Cryopreservation device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cryopreservation devices require workers to manually load and unload case main bodies, leading to high operational burdens and risks of frostbite, as well as potential temperature rises for untargeted samples during the extraction process.
Innovation Solution
A cryopreservation device featuring a cryopreservation vessel with a vertically movable case and adjacent stages, allowing for the selective extraction of samples without lifting the entire case, utilizing arms and a rotary table to manage sample placement and temperature control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the entire case main body is manually loaded and unloaded from the cryopreservation vessel, then the worker can access the samples, but the operational burden increases and frostbite risk arises
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the case main body into multiple movable cases, each capable of being independently positioned and accessed. The rotary table divides the storage space into multiple sectors, allowing selective rotation to bring specific cases to the access position without moving the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary robotic arm system that acts as a mediator between the operator and the samples. The robotic arm can automatically extract samples from the movable cases, eliminating the need for direct manual handling of the heavy case main body and reducing frostbite risk.
2Ease of operation
If the case main body is extracted from the cryopreservation vessel to access samples, then the samples become accessible, but the temperature of other samples may rise
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the necessary component (specific movable case or individual sample) rather than the entire case main body. The robotic arm can extract a single sample or a specific movable case while leaving the rest of the storage system in place, maintaining temperature stability for other samples.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable cases are designed to be dynamically repositionable within the cryopreservation vessel. Cases can be rotated into position, opened, and closed without removing the entire case main body, allowing dynamic access while maintaining static thermal conditions for other stored samples.
3Reliability
If equipment and jigs for frostbite prevention are used during manual handling, then safety improves, but the device complexity and operational burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm system provides self-service by automatically performing sample extraction and case manipulation tasks. The system handles its own operations without requiring external protective equipment or assistance, as the robotic components are not susceptible to frostbite and can operate directly in the cryogenic environment.
Data Source
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 is provided, including: a cryopreservation vessel that internally accommodates a drawer configured to store vials side by side in a vertical direction in each box and has an opening communicating with a task space provided in an upper surface thereof; a drawer-raising/lowering device that raises and lowers the drawer in the vertical direction via the opening in a state where the drawer is gripped and maintains the drawer at an arbitrary height; a first stage that is provided above the cryopreservation vessel 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 that presses the box to move the box to the first stage.