Liquid Nitrogen Sample Cooling for Integrated Cryogenic Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for programmed cooling and storage of biological samples require multiple dedicated cooling apparatuses, making the process tedious and inconvenient for single-layer sample treatment.
Innovation Solution
A method that integrates programmed cooling and storage by raising and lowering samples in a liquid nitrogen storage box using a lifting device, controlled by a PID algorithm, to achieve staged cooling and direct storage in the same apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple independent cooling apparatuses are used for programmed cooling, then cooling precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple independent cooling apparatuses into a single integrated cooling system that can perform programmed cooling through different stages. The system uses a single cooling apparatus with multiple cooling chambers or zones that can be independently controlled, eliminating the need for multiple separate apparatuses while maintaining cooling precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to perform various cooling stages (rapid cooling, slow cooling, holding temperatures) within a single device. The apparatus can switch between different cooling modes and temperature profiles, making it universally applicable for different sample types and cooling requirements without needing multiple specialized devices.
2Reliability
If multiple dedicated cooling and storage apparatuses are used, then storage reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cooling function and storage function into a single integrated apparatus. The cooling chamber and storage chamber are combined in one device, allowing samples to be cooled and stored in the same location without requiring transfer between multiple apparatuses. This integration maintains storage reliability while significantly improving ease of operation by reducing the number of steps and device handling required.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated apparatus is designed to automatically perform both cooling and storage operations without requiring manual intervention or complex operational sequences. The system can autonomously complete the cooling process, maintain storage conditions, and manage sample positioning, reducing operational complexity and improving ease of use while maintaining reliability.
3Measurement precision
If programmed cooling and storage are separated into different apparatuses, then cooling precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines programmed cooling and storage functions in a single apparatus, allowing the cooling process and storage to occur in the same location without requiring sample transfer between devices. This integration eliminates the time lost in transferring samples between separate apparatuses, significantly improving productivity while maintaining cooling precision through controlled cooling chambers.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated apparatus enables continuous operation where cooling and storage processes can proceed simultaneously without interruption. Samples can be cooled to the required temperature and then immediately stored in the same apparatus, eliminating idle time and transfer delays. The system maintains continuous useful action by seamlessly transitioning from cooling mode to storage mode within the same device.
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
This approach simplifies the process by using a single apparatus for both cooling and storage, enhancing convenience and efficiency for single-layer sample handling.
Implementation Method 1
The samples are raised and lowered in the liquid nitrogen storage box via a lifting device, subjected to programmed cooling
Implementation Method 2
placing samples into a liquid nitrogen storage box
Implementation Method 3
utilizing a PID algorithm to control the servo motor for precise temperature regulation
Data Source
AI summary
A sample cooling and storage method is provided. A method of programmed cooling is divided into a method of cooling in several stages corresponding to a standard ambient cooling curve. In each stage of cooling, whether samples need to be raised or lowered is determined by checking whether an actual ambient temperature T1 is equal to a target ambient temperature w, so that the actual ambient temperature T1 is consistent with the target ambient temperature w, until the actual ambient temperature T1 is consistent with a target temperature T2 for this stage of cooling. After each stage of cooling in sequence, samples finally reach a temperature required for cryogenic storage, and are directly stored in a liquid nitrogen storage box. The sample cooling and storage method is capable of simultaneously realizing programmed cooling and sample storage, which is convenient for treating single-layer samples.