Passive Freezing Rate Regulator with Adjustable Thermal Ballast
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for freezing live cells and tissues are either costly due to the need for actively regulated freezing units or inconsistent due to reliance on passive insulation methods, which can lead to variable cell survival rates and undesirable selection of cell sub-populations.
Innovation Solution
A passive temperature reduction device with a cylindrical container and radial receptacle holes for specimen vials, utilizing a central chamber with adjustable thermal ballast to control the temperature reduction profile, thereby ensuring consistent freezing rates without the need for solvents or frequent replacements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If actively regulated freezing units are used, then the temperature reduction profile can be precisely controlled, but the cost becomes prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex electronic control system of actively regulated freezing units with a passive thermal design using phase change materials and insulation layers. The temperature reduction profile is achieved through carefully selected thermal masses and insulating materials rather than electronic sensors and actuators, dramatically reducing cost while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention achieves precise temperature control by changing the physical parameters of passive components - specifically the thickness and thermal conductivity of insulation layers, and the phase change temperature and heat capacity of phase change materials. These parameter adjustments allow customization of the freezing profile without requiring active control systems.
2Ease of manufacture
If passive insulation methods are used, then the cost is reduced, but the cell survival rates become variable and inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different insulation properties to different locations within the container - using phase change materials in specific zones, varying insulation thickness around different vial positions, and creating localized thermal environments. This ensures that each vial experiences the optimal freezing profile for consistent cell survival while maintaining passive, low-cost construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite structures combining multiple materials with different thermal properties - phase change materials for temperature regulation, insulation materials for thermal protection, and conductive elements for heat distribution. This composite approach provides reliable and repeatable freezing profiles without the cost of active control systems.
3Temperature
If solvents like isopropyl alcohol are used for thermal mass, then the freezing profile can be controlled, but frequent replacements are required due to moisture absorption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hygroscopic solvents like isopropyl alcohol with phase change materials that are either solids or sealed in moisture-proof containers. These materials are inherently resistant to moisture absorption from the atmosphere, eliminating the need for frequent replacements while maintaining effective thermal mass for freezing profile control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses phase change materials with long operational lifetimes that do not degrade or absorb moisture like solvents. These materials can be used repeatedly without replacement, reducing operational costs and waste disposal requirements while maintaining consistent thermal performance throughout their service life.
4Quantity of substance
If concentric circle arrangement of vials is used, then the device can hold multiple samples, but the inner vials experience variance in temperature reduction profile
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the container into multiple independent thermal zones, each with its own phase change material and insulation characteristics. This segmentation allows each vial or group of vials to experience an optimized and uniform freezing profile, eliminating the temperature variations that occur in concentric arrangements while still accommodating multiple samples.
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 device provides consistent and reliable temperature reduction profiles, improving cell survival rates by controlling the freezing rate, and eliminating the need for costly solvents and frequent replacements, thus reducing operational costs and minimizing sample degradation.
Implementation Method 1
a container with walls constructed from an insulating material that surrounds a central cavity
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a central chamber with adjustable thermal ballast to control the temperature reduction profile
Implementation Method 3
Regulation of the temperature reduction profile can be easily achieved through active thermal management by electronic processor regulation of a freezing chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for concurrently and uniformly removing thermal energy from a specimen sample. A thermal insulating device is provided comprising an insulating material, the device having a plurality of chambers for receiving specimen samples, the device further includes a thermal ballast whereby the rate of thermal energy removal is controlled and influenced by the thermal ballast.