Patent ID: 6688123
Filing Date: 2004-02-10
Classification: F25B,F25D,G01N

Abstract:
An automated storage and retrieval apparatus for storing containers at ultra low temperatures, said apparatus comprising:a freezer compartment, said freezer compartment having a side wall; a storage carousel disposed inside said freezer compartment for holding the containers; a climate-controlled chamber disposed on said side wall; a climate system for controlling the climate of said chamber; an interchange mechanism disposed inside said storage carousel configured to: interchange a container between said interchange mechanism and said climate-controlled chamber while in a chamber exchange position, and interchange a container between said interchange mechanism and said carousel while in a carousel exchange position; and said chamber being configured to: isolate the container from said interchange mechanism as container is deposited from the exterior or placed into the exterior, and isolate the container from the exterior as container is exchanged between said chamber and said interchange mechanism.