RFID Tagged IVF Sample Vessels with Non-Conductive Heated Bench
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current in vitro fertilization processes face challenges in ensuring accurate identification and tracking of biological samples to prevent human errors, which are costly and distressing due to the potential for unintended fertilization errors.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using RFID technology to code and identify biological samples, with computer-readable labels and a database system for tracking, combined with a warmed, non-conductive work station that allows for temperature control without interfering with RFID signal transmission, ensuring accurate sample identification and tracking throughout the fertilization process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional heating methods using metal pipes and heat-conductive plates are used beneath the work surface, then temperature control is achieved, but RFID signal transmission is blocked by the metal benchtop
Solution Approach 1:
A thermally insulating but electrically non-conducting material is introduced as an intermediary layer between the heating pipes and the work surface. This mediator allows thermal energy transfer while permitting RFID signal transmission through the benchtop, resolving the conflict between temperature control and signal transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the conventional metal-based heating system with an alternative heating mechanism that does not rely on metal heat-conductive plates. This substitution eliminates the electromagnetic interference with RFID signals while maintaining the necessary thermal control for sample incubation.
2Device complexity
If RFID tags are placed in close proximity to metal surfaces for compact design, then device size is reduced, but signal transmission is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
An electrically non-conducting material is placed between the RFID tag and the metal surface to act as an intermediary. This layer allows the RFID tag to remain in close proximity to the work surface for compact design while preventing the metal from blocking the radio frequency signals.
3Reliability
If a rigorous locked-in process with witnesses at every stage is implemented, then sample identification accuracy is improved, but operational cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual witness verification system with an automated RFID identification and tracking system. RFID tags on sample vessels enable automatic identification and database tracking, eliminating the need for human witnesses at each stage while maintaining or improving identification accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID system enables self-verification of sample identity through automated reading and database checking. The system automatically tracks sample locations and verifies identification without requiring human intervention or witnessing, reducing operational complexity while maintaining reliability.
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 solution provides a reliable and efficient means to prevent human errors in sample identification, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and maintaining sample viability by enabling precise tracking and verification of samples from collection to implantation.
Implementation Method 1
identification being by means of activation by radiation in the form of radio frequency waves, the tag emitting identification signals which can be received by the reader
Implementation Method 2
for the bench surface to be heated to a controlled temperature, preferably in the range 37-42° C.
Implementation Method 3
signals between the antenna and samples will not transmit through a metal benchtop... it is therefore necessary to utilise an electrically non-conducting material for the benchtop
Data Source
AI summary
A method for coding and identification of biological samples for in vitro fertilization comprises the steps of applying to receptacles intended for unfertilized eggs and sperm, respectively, an identification code characteristic of the patient; placing unfertilized eggs and sperm, respectively, in the receptacles; storing, transporting and admixing the respective samples in receptacles which each carry the same code; and implanting the resulting embryo in the patient. The identification code may based on RFID technology, in which sample vessels (12) are codified by the application of an RFID tag (13).