EP1916492A1 - Control system for a cryopreservation facility - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves remotely making a check upon receiving data representative of a cryogenic fluid feed line (2), a valve, a storage tank, an ambient condition in a room (A), specimens, or a container (3) or refrigerator (4) to verify state of a cryogenic fluid e.g. liquid nitorgen, or electrical supply for the container/refrigerator, state of an opening/closing unit of the container/refrigerator, or temperature within the container/refrigerator. The data are associated with the specimens, and stored for being associated with the specimens. An independent claim is also included for a system for checking and controlling a cryopreservation installation.

Description

The subject of the present invention relates to a method and a system for controlling and managing, in particular at a distance, a plant for cryopreservation of samples or biological or similar materials.

A cryopreservation plant is an installation typically having one or more holding vessels or tanks, and / or one or more mechanical refrigerators, in which one or more are stored in a cooling atmosphere obtained with a cryogenic fluid, such as liquid nitrogen or similar, or by means of a mechanical system, for example by means of mechanical freezers or refrigerators with compressors or other technology, samples or biological products, such as cells, plasma, tissues, organs or other biological, chemical or biochemical and the like.

The vessel or vessel is supplied with cryogenic fluid from, via a suitable line or supply line, a reservoir containing a cryogenic fluid, for example liquid nitrogen. Usually, one or a plurality of containers is, moreover, disposed in a closed room, in which only the personnel and / or authorized operators have access, including personnel with a key or an electronic access card. (badge) that allows them to enter this room.

In addition, in the cryopreservation room, there are often present sensors or sensors of ambient conditions, such as temperature, humidity, etc., able to determine whether the conditions prevailing in the room correspond to parameters prefixed so as to have an operation. equipment and to ensure the safety of operators and samples or biological products.

In such an installation are, moreover, usually present alarm instruments, such as flashing lights, audible alarms or the like, which are activated or which are activated automatically when a danger situation is detected, for example linked to a bad one. malfunction of a container, or the detection of incorrect or non-compliant ambient parameters.

However, monitoring the ambient conditions or the accesses to the room is clearly insufficient to be able to guarantee an optimal conservation of the preserved samples.

There is therefore a real need to be able to not only monitor the cryopreservation facilities but also and above all to be able to act immediately in response to the detection of a non-compliant data item or parameter so as to allow optimum conservation of the samples.

Moreover, the current systems do not make it possible to know the complete history of a given sample, that is to say to have a maximum of information relating to the life of this sample.

The object of the present invention is therefore to provide an improved method and control system of an installation for cryopreservation of samples or other similar biological products.

In particular, an object of the invention is to propose such a control system which takes into account the different organs or devices for controlling the cryogenic conservation installations, which are currently independent of each other

Another aim is to propose a method and a control system of the aforementioned type which allow a collection and storage of a plurality of data from the various organs or controlled elements of the installation, and a management of these data in automatic mode. to generate an alarm adapted to the gravity of the situation and possibly corrective measures in the installation, when these data do not correspond to prefixed parameters.

Another aim is to carry out the control and management of the installation with a high level of security, from the point of view of the communication of the data recorded during the control, the resistance of said control devices to internal malfunctions and the resistance of said storage facility control devices to aggressive agents such as dust, gas or moisture.

Another purpose is to provide a high security of data storage, including in case of widespread damage of the installation.

Another aim is to propose a method and a control system of the aforementioned type which allow a remote control and / or local control of the cryopreservation installation via several communication systems, such as personal computer PC, cell phones, palm devices or the like.

Another aim is to propose a method that crosses all the data relating to the cryopreservation facility to check the quality of the conservation of samples or biological products.

Another aim is to propose a control system of the type raised which can be extended to all the apparatus and premises inherent to the cryopreservation installation.

1. a) on opère un contrôle, de préférence à distance, avec recueil d'une ou plusieurs données issues et/ou représentatives :
   • d'au moins un récipient et/ou réfrigérateur contenant les échantillons de manière à vérifier l'état du fluide cryogénique qui y est présent ou de l'alimentation électrique dudit récipient et/ou réfrigérateur et/ou l'état du moyen d'ouverture/fermeture dudit récipient et/ou réfrigérateur, ou la température régnant dans ledit récipient et/ou réfrigérateur,
   • d'une ligne d'alimentation de fluide cryogénique reliant au moins un réservoir à au moins un récipient et/ou réfrigérateur, d'au moins une vanne agencée sur ladite ligne d'alimentation, et/ou dudit réservoir contenant le fluide cryogénique, et/ou
   • d'au moins une condition ambiante régnant dans le local, et/ou
   • des échantillons conservés,
2. b) on génère une alarme et/ou une information d'anomalie d'incident lorsqu'au moins un desdits contrôles de l'étape a) détermine une anomalie ou une différence par rapport à un état préfixé.

All or part of these goals are achieved by a method of control and management of a cryopreservation facility comprising at least one container and / or refrigerator, in which are arranged samples to be stored and stored in a refrigerated atmosphere, the container and / or refrigerator being disposed in at least one room, characterized in that:

1. a) a control is carried out, preferably remotely, with the collection of one or more data derived and / or representative:
   • at least one container and / or refrigerator containing the samples so as to check the state of the cryogenic fluid that is present therein or the electrical supply of said container and / or refrigerator and / or the state of the opening means closing said container and / or refrigerator, or the temperature in said container and / or refrigerator,
   • a cryogenic fluid supply line connecting at least one tank to at least one container and / or refrigerator, at least one valve arranged on said supply line, and / or said tank containing the cryogenic fluid, and /or
   • at least one ambient condition prevailing in the room, and / or
   • preserved samples,
2. b) generating an alarm and / or incident anomaly information when at least one of said controls of step a) determines an anomaly or a difference from a prefixed state.

• la ou les données recueillies sont envoyées à un organe de l'installation de gestion permettant de déterminer l'état de fonctionnement de l'installation et intervenir à distance en cas de dysfonctionnement.
• au moins une partie des données recueillies à l'étape a) sont associées à un ou plusieurs échantillons et mémorisées de manière associée auxdits échantillons. Ceci permet de connaître l'historisque de chaque échantillon considéré.
• on opère un relevé, de préférence en continu, de l'état d'ouverture ou de fermeture d'au moins une vanne, en particulier une électrovanne, ou d'un moyen d'ouverture/fermeture du récipient et/ou du réfrigérateur, en particulier du couvercle ou de la porte de chaque récipient ou réfrigérateur.
• les conditions ambiantes régnant dans le local qui sont contrôlées à l'étape a) sont choisies parmi le pourcentage d'oxygène dans l'air du local, la température dans le local, la pression dans le local et l'humidité du local, de préférence ledit contrôle est opéré de manière à détecter une fuite de fluide cryogénique d'une des récipients.
• il est prévu l'activation d'une alarme lorsqu'au moins l'une des données contrôlées sort d'un intervalle de valeurs préfixées, de préférence ladite alarme est activée à distance par l'organe de gestion à distance de l'installation. L'alarme peut être une alerte sonore ou visuelle, ou encore peut être une alerte envoyée à l'opérateur de l'installation par un moyen de communication approprié, en particulier un message envoyé sur son téléphone portable, par exemple de type SMS (Short Message Service), un message électronique, par exemple de type email envoyé vers un ordinateur ou un téléphone, ou un appel téléphonique classique.
• on opère, en outre, un contrôle de l'accès du local où est disposé le récipient au moyen d'un témoin d'accès présent dans ledit local ou dans ses environs, et/ou un contrôle de l'accès aux échantillons.
• on associe à chaque échantillon ou produit biologique en phase de cryoconservation un code ou un marquage apte à permettre sa traçabilité, notamment en cas de déplacement dudit échantillon.
• les échanges de données et/ou la communication entre le ou les capteurs de mesure et l'organe de gestion à distance de l'installation sont réalisés au moyen d'un réseau internet, ethernet ou intranet.
• les données relatives auxdits contrôles sont mémorisées par l'organe de gestion de manière à permettre, pour chaque échantilon, un rappel de l'historique du matériel biologique conservé et/ou des conditions de sa conservation.
• l'organe de gestion à distance est apte à intervenir de manière autonome sur l'installation afin de modifier au moins l'un desdits paramétres ou données contrôlées lorsqu'on détecte une discordance ou une différence entre les données relevées dudit paramètre et celles préfixées.

Depending on the case, the method according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics:

• the data or data collected are sent to an organ of the management facility to determine the operating status of the installation and intervene remotely in case of malfunction.
• at least a portion of the data collected in step a) are associated with one or more samples and stored in association with said samples. This allows to know the history of each sample considered.
• a reading is made, preferably continuously, of the open or closed state of at least one valve, in particular a solenoid valve, or means for opening / closing the container and / or the refrigerator, in particular the lid or the door of each container or refrigerator.
• the ambient conditions prevailing in the room that are controlled in step a) are chosen from the percentage of oxygen in the room air, the temperature in the room, the pressure in the room and the humidity of the room, preferably said control is operated so as to detect a leakage of cryogenic fluid from one of the containers.
• the activation of an alarm is provided when at least one of the controlled data comes out of an interval of prefixed values, preferably said alarm is activated remotely by the remote management unit of the installation. The alarm can be an audible or visual alert, or it can be an alert sent to the operator of the installation by an appropriate means of communication, in particular a message sent on his mobile phone, for example of the SMS type (Short Message Service), an electronic message, for example of the email type sent to a computer or a telephone, or a conventional telephone call.
• in addition, a control of the access of the room where the container is placed by means of an access indicator present in said room or in its vicinity, and / or a control of access to the samples.
• each sample or biological product in the cryopreservation phase is associated with a code or a marking that is capable of allowing its traceability, particularly in case of displacement of said sample.
• the data exchanges and / or the communication between the measurement sensor (s) and the remote management unit of the installation are carried out by means of an internet, ethernet or intranet network.
• the data relating to said checks are stored by the management body so as to allow, for each sample, a reminder of the history of the preserved biological material and / or the conditions of its conservation.
• the remote management unit is able to intervene autonomously on the installation in order to modify at least one of said parameters or controlled data when detecting a discrepancy or a difference between the data read from said parameter and those prefixed.

• des moyens de contrôle de chaque récipient et/ou réfrigérateur contenant lesdits échantillons afin de vérifier l'état du fluide cryogénique, de la température dans ledit récipient et/ou réfrigérateur, de la ligne d'alimentation en ledit fluide cryogénique reliant un réservoir de fluide cryogénique audit récipient et/u réfrigérateur, et dudit réservoir de fluide cryogénique, et/ou
• des moyens de contrôle d'au moins une condition ambiante régnant dans le local,
• des moyens de contrôle des échantillons conservés, et
• un organe de gestion, et
• des moyens de transmission de données aptes à envoyer les données relatives auxdits contrôles à l'organe de gestion à distance de l'installation de manière à déterminer l'état de fonctionnement de l'installation de cryoconservation et à intervenir en cas de dysfonctionnement ou lorsque les données relevées sont différentes de données correspondantes préfixées.

The invention also relates to a control system of a cryopreservation installation comprising at least one container and / or refrigerator in which are arranged, in a refrigerated atmosphere, samples to be kept, the containers being arranged in at least one room at limited and controlled access, characterized in that it is provided:

• control means for each container and / or refrigerator containing said samples in order to verify the state of the cryogenic fluid, the temperature in said container and / or refrigerator, the supply line for said cryogenic fluid connecting a fluid reservoir cryogenic to said container and / u refrigerator, and said cryogenic fluid reservoir, and / or
• means for controlling at least one ambient condition prevailing in the room,
• control means for the preserved samples, and
• a management body, and
• data transmission means able to send the data relating to said checks to the remote management unit of the installation so as to determine the operating state of the cryopreservation installation and to intervene in the event of malfunction or when the data recorded is different from the corresponding data prefixed.

• les moyens de contrôle de chaque récipient comprennent des capteurs de niveau aptes à relever le niveau de fluide cryogénique dans le récipient, des capteurs de température aptes à relever sa température et des capteurs d'ouverture/fermeture aptes à déterminer l'ouverture d'un récipient.
• à chaque récipient est associé un dispositif d'identification et de contrôle connecté à au moins un desdits capteurs et à au moins une unité de contrôle reliée à distance à l'organe de gestion à distance de l'installation.
• sont prévues deux unités de contrôle redondantes, connectées à une ligne de transfert de données à laquelle est relié, en outre, le dispositif d'identification et de contrôle.
• sont prévus dans le local, des moyens de mesure des conditions ambiantes, en particulier de l'air ambiant, de préférence on prévoit en outre des moyens de ventillation dudit local activables en fonction du relèvement de telles conditions.
• les moyens de mesure sont choisis parmi un capteur de pression de l'air, un capteur de température et/ou d'humidité, et un capteur de teneur en oxygène dans l'air du local où sont disposés les récipients de cryoconservation.
• les moyens de mesure sont connectés à l'organe de gestion à distance de l'installation.
• l'organe de gestion à distance de l'installation est connecté à au moins un serveur apte à recueillir les données relevées dans les récipients et/ou dans le local où ils sont disposés.
• l'organe de gestion à distance est connecté au serveur grâce à une connexion de réseau, en particulier type Ethernet.
• l'organe de gestion à distance peut être un ordinateur doté d'un navigateur internet.

Depending on the case, the system of the invention may include one or more of the following features:

• the control means of each receptacle comprise level sensors able to raise the level of cryogenic fluid in the receptacle, temperature sensors capable of raising its temperature, and opening / closing sensors able to determine the opening of a receptacle. container.
• each container is associated with an identification and control device connected to at least one of said sensors and at least one control unit remotely connected to the remote management member of the installation.
• two redundant control units are provided, connected to a data transfer line to which is further connected the identification and control device.
• in the room, means for measuring ambient conditions, in particular ambient air, are preferably provided, and venting means are also provided for activating said room according to the raising of such conditions.
• the measuring means are chosen from an air pressure sensor, a temperature and / or humidity sensor, and an oxygen content sensor in the air of the room where the cryopreservation containers are placed.
• the measuring means are connected to the remote management unit of the installation.
• the remote management unit of the installation is connected to at least one server capable of collecting the data found in the containers and / or in the room where they are arranged.
• the remote management unit is connected to the server through a network connection, in particular Ethernet type.
• the remote management unit may be a computer with an internet browser.

• la figure 1 représente de manière générale, une installation dans laquelle est utilisé un système et une méthode de contrôle selon l'invention ;
• la figure 2 est une vue générale du système utilisé dans l'installation de la figure 1 ;
• la figure 3 représente, schématiquement, du point de vue logique/fonctionnel, le système de contrôle selon l'invention ; et
• la figure 4 représente un schéma à blocs détaillés d'une partie du système de la figure 3.

The present invention will now be better understood, thanks to the following description, given by way of illustration but not limitation, and with reference to the appended figures, among which:

• FIG. 1 generally represents an installation in which a system and a control method according to the invention are used;
• Figure 2 is a general view of the system used in the installation of Figure 1;
• FIG. 3 schematically represents, from the logical / functional point of view, the control system according to the invention; and
• FIG. 4 represents a detailed block diagram of part of the system of FIG. 3.

FIG. 1 schematically shows a cryopreservation installation according to the invention which comprises a restricted access room A in which cryogenic containers 3 and mechanical freezers 4 are placed in which samples and / or chemical and biochemical products are housed. or biological to keep.

For the sake of simplification, in the context of the present invention, the generic term "samples" will be used to designate the different biological, biochemical, chemical or other preserving materials that are stored in the tanks 3 or the refrigerators. samples, after a timely treatment, are stored in the (or) container or tank 3 or freezer 4 until their removal, which can take place after a long period, for example after months or years.

In each cryogenic container 3 is present a cryogenic fluid, which is usually nitrogen at cryogenic temperature serving to maintain in the container itself an appropriate temperature (eg <150 ° C) for the preservation of samples. The cryogenic fluid is stored in at least one tank 1 and is conveyed to the containers 3 via a supply line 2 in cryogenic fluid.

In room A, there are also one or more mechanical freezers 4 or refrigerators which allow the conservation of the samples according to another preservation technique usually used in a cryopreservation plant. These freezers 4 can also use cryogenic fluid in case of malfunction of their refrigeration system and, for this reason, they are also connected to line 2 to be supplied with liquid nitrogen from the tank 1.

The cryogenic fluid supply of the two types of devices 3, 4 is carried out through the control of a main valve 8 located on the line 2 and an exhaust valve 9 and supply valves 23 located on the lines connection 24 connected, on the one hand, to each container 3 or mechanical freezer 4 and, secondly, to the line 2 of nitrogen supply.

To guarantee the safety of personnel who have access to room A, in particular in order to limit the risks of anoxia related to the presence of liquid gas, and to maintain adequate ambient parameters for the handling of samples and the operation of the equipment present in the room. this atmosphere is preferably provided with room sensors 6, connected to sound and light alarm devices 5, which are internal and external to room 7, and to a ventilation system of room 7.

In such an installation, it is absolutely essential to maintain inside each container 3 or freezer 4, the desired prefixed cryopreservation temperature.

In addition, regarding the cryogenic receptacles 3, it must always be possible to control the correct level of liquid nitrogen present therein. This control must be operated in continuous mode and, preferably, without the dedicated personnel entering each room A where the containers 3 and / or the freezers 4 are located, and limiting the opening of the containers to a minimum. 3, in order to avoid the degradation of the biological material therein, to avoid possible contamination of the room A while reducing the management costs of the installation 1 and to prevent access to the room by persons not allowed.

In addition, it is important to detect and quickly resolve any anomalies in the nitrogen supply and operation of the containers 3 or freezers 4 and maintain a history of all the parameters, in particular the ambient parameters, coming from the devices. and sensors 6, which participate in good conservation of the samples.

For this purpose, using the system according to the invention, it is possible to collect the data of each container 3 and freezer 4 and of each sensor 6 present in the room A, and then intervene to avoid endangering the biological material of the samples.

• une pluralité de capteurs 6 et de coupleurs 113, présents dans l'installation, qui sont des dispositifs qui traduisent le signal des capteurs 6 en un protocole de réseau (blocs 13 et 15);
• des dispositifs de contrôle des accès, tel un lecteur de badge 10, de code ou un dispositif de reconnaissance biométrique, et des actions opérées dans le local (bloc 14);
• un centre de contrôle 11, relié à ceux-ci via un réseau 16 de données, telun réseau Ethernet, où les données relevées sont récoltées et traitées, et dans lequel sont activés automatiquement des interventions visant à résoudre d'éventuels problèmes qui peuvent survenir lors de la cryoconservation du matériel;
• un ou plusieurs serveurs principaux 12, reliés au centre de contrôle 11 via un réseau de données 17, dans lequel les données recueillies sont emmaganisées et qui gère l'interface avec l'usager.

For this, we implement, as shown schematically in Figure 2:

• a plurality of sensors 6 and couplers 113, present in the installation, which are devices which translate the signal of the sensors 6 into a network protocol (blocks 13 and 15);
• access control devices, such as a card reader 10, code or a biometric recognition device, and actions performed in the room (block 14);
• a control center 11, connected thereto via a network 16 of data, such as an Ethernet network, where the data collected are collected and processed, and in which interventions are automatically activated to solve any problems that may arise during cryopreservation of the material;
• one or more main servers 12, connected to the control center 11 via a data network 17, in which the collected data is stored and manages the interface with the user.

• collecter et emmagasiner des données provenant des dispositifs de terrain, c'est à dire des capteurs et autres dispositifs susmentionnés;
• exécuter des actions sur les dispositifs de terrain pour le compte d'un opérateur ou automatiquement en réponse au dépassement d'une valeur-seuil d'un paramètre contrôlé par lesdits dispositifs;
• générer des alarmes critiques vers le personnel ou l'opérateur par GSM (SMS), E-mail, WEB, et voix ;
• fournir une interface de supervision basée sur des technologies de réseau (Web) utilisable aussi bien par Internet que sur un intranet.

In particular, the control center 11, connected to each main server 12, realizes the following functionalities:

• collect and store data from field devices, ie sensors and other devices mentioned above;
• perform actions on the field devices on behalf of an operator or automatically in response to exceeding a threshold value of a parameter controlled by said devices;
• generate critical alarms to the staff or the operator by GSM (SMS), E-mail, WEB, and voice;
• provide a supervisory interface based on network technologies (Web) that can be used both over the Internet and on an intranet.

• Mise à niveau (up grading) : il est possible d'ajouter des serveurs en équilibre de fonctionnement pour rendre les temps de réponse du centre de contrôle 11 presque constants face à une augmentation du fonctionnement;
• Fiabilité, disponibilité: l'opérativité du système est une garantie même en cas de dommage d'un de ses composants grâce à l'usage des technologies suivantes:
  • ° Support de la redondance des serveurs et des services applicatifs;
  • ° Redondance au niveau de la connectivité de réseau (fiches de réseau, commutateurs, convertisseurs de signaux, points d'accès pour la connexion sans fil);
  • ° Balancement de chargement (load balancing) qu'autorise la redirection des demandes des différents organes ou des capteurs connectés vers un serveur disponible en cas de dégradation d'un des serveurs;
  • ° Interactivité avec des appareillages déjà existants de l'installation et avec d'autres appareillages qui pourront être ajouter à celle-ci, qui soient basés sur des standards actuels ou futurs.

In addition, in order to guarantee continuity of service, the supervision system meets the following needs:

• Upgrading: it is possible to add servers in operating equilibrium to make the response times of the control center 11 almost constant in the face of an increase in operation;
• Reliability, availability: the operability of the system is a guarantee even in case of damage of one of its components through the use of the following technologies:
  • ° Redundancy support for servers and application services;
  • ° Redundancy in network connectivity (network plugs, switches, signal converters, access points for wireless connection);
  • ° Load balancing that allows the redirection of requests from the different organs or sensors connected to an available server in case of degradation of one of the servers;
  • ° Interactivity with already existing equipment of the installation and with other equipment that may be added to it, which are based on current or future standards.

The data network 16 is based on Ethernet technology. This allows an optimal connection between the various points of the installation and the control center 11 and allows, among other things, a quick connection and activation of the various members of the system according to the invention with said center 11, a significant simplification remote technical intervention on the various system components, a high flexibility of the installation insofar as new devices (sensors and devices) can be quickly connected to the system without any negative effect on the operation of the system and bodies present beforehand. This network topology also allows a fast connection to an existing intranet network, for example a hospital.

• DISPOSITIFS DE CHAMP/DE TERRAIN : l'aire 31 est composée de l'ensemble des dispositifs qui composent l'instrumentation de l'installation de cryoconservation 1 et de leurs éventuelles interfaces de communication.
• AUTOMATION DE CHAMP : l'aire 32 est composée d'un ou plusieurs superviseurs de champ en configuration redondante, et sert à l'automation des dispositifs et le recueil des données.
• DATABASE PRINCIPALE: l'aire 33 est composée d'un ou plusieurs serveurs 12 munis d'une database ou base de données principale et de systèmes adéquats multicanaux de communication, pour la consolidation historique des données et la gestion des services de l'interface utilisateur U.
• INTERFACE UTILISATEUR : l'aire 34 est composée d'ordinateurs ou de dispositifs portables qui permettent l'opérativité des utilisateurs U sur l'installation de cryoconservation 1.

The system according to the invention is logically subdivided into four logical areas, shown in FIG. 3. The sub-division made is purely logical / functional and does not necessarily reflect the hardware actually used, which will be detailed hereinafter. According to this sub-division, said system comprises the following areas:

• FIELD / FIELD DEVICES: the area 31 is composed of all the devices that make up the instrumentation of the cryopreservation installation 1 and their possible communication interfaces.
• FIELD AUTOMATION: Area 32 consists of one or more field supervisors in a redundant configuration, and is used for device automation and data collection.
• MAIN DATABASE: the area 33 is composed of one or more servers 12 provided with a database or main database and adequate multi-channel communication systems, for the historical consolidation of data and the management of the services of the user interface U.
• USER INTERFACE: the area 34 is composed of computers or portable devices that allow the operation of the users U on the cryopreservation facility 1.

• COMMANDES D'AUTOMATION 35: Elles servent à recueillir et à envoyer les données et les signaux par les dispositifs et les interfaces, les données pour la gestion de l'automation de l'installation et pour le recueil des données.
• RECUEIL DES DONNEES 36: il sert à la gestion de la communication des données des superviseurs de champ et de configuration de l'installation.
• SERVICES D'INTERFACE 37: ils servent à la gestion de l'interface multicanaux de la database principale avec l'utilisateur U.

These four levels communicate with each other through three communication systems schematized in Figure 3.

• AUTOMATION CONTROLS 35: They are used to collect and send data and signals through devices and interfaces, data for automation management of the plant and for data collection.
• DATA COLLECTION 36: It is used to manage the data communication of the field supervisors and the configuration of the installation.
• INTERFACE SERVICES 37: they are used to manage the multichannel interface of the main database with the user U.

The level relative to the field automation 32 and the level relative to the main database 33 represent the logic control center 11 of the entire system according to the invention.

Each level is characterized by a plurality of different process algorithms (software), which are detailed below.

Level n. 1: FIELD DEVICE

This logic area takes care of collecting the physical signals from the field or the various sensors (13-15) and control devices 11, and to transform them by means of appropriate logic low level couplers, in intelligible data at the higher logical levels and vice versa, transforming the actions controlled by the higher levels into intelligible signals by the devices and the field actuators.

Special low level couplers are used for the management of these automation features which concern the safety of the operators in the installation or which are considered critical according to the proposed objectives of the installation. These are programmed through a logic PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) to ensure their operation also in case of serious malfunction of logic higher level.

• vérifier en permanence que le système de supervision est actif : fonction surveillance;
• vérifier que le niveau d'oxygène ne descend pas en dessous de deux seuils critiques, par exemple 19% et 17%; et
• générer une alarme sonore par le biais d'une modulation de fréquence de son d'un générateur de son (éteint, 1 Hz, 2 Hz, son continu) - de chaque dispositif d'alarme 5 - quand le système de supervision reste inactif et le niveau d'oxygène dans le local A, contrôlé par le capteur 6, est sous les seuils critiques.

There is normally at least one coupler programmed so that, implanted on the field device for the control of the ambient parameters (ambient sensor 6), it follows the following sequences:

• constantly check that the supervision system is active: monitoring function;
• check that the oxygen level does not fall below two critical thresholds, for example 19% and 17%; and
• generate an audible alarm by means of a sound frequency modulation of a sound generator (off, 1 Hz, 2 Hz, continuous sound) - of each alarm device 5 - when the supervision system remains inactive and the level of oxygen in the room A, controlled by the sensor 6, is below the critical thresholds.

There are also at this level field devices that have an advanced communication protocol and are able to communicate with the higher level directly or through a protocol coupler. Such devices may be, for example, cryogenic tank supervision electronics or refrigerators 4, but also centrifuges or laboratory incubators.

Level N. 2: AUTOMATION OF FIELD

• le CrioFieldManager 47 ayant les fonctions suivantes :
  • soit effectuer l'interrogation (pooling) des dispositfs de champ pour en retirer les données en se basant sur la configuration lue par la database principale 40 (aire 33 décrite ci-après) ou ajourner le contacteur de surveillance d'un dispositif 37 apte à effectuer le contrôle ambient pour permettre au dispositif une génération indépendante d'alarmes (via un dispositif d'alerte correspondant) qui peuvent concerner la sécurité des utilisateurs dans l'installation (par ex : sous-oxygénation) ou qui sont considérées critiques selon les objectifs préfixés de l'installation, en cas de dysfonctionnement du système de supervision;
  • soit ajourner/contrôler une temporisation de surveillance partagée avec le
    • CrioFieldManager47 en mode actif/passif pour gérer la redodance du service;
    • ° Mémoriser les données de champ dans une base de données 49 de terrain des dispositifs de champ;
    • ° Exécuter des actions sur les dispositifs de champ, imposées par l'opérateur ou en automatique, et générer des alarmes.
• CrioLocalExchanger48 avec les fonctions suivantes:
  • o répliquer les données sur les dispositifs de champ et les alarmes, incorporées dans la base de données 49 du service CrioFieldManager47, dans la database principale 40 ;
  • o transférer de la database principale 40 à la base de données 49, les actions sur les dispositifs de champ imposées par l'opérateur;
  • o effectuer le redémarrage du service CrioFieldManager 47 en cas de changement de la configuration ou des paramètres de champ.

This logic area 32 contains all the informative automation processes of the field devices. In particular, such components are shown diagrammatically in FIGS. 3 and 4, and comprising:

• the CrioFieldManager 47 having the following functions:
  • either perform the pooling of the field devices to remove the data based on the configuration read by the main database 40 (area 33 described below) or postpone the monitoring contactor of a device 37 able to perform the ambient control to allow the device an independent generation of alarms (via a corresponding warning device) which may concern the safety of the users in the installation (eg under-oxygenation) or which are considered critical according to the objectives prefixed with the installation, in case of malfunction of the supervision system;
  • or postpone / control a shared monitoring timer with the
    • CrioFieldManager47 in active / passive mode to manage the redodance of the service;
    • ° Store field data in a field database 49 field devices;
    • ° Perform actions on field devices, imposed by the operator or automatically, and generate alarms.
• CrioLocalExchanger48 with the following functions:
  • o replicate the data on the field devices and the alarms, incorporated in the database 49 of the service CrioFieldManager47, in the main database 40;
  • transfer from the main database 40 to the database 49, the actions on the field devices imposed by the operator;
  • o Restart the CrioFieldManager 47 service when changing the configuration or field settings.

The database 49 is the support database connected to this logical area 33. It contains the data read by the CrioFieldManager 47 service by the field devices and the current field configuration.

The communication via a logical area CrioDBInterface 41 of the supervisor 100 is a service via internet or network (web service) used by the service CrioFieldManager 47 and CrioLocalExchanger 48 to access the database 40 principal.

All the components that make up this area are always redundant: it is therefore always at least two processes of this type for each installation and as many databases 49, among which at least one is active; the other, passive, continuously check the functionality of the active process (s), ready to activate in the event of system failure, while at the same time triggering a malfunction alarm.

Level n. 3: MAIN DATA DATABASE

This logical area 33 collects all the data recorded by the databases 49 and consolidates them in the main database 40 permanently; and vice versa, as mentioned above, restores the usual configuration and the actions commanded by the operator on the database database (s) 49.

In addition, it manages the services (interface services) that allow the interface with the user. This database also contains all the commands and actions entered by the user.

The communication system via areas 32 and 33 ("Data Collection" 36 in Figure 3) is based on an evolved and asynchronous protocol, ie which guarantees the integrity of data and which also works in case of discontinuity communication via levels 32 and 33.

• CrioDBinterface 41 est un service par internet ou de réseau (service web) utilisé par les servces CrioFieldManager47 et CrioLocalExchanger48 pour accéder à la base de données 40 principale;
• CrioSMTPGateway 45 est un algorythme qui extrait de la base de données 40 principale, les alarmes à envoyer via e-mail et les envoie vers un serveur SMTP;
• CrioPhoneCell 46 est un algorythme qui extrait de la base de données 40 principale, les alarmes à envoyer via SMS ou la voix et les envoie vers le système d'envoi de SMS ou un système de messagerie vocale;

More particularly, the area 100 of Figure 4 comprises the following components:

• CrioDBinterface 41 is an internet or network service (web service) used by CrioFieldManager47 and CrioLocalExchanger48 services to access the main database 40;
• CrioSMTPGateway 45 is an algorithm that extracts from the main database 40, the alarms to be sent via e-mail and sends them to an SMTP server;
• CrioPhoneCell 46 is an algorithm that extracts from the main database, the alarms to be sent via SMS or voice and sends them to the SMS sending system or voicemail system;

Level n. 4: USER INTERFACE

This logical area summarizes all communication strategies with the user. The main interface with the user is web-based and can work through any computer or PC with a standard internet browser. The user interface access policy is based on user profiles: a user authenticates only once and only accesses the features for which they are authorized.

• Panneau de contrôle 42 : application de réseau accessible par Internet ou Intranet qui permet aux opérateurs d'avoir sous contrôle l'état des dispositifs de champ, exécuter des actions et visualiser les alarmes actives.
• Gestion des échantillons 43 : application de réseau accessible par Internet ou Intranet qui permet aux opérateurs de visualiser l'archivage et les mouvements des échantillons cryoconservés.
• Administration 44 : application de réseau accessible par Internet ou Intranet qui permet aux administrateurs de visualiser les dispositifs monitorés, leur typologie, les paramètres...

Each action, activation or modification performed by the user is plotted in the system. The functionalities of the main interface are explained to the user through three application areas of the supervisor 100:

• Control Panel 42: A network application accessible over the Internet or Intranet that allows operators to monitor the status of field devices, perform actions, and view active alarms.
• Sample Management 43: A network application accessible via the Internet or Intranet that allows operators to view the archiving and movement of cryopreserved samples.
• Administration 44: application of network accessible by Internet or Intranet which allows the administrators to visualize the monitored devices, their typology, the parameters ...

Also included in this area 34 are the interfaces predisposed for portable devices (PDAs or the like) for inputting and viewing the user data of the wireless channels.

LOGICAL ARCHITECTURE OF THE INSTALLATION

The logical architecture of the invention described above can be broken down, in various ways, in the devices installed in the cryopreservation plant. The physical configuration of the installation is determined in fact not only by the devices present in the installation but also by the requirements of redundancy and level of service required for the objectives prefixed in the installation itself.

• Stations d'acquisition et de controle des signaux A/D (analogiques/digitales): basées sur des coupleurs PLC, permettent l'acquisition et le contrôle des signaux A/D de champ. Ceux-ci peuvent intégrer aussi des signalisations accoustiques et lumineuses, et implémenter des fonctionnalités autonomes;
• Stations de couplage Série/Ethernet: basées sur des couplages de protocoles de niveau bas, permet la traduction des protocoles basés sur le réseau série sur le réseau Ethernet.
• Lecteur de cartes électroniques ou de badges de proximité, pour autoriser l'accès à la salle aux seuls autorisées. Pour renforcer la sécurité à l'entrée, il est possible de requérir de l'usager de composer un code et/ou d'effectuer une reconnaissance biométrique de son pouce.
• Télécaméra, avec révélateur de présence, qui réalisent l'acquisition des images de chaque actions opérées sur les dispositifs présents dans la salle. La logique de fonctionnement de ces deux dispositifs est gérée par le superviseur central, connecté à ceux-ci par réseau Ethernet.

Concerning level 31, it is normally implemented through the following devices:

• Acquisition and control stations for A / D signals (analog / digital): based on PLC couplers, allow acquisition and control of A / D field signals. These can also include acoustic and light signals, and implement standalone features;
• Serial / Ethernet Coupling Stations: Based on low level protocol pairings, allows the translation of serial network-based protocols over the Ethernet network.
• Electronic card reader or proximity badges, to allow access to the room only authorized. To enhance security at the entrance, it is possible to require the user to dial a code and / or perform a biometric recognition of his thumb.
• Telecamera, with revealing presence, which realize the acquisition of the images of each action operated on the devices present in the room. The operating logic of these two devices is managed by the central supervisor, connected to them by Ethernet network.

• pour chaque branche ou ligne de connexion 24 de la ligne d'alimentation d'azote 2 sont prévues deux stations de controle et des signaux A/D pour la gestion du refroidissement de la ligne de connexion 24, et deux stations de couplage série Ethernet pour la traduction des signaux ;
• pour chaque local A est prévue au moins une station de contrôle des signaux A/D pour le contrôle de l'atmopshère de la salle, au moins un lecteur de badge 10 et au moins une Webcam 114 reliée au réseau 16;
• pour chaque réservoir d'azote 3 est prévue une station de contrôle des signaux A/D pour déterminer le niveau et la pression du réservoir lui-même;
• les niveaux ou aires 32, 33, 34 peuvent être implémentés sur un ou plussieurs dispositifs physiques pourvu qu'ils aient la fonctionnalité d'un ordinateur (PC).

In the typical configuration of a cryopreservation plant, whose main components have been described above, level 1 is structured as follows:

• for each branch or connection line 24 of the nitrogen supply line 2 are provided two control stations and A / D signals for the management of the cooling of the connection line 24, and two Ethernet serial coupling stations for the translation of the signals;
• for each local A is provided at least one A / D signal control station for controlling the atmosphere of the room, at least one badge reader 10 and at least one Webcam 114 connected to the network 16;
• for each nitrogen tank 3 there is provided an A / D signal control station for determining the level and the pressure of the tank itself;
• the levels or areas 32, 33, 34 may be implemented on one or more physical devices provided they have the functionality of a computer (PC).

• le niveau 32 est de préférence installé sur deux PC industriels ou plus, conçus pour résister à la poussière et à l'eau, disposés au voisinage de l'installation;
• le niveau 33 est de préférence installé sur deux serveurs ou plus, munis d'au moins de doublages en alimentation et de dispositifs d'archivage de masse. Il peut être disposé aussi dans un site à distance de l'installation 1, connecté au système via une infrastructure quelconque de réseau type internet;
• le niveau 34 est obtenu au traverse des PC fixes ou des PC portables disposés à l'entrée de l'installation de cryoconservation;
• le réseau de données 16 reliant les différents dispositifs est de type Ethernet ou menant à Ethernet via des coupleurs adaptés 113;
• les interconnexion de réseau sont structurées de manière telle que chaque dispositif peut être joint au travers d'au moins deux parcours de réseau distincts et indépendents (cf. Ethernet 1 et 2 sur Figure 2);
• en général, la configuration peut être entièrement doublée/redondante, en tout ou en partie, selon les exigences du client pour garantir la disponibilité de l'application en accord avec les objectifs de l'installation de cryoconservation.

The typical configuration is illustrated in Figure 3:

• level 32 is preferably installed on two or more industrial PCs, designed to resist dust and water, arranged in the vicinity of the installation;
• the level 33 is preferably installed on two or more servers, provided with at least feed doublings and mass storage devices. It can also be arranged in a site remote from the installation 1, connected to the system via any type of Internet network infrastructure;
• level 34 is obtained at the cross of the fixed PCs or laptops arranged at the entrance of the cryopreservation facility;
• the data network 16 connecting the different devices is of the Ethernet type or leading to Ethernet via suitable couplers 113;
• the network interconnections are structured in such a way that each device can be joined through at least two separate and independent network paths (see Ethernet 1 and 2 in Figure 2);
• in general, the configuration can be fully dubbed / redundant, in whole or in part, according to the customer's requirements to ensure the availability of the application in accordance with the objectives of the cryopreservation facility.

The operation of the system according to the invention will now be described in the context of a typical cryopreservation installation, schematized in FIGS. 1 and 2 so as to explain how the logical and physical interfaces can be implemented.

In Figures 1 and 2, we see a part of an installation comprising in particular, the containers or tanks 3 and the mechanical freezers 4 in which are disposed the biological materials to be preserved. As mentioned above, the containers receive liquid nitrogen from a tank 1 through a feed line 2. Each of said containers 3, tank 1 and line 2 is controlled by the control center 11 so as to maintain, for all the biological material, optimal conditions for its conservation over time (even prolonged).

More particularly, each container or tank 3 is provided with dedicated sensors (not shown) able to record the level of nitrogen inside, the temperature, the state of the lid and the supply solenoid valve of the container.

Each container 3, furthermore, is provided with a control device which is connected to said sensors which collects data from said container and makes them available on a network interface which is typically, but not necessarily, asynchronous serial, which may be connected in cascade to several containers, thus forming a chain. At the end of this chain are connected two couplers, the first being the main unit which, while the second (backup) intervenes in the event of damage to the main unit, guarantees the continuity of acquisition of the data that comes from devices.

In order to allow the filling of the container with nitrogen in the liquid phase, the main coupler also manages the cooling of the nitrogen line 2, being connected to a solenoid valve 23 and to a temperature sensor (not shown) arranged on said line. When a container 3 needs a filling of cryogenic fluid, the solenoid valve 23, arranged at the end of the supply line, opens allowing gas-phase fluid to escape to the outside atmosphere. When the temperature detected by the sensor falls below a value compatible with the presence of cryogenic fluid in the liquid phase, the solenoid valve 23 is closed. In order to optimize the cryogenic fluid consumption, the system controls the filling of all the devices (3-4) present on the line 2.

In the room A, an A / D (analog / digital) signal acquisition and control station 13 is connected to sensors 6 for oxygen, pressure, temperature and humidity 6. It also makes it possible to control sound and light warning devices 5, control conventional ventilation devices of the room 7 and control the main solenoid valve 8. In particular, the volume percentage of ambient oxygen must be monitored continuously. The system allows the imposition of two alarm thresholds; typically a non-critical alarm threshold (% <19%) and a critical alarm (% <17%) are imposed.

If the oxygen content reaches the threshold of 19%, the signal acquisition and control station A / D 13 activates the ventilation device 7 to obtain a maximum replacement of air; and a local, bright or / and audible alarm 5 is activated and alerts the staff. The alarm condition disappears when returning the content to a normal level (greater than 19%).

If the oxygen content falls below 17%, the high speed ventilation is confirmed and the main liquid nitrogen feed solenoid valve 8 is closed; and a local, bright and audible alarm 5 is activated to warn the personnel.

The system continuously records all ambience parameters: each collected data is sent to the control center 11 and then stored in the main database. The couplers are connected to other couplers, via connecting members, and by means of these are connected to a programmable unit for the control of the data of the local A itself connected to the center 11.

The system continuously monitors the pressure and the level of the feed tank 1 by means of readings mounted on the tank. The data is sent to the control center 11 via a series of appropriate couplers.

When the level reaches a level of attention, an alarm sounds to inform users of the need for filling. This alarm is normally also sent to a cellular device (not shown) responsible for filling the cryogenic fluid of the supply tank 1.

The system also activates alarms in case of critical level and pressure values, which are indicative of potential malfunction of the cryogenic fluid distribution system. The system allows a continuous control of the nitrogen level and the temperature of the cryogenic containers and at least the temperature of the containers with mechanical technology and the adequate activation of solenoid valves for filling the cryogenic fluid of the tanks.

The level of liquid nitrogen is continuously measured by a dedicated capacitive probe in the cryogenic containers 3. It responds in active mode to any filling levels outside critical values, by activating the automatic filling of the container.

Each piece of data collected is sent to the control center 11 and then stored by the main database of the server 12. Suitable level alarms are provided and the system malfunctions with organization of critical level thresholds, which will have the filling function for the automatic filling system.

• alarme de niveau minimum - non critique : % inférieur de 5% au niveau de début de chargement;
• alarme de niveau super minimum - critique : % inférieur de 10% au niveau de début de chargement;
• alarme de niveau maximum - critique : % supérieur de 5% au niveau de fin de chargement;
• alarme de niveau super maximum - critique : % supérieur de 10% au niveau de fin de chargement.

For example, assuming that the start and end levels of loading are 60 and 80%, the established thresholds can be:

• minimum level alarm - non-critical: 5% lower than the load start level;
• super minimum level alarm - critical:% lower than 10% at the start of loading level;
• maximum level alarm - critical: 5% higher than end of loading level;
• super maximum level alarm - critical:% higher by 10% at the end of loading level.

When the loading start level is reached (eg 60%), the automatic filling starts with an opening of the filling solenoid valve of the container 23. The solenoid valve remains in the open state until reaching the final loading level (eg 80%), and the solenoid valve closes when it is reached.

In the case of mechanical refrigerators 4, the nitrogen supply is used only in case of malfunction of the mechanical cooling system, and arrives via the supply solenoid valve 23.

The control of the temperature of the nitrogen enables the continuous recording of the temperature values recorded by the probes dedicated to the cryogenic receptacles 3 and the mechanical freezers 4 and the loading of cryogenic fluid in the event of a temperature below the alarm threshold.

Two alarm thresholds are set, for example: non-critical threshold: T> -145 ° C and critical threshold: T> -135 ° C.

Each collected data is sent to the control center 11 and then stored in the main database 12. Appropriate alarms of temperature and system malfunction are provided with setting of the critical temperature thresholds, which will have the cooling function for the filling system. automatic.

In addition, the system plans to monitor and delay the state of the lid (open-closed). The data relating to changes in the state of the lid are recorded and stored so as to allow the traceability of the movements of the samples contained therein. The system provides for the activation of an open lid alarm.

Finally, the system makes it possible to directly control the state of the filling solenoid valve of the containers, namely open or closed.

In order to conveniently supply liquid nitrogen to the containers 3 and the freezers 4, appropriate control is provided of the main solenoid valve 8 arranged between the tank 1 and the cryopreservation containers. This is normally closed but there is nevertheless a manual bi-pass useful in case of voltage drop. There may be more cascading main solenoid valves, depending on the topology of the installation.

• fermeture: le pourcentage d'oxygène relevé par l'un quelconque des dispositifs de relevé descend sous une valeur préfixée, par exemple 17%;
• fermeture: si est atteint le niveau d'alarme de niveau super-maximum;
• fermeture: intervention manuelle en cas de perte.

The system, via appropriate signal couplers, manages the opening / closing of the solenoid valve of the tank in the following cases:

• closure: the percentage of oxygen raised by any of the reading devices falls below a prefixed value, for example 17%;
• closing: if the super-maximum level alarm level is reached;
• closure: manual intervention in case of loss.

The system reopens the solenoid valve 8 in case of return to normal of the aforementioned parameters or in case of manual intervention.

The system continuously records the state of the main solenoid valve 8. Each collected data is sent to the control center 11 and then stored in the main database 12.

Thanks to the invention, it is possible to supervise an installation of cryopreservation optimally, even remotely, by controlling the parameters specific to each container 3, 4 able to allow such preservation, the ambient parameters and also the accesses to each container and at each place where the biological material is conserved.

The system is connected to an intranet / internet network and has its own architecture for protecting data access (firewall). It can be accessed using an internet browser.

The system automatically adjusts its functionality according to the permissions of the connected user, regardless of the user platform, without demanding the installation of a specific software (and in any case a web portal). It is optionally open to communication with other national and transnational information systems via a dedicated interface.

All features are fully exploitable by each PC networked to the main server 12.

It is also possible to provide viewing locations in the control rooms with a card reader (badge) to accelerate the authentication operations of the user. For remote locations, authentication is preferably via the user name and a password.

• visualiser les paramètres relatifs aux échantillons eux-mêmes, stockes dans l'installation ;
• visualiser le synoptique topographique de la salle, qui résume les principaux paramètres relevés par les récipients, par les congélateurs mécaniques ou par les points de relevé ambient et par le système de ventilation;
• visualiser les alarmes ;
• visualiser les actions effectuées sur les échantillons : mis en place, prélevé, déplacé; et
• visualiser des statistiques et des rapports multidimensionnels.

The system therefore allows:

• visualize the parameters relating to the samples themselves, stored in the installation;
• visualize the topographic synoptic of the room, which summarizes the main parameters measured by the containers, by the mechanical freezers or by the ambient reading points and by the ventilation system;
• view alarms;
• visualize the actions performed on the samples: set up, removed, moved; and
• visualize statistics and multidimensional reports.

In addition, according to a particularly preferred embodiment, provision is made to associate each preserved sample with an own identification code, for example a barcode or any other marking or identification means capable of allowing identification of the sample considered.

Such a code refers for example to the position of the biological material in the room A, in particular a code that takes into account the container, support, level, box, position row / column in the box, visiotube, straw ...

Thanks to such a codification, an operator, having self-identified via the card or badge and personal password, can easily receive information on the position and type of the sample or samples requested. During sampling or immersion of the sample, the user will have to co-validate via a code reader the containers as and when the samples taken by receiving a confirmation of the system and visual information on how to proceed. This makes it possible to record any movement of each sample or biological material.

In addition, the system associates with the sample all the data collected in the installation that are related to the sample itself.

In this mode, it is possible to retrace the complete history of sample retention.

In other words, in this preferred embodiment of the invention, thanks to the data collected by the method or system of the invention, it is now possible to monitor the history of each sample by memorizing all events having rhythm of the life of the sample considered, in particular it is now possible to know in which tank it was kept (identification of the tank and its position in said tank, room, hospital ..), how long (date of introduction and / or exit of the tank), under which conditions (temperatures, nitrogen levels, alarms triggered or not, opening of the tank ..), by whom it was handled and when (person authorized with access by badge or the like, etc.) etc.

All this information of the sample history can be stored on the samples themselves and / or stored in a database in which the different samples are identified, listed, classified etc ... in association with all the information concerning their history. Thus, in case of need, all this information can be restored immediately and it is then easy to know all the events of the life of a given sample.

In other words, in this way, an operator selecting a given sample can immediately have important information relating to this sample and the life of this sample, that is to say its history.

The present invention is particularly useful in the cryopreservation of biological materials of human, animal or plant origin, such as samples of cells, blood, sperm, or other similar biological material.

Claims (21)

A method of controlling and managing a cryopreservation plant comprising at least one container and / or refrigerator (3,4), in which refrigerated samples are stored, the container and / or refrigerator (3) 4) being arranged in at least one room (A), characterized in that : a) a control is carried out, preferably remotely, with the collection of one or more data derived and / or representative: - at least one container and / or refrigerator (3,4) containing the samples so as to check the state of the cryogenic fluid that is present therein or the electrical supply of said container and / or refrigerator (3,4) and / or the state of the opening / closing means of said container and / or refrigerator (3,4), or the temperature in said container and / or refrigerator (3,4), a supply line (2) of cryogenic fluid connecting at least one tank (1) to at least one container and / or refrigerator (3, 4), at least one valve arranged on said supply line (2), and / or said reservoir (118) containing the cryogenic fluid, and / or at least one ambient condition prevailing in the room (A), and / or - preserved samples, b) generating an alarm and / or incident anomaly information when at least one of said controls of step a) determines an anomaly or a difference from a prefixed state. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the data or data collected are sent to a member (11) of the management installation for determining the operating state of the installation and intervene, preferably remotely, in malfunction. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a portion of the data collected in step a) is associated with the samples and stored in association with the samples. Method according to Claim 1, characterized in that a reading, preferably continuously, of the opening or closing state of at least one valve, in particular a solenoid valve, or a means for opening / closing the container and / or the refrigerator (3, 4), in particular the lid or the door of each container or refrigerator (3, 4). Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the ambient conditions prevailing in the room (A) which are controlled in step a) are chosen from the percentage of oxygen in the air of the room, the temperature in the room, the pressure in the room and the humidity of the room (A), preferably said control is operated so as to detect a leakage of cryogenic fluid from one of the containers (3, 4). Method according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the activation of an alarm is provided when at least one of the monitored data comes out of an interval of prefixed values, preferably said alarm is remotely activated by the device (11) for remote management of the installation (1). Method according to Claim 1, characterized in that a control of the access of the room (A) in which the container (3, 4) is arranged by means of an access lamp (60) is also effected. present in said room (A) or in its vicinity, and / or a control of the access to the samples. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that each sample or biological product is associated in the cryopreservation phase with a code or a marking able to allow its traceability, in particular in case of displacement of said sample. Method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the data exchanges and / or the communication between the measuring sensor (s) and the remote management unit (11) of the installation (1) are carried out by means of an internet, ethernet or intranet network. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the data relating to said controls are stored by the management organ (11) so as to allow, for each sample, a recall of the history of the biological material conserved and / or the conditions conservation and / or information relating to its handling. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the remote management unit (11) is able to intervene autonomously on the installation (1) in order to modify at least one of said parameters or data controlled when detects a discrepancy or a difference between the data recorded from said parameter and those prefixed. Control system for a cryopreservation plant (1) comprising at least one container and / or refrigerator (3, 4) in which, in a refrigerated atmosphere, samples are stored, the containers being placed in at least one room (A) limited and controlled access, characterized in that it comprises: control means (20) for each container and / or refrigerator (3, 4) containing said samples in order to check the state of the cryogenic fluid, the temperature in said container and / or refrigerator (3, 4), the feed line (2) to said cryogenic fluid connecting a reservoir (1) of cryogenic fluid to said vessel and / u refrigerator (3, 4), and said cryogenic fluid reservoir (118), and / or means for controlling at least one ambient condition prevailing in the room (A), means for checking the preserved samples, and a management organ (11), and - Data transmission means (16) able to send the data relating to said checks to the body (11) remote management of the installation so as to determine the operating state of the cryopreservation installation and to intervene in the event of a malfunction or when the data recorded is different from the corresponding data prefixed. System according to Claim 12, characterized in that the means for controlling each receptacle (3, 4) comprise level sensors capable of raising the level of cryogenic fluid in the receptacle, temperature sensors capable of increasing its temperature, and opening / closing sensors capable of determining the opening of a container. System according to one of claims 12 or 13, characterized in that each container is associated with an identification and control device (20) connected to at least one of said sensors and at least one remotely connected control unit. to the remote management unit (11) of the installation (1). System according to Claim 14, characterized in that two redundant control units are provided which are connected to a data transfer line to which the identification and control device (20) is further connected. System according to Claim 12, characterized in that means (6) for measuring the ambient conditions, in particular ambient air, are provided in the room (A). Ventilation means (7) are also preferably provided. ) of said local activatable depending on the recovery of such conditions. System according to one of claims 12 or 16, characterized in that the measuring means (6) are selected from an air pressure sensor, a temperature and / or humidity sensor, and a content sensor. oxygen in the air of the room (A) where are placed cryopreservation containers (3,4). System according to one of Claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the measuring means (6) are connected to the remote management member (11) of the installation. System according to Claim 12, characterized in that the device (11) for remote management of the installation is connected to at least one server (12) able to collect the data recorded in the containers (3, 4) and / or in the room (A) where they are arranged. System according to Claim 12, characterized in that the remote management unit (11) is connected to the server by means of a network connection, in particular Ethernet type (16). System according to Claim 12, characterized in that the remote management unit can be a computer equipped with an internet browser.

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