With this vision, we developed
CCM-CHRONOS™, our advanced
time-lapse incubator.
Designed to create a stress-free
environment, it maintains precise
temperature while continuously observing the earliest
stages of embryo development
without interruption.




In conventional bright-field observation, the delicate contours and structures of embryos often remain indistinct and difficult to define. To address this challenge, Astec’s CCM-CHRONOS™, in collaboration with Nikon, is introducing a breakthrough in illumination: a novel observation method known as Emboss Contrast.
Wavelength Selection: Wavelengths were carefully selected to minimize phototoxic effects on embryos.
Optical System Design: The optical system has been refined to ensure shadows and contours are rendered accurately according to the embryo’s position and movement.
System Integration: Observation reliability is enhanced through seamless integration of autofocus, depth stacking, and contrast adjustment.
CCM-CHRONOS™ provides silent, precise monitoring of critical parameters that influence embryo culture and development. CCM-CHRONOS™ addresses this by minimizing fluctuations in temperature and gas concentration to near-imperceptible levels, creating an incubation environment that consistently maintains stability.
A heating system designed to maintain uniform temperature throughout the entire incubator, supported by precise temperature regulation for each drawer. This ensures exceptional thermal stability and reduces stress on embryo culture.
Real-time monitoring and control via advanced sensors with automatic gas mixture adjustment. Rapid recovery from temporary fluctuations caused by drawer access.
Engineered for uninterrupted performance, the system maintains stable culture conditions even during extended unmanned operation. In the event of irregularities, intelligent alerts and automated logging enable immediate response. The unified management interface, fully integrated with Astec Image Intelligence, supports seamless long-term monitoring and advanced culture analytics.
The upgraded Astec Image Intelligence software goes beyond simple image capture and data storage. It integrates advanced capabilities—including image enhancement, auto-focus, and time-lapse analysis—to convert subtle changes into meaningful insights.
Continuously and chronologically records embryo development throughout the observation period, enabling quantitative tracking of events such as cleavage timing and division speed through an intuitive, dedicated user interface (UI).
Automatically records conditions such as time, focus, and magnification. Enables easy comparison with past data and visualization of progression. Images and videos can be shared externally via network connection. This function is designed for use with Image Intelligence software and is not currently available with CCM-iBIS.
An Ergonomic, Non-slip dedicated dish with a secure grip to protect embryos
The SureGrip™ EmbryoPod sets a new standard in ergonomic handling. Its sides feature a micro-ribbed, anti-slip surface that ensures a stable hold—even with gloved hands. The smooth, contoured silhouette fits naturally into the hand, combining ease of control with dependable safety.
The Embryopod includes 15 wells for high capacity. It also incorporates expanded labeling zones for clear marking and improved traceability. The distinct design enables quick identification during storage and transport, streamlining tray organization and handling. Dish trays are engineered for repeated use and cleaning, offering exceptional durability without compromising performance.
Designed to integrate seamlessly with the dedicated incubator tray, this dish ensures precise alignment and enhanced stability. Its optimized construction absorbs even minor vibrations—providing superior consistency.
A central grid of 25 microwells allows embryos to share the same culture media while still providing individual monitoring of each embryo. The alpha-numeric labelling system facilitates easy and positive embryo identification.
The lid features a unique post design that increases the space between the dish rim and the lid, improving CO2 exchange and minimizing the risk of the lid meeting the oil and sealing the dish.
Featuring six outer wells that can serve as a working area to perform tasks such as embryo washing and transferring.
Specifically designed to be used seamlessly with both the CCM-CHRONOS™ and CCM-iBIS time lapse models.
| Temperature Control Range | 36.0°C - 38.0°C |
|---|---|
| Temperature Accuracy | ± 0.1°C |
| Temperature Fluctuation Range | ± 0.1°C |
| Temperature Uniformity | ± 0.1°C |
| CO2 Gas Control Range | 3.0% – 10.0% |
| CO2 Gas Accuracy | ± 0.2% |
| CO2 Recovery Speed & Fluctuation | ± 0.2% |
| O2 Gas Control Range | 3.0% - 10.0% |
| O2 Gas Accuracy | ± 0.2% |
| O2 Gas Fluctuation Range | ± 0.2% |
| Image Save Resolution | 2,048 pixel × 2,048 pixel |
|---|---|
| Image Save Format | JPEG |
| Image Save Capacity | Approx 250 kB/image |
| Camera Resolution | 5 Megapixels (2,448 pixel × 2,048 pixel) |
| Pixel Size | 3.45 µm × 3.45 µm |
| Sensor Size | 2/3 inch |
| Shutter Type | Global Shutter |
| Stage Position Accuracy | 2 µm |
| Minimum Capture Interval | Up to 150 embryos: 15 mins 151+ embryos: Maximum 30 mins |
| Maximum Number of Slices | 11 slices |
| Temperature Warm-Up Time | 30 mins |
|---|---|
| Temperature Recovery after 30s Door Opening | 15 mins |
| Impact on Other Drawers (30s Door Opening) | Within ±0.1°C |
| CO2 Concentration Stabilization Time | 15 mins |
| CO2 Recovery after 30s Door Opening | 10 mins |
| Impact on Adjacent Drawers (30s Door Opening) | ±0.2% |
| O2 Concentration Stabilization Time | 30 mins |
| O2 Recovery after 30s Door Opening | 10 mins |
| Impact on Other Drawers (30s Door Opening, O2) | ±0.2% |
| Power Supply Voltage | AC110V - 120V, AC220V - 240V 50Hz/60Hz |
|---|---|
| Rated Power Consumption | 320W |
| Maximum Power Consumption | 320W |
| Input Power | 320W |
| Stabilized Power Consumption | 100Wh |
| CO₂ | 1L/h |
|---|---|
| N₂ | 5L/h |
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