Abstract:
A protein crystal growth assembly including a crystal growth cell and further including a cell body having a top side and a bottom side and a first aperture defined therethrough, the cell body having opposing first and second sides and a second aperture defined therethrough. A cell barrel is disposed within the cell body, the cell barrel defining a cavity alignable with the first aperture of the cell body, the cell barrel being rotatable within the second aperture. A reservoir is coupled to the bottom side of the cell body and a cap having a top side is disposed on the top side of the cell body.

Description:
This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 09/371,192, filed Aug. 10, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,447,726 which application(s) are incorporated herein by reference. 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/095,984, filed Aug. 10, 1998, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/139,551, filed Jun. 16, 1999. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for conducting experiments for growing a large number of protein crystals. 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     Due to advances in the protein crystal growth (PCG) field, it has become apparent that current experiment configurations no longer fully utilize the available experiment volume of space shuttle orbitor flight incubators. Additionally, conventional experimental hardware is not conducive to the long duration micro-gravity flights available aboard the International Space Station (ISS). In addition, conventional systems cannot freely utilize the limited space, power requirements and down-link flight telemetry systems available aboard the International Space Station or Space Shuttle Orbitor. 
     It can be seen that there is a need for a method and apparatus for protein crystal growth that can fully utilize the confined experiment volume available on space shuttle orbiters and space stations. 
     It can also be seen that there is a need for experimental hardware that is conducive to long duration micro-gravity flights aboard the International Space Station. 
     It can also be seen that there is a need to more freely utilize the limited space, power requirements and down-link flight telemetry systems available aboard the International Space Station or Space Shuttle Orbitor. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     To overcome the limitations of the related art described above, and to overcome other limitations that will become apparent upon reading and understanding the present specification, the present invention relates to an apparatus, system and method for conducting experiments for growing a large number of protein crystals designed to fit in a single locker space incubator. 
     One aspect of the invention provides a protein crystal growth assembly. The protein crystal growth assembly includes a crystal growth cell. The crystal growth cell further includes a cell body having a top side and a bottom side and a first aperture defined therethrough, the cell body having opposing first and second sides and a second aperture defined therethrough. A cell barrel is disposed within the cell body, the cell barrel defining a cavity alignable with the first aperture of the cell body, the cell barrel being rotatable within the second aperture. A reservoir is coupled to the bottom side of the cell body and a cap having a top side is disposed on the top side of the cell body. 
     Another aspect of the invention provides a protein crystal growth tray assembly. The protein crystal growth tray assembly includes a tray adapted to hold a protein crystal growth assembly; a securing mechanism holding the protein crystal growth assembly in place in the tray; an engaging mechanism provided on the tray, the engaging mechanism coupled with the protein crystal growth assembly; and a pivot assembly coupled to the engaging mechanism for moving the protein crystal growth assembly between two positions by operation of the pivot assembly. 
     A further aspect of invention provides a protein crystal growth incubator assembly. The protein crystal growth incubator assembly includes a housing having interior and exterior sides defining an internal storage compartment; and a stacked protein crystal growth tray configuration slideable into and out of the internal storage compartment, the stacked protein crystal growth tray configuration holding one or more protein crystal growth tray assemblies. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention provides a protein crystal growth command and monitoring system. The protein crystal growth command and monitoring system includes a chassis having interior and exterior sides, the chassis housing a video monitoring and translation mechanism; a protein crystal growth tray assembly having protein crystal growth assemblies disposed therein, the tray assembly arranged within the interior side of the chassis for video monitoring of the protein crystal growth cells; a video camera assembly for monitoring the protein crystal growth assemblies; a translation mechanism arranged on the chassis and coupled to the video camera assembly for positioning the video camera assembly above the protein crystal tray assembly; and a controller providing control signals to the translation mechanism for controlling the translation and positioning of the video camera. 
     Still another aspect of the invention provides, in a protein crystal growth assembly including a cell body having a top side and a bottom side and a first aperture defined therethrough, the cell body having opposed first and second sides and a second aperture defined therethrough; a cell barrel disposed within the cell body, the cell barrel defining a cavity alignable with the first aperture of the cell body; a reservoir coupled to the bottom side of the cell body, the cell barrel being rotatable within the second aperture; a protein cell insert disposed within the cavity of the cell barrel, the protein cell insert having an inner portion and an outer portion wherein the inner portion defines a well; and a cap having a top side disposed on the top side of the cell body. Another aspect of the invention further includes a method of growing protein crystals. The method includes rotating the cell barrel, to orient the growth cell in a fill/removal position; loading a premixed protein in the protein cell insert of a growth cell assembly; securing the premixed protein in the protein insert; rotating the cell barrel to a launch configuration position; at a predetermined time, rotating the cell barrel to a position to activate an experiment by placing the growth cell in a growth position; and at a second predetermined time, rotating the cell barrel to a position to deactivate the experiment by placing the growth cell in the fill/removal position. 
     These and various other features of novelty as well as advantages which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and form a part hereof. However, for a better understanding of the invention reference should be made to the drawings which form a further part hereof, and to accompanying descriptive matter, in which there are illustrated and described specific examples of an apparatus in accordance with the invention. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     Referring now to the drawings in which like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout, where: 
     FIG. 1 illustrates an example of one embodiment of a protein crystal growth cell assembly; 
     FIGS. 2A-D illustrate examples of various views and components of one embodiment of a protein crystal growth cell assembly; 
     FIGS. 3A-C illustrate examples of various embodiments of a single high Density protein crystal growth (HDPCG) tray assembly; 
     FIGS. 4A-D illustrate examples of various embodiments of a single HDPCG sample tray and stacked tray configurations; 
     FIGS. 5A-B illustrate examples of embodiments of a HDPCG apparatus installed in a Commercial Refrigeration Incubator Module-Modified (CRIM-M); 
     FIG. 6A illustrates one example of one embodiment of a method of activating/deactivating a tray and a commercial protein crystal growth (CPCG) actuator handle in its extended position engaging the pivot assembly of the tray; 
     FIG. 6B illustrates one example of one embodiment of a pivot assembly pivot rotation; 
     FIGS. 6C-D illustrate one example of one embodiment of an Activation/Deactivation tool and incubator assembly; 
     FIG. 7 illustrates one view of one embodiment of a high density protein crystal growth cell assembly; 
     FIG. 8 illustrates one view of one embodiment of a precipitant (PPT) reservoir and protein crystal growth cell assembly; 
     FIG. 9 illustrates one view of one embodiment of a protein crystal growth cell assembly illustrating an example of a high density access cap. 
     FIG. 10A illustrates a sectional view of one example of one embodiment of a protein crystal growth cell assembly in its fill/removal position; 
     FIG. 10B illustrates a sectional view of one example of embodiment of a single protein crystal growth cell assembly in its fill/removal position; 
     FIG. 11A illustrates a sectional view of one example of one embodiment of a protein crystal growth cell assembly in its growth position; 
     FIG. 11B illustrates a sectional view of one example of embodiment of a single protein crystal growth cell assembly in its growth position; 
     FIGS. 12A-C illustrate examples of various embodiments of a protein cell insert; 
     FIG. 13 illustrates one example of one embodiment of a protein crystal growth cell assembly in a launch configuration and direction of a corresponding launch G-Force vector; 
     FIG. 14 illustrates a block diagram of one example of one embodiment of a video command and monitoring system (VCMS) controller; 
     FIGS. 15A-B illustrate examples of embodiments of a VCMS chassis and a VCMS controller; 
     FIGS. 16A-F illustrate several views of one example of one embodiment of a translating video camera assembly and components; 
     FIG. 17 illustrates an example of a diagram of a video camera growth cell coverage area; 
     FIG. 18 illustrates one example of one embodiment of a VCMS chassis for a commercial protein crystal growth-V (CPCG-V) with hot wall removed for clarity; 
     FIG. 19 illustrates one example of one embodiment of a VCMS controller for CPCG-V with top panel removed; 
     FIGS. 20A-B illustrate examples embodiments of a stepper motor and encoder; 
     FIG. 21 illustrates one example context diagram of a VCMS; 
     FIG. 22 illustrates one example of VCMS Input Output Subsystem (IOS) Computer Software Component (CSC) diagram; 
     FIG. 23 illustrates one example of a VCMS IOS diagram; 
     FIG. 24 illustrates a functional block diagram of one example of one embodiment of a VCMS controller; 
     FIG. 25 illustrates a functional block diagram of one example of one embodiment of a VCMS controller; 
     FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate examples of flow diagrams of one embodiment of a HDPCG/VCMS operational scenario; 
     FIG. 28 illustrates one example of one embodiment of a code designation system; and 
     FIGS. 29A-B illustrate front and rear views, respectively, of one example of one embodiment of an express rack HDPCG/VCMS configuration. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     In the following description of the specific embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration the specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized as changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. 
     In one embodiment the present invention provides a Commercial Refrigerator Incubator Module-Modified (CRIM-M) for utilization in early flights of the Space Shuttle Orbitor. 
     In one embodiment the present invention provides a Commercial Refrigerator Incubator Module-Modified (CRIM-M) for utilization in early flights of the Space Shuttle Orbitor providing an internal storage compartment having a width of about 10 inches, a height of about 7 inches and a depth of about 17 inches for storing a stacked protein crystal growth tray configuration according to the present invention. 
     In another embodiment the present invention provides a next generation thermal carrier (NGTC), to be utilized when mid-deck modifications to the Space Shuttle Orbitor are completed. The high density protein crystal growth system (HDPCG) and video command and monitoring system (VCMS) of this embodiment are designed to complement each other. The experiment configurations for the HDPCG/VCMS will be compatible with the planned EXPRESS Rack available accommodations. Finally, the HDPCG growth samples will be easily accessible to crew members for harvesting, frozen storage, or other accommodations. 
     In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a new generation of PCG hardware in order to freely utilize the limited space, power requirements, down-link flight telemetry data, and other early ISS limitations. Growth chambers, in this embodiment will include additional design considerations such as: (1) fit inside the Next Generation Thermal Carrier; (2) hold a large quantity of samples; (3) allow vapor diffusion, batch, &amp; liquid to liquid (L/L) crystal growth methods together in one incubator; (4) make it easy to harvest crystals while in orbit; (5) provide video images of samples; (6) be automated from Earth based stations; (7) utilize conventional materials; (8) hold 10-50 micro-liter samples minimum; and (9) be accessible enough to cryogenically preserve the crystals while in orbit. 
     Other embodiments include easy transfer to a X-ray crystallography facility (XCF) Crystal Preparation Prime Item (CPPI) and sample volumes consistent with previous vapor diffusion apparatus (VDA) type experiments. 
     Although crystal adhesion to the sides of a well defined by an interior portion of a protein cell insert may present problems, one solution is to possibly coat the walls defining the well with an oil such as an immersion oil, for example, that may be used to reduce the chance of crystal adhesion to the side walls of the protein well if necessary. 
     The following is a list of some of the distinct aspects of the present invention, whereby: 
     1. Crystals may be viewed through an optically clear access cap without having to open the sealed container and exposing the fragile crystals to the ambient environment; 
     2. Up to 1008 cells may be accessed individually without risking harm to other cells in the immediate area; 
     3. Each individual cell is isolated from the environment by double “O-ring” containment to ensure sealing during in-orbit operations; 
     4. Individual protein inserts used in the cell barrel of the protein crystal growth assembly are designed to hold volumes consistent with ground based experiments; 
     5. The protein inserts may be made of molded LEXAN and can be modified individually to hold volumes ranging from 10 micro-liters (μl) to 40 micro-liters (μl); 
     6. The protein inserts are designed to facilitate easy harvesting by having a high surface finish wall and a 6 degree taper; 
     7. The protein inserts have a sharp pinning angle at the top to keep the protein solution from “creeping” up the sides in a micro-gravity environment; 
     8. The cell barrel used in the protein crystal growth assembly is designed to rotate in up to four different orientations. There are two launch configuration positions (depending on whether the Incubator is located in the Space Shuttle): a loading/harvesting position, and a growth position; 
     9. The cell barrel can be rotated in an orientation whereby the Space Shuttle launch “G-force” keeps the protein solution in the Protein Insert and will not let it “creep” out during the ascent; 
     10. The cell barrel can be rotated in an orientation that will be conducive to accomodating Space Shuttle landing loads, thus assuring that during the occasional “hard landing” the protein crystals and solution will stay intact; 
     11. The PPT reservoir used in the protein crystal growth assembly is designed to use a Chromex Barrier, which keeps the ½ milliliter reservoir solution from “creeping out” during Space Shuttle Launch and while in a micro-gravity environment; 
     12. growth cell blocks can be activated in smaller groups, e.g. groups of 21, instead of all at once. This is helpful if proteins have different growing cycles during a given mission; 
     13. The individual growth cell blocks can be removed from the sample tray very easily without disturbing the others. This is beneficial prior to the Space Shuttle Launch when a “Launch Scrub” requires only certain proteins to be reloaded; 
     14. The experimental apparatus can operate properly under one G-force; and 
     15. The experimental apparatus can operate during international Space Station operations, Space Shuttle operations, and other micro-gravity operations. 
     High Density Protein Crystal Growth (HDPCG) System Description 
     The HDPCG system is the first phase of a 3 phase program for commercial protein crystal growth (CPCG). This system will utilize the apparatus for the protein crystal growth mechanism for the program. The second phase comprises the HDPCG and the VCMS system. This system will be used to help evaluate protein crystal size, location and potential for X-ray data collection. The third phase of the program will be an X-ray crystallography facility (XCF). This XCF system will collect X-ray data sets on the protein samples grown in the HDPCG apparatus, which will be assessed and selected utilizing the VCMS system. 
     The HDPCG Experiment Assembly includes, for example, 1008 individual growth cells stored within sample trays. This apparatus is then placed into a thermal control facility in order to maintain the temperatures required by the experiment. The first generation HDPCG experiment assembly will utilize vapor diffusion as the process for protein crystal growth, with other methods of crystal growth to follow. 
     Turning now to FIG. 1, one embodiment of a protein crystal growth cell assembly  10  comprises a cell body  12 , cell barrel  14 , protein inserts  16 , PPT Reservoirs  18 , chromex barriers  20 , hex head access caps  22 , O-rings  24  and a Spur Gear  26 . The cell body  12  and cell barrel  14  are machined from clear Polysulfone P1700. A molded LEXAN version could be used to reduce cost and allow the experimenter the ability to keep the hardware after each mission. The cell barrel  14  is designed to rotate within the cell body  12  in order to activate/deactivate the experiment and to seal the protein within the assembly when in launch configuration  28 . As shown in FIG. 2A, this may accomplished by using the spur gear  26 , that may be manufactured from a synthetic resin such as Delrin, for example. During launch, the growth cell assembly  10  may experience a G-Force as indicated by G-Force vector  30 . The spur gear  26  is located on one end of the growth cell assembly  10  and it is designed to interface with a  26  gear  48  (FIG. 3A, for example a tooth pitch gear) on a sample tray assembly  43  (FIG.  3 A), so that the samples can be activated, or deactivated simultaneously. 
     Located within the cell barrel  14  are six protein inserts  16  where premixed proteins are loaded. As illustrated in FIG. 2B the Protein Insert  16  has a tapered well  32  and a 90° pinning angle  34  to restrict the protein drops from wicking out of the well while in a micro-gravity environment. Different size options can be provided to the experimenter, for example a 40 μl and a 20 μl version. 
     Illustrated in FIG. 2C is one embodiment of a hex head access cap  38  that is used to seal the protein environment from the outside. The hex head access caps  38  can be designed for cooperation with the XCF crystal preparation prime item (CPPI) robotics for remote access. Also included are double O-ring containment  36  to prevent leakage of the protein solution during the experiment. The protein inserts  16  and hex head access caps  38  can be made of optical grade LEXAN. This allows a level of clarity as needed for the VCMS during the second phase of the commercial protein crystal growth (CPCG) HDPCG program. 
     FIG. 2D illustrates embodiments of six PPT reservoirs  18  located on the cell body  12 . The PPT reservoirs  18  can be made from molded clear Polysulfone P1700. Each PPT reservoir  18  houses a chromex barrier  20  in order to contain the protein precipitant and is designed to provide easy access. Once the premixed proteins are loaded and secured, the cell barrel  14  is turned 90° for launch configuration  28 . 
     FIG. 3A illustrates one embodiment of a HDPCG sample tray assembly  43  with a hinged lid  244  in the open position. A HDPCG experiment assembly is capable of housing several, for example up to four, sample tray assemblies  43  at a time. The sample tray assemblies  43  are designed to secure the growth cell assemblies  10  during an experiment. Each sample tray assembly  43  may have a hinged lid  244 , which is used to lock the growth cell assemblies  10  into place and thus allows for the ease of loading and unloading samples. 
     Each sample tray assembly  43  is capable of securing 42 growth cell assemblies  10  (21 on each side). All 21 growth cell assemblies  10  on each side are activated/deactivated together by the push/pull movement of the geared rack  46  and  26  gear  48  that engages each individual spur gear  26  of the growth cell assemblies  10 . The growth cell assemblies  10  rest in tray  41 . This allows the total number of samples to be as much as 252 per tray  43  (for a total of 1008 on four trays) for the apparatus where previous University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) crystal growth experiments were limited to approximately 128. Pivot assembly  47  activates 21 growth cell assemblies per side. There are two pivot assemblies  47  per sample tray  43 . 
     FIGS. 3B and 4A illustrate one embodiment of a HDPCG Sample Assembly  43  with a lid assembly  244  in a closed position. The sample tray assembly  43  further includes captive screws  52  to secure the trays. There are 42 growth cell assemblies  10  per tray  41  at a weight of about 3.7 lbs. per tray with the weight of the tray  41  being about 1.8 lbs. The lid assembly  244  weighs about 0.57 lbs. 
     FIG. 3C illustrates another embodiment of a HDPCG sample tray assembly  42  with a hinged lid  44  in the open position. The HDPCG Experiment Assembly is capable of housing several, for example up to four, sample tray assemblies  42  at a time. The sample tray assemblies  42  are designed to secure the growth cell assemblies  10  during an experiment. Each sample tray assembly  42  has a hinged lid  44 , which is used to lock the growth cell assemblies  10  into place and thus allows for the ease of loading and unloading samples. 
     FIG. 4A is another view of one embodiment of a sample tray assembly  43  with its hinged lid  244  in a closed position. As illustrated in FIG. 4B one embodiment of a sample tray assembly  43  may be arranged in a stacked tray assembly configuration  250  designed to slide in and out of a protein crystal growth incubator assembly such as a Commercial Refrigeration Incubator Module-Modified  63  (CRIM-M) (FIG.  5 ). For easy access slides (for example of Delrin) are provided on either side of the inside portion of the CRIM-M, thus permitting removal of the sample tray assemblies  43  individually, for example for future transfer to the VCMS. The stacked tray configuration  250  further includes a hot side wall  254 , a rear stop  256 , an internal structure assembly  258  and cold side wall  260 . 
     In one specific example, there are four tray assemblies  43  in each CRIM-M  63  (FIG. 5) at 6.00 lbs. each for a total weight of 24.00 lbs. The internal structure assembly  258  weighs about 3.90 lbs. The total Experiment Weight is about 27.90 lbs. 
     FIG. 4C is yet another view of one embodiment of a sample tray assembly  42  with its hinged lid  44  in a closed position. As illustrated in FIG. 4D one embodiment of a sample tray assembly  42  may be arranged in a stacked tray assembly configuration  50  designed to slide in and out of a Commercial Refrigeration Incubator Module-Modified  63  (CRIM-M) (FIG.  5 ). The stacked tray configuration  50  further includes a hot side wall  54 , a rear stop  56 , an internal structure assembly  58  and cold side wall  60 . 
     Illustrated in FIG. 5A is one embodiment of a HDPCG stacked tray assembly Configuration  250  installed inside of a Commercial Refrigeration Incubator Module-Modified  63  (CRIM-M). The CRIM-M  63  is a single locker thermal control facility, similar to that used in early ISS Development. This apparatus fits into the CRIM-M  63  in a similar manner as previous crystal growth experiments, for example Vapor Diffusion Apparatus 2 (VDA-2), Commercial Vapor Diffusion Apparatus (CVDA) and Protein Crystallization Facility (PCF). The CRIM-M  63  provides a Crew Interface  264  required for setting the temperature profiles and monitoring the state of the system for the experiment. In addition, the CRIM-M  63  provides an internal storage compartment  65 , a retainer door assembly  266 , foam insulation  67  and door  70 . 
     Illustrated in FIG. 5B is another embodiment of a HDPCG stacked tray assembly configuration  50  installed in a Commercial Refrigeration Incubator Module  62  (C-RIM)  62 . The CRIM  62  provides a crew interface  64  required for setting the temperature profiles and monitoring the state of the system for the experiment. In addition, the CRIM  62  provides a retainer door assembly  66 . 
     As illustrated in FIG. 6A, one embodiment of a HDPCG experiment is easily activated, or deactivated by the use of the commercial protein crystal growth (CPCG) actuator handle  71 . The actuator handle  71  is retrieved from the CRIM-M Internal Storage Compartment  65  where it is collapsed for storage. In order to activate/deactivate the experiment the CRIM-M door  70  (not shown) must be opened and the foam insulation  67  (not shown) temporarily removed. This allows the retainer door  266  to be visible. There are eight slots  272  that are located on the retainer door  266 . Each slot  272  is labeled and contains a pivot  47  that extends through the slot so that the actuator handle  71  can be used to activate/deactivate the sample tray assembly  43 . This allows for the ease and flexibility of activating/deactivating the sample tray assemblies  43  individually. For clarity only one growth cell assembly  10  is shown. 
     The actuator handle  71  is extended for leverage by loosening the locking ring  73 . Once the actuator handle  71  is extended, the locking ring  73  is tightened. The actuator handle  71  is ready to engage and secure the pivot  47  by snapping the actuator&#39;s clevis around the pivot hole  272 . Once the pivot  47  is secured by the actuator handle  71 , it is then pushed to the left or right depending on the flight configuration. The actuator handle  71  is then removed by pulling the actuator handle  71  from the pivot  47 . This has activated/deactivated one side of the sample tray assembly  43 . The opposite side of the sample tray  43  is activated/deactivated in the same manner and this sequence is repeated for the remaining three trays. Also shown is a latch assembly  69 . 
     Once all of the sample tray assemblies  43  have been activated/deactivated, the locking ring  73  on the actuator handle  71  is loosened and pushed into the original position. The locking ring  73  is tightened to secure the handle  71 . The actuator handle  71  then is placed back into the CRIM-M Internal Storage compartment  65 . The experiment is activated/deactivated once all four trays have been activated/deactivated. For reference, in one specific example, 50° of rotation on the pivot assembly  47  will correspond to 0.851″ of rack  46  linear translation and 180° of rotation on the cell barrel  14  inside the growth cell assembly  10 . 
     The CPCG-HDPCG experiment assembly includes the CRIM-M  63  and the installed stacked HDPCG tray assembly configuration  250 . The Space Shuttle Orbiter Middeck can be used as the payload carrier for this apparatus. A payload mounting panel (PMP) will be used to mount the experiment locker into the payload carrier location. This locker configuration may be designed to be a cabin air breather. Payloads that are located in the Orbitor Middeck may be in the following areas: (a) aft surface of wire trays of Avionics Bays  1  and  2 , or (b) forward surface of wire trays of Avionics Bay  3 A. Of course, the availability of specific locations for payload use may be subject to the amount of ducted and non-ducted air cooling, power required by the individual middeck payloads, mission profile and its length, the size of the Orbitor crew, and amount of crew equipment to be stowed in standard stowage lockers at these locations. 
     FIG. 6B illustrates the actuator handle  71  at various positions while in the process of activating/deactivating an experiment. As the actuator handle  71  is rotated, the pivot assembly  47  rotates to activate/deactivate the experiment. 
     As illustrated in FIG. 6A the HDPCG experiment is easily activated, or deactivated by the use of a Activation/Deactivation Handle  68 . The handle  68  can be retrieved from possible stowage within the C-RIM  62  with installed HDPCG apparatus, as shown in FIG.  6 B. In order to activate/deactivate the experiment the C-RIM door  70  must be opened. This allows the retainer door  66  to be visible. There are 12 slots  72  that are accessible on the retainer door  66 . Each slot corresponds to a tray  42  located within the HDPCG apparatus. This allows for the ease and flexibility of activating/deactivating a tray  42  individually. 
     FIG. 6C illustrates another embodiment of an activation/deactivation handle  68 . In order to activate the tray  42  the handle  68  is inserted through one of the slots  72 . The handle  68  is then used to engage a pin (not shown) on the rack with a slot  74 . The handle  68  has a pivot  76  and pivots on the retainer door  66  where it can be rotated 60° clockwise (CW) to activate the sample tray  42 . The handle  68  will activate both sides of the sample tray  42 , one side at a time. The opposite side of the sample tray  42  is then activated by removing the handle  68  and rotating it 180°. Once again the handle  68  is inserted through two of the slots  72  in order to activate the opposite side of the sample tray  42 . Once the pin  78  is engaged the handle is rotated 60° counterclockwise (CCW). This completes the activation sequence for the sample tray  42 . 
     FIG. 6D illustrates the handle  68  in operation. The handle  68  is first retrieved from stowage, then the C-RIM door  70  is opened and the retainer door  66  becomes visible. The handle  68  is inserted through the slots  72  on the retainer door  66  corresponding to the sample tray  42  that is to be deactivated. Once the pin (not shown) on the rack is engaged, the handle  68  is rotated 120° CCW to deactivate. The opposite side of the sample tray  42  is then deactivated by removing the handle  68  and rotating it 180°. Once the pin  78  on the rack is engaged, the handle is rotated 120° CW to deactivate the opposite side of the sample tray  42 . This completes the deactivation sequence for the sample tray  42 . 
     FIG. 7 illustrates another view of one embodiment of a High Density Protein Crystal Growth growth cell assembly  10 . 
     FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a PPT reservoir  18  of the growth cell assembly  10 , made from Molded Clear Polysulfone P1700 and, for example having a fluid capacity of ½ milliliters. The PPT reservoir  40  houses a CHROMEX barrier to contain the reservoir solution. CHROMEX is one example of a ultra high molecular weight polyethylene material. 
     FIG. 9 illustrates another view of one embodiment of a growth cell assembly  10  illustrating the hd access cap  38  which is designed in conjunction with the XCF CPPI for remote access by means of the hex head cap. Access to the protein insert is obtained by rotating the access cap  38  45 degrees. The O-rings reside in the containment  36 . The protein insert  16  can be removed from the back without having to disassemble the entire block. Both the access cap  38  and protein insert  16  can be molded from optical grade LEXAN for clarity. 
     FIG. 10A illustrates a sectional view of one embodiment of a growth cell assembly  10  in its fill/removal position. Note the position of the protein insert  16 . 
     FIG. 10B illustrates a sectional view of one embodiment of a single growth cell assembly  210  in its fill/removal position. Note the position of the protein insert  216 . The single growth cell assembly  210  comprises the cell body  212 , the cell barrel  214 , protein insert  216 , PPT reservoir  218 , CHROMEX barrier  220 , hex head access caps  222 , O-ring  224  and a spur gear  226 . 
     FIG. 11A illustrates a sectional view of one embodiment of a growth cell assembly  10  in its growth position. Note that the position of the protein insert  16  is opposite to that shown in FIG.  10 A. 
     FIG. 11B illustrates a sectional view of one embodiment of a single growth cell assembly  210  in its growth position. Note that the position of the protein insert  216  is opposite to that shown in FIG.  10 A. 
     FIGS. 12A-C illustrate various embodiments of a protein insert  16  produced by LIGHTWAVE PRODUCTS. The protein insert  16  holds up to 50 microliters, is made for example of optical grade LEXAN and includes a tapered well  32  as determined by the KC-135 zero gravity test plane and is available in an optional molded version. The modified protein inserts  16 ′ have a volume capacity of 20 microliters or less. Pinning edge  34  will restrict drops from wicking up the walls while in micro-gravity. 
     FIG. 13 illustrates one embodiment of a growth cell assembly  10  in its launch configuration and corresponding launch G-Force vector  30 . 
     Video Command and Monitoring System (VCMS) System Description 
     As part of the overall system, the present invention provides a Video Command and Monitoring System (VCMS) in FIG. 14 that is part of the second phase of a three phase program for commercial protein crystal growth (CPCG). The VCMS system will be used to evaluate protein crystal quality, size, location within HDPCG (CPCG-H) tray, and the potential for X-ray data collection. 
     FIG. 15A illustrates one embodiment of a CPCG payload complement comprising three components: a HDPCG stacked tray assembly  43  (CPCG-H), a VCMS—video &amp; translation chassis  61  (CPCG-V) and a VCMS—controller  107  (CPCG-C). The HDPCG tray assembly  43  and VCMS  61  payloads will reside in thermal carriers. 
     FIG. 15B illustrates another embodiment of a the VCMS chassis  106  that houses the video camera assembly  118  and the HDPCG tray assembly  42  during experiments. The chassis  106  further includes an X-Y stage with the mounted video camera assembly  108 , the X-Y stage including an X-stage stepper motor  112  and a Y-stage stepper motor  114 . The X-Y stage assembly  108  indexes a translating camera assembly  118  utilizing a Y stage stepper motor  114  and an X stage stepper motor  112 . The X and Y stage stepper motors  112 ,  114 , respectively, are interfaced with the VCMS controller  84  via controller connectors  116 . The system further provides flexible cable routing that interfaces with a flex cable zero insertion force (ZIF) connector  110 . 
     FIGS. 16A-F illustrate embodiments of the translating camera assembly  118 . Digitized images are down-linked to ground support equipment (GSE) for the scientists to observe. The video camera assembly  118  comprises a lens assembly  132 , light ring  134 , video camera electronics  126 , mounting assembly  124 , a charge coupled device (CCD) head  128  and connectors for printed circuit board (PCB)  130 . One embodiment of how a camera is assembled is shown in FIG.  16 B. The lens assembly  132  provides the camera with a fixed focus image of the growth cell  10 . The light ring  134  including 8 light emitting diodes  133  (LEDs) is attached to the base of the lens assembly  132  to the lens body  131  to provide adequate illumination during video frame acquisition. 
     As illustrated in FIGS. 16A-B the translating video camera assembly  118  comprises a mounting assembly  124  for mounting the camera assembly  118  to the VCMS chassis  61  X-Y stage. The camera assembly  118  further includes a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) head  128  and connectors for printed circuit board (PCB)  130 . The camera utilized in the preferred embodiment of the present invention is a Sony CCB-GC7YC color card camera detachable head with ⅓″ CCD 768×494 CCD elements integral DC/DC converter, Y/C and composite outputs, 470 TV lines and 5 Lux sensitivity at F1.2. 
     The camera assembly  118  is mounted to the stage provided by the VCMS chassis  61  where it can translate in the X and Y directions, via mounting assembly  124 . This translation allows for flexibility in viewing individual HDPCG growth cells  10  within the designated cell coverage area  137  (FIG.  17 ). In one embodiment, a video camera growth cell  10  coverage area  137  is about 68% of the top side HDPCG tray  43 . The video camera provides a high-resolution, color, Y/C signal to the controller&#39;s  107  electronic video capture hardware. 
     FIG. 16C illustrates the cell illumination light ring  134  attached to base of the lens. The light ring  134  including the eight sleeve mounted concentric white LED&#39;s  133  are manufactured by Sylvania Lighting International model number CMD1224WC. 
     As illustrated in FIG. 16D the lens assembly  132  provides the camera with a fixed focus image of the growth cell. On the base of the lens there is a light ring that provides illumination during the video process. The assembly  132  is mounted to the X-Y stage provided by the chassis  61  where it is capable of translating in the X and Y directions. This adds the flexibility of viewing individual HDPCG growth cells within the designated cell coverage area (FIG.  17 ). An example of a lens assembly  132  is one custom fabricated by Optem International and includes a CS mount assembly  134 , Edmund Scientific A45,207 lens  139  that is achromatic coated with a ¼ Wave MgF 2  @550 nm, a 5 mm diameter and 15 mm focal length, and a Rolyn A32,623 Precision iris diaphragm including a 8.0-0.7 mm aperture and 8 blade blued spring steel. 
     Flexible circuits  120  and  122  illustrated in FIGS. 16E and 16F, respectively, reduce the overall size, weight and assembly costs of the design. Further, the flexible circuits  120 ,  122  increase the system reliability, ease design (packaging in 3-dimensions), are mechanically robust and provide excellent electrical properties, for example, low strip resistance and small channel-channel capacitance. 
     As illustrated in FIG. 17, the VCMS System is capable of translating the video camera assembly  118  and taking periodic “snap shots” of indicated growth cells within an area of camera coverage  137  bounded by perimeter  141 . 
     As illustrated in FIG. 18, one embodiment of a VCMS chassis  61  is the structure designed to house the video camera assembly  118  and the HDPCG tray assembly  43  during an experiment. The chassis  61  includes the X-Y stage with the mounted camera assembly  118 , X-stage motor/encoder  112 , Y-stage motor/encoder  114 , controller connector  116 , flex cable connectors  110  linking the moving stages to the chassis, and installed HDPCG tray assembly  43 . A sensor detects the presence of sample trays. This interlock is then used in the system software routines. Each end of the camera stage axes also has limit switches used in the software control routines. 
     As illustrated in FIG. 19, one embodiment of a controller  107  is suitable for residing in an International Sub-rack Interface Standard Drawer (ISIS)  147 . The VCMS  61  payload will include one Middeck Locker Equivalent (MLEs) containing hardware for protein crystal growth experiment monitoring (CPCG-V) and one experiment ISIS Drawer  147  (CPCG-C) containing control electronics  143 . The VCMS is used in conjunction with the HDPCG flight assembly. The VCMS will occupy one HDPCG tray at a given time, but the VCMS has the versatility of interchanging HDPCG Trays whenever scheduled or requested. 
     In one embodiment, a VCMS controller  107  contains the system electronics  143 . The controller has five primary functions that include: translation, video capture, disk storage, health and status, and communications. The controller  107  may be located in a four-panel unit (4PU) EXPRESS Rack ISIS drawer  147 . The components are mounted to the modified baseplate of the drawer  147 . The controller  107  will utilize the EXPRESS Rack internal air volume to reject heat from the VCMS controller  107 . The ISIS drawer  146  is outfitted with a fan and appropriate air intake ventilation holes  149  to accomplish this heat rejection through the air exhaust vent  145 . The VCMS controller  107  is monitored by both the software and hardware components. The CPCG-C system temperature(s) and system current(s) are monitored to determine the state of the electronics. Likewise, the hardware monitors vital system indicators to determine and control the state of the system. 
     The following hardware sub-assemblies make up the VCMS controller. An Intel 80486-based Single Board Computer (SBC) is the central processing unit. Attached to the SBC&#39;s PC/ 104  bus are a stepper motor controller card, an encoder feedback card, a video capture card, an analog to digital input output card, a Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) solid state memory card, hard disk drive, and two DC/DC converter cards. 
     The VCMS controller  107  performs external communications through an Ethernet interface in the rear of the ISIS drawer  147 . VCMS Health and Status (H&amp;S) and all the down-link data passes through this interface. The Controller  107  is linked to the VCMS chassis  61  through a front panel cable. Secondary electrical supply voltages, control signals, and high-resolution Y/C video signals are routed through this cable. 
     The VCMS payload software will provide control of all phases of the experiment and requires limited crew involvement. The crew involvement will be required during initial experiment setup and activation, periodic status monitoring, experiment deactivation, and off-nominal activities. The VCMS payload software contains an applicable program interface to initiate, control, and monitor data acquisition from the experiment. Additionally, the VCMS payload software will manage data flow between the VCMS payload and the external interfaces. The major functions of the VCMS payload control software may include the following: 
     1. Provides for video data capture and storage of the payload; 
     2. Stores experiment data to disk; 
     3. Communicates with external computers; 
     4. Monitors system health/status; 
     5. Implements the periodic scan profiles for the HDPCG growth cells based upon the mask file; 
     6. Controls camera positioning system; 
     7. Monitors hardware items; and 
     8. Buffers experiment data. 
     FIGS. 29A-B illustrate one embodiment of an express rack HDPCG/VCMS configuration. The HDPCG  250 , VCMS chassis  61  and VCMS controller  107  experiment assemblies will utilize an EXPRESS Rack  150  (FIG. 29) in one Configuration. The thermal carriers for HDPCG and VCMS will utilize +28V power and RS 422  communications on the rack front view (FIG.  29 A). The cable from the VCMS controller  107  to the VCMS chassis  61  is illustrated in the front view of FIG.  29 A. There are several connections located within the back of the EXPRESS rack  150 . The ISIS drawer +28V power and Ethernet connections from the EXPRESS Rack  150  are routed as illustrated in the back view of FIG.  29 B. 
     FIG. 14 illustrates one embodiment of a block diagram of the VCMS controller  107  which contains the electronics for the system. The controller  107  may include five primary functions such as translation, illumination, video capture, disk storage and communications. It is located in an EXPRESS Rack ISIS drawer  147  where it is mounted to a modified base-plate. It utilizes the EXPRESS ISIS avionics air cooling loop to reject heat from the VCMS controller  107 . 
     The HDPCG  43  and VCMS  61  experiment assemblies can utilize the EXPRESS Rack  150 . The HDPCG  43  and VCMS  61  experiment assemblies utilize a host power supply  82  and the RS 422  connections on the front of the rack. There is also a chassis connection to the VCMS  61  from the ISIS drawer and several connections that are located on the back of the rack. These are illustrated in FIGS. 29A-B. The ISIS drawer  147  utilizes a +28 V power source, Ethernet and analog (to SSPCM) connections from the EXPRESS rack. 
     The VCMS controller  107  is a self contained electronics box mounted in a 4 panel unit (PU) EXPRESS ISIS drawer  147 . Heat is rejected via EXPRESS ISIS avionics air loop portion of the internal cooling loop  88 . VCMS controller  84  further includes a small computer systems interface (SCSI)  86  drive for local electronic mass data storage and a stackable PC/ 104  expansion bus  90 . The VCMS controller  107  communicates with peripheral devices via Ethernet communications on Ethernet bus  104  with the EXPRESS Rack interface controller  96  (RIC) and the EXPRESS Rack crew interface port (CIP)  102 . The controller  107  interfaces with an RS 422  communications interface  100  with thermal carrier. RS 232  communications  94  is provided between the controller  84  and the GSE or Shuttle PGSC  92 . It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the communications system may communicate digitized video images from a space station to a ground based station and form one ground based station to another ground based station. 
     The PC/ 104  bus  90  may be utilized for all computer boards such as Microprocessor (Ampro Computers, Inc.), Video Capture (Ajeco Oy, Inc.), Stepper Motor Controller (Technology 80, Inc.), Encoder Controller (Technology 80, Inc.), Stepper Motor Driver (UAB in-house design), DC-DC Converter (Tri-M Systems, Inc.) and Mass Storage (Seagate Technology, Inc.). 
     The microprocessor module (Ampro Littleboard 4681) includes an Intel 80486DX4 100 MHz CPU and 32 MB Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM). The microprocessor module is highly integrated and further includes four buffered serial ports, an Ethernet LAN interface and an SCSI-II bus interface. The microprocessor module also includes embedded features such as: bootable solid state disk support, watchdog timer and powerfail non-maskable interrupt (NMI), extended temperature operation, advanced power management functions and locking I/O connectors. 
     The video capture unit, Ajeco ANDI-FG, includes a Motorola 27 MHz DSP56001A digital signal processor, three 75 Ω software selectable video inputs, 640×525 digital resolution in NTSC, Y/C and composite video, eight bit A/D converter, 29.5 MHz sampling, JPEG format image upload and programming libraries in “C.” 
     The Stepper Motor Controller may be a Tech 80 Model 5936, which includes three axes of intelligent control, directional velocity profiling, home, positive limit, and general purpose switch inputs and software-accessible functions that further include number of steps, low speed rate, high speed rate, acceleration/deceleration rate and amp-down point. 
     The Encoder Controller, a Tech 80 Model 5612, includes four incremental quadrature encoder inputs, three stage digital filter, software selectable filter clock 165.25 kHz to 10 MHz, 24-bit counter for each encoder and maskable PC/ 104  bus interrupt generation. 
     The Voltage Mode Stepper Motor Driver is PC/ 104  bus compatible and amplifies TTL level signals from the stepper controller 12 VDC output, motor direction and motor speed. The driver further controls the camera illumination LED on/off switching by LED fusing and LED current limiting. 
     The DC-DC converter, a Tri-M Systems HE104-512-TAC, includes up to 50 W filtered power for VCMS electrical systems, PC/ 104  compatible design with active bus signal termination, load dump and transient noise suppression on input, logic level remote shutdown, +5 VDC @10 A output, +12 VDC @ 2 A output, 6-40 VDC input, &lt;20 mVpp ripple, &lt;60 mV load regulation, &lt;40 mV line regulation and up to 95% efficiency. 
     The mass storage unit, a Seagate Barracuda 9.1 Giga Byte model series that has been utilized in several NASA flights, includes 10 disks, 20 magneto resistive heads, 20 MB/sec maximum transfer rate, 512 kB multisegmented cache, 8.0/9.5 msec average seek, R/W, 4.17 msec average latency, 7,200 rpm spindle speed, 8-bit UltraSCSI interface, embedded servo control and has a 1,000,000 Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF). 
     One embodiment of a stepper motor  114  as illustrated in FIG. 20A is a MicroMo Stepping Gearmotor AM1524 that includes 24 steps per revolution &gt;15 degree step angle, voltage mode motor, 12 VDC operation, 6 mNn (0.85 oz-in.) holding torque, 3.71:1 reduction gear (x-axis). 
     One embodiment of an encoder  135  as illustrated in FIG. 20B is a MicroMo Series HE that includes a magnetic mechanism, square wave output, TTL/CMOS output, 2 channels and 90 degree phase shift. 
     Nominal and reduced system power required by the system are illustrated in Table 1, as follows: 
     
       
         
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                 Nominal Power, 
                 Reduced Power, 
               
               
                 Device 
                 W 
                 W 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 LB 4861 CPU 
                 13 
                 2.6 
               
               
                 ANDI-FG VIDEO CAPTURE 
                 2.55 
                 1.2 
               
               
                 5936 STEPPER 
                 3.5 
                 1.8 
               
               
                 CONTROLLER 
               
               
                 5912 ENCODER 
                 0.005 
                 NA 
               
               
                 CONTROLLER 
               
               
                 TRANSLATION AMP. (ea.) 
                 0.348 
                 NA 
               
               
                 HE104 DC/DC CONVERTER 
                 0.056 
                 NA 
               
               
                 BARRACUDA HARD 
                 12.4 
                 4   
               
               
                 DRIVE 
               
               
                 ENCODER (ea.) 
                 0.025 
                 NA 
               
               
                 STEPPER MOTORS (ea.) 
                 0.174 
                 NA/OFF 
               
               
                 CAMERA/LIGHTING 
                 0.5 
                 NA 
               
               
                 CONTROL 
               
               
                 VIDEO CAMERA 
                 2.16 
                 NA/OFF 
               
               
                 LIGHTING (ea.) 
                 0.125 
                 NA/OFF 
               
               
                 TOTAL 
                 34.8 
                 10.2  
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     The VCMS controller  107  functions can be grouped into five distinct categories including translation, illumination, video capture, disk storage and communication. Each category enables varying levels of power management though software and hardware functions. 
     FIG. 21 illustrates one embodiment of a VCMS context diagram. 
     FIG. 22 illustrates one embodiment of a VCMS IOS CSC diagram. 
     FIG. 23 illustrates one embodiment of a VCMS IOS. 
     FIG. 24 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a VCMS controller. 
     FIG. 25 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a VCMS controller. 
     FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate a flow diagram of one embodiment of a HDPCG/VCMS Operational Scenario. 
     The operational scenario is divided in five separate tasks follows: 
     Task I (Protein Candidate Database) 
     A database where protein candidates can be entered by the scientist. This database may include: protein name, co-investigator, number of samples, specifics such as volume size, growth rates and mission sequence and timeline. 
     Task II (Flight Protein Database) 
     The final flight configuration. When a growth cell block is completely full and ready to be placed into the tray, a bar code label is placed on the block. The bar code should reference a database which is generated above, but in addition includes: location of sample, actual percent concentrations and volumes loaded, time of loading, protein code written on cap of cell, and comment lines. 
     Task III (Command and Control of VCMS) 
     The VCMS will perform the following operations while on ISS: Automatically scan all the viewable cells on a given tray twice daily and take a “snap shot”; store the digitized “snap shot” until it can be downlinked; place the images into a name specific file that can be interpreted on the ground as being a specific protein, and store the image with the file generated with Task I; move to a particular position and take a “snap shot” when given a command from the ground or by a crew member; capture the image and compress it using the best compression algorithms available possible with the given hardware; transfer health and status data from the NGTC to the EXPRESS Rack and eventually attach temperature data with the images for the database; and encryption of images before placing into the packet of data to be down-linked. 
     Task IV (Ground Based Operations) 
     The ground based system will have to do the following: receive the data packet, for example from the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) and direct the images to their particular file; manage the large amount of data that will be received and place it on some type of media for transfer back to the Co-Investigators; and send requests to the MSFC (off nominal operations). 
     Task V (Post Flight Evaluations) 
     The post flight database will include information taken from the previous tasks and include: temperature data of the entire mission; digitized post flight analysis images, flight duration time; and comments during analysis. 
     FIG. 28 illustrates one embodiment of a code designation system. 
     The foregoing description of the specific embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. It is intended that the scope of the invention be limited not with this description, but rather by the claims appended hereto.