Biological Sample Storage With Sequential Seals for Contamination Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biological sample storage systems are vulnerable to contamination, logistical failures, and automation challenges, with impractical handling and stacking issues leading to increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for preparing and storing biological samples using a multi-part seal, including a first seal for biological compatibility and a second seal for ultra-low temperature storage, with integrated tracking elements for enhanced logistics and automation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing sealing systems are used for biological samples, then the samples can be stored and transported, but the systems are vulnerable to contamination and seal failure
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is divided into multiple independent seals (first seal and second seal) that are applied sequentially to the biological sample. Each seal provides an independent barrier, so if one seal fails or breaks, the other seals continue to protect the sample from contamination, thereby resolving the vulnerability to seal failure and contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies multiple seals in advance before transportation and storage, creating redundant protective barriers. This prior cushioning ensures that even if one seal malfunctions during transit, the sample remains protected, addressing the reliability and contamination risks of existing single-seal systems.
2Extent of automation
If manual handling and logistics solutions are used, then biological samples can be transported, but the process is difficult to automate and requires special handling instructions
Solution Approach 1:
The sample container is divided into modular components (sample receptacle, first seal, second seal, cap) that can be independently handled and assembled. This segmentation enables automated assembly lines to apply seals and close containers without complex manual operations, increasing automation capability while simplifying individual handling steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap serves multiple functions: it closes the sample receptacle, provides a surface for applying the second seal, and can incorporate tracking elements. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and handling steps needed, making the process more amenable to automation while maintaining ease of operation.
3Reliability
If sample containers are designed for secure sealing, then sample integrity is maintained, but the containers are difficult to stack for logistics purposes
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is segmented into the first seal (applied to the sample receptacle) and the second seal (applied to the closed container). This segmentation allows the container to maintain its secure sealing structure while the external second seal can be applied to the outer surface, enabling both sample integrity and improved stackability for logistics.
Solution Approach 2:
The second seal is applied to the external surface of the closed container rather than directly to the sample receptacle. This dimensional separation allows the sealing function to be maintained while the external geometry of the container can be optimized for stacking and logistics without compromising the internal seal integrity.
4Reliability
If special handling instructions are provided for sample containers, then sample safety is ensured, but the cost associated with shipping biological samples increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container system is segmented into robust, standardized components that can be mass-produced and handled like conventional packages. The multiple seals provide inherent protection without requiring special handling instructions, reducing shipping costs while maintaining sample safety through the redundant sealing barriers.
Solution Approach 2:
The container design with its self-contained multiple seals and robust construction makes the package self-protecting. The seals automatically maintain sample integrity without requiring external monitoring or special handling procedures, thereby reducing shipping costs while ensuring sample safety.
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
The system provides robust, contamination-resistant storage with improved automation, tracking, and cost-effective logistics, ensuring sample integrity and viability during transportation and storage.
Implementation Method 1
The seal includes insulation to facilitate maintenance of a temperature required for the biological sample
Implementation Method 2
The seal is rigid and supports at least one of rapid warming for disinfecting and freezing for storage
Implementation Method 3
The sealed biological sample can be frozen to an ultra-low temperature
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method for preserving biological samples is disclosed. The illustrative method includes providing a biological sample for preparation and storage, and sealing the biological sample with a seal satisfying one or more criteria. The one or more criteria can be based on properties of the biological sample to ensure biological compatibility. The method includes processing the sealed biological sample for further sealing with another seal, the other seal being based on one or more other criteria.