are detected (e.g., the door is opened), the incubator uses the fast sensors to rapidly access and correct for any detected deviations. Once deviations settle, the incubator reverts back to the precise sensors for control. For example, temperature control can be provided by a thermoelectric module located on the rear of the recirculation space that can provide heating (and moderate cooling, if the ambient is above 37 deg C) capabilities. Oxygen / Nitrogen control can be provided by either a nitrogen tank as is well known in the art plus filtered compressed air or via a specialty mixed gas generator. CO2 is generally provided from a gas tank as is well known in the art. For humidity control, it is contemplated that the unit can use technologies ranging from the well- known traditional heated pan to dedicated humidity control technologies such as molecular sieve adsorption for humidity reduction and external humidity generators for humidity increase. Optionally the unit can also control for precise air pressure, typically by feeding or bleeding gases into or from the incubator.

[0058] Regarding user commands, suitable user interfaces may be part of the control unit or separate and be electronically coupled with the user interface. Among other options, contemplated user interface features include a front facing camera for facial detection and access logging. 3D scanning technology (e.g., Intel Realsense 3D) for gesture recognition for contactless control of incubator functions, and / or voice detection for simple control. In further embodiments, the incubator will have a large front panel display for fast status check and easier navigation of options. Built-in networking units may be provided so incubators can be monitored from a PC or tablet, and alerts can be set to notify a user in case of operational or other technical issues. Where desired, cloud access may be enabled to store and / or pull known ideal / working environmental conditions for various cell lines as well as facilitate researcher collaboration.

[0059] Of course, the control unit will preferably also be electronically coupled to various sensors and effector circuits to maintain, regulate, and / or adjust one or more atmospheric parameters within the incubator. For example, the control unit may be electronically coupled to a temperature sensor, a gas sensor (e.g., O2 sensor or a CO2 sensor), an atmospheric pressuresensor, and / or a humidity sensor, and the instructions may cause the control unit to activate a heater, open a gas valve to allow entry of a gas into the incubator, and / or activate a humidifier. As will be readily appreciated, multiple redundant sensors of the same type (e.g., 3 or more) may be used to ensure continuous operation even when a single sensor fails. For example, the instructions may cause the control unit to activate the heater, to open the gas valve to allow entry of the gas into the incubator, and / or activate the humidifier when the door is being opened or is in an open position. Where desired, and as already noted above, the control unit may also be electronically coupled to an access control device that is programmed to receive a user command and / or validate an authorized user of the incubator, and wherein the instructions cause the control unit to open or close the door upon receiving the user command and / or validation of the authorized user. As will be readily appreciated, one or more functions of the control unit (e.g., door opening and closing, adjustment of operational parameters, gas flow, operation of air flow control device, and / or vane position) may also be effected by a manual, mechanical or analog control device to so provide redundancy to the system in case of a power failure or other operational downturn.

[0060] In additional aspects of the inventive subject matter, contemplated humidifiers may be fluidly coupled to the internal container either by suspension in the internal space through mechanically coupling the humidifier to a portion of the ceiling of the internal container, or by direct and / or indirect placement on the floor of the internal container. FIG.3 depicts an aerial view of an exemplary configuration in a humidifier that may be placed in an incubator. As will be appreciated, humidity control of the atmosphere in the internal container of the incubator is maintained by the components of humidifier 400 by the water molecules of hydrogel 440 being expelled by the light source 450. As can be seen from FIG.3, the humidifier includes a humidity sensor 430 that detects internal relative humidity levels and a fan 420 that evenly disperses the expelled water molecules. In this exemplary configuration, the humidity sensor will provide signals to the control unit 410 to so activate or deactivate the light source and the fan.

[0061] Most typically, the humidifier comprises a light source emitting light at a peak wavelength effective to expel water from a water-containing hydrogel, typically in the green light range at about 530 nm. Water may also be expelled from a water-containing hydrogel with a light source emitting light at a peak wavelength of at least 250 nm, or at least 300 nm, or at least 400 nm, or at least 500 nm, or at least 600 nm, or at least 700 nm. In some embodiments, the humidifier includes at least one light source consisting of a laser, or a UVlight, or a LED light. In other embodiments, the humidifier includes at least two light sources with at least one being a laser, or a UV light, or a LED light. For example, the light source may be a monochromatic light source or a polychromatic light source. Nonetheless, the light source will be configured to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel.

[0062] The humidifier comprises at least two, or at least three, or at least four water-containing hydrogels, wherein at least one water-containing hydrogel contains a water content of at least 50%, or at least 60%, or at least 70%, or at least 80%, or at least 85%, or at least 90% of the overall hydrogel weight. The humidifier may further comprise at least one, at least two, or at least three water-depleted hydrogels, wherein the water-depleted hydrogel contains a water content of less than 70%, or less than 50%, or less than 30%, or less than 10% of the overall hydrogel weight. In some embodiments, upon depletion, the hydrogel may be removed from the internal container and replaced with a new water-containing hydrogel. In other embodiments, the depleted hydrogel is configured to reabsorb water molecules from the atmosphere of the internal container as necessary. In other embodiments, the hydrogel may be operably coupled to a water source, wherein the water source may supply water to the hydrogel. Further, the inventors contemplate a water reservoir operably coupled to the internal container and / or to the hydrogel wherein the water reservoir may collect water removed from the air by the hydrogel. The inventors additionally contemplate that the water in the water reservoir, or any any water from an external source, is sterile and / or deionized.

[0063] Regardless of the interstitial water content of the hydrogel or other water sources, the hydrogel may comprise a porous synthetic material of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a polypyrrole (PPy), a polyethylene glycol (PEG), a polyethylene oxide (PEO), a polycaprolactone, a poly vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), or a poly lactic acid (PLA). In other embodiments, the hydrogel may comprise a porous natural material of a gelatin, a polysaccharide, a starch, a alginate, a agarose, a collagen, a fibrin, a chitosan, a pectin, a heparin, a hyaluronic acid, a carrageenan, a cellulose, a lignin, a polyanhydride, a poly sebacic acid, or a polyphosphazene. Where desired, the watercontaining hydrogel that is made of a porous natural material may have a structure that is crosslinked, or grafted with monomers, or blended with synthetic polymers.

[0064] Suitable polymers may include, among other examples, those synthesized in Tu, Y., et al. (2023). Plausible photomolecular effect leading to water evaporation exceeding the thermal limit. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Published October 30, 2023., which is incorporated by reference herein. In particular, Tu et al. described three types of porous PVAhydrogel samples: 1) pure PVA samples that do not include any additional absorbers, which are denoted as pure-PVA, 2) PVA samples integrated with polypyrrole (ppy) denoted as PVA- ppy, and 3) pure PVA coated on porous carbon paper, denoted as PVA-carbon. The synthesis may involve freeze-thawing or freeze-drying to form proper porous structures (Fig. 1 A and B of Tu et al., Preparation of Freeze-thawed and Free-dried Pure-PVA Samples, Preparation of Freeze-dried PVA Samples with PPy Absorber, Preparation of PVA-Carbon Sample, and Sample Characterization, and SI Appendix, Figs. SI and S2 and Notes S1-S3). The PVA hydrogel may act as a medium that retains and channels water to the surface. Its porous structure may increase the water-vapor interface area, facilitating efficient water cluster cleavage. Modifications like embedding polypyrrole (PPY) or carbon layers further enhance light absorption and energy transfer efficiency. Alternatively, other polymers discussed in Tu et al. or in the prior art may be suitable.

[0065] Most typically, but not necessarily, the humidifier will include at least two distinct water-containing hydrogels made from a porous synthetic material, a porous natural material, and / or both. As will be readily appreciated, the control unit mentioned above is also configured to down-regulate the light source to reduce or cease irradiation of the hydrogel, and / or up- regulate the light source to commence or increase irradiation of the hydrogel. The control unit is contemplated to be electronically coupled to the light source to irradiate the water-containing hydrogel in increments to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel. Preferably, the control unit is electronically coupled to a fan that is configured to evenly disperse the expelled water molecules within the internal container, and / or a sensor that is configured to detect the relative humidity of the internal container. Where desired, and as already noted above, the control unit may be programmed to control the light source in an amount effective to reach or maintain a predetermined relative humidity in the internal container.

[0066] In further embodiments of the disclosed invention, the inventors contemplate that metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) may be implemented to selectively control humidity. As discussed in Xu, W.; Yaghi, O. M. Metal-Organic Frameworks for Water Harvesting from Air, Anywhere, Anytime. ACS Central Science, 2020, 6(8), 1348-1354., which is incorporated by reference herein, MOFs such as MOF-801 and MOF-303 exhibit a step-shaped water uptake isotherm, which indicates a cooperative mechanism for water binding. These MOFs can effectively capture water at very low RH using hydrophilic sites (e.g. hydroxyl and carboxyl groups on zirconium-based SBUs) that act as “seeds” for water aggregation. Further, MOFsmay have hydrophobic regions. When MOFs are exposed to heat, the thermal energy disrupts hydrogen bonds and causes water to be released.

[0067] Therefore, and in one embodiment, the inventors contemplate an incubator with humidity control, comprising a housing that at least partially encloses an internal container, wherein the internal container has an opening; and a humidifier fluidly coupled to the internal container and comprising a MOF and a heat source providing thermal energy at a degree effective to expel water from the MOF. In a further embodiment, the MOF comprises MOF- 801, MOF-303, and / or MOF-841. In still further embodiments, the MOF comprises a plurality of different MOFs, or a plurality of the same MOF. In alternative embodiments, the MOF may be modified, wherein a modified MOF releases water in response to exposure to frequencies of light. In other embodiments, the heat source may be an electrical heater, infrared heater, heat lamp, heat pump, air compressor, or another heat source.

[0068] In still further embodiments, an MOF or plurality of MOFs may be used in conjunction with a hydrogel, cooperating to control humidity within an internal container of an incubator. For example, and in another embodiment, the MOF may absorb water while the hydrogel releases water, or the hydrogel may absorb water while the MOF releases water, and / or both may perform the same functions. The same relationships may exist between two or more MOFs, and / or between two or more hydrogels.

[0069] Because MOFs typically require heat to release water, the inventors realized potential drawbacks wherein heating the MOF may disrupt the internal temperature of the incubator. Therefore, and in another embodiment, the inventors contemplate that the MOF is isolated from the internal container, wherein any water released from the MOF is captured and transferred to the internal container via a suitable conduit, such as a thermally insulated conduit. In further embodiments, the inventors contemplate that one or more MOFs and / or hydrogels are located in a bypass stream. The bypass stream may be a secondary stream where air from the incubator is directed to be humidified or otherwise processed as desired. It is contemplated the a humidity sensor in the incubator is communicatively coupled to the bypass stream or to a mechanism which may direct air into the bypass stream. Within the bypass stream, air can be directed through a MOF and / or a hydrogel to control the humidity of the air. In addition, the MOF and / or hydrogel may be illuminated, heated, mechanical stimulated, electrically stimulated, or otherwise stimulated to release water vapor that is then directed into the internal container of the incubator. Such bypass stream may provide several advantages, such as allowing the use ofa heater to humidify air without heating the internal container or otherwise changing conditions within the incubator.

[0070] It may be appreciated that further alternative devices and methods used in the prior art suffer from several drawbacks. For example, the humidity control device of Patent Publication No. US 2024 / 0209304 Al uses a thermally conductive block, typically made of aluminum, with a water-exuding surface such as wicking material, grooves, or foam, an electrical heater to heat the block, a fan to blow gas over the block surface, humidity sensors, and a water pump controlled by a controller to supply water to the block surface. The efficiency of such device is significantly limited by the materials it requires. Wicking materials and even aluminum may degrade over time, poor thermal conductivity in certain areas of the block could result in uneven heating, the electrical heater and fan likely consume significant energy, etc. The instant invention overcomes such difficulties in part by largely eliminating the need for an electrical heater and fan, using less energy, not requiring a conductive block or the need to flow heat through a water-exuding surface, wicking materials, or even a water pump.

[0071] In addition, other humidity control devices known in the art, such as those disclosed in Patent Publication No. US 2024 / 0050299 Al, utilize permeable sheets, such as a permeable polyolefin sheet. However, such sheets may not be durable enough to withstand repeated exposure to nebulized water, risking leakage over time. Further, super absorbent polymers are especially sensitive to heat damage. Because the hydrogel of the instant invention, in some embodiments, may be induced to release water by exposure to light of certain frequencies, it avoids risks associated with changes in temperature.

[0072] Further, Patent No. US 7264649B1 (the “649 Patent”) discusses a humidity control device using a specific hydrogel which suffers from several drawbacks solved by the instantly claimed invention. The hydrogel in the 649 Patent is regenerated to release water in response to stimuli such as thermal regeneration, mechanical regeneration, or electrostatic regeneration. This is in contrast with the hydrogel of the instantly claimed invention which releases water in response to exposure to certain frequencies of light. This light-induced evaporation of water is crucial to the functionalities of the instant invention, especially because the inventors contemplate various embodiments of incubators. In incubators, and especially in controlled atmosphere incubators, factors like temperature within the internal container must typically be maintained with precision to provide desirable conditions for microbes, experimental conditions for observation, etc. Even slight fluctuations in temperature can disrupt desirableconditions within the incubator. The devices and methods of the 649 Patent typically require heating of the hydrogel to induce evaporation, which introduces constant disruptions to the temperature within the incubator. Therefore, the inventors have contemplated light-induced evaporation in the hydrogel, wherein a particular frequency of light itself can destroy the bonds of the polymers of the hydrogel and allow evaporation without changing the temperature within the incubator.

[0073] In addition to preventing disruptions to the internal container of the incubator, the instant claims also offer advantages over the 649 patent by allowing evaporation rates exceeding the thermal evaporation limit, even in hydrogels without additional absorbers. For example, applying the instant claims, one can leverage the interaction between visible- spectrum photons and water clusters at the water-vapor interface. Phoitons in the visible spectrum, particularly at the wavelength of roughly 520 nm, have sufficient energy to break the intermolecular bonds such as hydrogen bonds holding water molecules. This process, unlike with bulk water which constrains the escape of cleaved clusters, provides a water-vapor interface and internal voids in porous hydrogels that may provide pathways for water clusters to escape as vapor. Further, as liquid turns to vapor, a steep electric field gradient is created which produces a quadrupole force on the polar water molecules within clusters, pushing them away from the liquid surface. Crucially, the excess energy from the photon may then convert to kinetic energy of the cleaved water clusters, slowing them to escape as vapor without requiring heat input such as that needed in the 649 Patent. It is further contemplated that this process occurs both externally and internally within the hydrogel. Through this process, there is no need for the intense energy requirement of heating bulk liquid to its boiling point. Therefore, this process allows for exceeding the thermal evaporation limit. Such benefit is an essential benefit of the instantly claimed invention and is neither disclosed nor motivated by the 649 Patent.

[0074] Additionally, the humidity control system in the 649 Patent is used to control humidity in the interior space of a building, which requires drawing air from the outside and mixing it with recirculated air, and blowing the conditioned air stream through the hydrogel. This device is not suitable for an incubator application for several reasons. For example, the incubators and methods disclosed herein will ideally never introduce ambient, outside air into the incubator, as this would disrupt the controlled conditions within the incubator. Further, scaling down the components of the 649 Patent for use in an incubator, which may have volumes of 10-400 L,would be challenging. Additionally, the small relative size of the incubator compared to a room causes several advantages over the 649 Patent. The volume of air in the incubator is significantly smaller than the volume of a room of a building. Therefore, the instant invention requires a relatively small amount of hydrogel polymer or MOF to control the humidity of the air in the incubator. In turn, the amount of water removed by the hydrogel or MOF is also significantly smaller than that in the 649 Patent. Further, incubators have more precise humidity control requirements compared to a general building interior, and the referenced device may not be able to provide the level of precision necessary to produce desirable conditions within the interior space of an incubator.

[0075] Using the ideal gas law and the pressure of water vapor, the ratio of water vapor to air can be calculated. Absolute humidity is roughly 6.9 mL of water per 150 L of saturated air. The inventors contemplate that, in one embodiment, 7 mL / 150 L is the maximum ratio of water vapor to fully water- saturated air. However, in other embodiments, the incubator may be configured to provide air having a maximum ratio of 1-10 mL / 100 L of water vapor to circulating saturated air. In still further embodiments, the maximum ratio may exceed 7 mL / 150 L, for example 10 mL / 150 L, 15 mL / 150 L, 20 mL / 150 L, and so on. Such control over the humidity in the incubator is an advantage not seen in the 649 Patent or other prior art.

[0076] Further distinguishing the humidity control device of the 649 Patent, the instant inventors have specified details about the water content and composition of the hydrogels used. The referenced patent does not provide specific hydrogel properties or compositions. Moreover, the instant claims describe, in some embodiments, a primary air flow control device that directs a primary veil along or parallel to the opening of an internal container of an incubator, where there is a recirculation space between the internal container and the housing, where air from the primary air flow device at least partially enters. There is also a secondary air flow control device that directs a secondary air veil parallel to the primary air veil. Therefore, the instant claims describe a more complex air flow pattern, and within an incubator, using a primary and secondary air veil, a recirculation space, and the hydrogel humidifier which releases water in response to frequencies of light.

[0077] Further, it should be appreciated that air should not leave the internal container of the incubator of the instantly claimed invention unless a person opens the door and inadvertently causes air to escape. In the 649 Patent, although some air is recirculated, some portion of the air within the room must be deposited outside of the room and replaced with other air from theoutside. The instant invention is directed, in some embodiments, the a closed atmospheric system which neither expels nor receives ambient air under ideal conditions. The disclosure of International Patent Publication No. WO2021046185A1 (the “185 Application”) is also improved upon by the instant invention. In the 185 Patent, the only mention of humidity control within an incubator, found in paragraph

[0073] , states: "For humidity control, it is contemplated that the unit can use technologies ranging from the well- known traditional heated pan to dedicated humidity control technologies such as molecular sieve adsorption for humidity reduction and external humidity generators for humidity increase." Such disclosure merely incorporates methods for humidity control used in the prior art which predominantly rely on heat. Consequently, the 185 Application faces the same challenges presented by introducing heat as a prerequisite to adding humidity where the temperature of the internal container can be disrupted. Illumination using light frequencies avoids these challenges. Additionally, the instant claims utilize water absorbing / adsorbing materials such as hydrogels and / or MOFs which allow the recycling of the same water to humidify or dehumidify. This eliminates the need for external water sources and prevents potential contaminants from entering the incubator via the introduction of external water.

[0078] In addition, the 185 Application does not mention metal organic frameworks at all, nor does it provide details like providing multiple MOFs serving different or similar functions, or providing an MOF in a bypass stream, as disclosed herein. Further, the 185 Application does not provide a method of exceeding the thermal evaporation limit within the incubator. Such a technical effect is not possible using generic humidifiers as suggested in the 185 application. Further, the 185 application does not provide for an external water source or water reservoir for any purpose, let alone for the purpose of supplying / collecting water to / from a hydrogel or MOF.Aspects of the Invention

[0079] Below is a non-limiting and non-exhaustive list of various aspects of the instantly contemplated invention.1. An incubator with humidity control, comprising: a housing that at least partially encloses an internal container, wherein the internal container has an opening; anda humidifier fluidly coupled to the internal container and comprising a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel. The incubator of aspect 1, wherein the incubator further comprises a second humidifier, wherein the second humidifier comprises a bulk water reservoir for evaporation. he incubator of aspect 1, wherein the internal container has a volume of between 10 and 400 L. he incubator of aspect 1, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two water-containing hydrogels. he incubator aspect 4, wherein at least one water-containing hydrogels comprises a water content of at least 70 wt% of the overall hydrogel wt%. he incubator of aspect 1, wherein the humidifier further comprises a sensor configured to receive a signal corresponding to a humidity level in the internal container. The incubator of aspect 1, wherein the humidifier further comprises a fan configured to disperse the expelled water into the internal container. he incubator of aspect 1, wherein the humidifier is configured to allow replacement of the water-containing hydrogel upon depletion. he incubator of aspect 1, wherein the light source emits light having a peak at a wavelength of about 520 nm. The incubator of aspect 1, wherein the light source comprises a laser or a UV light. The incubator of aspect 1, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two distinct light sources. The incubator of aspect 1, further comprising a control unit having a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to: a) down-regulate the light source to reduce or cease irradiation of the hydrogel; and / or b) up-regulate the light source to commence or increase irradiation of the hydrogel.The incubator of aspect 12, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to irradiate the hydrogel in increments to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel. The incubator of aspect 12, wherein control unit is programmable to control the light source in an amount effective to reach or maintain a predetermined relative humidity in the internal container. An incubator with humidity control, comprising: a housing that at least partially encloses an internal container, wherein the internal container has an opening; a primary air flow control device coupled to the housing and / or internal container and positioned relative to the internal container to direct a primary air veil along or substantially parallel to a hypothetical plane covering the opening; a recirculation space between the internal container and the housing, wherein the air flow from the primary air flow control device directs the air at least partially into the recirculation space that begins at the distal end of the primary air veil; a humidifier disposed within the recirculation space and comprising a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel; and a secondary air flow control device coupled to the housing and / or internal container and positioned relative to the internal container to direct a secondary air veil substantially parallel to the primary air veil. The incubator of aspect 15 further comprising a primary and / or secondary suction fan, wherein the primary suction fan is positioned to receive air from the primary air veil, and wherein the secondary suction fan is positioned to receive air from the secondary air veil. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the primary air flow control device is configured to receive ambient air from the recirculation space and wherein the primary suction fan expels the primary air veil to the recirculation space. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the recirculation space fluidly couples the primary suction fan to the primary air flow control device. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the recirculation space is entirely formed between the internal container and the housing.The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the primary air flow control device recirculates at least 75% of all air in the primary air veil through the recirculation space. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the incubator further comprises a second humidifier, wherein the second humidifier comprises a bulk water reservoir for evaporation. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the recirculation space at least partially encloses a plurality of sensors selected from the group consisting of a CO2 sensor, an O2 sensor, a humidity sensor, a humidifier, an atmospheric pressure sensor, and temperature sensor, and further at least partially encloses a sterilization unit, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEP A) filter, an activated charcoal filter, and / or a heater. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the primary air veil and / or the secondary air veil is a directional veil or a laminar flow veil. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the primary air flow control device further comprises a movable vane that controls a direction of the primary air veil. The incubator of aspect 15 further comprising a control unit having a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to: a) down-regulate the primary air flow control device and optionally cause movement of a vane coupled to the primary air flow control device upon the door moving into a closed position; b) up-regulate the primary air flow control device and optional secondary air flow control device upon the door moving into an open position; and / or c) cause movement of a vane coupled to the primary air flow control device when the door is in the open position. The incubator of aspect 25, wherein the control unit is further electronically coupled to a temperature sensor, a gas sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, and / or a humidity sensor, and wherein the instructions cause the control unit to activate a heater, open a gas valve to allow entry of a gas into the incubator, and / or activate the humidifier. The incubator of aspect 25, wherein the control unit is further electronically coupled to an access control device that is programmed to receive a user command and / or validate anauthorized user of the incubator, and wherein the instructions cause the control unit to move the door from the closed to the open position upon receiving the user command and / or validation of the authorized user. The incubator of aspect 27, wherein the user command is a voice command or user gesture, and / or wherein the authorized user is validated by face recognition. The incubator of aspect 15, further comprising a door coupled to the housing, wherein the door, when in a closed position, is positioned in an area otherwise occupied by the secondary air veil. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the primary and / or secondary air veil has an airflow between about 0.3 to 0.6 m / s. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the internal container has a volume of between 10 and 400 L. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two water-containing hydrogels. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the humidifier is configured to allow replacement of the water-containing hydrogel upon depletion. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the water-containing hydrogel contains a water content of at least 70 wt% of the overall hydrogel wt%. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the light source emits light having a peak at a wavelength of about 520 nm. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the light source comprises a laser or UV light. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two distinct light sources. The incubator of aspect 25, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to irradiate the hydrogel in increments to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel.The incubator of aspect 25 or aspect 38 further comprising a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to: a) down-regulate the light source to reduce or cease irradiation of the hydrogel; and / or b) up-regulate the light source to commence or increase irradiation of the hydrogel. The incubator of aspect 15, wherein the control unit is programmable to control the light source in an amount effective to reach or maintain a predetermined relative humidity in the internal container. A humidifier, comprising: a housing at least partially enclosing a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel; a sensor configured to receive a signal corresponding to a humidity level in an enclosed space; a fan configured to disperse the expelled water into the enclosed space; and a control unit informationally coupled to the sensor, the light source, and / or the fan, wherein the control unit is programmable to generate or maintain a predetermined humidity level in the enclosed space. The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the humidifier further comprises a bulk water reservoir for evaporation. The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the housing comprises a material selected from the group consisting of a metal alloy, a polymer, a glass, and a ceramic. The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the humidifier comprises a second water-containing hydrogel. The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the humidifier is configured to allow replacement of the water-containing hydrogel upon depletion. The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the water-containing hydrogel contains an interstitial water content of at least 70 wt% of the overall hydrogel wt%.The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous synthetic material selected from the group consisting of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a polypyrrole (PPy), a polyethylene glycol (PEG), a polyethylene oxide (PEO), a polycaprolactone, a poly vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), and a poly lactic acid (PLA). The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous natural material selected from the group consisting of a gelatin, a polysaccharide, a starch, a alginate, a agarose, a collagen, a fibrin, a chitosan, a pectin, a heparin, a hyaluronic acid, a carrageenan, a cellulose, a lignin, a polyanhydride, a poly sebacic acid, and a polyphosphazene. The humidifier of aspect 46, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprising a porous natural material that has a structure that is crosslinked, grafted with monomers, or blended with synthetic polymers. The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two distinct watercontaining hydrogels sourced from a porous synthetic material, a porous natural material, and / or both. The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the light source emits light having a peak at a wavelength of about 520 nm. The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the light source comprises a laser, a LED, or a UV light. The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two distinct light sources. The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein the control unit has a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to: a) down-regulate the light source to reduce or cease irradiation of the hydrogel; and / or b) up-regulate the light source to commence or increase irradiation of the hydrogel. The humidifier of aspect 41, wherein control unit is programmable to control the light source in an amount effective to reach or maintain a predetermined relative humidity in the internal container.The humidifier of aspect 52, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to irradiate the hydrogel in increments to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel. A method of controlling humidity of an incubator, comprising: placing a humidifier into an internal container; wherein the humidifier comprises a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel; measuring a humidity level in the internal container, and using the light source to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel until a predetermined humidity level in the internal container is achieved. The method of aspect 55, wherein the incubator further comprises a second humidifier, wherein the second humidifier comprises a bulk water reservoir for evaporation. The method of aspect 55, wherein the humidifier is configured to allow replacement of the water-containing hydrogel upon depletion. The method of aspect 55, wherein the water-containing hydrogel contains an interstitial water content of at least 70 wt% of the overall hydrogel wt%. The method of aspect 55, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous synthetic material selected from the group consisting of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a polypyrrole (PPy), a polyethylene glycol (PEG), a polyethylene oxide (PEO), a polycaprolactone, a poly vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), and a poly lactic acid (PLA). The method of aspect 55, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous natural material selected from the group consisting of a gelatin, a polysaccharide, a starch, a alginate, a agarose, a collagen, a fibrin, a chitosan, a pectin, a heparin, a hyaluronic acid, a carrageenan, a cellulose, a lignin, a polyanhydride, a poly sebacic acid, and a polyphosphazene. The method of aspect 55, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprising a porous natural material has a structure that is crosslinked, grafted with monomers, or blended with synthetic polymers.The method of aspect 55, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two distinct watercontaining hydrogels sourced from a porous synthetic material, a porous natural material, and / or both. The method of aspect 55, wherein the light source emits light having a peak at a wavelength of about 520 nm. The method of aspect 55, wherein the light source comprises a laser, a LED, or a UV light. The method of aspect 55, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two distinct light sources. The method of aspect 55, further comprising the steps of using a sensor that determines the internal container humidity level, using a fan that disperses water molecules expelled from the hydrogel, and using a control unit that controls the light source. The method of aspect 66, wherein the control unit is programmable to control the light source in an amount effective to reach or maintain a predetermined relative humidity in the internal container. The method of aspect 66, wherein the control unit has a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to: a) down-regulate the light source to reduce or cease irradiation of the hydrogel; and / or b) up-regulate the light source to commence or increase irradiation of the hydrogel. The method of aspect 68, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to irradiate the hydrogel in increments to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel. A method of controlling humidity of an incubator, the incubator having a housing that at least partially encloses an internal container that has an opening, and wherein the housing and the internal container define a recirculation space therebetween, and wherein the recirculation space and the internal container are fluidly coupled to each other, comprising: placing a water-containing hydrogel into the recirculation space; using a light source to irradiate the water-containing hydrogel for a time and with an intensity effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel into the recirculation space;circulating air through the recirculation space and the internal container while the water-containing hydrogel is being irradiated; measuring a humidity level in the internal container; and upon reaching a predetermined humidity level in the internal container, discontinuing irradiating the water-containing hydrogel. The method of aspect 70, further comprising a step of evaporating water from a second humidifier located within the incubator, wherein the second humidifier comprises a bulk water reservoir for evaporation. The method of aspect 70, wherein the primary air flow control device recirculates at least 90% of all air in the primary air veil through the recirculation space. The method of aspect 70, wherein the recirculation space at least partially encloses a plurality of sensors selected from the group consisting of a CO2 sensor, an O2 sensor, a humidity sensor, a humidifier, an atmospheric pressure sensor, and temperature sensor, and further at least partially encloses a sterilization unit, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEP A) filter, an activated charcoal filter, and / or a heater. The method of aspect 70, wherein the primary air veil and / or a secondary air veil is a directional veil or a laminar flow veil. The method of aspect 70, wherein the primary air flow control device further comprises a movable vane that controls a direction of the primary air veil. The method of aspect 70 further comprising a control unit having a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to: a) down-regulate the primary air flow control device and optionally cause movement of a vane coupled to the primary air flow control device upon the door moving into a closed position; b) up-regulate the primary air flow control device and optional secondary air flow control device upon the door moving into an open position; and / or c) cause movement of a vane coupled to the primary air flow control device when the door is in the open position.The method of aspect 76, wherein the control unit is further electronically coupled to a temperature sensor, a gas sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, and / or a humidity sensor, and wherein the instructions cause the control unit to activate a heater, open a gas valve to allow entry of a gas into the incubator, and / or activate the humidifier. The method of aspect 76, wherein the control unit is further electronically coupled to an access control device that is programmed to receive a user command and / or validate an authorized user of the incubator, and wherein the instructions cause the control unit to move the door from the closed to the open position upon receiving the user command and / or validation of the authorized user. The method of aspect 78, wherein the user command is a voice command or user gesture, and / or wherein the authorized user is validated by face recognition. The method of aspect 70, further comprising a door coupled to the housing, wherein the door, when in a closed position, is positioned in an area otherwise occupied by the secondary air veil. The method of aspect 70, wherein the internal container has a volume of between 10 and 400 L. The method of aspect 70, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two water-containing hydrogels. The method of aspect 70, wherein the humidifier is configured to allow replacement of the water-containing hydrogel upon depletion. The method of aspect 70, wherein the water-containing hydrogel contains a water content of at least 70 wt% of the overall hydrogel wt%. The method of aspect 70, wherein the light source emits light having a peak at a wavelength of about 520 nm. The method of aspect 70, wherein the light source comprises a laser or UV light. The method of aspect 70, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two distinct light sources.90. The method of aspect 76, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to irradiate the hydrogel in increments to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel.91. The method of aspect 76 or aspect 88 further comprising a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to: a) down-regulate the light source to reduce or cease irradiation of the hydrogel; and / or b) up-regulate the light source to commence or increase irradiation of the hydrogel.92. The method of aspect 70, wherein the control unit is programmable to control the light source in an amount effective to reach or maintain a predetermined relative humidity in the internal container.

[0080] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as concentration, reaction conditions, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” As used herein, the terms "about" and "approximately", when referring to a specified, measurable value (such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like), is meant to encompass the specified value and variations of and from the specified value, such as variations of + / -10% or less, alternatively + / -5% or less, alternatively + / -1% or less, alternatively + / -0.1% or less of and from the specified value, insofar as such variations are appropriate to perform in the disclosed embodiments. Thus, the value to which the modifier "about" or "approximately" refers is itself also specifically disclosed. The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention. As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in thedescription herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As also used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term "coupled to" is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously.

[0081] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification or claims refer to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C . . . . and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 28 May 2025 (28.05.2025)What is claimed is:

1. An incubator with humidity control, comprising: a housing that at least partially encloses an internal container, wherein the internal container has an opening; and a humidifier fluidly coupled to the internal container and comprising a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel into the internal container; and wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous synthetic material or a metal-organic framework.

2. The incubator of claim 1, wherein the incubator further comprises a second humidifier, wherein the second humidifier comprises a bulk water reservoir for evaporation.

3. The incubator of claim 1, wherein ambient air is not introduced into the incubator.

4. The incubator of claim 1, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two water-containing hydrogels.

5. The incubator claim 4, wherein at least one water-containing hydrogel comprises a water content of at least 70 wt% of the overall hydrogel wt%.

6. The incubator of claim 1, wherein the humidifier further comprises a sensor configured to receive a signal corresponding to a humidity level in the internal container.

7. The incubator of claim 1, wherein the humidifier further comprises a fan configured to disperse the expelled water into the internal container.

8. The incubator of claim 1, wherein the humidifier is configured to allow replacement of the water-containing hydrogel upon depletion.

9. The incubator of claim 1, wherein the light source emits light having a peak at a wavelength of about 520 nm.

10. The incubator of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises a laser or a UV light.45AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)11. The incubator of claim 1, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two distinct light sources.

12. The incubator of claim 1, further comprising a control unit having a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to: a) down-regulate the light source to reduce or cease irradiation of the hydrogel; and / or b) up-regulate the light source to commence or increase irradiation of the hydrogel.

13. The incubator of claim 12, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to irradiate the hydrogel in increments to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel.

14. The incubator of claim 12, wherein control unit is programmable to control the light source in an amount effective to reach or maintain a predetermined relative humidity in the internal container.

15. An incubator with humidity control, comprising: a housing that at least partially encloses an internal container, wherein the internal container has an opening; a primary air flow control device coupled to the housing and / or internal container and positioned relative to the internal container to direct a primary air veil along or substantially parallel to a hypothetical plane covering the opening; a recirculation space between the internal container and the housing, wherein the air flow from the primary air flow control device directs the air at least partially into the recirculation space that begins at the distal end of the primary air veil; a humidifier disposed within the recirculation space and comprising a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous synthetic material or a metal-organic framework; and a secondary air flow control device coupled to the housing and / or internal container and positioned relative to the internal container to direct a secondary air veil substantially parallel to the primary air veil.46AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)16. The incubator of claim 15 further comprising a primary and / or secondary suction fan, wherein the primary suction fan is positioned to receive air from the primary air veil, and wherein the secondary suction fan is positioned to receive air from the secondary air veil.

17. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the primary air flow control device is configured to receive ambient air from the recirculation space and wherein the primary suction fan expels the primary air veil to the recirculation space.

18. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the recirculation space is entirely formed between the internal container and the housing.

19. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the primary air flow control device recirculates at least 75% of all air in the primary air veil through the recirculation space.

20. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the incubator further comprises a second humidifier, wherein the second humidifier comprises a bulk water reservoir for evaporation.

21. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the recirculation space at least partially encloses a plurality of sensors selected from the group consisting of a CO2 sensor, an O2 sensor, a humidity sensor, a humidifier, an atmospheric pressure sensor, and temperature sensor, and further at least partially encloses a sterilization unit, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEP A) filter, an activated charcoal filter, and / or a heater.

22. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the primary air veil and / or the secondary air veil is a directional veil or a laminar flow veil.

23. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the primary air flow control device further comprises a movable vane that controls a direction of the primary air veil.

24. The incubator of claim 15 further comprising a control unit having a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to: a) down-regulate the primary air flow control device and optionally cause movement of a vane coupled to the primary air flow control device upon the door moving into a closed position;47AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)b) up-regulate the primary air flow control device and optional secondary air flow control device upon the door moving into an open position; and / or c) cause movement of a vane coupled to the primary air flow control device when the door is in the open position.

25. The incubator of claim 24, wherein the control unit is further electronically coupled to a temperature sensor, a gas sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, and / or a humidity sensor, and wherein the instructions cause the control unit to activate a heater, open a gas valve to allow entry of a gas into the incubator, and / or activate the humidifier.

26. The incubator of claim 24, wherein the control unit is further electronically coupled to an access control device that is programmed to receive a user command and / or validate an authorized user of the incubator, and wherein the instructions cause the control unit to move the door from the closed to the open position upon receiving the user command and / or validation of the authorized user.

27. The incubator of claim 15, further comprising a door coupled to the housing, wherein the door, when in a closed position, is positioned in an area otherwise occupied by the secondary air veil.

28. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the primary and / or secondary air veil has an airflow between about 0.3 to 0.6 m / s.

29. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the internal container has a volume of between 10 and400 L.

30. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two water-containing hydrogels.

31. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the humidifier is configured to allow replacement of the water-containing hydrogel upon depletion.

32. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the water-containing hydrogel contains a water content of at least 70 wt% of the overall hydrogel wt%.

33. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the humidifier comprises at least two distinct light sources.48AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)34. The incubator of claim 24, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to irradiate the hydrogel in increments to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel.

35. The incubator of claim 24 or claim 34 further comprising a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to: a) down-regulate the light source to reduce or cease irradiation of the hydrogel; and / or b) up-regulate the light source to commence or increase irradiation of the hydrogel.

36. The incubator of claim 15, wherein the control unit is programmable to control the light source in an amount effective to reach or maintain a predetermined relative humidity in the internal container.

37. A humidifier, comprising: a housing at least partially enclosing a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous synthetic material or a metalorganic framework; a sensor configured to receive a signal corresponding to a humidity level in an enclosed space; a fan configured to disperse the expelled water into the enclosed space; and a control unit informationally coupled to the sensor, the light source, and / or the fan, wherein the control unit is programmable to generate or maintain a predetermined humidity level in the enclosed space.

38. The humidifier of claim 37, wherein the humidifier further comprises a bulk water reservoir for evaporation.

39. The humidifier of claim 37, wherein the housing comprises a material selected from the group consisting of a metal alloy, a polymer, a glass, and a ceramic.

40. The humidifier of claim 37, wherein the humidifier comprises a second water-containing hydrogel.49AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)41. The humidifier of claim 37, wherein the humidifier is configured to allow replacement of the water-containing hydrogel upon depletion.

42. The humidifier of claim 37, wherein the water-containing hydrogel contains an interstitial water content of at least 70 wt% of the overall hydrogel wt%.

43. The humidifier of claim 37, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous synthetic material selected from the group consisting of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a polypyrrole (PPy), a polyethylene glycol (PEG), a polyethylene oxide (PEO), a polycaprolactone, a poly vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), and a poly lactic acid (PEA).

44. The humidifier of claim 37, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous natural material selected from the group consisting of a gelatin, a polysaccharide, a starch, a alginate, a agarose, a collagen, a fibrin, a chitosan, a pectin, a heparin, a hyaluronic acid, a carrageenan, a cellulose, a lignin, a polyanhydride, a poly sebacic acid, and a polyphosphazene.

45. The humidifier of claim 42, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprising a porous natural material that has a structure that is crosslinked, grafted with monomers, or blended with synthetic polymers.

46. The humidifier of claim 37, wherein the control unit has a microprocessor and a memory storing instructions executable on the microprocessor, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to: a) down-regulate the light source to reduce or cease irradiation of the hydrogel; and / or b) up-regulate the light source to commence or increase irradiation of the hydrogel.

47. The humidifier of claim 37, wherein control unit is programmable to control the light source in an amount effective to reach or maintain a predetermined relative humidity in the internal container.

48. The humidifier of claim 46, wherein the instructions cause the control unit to irradiate the hydrogel in increments to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel.

49. A method of controlling humidity of an incubator, comprising: placing a humidifier into an internal container;50AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)wherein the humidifier comprises a water-containing hydrogel and a light source emitting light at a wavelength effective to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel; wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous synthetic material or a metal-organic framework; measuring a humidity level in the internal container, and using the light source to expel water from the water-containing hydrogel until a predetermined humidity level in the internal container is achieved.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein the incubator further comprises a second humidifier, wherein the second humidifier comprises a bulk water reservoir for evaporation.

51. The method of claim 49, wherein the humidifier is configured to allow replacement of the water-containing hydrogel upon depletion.

52. The method of claim 49, wherein the water-containing hydrogel contains an interstitial water content of at least 70 wt% of the overall hydrogel wt%.

53. The method of claim 49, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous synthetic material selected from the group consisting of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a polypyrrole (PPy), a polyethylene glycol (PEG), a polyethylene oxide (PEO), a polycaprolactone, a poly vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), and a poly lactic acid (PEA).

54. The method of claim 49, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprises a porous natural material selected from the group consisting of a gelatin, a polysaccharide, a starch, a alginate, a agarose, a collagen, a fibrin, a chitosan, a pectin, a heparin, a hyaluronic acid, a carrageenan, a cellulose, a lignin, a polyanhydride, a poly sebacic acid, and a polyphosphazene.

55. The method of claim 49, wherein the water-containing hydrogel comprising a porous natural material has a structure that is crosslinked, grafted with monomers, or blended with synthetic polymers.

56. The method of claim 49, further comprising the steps of using a sensor that determines the internal container humidity level, using a fan that disperses water molecules expelled from the hydrogel, and using a control unit that controls the light source.51AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)57. The method of claim 49, wherein the control unit is programmable to control the light source in an amount effective to reach or maintain a predetermined relative humidity in the internal container.

58. An incubator with humidity control, comprising: a housing that at least partially encloses an internal container, wherein the internal container has an opening; and a humidifier fluidly coupled to the internal container and comprising a MOF and a heat source providing thermal energy at a degree effective to expel water from the MOF.

59. The incubator of claim 58, wherein the MOF comprises MOF-801, MOF-303, and / or MOF-841.

60. The incubator of claim 58, wherein the MOF comprises a plurality of different MOF variants.

61. The incubator of claim 58, wherein the MOF releases water in response to exposure to frequencies of light.

62. The incubator of claim 58, wherein the heat source comprises an electrical heater, an infrared heater, a heat lamp, heat pump, and / or an air compressor.

63. The incubator of claim 58, wherein the MOF is isolated from the internal container, and wherein water expelled from the MOF is transferred to the internal container via a conduit.52AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)

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