Automated vault module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cryopreservation methods require manual handling of samples in cryogenic environments, which can lead to temperature fluctuations and inefficiencies in storage and retrieval processes.
Innovation Solution
An automated cryogenic storage system with a sample handling module that maintains samples at cryogenic temperatures while allowing for automated storage, retrieval, and transfer between cryogenic environments, using a robotic arm and controlled refrigeration to manage temperature and humidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handling of samples is used in cryogenic environments, then ease of operation is maintained, but temperature fluctuations occur and reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the automated sample handler performs sample retrieval, transfer, and storage operations autonomously without manual intervention. The robotic arm navigates, grasps samples, and places them in destination containers automatically, eliminating the need for operators to manually handle samples in cryogenic environments while maintaining temperature stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated robotic system. The robotic arm with gripper mechanism substitutes human hands, and the automated navigation system replaces manual positioning. This mechanical substitution eliminates temperature fluctuations caused by manual opening of cryogenic storage and handling, while maintaining ease of operation through automation.
2Productivity
If automated sample handling is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm system is designed with multi-functionality to handle various sample types and storage configurations. It can navigate to different storage locations, grasp different container types, and transfer samples to multiple destinations. This universality consolidates multiple specialized devices into one system, improving productivity while managing complexity through functional integration rather than proliferation of separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a nested structure where the robotic arm with gripper is contained within the cryogenic storage environment, and the sample containers are nested within storage racks. This nesting approach allows the automated handler to operate directly within the cryogenic zone without requiring external manipulation systems, thereby improving productivity by eliminating transfer steps while keeping the overall device complexity manageable through hierarchical integration.
3Ease of operation
If samples are transferred through non-cryogenic environment, then access to samples is enabled, but temperature integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm acts as an intermediary that operates within the cryogenic environment to retrieve samples and transfer them through a controlled interface. The system maintains a sealed boundary between cryogenic and non-cryogenic zones, with the robotic arm serving as the mediator that can function across temperature boundaries. This allows sample accessibility while minimizing temperature fluctuations by limiting the exposure time and area of non-cryogenic environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system rapidly transfers samples from cryogenic storage to destination containers, minimizing the time samples spend in non-cryogenic environments. The robotic arm performs quick, precise movements to complete the transfer process in seconds, thereby enabling sample accessibility while compromising temperature integrity only transiently. This rushing through the critical transition zone reduces thermal exposure and maintains overall temperature integrity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures continuous cryogenic storage conditions, enhances access to samples, and improves efficiency in sample handling by maintaining temperature integrity during transfers and storage.
Implementation Method 1
A cryogenic storage system includes one or more storage vaults that provide for storing a plurality of samples in a cryogenic environment
Implementation Method 2
The sample handling module may move the sample quickly through a non-cryogenic environment while maintaining the sample under the cryogenic temperature threshold
Data Source
AI summary
A cryogenic storage system provides automated storage and retrieval of samples in a cryogenic environment, as well as automated transfer of individual samples between cryogenic environments. Stored samples are maintained under a cryogenic temperature threshold, while also enabling access to the samples. The samples are organized and tracked by scanning a barcode of each sample. Embodiments may also comprise multiple storage vaults and provide for transfer of individual samples between the storage vaults, as well as between a storage vault and a removable cryogenic storage device.