Cryogenic Storage Trays With Cold Working Area for Specimen Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cryogenic storage containers for biological specimens face issues such as specimen thawing during retrieval due to movement into warmer zones and the inefficiency and risk of damage from using hooks to access storage units from lower turntables.
Innovation Solution
A cryogenic storage container system with independently rotatable trays and an extraction tool featuring a latch mechanism that allows SUCs to be moved directly into a cold working area on the upper tray, preventing thawing, and a secure, efficient engagement and manipulation of SUCs using an elongated rod with a latch and actuator knob.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If SUCs are moved into the position above the uppermost turntable for retrieval, then access to the SUC is achieved, but the SUC may thaw and the biological specimen may be destroyed
Solution Approach 1:
A cold working area is introduced as an intermediary zone between the lower turntables and the warm external environment. This cold working area maintains cryogenic temperatures while providing access to SUCs, allowing retrieval operations without exposing specimens to thawing conditions. The cold working area acts as a mediator that enables operation while preserving specimen integrity.
2Productivity
If hooks are used to snag SUCs from lower turntables, then SUCs can be retrieved, but the process is time consuming and difficult to use, and the SUC may disengage and be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The hook-based mechanical snagging system is replaced with a specialized extraction tool featuring a latch mechanism. This new tool engages with the SUC through a more reliable mechanical interface, allowing for secure grasping and manipulation. The extraction tool provides positive engagement that prevents accidental disengagement while enabling smooth, controlled retrieval movements.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple turntables are stacked one on top of each other to maximize storage capacity, then the number of specimens that may be contained is increased, but access to lower turntables becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The cold working area serves as an intermediary platform that enables direct access to SUCs from lower turntables without requiring sequential movement through intermediate turntables. This mediator zone allows technicians to retrieve SUCs from any turntable level efficiently while maintaining the stacked configuration for maximum storage capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A cryogenic storage container having a tank with an interior and an open top. At least two and preferably three trays are independently rotatably mounted within the interior of the housing so that an upper tray is positioned above one or more lower trays. Each tray has a plurality of compartments and each compartment is adapted to receive a source unit container. At least one cold working area is formed on the upper tray while an extraction tool selectively engages and moves stored unit containers from any of the trays and to the cold working area.