Systems, methods, and devices for frozen sample distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for accessing and processing frozen biological samples involve repeated freeze-thaw cycles, leading to sample degradation, inefficient use of freezer space, and increased costs, necessitating a more efficient method for extracting aliquots from frozen specimens without thawing.
Innovation Solution
A coring system utilizing a linear oscillatory motion driven by a motor to extract samples from frozen specimens without thawing, incorporating a cooling reservoir to maintain specimen integrity and prevent frost buildup, with a drill bit designed to minimize heat generation and radial cracking, and a receiving device for precise sample collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If repeated freeze-thaw cycles are used to access samples, then sample accessibility is improved, but sample degradation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-freezes the drill bit before use and maintains the specimen in a frozen state throughout the sampling process. By preparing the drilling apparatus in advance with frozen components and maintaining cold temperatures during extraction, the system enables direct sampling from frozen specimens without requiring thawing, thus improving accessibility while preserving sample integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the temperature parameter of the drilling apparatus to match the frozen state of the specimen. The drill bit is pre-cooled to sub-zero temperatures, and the drilling process is performed while both the specimen and apparatus remain frozen. This parameter change allows mechanical extraction of samples from frozen material without causing degradation from thermal cycling.
2Ease of operation
If specimens are stored in multiple containers before freezing, then sample accessibility is improved, but freezer space efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares the drilling apparatus in advance by pre-freezing the drill bit and positioning it for immediate use on frozen specimens. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for pre-divided containers, as the system can directly extract aliquots from intact frozen specimens, thereby improving space efficiency while maintaining accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts only the required aliquot amount directly from the frozen specimen using a pre-frozen drill bit. By extracting samples in their frozen state without requiring prior division into multiple containers, the system eliminates unnecessary containerization, improving freezer space utilization while maintaining the ability to access specific sample quantities.
3Device complexity
If frozen specimens are drilled without pre-freezing the drill bit, then device complexity is reduced, but heat generation increases causing sample degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The drill bit is pre-frozen before use to sub-zero temperatures. This preliminary cooling of the drilling apparatus prevents heat generation during the drilling process, as the bit is already at the required temperature. The system maintains simplicity by using a straightforward pre-freezing step rather than complex active cooling mechanisms during drilling.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies beforehand cushioning by pre-freezing the drill bit to counteract any potential heat generation during drilling. By preparing the bit in advance at the correct temperature, the system prevents thermal damage to the specimen without requiring complex active cooling systems during the actual drilling operation.
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 system reduces sample degradation, minimizes freezer space requirements, and decreases lead times for specimen delivery, while maintaining sample integrity and reducing operational costs by directly sampling frozen specimens without the need for thawing.
Implementation Method 1
A coring system utilizing a linear oscillatory motion driven by a motor to extract samples from frozen specimens without thawing
Implementation Method 2
incorporating a cooling reservoir to maintain specimen integrity and prevent frost buildup
Implementation Method 3
extracting frozen biological samples from frozen specimens without thawing the specimen
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A drilling system including a motor that produces a sonic, linear oscillatory motion is provided for removing a frozen biological sample from a stored frozen specimen and methods of use thereof without thawing the remainder of the specimen. The stator and slider assembly is operated by a servo controller which can communicate and be programmed through a port of a PC equipped with software.