Method of preparing a cryogenic sample with improved cooling characteristic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preparing cryogenic samples often result in inconsistent vitrification due to uneven cooling, particularly when using mechanical contours that retain heat, leading to reduced sample quality.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a substantially planar sample carrier with two conduits for cryogenic fluid, each with multiple nozzle openings to ensure even cooling from both sides, allowing for simultaneous vitrification of the sample's perimeter and center, thereby preventing heat transfer from mechanical contours and enhancing uniformity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a mechanical contour is used to support the sample carrier, then the structural stability is improved, but heat retention occurs leading to uneven cooling and reduced vitrification quality
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the mechanical contour from the cooling process by placing the sample carrier directly in the cryogen bath without mechanical support structures that would retain heat. This extraction of the problematic mechanical contour eliminates the heat retention issue while maintaining sample stability through direct cryogen contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a support structureless arrangement where the sample carrier is directly supported by the cryogen bath medium itself rather than mechanical contours. The cryogen acts as both the cooling agent and the support medium, eliminating thermal interference from mechanical structures.
2Device complexity
If cooling is applied from one side only, then the device complexity is reduced, but cooling uniformity across the sample becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the cooling action into two separate segments by providing two distinct mouthpieces positioned on opposite sides of the sample carrier. Each mouthpiece independently delivers cooling fluid to its respective side, ensuring uniform cooling across the entire sample while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from one-dimensional cooling (single side) to two-dimensional cooling (both sides simultaneously) by positioning mouthpieces on opposite sides of the sample carrier. This dimensional change in cooling approach achieves uniform temperature distribution without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Speed
If rapid cooling is applied to achieve vitrification, then the vitrification speed is improved, but uneven cooling causes inconsistent vitrification quality
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies different cooling conditions to different locations by positioning mouthpieces to cool specific areas of the sample carrier. Each mouthpiece can be optimized to deliver appropriate cooling intensity to its local region, ensuring uniform vitrification quality across the entire sample while maintaining rapid cooling speeds.
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 achieves more consistent and improved vitrification across the entire sample, reducing damage and improving sample quality by ensuring even cooling and counteracting heat flux from mechanical contours.
Implementation Method 1
the sample is subjected to rapid cooling using a cryogen
Implementation Method 2
preparing a cryogenic sample, whereby the sample is subjected to rapid cooling using a cryogen
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for preparing a cryogenic sample, whereby the sample is subjected to rapid cooling using a cryogen. A pair of conduits for transporting cryogenic fluid are provided, each of which conduits opens out into a mouthpiece, which mouthpieces are arranged to face each other across an intervening gap, wherein in said gap a sample that is provided on a substantially planar sample carrier can be received. Cryogenic fluid can be pumped through said conduits so as to concurrently flush from said mouthpieces and suddenly immerse the sample in cryogenic fluid from two opposite sides. As defined herein, at least one of said mouthpieces comprises at least two nozzle openings for evenly cooling said substantially planar sample carrier during said flushing.