Cryogenic Carrying Case With Multicore Cooling and RFID Tracking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transporting and using biomaterials, such as bone grafts and stem cells, are inefficient and prone to temperature fluctuations, leading to reduced viability and increased risks of graft failure due to inadequate labeling, handling, and storage conditions.
Innovation Solution
A portable, compact cryogenic carrying case with a microcontrolled multicore pressure system for temperature regulation, integrated sterile instruments, and RFID-based identification, which ensures consistent temperature, reduces manual handling errors, and provides real-time data logging and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual checking and transfer procedures are used for biomaterials, then labor costs and procedural complexity increase, but temperature control reliability and biomaterial viability decrease due to handling delays and errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (transport, storage, temperature monitoring, data logging, and communication) into a single integrated cryogenic carrying case system. The case merges the cooling function with embedded sensors, microcontrollers, and communication modules, eliminating the need for separate manual monitoring and transfer procedures while maintaining reliable temperature control throughout the biomaterial lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs self-monitoring temperature sensors and automated data logging capabilities that continuously track and record temperature conditions without human intervention. The embedded communication module automatically transmits data to stakeholders, enabling the system to serve itself in terms of monitoring and reporting, thereby reducing manual labor while enhancing reliability.
2Temperature
If dry ice transport is used for biomaterials, then cooling effectiveness is improved, but cost increases and container reusability decreases due to one-time use requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from using dry ice (solid carbon dioxide at -78°C) to an active refrigeration system that can maintain customizable temperature ranges. The system uses a refrigeration unit with controllable parameters, allowing optimization of cooling effectiveness while enabling repeated use of the same container through proper thermal management and phase change material replenishment capabilities.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple freezers are used at different facilities, then storage capacity is improved, but tracking accuracy and biomaterial identification reliability decrease due to confusion between shipments
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback through embedded RFID tags, barcodes, and communication modules that automatically track and report the location, temperature, and status of each biomaterial shipment. This real-time feedback mechanism ensures accurate identification and tracking across multiple facilities and freezers, preventing confusion between different shipments while maintaining scalable storage capacity.
4Duration of action of moving object
If extended storage time is allowed for biomaterials, then availability for use is improved, but cell viability decreases due to limited shelf life
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous useful action by ensuring uninterrupted cryogenic storage conditions through active temperature control and monitoring. The refrigeration unit operates continuously to maintain optimal temperatures, while real-time monitoring ensures any deviations are immediately detected and corrected, thereby extending the viable storage duration without compromising cell viability through consistent environmental control.
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 solution enhances the viability of biomaterials by maintaining consistent temperatures, reducing the risk of graft failure, and improving handling efficiency through real-time monitoring and data tracking, ensuring accurate placement and reducing the risk of immune reactions.
Implementation Method 1
A portable, compact cryogenic carrying case with a microcontrolled multicore pressure system for temperature regulation
Data Source
AI summary
A compact, mobile communicating carrying case for the transport and storage of temperature-sensitive materials. The carrying case regulates to temperature presets that can be altered real time directly or remotely. Cryogenic temperature control is provided by use of a low boiling point liquid coolant, like liquid nitrogen or air that accelerates in a multicore cooling system. A microprocessor-controlled double function solenoid acting as a valve and sensor, temperature sensors, and several mechanical one way release valves regulate the cooling system. Peripheral integrated modules collect, send, receive and display information on the case and on smart devices about location, core temperature, the carrier and the nature of the enclosed material. The carrying case provides a compact laser-etched sterile working area, in addition to a set of basic instruments, needed for procedures using the biological materials.