Modular Incubator Chamber Shutter for Low-Light Embryo Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular incubator systems for IVF procedures face challenges in monitoring embryos without exposing them to excessive light, which can detrimental to embryo quality and pregnancy success.
Innovation Solution
A modular incubator system comprising modular incubator chambers with a transparent window and a shutter mechanism that can be controlled to block or allow light, paired with a docking station equipped with an image capturing device, allowing for visual monitoring while minimizing light exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a transparent window is provided in the modular incubator chamber to enable image capturing, then visual monitoring of embryos is enabled, but excessive light exposure occurs which is detrimental to embryo quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing a shutter mechanism that can dynamically switch between open and closed states. The shutter is movable and can be positioned to either allow light transmission for image capturing or block light to protect embryos, transforming a static window into a dynamic light control system that adapts to different operational requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies periodic action by using the shutter mechanism to periodically control light exposure during image capturing operations. The shutter opens briefly when image capture is needed and closes otherwise, creating a periodic on-off light exposure pattern that enables monitoring while minimizing cumulative light damage to the embryos
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the shutter mechanism is kept closed to block light, then embryo protection is improved, but visual monitoring capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter mechanism provides dynamic control, allowing the system to switch between protection mode (shutter closed) and monitoring mode (shutter open) based on operational needs. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction by enabling both states to be accessed as required
3Ease of operation
If the modular incubator chamber is removed from the docking station for manual manipulation, then ease of operation is improved, but light exposure control and monitoring capability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter mechanism acts as an intermediary between the transparent window and the embryos, controlling light transmission independently of the chamber's position. This allows monitoring capability to be maintained or controlled even when the chamber is removed from the docking station, as the shutter can still regulate light exposure through the window
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
Enables effective visual monitoring of embryos during incubation without the detrimental effects of excessive light exposure, thereby improving the chances of successful IVF procedures.
Implementation Method 1
said shutter mechanism is being arranged relative to said transparent window of said housing in such a way that in its open configuration, said shutter mechanism is enabling transmittal of light, from the outside, into the interior of said modular incubator chamber through said transparent window
Implementation Method 2
in such a way that in its closed configuration, said shutter mechanism is blocking transmittal of light, from the outside, into the interior of said modular incubator chamber through said transparent window
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular incubator system (500) for incubating a viable biological material M is disclosed. The modular incubator system comprises one or more modular incubator chambers (300) in combination with a docking station (400). In respect of one or more of said one or more modular incubator chambers (300), said modular incubator chamber (300) comprises a housing (302) wherein said housing (302) of said modular incubator chamber (300) comprises a transparent window (316) for enabling capturing of images of a biological material M being accommodated in the interior thereof, through said transparent window. The docking station (400) comprises one or more docking ports (402) for receiving a housing (302) of one or more of said incubator chambers (300) and in respect of one or more docking ports (402) of said docking station (400), said docking port comprises an image capturing device (408) for capturing an image of the interior (306) of a modular incubator chamber (300), once being docked in said docking port (402). The housing (302) of the modular incubator chamber (300) comprises a shutter mechanism (344), wherein said shutter mechanism is configured to be able to shift between an open configuration and a closed configuration and vice versa. Hereby excessive exposure to light of the viable biological material can be avoided, and thereby more optimum incubation conditions for the viable biological material is provided.