Bidirectional hydrometer

Abstract

Disclosed is an arrangement for measuring the volume of a sample. The arrangement includes: a first chamber for accommodating the sample; at least one second chamber connectable to the first chamber; a first gas path including a first valve, the first gas path connected to the first chamber and connected to a gas inlet path at another end; a second gas path including a second valve, the second gas path connected to the second chamber and connected to the gas inlet path at another end; a pressure sensor; a third gas path including a third valve, the third gas path connected to the first chamber and connected to the pressure sensor at another end via the third valve; and a fourth gas path including a fourth valve, the fourth gas path connected to the second chamber and connected to the pressure sensor at another end via the fourth valve. Also disclosed is a method for manufacturing an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid or liquid sample.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid or liquid sample and a method for producing the arrangement, wherein two different measurement modes are implemented. Background Art

[0002] The volume of a solid or liquid sample is determined using gravimetric methods (e.g., for determining true density), using a gas displacement or gas expansion method. A sample chamber, housing the sample to be measured, is filled with gas, and the pressure of this gas is measured. The gas is then expanded into the expansion chamber, and the resulting pressure is measured. Using the Boyle-Mariotte law, the volume of the sample can be determined based on the pressure measurement and the known volumes of the sample and expansion chambers.

[0003] Instruments and arrangements according to conventional prior art can only be operated unidirectionally, which means that at the beginning gas is filled into the sample chamber and will be expanded into the reference chamber or expansion chamber, and vice versa.

[0004] However, depending on the type of sample to be measured, it may be advantageous to first fill the sample chamber with gas, or to first fill the expansion chamber with gas and then expand the gas into the corresponding other chamber. For example, if the true density (or volume) of a foam is to be measured, it may be advantageous to first introduce the gas into the sample chamber and then allow the gas to expand into the reference chamber or the expansion chamber. On the other hand, for fine powders, it may be more appropriate to first fill the expansion chamber or the reference chamber and then expand the gas into the sample chamber.

[0005] Conventional instruments only provide volume or density measurements in one direction. This may be because the pressure transducer or pressure sensor must always be connected to the chamber where the gas is first introduced, thus preventing changes in the direction of gas flow.

[0006] US Pat. No. 5,074,146 A discloses a gas comparison pycnometer for measuring and checking the accuracy of the volume of solid materials. A unique cap assembly maintains the volume of the pycnometer's sample chamber constant for each run. A series of purges using a suitable gas remove unwanted moisture and water vapor from the system. The gas is first introduced into the sample chamber, where the sample resides, and then expanded into the expansion / reference chamber.

[0007] Document US2017 / 0030817 discloses a true density measurement device comprising a sample chamber, an expansion chamber, and a pressure sensor. An inert gas source is connected to the sample chamber so as to first introduce the gas into the sample chamber and then expand the gas into the expansion chamber.

[0008] US 2017 / 0010196 A1 discloses a true density measurement device using a gas phase displacement method. The sample chamber is sealed by a non-rotating cover.

[0009] Document EP 0 720 011 A1 discloses a method for determining the density of nuclear fuel pellets using gas displacement and isothermal gas expansion. Thus, gas is first introduced into a reference chamber and then expanded into a manifold connected to a sample chamber.

[0010] Document CN 203981234 U discloses a volume measurement device using a gas pressure method. The volume of a substance to be measured can be determined by changing the gas pressure in a closed container. The container is filled with compressed inert gas, and after the pressure measurement, the gas is expanded into another container containing the sample.

[0011] It has been observed that the instruments and methods according to the prior art do not provide an accurate and reliable determination of the sample volume and / or sample density under all conditions and circumstances (i.e. for the described types of samples). It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid sample, wherein the accuracy and / or reliability of the result is improved and which is suitable for many different kinds of samples. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Although the set of included claims does not indicate a multiple dependency of a claim with multiple other claims, each of the dependent claims may refer to multiple or all other prior claims according to different embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, the features explained, provided or described in the "Summary of the Invention" section may also be combined with any other features mentioned, described or provided in that section.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an arrangement structure for measuring solid or liquid samples is provided, which arrangement structure or device includes: a first (e.g., sample) chamber, which is used to accommodate the sample; at least one second (e.g., reference or expansion) chamber, which is capable of being connected to the first (e.g., sample) chamber; a first gas (e.g., supply) path including a first valve, which is connected to the first chamber via the first valve at one end and to the gas entry path at the other end; a second gas (e.g., supply) path including a second valve, which is connected to the second chamber via the second valve at one end and to the gas entry path at the other end; a pressure sensor; a third gas (e.g., measurement) path including a third valve, which is connected to the first chamber at one end and to the pressure sensor at the other end via the third valve; a fourth gas (e.g., measurement) path including a fourth valve, which is connected to the second chamber at one end and to the pressure sensor at the other end via the fourth valve.

[0014] The arrangement can be particularly configured as a hydrometer suitable for measuring the volume of a solid sample and / or the (true) density of a solid sample. In order to determine the density of a solid sample, in addition to determining the volume of the solid sample, the mass of the solid sample can also be determined by the arrangement (e.g. using an internal balance) or by auxiliary equipment. Alternatively, if the density of the solid sample is known, the arrangement can be adapted to measure the volume of the solid sample; the mass of the solid sample can then be determined from these two parameters.

[0015] Overview of Implementation Methods

[0016] In some embodiments, the arrangement may include two or more pressure sensors.

[0017] The arrangement can be operated, for example, within a temperature range of 5°C to 50°C. Thus, the chamber and the gas path can be thermostatted to a desired temperature within the aforementioned temperature operating range. In particular, all components of the arrangement that are in thermal contact with the measurement gas can be thermostatted to the same operating temperature, for example within a tolerance of ±1° or less.

[0018] Solid samples may include foam and / or powder and / or dense samples etc. The volume of a solid or liquid sample may be, for example, 0.1 cm 3 Up to 1000cm 3 within the range.

[0019] The first chamber and the at least one second chamber may provide an interior volume or space bounded by wall portions. The chamber may, for example, have a generally cylindrical or cuboid shape. The chamber may, for example, be bounded by different wall portions of the corresponding container, or may, for example, be bounded by the material of a metal component that may be in thermal contact with the chamber or may include or contain the chamber.

[0020] The first chamber may, for example, include a cover or a closure portion, thereby allowing the first chamber to be opened and closed. The cover may, for example, be configured to have a gripping portion, thereby allowing a user to grip the cover and engage the gripping portion (e.g., by a rotational motion) at the engaging portion of the first chamber. When the first chamber is opened, a sample can be introduced into the first chamber. After the sample has been placed in the first chamber (also referred to as the sample chamber), the first chamber can be closed by the cover, i.e., closed in an airtight manner.

[0021] For example, the operating relative pressure after filling the first chamber or filling the at least one second chamber may be in the range of -1 bar to 10 bar. The cover may include a sealing device to keep the gas in the first chamber at the desired operating pressure when the first chamber is closed by the cover.

[0022] The at least one second chamber (also referred to as a reference chamber) may not include a cover.The at least one second reference chamber may be connected to the first chamber when the third valve and the fourth valve are in an open state.

[0023] When a chamber is connectable to or connected to another chamber, this can mean that the gas contained in the chamber can freely communicate with the space or internal volume of the other chamber. Thus, when, for example, a first chamber is connected to a second chamber, the gas in the first chamber and the gas in the second chamber can mix with each other and can be distributed through the first and second chambers to reach the same pressure and completely fill the free volume of the first chamber and the internal volume of the second chamber. When the chamber is connected to a specific valve, this means that the gas contained in the chamber and / or the corresponding valve can freely communicate with the valve or the chamber, respectively.

[0024] Any of the gas paths can be formed by a gas conduit, for example, a gas conduit having a substantially annular cross-sectional shape. The gas path is suitable for guiding or carrying gas without substantially contaminating the gas, absorbing components of the gas, or changing the composition of the gas. The gas paths and chambers can be filled with or guided by any conventionally known measuring gas, such as a noble gas or an inert gas such as nitrogen. In particular, helium can be used as the measuring gas. All valves—i.e., the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve—can be constructed in a substantially identical manner, in particular as solenoid valves and, more particularly, as two-way latching valves.

[0025] The pressure sensor can be configured, for example, to measure relative pressure within an operating range of -1 bar to 10 bar. The pressure sensor can also be thermostatted to have substantially the same temperature as the chamber and valve. All gas paths, valves, and all chambers can also be gas-tight within the aforementioned pressure range.

[0026] The first gas path can also be referred to as the first gas supply path because it provides an opportunity to supply measurement gas to the first chamber. The second gas path can also be referred to as the second gas supply path because it enables the measurement gas to be filled into the second chamber. The third gas path can also be referred to as the third gas measurement path because it can be used to expand gas from the first chamber during measurement or to connect a pressure sensor to the first chamber to measure the pressure after the measurement gas has been filled into the first chamber. The fourth gas path can also be referred to as the fourth gas measurement path because it can be used to expand gas already contained in the first chamber (or second chamber) to the second chamber (or first chamber) via the third valve and the fourth valve during measurement. In this case, the fourth gas path connects the first chamber to the second chamber and also connects both internal volumes of the two chambers to a pressure transducer or pressure sensor. According to embodiments of the present invention, the third and fourth gas paths can be used to connect the first and second chambers to each other and to connect the first and second chambers to a pressure sensor.

[0027] By providing a first gas path, a second gas path, a third gas path, and a fourth gas path including corresponding first, second, third, and fourth valves, the arrangement allows the volume of the sample to be measured in two different operating modes. In the first operating mode, the first (sample) chamber is first filled with the measuring gas, and the measuring gas is then expanded into the second (reference) chamber. In the second measuring mode, the second chamber is first filled with the measuring gas, and the measuring gas is then expanded into the first chamber. In both measuring modes, the sample can be placed in the first chamber. By providing two different measuring modes characterized in that the measuring gas to be expanded flows in opposite directions, accurate and reliable measurements can be performed on various different types of samples.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement structure also includes a controller, which is suitable for controlling the state of at least one of the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, the fourth valve (and in particular the fifth valve and the sixth valve), thereby allowing the sample volume to be measured selectively according to a first measurement mode or a second measurement mode, wherein, in the first measurement mode, the first chamber containing the sample is filled with gas from the gas entry path, and the gas is subsequently expanded into the second chamber, wherein, in the second measurement mode, the second chamber is filled with gas from the gas entry path, and the gas is subsequently expanded into the first chamber containing the sample.

[0029] The controller can be communicatively connected to the different valves via electrical and / or optical and / or wireless control lines.The controller can also be communicatively connected to a pressure sensor, for example, to read out a pressure measurement signal.

[0030] Each valve in the valve can be adapted to be in two different states, namely an open state and a closed state. In the closed state, the corresponding valve can interrupt the gas communication between the two sides of the corresponding valve. In the open state, the corresponding valve can freely allow gas to pass through different sides of the corresponding valve and communicate (for example, in one of the gas paths). The corresponding valve may include a simple solenoid valve that can be in a closed state unless specifically activated by a control signal or control current. In other embodiments, in order to switch the valve between the closed state and the open state, a single current pulse can be provided to the corresponding valve configured as a two-way self-latching valve.

[0031] The controller can be adapted to control the state of the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, the fourth valve, and in particular the fifth valve and the sixth valve, as will be explained further below. Controlling the state of the respective valves allows for performing a measurement method for determining the volume of a solid sample. The controller can, for example, control the respective actuators for the valves, which can generate and transmit appropriate actuator signals based on control signals, such as those transmitted from the controller, thereby adjusting or changing the state of the respective valves.

[0032] The gas inlet path can, for example, be connected to a gas container containing the measured gas. The gas container can be in thermal contact with the corresponding chamber and valve, or not. In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the gas inlet path including the gas container (also referred to as the third chamber) can be in thermal contact with the first chamber, the second chamber, and the different valves, and in particular can be maintained at the same temperature as the first chamber, the second chamber, and the different valves.

[0033] For adopting the first measurement mode or the second measurement mode, it is not necessary to physically change or rearrange any part of the arrangement structure. Simply by appropriately switching the states of different valves, the first measurement mode or the second measurement mode can be selectively established. Therefore, reliable measurements can be performed on various different types of samples. For example, a first type sample group can preferably be measured using the first measurement mode, and a second type sample group can preferably be measured using the second measurement mode. A user operating the arrangement structure can, for example, simply input the corresponding type of sample desired to be measured into the input interface. Based on the input sample type, the arrangement structure can automatically switch to the appropriate measurement mode, i.e., switch to the first measurement mode or switch to the second measurement mode, without further user intervention / input. In other embodiments, the type of measurement mode, i.e., the first measurement mode or the second measurement mode, can be directly input by the user.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the present invention, gas is discharged via the gas receiver in both the first and second measurement modes. That is, regardless of whether the first or second measurement mode is used, gas is always discharged to the same gas receiver, for example, a single gas channel. To discharge gas into the gas receiver, either the fifth or sixth valve can be opened, depending on the measurement mode, as explained below. Therefore, no physical rearrangement of the gas path is required, simplifying the operation of the arrangement.

[0035] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the controller is suitable for causing, when in a first measurement mode: the first valve and the third valve to be opened to allow the first chamber to be filled with gas from the gas inlet path, the first valve to be closed and the first pressure associated with the first measurement mode to be measured using a pressure sensor (for example after reaching equilibrium), (in particular when the first valve, the second valve, the fourth valve, the fifth valve and the sixth valve (as well as the seventh valve and the eighth valve) are closed); the fourth valve (optionally the seventh valve) to be opened to allow gas to also expand into the at least one second chamber and the second pressure associated with the first measurement mode to be measured, wherein the arrangement structure is suitable for calculating the volume of the sample based on the first pressure and the second pressure associated with the first measurement mode.

[0036] The first and third valves can be opened simultaneously or sequentially. For example, the third valve can be opened, meaning the third valve is set to an open state, and the first valve can be opened simultaneously or after the third valve is opened. The first and third valves can remain open until the pressure within the first chamber and the third gas path and the first gas path (when measured by the pressure sensor) reaches a target pressure, which can be, for example, within a range of -1 bar to 10 bar. After reaching the target pressure, the first valve can be closed (i.e., set to a closed state) and the first pressure (associated with the first measurement mode) can be measured using the pressure sensor. Thus, the pressure can be measured by the pressure sensor until the measured pressure does not change by a configurable threshold, thereby specifying a rate of change limit / threshold. Therefore, it is possible to wait until the gas temperature within the sample chamber and the third gas path substantially assumes the temperature of the one or more wall portions that confine the sample chamber and the material that confines the third path. Therefore, the first gas pressure can be determined after reaching equilibrium with respect to the gas temperature. The first gas pressure may be measured when the first valve, the second valve, the fourth valve, the fifth valve, and the sixth valve (and optionally the seventh valve and the eighth valve) are closed.

[0037] After measuring the first pressure (associated with the first measurement mode), the fourth valve (and optionally the seventh valve, explained below) can be opened to allow gas to expand from the first chamber into the at least one second chamber. Furthermore, the second pressure (associated with the first measurement mode) can be measured after equilibrium (particularly with respect to gas temperature) has been reached. Thus, for example, the pressure measured by the pressure sensor can be tracked and followed until the measured pressure no longer changes significantly, and thus changes by less than a threshold value after a predetermined time interval.

[0038] The arrangement (eg including the processor) may use the (previously known) volumes of the first and second chambers in addition to the first and second pressures and may use further calibration data as described in detail below to determine the volumes.

[0039] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the controller is suitable for causing, when in the second measurement mode: the second valve and the fourth valve (optionally the seventh valve) to be opened to allow the at least one second chamber to be filled with gas from the gas inlet path, the second valve to be closed (for example, the second valve is filled until the target pressure is reached) and a first pressure associated with the second measurement mode is measured using a pressure sensor (for example, after equilibrium is reached), (in particular, when the first, second, third, fifth and sixth valves and the seventh and eighth valves are closed); the third valve to be opened to allow gas to also expand into the first chamber and a second pressure associated with the second measurement mode to be measured, wherein the arrangement structure is suitable for calculating the volume of the sample based on the first and second pressures associated with the second measurement mode.

[0040] For example, the fourth valve and the second valve can be opened simultaneously or successively. If it is desired to fill a larger volume such as the volume of the second chamber with gas, the seventh valve can also be opened optionally. The seventh valve can connect the second chamber to another second chamber. The second chamber and, optionally, another second chamber can be filled with measuring gas until the target pressure is reached in the second chamber (and, optionally, another second chamber) and in the second gas path and the fourth gas path. When the target pressure is reached, the second valve can be closed. Then, in particular, after reaching a state of equilibrium, the first pressure (associated with the second measurement mode) can be measured by a pressure sensor. During the measurement of the first pressure, the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, the fifth valve, the sixth valve, and also the seventh valve and the eighth valve can be closed.

[0041] After the first pressure (associated with the second measurement mode) has been measured, the third valve can be opened, thereby connecting the second chamber to the first chamber and allowing gas to expand in the second chamber and the first chamber and the third path. After equilibrium has been reached (e.g., determined by tracking the measured pressure and the measured pressure not changing significantly over time), the second pressure (associated with the second measurement mode) can be measured. In the second measurement mode, the arrangement (processor) calculates the volume of the sample based on the first and second pressures (both associated with the second measurement mode) and optionally also based on the known internal volumes of the first chamber, the second chamber, the fourth gas path, and the third gas path.

[0042] Furthermore, during any of the measurement modes, the sample volume can be calculated based on a portion of the first gas path, particularly the volume of the first gas path between the first valve and the first chamber. Furthermore, the calculation can be based on a portion of the second gas path, i.e., the portion between the second valve and the second chamber. Thus, according to embodiments of the present invention, at least a portion of the volume of the gas path can be considered for sample volume calculation. These specific portions of the gas path can be known in advance and stored, for example, in an electronic memory as calibration data.

[0043] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement structure further comprises: a fifth gas (e.g., exhaust) path comprising a fifth valve, which is connected to the first chamber via the fifth valve at one end and to a gas receiver (e.g., exhaust port) at the other end; a sixth gas (e.g., exhaust) path comprising a sixth valve, which is connected to the second chamber via the sixth valve at one end and to the gas receiver at the other end.

[0044] The fifth gas path can also be referred to as a fifth gas exhaust path because the fifth gas path is used to exhaust the first chamber and / or the second chamber and the connected gas path after a measurement has been performed according to the first measurement mode. Alternatively, the fifth gas path can be used to exhaust the chamber and the gas path after a measurement has been performed according to the second measurement mode. Therefore, only one exhaust port is required, and this exhaust port can be positioned anywhere in the instrument.

[0045] The sixth gas path including the sixth valve can be used to bleed the system after a measurement has been performed using the first measurement mode. Alternatively, bleeding the sixth valve can also be performed after a measurement has been performed according to the second measurement mode. Embodiments of the present invention include only one of these valves, namely the fifth valve and the fifth gas path or the sixth valve and the sixth gas path. In this case, either the fifth valve or the sixth valve can be used (and is present) to bleed the system after any of the operating measurement modes has been performed. In other embodiments, the fifth and sixth valves and the fifth and sixth gas paths may be present.

[0046] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement further comprises: after measuring the second pressure associated with the first measurement mode, opening the fifth valve to allow gas to be discharged from the first and second chambers to the gas receiver. According to an embodiment of the present invention, after measuring the second pressure associated with the second measurement mode, the arrangement further comprises: opening the sixth valve to allow gas to be discharged from the first and second chambers to the gas receiver. Thus, it is possible to provide for discharging the system to the same gas receiver without physically altering any gas paths.

[0047] According to an embodiment of the invention, the arrangement further comprises a processor adapted to calculate the volume of the sample based on at least the pressure measurement and the volumes of the first and second chambers, eg using Bomard's law.

[0048] The processor may, for example, include or execute a computer program loaded into a memory in communication with the processor. The calculations may utilize the Böhm law, as known from thermodynamics. The Böhm law may assume the validity of the ideal gas equation. In other embodiments, a modified equation that takes into account deviations of actual gas behavior from ideal gas behavior may be used instead of the Böhm law assuming an ideal gas. The processor may be communicatively coupled to the controller, for example, the processor may also provide control signals to the controller for appropriate control of the valve according to the measurement program.

[0049] The processor may also be communicatively connected to the pressure sensor to receive a pressure measurement signal. In addition, the processor may be adapted to or communicatively connected to one or more temperature sensors, the one or more temperature sensors being arranged to measure the temperature of different chambers and / or different gas paths. The processor may receive a temperature measurement from a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of a metal assembly that includes all chambers and all gas paths (or is in thermal contact with all chambers and all gas paths). It may then be assumed that all sample chambers and gas paths have substantially the same temperature as determined by the temperature sensor, or the respective temperatures of the different elements may be derived from the temperatures measured by the temperature sensor using, for example, temperature calibration data.

[0050] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve (in particular, the fifth valve and the sixth valve) includes a one-way valve with a sealed input side. The one-way valve can have only one sealed side, i.e., the input side (also referred to as the supply side). The one-way valve can only withstand gas leakage from the input side of the corresponding valve rather than the output side (outlet side). Compared with a two-way valve with two sealed sides, the one-way valve can have a substantially smaller size and weight. Therefore, the complexity, size and weight of the arrangement can be reduced. In addition, the fifth valve and the sixth valve, as well as possible the eighth valve and the seventh valve, can also include valves with a sealed input side or valves with a sealed input side.

[0051] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the following is applicable: the input side of the first valve faces / is connected to the first chamber; the input side of the second valve faces / is connected to the second chamber; the input side of the third valve faces / is connected to the pressure sensor; the input side of the fourth valve faces / is connected to the pressure sensor; if the third valve is in an open state, the input side of the fourth valve is connected to the first chamber; if the fourth valve is in an open state, the input side of the third valve is connected to the second chamber.

[0052] When the input side of the first valve faces or is connected to the first chamber, the first valve can effectively prevent gas from leaking from the first chamber via the first valve when the first valve is in a closed state. When the second valve faces or is connected to the second chamber, the second valve can effectively prevent gas from leaking from the second chamber via the second valve when it is in a closed state. When the third valve faces or is connected to the pressure sensor, the third valve can, for example, prevent gas from leaking through the third valve in the second measurement mode when the first pressure (associated with the second measurement mode) is measured after the second chamber is filled. When the fourth valve faces or is connected to the pressure sensor, the fourth valve can effectively prevent gas from leaking through the fourth valve in the first measurement mode after the first chamber has been filled with gas and the first pressure (associated with the first measurement mode) is to be measured. Thus, a first measurement mode and a second measurement mode can be performed.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement further comprises an eighth valve, which is connected at one end to the first valve, the second valve and the gas inlet path and at another end to a further gas receiver. In particular, the eighth valve can be connected at one end (with its input side) to the input sides of the first and second valves and to the gas inlet path.

[0054] In order to prevent leakage of the second valve and / or the first valve through its seating portion after the pressure is metered or the corresponding chamber is filled, the eighth valve can be used to vent the output side of the second valve and / or the first valve to the atmosphere. Therefore, the eighth valve can be open to the atmosphere at its outlet side. The eighth valve can be a one-way valve. In this case, the eighth valve can be connected to the output sides of the first and second valves with its input side and can also be connected to the gas inlet path.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the following is applicable: the gas inlet path includes a gas inlet valve; at least one valve among the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve (especially the fifth valve and the sixth valve) includes or is a solenoid valve, especially a two-way self-locking valve.

[0056] The gas inlet valve can be opened to allow gas (from the gas container) to be filled into the first chamber or the second chamber (and / or the third chamber, as described below). The two-way latching valve can be a valve that changes its state upon receiving a current pulse. Therefore, controlling the state of the valve can be simplified. In particular, it may not be necessary to supply a continuous voltage or current to the corresponding valve to adopt the open state. Therefore, control of the arrangement can be further simplified.

[0057] According to an embodiment of the invention, the arrangement further comprises an electronic memory containing volume calibration data of the first chamber and the second chamber for use in calculating the sample volume.

[0058] The electronic memory may include volume calibration data and temperature calibration data. The volume calibration data may, for example, include the volumes of all chambers and the volumes or partial volumes of all (or some) associated gas paths. Furthermore, for example, by using the temperature calibration data, the effective temperature of any of the chambers or any of the gas paths may be inferred from one or more measured temperatures, for example, at locations close to or distant from the corresponding chamber or gas path. Thus, volume measurements can be performed according to either the first measurement mode or the second measurement mode.

[0059] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement further comprises: a metal component which is in thermal contact with the first chamber, the second chamber and at least one gas path or comprises / includes the first chamber, the second chamber and at least one gas path; and a temperature control device for controlling the temperature of the metal component to a desired temperature, wherein, in particular, at least a portion of at least one gas path is implemented as a hole in the metal component.

[0060] The metal assembly can include a single metal block, such as an aluminum block, or the metal assembly can include multiple metal assembly parts connected to each other, for example, by bolts. The first chamber and / or the second chamber (and possible third chamber) can be established as corresponding recesses in the metal assembly or metal structure, which can be achieved, for example, by milling or cutting. In this case, the metal assembly can include a first chamber, a second chamber and at least one gas path and optionally a third chamber. Therefore, the limiting walls of the corresponding chambers can be formed by the material of the metal assembly itself. In other embodiments, the metal assembly can include recesses into which different containers providing different chambers are inserted.

[0061] The temperature control device may comprise an electric heater and a cooler, in particular at least one Peltier element capable of heating and / or cooling the metal component. The metal component can provide a large heat capacity and can be a good thermal conductor. Basically, the temperature can be equal or at least very similar over the entire range of the metal component. Therefore, the temperature in different chambers and gas paths can also be essentially the same or at least very similar. Since the pressure and / or density of the gas depends exclusively or sensitively on the temperature, providing an equal temperature in all parts involved in the measurement can improve the reliability and / or accuracy of the volume determination. Providing holes in the metal component can be easily achieved. Therefore, different elements for the gas path may no longer be needed or necessary.

[0062] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement structure includes a third chamber (e.g., an adaptation chamber), which is connected to the gas supply source and provides a gas inlet path into the first gas path and the second gas path, wherein the third chamber is in thermal contact with the metal component and / or is included in the metal component.

[0063] The third chamber can also be called an adaptation chamber, which is configured to balance the gas temperature to the temperature of the first and second chambers or generally to the temperature of the metal component before the gas is introduced into the first or second chamber. When the gas contained in the third chamber is already substantially at the temperature of the metal component and in particular the temperature of the first and / or second chamber, the equilibration time for equilibrating the gas temperature after filling the first and / or second chambers can be shortened, thereby also shortening the total volume measurement time. Therefore, the output of the third chamber can provide a gas entry path. The third chamber can also be included in the metal component, for example, implemented as a recess in the metal component, which is closed, for example, by a closing plate.

[0064] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the third chamber is enclosed with a metal material that provides a higher surface area, wherein the metal material is in thermal contact with the metal component, wherein the metal material includes at least one of the following: a fiber mesh, a sintered structure, a loose material, a mesh, a flannel, a fabric, a non-woven fabric, a woven fabric, a mat. The metal material may also include metal balls, metal powder or any other metal that improves the thermal conductivity between the gas and the chamber. When the metal material is enclosed in the third chamber and in thermal contact with the metal component, the gas surrounding the metal material in the third chamber can reach the temperature of the metal component in a rapid manner. Because the temperature of the metal component substantially corresponds to or is equal to the temperature of the first chamber and the second chamber, the equilibration time for the gas to equilibrate to the temperature of the first chamber or the second chamber after filling the gas into the corresponding chamber can also be shortened. The metal material can be constructed in a variety of different ways. As long as the surface area of ​​the metal material is much larger than the surface area of ​​the metal material when the metal material is in a continuous or compact structure.

[0065] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a metal component includes the following: a first metal part including a first chamber; a second metal part including a second chamber; and a third metal part including a third chamber, wherein the first metal part is mounted to the side flat surface of the second metal part at a side flat surface, and another side flat surface of the second metal part is mounted to the side flat surface of the third metal part.

[0066] When a metal assembly is assembled from a first metal part, a second metal part, and optionally a third metal part, a simple structure is provided that is easy to manufacture. The joints between one or more flow path sections between adjacent metal parts of the metal assembly can be provided with corresponding seals, such as O-rings, to prevent leakage at the mounting joints of the metal parts. This allows for a compact arrangement.

[0067] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one valve is surface-mounted on an outer surface of a metal component. The valve can, for example, be mounted on top of the outlet of two portions of the gas path. Surface-mounting the valve, or at least one of the valves, can simplify the manufacturing process.

[0068] It should be understood that the features disclosed, described, explained or provided in the arrangement structure for measuring the volume of a solid sample, alone or in any combination, may also be applied, alone or in any combination, to the method for manufacturing the arrangement structure for measuring the volume of a solid sample according to an embodiment of the present invention, and vice versa.

[0069] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for manufacturing an arrangement structure for measuring the volume of a solid or liquid sample is provided, the method comprising: providing a first gas path including a first valve, the first gas path being connected to a first chamber for accommodating a sample via the first valve at one end and to a gas entry path at the other end; providing a second gas path including a second valve, the second gas path being connected to at least one second chamber - the at least one second chamber being capable of being connected to a sample chamber - at one end via the second valve and to the gas entry path at the other end; providing a third gas path including a third valve, the third gas path being connected to the first chamber at one end and to a pressure sensor at the other end via the third valve; and providing a fourth gas path including a fourth valve, the fourth gas path being connected to the second chamber at one end and to the pressure sensor at the other end via the fourth valve. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0070] Figure 1 schematically illustrates an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid sample according to an embodiment of the present invention as a flow diagram; and

[0071] Figure 2 shows an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 Exploded perspective view of the arrangement shown in . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] The aspects defined above and further aspects of the invention are apparent from the examples of embodiment to be described hereinafter and are explained with reference to the illustrated embodiments.The invention will be described in more detail hereinafter with reference to the illustrated examples but to which the invention is not limited.

[0073] Embodiments of the present invention provide a bidirectionally operable hydrometer. The arrangement of valves, chambers, and other components facilitates operation in both directions, for example, depending on sample type and industry standards. An advantage of this arrangement for measuring the volume of solid samples is that it can be switched without physically exchanging or changing components, thereby optimizing the operational sequence of measurements.

[0074] An arrangement 100 for measuring the volume of a solid sample 101 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a first chamber 103 for accommodating the sample 101. Furthermore, the arrangement 100 comprises at least one second chamber 105 connectable to the first chamber 103. Furthermore, the arrangement 100 comprises a first gas supply path 107 comprising a first valve 109, wherein the first gas path 107 is connected to the first chamber 103 at one end 111 via the first valve 109 and to a gas inlet path 115 at another end 113. The arrangement further comprises a second gas supply path 117 comprising a second valve 119, which is connected to the second chamber 105 at one end 121 via the second valve 119 and to the gas inlet path 115 at another end 124.

[0075] The arrangement 100 further comprises a pressure sensor 123 and a third gas measurement path 125 comprising a third valve 127, the third gas path 125 being connected at one end 129 to the first chamber 103 and at another end 139 to the pressure sensor 123 via the third valve 127. The arrangement 100 further comprises a fourth gas measurement path 133 comprising a fourth valve 135, the fourth gas path 133 being connected at one end 137 to the second chamber 105 and at another end 139 to the pressure sensor 123 via the fourth valve 135.

[0076] The arrangement 100 further comprises a controller 150 adapted to control the states of the first valve 109, the second valve 119, the third valve 127, the fourth valve 135, and in particular also the states of the fifth valve 151, the sixth valve 153, the seventh valve 155, and the eighth valve 157, to allow selective measurement of the sample volume according to the first measurement mode or the second measurement mode. Thus, the controller receives a pressure measurement signal 166 from the pressure sensor 123.

[0077] In the first measurement mode, the first chamber 103 containing the sample 101 is filled with gas from the gas inlet path 115, and the gas is then expanded into the second chamber 105. In the second measurement mode, the second chamber 105 is filled with gas from the gas inlet path 115, and the gas is then expanded into the first chamber 103 containing the sample 101. In both the first and second measurement modes, the gas is exhausted via the gas receiver 159.

[0078] The controller 150 provides valve control signals 161 to the corresponding valves to control the valves. When in the first measurement mode, the controller is adapted to, via the control signal 161: open the first valve 109 and the third valve 127 to allow the first chamber 103 to be filled with gas from the gas inlet path 115, close the first valve 109, and measure a first pressure (associated with the first measurement mode) using the pressure sensor 123. In addition, the controller opens the fourth valve 135 and optionally the seventh valve 155 to allow gas to expand into the at least one second chamber 105, and in particular, optionally also into the further second chamber 106 via the seventh valve 155. The second pressure (associated with the first measurement mode) can then be measured, and a processor 163 included in the controller 150 calculates the volume of the sample 101 based on the first and second pressures.

[0079] When in the second measurement mode, the controller 150 is adapted to open the second valve 119 and the fourth valve 135 to allow the second chamber 105 to be filled with gas from the gas inlet path (and optionally also to fill the other second chamber 106 by additionally opening the seventh valve 155). The first pressure (associated with the second measurement mode) can then be measured using the pressure sensor 123. In addition, the controller 150 opens the third valve 127 to allow gas to expand into the first chamber 103 and measures the second pressure (associated with the second measurement mode). The processor 163 is then adapted to calculate the volume of the sample 101 based on the first pressure and the second pressure (both associated with the second measurement mode).

[0080] For exhaust purposes, the arrangement 100 comprises a fifth gas exhaust path 165 comprising a fifth valve 151, wherein the fifth gas path 165 is connected at one end 167 to the first chamber 103 via the fifth valve 151 and at another end 169 to the gas receiver 159. The arrangement further comprises a sixth gas exhaust path 171 comprising a sixth valve 153, the sixth gas path 171 being connected at one end 173 to the second chamber 105 and at another end 175 to the gas receiver 159.

[0081] In the embodiment shown, the valve is realized or constructed as a one-way, two-way, self-locking valve having an input side and an output side or a supply side and an outlet side, wherein the supply side or the input side is depicted as an open circle and the output side is depicted as a closed or filled circle. Figure 1 As can be seen in FIG, the input side of first valve 109 faces first chamber 103. Furthermore, the input side of second valve 119 faces second chamber 105. Furthermore, the input side of third valve 127 faces pressure sensor 123. Furthermore, the input side of fourth valve 135 also faces pressure sensor 123. Furthermore, if third valve 127 is in an open state, the input side of fourth valve 135 is connected to first chamber 103. Furthermore, if fourth valve 135 is in an open state, the input side of third valve 127 is connected to second chamber 105.

[0082] The arrangement 100 further comprises an eighth valve 157 which is connected at one end to the first valve 109, the second valve 119 and the gas inlet path 115 and at another end to a further gas receiver 177. The arrangement 100, in particular the controller 150, comprises an electronic memory 183 which contains volume calibration data and / or temperature calibration data.

[0083] The gas path 115 includes a gas supply valve 179 connected to a gas container 181. The gas inlet path 115 may or may not include an adaptation chamber 185. Therefore, the adaptation chamber 185 is not present in the embodiment.

[0084] However, Figure 1The arrangement 100 shown in FIG also includes a third chamber 185 for adaptation purposes, which is connected to the gas supply sources 181 and 179 and provides the gas inlet path 115 to the first gas path 107 and the second gas path 117. The third chamber 185 is in thermal contact with or included in the metal component 160. The metal component 160 is also in thermal contact with or includes the first chamber 103, the second chamber 105, and the gas paths 107, 117, 133, 125, 165, 171, as well as all valves 109, 151, 153, 155, 135, 127, 119, 157. A temperature control device 162, for example comprising a Peltier element, is also provided and is in thermal contact with the metal component 160 for regulating the temperature of the metal component 160 to a desired temperature. The temperature control device 162 is controlled by a control signal 164 from the controller 150.

[0085] The third chamber 185 (if present) may have a volume in the range of, for example, 0.1 to 10 times the volume of the second chamber 105 or the first chamber 103. Figure 1 The third chamber 185 may be filled with a mesh filter (not shown) or a metal mesh filler, such as a woven wire mesh filter. It should be noted that the third chamber 185 is an optional feature of the arrangement 100 and may not be present in other embodiments of the invention.

[0086] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG, the sample chamber 103 is closed by a cover 104. In order to load the sample 101 into the first chamber 103, the cover 104 can be removed by a user.

[0087] Figure 2 An exploded perspective view shows an arrangement structure for measuring the volume of a solid sample according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Components that are similar in structure and / or function are marked with reference numerals that differ only in the first position. The description of an element that is not described in detail in a specific embodiment can be obtained by referring to the description of the corresponding element in the context of another embodiment or the drawings.

[0088] Arrangement 200 includes a metal assembly 202 comprising a first metal portion 210 including a first, non-visible chamber; a second metal portion 206 including a second, non-visible chamber; and a third metal portion 208 including a third, non-visible chamber. First metal portion 210 (in assembled arrangement 200) is mounted at a side planar surface to a side planar surface of second metal portion 206, or the other side planar surface of second metal portion 206 is mounted at a side planar surface of third metal portion 208. Thus, the first, second, and third metal portions are arranged in series.

[0089] Figure 1 Also shown is a cover 204 for closing a first chamber included in the first metal part 210. The cover 204 includes a gripping portion 212 to allow the cover 204 to be twisted or turned. The cover 204 includes a hook 216 for engaging with or disengaging from an engaging portion 214 connected to the first metal part 210.

[0090] like Figure 2 As can be seen in FIG, some or all of the gas paths are implemented through holes in the metal parts 210, 206, 208. For example, the first gas path 207, the second gas path 217, and the sixth gas path 271 are shown as holes in the respective parts. Figure 2 As can be seen in FIG, the valves are mounted on the outer surface of the metal component 202. Specifically, for example, the second valve 219 (or another valve) is surface mounted on the outer surface of the third metal part 208. The third metal part 208 can be covered with a plate 222. The first valve 209, the third valve 22, the fourth valve 235 and / or the fifth valve 251 (or other valves) can be mounted on the outer surface of the second metal part. As can be seen from FIG. Figure 2 2. It can also be seen that the sealing ring 218 provides an airtight connection between the different components when assembled. The three metal parts 210, 206, 208 can be mounted to each other using bolts 220, for example. In addition, a pressure sensor or pressure transducer 223 is shown and is also surface mounted to the metal assembly.

[0091] Embodiments of the present invention may or may not include a third metal portion 208 comprising a third chamber.

[0092] When conventional solids are to be measured, a second measurement mode can be employed, wherein the second chamber 105 (or optionally the further second chamber 106) is first filled with gas. Thereafter, after measuring the first pressure (associated with the second measurement mode), the gas can be expanded into the first chamber, i.e. the sample chamber.

[0093] If you're measuring foam or similar materials, you can use the first measurement mode. To do this, the first chamber is first pressurized, i.e., filled with gas, swapping the functions of each chamber. Thus, the pressure transducer can remain on the first chamber, but the sample is swapped from the first to the second, requiring open access to both chambers.

[0094] Several features of an instrument or arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid sample are described below.

[0095] The arrangement may have an open channel leading to only one chamber, the first chamber (or sample chamber).

[0096] This arrangement can direct gas in either direction (ie, not fixed) without reconfiguring the external connections (ie, the gas input can always be the gas input and the exhaust can always be the exhaust).

[0097] This arrangement allows the internal gas path itself to be configured to be optimal for powders, non-powders and foams.

[0098] The arrangement may comprise more than one reference volume, all of which may be used in either orientation.

[0099] The arrangement may maintain a plurality of volume calibration values ​​that are automatically recalled based on orientation and sample chamber volume.

[0100] To obtain the volume of the sample, the ambient pressure can also be used. The ambient pressure can be measured, for example, by operating a valve to connect the gas receiver 159 to the pressure sensor 123, 223, wherein the gas receiver 159 is at atmospheric pressure.

[0101] The ambient pressure can be measured, for example, by opening all valves (e.g., except the first valve 109 and / or the second valve 119 and / or the gas supply valve 179) and measuring the pressure using the pressure sensors 123, 223. To evaluate the experiment and determine the sample volume, the ideal gas law can be used. Because the number of gas molecules in the system is constant before and after expansion, the unknown sample volume Vs can be calculated using the Bomard law: the unknown sample volume can be calculated (e.g., for the first measurement mode) as:

[0102] Vs=Vc–(Va / (P1 / P2-1)),

[0103] Therein, P1 is a first pressure (eg associated with the first measurement mode), P2 is a second pressure (eg associated with the first measurement mode), Vc is the volume of the first chamber and Va is the volume of the second chamber.

[0104] The first measurement mode may be more suitable for analyzing, for example, foam. However, measuring fine powders in the first measurement mode may risk contamination of the instrument. In contrast, by using the second measurement mode suitable for fine powders, the risk of contamination may be lower.

[0105] Embodiments of the present invention provide an instrument or arrangement that supports gas gravimetric measurements in both directions (sample volume first or reference volume first), and the user can decide which direction he wants to use for a single analysis.

[0106] The sequence for the first measurement mode can be as follows: balance the pressure between the first chamber and the second chamber by opening the third valve 127 and the fourth valve 135; close the third valve 127 and the fourth valve 135; open the first valve 109 and the third valve 127 until the target pressure is obtained; close the first valve 109 and record the stable pressure value; open the fourth valve 135 and, if necessary, the seventh valve 155, and record the stable pressure value; calculate the unknown sample volume and vent the system by opening the sixth valve 153.

[0107] For measurements according to the second measurement mode, the following sequence can be used: equalize the pressure between the first and second chambers by opening the third valve 127 and the fourth valve 135; open the second valve 119 and the fourth valve 135 and, if necessary, the seventh valve 155 until the target pressure is achieved; close the second valve 119 and record the stable pressure value; open the third valve 127 and record the stable pressure value. Calculate the unknown sample volume and vent the system by opening the fifth valve 151.

[0108] An advantage over conventional hydrometers may be that the user can select the direction of the measurement method that is most suitable for the current sample.

[0109] A characteristic of various embodiments is that the flow diagram is designed so that one-way valves can also be used. One-way valves seal in only one direction. Therefore, the input side of the one-way valve may need to face the volume portion of the relevant chamber. To prevent leakage from the second valve 119 and the first valve 109 in their seating positions after pressure measurement, an eighth valve 157 can be used to vent the outlet side to atmosphere. According to other embodiments, the system can also be designed or implemented using two-way valves. In some embodiments, the eighth valve 157 may not be required.

[0110] It should be pointed out that the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, elements described in association with different embodiments may be combined.

[0111] The embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the preferred embodiments shown in the drawings and described above. On the contrary, many variations using the solutions shown and according to the principles of the present invention are possible, even in the case of fundamentally different embodiments.

Claims

1. An arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid or liquid sample, the arrangement comprising: a first chamber, the first chamber being used to accommodate the sample; at least one second chamber, at least one second chamber being connectable to the first chamber; a first gas path including a first valve, the first gas path being connected on one end to the first chamber via the first valve and on another end to a gas inlet path; a second gas path including a second valve, the second gas path being connected on one end to the second chamber via the second valve and on another end to the gas inlet path; Pressure sensor; a third gas path including a third valve, the third gas path being connected on one end to the first chamber and on another end to the pressure sensor via the third valve; and A fourth gas path includes a fourth valve, the fourth gas path being connected on one end to the second chamber and on another end to the pressure sensor via the fourth valve.

2. The arrangement according to claim 1, further comprising: a controller adapted to control a state of at least one of the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve, thereby allowing the volume of the sample to be selectively measured according to a first measurement mode or a second measurement mode, wherein, in the first measurement mode, the first chamber containing the sample is filled with gas from the gas inlet path, and the gas is later expanded into the second chamber, In the second measurement mode, the second chamber is filled with gas from the gas inlet path, and the gas is later expanded into the first chamber containing the sample.

3. The arrangement according to claim 2, wherein: In the first measurement mode and the second measurement mode, the gas is discharged via a gas receiver.

4. An arrangement according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The controller is adapted to cause the following when in the first measurement mode: opening the first valve and the third valve to allow the first chamber to be filled with gas from the gas inlet path, closing the first valve and measuring a first pressure associated with the first measurement mode using the pressure sensor; opening said fourth valve to allow said gas to expand further into at least one of said second chambers and measuring a second pressure associated with said first measurement mode, Therein, the arrangement is adapted to calculate the volume of the sample based on the first pressure and the second pressure associated with the first measurement mode.

5. The arrangement according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The controller is adapted to cause the following when in the second measurement mode: opening the second valve and the fourth valve to allow filling of at least one of the second chambers with gas from the gas inlet path, closing the second valve and measuring a first pressure associated with the second measurement mode using the pressure sensor; opening the third valve to allow the gas to expand further into the first chamber and measuring a second pressure associated with the second measurement mode, Therein, the arrangement is adapted to calculate the volume of the sample based on the first pressure and the second pressure associated with the second measurement mode. 6 . The arrangement of claim 4 , further comprising a fifth gas path having a fifth valve, the fifth gas path being connected on one end to the first chamber via the fifth valve and on the other end to a gas receiver.

7. The arrangement according to claim 6, further comprising: After measuring the second pressure associated with the first measurement mode, The fifth valve is opened to allow gas to be discharged from the first chamber and the second chamber to the gas receiver.

8. The arrangement of claim 5, further comprising a sixth gas path having a sixth valve, the sixth gas path being connected on one end to the second chamber via the sixth valve and on the other end to the gas receiver.

9. The arrangement according to claim 8, further comprising: After measuring the second pressure associated with the second measurement mode, The sixth valve is opened to allow gas to be discharged from the first chamber and the second chamber to the gas receiver.

10. The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 to 9, further comprising: A processor is adapted to calculate a volume of the sample based on at least the pressure measurement and the volumes of the first chamber and the second chamber.

11. An arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 to 9, wherein: At least one of the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve includes a one-way valve having a sealed input side.

12. The arrangement according to claim 11, wherein At least one of the following is applicable: The input side of the first valve faces / is connected to the first chamber; The input side of the second valve faces / is connected to the second chamber; The input side of the third valve faces / is connected to the pressure sensor; An input side of the fourth valve faces / is connected to the pressure sensor; When the third valve is in an open state, the input side of the fourth valve is connected to the first chamber; With the fourth valve in an open state, the input side of the third valve is connected to the second chamber.

13. The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 to 9, 12, further comprising: An eighth valve is connected to the first valve, the second valve, and the gas inlet path on one end and to another gas receiver on the other end.

14. An arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 to 9, 12, wherein: At least one of the following is applicable: The gas inlet path includes a gas supply valve; and At least one of the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve includes a solenoid valve, or at least one of the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve is a solenoid valve.

15. The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 to 9, 12, further comprising: An electronic memory containing volumetric calibration data regarding the first chamber and the second chamber for use in calculating the volume of the sample.

16. The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 to 9, 12, further comprising: a metal component in thermal contact with the first chamber, the second chamber, and at least one gas path, or the metal component includes / contains the first chamber, the second chamber, and at least one gas path; as well as A temperature control device, wherein the temperature control device is used to control the temperature of the metal component to a desired temperature. Therein, at least a portion of at least one gas path is realized as a hole in the metal component.

17. The arrangement of claim 16, further comprising: a third chamber connected to a gas supply source and providing the gas inlet path into the first gas path and the second gas path, The third chamber is in thermal contact with the metal component or is included in the metal component.

18. The arrangement of claim 17, wherein: The third chamber encloses a metallic material providing a high surface area, wherein the metallic material is in thermal contact with the metallic component, wherein the metallic material comprises at least one of the following: a fiber mesh, a sintered structure, a fabric.

19. An arrangement according to claim 17 or 18, wherein: The metal component comprises: A first metal part comprising the first chamber; a second metal part comprising the second chamber; and a third metal part comprising the third chamber, wherein the first metal part is mounted to the side flat surface of the second metal part at a side flat surface, and another side flat surface of the second metal part is mounted at the side flat surface of the third metal part.

20. An arrangement according to claim 17 or 18, wherein At least one valve is mounted on the outer surface of the metal component.

21. A method of manufacturing an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid or liquid sample, the method comprising: providing a first gas path including a first valve, the first gas path being connected on one end via the first valve to a first chamber for containing the sample and on the other end to a gas inlet path; providing a second gas path comprising a second valve, the second gas path being connected on one end via the second valve to at least one second chamber connectable to the sample chamber and on the other end to the gas inlet path; providing a third gas path including a third valve, the third gas path being connected on one end to the first chamber and on another end to a pressure sensor via the third valve; and A fourth gas path having a fourth valve is provided, the fourth gas path being connected on one end to the second chamber and on the other end to the pressure sensor via the fourth valve.

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