Cryo-collection systems and related methods and hyperpolarizer systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cryogenic collection systems for hyperpolarized noble gases require manual movement of components and multiple user actions, which complicates clinical use and increases the risk of errors.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained cryo-collection system with a dewar that serially freezes and thaws hyperpolarized Xenon-129 (129Xe) using separate fluid flow paths for coolant and heated liquids, allowing for automated accumulation and release without moving the accumulator, which remains statically mounted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual movement of components is used in conventional cryogenic collection systems, then the system structure is simpler, but the ease of operation deteriorates and reliability worsens due to increased manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs operations automatically without requiring manual intervention. The accumulator remains stationary while coolant and heated liquids are pumped through it in sequence, enabling self-contained freeze-thaw cycles that eliminate the need for manual component movement by operators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated fluid-based system. Instead of manually moving the accumulator between coolant and heated liquid reservoirs, pumpable coolant and heated liquids are circulated through the stationary accumulator, substituting mechanical movement with hydraulic circulation controlled by valves and pumps
2Reliability
If the accumulator is moved manually between coolant and heated liquid, then the system design is simpler, but the reliability deteriorates due to increased risk of user errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates operator intervention by automatically cycling coolant and heated liquids through the accumulator. The multi-valve system and pumps work together to perform freeze-thaw cycles autonomously, removing human error from the operation sequence and improving reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces valve mechanisms as intermediaries that automatically control fluid flow between reservoirs and the accumulator. These valves act as mediators that eliminate the need for direct manual handling of the accumulator, reducing user errors while managing system complexity through automated flow control
3Productivity
If automated fluid flow paths are used, then productivity improves through faster operations, but device complexity increases due to multiple flow paths and valves
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous automated operation by maintaining fluid flow paths that can rapidly cycle coolant and heated liquids through the accumulator. The pumpable fluid system allows for faster, more consistent freeze-thaw cycles compared to manual methods, improving productivity through continuous automated action
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs hydraulic principles by using pumpable coolant and heated liquids that can be rapidly circulated through the accumulator. This hydraulic system enables faster heat transfer and more efficient freeze-thaw cycles, improving productivity despite the added complexity of pumps and fluid management infrastructure
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 enables efficient, automated collection and release of hyperpolarized 129Xe, reducing manual intervention and improving operational safety and efficiency in clinical settings.
Implementation Method 1
The coolant liquid freezes target gas (such as, for example, 129Xe) from the gas mixture to thereby collect the target gas in the gas flow path of the accumulator
Implementation Method 2
The heated liquid has a temperature sufficient to thaw the frozen target gas
Implementation Method 3
The dewar has a chamber that is configured to hold liquid that is in thermal communication with the accumulator
Data Source
AI summary
Cryo-collection systems are provided with a fluid flow paths to a chamber enclosing at least part of an accumulator to serially provide coolant liquid and heated liquid to provide the cooling and then the heating to respectively collect/freeze, then thaw a target gas, such as collected 129Xe, in the accumulator.