Cryogenic Freezer Mounting Hardware for Automated Sample Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cryogenic storage freezers require manual operation for accessing and retrieving sample storage racks, which is inefficient and prone to human error, and lack automated solutions for precise and reliable sample handling.
Innovation Solution
A cryogenic storage device with a rotating rack carrier and drive shaft system that allows for both manual and automated rotation, enabling the conversion from manual to automated operation by coupling the drive shaft with a motor, which supports the rack carrier and allows for precise positioning and retrieval of sample storage racks within the cryogenic environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual operation is used to access and retrieve sample storage racks, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity and operational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The rack carrier is designed with dynamic reconfigurability, allowing it to switch between manual rotation mode (simpler operation) and automated motor-driven rotation mode (higher productivity). The system can adapt its complexity level based on operational needs, resolving the contradiction between device simplicity and operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack carrier serves multiple functions: it can be operated manually for simple tasks, or coupled with a motor for automated high-throughput operations. The drive shaft system provides universal support for both manual and automated modes, allowing the same device to achieve both low complexity and high productivity depending on the mode selected.
2Ease of operation
If manual operation is used for rack access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability and precision of sample handling deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operation mode based on the task requirements. For routine access, manual operation maintains ease of use. For critical sample handling requiring high reliability and precision, the system transitions to automated motor-driven operation with controlled rotation and positioning, eliminating human error while maintaining operational simplicity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor assembly acts as an intermediary between the operator's intent and the rack carrier movement. Instead of direct manual manipulation, the motor provides precise, controlled rotation and positioning, ensuring reliable and accurate sample handling while the operator simply initiates or monitors the automated process.
3Ease of operation
If the rack carrier is supported by a bearing for manual rotation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the extent of automation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support mechanism for the rack carrier is dynamically reconfigurable. In manual mode, the bearing provides low-friction support for easy manual rotation. When automation is required, the drive shaft engages with the motor, lifting the carrier off the bearing and transferring support to the automated system. This dynamic transition allows the same physical infrastructure to serve both manual and automated operations effectively.
4Productivity
If automated motor-driven rotation is implemented, then the productivity and precision are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive shaft system provides universal support for both manual and automated operations. The same drive shaft that enables motor-driven automated rotation also supports manual operation when the motor is disengaged. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate complex mechanisms for each mode, allowing automated productivity enhancement without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Mounting hardware is installed to a cryogenic storage device to accommodate an automation system for automated storage and retrieval. A guideplate at an upper surface of a cover of the cryogenic storage device is positioned such that the guideplate is aligned in a predefined relation to an access port at the upper surface. One or more mounting posts are affixed at a location as indicated by the guideplate. A vacuum is then pulled within the cover, and the mounting hardware is affixed to the at least one mounting post.