Sample preparation integrated automation device
By integrating automated devices for automatic feeding, grinding, tableting, and sample recovery, the problems of contamination prevention and low automation in sample preparation devices have been solved, achieving an efficient and safe sample preparation process.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202423285983.6
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-23
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-12-30
AI Technical Summary
Existing sample preparation devices are inadequate in preventing sample contamination and have a low degree of automation, making it impossible to achieve fully automated operation, which increases human error and reduces work efficiency.
An integrated automated sample preparation device was designed, including an automatic feeding module, an abrasive module, a pressing module, a dust removal module, and a negative pressure system. The entire process is automated through a control system, integrating automatic feeding, abrasive grinding, pressing, and sample recovery processes. A highly efficient dust collection system and high-strength materials are used to ensure the stability and safety of the equipment.
It achieves highly efficient automation of the sample preparation process, reduces human error, improves work efficiency, reduces labor intensity, ensures the safety of the working environment and the accuracy of the sample preparation process, and supports unattended operation.
Smart Images

Figure CN223827390U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of automatic sample preparation technology for solid granular brittle materials, and specifically relates to an integrated automated device for sample preparation. Background Technology
[0002] Solid granular brittle materials have key applications in many fields, such as ore analysis in the geological and mining industry, ceramic powder research in materials science, and catalyst particle detection in the chemical industry. In these fields, accurate sample preparation is the foundation for subsequent research such as component analysis and performance testing, as well as production control. Therefore, reliable and efficient sample preparation methods are crucial for ensuring the accuracy of scientific research and production quality in various industries.
[0003] Existing sample preparation devices are insufficient to fully meet the requirements of elemental analysis. On the one hand, many devices do not adequately consider the prevention of sample contamination in their structural design, such as imperfect dust collection systems and the ease with which cross-contamination can occur during material transfer. On the other hand, the degree of automation is low, and it is impossible to achieve fully automated operation from feeding to final sample preparation, still requiring a large amount of manual intervention. This not only increases the possibility of human error but also reduces work efficiency. Therefore, an integrated automated sample preparation device is needed to solve the above problems. Utility Model Content
[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an integrated automated sample preparation device to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.
[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides the following technical solution: an integrated automated sample preparation device, comprising an overall frame and a control system. An automatic feeding module is located at the top of the overall frame, an abrasive module is located at the top inner side of the overall frame, a pressing module is located at the bottom of the abrasive module, and a dust removal module is located on the inner side of the overall frame. The control system controls the operation of the entire device, and a negative pressure system is located at the bottom inner side of the overall frame. The automatic feeding module, abrasive module, pressing module, dust removal module, and negative pressure system are all electrically connected to the control system.
[0006] In a preferred embodiment, the automatic feeding module includes a sample turntable, a sample ring chamber, an inspection port, a pouring cylinder, a covering cylinder, and a leveling cylinder. The sample turntable is used to place samples, the sample ring chamber is used to store sample rings, and a sensor is provided on the sample ring chamber. The pouring cylinder controls the sample to be poured from the sample turntable into the abrasive module, the leveling cylinder is used to level the sample poured into the abrasive module, and the covering cylinder is used to seal the discharge chamber of the abrasive module.
[0007] In a preferred embodiment, the abrasive module includes an abrasive motor, a grinding block, an abrasive chamber, a sample inlet, a grinding aid inlet, and a bottom valve. The abrasive motor drives the abrasive ring and abrasive column in the abrasive chamber to grind the sample. The grinding block is used to assist in the abrasive process. The sample inlet is used to receive the sample delivered by the automatic feeding module. The grinding aid inlet is used to add grinding aid. The bottom valve controls the discharge of the sample at the bottom of the abrasive chamber.
[0008] In a preferred embodiment, the pressing module includes an upper pressing column, a pressure sensor, a pressing cylinder, and a pressing frame; the upper pressing column is used to apply pressure during the tableting process, the pressure sensor is used to detect relevant parameters during the pressing process, the pressing cylinder provides stable pressing pressure, and the pressing frame is used to support and fix other components of the pressing module.
[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the pressing module can withstand a pressure of 30T, and the pressing mold, pressing column, and upper pressing column are made of high-strength steel.
[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the control system includes a pre-grinding program, a dust removal program, and a positive pressure holding test program; the pre-grinding program runs before the formal abrasive is applied and is used to clean the abrasive equipment; the dust removal program runs after the formal abrasive is applied; and the positive pressure holding test program runs after tableting is completed.
[0011] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are:
[0012] This invention integrates multiple processes such as automatic feeding, grinding, tableting, testing, and sample recovery, achieving integrated continuous operation. Traditional methods require two separate grinding and tableting machines, necessitating frequent manual handling of the grinding discs for powder production and tableting, making the operation cumbersome and time-consuming. This device, through the collaborative work of its modules, significantly shortens sample preparation time and greatly improves work efficiency. The highly automated design reduces direct contact between workers and samples, lowering labor intensity. The automatic feeding module automatically adds materials according to a set program, and material transfer during grinding and tableting is also completed by mechanical devices. Operators only need to start, monitor, and perform simple maintenance on the equipment. This not only reduces the workload of operators but also avoids the risk of occupational diseases such as pneumoconiosis, improving the safety of the working environment.
[0013] This invention features a control system that enables intelligent control of the entire sample preparation process. From automatic sample feeding, grinding, tableting to testing and recovery, each step operates precisely according to a preset program. Operators only need to input relevant parameters before starting the equipment, and the equipment can automatically complete subsequent operations without the need for continuous manual monitoring of each step. The control system can automatically switch the working status of each module according to the set process, ensuring the accuracy and stability of the sample preparation process. The device can be equipped with a sample storage module to achieve unattended sample preparation, or it can be used in conjunction with automatic transportation devices such as belt conveyors to achieve intelligent control. In unattended mode, the equipment can automatically complete a series of operations according to a predetermined program, which not only improves production efficiency but also allows it to work continuously at night or during periods when it is inconvenient for personnel to operate, making it possible to achieve automated production and unmanned laboratory management. Attached Figure Description
[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the main body of this utility model;
[0015] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the automatic feeding module of this utility model;
[0016] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the abrasive module of this utility model;
[0017] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the pressing module of this utility model.
[0018] In the diagram: 1. Overall frame; 2. Automatic feeding module; 3. Abrasive module; 4. Pressing module; 5. Dust removal module; 6. Control system; 7. Negative pressure system; 201. Sample turntable; 202. Sample ring chamber; 203. Inspection port; 204. Discharge cylinder; 205. Covering cylinder; 206. Smoothing cylinder; 301. Abrasive motor; 302. Feeding block; 303. Abrasive chamber; 304. Sample inlet; 305. Grinding aid inlet; 306. Bottom valve; 401. Upper pressing column; 402. Pressure sensor; 403. Pressing cylinder; 404. Pressing frame. Detailed Implementation
[0019] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the embodiments.
[0020] The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but should not be used to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. The conditions in the embodiments can be further adjusted according to specific conditions, and simple improvements to the method of the present invention under the premise of the concept of the present invention are all within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention.
[0021] Please see Figure 1-4This utility model provides an integrated automated sample preparation device, including an overall frame 1 and a control system 6. An automatic feeding module 2 is located at the top of the overall frame 1, an abrasive module 3 is located at the top inner side of the overall frame 1, a pressing module 4 is located at the bottom of the abrasive module 3, and a dust removal module 5 is located on the inner side of the overall frame 1. The control system 6 controls the operation of the entire device, and a negative pressure system 7 is located at the bottom inner side of the overall frame 1. The automatic feeding module 2, abrasive module 3, pressing module 4, dust removal module 5, and negative pressure system 7 are all electrically connected to the control system 6. The vacuum pump of the negative pressure system 7 is selected based on its stable performance and suitable pumping rate, according to the overall negative pressure requirements of the equipment and the working environment. The vacuum pump is connected to each component requiring a negative pressure environment via pipelines. Pressure regulating valves and vacuum gauges are installed on the pipelines for adjusting and monitoring the negative pressure. The system is automatically controlled by the control system 6 based on the equipment's working status, ensuring a stable negative pressure environment throughout the sample preparation process. This prevents dust from escaping, protects the working environment and the health of operators, and promotes the transfer and separation of materials in the pipeline. The dust removal module 5 uses a high-efficiency bag filter or cyclone dust collector with high filtration efficiency, effectively collecting extremely small dust particles. The pipeline connections are tight to prevent dust leakage. The fan serves as the power source for the dust removal system, selecting appropriate airflow and pressure according to the equipment's dust removal requirements. This ensures that dust is promptly drawn from the generating area to the dust collector for processing. The dust collector's cleaning device uses automatic control to ensure that the dust collector's filtration efficiency remains at a high level, preventing dust accumulation from affecting the dust removal effect. The collected dust can be centrally processed through a dedicated collection container to prevent secondary pollution.
[0022] The automatic feeding module 2 includes a sample turntable 201, a sample ring chamber 202, an inspection port 203, a pouring cylinder 204, a covering cylinder 205, and a smoothing cylinder 206. The sample turntable 201 is used to place samples, and the sample ring chamber 202 is used to store sample rings. A sensor is installed on the sample ring chamber 202. The pouring cylinder 204 controls the sample to be poured from the sample turntable 201 into the abrasive module 3. The smoothing cylinder 206 is used to smooth the sample poured into the abrasive module 3. The covering cylinder 205 is used to seal the material discharge chamber of the abrasive module 3. The sample turntable 201 is driven by a motor, which is connected to the turntable's shaft via a reducer to precisely control the turntable's rotation angle and speed. The sample ring chamber 202 is made of transparent material for easy access. The operator observes the number of sample rings, which are equipped with sensors. The sensors determine the number of sample rings by sensing their presence or positional changes and transmit the signal to the control system 6. The pouring cylinder 204 is controlled by a solenoid valve to extend and retract. When pouring is required, the solenoid valve opens, and compressed air enters the cylinder to push the piston, causing the pouring plate to flip and pour the sample into the abrasive chamber 303. The leveling cylinder 206 is also controlled by a solenoid valve. After pouring, it levels the sample in the abrasive chamber 303 to ensure uniform sample distribution. The covering cylinder 205 is used to seal the material drop chamber of the abrasive module 3 to prevent dust from escaping and sample contamination. It has good sealing performance and is made of high-temperature and corrosion-resistant sealing materials.
[0023] The abrasive module 3 includes an abrasive motor 301, a grinding block 302, an abrasive chamber 303, a sample inlet 304, a grinding aid inlet 305, and a bottom valve 306. The abrasive motor 301 drives the abrasive ring and abrasive column in the abrasive chamber 303 to grind the sample. The grinding block 302 assists in the abrasive process. The sample inlet 304 receives the sample from the automatic feeding module 2. The grinding aid inlet 305 adds grinding aid. The bottom valve 306 controls the discharge of the sample from the bottom of the abrasive chamber 303. The abrasive motor 301 is a high-performance variable-speed motor, and its speed can be adjusted by the control system 6 according to the grinding requirements of different samples. The output shaft of the motor is directly connected to the abrasive column or through a coupling. The connection ensures stable power transmission. The grinding block 302 is made of high-strength alloy material with precise dimensions and shape, and fits tightly with the inner wall of the grinding chamber 303 to provide stable support and positioning for the grinding column. The grinding chamber 303 is made of wear-resistant material, which allows the sample and grinding aid to be fully mixed and ground in the chamber. The sample inlet 304 and the grinding aid inlet 305 are respectively equipped with precise flow control devices, such as solenoid valves and flow meters, which can accurately control the amount of sample and grinding aid added according to the preset program. The bottom valve is an electrically or pneumatically controlled valve, which can control the discharge speed and time of the sample at the bottom of the grinding chamber 303 as needed during the grinding process to ensure the smooth progress of the grinding process.
[0024] The pressing module 4 includes an upper pressing column 401, a pressure sensor 402, a pressing cylinder 403, and a pressing frame 404. The upper pressing column 401 is used to apply pressure during the tablet pressing process, the pressure sensor 402 is used to detect relevant parameters during the pressing process, the pressing cylinder 403 provides stable pressing pressure, and the pressing frame 404 is used to support and fix other components of the pressing module 4.
[0025] The pressing module 4 can withstand 30T of pressure. The pressing mold, pressing column, and upper pressing column 401 are made of high-strength steel. The upper pressing column 401 is connected to the piston rod of the pressing cylinder 403. The pressing cylinder 403 is driven by a high-precision hydraulic or pneumatic system, which can provide stable and accurate pressure. The pressure sensor 402 is installed on the pressing frame 404, corresponding to the position of the upper pressing column 401 or the pressing mold, to monitor the pressure, displacement and other parameters in real time during the pressing process, and feed the data back to the control system 6. The pressing frame 404 is welded from a high-strength steel structure, which has sufficient strength and rigidity to withstand the huge pressure during the pressing process, ensuring the stability and safety of the equipment. The pressing mold and pressing column are customized according to the specifications and requirements of the sample film, and are made of high-quality mold steel. The surface is precision machined and heat-treated, which has good wear resistance and demolding performance, ensuring the quality of the pressed film and the integrity of the film.
[0026] Control system 6 includes a pre-grinding program, a dust removal program, and a positive pressure holding test program. The pre-grinding program runs before the formal grinding process to clean the grinding equipment. The dust removal program runs after the formal grinding process. The positive pressure holding test program runs after the tablet pressing is completed. Control system 6 uses a programmable logic controller or industrial computer as the core control unit and has rich input / output interfaces, which can connect to various sensors, actuators, and other electrical devices. Operators input relevant parameters for sample preparation through a human-machine interface such as a touch screen or operation panel. The pre-grinding program and the dust removal program are pre-set with operating logic and time parameters in control system 6 and are automatically executed before and after the formal grinding process to ensure equipment cleanliness and avoid sample contamination. The positive pressure holding test program applies a certain pressure to the pressed tablet by controlling the air source and monitors the pressure change through sensors to determine the integrity of the tablet.
[0027] The working principle and usage process of this utility model are as follows: The sample enters the equipment through the automatic feeding module 2. The operator places the sample on the sample turntable 201. The control system 6 controls the sample turntable 201 to rotate to a suitable position based on the number of sample rings detected by the sensor in the sample ring chamber 202. Then, the pouring cylinder 204 is activated, pouring the sample into the abrasive chamber 303 of the abrasive module 3. In the abrasive chamber 303, according to the preset grinding program, the abrasive motor 301 starts, driving the abrasive column to rotate. At the same time, the grinding aid is added according to the set flow rate. Grinding is performed under the action of abrasive ring and abrasive column. After grinding, bottom valve 306 is opened and the sample falls into pressing module 4. In pressing module 4, pressing cylinder 403 rises according to preset pressure, and upper pressing column 401 applies pressure to the sample to press it into tablets. During the pressing process, pressure sensor 402 monitors parameters such as pressure and displacement in real time and feeds them back to control system 6. After pressing, positive pressure holding test is performed. If the quality of the tablet is qualified, the next step is carried out. If it is not qualified, the crushing module is started to crush the tablet, and the sample ring is recovered to make a new sample.
[0028] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. An integrated automated sample preparation device, comprising an overall frame (1) and a control system (6), characterized in that: The top of the overall frame (1) is provided with an automatic feeding module (2), the top of the inner side of the overall frame (1) is provided with an abrasive module (3), the bottom of the abrasive module (3) is provided with a pressing module (4), the inner side of the overall frame (1) is provided with a dust removal module (5), the control system (6) controls the operation of the entire device, the bottom of the inner side of the overall frame (1) is provided with a negative pressure system (7), and the automatic feeding module (2), abrasive module (3), pressing module (4), dust removal module (5), and negative pressure system (7) are all electrically connected to the control system (6).
2. The integrated automated sample preparation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The automatic feeding module (2) includes a sample turntable (201), a sample ring chamber (202), an inspection port (203), a pouring cylinder (204), a covering cylinder (205), and a smoothing cylinder (206). The sample turntable (201) is used to place samples, the sample ring chamber (202) is used to store sample rings, and a sensor is provided on the sample ring chamber (202). The pouring cylinder (204) controls the sample to be poured from the sample turntable (201) into the abrasive module (3). The smoothing cylinder (206) is used to smooth the sample poured into the abrasive module (3). The covering cylinder (205) is used to seal the discharge chamber of the abrasive module (3).
3. The integrated automated sample preparation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The abrasive module (3) includes an abrasive motor (301), a feed block (302), an abrasive chamber (303), a sample inlet (304), a grinding aid inlet (305), and a bottom valve (306). The abrasive motor (301) drives the abrasive ring and abrasive column in the abrasive chamber (303) to grind the sample. The feed block (302) is used to cooperate with the abrasive process. The sample inlet (304) is used to receive the sample sent by the automatic feeding module (2). The grinding aid inlet (305) is used to add grinding aid. The bottom valve (306) controls the discharge of the sample at the bottom of the abrasive chamber (303).
4. The integrated automated sample preparation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pressing module (4) includes an upper pressing column (401), a pressure sensor (402), a pressing cylinder (403), and a pressing frame (404). The upper pressing column (401) is used to apply pressure during the pressing process. The pressure sensor (402) is used to detect relevant parameters during the pressing process. The pressing cylinder (403) provides stable pressing pressure. The pressing frame (404) is used to support and fix other components of the pressing module (4).
5. The integrated automated sample preparation device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The pressing module (4) can withstand 30T pressure. The pressing mold, pressing column, and upper pressing column (401) are made of high-strength steel.
6. The integrated automated sample preparation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control system (6) includes a pre-grinding program, a dust removal program, and a positive pressure holding test program; the pre-grinding program runs before the formal grinding and is used to clean the grinding equipment; the dust removal program runs after the formal grinding; and the positive pressure holding test program runs after the tableting is completed.