Cryo-collection systems, related methods and hyperpolarizers with the cryo-collection systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cryogenic systems for collecting hyperpolarized noble gases like 129Xe require liquid nitrogen and manual handling, which is cumbersome and limits clinical usability.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained cryo-collection system with an integrated heater and cooler, both in thermal communication with an accumulator, that can freeze and thaw the gas without moving components, using a Stirling engine-based cryocooler and ceramic heater within a vacuum insulated vessel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If liquid nitrogen is used for cryogenic collection, then the target gas can be frozen and collected effectively, but the system becomes cumbersome and requires manual handling
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an integrated heater that automatically thaws the accumulated target gas without requiring manual intervention. The heater is controlled by a controller that monitors the accumulation process and activates the heater when thawing is needed, making the system self-serving and eliminating cumbersome manual handling of liquid nitrogen and thawing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the cooler and heater into a single integrated cryo-collection system with both components thermally coupled to the same accumulator. This merging allows the system to perform both freezing and thawing operations without requiring separate equipment or manual handling steps, resolving the contradiction between effective collection and ease of operation.
2Temperature
If the accumulator is moved to thaw the gas, then the collected gas can be warmed, but the process requires manual actions and component movement
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated heater is automatically activated by a controller to thaw the accumulated target gas in the accumulator. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual movement of the accumulator or other components, while still achieving the required temperature change for gas release.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of moving the accumulator for thawing with a thermal approach using an integrated heater. The heater provides the necessary thermal energy to warm the gas in place, substituting mechanical movement with a controlled thermal process that is easier to operate.
3Extent of automation
If an integrated heater and cooler are used, then automation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the heater and cooler into an integrated system with both components thermally coupled to the same accumulator and controlled by a single controller, the patent achieves automation while managing complexity. The shared thermal coupling and centralized control reduce the overall system complexity compared to having separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated heater and cooler system serves multiple functions: cooling for gas accumulation, heating for gas thawing, and both operations are controlled by a single controller. This multi-functionality justifies the increased device complexity by providing comprehensive automation and eliminating the need for multiple separate systems.
4Temperature
If liquid nitrogen is required, then cryogenic temperatures are achieved, but clinical usability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The automated heater controller enables the system to self-regulate the thawing process, making the system more adaptable to clinical environments where manual handling is impractical. This automation enhances clinical usability while maintaining the ability to achieve and maintain cryogenic temperatures for effective gas collection.
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 efficient and automated collection and thawing of hyperpolarized 129Xe, reducing manual intervention and eliminating the need for liquid nitrogen, thus enhancing clinical usability and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
direct the cooler to cool the accumulator to a temperature sufficient to freeze a target gas from the gas mixture and collect the target gas in the accumulator
Implementation Method 2
direct the heater to heat the accumulator to a temperature sufficient to thaw the collected target gas
Implementation Method 3
cryo-collection system with an integrated heater and cooler, both in thermal communication with an accumulator, within a vacuum insulated vessel
Data Source
AI summary
Cryo-collection systems are provided with an integrated cooler and heater thermally coupled to an accumulator. The cooler and the heater are electronically, automatically controlled to provide the cooling and then the heating to respectively collect/freeze, then thaw a collected gas, such as 129Xe, in the accumulator.