Automated Vault Module
AssigneeAzenta US, Inc.
InventorsEtienne Croquette, Matteo F. Salvetti, Rhett Affleck
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Cryogenic storage system provides automated storage and retrieval of samples in a cryogenic environment, as well as automated transfer of individual samples between cryogenic environments. Stored samples are maintained under a cryogenic temperature threshold, while also enabling access to the samples. The samples may be organized and tracked by scanning a barcode of each sample. Embodiments may also comprise multiple storage vaults and provide for transfer of individual samples between the storage vaults, as well as between a storage vault and a removable cryogenic storage device.
Claims10
A lid for sealing a top portion of an insulated freezer, comprising:
- an upper metal skin extending to a top surface and external side surfaces of the lid, the external side surfaces extending to meet an external side wall of the insulated freezer;
- a lower metal plate extending to a bottom surface and internal side surfaces of the lid, at least a portion of the internal side surfaces contacting an inner side wall of the insulated freezer;
- and
- an insulating foam occupying a layer between the upper metal skin and the lower metal plate.
A cryogenic storage vault comprising:
- an insulated freezer;
- and
- at least one refrigerant coil positioned at a top portion internal to the insulated freezer, the at least one refrigerant coil configured to expel a refrigerant gas into the insulated freezer via a plurality of orifices.
A method of removing sample storage racks from a cryogenic storage freezer, the method comprising:
- given a cryogenic storage freezer containing a plurality of racks of sample trays;
- removing a lid of the cryogenic storage freezer;
- covering an open top end of the cryogenic storage freezer with an insulated shroud;
- and
- lifting at least a portion of the plurality of racks of sample trays into a volume enclosed by the insulated shroud.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.