Cryogenic Biological Specimen Tracking with Procedure Data Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for handling and tracking biological specimens in cryogenic storage face challenges such as misidentification, mix-ups, and exposure to non-cryogenic conditions during retrieval, leading to potential subject-specimen mix-ups and specimen loss.
Innovation Solution
A system and method involving procedure data structures (PDS) are used to track and manage biological specimens, including generating and updating PDSs with subject, procedure, container, and holder identifiers, and integrating with a graphical user interface for scheduling and data storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual labeling methods are used for specimen holders, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to misidentification and mix-ups
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical labeling with an automated optical identification system using barcodes or RFID tags. The system uses a scanner to read identifiers and a printer to generate labels, eliminating manual writing and reducing human error in specimen identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of specimen information in a database that can be quickly accessed and verified. The barcode or RFID tag serves as a copy of the specimen's identity, allowing rapid verification without manual checking of written labels.
2Volume of stationary object
If multiple specimen holders are stored together in cassettes and stacks, then loss of space is reduced, but object-affected harmful factors increase due to exposure to non-cryogenic conditions during retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification and verification of the required specimen holder using barcode scanning before retrieval. This allows the system to prepare the exact retrieval path and minimize the number of holders that need to be moved, reducing exposure time to non-cryogenic conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a controlled retrieval mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the storage stack and the user. The system can retrieve specific holders from deep within stacks using automated mechanisms that minimize opening the cryogenic storage, thereby protecting other specimens from temperature fluctuations.
3Device complexity
If manual tracking and record-keeping methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of information increases due to tracking errors and mix-ups
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual record-keeping with an automated computer-based tracking system. The system uses databases to store specimen information and software to manage retrieval records, automatically updating records when barcodes are scanned, thereby eliminating manual tracking errors while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized software interfaces.
4Reliability
If automated barcode scanning and tracking systems are implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the automated system to perform multiple functions through integrated components. The barcode scanner also serves as an input device for the computer, the database stores both specimen information and retrieval records, and the software manages both tracking and retrieval scheduling, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite increased automation.
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
Enhances the accuracy and efficiency of specimen handling by minimizing exposure to non-cryogenic conditions and reducing the risk of mix-ups through automated tracking and record-keeping.
Implementation Method 1
the process of vitrification in which a biological specimen or sample (e.g., an oocyte, an embryo, a biopsy) contained in or on a storage device (e.g., a cryopreservation straw, cryopreservation tube, stick or spatula) is rapidly cooled by placing the biological specimen and the storage device in a substance, such as liquid nitrogen. This results in a glass-like solidification or glassy state of the biological specimen
Implementation Method 2
stored in a cryogenic conditions... continuously stored in a liquid nitrogen dewar or other container containing the liquid nitrogen, which is at a temperature of negative 190 degrees Celsius
Data Source
AI summary
A biological specimen of a subject is handled and tracked for a procedure involving that specimen. Prior to initiation of the procedure, a first procedure data structure (PDS) is generated. The first PDS binds an identifier corresponding to the subject with an indicator of a procedure to be performed on the specimen and identifiers of a specimen container and a specimen holder that physically contacts the biological specimen, as well as a scheduled time for the procedure. A schedule of a plurality of PDSs including the first PDS, is displayed on a display device of a graphical user interface. Following initiation of the procedure, the first PDS is updated based on user input, and after the procedure, at least a portion of the first PDS, as updated, is stored in a database in conjunction with other PDSs respectively associated with other completed procedures.