Sample Selector Thermal Segmentation for Ultra-Low Temp Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample picking mechanisms fail to operate reliably in ultra-low temperature environments due to the cold conditions, which poses a challenge for storing and retrieving samples at temperatures below -50°C.
Innovation Solution
The design of a sample picking mechanism that isolates its drive components from the ultra-low temperature environment, using a climate-controlled chamber maintained at a warmer temperature to ensure reliable operation, while the sample handling area is kept at ultra-low temperatures using evaporators for uniform temperature distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sample picking mechanism operates directly in ultra-low temperature environment, then the samples can be stored and retrieved at required temperatures, but the drive components fail to operate reliably due to cold conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The sample picking mechanism is divided into two distinct thermal zones: a warm drive section (above -50°C) and a cold sample storage section (below -50°C). The drive components are segregated into the warm zone where they can operate reliably, while the sample storage and retrieval operations occur in the cold zone. This spatial segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing drive components to operate at temperatures suitable for their reliability while still enabling ultra-low temperature sample storage.
Solution Approach 2:
A thermal barrier or insulation structure acts as an intermediary between the warm drive section and the cold sample storage section. This intermediary maintains thermal isolation, preventing cold temperatures from affecting the drive components while allowing the sample picking mechanism to function across both temperature zones. The intermediary enables the system to simultaneously maintain different temperature conditions in different sections.
2Reliability
If drive components are isolated from ultra-low temperature environment, then reliable operation is achieved, but the mechanism cannot directly access samples at ultra-low temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is segmented into a warm drive section for reliable component operation and a cold sample access section for direct sample handling. The drive components remain isolated in the warm zone while the sample picking and retrieval functions operate in the cold zone, resolving the contradiction between drive reliability and sample access capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical coupling between drive components and sample handling elements with a thermal isolation boundary. This allows the mechanical drive system to operate independently in the warm zone while still transmitting motion or force to the sample handling mechanism in the cold zone through thermally isolating connections, enabling both drive reliability and sample access.
3Reliability
If the entire sample picking mechanism is placed in ultra-low temperature environment, then sample integrity is maintained, but power consumption increases due to thermal management requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism segments the system into warm and cold zones, allowing drive components to operate in the warm zone where they do not require active heating or cooling for thermal management. Only the sample storage section requires ultra-low temperature maintenance, significantly reducing the overall power consumption compared to cooling the entire mechanism while still maintaining sample integrity in the cold zone.
Solution Approach 2:
Ultra-low temperature conditions are applied locally only to the sample storage and handling section rather than the entire mechanism. The drive components operate in a warmer zone with different thermal requirements, reducing the energy needed for thermal management while maintaining sample integrity through localized cold zone application.
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 reliable and efficient operation of sample picking mechanisms in ultra-low temperature environments by maintaining drive components at a suitable temperature, ensuring the integrity of samples and reducing power consumption and thermal management issues.
Implementation Method 1
the sample handling area is kept at ultra-low temperatures using evaporators for uniform temperature distribution
Implementation Method 2
isolates its drive components from the ultra-low temperature environment, using a climate-controlled chamber maintained at a warmer temperature
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C~1D
AI summary
An apparatus includes a frame configured to hold sample holders in an array, a longitudinal axis of the sample holder extending outward of an array plane; a drive section connected to the frame; at least one transfer arm rotatably connected to the drive section so that each transfer arm rotates about a rotation axis oriented substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis and includes a sample holder gripper; and at least one push member movably connected to the drive section and being distinct from the sample holder gripper and configured for linear movement along the longitudinal axis, the at least one push member being configured so that engagement with at least a bottom or top surface of the sample holder effects longitudinal translation of the sample holder for one or more of capture and release of the sample holder by the respective transfer arm in the longitudinal direction.