Automated Sample Thawing System Using Temperature-Derivative Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for thawing cryogenically preserved cells lack standardization and consistency, leading to variability in cell recovery due to reliance on manual techniques and equipment that differs between labs, resulting in potential cell damage from improper thawing protocols and contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing sensors and algorithms to predict and control the thawing process, maintaining consistent temperature profiles and automating the thawing of cryogenic samples, including a container design with a thermally conductive pliable material for uniform heat transfer and a microprocessor to manage the thawing process based on pre-determined models and data from temperature sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual thawing techniques are used with different equipment between labs, then flexibility in operation is maintained, but consistency and standardization of thawing conditions deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling temperature parameters during thawing. The system maintains the sample at a controlled temperature (e.g., 37°C) for a specific duration, then rapidly cools it, thereby standardizing thermal parameters to ensure consistent thawing conditions across different laboratories while eliminating manual variability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical thawing operations with an automated controlled system. The microprocessor-based controller automates temperature control and timing, substituting human-operated mechanical processes with an automated system that ensures reproducible thawing conditions without requiring manual intervention.
2Speed
If rapid thawing is performed by increasing bath temperature, then thawing speed is improved, but temperature gradients within the vessel increase causing harmful thermal stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static bath thawing to a dynamic controlled process. The system actively adjusts temperature in stages: maintaining a controlled temperature for a predetermined time, then rapidly cooling. This dynamic approach optimizes the balance between thawing speed and minimizing thermal stress, adapting temperature conditions throughout the thawing process rather than maintaining a constant high temperature.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through staged temperature control. Instead of continuous high-temperature exposure, the system applies controlled heating for a specific duration followed by rapid cooling. This periodic thermal regimen achieves efficient thawing while allowing brief intervals that reduce cumulative thermal stress and temperature gradient damage.
3Reliability
If standardized automated thawing is implemented, then thawing consistency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional device that combines sample holding, temperature control, timing, and automated operation in a single integrated system. The vessel serves multiple purposes: containing the sample, facilitating thermal transfer, and enabling standardized thawing protocols. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate equipment while achieving consistent automated thawing.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If prolonged exposure to elevated temperature during thawing, then complete phase change is achieved, but cryoprotectant toxicity increases causing cell damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by completing the thawing process within a predetermined time frame before cryoprotectant toxicity becomes significant. The system is designed to achieve complete phase change and cool the sample within a specific duration, proactively preventing prolonged toxic exposure rather than reacting to damage after it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements skipping by rapidly progressing through the critical temperature exposure period. The controlled heating followed by rapid cooling strategy allows the system to quickly traverse the temperature range where cryoprotectant toxicity is highest, minimizing the time spent in the harmful temperature zone while still achieving complete thawing.
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
The system ensures consistent and uniform thawing conditions, reducing cell damage and contamination risks, enabling standardized thawing across academic and clinical settings, and improving cell recovery rates by precisely controlling the thawing process.
Implementation Method 1
heating a warming block and receiving the sample container within the warming block
Implementation Method 2
During the transition from the cryogenic storage temperature to the conclusion of the phase change to a completely liquid state
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to thawing a cryogenically frozen sample. The systems, devices, and methods may be used to heat a sample holder, the sample holder configured to receive a sample container holding the frozen sample. A sample thaw start time may be identified by measuring a temperature of the sample container and/or a temperature of the sample. A sample thaw end time may be calculated as a function of the sample thaw start time. In some embodiments, the same thaw start time may be identified by a significant change in a first derivative of a warming curve of recorded temperature measurements. The sample end time may be calculated by adding a constant to the sample thaw start time. The constant may be the average sample thaw time per the sample container.