Cryogenic Tissue Embedding with Electronic Labels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for cryopreserving biological tissue samples face challenges such as sample confusion due to lack of unique identifiers, complex and time-consuming embedding processes, inefficient use of resources, and irregular shapes that complicate storage and handling.
Innovation Solution
A cryogenic tissue sample embedding storage system featuring an embedded label with electronic scanning identification, a flexible embedding base with groove structures, and a heat-conducting metal enclosure that allows for batch operations and secure, efficient storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cryopreservation methods are used, then samples can be preserved, but sample confusion occurs due to lack of unique identifiers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses embedded labels with unique identifiers that are copied onto the sample surface during embedding. These labels contain scanning identification codes that replicate the sample information, ensuring unique identification without requiring the original container to remain attached to the sample.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies identifiers to the sample surface during the embedding process itself, before the sample is stored or processed further. This preliminary action ensures that unique identification is established at the time of embedding, preventing confusion in subsequent handling and storage.
2Reliability
If individual embedding operations are performed on each sample, then sample integrity is maintained, but the process is time-consuming and energy-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple embedding operations into a single batch process. Multiple samples are embedded simultaneously in one operation, and the embedded labels serve multiple samples at once, reducing the total number of operations required while maintaining individual sample integrity through unique identifiers on each label.
Solution Approach 2:
The embedded label serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides unique identification, maintains sample integrity, and enables batch processing. A single embedding operation with a universal label design can handle multiple samples, reducing time and energy consumption compared to individual operations.
3Reliability
If OCT embedding material is used, then samples are protected from air drying, but the embedded specimens have irregular shapes that occupy large refrigeration space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a shaping agent with specific local properties - it provides protection and structural support where needed while allowing the sample to maintain its actual shape. The shaping agent is applied selectively and controls its properties locally to protect the sample without forcing it into an irregular shape, thereby reducing refrigeration space requirements.
4Reliability
If opaque shaping agents are used for embedding, then samples are protected, but the internal structure becomes unrecognizable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a transparent or translucent shaping agent instead of an opaque one. This allows the internal structure of the sample to remain visible through the embedding material, while still providing the necessary protection and structural support. The transparency maintains sample protection functionality while enabling observation of internal structures.
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 prevents sample confusion, ensures identifier information is preserved, reduces resource consumption, and enables efficient batch processing while maintaining sample integrity and structure.
Implementation Method 1
a heat-conducting metal enclosure that allows for batch operations and secure, efficient storage
Implementation Method 2
the cryogenic freezing method is used in many fields such as agriculture, chemical engineering, archaeology and geological prospecting to preserve various precious sample data
Data Source
AI summary
A cryogenic tissue sample embedding storage system belongs to the field of cryopreservation of biological tissue samples, which in particular, relates to a cryogenic tissue sample embedding storage system. The present invention provides a cryogenic tissue sample embedding storage system that can avoid the confusion of samples, prevent damage to identifier information in the cutting process, and has high embedding efficiency. The present invention comprises an embedded label, a label cover, and an embedding base, and in terms of its structure, the embedding base is provided with a groove structure for placing and limiting the position of the embedded label, and an embedding enclosure wall flexibly connected to the embedding base is disposed above the groove structure.