Cryopreservation device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cryopreservation devices require manual handling and unloading of samples, leading to increased worker burden and potential temperature fluctuations among samples, as the entire case must be removed from the cryopreservation vessel for sample extraction.
Innovation Solution
A cryopreservation device with a cryopreservation vessel that includes a drawer-raising/lowering mechanism and a first stage adjacent to the opening, allowing for the selective extraction of samples without removing the entire case, using a second arm to move the sample to the first stage, thereby minimizing temperature rise and reducing manual handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the entire case is removed from the cryopreservation vessel for sample extraction, then the intended sample can be accessed, but the temperature of other preservation targets rises and worker burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The case is divided into multiple drawers that can be independently raised and lowered. The first arm raises only the specific drawer containing the intended sample, while other drawers remain in the cryopreservation vessel, maintaining temperature stability for other preservation targets.
Solution Approach 2:
The intended sample is extracted directly from its drawer without removing the entire case. The second arm transfers the sample from the raised drawer to the first stage, allowing selective extraction while the case remains partially in the cryopreservation vessel.
2Ease of operation
If the entire case is removed from the cryopreservation vessel, then samples can be accessed, but manual handling burden and frostbite risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic sample extraction through coordinated robotic arms. The first arm automatically raises the drawer, the second arm automatically transfers the sample, and the control unit coordinates the entire process, eliminating manual handling and frostbite risks.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical handling is replaced with an automated robotic system. The first arm and second arm, controlled by a control unit, perform the mechanical operations of raising drawers and transferring samples, replacing human manual labor.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple samples are stored in a case main body, then storage capacity increases, but the entire case must be unloaded for sample extraction
Solution Approach 1:
The case is segmented into multiple independent drawers, each capable of being raised and lowered separately. This allows the system to access samples in one drawer without affecting or requiring the movement of other drawers, maintaining storage capacity while improving extraction efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of raising and moving the entire case, the system performs a partial action by raising only the specific drawer containing the intended sample. This reduces the amount of work required and improves productivity while maintaining the ability to store multiple samples.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a cryopreservation device that makes it possible to automatically extract an intended sample, and prevent the temperature of samples other than the intended sample from increasing. A cryopreservation device (1) is provided, including: a cryopreservation vessel (2) that internally accommodates a drawer (13) configured to store vials side by side in a vertical direction in each box and has an opening communicating with a task space (3) provided in an upper surface thereof; a drawer-raising/lowering device (4) that raises and lowers the drawer (13) in the vertical direction via the opening in a state where the drawer (13) is gripped and maintains the drawer (13) at an arbitrary height; a first stage (5) that is provided above the cryopreservation vessel (2) so as to be adjacent to the opening as seen in plan view and allows the box to be placed thereon; and a second pressing device (8) that presses the box to move the box to the first stage (5).