Cassette Handler Layout for Low-Temperature Sample Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing low-temperature storage devices face inefficiencies in handling objects within storage cassettes, particularly in accessing and manipulating samples at extremely low temperatures below −20°C, which hampers efficient storage and retrieval processes.
Innovation Solution
A low-temperature storage device design featuring a storage chamber with a cassette handler that includes a cassette lift and transport mechanism, allowing for the vertical movement and horizontal displacement of storage cassettes, along with a cassette holder and access opening for efficient access to objects at a higher temperature than storage temperature, enhancing handling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If objects are stored in vertically arranged storage locations within cassettes, then multiple objects can be stored in a single cassette, but accessing objects at different heights becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces horizontal displacement capability to the cassette handler, allowing cassettes to be moved not only vertically but also horizontally to different positions. This adds a spatial dimension to the access mechanism, enabling parallel access to multiple storage locations within a cassette simultaneously, thereby reducing the time penalty associated with vertically arranged storage.
2Ease of operation
If a cassette lift is used to move cassettes vertically, then individual cassettes can be accessed, but the mechanism becomes more complex and requires more space
Solution Approach 1:
The cassette holder is designed to perform multiple functions: it not only holds the cassette during vertical lifting but also enables horizontal displacement and positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for vertical and horizontal movement, thereby simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If an access opening is provided in the insulating wall, then objects can be transferred between storage chamber and transfer location, but thermal insulation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The access opening is strategically positioned and sized to minimize its impact on thermal insulation. By extracting only the necessary minimum opening area required for object transfer, the patent reduces the thermal bridge effect while maintaining adequate transfer capability. The opening is integrated into the insulating wall structure to maintain overall thermal efficiency.
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
Enables quick and efficient access to multiple objects within storage cassettes by lifting and positioning them adjacent to an access opening, maintaining temperature consistency and reducing handling challenges at low temperatures.
Implementation Method 1
A refrigerator device (10) adapted and structured to cool said storage chamber (1) to a storage temperature below 0°C
Implementation Method 2
Vertical, insulating walls (2a) enclosing said storage chamber (1)
Data Source
AI summary
The storage device is adapted to store a plurality of objects, such as sample tube holders, at low temperatures, e.g. at −80° C. It comprises a storage chamber with a plurality of storage cassettes arranged in its bottom section. A cassette lift in its top section can be used to lift individual storage cassettes up and to move them to an access opening, where the contents of the storage cassette can be accessed.