Cryogenic Sample Holder with Acoustic Window for Fragmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sample preparation for biological and non-biological samples is challenging due to the diversity of sample types and the lability of target molecules, which can lead to degradation and perturbation of biochemical constituents during the extraction process.
Innovation Solution
A sample holder system that allows for cryogenic storage and acoustic treatment of samples within the same vessel, enabling fragmentation and stabilization of samples using focused acoustic energy, thereby minimizing exposure to external environments and maintaining the native biochemical environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate vessels and handling steps are used for storage and fragmentation, then sample processing flexibility is improved, but sample exposure to external environment increases leading to degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines storage and fragmentation functions into a single vessel system. The sample is stored in a first vessel in frozen state, then the same vessel is used to contain the sample during acoustic fragmentation treatment, eliminating the need to transfer the sample to another container and thus minimizing exposure to external environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The vessel serves multiple functions: it acts as both a storage container for frozen samples and as a treatment container for acoustic fragmentation. This multi-functional design allows the sample to remain in the same enclosed environment throughout the preparation process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual handling and multiple transfer steps are used, then processing adaptability is improved, but processing time and risk of perturbation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges storage and treatment operations into a single continuous process within the same vessel, eliminating intermediate transfer steps that consume time and increase handling complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The vessel is designed to be self-sufficient for both storage and treatment functions, requiring no external intervention for sample transfer between containers.
3Productivity
If conventional mechanical crushing is used, then fragmentation is achieved, but biochemical constituents are perturbed or degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical crushing methods with acoustic treatment using ultrasonic waves. The acoustic energy delivered through the vessel wall fragments the frozen sample without direct mechanical contact, thereby avoiding perturbation or degradation of sensitive biochemical constituents.
Solution Approach 2:
The vessel wall acts as an intermediary medium that transmits acoustic energy from the treatment device to the frozen sample inside, enabling non-contact fragmentation while maintaining sample integrity.
4Reliability
If rapid freezing and immediate processing are performed, then sample stabilization is improved, but equipment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines rapid freezing capability with acoustic fragmentation treatment in a single integrated vessel platform, eliminating the need for separate equipment for each step.
Solution Approach 2:
The vessel is designed as a multi-functional device that supports both cryogenic storage and acoustic treatment operations, reducing overall equipment complexity while maintaining sample stabilization.
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 effectively stabilizes and fragments samples, reducing the risk of degradation and perturbation, allowing for consistent and controlled analysis without the need for multiple handling steps or specialized storage vessels.
Implementation Method 1
An acoustic window may be arranged as part of the vessel to admit acoustic energy into the interior space for acoustic treatment of a sample by applying focused acoustic energy to the sample
Implementation Method 2
The plunger may be arranged for extension into the interior space and movement from a first position to a second position relative to the vessel to crush the sample in the interior space
Implementation Method 3
a sample may be placed into the vessel, frozen (e.g., by exposure to liquid nitrogen or other suitable cryogen)
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for holding and/or treating a sample material. A sample may be positioned in a vessel and a crushing force may be applied to the sample material while in the vessel, e.g., by a plunger that is part of a cap to pulverize the sample at cryogenic temperatures. The sample holder may include an acoustic window arranged to admit acoustic energy into the vessel for acoustic treatment of the sample. A flexible film may be used at a portion of the vessel, e.g., at the acoustic window, to cooperate with a plunger for crushing a sample.