Modular Sample Storage with Vertical Carousel for Frozen Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample storage systems face challenges in efficiently managing large volumes of biological or chemical samples, including issues with temperature control, contamination prevention, and access flexibility, particularly at ultra-low temperatures, which affects the reliability and efficiency of sample retrieval and handling.
Innovation Solution
An automated storage system featuring a vertical carousel and modular design, allowing for independent processing and retrieval of samples without disrupting the frozen environment, with modules capable of handling different sizes and types of containers, and enabling access at multiple levels to minimize exposure and maximize storage capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the storage compartment is thawed and opened for maintenance of robotics, then accessibility and ease of operation are improved, but sample exposure to condensation and thawing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates maintenance activities from the ultra-low temperature storage environment by providing a warmer compartment specifically designed for electro-mechanical devices. This allows maintenance personnel to access and service robotics without thawing the cold storage compartment, thereby preventing sample exposure to condensation and temperature fluctuations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If an insulating wall is created between cold storage and warmer compartments, then temperature stability in each compartment is improved, but device complexity and system structure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating wall structure serves multiple functions: it thermally isolates the ultra-low temperature storage compartment from the warmer compartment, provides structural support for the system, and creates a sealed barrier preventing moisture and condensation migration. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite the added insulation layer.
3Device complexity
If a single access point at the base of the storage unit is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but access flexibility and productivity deteriorate when multiple groups need simultaneous access
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a single-point access model to a distributed access model by providing multiple access points at different locations and elevations. This dimensional expansion of access pathways allows multiple user groups to simultaneously retrieve samples without interfering with each other, significantly improving productivity while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3c
Figure 3b
AI summary
An automated storage system for storing large quantities of samples in trays includes a storage compartment, a tray shuttle compartment abutting the storage compartment on one side and a plurality of independent modules on the other side. The modules perform processing of samples that are retrieved from the storage compartment by a tray shuttle, including extraction of selected samples from retrieved source trays and transfer of the selected samples into a separate, destination tray that can be further processed or removed from the system for use. The independent operation of the modules permits handling and processing to be performed simultaneously by different modules while the tray shuttle accesses additional samples within the storage compartment. In one embodiment, a vertical carousel is used to vertically align a desired tray with the tray shuttle, while the tray shuttle operates within a horizontal plane.