Cryopreservation Instrument Cap Insert Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a universal cryopreservation instrument that securely fits into the cap of cryostorage devices like cryovials or cryotubes, providing a secure and flexible interface for biological samples during cryopreservation and vitrification, as existing instruments lack a standardized and secure fitting mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A cryopreservation instrument with a substantially planar elongated member featuring a cap insert that is dimensioned to fit securely into the cap of a vial, utilizing parallel projections for a friction or slip fit, and a biological contact portion for accommodating various types of biological materials, made from cryosafe materials such as polycarbonate or stainless steel, allowing for deformation and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a universal cryopreservation instrument is designed to fit securely into the cap of cryostorage devices, then the reliability of sample storage is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for standardized fitting mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The cap insert is designed with a universal geometry that can be inserted into various cap types (e.g., 17mm and 22mm cryovial caps), allowing a single instrument design to serve multiple storage receptacles. This standardization improves reliability across different storage systems without requiring multiple specialized instruments for each cap type.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap insert incorporates resilient or deformable materials that allow the insert to flex during insertion and then maintain a secure friction fit within the cap. This flexibility enables reliable attachment while keeping the insert structure simple and adaptable to different cap dimensions.
2Ease of operation
If the cap insert is made resilient or deformable to allow insertion, then the ease of operation is improved, but the strength of the instrument may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Only specific portions of the instrument (the cap insert regions that contact the cap interior) are made resilient or deformable, while the main body and biological contact portion maintain rigid, strong construction. This localized flexibility allows easy insertion without compromising the overall structural strength needed for handling and cryopreservation operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The material properties of the cap insert are selected to provide appropriate elasticity and resilience, allowing the insert to deform under insertion force and then maintain a stable friction fit. This parameter optimization enables both ease of operation and sufficient strength to secure the insert reliably in the cap.
3Reliability
If parallel projections are used to create a friction fit, then the reliability of the fit is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel projections are designed with dimensions and tolerances that optimize the friction fit mechanism. By carefully selecting the projection width, height, and spacing parameters, the design achieves reliable retention through friction without requiring ultra-precise manufacturing, as the friction fit naturally compensates for minor dimensional variations.
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 instrument ensures secure and efficient cryopreservation by maintaining sample viability and reducing handling risks, with the ability to accommodate different biological contact types and materials, enhancing reproducibility and storage conditions for biological samples.
Implementation Method 1
The cap insert may include one or more resilient, deformable or elastic material, which, may be the same or different from the remainder of the cryopreservation instrument
Implementation Method 2
Long-term preservation of biological material, including: e.g., cells and tissues, is commonly performed in multiple fields... Such preservation may be achieved by traditional cryopreservation by vitrification
Implementation Method 3
Vitrification, a rapid cooling process that results in a glass structure at the molecular level, eliminates ice crystal formation and results in improvement in post-thaw cell viability and function
Data Source
AI summary
A cryopreservation instrument and method of using is provided. The instrument includes a substantially planar elongated member comprising a cryosafe material. The elongated member has a first end and a second end. The first end comprises a cap insert dimensioned and configured to be fit in the interior recess of a vial cap, the second end comprises a biological contact portion configured to accommodate biological material.