A device for preparing samples for use in a cryo-electron microscope
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cryo-electron microscope sample preparation devices are limited in their ability to prepare a wide range of samples effectively, particularly in achieving consistent vitrification results.
Innovation Solution
A device with a transfer mechanism that can switch between jetting and plunging modes, using a single mechanism to either jet cryogenic fluid onto a sample carrier or plunge it into a reservoir, allowing for more flexible and efficient sample preparation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single transfer mechanism is used to switch between jetting and plunging modes, then device versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions: it can transfer the sample carrier to the jetting position for jet freezing, to the plunging position for plunge freezing, and to the blotting position for liquid removal. This multi-functional design allows a single mechanism to replace what would traditionally require separate dedicated mechanisms for each operation, thereby improving versatility while managing complexity through functional integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the transfer functions for jetting, plunging, and blotting operations into a single integrated transfer mechanism. By merging these functions into one mechanism rather than using separate mechanisms for each operation, the device achieves greater versatility without proportionally increasing complexity, as the merged mechanism shares common components and control systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If jetting mode is used for sample vitrification, then sample preparation flexibility is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system monitors and adjusts the positioning of the sample carrier and jetting device to ensure precise alignment during jet freezing operations. By implementing feedback control, the system can compensate for positioning variations and maintain the required manufacturing precision for successful jetting vitrification, thereby enabling flexible sample preparation without sacrificing accuracy
3Reliability
If plunging mode is used for sample vitrification, then vitrification reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plunging function is merged into the existing multi-functional transfer mechanism rather than requiring a separate dedicated plunging device. By combining the plunging capability with the transfer mechanism that already handles sample carrier movement, the device achieves reliable plunge freezing without proportionally increasing overall complexity, as the plunging action utilizes the same mechanical infrastructure as other sample preparation steps
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 reliable vitrification of samples through jetting or plunging methods, enhancing the device's versatility and effectiveness in preparing various samples for cryo-electron microscopy.
Implementation Method 1
a jet or stream of cryogenic fluid to be brought into contact with the specimen provided onto the sample carrier so that the specimen may be vitrified
Implementation Method 2
the transfer mechanism is additionally arranged for bringing the holder to a plunging position. In the plunging position the sample carrier is inside said internal volume of said plunging reservoir
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A device for preparing samples for use in a Cryo-Electron Microscope. The device comprises a holder for holding a sample carrier, at least one jetting device that is arranged for providing a jet of cryogenic fluid to said sample carrier, and a transfer mechanism that is operably coupled to the holder for bringing the holder to a jetting position. In the jetting position the holder is located near the at least one jetting device for receiving said jet of cryogenic fluid. The device further comprises a plunging reservoir for receiving a volume of cryogenic fluid, wherein the transfer mechanism is additionally arranged for bringing the holder to a plunging position. In the plunging position the holder is positioned at least partly inside an internal volume of said plunging reservoir for bringing the sample carrier in contact with cryogenic fluid.