Automatic sampling devices and methods

Abstract

This invention relates to an automatic sampling device and method, and more specifically, to an automatic sampling device and method that automatically removes the cap during sample collection to analyze the state of a chemical solution (medicinal liquid), and automatically reverses the sample collection container so that it can be used after rinsing with ultrapure water. Therefore, this invention prevents contamination of the medicinal liquid by the sample collection container, the cap, and adjacent objects in contact with it during sampling without being affected by external conditions, and prevents safety accidents such as errors or risks caused by human work. Furthermore, this invention is improved to enhance the reliability of sampling.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an automatic sampling device and an automatic sampling method, and more specifically, to an automatic sampling device and an automatic sampling method in which the container for sampling is automatically reversed after the lid is automatically separated, and the lid and container are cleaned with ultrapure water or concentrate when the sample is collected to analyze the state of the chemical solution (chemical liquid). Therefore, the chemical solution can be prevented from contaminating the container, lid or surrounding environment during the sampling process without being affected by external conditions.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an automatic sampling device and an automatic sampling method, which can prevent safety accidents such as errors or dangers caused by manual work during sampling and improve the reliability of sampling work. Background Technology

[0003] Typically, chemical solutions used in various industrial sectors and semiconductor manufacturing processes are sampled for characterization and analysis of concentration, composition, etc.

[0004] In this case, sampling is performed after the chemical solution sample is placed in the container. Clean water is added to the container, the container is capped, and then it is cleaned by shaking. Afterward, the clean water is removed from the container, and then the chemical solution sample to be sampled is placed into the container.

[0005] In this situation, if the chemical solution is sampled without cleaning the container, the sample will be difficult to analyze accurately and the reliability of the sampling analysis will be reduced because the chemical solution sample will be contaminated by substances (including components) remaining in the container.

[0006] In addition, contaminants remaining in the container may include particles, organic carbon, oil, insoluble substances, and other unwanted substances.

[0007] For these reasons, the container where the sample will be placed must be cleaned directly before sampling.

[0008] At the same time, as mentioned above, traditional container cleaning methods require great care because workers must manually clean the sample containers in their hands.

[0009] Furthermore, if the substances remaining in the sampling container are toxic or fatal to humans, the residue can splash or contaminate workers' hands or other bodies, potentially causing loss of life. Therefore, traditional container cleaning methods are very weak in preventing accidents.

[0010] Therefore, the applicant of this invention has filed the "automatic sampling device" disclosed in Korean Patent Application No. 10-2018-0102784 (August 30, 2018).

[0011] The applicant's developed technology can improve cleaning efficiency and prevent accidents by automatically reversing and cleaning the sampling container.

[0012] However, the applicant's development technology is in the intermediate stage between semi-automation and full automation, and its limitation is that workers must wear arm gloves to manually operate the sampling device and separate the lid from the container.

[0013] Therefore, the present invention, as a fully automated sampling system, requires a technological leap that automates all sampling processes. Summary of the Invention

[0014] Technical issues

[0015] This invention addresses the aforementioned problems in the prior art, aiming to provide an automatic sampling device and method. Because the device and method are used after automatic cap separation, the container for sample collection is automatically inverted. When collecting samples to analyze the state of the chemical solution (chemical liquid), the cap and container are cleaned with ultrapure water or the original solution. Therefore, during sampling, contamination from the container, cap, or surrounding environment by the chemical solution can be prevented without being affected by external conditions. Another objective is to provide an automatic sampling device and method that prevents accidents such as errors or hazards caused by manual operation during sampling and improves the reliability of the sampling process.

[0016] Technical solution

[0017] To achieve the above objectives, an automatic sampling device is provided, comprising: a container standby unit (20) for preparing multiple containers (BT) before testing, and for sequentially rotating the container standby unit (20) to select a container (BT) for sample extraction; a container transfer unit (40) for holding the container (BT) selected by the container standby unit (20), transferring the container to a sampling chamber (300), and automatically reversing the container; and a cap separation unit (30) for automatically opening and closing the cap (CAP) of the container (BT) transferred from the container transfer unit (40) in the sampling chamber (300).

[0018] In this configuration, a container spare unit (20) is disposed in a container spare chamber (200), which is located on one side of the upper part of the cuboid shell body (100). A container transfer unit (40) is installed in a lower mechanical chamber (400), which is located on the opposite side of the container spare chamber (200). A sampling chamber (300) is located in the space between the container spare chamber (200) and the lower mechanical chamber (400).

[0019] In addition, an openable sealing door (DR) is installed vertically between the container spare chamber (200) and the sampling chamber (300).

[0020] In addition, the automatic sampling device also includes: an upper mechanical chamber (500), in which a drive unit for driving the container standby unit (20) and the lid separation unit (30) is installed above the container standby chamber (200) and the lower mechanical chamber (400); and a processing chamber (600) having auxiliary devices such as pipes, devices, and control devices.

[0021] In addition, the container spare room (200), the lower machinery room (400), the upper machinery room (500) and the processing room (600) are completely divided and separated by partition walls (W).

[0022] In addition, the container standby unit (20) includes: a rotor (240) for rotating the containers (BT) prepared in the container standby chamber (200) sequentially by a predetermined angle; a container seat plate (220) being a plate-shaped member on which a container (BT) for holding a sample solution is mounted; and a rotary motor (260) for rotating the rotor (240).

[0023] Furthermore, a rotating guide plate (230) with a circular hole (232) on the open side is mounted above the container seat plate (220) and spaced apart from the container seat plate (220), and a rotor rotating shaft (250) is mounted to pass through the circular hole (232) and the container seat plate (220).

[0024] Furthermore, the lower part of the rotor shaft (250) is supported by a bearing (222) provided in the container seat plate (220), and the upper part is rotatably connected to a rotary motor (260), and the rotor (240) is fixed to the rotor shaft (250).

[0025] In addition, the bottom surface (210) of the container seat plate is provided with a downwardly recessed solution receiving portion (DP).

[0026] Additionally, the base plate is formed in the sampling chamber (300) at the same height as the container seat plate (220). The base plate includes: a cap cleaning section (CCP) that contacts the cap (CAP) and is capable of cleaning the cap by spraying solution through a solution nozzle; and a container cleaning section (BCP) that inverts the container (BT) and is capable of cleaning the container (BT) by spraying solution upward through a solution nozzle.

[0027] In addition, a sensor is installed on the top surface of the container spare chamber (200) to detect whether the container (BT) is installed in the container mounting space between the rotors (240).

[0028] In addition, the container transfer unit (40) includes: an adsorption cylinder (410); an adsorption stage (450) for performing vacuum adsorption on a container (BT) selected from the container standby unit (20) and moving it to the sampling chamber (300) according to the operation of the adsorption cylinder (410); and a reversing motor (M) for rotating and driving the adsorption stage (450) to reverse the container (BT) and clean the container (BT) or to make the container (BT) upright to hold the sample solution.

[0029] In addition, side guides (420) are provided on both sides of the adsorption cylinder (410), and sliders (430) that slide according to the operation of the adsorption cylinder (410) are respectively assembled on the side guides (420), and a reverse motor (M) is fixed to the sliders (430).

[0030] Additionally, the reverse motor (M) is provided with an operating lever (440), the adsorption stage (450) is fixed to the end of the operating lever (440), and one or more adsorption plates (460) of the container (BT) for vacuum adsorption are mounted on the adsorption stage (450).

[0031] In addition, the adsorption stage (450) is assembled and fixed to the operating rod (440) which is exposed at one end of the sampling chamber (300) after passing through the partition wall (W) between the sampling chamber (300) and the lower mechanical chamber (400).

[0032] Furthermore, the adsorption cylinder (410) is a multi-stage cylinder capable of stopping at three or more points.

[0033] In addition, the front surface of the adsorption stage (450) is circular, and the adsorption plate (460) is formed by dispersing and arranging multiple plates for vacuum adsorption by drawing air, or arranged in a strip along the periphery.

[0034] In addition, the operating lever (440) is formed as a hollow structure and has a vacuum sensing tube that allows the adsorption plate (460) to perform vacuum adsorption through the hollow part, as well as wires for the sensor.

[0035] Furthermore, a sealed container (470) is mounted on the wall surface of the lower mechanical chamber (400) in the partition wall (W), and an operating lever (440) passes through the partition wall (W) to seal around the operating lever (440) when the operating lever (440) is operated.

[0036] In addition, a liquid level sensor (480) for detecting the liquid level of the sample solution contained in the container (BT) is mounted on the upper side of the adsorption stage (450).

[0037] Additionally, the lid separation unit (30) includes: a clamp fixing tube (320) having a lid clamp 310 fixed at its end; a drive motor (350) having a drive gear (352) gearedly connected to a driven gear (322), the driven gear (322) being attached to the clamp fixing tube (320) to rotate the clamp fixing tube (320); and a clamp operating cylinder (340) for operating the clamp. A cylinder (340) is connected to a gripper operating lever (342), which is installed inside a gripper fixing tube (320) to perform a gripping operation of the cover gripper (310); a fixed base (330) is formed in the upper mechanical chamber (500) and a drive motor (350) and a gripper operating cylinder (340) are installed therein; and a base lifting cylinder (380) causes the fixed base (330) to move vertically.

[0038] In addition, the vertical width of the driven gear (322) is greater than the vertical width of the driving gear (352).

[0039] In addition, the spring (324) is inserted between the driven gear (322) and the lower end of the fixed base (330).

[0040] In addition, the cover separation unit (30) also includes: an LM guide (370) which is mounted on one side of the upper mechanical chamber (500); and a slider (360) which is inserted into the LM guide (370) to slide up and down, wherein a fixed base (330) fixed to the slider (360) moves vertically according to the operation of a base lifting cylinder (380) installed between the LM guides (370).

[0041] Additionally, the lid holder (310) includes: a fixing body (312) having a two-part structure and fixed around a holder fixing tube (320); a vertical flow block (314) disposed inside the fixing body (312), fixed to the end of a holder operating rod (342) inserted through the holder fixing tube (320), and having inclined grooves (INC) formed on both sides; a horizontal flow block (316) assembled to the inclined grooves (INC) to be able to slide in an inclined direction; and a clamping part (318) integrally formed on the lower end of the horizontal flow block (316) with a curvature and having a concave-convex surface on the inner circumferential surface.

[0042] In addition, the base lifting cylinder (380) is a multi-stage rodless cylinder with an embedded rod, and only a part of the base lifting cylinder protrudes from the cylinder body.

[0043] In addition, the door (DR) includes: a pair of door guides (270) mounted on both sides; door lifting cylinders (280) mounted on both sides of the door guides (270); and lifting cylinder rods (282) connected to the door lifting cylinders (280), and the upper end of the door (DR) is connected to the lifting cylinder rods (282), wherein the door (DR) rises and falls to open and close according to the raising and lowering of the lifting cylinder rods (282).

[0044] Furthermore, the devices for transferring from the upper mechanical chamber (500) and the lower mechanical chamber (400) to the container spare chamber (200) or the sampling chamber (300) are all formed as rods with a circular cross-section.

[0045] In another aspect of the invention, a method for automatically sampling a solution using an automatic sampling device is provided, the automatic sampling device comprising: a container spare chamber (200); a sampling chamber (300) for cleaning a container (BT) and a cap (CAP) and holding a sample solution; a lower mechanical chamber (400) located on the opposite side of the container spare chamber (200) and in which a container transfer unit (40) is installed; and an upper mechanical chamber (500) having a drive mechanism for driving the container spare unit (20) and a cap separation unit (30) at the upper part of the sampling chamber (300), the method comprising the step of arranging a container (BT) having a cap (CAP) between rotors (240) of the container spare unit (20) disposed in the container spare chamber (200). The container (BT) is prepared for sampling in the space; after vacuum adsorption of the container (BT) by the adsorption stage (450) of the container transfer unit (40), the container (BT) is moved to the open position of the lid (CAP) on the sampling chamber (300); the lid holder (310) of the lid separation unit (30) is lowered to hold the lid (CAP), separating the lid (CAP) from the container (BT), and the separated lid (CAP) is raised; the adsorption stage (450) is moved backward to move the container (BT) (the lid (CAP) separated from the container (BT)) to the sampling position, and the lid (CAP) is lowered; the reverse motor (M) of the container transfer unit (40) is rotated to reverse the container (BT) by 180°, and the lid (CAP) and the inside of the container (BT) are cleaned with solution or ultrapure water; and the reversed container (BT) is upright and the sample solution is injected into the container (BT).

[0046] In addition, the automatic sampling method also includes the following steps: opening the door (DR) installed between the container spare chamber (200) and the sampling chamber (300) before performing the step of moving the container (BT) to the lid open position; and closing the door (DR) after performing the step of moving the container (BT) to the lid open position.

[0047] In addition, the automatic sampling method also includes the following steps: when the step of injecting the sample solution into the container (BT) is completed, while holding the cap (CAP), the cap holder (310) is lifted, the adsorption stage (450) is advanced to move the container (BT) under the cap (CAP), and the cap (CAP) is locked on the container (BT); the cap holder (310) is lifted by releasing the clamping state, and the door (DR) is opened; the adsorption stage (450) is advanced to release the container (BT) containing the sample solution into the container spare chamber (200), and the adsorption stage (450) is returned to its original position by releasing the vacuum adsorption state; and the rotor (240) is rotated to extract the sampled container (BT) and wait for the next container (BT).

[0048] [Beneficial Effects]

[0049] The automatic sampling device and automatic sampling method according to the present invention can achieve the following effects.

[0050] First, the present invention can provide a fully automated system that can fully automate a series of processes, including opening the lid after providing the sample container, cleaning the lid and container, performing sampling, and releasing the sample after closing the lid.

[0051] Secondly, the container and lid containing the sample are rotated 180 degrees for cleaning, and the lid, as well as the inside and edges of the container, are thoroughly cleaned, significantly improving cleaning efficiency.

[0052] Third, because the sampling process is completely automated and eliminates manual operation, this invention can prevent accidents from occurring.

[0053] Fourth, the present invention can prevent the deterioration of sample solutions and promote more accurate sample analysis because it provides fully automated cleaning in a closed space and has excellent residue removal capabilities. Attached Figure Description

[0054] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an automatic sampling apparatus according to the present invention.

[0055] Figure 2 and Figure 3 These are partial views illustrating the main parts of an automatic sampling device from different angles.

[0056] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 A partial sectional view taken by line AA.

[0057] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the operational relationship between the rotor and the gate of the automatic sampling device according to the present invention.

[0058] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A planar sectional view.

[0059] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 Side sectional view.

[0060] Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating the automatic sampling apparatus according to the present invention.

[0061] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the operational relationship of the cap holder of the automatic sampling device according to the present invention.

[0062] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the operational relationship of the adsorber in the automatic sampling apparatus according to the present invention.

[0063] Figures 11 to 15 This is a process sequence diagram illustrating how to perform automatic sampling using the automatic sampling device according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0064] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0065] In the description of this invention, specific structural or functional interpretations are presented only for the purpose of explaining embodiments that depend on the concept of this invention.

[0066] Therefore, embodiments based on the concept of the present invention can be implemented in various forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described in this specification or application.

[0067] Furthermore, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the specific forms disclosed, and should be understood to include every variation, equivalent, and substitution within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0068] like Figures 1 to 3 Therefore, the automatic sampling device according to the present invention includes a cuboid shell body 100.

[0069] In addition, a container spare chamber 200, a sampling chamber 300, a lower mechanical chamber 400, an upper mechanical chamber 500, and a processing chamber 600 are provided above the shell body 100.

[0070] In particular, a vertically operable sealing door (DR) is installed between the container spare chamber 200 and the sampling chamber 300, and the remaining components are completely separated and partitioned by a partition wall (W).

[0071] In addition, the container reserve chamber 200 is a space prepared for holding containers (BT) of sample solutions and is ready for use.

[0072] To prepare the container (BT), such as Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the container seat plate 220 of the container spare chamber 200 is used to separate the space above the container seat plate 220 from the space below the container seat plate 220, and the solution container (DP) is recessed downward from the bottom surface 210 located below the container seat plate 220.

[0073] The solution container (DP) is used to hold and collect the solution used when cleaning the cap (CAP) and container (BT).

[0074] In addition, the container base plate 220 is disposed above the bottom surface 210 at a distance from the bottom surface 210.

[0075] The container seat plate 220 is a plate-shaped member, and a container (BT) for holding the sample solution is mounted on the container seat plate.

[0076] In addition, the rotating guide plate 230 is disposed above the container seat plate 220 at a distance from the container seat plate 220.

[0077] In particular, the rotating guide plate 230 includes a circular hole 232 with an opening on one side (see...). Figure 3 ).

[0078] The opening of the circular hole 232 is near the door (DR).

[0079] This is because the container (BT container) must be removed when the door (DR) is opened.

[0080] In addition, the rotor shaft 250 is mounted by passing through the center of the circular hole 232 and the container seat plate 220.

[0081] In this case, a portion of the lower end of the rotor shaft 250 is supported by a bearing 222 disposed in the container seat plate 220 (see...). Figure 4 It can be rotatably supported and fixed.

[0082] Additionally, the bushing (BUS) is fixed to the rotor rotation shaft 250, and the rotor 240 is integrally formed around the bushing (BUS).

[0083] In this case, preferably, the rotor 240 has a shape containing at least one container receiving slot (e.g., cross-shaped), and this means that the shape is formed such that containers (BT) can be inserted at 90° intervals, and the rotor acts as a turntable.

[0084] Here, in order to facilitate insertion and clamping of the container (BT), the rotor 240 may have a bend formed at the intersection of the rotor 240.

[0085] Furthermore, the rotor 240 is preferably disposed in the circular hole 232.

[0086] Furthermore, the rotor shaft 250 is exposed to the interior of the upper machinery chamber 500 by passing through the partition wall (W) between the container spare chamber 200 and the upper machinery chamber 500, and is connected to the rotary motor 260 to be rotated installed in the upper machinery chamber 500.

[0087] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, a partition is formed separately inside the sampling chamber 300 at the same height as the container seat plate 220 to form the bottom plate portion of the sampling chamber 300, and the partition is arranged on the top of the bottom surface 210 on the solution container portion (DP).

[0088] Additionally, the sampling chamber (300) includes: a cap cleaning section (CCP) in which the cap (CAP) is in close contact with the bottom plate of the sampling chamber 300 so as to clean the cap by spraying cleaning liquid through a solution nozzle; and a container cleaning section (BCP) which can clean the container (BT container) by spraying cleaning liquid from the bottom to the top through a solution nozzle when the container is upside down.

[0089] In this case, the cleaning fluid that falls during the cleaning process is contained and collected in the solution container (DP).

[0090] Alternatively, a cleaning solution nozzle can be installed in the center of the cap cleaning section (CCP) and the container cleaning section (BCP).

[0091] At the same time, such as Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the door (DR) is slidably mounted in the vertical direction by a pair of door guides 270 mounted on both sides of it.

[0092] At this point, the door guide 270 is naturally installed to form a seal in order to prevent contamination caused by the connection between the container spare chamber 200 and the sampling chamber 300.

[0093] Additionally, door lifting cylinders 280 are mounted on each outer side of door guides 270, lifting cylinder rods 282 are mounted to be connected to door lifting cylinders 280, and the upper end of the door (DR) is connected to the end of the lifting cylinder rod 282.

[0094] Therefore, the door (DR) is opened and closed simultaneously as the lifting cylinder rod 282 rises and falls.

[0095] Additionally, cushioning material is installed at the top and bottom of the door (DR) to improve sealing performance (sealing).

[0096] In addition, the sampling chamber 300 is equipped with a lid holder 310, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the cover holder 310 is fixed to the end of the holder fixing tube 320.

[0097] In addition, the upper end of the clamp fixing tube 320 is supported by a bearing (BA) with sealing material (O-ring, etc.), which is configured to rotate into place on the fixing base 330 by passing through the partition wall (W) of the partition sampling chamber 300 and the upper mechanical chamber 500.

[0098] In this case, the clamp operating cylinder 340 is fixed to the upper end of the clamp fixing tube 320.

[0099] Additionally, the clamping operating rod 342, which is connected to the clamping operating cylinder 340, is connected to the cover clamping device 310 by passing vertically through the clamping fixing tube 320.

[0100] In other words, the bearing (BA) does not fix the clamp fixing tube 320 in place, but rather supports the rotation of the clamp fixing tube 320. Therefore, the clamp fixing tube 320 is configured to move vertically together with the clamp operating cylinder 340.

[0101] This is because the lid (CAP) can only be opened when it rises from the container (BT) by an amount that is caused by the spiral slippage that occurs when the lid (CAP) is opened.

[0102] In addition, the fixed base 330 is installed in the upper machine room 500.

[0103] Specifically, the driven gear 322 is integrally fixed to the upper end of the clamp fixing tube 320, wherein there is a gap between the two, and the spring 324 is located between the driven gear 322 and the fixing base 330.

[0104] Spring 324 is inserted into clamp fixing tube 320.

[0105] Therefore, when the clamp fixing tube 320 descends while rotating to lock the cap (CAP), the cap (CAP) is locked more tightly while compensating for the distance movement caused by the sliding movement and providing elastic cushioning.

[0106] Furthermore, the drive motor 350 is mounted on the upper surface of the fixed base 330, the motor shaft of the drive motor 350 is arranged to pass through the fixed base 330, and the drive gear 352 is fixed to the motor shaft.

[0107] In addition, the driving gear 352 is geared to the driven gear 322.

[0108] In this case, the vertical width of the driven gear 322 should be more than twice the vertical width of the driving gear 352. The driven gear 322 moves up and down together with the clamp fixing tube 320 because it is fixed to the clamp fixing tube 320, but the driving gear 352 does not.

[0109] Additionally, slider 360 is fixed to base 330. Slider 360 is inserted into LM guide 370 to slide up and down along LM guide 370.

[0110] The LM guide 370 is mounted upright on one side of the upper machine room 500, and the base lifting cylinder 380 is mounted between the LM guides 370.

[0111] The base lifting cylinder 380 can be a multi-stage cylinder. The base lifting cylinder 380 is a rodless cylinder in which the rod is embedded within the cylinder, and only a portion of the base lifting cylinder 380 protrudes from the cylinder body. A fixed base 330 is attached to the protruding portion to provide sufficient stroke within a confined space.

[0112] In addition, such as Figure 9 The diagram shows an enlarged view of a portion of a lid holder 310, illustrated in a circle. The lid holder 310 includes: a fixing body 312 having a two-part structure and fixed to a holder fixing tube 320 in the form of surrounding a holder fixing tube 320; a vertical flow block 314 disposed inside the fixing body 312, fixed to the end of a holder operating rod 342 inserted through the holder fixing tube 320, and having inclined grooves (INC) formed on both sides; a horizontal flow block 316 assembled to the inclined grooves (INC) to be able to slide in an inclined direction; and a clamping portion 318 integrally formed on the lower end of the horizontal flow block 316 with a curvature and having a concave-convex surface on its inner circumferential surface.

[0113] In this case, the radially symmetrical portion of the fixed body 312 should be opened so that the horizontal flow block 316 can be retracted.

[0114] Therefore, when the gripper operating cylinder 340 is operated to lower the gripper operating lever 342, the fixing body 312 fixed thereon remains in a fixed state because the gripper fixing tube 320 is fixed.

[0115] As the vertical flow block 314, which is fixed to the lower end of the clamping operating lever 342, is lowered, the horizontal flow block 316, which is inclinedly engaged with the vertical flow block, is naturally pushed and unfolded.

[0116] The above situation occurs when releasing the clamped cap (CAP). Conversely, when the gripper operating lever 342 rises, the horizontal flow block 316 retracts to clamp the cap (CAP).

[0117] On the other hand, such as Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, the adsorption cylinder 410 is installed in the lower mechanical chamber 400, and the adsorption cylinder 410 is the same rodless cylinder as the base lifting cylinder.

[0118] In addition, side guides 420 are arranged on both sides of the adsorption cylinder 410, and sliders 430 are assembled to the side guides 420 to be able to slide.

[0119] Additionally, the cylinder rod (not shown) released from the adsorption cylinder 410 is connected to and fixed to the slider 430.

[0120] Therefore, the slider 430 reciprocates linearly along the side guide 420 according to the driving direction of the adsorption cylinder 410.

[0121] In this case, the adsorption cylinder 410 is a multi-stage cylinder, especially a multi-stage cylinder that can stop at three points.

[0122] The reason for using a multi-stage cylinder is to accurately position the lid (CAP) and the container when it is reversed 180° while the container (BT) is being suctioned.

[0123] In addition, the reverse motor (M) is fixed on the slider 430, the operating rod 440, which serves as the motor shaft, is set on the reverse motor (M), the adsorption table 450 is fixed to the end of the operating rod 440, and a plurality of adsorption plates 460 are mounted on the adsorption table 450.

[0124] Here, since the adsorption stage 450 must be located inside the sampling chamber 300, the operating rod 440 passes through the partition wall (W) between the sampling chamber 300 and the lower mechanical chamber 400 and is assembled and fixed to the end of the partition wall.

[0125] In this configuration, the front side of the adsorption stage 450 is circularly machined to facilitate clamping of the container (BT), and the adsorption plate 460 is formed as a plate for vacuum suction by drawing air. Multiple adsorption plates 460 can be distributed as shown, or they can be arranged in a strip along the perimeter. Additionally, any other deformable examples of the adsorption stage 450 can be modified.

[0126] In addition, the operating lever 440 has a hollow structure and a vacuum sensing tube that allows the adsorption plate 460 to perform vacuum adsorption through the hollow part, as well as control lines such as wires for sensors.

[0127] In addition, a sealed container 470 can be installed on the wall surface of the partition wall (W) through which the operating lever 440 of the lower machine room 400 passes.

[0128] The sealed container 470 is configured such that the operating lever 440 passes through it so as to perfectly prevent smoke from being introduced into the lower mechanical chamber 400 through the circumferential gap when the operating lever 440 moves in and out of the sampling chamber 300.

[0129] The reason for blocking the smoke is that a large amount of smoke is generated when the solution is sampled in the sampling chamber 300, and if some of the smoke is introduced into the lower mechanical chamber 400, the mechanical devices, which are mostly made of metal, are easily corroded, shortening their service life.

[0130] Additionally, a liquid level sensor 480, serving as a liquid level detection sensor, is installed on the upper side of the adsorption stage 450. The liquid level sensor 480 detects whether the sample solution contained in the container (BT) has reached a predetermined liquid level and stops the injection of sample solution to prevent sample solution from overflowing.

[0131] Additionally, the reverse motor (M) performs the function of reversing the container (BT) 180° in order to clean the container (BT).

[0132] In other words, the edge (lip) of the container (BT) is rotated 180° so that its edge faces down.

[0133] Then, a solution or ultrapure water is sprayed from the bottom to clean all the edges and the inside of the container (BT), and the used cleaning solution drips down to be collected in the solution container (DP).

[0134] In addition, the processing chamber 600 is a space equipped with pipes, devices, control devices, etc., for cleaning the lid or container or sampling the solution in the container by using the device or solution or ultrapure water, so as to continuously draw in and safely discharge the fumes in each chamber and the mechanical chamber.

[0135] In addition, if necessary, the entire sampling chamber 300 is sprayed with ultrapure water to clean the sampling chamber 300 periodically.

[0136] In this configuration, the invention is controlled to sample by the following method after cleaning all containers (BT), lids (CAP), edges of containers (BT), and contact portions of containers before sampling.

[0137] For example, such as Figure 11 As shown, the container (BT) sealed with a lid (CAP) is installed in the empty space between the rotors 240.

[0138] Then, as shown in the figure, multiple containers (BTs) are in a ready state to hold samples.

[0139] In this case, a sensor (e.g., a photoelectric sensor) capable of detecting the presence of the container (BT) on the partition wall (W), which is the top surface above the empty space between the rotors 240 where the container (BT) is positioned, can be further installed, and the efficiency of processing control can be improved by the sensor.

[0140] Continuously, the door lifting cylinder 280 is operated to raise the door (DR). Therefore, when the door (DR) is open, the container spare chamber 200 and the sampling chamber 300 are connected to each other.

[0141] In this state, the adsorption stage 450 moves toward the container (BT) and then performs vacuum adsorption when the adsorption stage 450 comes into contact with the container (BT).

[0142] At this time, the adsorption stage 450 is driven by the operation of the adsorption cylinder 410, and vacuum adsorption is performed by drawing air through the adsorption plate 460.

[0143] When the container (BT) is adsorbed, the adsorption stage 450 moves backward in the first stage.

[0144] Here, the first stage of moving backward refers to moving backward to a position where the cap (CAP) can be attached / removed.

[0145] When the first phase of moving backward is completed, such as Figure 12 As shown, the door (DR) descends to seal the sampling chamber 300.

[0146] When the door (DR) is closed and the sampling chamber 300 is closed, the cap holder 310 descends to hold the cap (CAP).

[0147] When the base lifting cylinder 380 is operated, the slider 360 descends along the LM guide 370, the fixed base 330 fixed on the slider 360 also descends, and the clamp fixing tube 320 installed on the fixed base 330 also descends together with the fixed base 330, causing the cover clamp 310 to descend.

[0148] Additionally, the cap holder 310 inserted into the cap (CAP) raises the holder operating lever 342 simultaneously with the operation of the holder operating cylinder 340. A vertical flow block 314 fixed to the end of the holder operating lever 342 pulls and rises along with a horizontal flow block 316 engaged with the vertical flow block 314. A clamping portion 318 integrally provided at the lower end of the horizontal flow block 316 makes tight contact with the periphery of the cap (CAP) to clamp the cap (CAP).

[0149] Once the cap (CAP) is clamped, the cap (CAP) separates from the container (BT).

[0150] When the drive motor 350 rotates, the drive gear 352 rotates in response to the rotation of the drive motor 350. Then, the driven gear 322, which meshes with the drive gear, rotates to rotate the clamp fixing tube 320. Because the cap clamp 310, which is installed at the lower end of the clamp fixing tube 320, rotates while clamping the cap (CAP), the cap (CAP) is opened to separate from the container.

[0151] In this case, since the clamp fixing tube 320 must rise while rotating, the vertical gear width of the driven gear 322 is greater than the vertical gear width of the driving gear 352, so that the gear connection between the driving gear 352 and the driven gear is maintained even when the driven gear 322 rises while rotating.

[0152] Next, when the lid (CAP) is separated, the fixed base 330 is raised by the operation of the base lifting cylinder 380, so that the lid (CAP) is raised above the container (BT) to be in standby mode.

[0153] Next, as Figure 13 As shown, the adsorption stage 450 moves backward via the adsorption cylinder 410 to move the container (BT) to the sampling position.

[0154] In this context, the sampling location refers not only to the location where the sample solution is injected into the container (BT), but also to the location where the container (BT) is cleaned by rotating it 180°.

[0155] When the container (BT) reaches the sampling location, the cap (CAP) is lowered to be placed on the cap cleaning section (CCP).

[0156] Furthermore, when the reverse motor (M) rotates to reverse the container (BT) 180°, the edge of the container (BT) is positioned on the container cleaning section (BCP). In other words, the container (BT) is reversed.

[0157] Afterward, spray the solution (undiluted sample solution) or ultrapure water to clean the inside and edges of the cap (CAP) and container (BT).

[0158] When cleaning is complete, the reverse motor (M) rotates 180° in the opposite direction to the reverse direction to make the reverse container (BT) stand upright.

[0159] Next, the sample solution is injected into the container (BT).

[0160] In this case, when the level sensor 480 detects the level of the sample solution, the injection of the sample solution is stopped.

[0161] When the injection of the sample solution is complete, such as Figure 14As shown, while holding the cap (CAP), the cap holder 310 is lifted, and the adsorption cylinder 410 is operated to move the adsorption stage 450 forward, thereby placing the container (BT) under the cap (CAP).

[0162] When the container (BT) is under the lid (CAP), the lid (CAP) descends to land on the edge of the container (BT) and then locks with a rotation.

[0163] like Figure 15 As shown, after the clamping state is released, the lid clamp 310 is lifted and the door (DR) is opened.

[0164] When the door (DR) opens, the adsorption stage 450 moves forward again into the container spare chamber 200, and then inserts the container (BT) into the container mounting space between the rotors 240 to release the vacuum adsorption, and then returns to its original position. Afterwards, the door (DR) descends to seal the sampling chamber 300.

[0165] Additionally, when a container (BT) filled with a sample solution is installed in the container mounting space between rotors 240, rotors 240 rotate to wait for the next container.

[0166] As described above, when sampling harmful chemical solutions, the fully automated system of the present invention can perform sampling safely and quickly, thereby preventing sample solution deterioration, making sample analysis more accurate, and preventing accidents.

Claims

1. An automatic sampling device, wherein, The container backup unit (20) is disposed in the container backup chamber (200) arranged on one side of the upper part of the cuboid shell body (100). The container backup unit (20) is used to prepare multiple containers (BT) for extracting samples before testing, and the container backup unit (20) is rotated in sequence to select the container (BT) for extracting samples. The container transfer unit (40) is located in the lower mechanical chamber (400) on the opposite side of the container spare chamber (200). The container transfer unit (40) clamps the container (BT) selected by the container spare unit (20) for sample extraction, transfers the container horizontally to the sampling chamber (300), and automatically reverses the container in place. A vertically opening sealing door (DR) is provided between the sampling chamber (300) and the container spare chamber (200) in the space between the container spare chamber (200) and the lower mechanical chamber (400); The automatic sampling device is equipped with a lid separation unit (30), which automatically clamps, separates, raises and lowers, and installs the lid (CAP) of the container (BT) for sample extraction transferred from the container transfer unit (40) to the sampling chamber (300). The lid separation unit (30) includes: A clamp fixing tube (320) having a cap clamp (310) fixed at its end; A drive motor (350) having a drive gear (352) gearedly connected to a driven gear (322), the driven gear (322) being attached to the clamp fixing tube (320) to rotate the clamp fixing tube (320); A clamping cylinder (340) is connected to a clamping rod (342) installed inside the clamping fixing tube (320) to perform the clamping operation of the cover clamp (310). A fixed base (330) is formed in an upper machine chamber (500) and has a drive motor (350) and a gripper operating cylinder (340) mounted in the upper machine chamber (500); and A base lifting cylinder (380) causes the fixed base (330) to move vertically. The lid holder (310) includes: A fixing body (312) having a two-part structure and fixed in the form of surrounding the clamp fixing tube (320); A vertical flow block (314) is disposed inside the fixed body (312), fixed to the end of the clamp operating rod (342) inserted through the clamp fixing tube (320), and has inclined grooves (INC) formed on both sides. A horizontal flow block (316) is assembled to the inclined groove (INC) to be able to slide in the inclined direction; and The clamping part (318) is integrally formed on the lower end of the horizontal flow block (316) with a curvature and has an uneven surface on the inner circumferential surface.

2. The automatic sampling device according to claim 1, further comprising: An upper mechanical chamber (500) is provided, in which a drive unit for driving the container backup unit (20) and the lid separation unit (30) is installed above the container backup chamber (200) and the lower mechanical chamber (400); as well as The processing room (600) has pipes, equipment and control equipment.

3. The automatic sampling device according to claim 2, wherein, The container spare chamber (200), the lower mechanical chamber (400), the upper mechanical chamber (500), and the processing chamber (600) are completely divided and separated by a partition wall (W).

4. The automatic sampling device according to claim 1, wherein, The container backup unit (20) includes: Rotor (240), said rotor (240) is used to rotate the containers (BT) prepared in the container spare chamber (200) sequentially by a predetermined angle; A container seat plate (220), said container seat plate (220) being a plate-shaped member on which a container (BT) for holding a sample solution is mounted; and A rotary motor (260) is used to rotate the rotor (240).

5. The automatic sampling device according to claim 4, wherein, A rotating guide plate (230) having a circular hole (232) with an open side is mounted above the container seat plate (220) and spaced apart from the container seat plate (220). The rotating guide plate (230) has a circular hole (232) with an open side near the door (DR), and a rotor rotating shaft (250) is mounted to pass through the circular hole (232) and the container seat plate (220).

6. The automatic sampling device according to claim 5, wherein, The lower part of the rotor shaft (250) is supported by a bearing (222) disposed in the container seat plate (220), and the upper part is rotatably connected to the rotary motor (260). The rotor (240) is fixed to the rotor rotation shaft (250).

7. The automatic sampling device according to claim 5, wherein, The bottom surface (210) of the container seat plate is provided with a downwardly recessed solution receiving portion (DP).

8. The automatic sampling device according to claim 7, wherein, The bottom plate is formed in the sampling chamber (300) at the same height as the container seat plate (220), and The base plate includes: a lid cleaning section (CCP) that contacts the lid (CAP) and is capable of cleaning the lid by spraying solution through a solution nozzle; and a container cleaning section (BCP) that reverses the container (BT) and is capable of cleaning the container (BT) by spraying solution upward through a solution nozzle.

9. The automatic sampling device according to claim 4, wherein, A sensor for detecting whether the container (BT) is installed in the container mounting space between the rotors (240) is installed on the top surface of the container spare chamber (200).

10. The automatic sampling device according to claim 1, wherein, The container transfer unit (40) includes: Adsorption cylinder (410); An adsorption stage (450) is configured to perform vacuum adsorption on a container (BT) selected from the container standby unit (20) and move the container (BT) to the sampling chamber (300) according to the operation of the adsorption cylinder (410); and A reversing motor (M) is used to rotate and drive the adsorption stage (450) to invert the container (BT) and clean the container (BT) or to upright the container (BT) to hold the sample solution.

11. The automatic sampling device according to claim 10, wherein, Side guides (420) are provided on both sides of the adsorption cylinder (410), and sliders (430) that slide according to the operation of the adsorption cylinder (410) are respectively assembled to the side guides (420), and The reversing motor (M) is fixed to the slider (430).

12. The automatic sampling device according to claim 10, wherein, The reversing motor (M) is equipped with an operating lever (440). The adsorption stage (450) is fixed to the end of the operating rod (440), and The adsorption stage (450) is equipped with one or more adsorption plates (460) for vacuum adsorption of the container (BT).

13. The automatic sampling device according to claim 12, wherein, The adsorption stage (450) is assembled and fixed to the operating rod (440) which is exposed at one end of the sampling chamber (300) after passing through the partition wall (W) between the sampling chamber (300) and the lower mechanical chamber (400).

14. The automatic sampling device according to claim 10, wherein, The adsorption cylinder (410) is a multi-stage cylinder capable of stopping at three or more points.

15. The automatic sampling device according to claim 12, wherein, The front surface of the adsorption stage (450) is circular, and The adsorption plate (460) is formed by dispersing and arranging multiple plates for vacuum adsorption by drawing air, or by arranging them in a strip along the periphery.

16. The automatic sampling device according to claim 12, wherein, The operating lever (440) is formed as a hollow structure and has a vacuum sensing tube that allows the adsorption plate (460) to perform vacuum adsorption through the hollow structure, as well as wires for the sensor.

17. The automatic sampling device according to claim 12, wherein, A sealing container (470) is mounted on the wall surface of the lower mechanical chamber (400) through which the operating lever (440) passes, thereby sealing around the operating lever (440) when the operating lever (440) is operated.

18. The automatic sampling device according to claim 10, wherein, A liquid level sensor (480) for detecting the liquid level of the sample solution contained in the container (BT) is mounted on the upper side of the adsorption stage (450).

19. The automatic sampling device according to claim 1, wherein, The vertical width of the driven gear (322) is greater than the vertical width of the driving gear (352).

20. The automatic sampling device according to claim 1, wherein, The spring (324) is inserted between the driven gear (322) and the lower end of the fixed base (330).

21. The automatic sampling device according to claim 1, wherein, The lid separation unit (30) further includes: An LM guide (370) is mounted on one side of the upper machinery compartment (500); and A slider (360) is inserted into the LM guide (370) to be able to slide in the vertical direction, and The fixed base (330) fixed to the slider (360) moves vertically according to the operation of the base lifting cylinder (380) installed between the LM guides (370).

22. The automatic sampling device according to claim 1, wherein, The base lifting cylinder (380) is a multi-stage rodless cylinder with an embedded rod, and only a portion of the base lifting cylinder protrudes from the cylinder body.

23. The automatic sampling device according to claim 1, wherein, The gate (DR) includes: A pair of door guides (270) are mounted on both sides; Door lifting cylinders (280) are mounted on both sides of the door guide (270); and A lifting cylinder rod (282) is connected to the door lifting cylinder (280), and the upper end of the door (DR) is connected to the lifting cylinder rod (282). The door (DR) rises and falls to open and close according to the raising and lowering of the lifting cylinder rod (282).

24. The automatic sampling device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein, The devices for transferring from the upper mechanical chamber (500) and the lower mechanical chamber (400) to the container spare chamber (200) or the sampling chamber (300) are all formed as rods with a circular cross-section.

25. A method for automatically sampling a solution using an automatic sampling device, the automatic sampling device comprising: The method comprises the following steps: a container spare chamber (200); a sampling chamber (300) for cleaning the container (BT) and cap (CAP) and holding a sample solution; a lower mechanical chamber (400) located on the opposite side of the container spare chamber (200) and in which a container transfer unit (40) is installed; and an upper mechanical chamber (500) having a drive mechanism for driving the container spare unit (20) and the cap separation unit (30) on the upper part of the sampling chamber (300). Sampling is prepared by arranging a container (BT) with a lid (CAP) in the rotor (240) of the container spare unit (20) provided in the container spare chamber (200) with multiple container receiving slots; After the container (BT) is vacuum adsorbed by the adsorption stage (450) of the container transfer unit (40), the container (BT) is moved to the open position of the lid (CAP) on the sampling chamber (300); Lower the lid holder (310) of the lid separation unit (30) to hold the lid (CAP), separate the lid (CAP) from the container (BT), and lift the separated lid (CAP); The adsorption stage (450) is moved backward to move the container (BT) with the cap (CAP) separated to the sampling position, and the cap (CAP) is lowered. The reverse motor (M) of the container transfer unit (40) is rotated to reverse the container (BT) by 180°, and the lid (CAP) and the interior of the container (BT) are cleaned with a solution or ultrapure water; and The inverted container (BT) is then upright, and the sample solution is injected into the container (BT).

26. The method of claim 25, further comprising the step of: Before performing the step of moving the container (BT) to the open position, open the door (DR) installed between the container spare chamber (200) and the sampling chamber (300); as well as The door (DR) is closed after the step of moving the container (BT) to the open position of the lid is performed.

27. The method of claim 26, further comprising the step of: When the step of injecting the sample solution into the container (BT) is completed, the cap holder (310) is lifted while the cap (CAP) is held, the adsorption stage (450) is advanced to move the container (BT) under the cap (CAP) and lock the cap (CAP) onto the container (BT); The lid holder (310) is lifted by releasing the clamping state, and the door (DR) is opened; Advance the adsorption stage (450) to release the container (BT) containing the sample solution into the container spare chamber (200), and return the adsorption stage (450) to its original position by releasing the vacuum adsorption state; as well as The rotor (240) is rotated to extract the sampled container (BT) and wait for the next container (BT).

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