Thermal Transfer Stand for Stable Lab Cooling on Ice Baths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for temperature control in biotechnical laboratories using ice or water baths are unstable, prone to temperature fluctuations, and require frequent ice replenishment, leading to issues with device stability and even temperature maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A portable temperature transfer device with a thermo-conductive base and stage allows for stable placement of laboratory devices, using materials like aluminum or copper for efficient thermal energy transfer, preventing submersion and maintaining temperature equilibrium with thermal mediums like ice or water.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If direct contact with ice or water is used to control temperature, then thermal contact is achieved, but device stability deteriorates due to melting ice forming slurry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a thermally conductive stand as an intermediary component between the ice/water thermal medium and the laboratory device. The stand's base contacts the thermal medium while its top surface supports the device, preventing direct contact between the device and melting ice slurry. This mediator maintains thermal contact through the conductive material while preserving device stability.
2Temperature
If ice is used for temperature control, then cooling is achieved, but temperature stability worsens as ice melts and warms the device
Solution Approach 1:
The thermally conductive stand acts as a stable intermediary that maintains consistent thermal contact with the ice medium. Its rigid structure and thermal conductivity ensure reliable heat transfer from the ice to the device without the temperature fluctuations caused by direct device contact with melting ice.
3Temperature
If prolonged contact with melting ice is used, then thermal equilibrium is approached, but device submersion occurs in ice slurry
Solution Approach 1:
The stand serves as a stable platform that elevates the device above the melting ice slurry level. The base of the stand remains in thermal contact with the ice for heat transfer, while the device rests on the stand's stable top surface, preventing submersion in the slurry.
4Temperature
If water bath is used for temperature control, then thermal contact is achieved, but device stability worsens due to splashing and turbulence
Solution Approach 1:
The thermally conductive stand provides a stable, non-submerged platform for the device while maintaining thermal contact with the water bath through its base. This eliminates the splashing and turbulence problems associated with direct device contact with moving water.
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 device provides a stable and level surface for temperature-sensitive materials, maintaining temperature control for extended periods without frequent ice replenishment, as demonstrated by an aluminum block maintaining below 4°C for over 10 hours, and prevents device instability during use.
Implementation Method 1
The portable temperature transfer device comprises a thermo conductive material to allow rapid transfer of thermal energy between the temperature control device and the laboratory device
Data Source
AI summary
A portable temperature transfer stand for holding thermo-conductive laboratory devices transferring thermal energy to laboratory devices is provided as well as its methods of use. The temperature transfer stand comprises at least one supporting structure (foot) and a stable stage, both comprising a thermal conductive material. The supporting structure is in direct contact with the stage which is in direct contact with a laboratory device.