Cryopreservation RFID Chamber for Liquid Nitrogen Sample Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cryopreservation devices face challenges in identifying individual samples within a cryostorage tank without removing them, as RFID tags are damaged by gamma sterilization and must withstand large temperature swings, while maintaining a compact size and secure integration during the vitrification process.
Innovation Solution
A cryopreservation device with an integrated RFID section, comprising an elongated stick and a cap with a hollow chamber, securely holds an RFID tag capable of withstanding liquid nitrogen temperatures, allowing for remote identification and tracking of biological specimens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an RFID tag is incorporated into the cryopreservation device, then remote identification and tracking capability is improved, but the device size increases and the RFID tag may be damaged during sterilization and temperature swings
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag is nested within a dedicated RFID chamber in the elongated stick, which is itself part of the cryopreservation device. The chamber provides a protected environment for the RFID tag while maintaining the overall compact structure of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is segmented into functional sections: the RFID section with chamber and opening, the elongated body, and the specimen collection tip. This segmentation allows the RFID tag to be positioned in a specific location optimized for identification while maintaining overall device compactness.
2Reliability
If the RFID tag is securely held in the cryopreservation device, then tracking reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID chamber is integrated into the elongated stick structure, merging the identification function with the specimen handling structure. This reduces overall device complexity compared to having separate components for RFID attachment and specimen containment.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID chamber acts as an intermediary structure that secures the RFID tag while being part of the overall device. The chamber provides a simple mechanical interface for tag retention without requiring complex locking mechanisms or additional components.
3Reliability
If the RFID tag withstanding capability is enhanced for temperature swings, then functionality across storage conditions is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID chamber is designed with specific dimensional parameters that account for thermal expansion and contraction of the tag during temperature swings. The chamber provides sufficient clearance and structural support to maintain tag functionality from ambient to liquid nitrogen temperatures without requiring specialized materials or complex manufacturing processes.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~1d
Figure 2a~2c
AI summary
The present invention provides a cryopreservation device with an integrated tracking device chamber. The tracking device can be an RFID tag which can be placed in the cryopreservation device as part of the procedure for vitrification of a biological specimen. The cryopreservation device maintains its integrity and keeps the RFID tag securely in the chamber at both ambient conditions when the specimen is collected and under liquid nitrogen where the specimen is stored. The cryopreservation device with an integrated tracking device chamber allows for each individual biological sample to have its own tracking device for monitoring during cryogenic storage.