Ambient Biological Storage Container with Raised Substrate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for storing biological materials, especially DNA, face challenges such as the need for complex and costly infrastructure for cryogenic storage, sample degradation due to freezing/thawing cycles, and inefficient use of storage space, as well as difficulties in tracing and reanalyzing samples.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for storing biological materials at room temperature using containers with a support mechanism to keep samples above the bottom, allowing for efficient storage and archiving of large quantities with integrated RFID tracking, reducing logistical and technical constraints while preserving sample integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If biological samples are stored at sub-zero temperatures, then sample integrity is preserved, but infrastructure complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the storage temperature parameter from sub-zero to ambient temperature, eliminating the need for complex cryogenic infrastructure while preserving sample integrity through a different mechanism (controlled environment storage rather than freezing).
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses simple, inexpensive storage containers that can be disposed of or reused without requiring expensive, complex cryogenic storage infrastructure, achieving comparable sample preservation at lower cost and complexity.
2Volume of stationary object
If samples are stored in microplate format at sub-zero temperatures, then storage space is reduced, but all samples must be thawed for retrieval causing degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the storage temperature parameter from frozen to ambient, allowing individual sample retrieval without thawing the entire microplate, thus preserving sample integrity while maintaining space-efficient microplate format storage.
3Loss of energy
If samples are stored at room temperature, then transportation cost is reduced, but storage infrastructure is simpler
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the storage temperature parameter from sub-zero to ambient temperature, eliminating the need for expensive cold chain transportation and storage infrastructure while implementing a simpler, more cost-effective system.
4Reliability
If FTA cards are stored in airtight envelopes with desiccant, then sample integrity is preserved, but storage space efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the protective functions (airtight sealing and desiccant) directly into the storage container itself rather than using separate envelopes, achieving sample protection while reducing overall storage space requirements.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1D
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for the ambient-temperature storage of biological material, comprising at least one container (1) formed by a base (5) and a side wall. The internal side wall of the container (1) comprises a means for maintaining a substrate, such as a ring (3), above and separate from the base of the container, said substrate being suitable for containing the biological material to be stored. The present invention also relates to a device for the ambient-temperature storage of biological material, comprising an assembly (4) rigidly secured to a plurality of devices according to the invention, and a device for archiving biological materials, which can receive at least two assemblies (4) according to the invention. The present invention further relates to a method for storing biological material and a method for unarchiving biological material.