Remote automated chemical exchange system for use with automated sampling devices

Abstract

A sample analysis system is available that may include a remote sampling system, at least one analyzer, and a controller. The remote sampling system may include a plurality of sample sources for providing corresponding samples therefrom; and a plurality of sample collection devices selectively coupled to any one of the plurality of sample sources for receiving at least one of the samples therefrom. The at least one analyzer may be coupled to the plurality of sample collection devices to receive at least one of the samples therefrom. A controller may be coupled to the remote sampling system and the at least one analyzer, the controller being configured to control which sample source is actively coupled to a given sample collection device at a given time.

Description

Background Art

[0001] In many laboratory settings, it's common to analyze a large number of chemical or biological samples at once. To streamline this process, sample manipulation has become mechanized. This mechanized sampling is known as automated sampling and can be performed using an automated sampling device or autosampler.

[0002] Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometry is an analytical technique commonly used to determine the concentration and isotope ratios of trace elements in liquid samples. ICP spectrometry employs electromagnetically generated, partially ionized argon plasma, which reaches temperatures of approximately 7,000 K. When a sample is introduced into the plasma, the high temperature causes the sample atoms to become ionized or emit light. Because each chemical element produces a characteristic mass or emission spectrum, measuring the spectrum of the emitted matter or light allows the elemental composition of the original sample to be determined.

[0003] A sample introduction system can be used to introduce a liquid sample into an ICP spectrometer (e.g., an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP / ICP-MS), an inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES), or a similar instrument), or other sample detector or analytical instrument for analysis. For example, the sample introduction system can extract an aliquot of a liquid sample from a container and then deliver the aliquot to a nebulizer, which converts the aliquot into a polydisperse aerosol suitable for ionization in a plasma by an ICP spectrometer. The aerosol is then classified in a spray chamber to remove larger aerosol particles. After leaving the spray chamber, the aerosol is introduced into the plasma by the plasma torch assembly of the ICP-MS or ICP-AES instrument for analysis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Any dimensions included in the drawings are provided as examples only and are not meant to limit the present disclosure.

[0005] Figure 1 is a partial line drawing illustrating a system configured to analyze samples transported over long distances and allow for automated crossover of samples according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a remote sampling system that allows for automated exchange of up to N samples with respect to N sample collection systems, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0007] Figure 3A is an environmental diagram illustrating a remote sampling device used in a remote sampling system that facilitates a pair of sample exchanges according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 3Bis another environmental view illustrating a remote sampling device used in a remote sampling system that facilitates a pair of sample exchanges according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 4 is an environmental diagram illustrating a remote sampling device used in a remote sampling system that facilitates exchange of two pairs of different samples according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a system incorporating a remote sampling device, an analysis system, and a controller according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 6A is an environmental diagram illustrating a remote sampling device used in a remote sampling system for facilitating exchange of a pair of samples from three different samples according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 6B is another environmental view illustrating a remote sampling device used in a remote sampling system for facilitating exchange of a pair of samples from three different samples according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 6C is another environmental view illustrating a remote sampling device used in a remote sampling system for facilitating exchange of a pair of samples from three different samples according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Overview

[0015] Traditionally, remote sampling systems employed as part of ICP spectrometers are structured so that a first sample collection system is connected only to a first source fluid, a second sample collection system is connected only to a second source fluid, and so on. Such conventional systems have disadvantages. For example, such a one-to-one delivery system does not facilitate confirmation of source contamination (e.g., determining whether the contamination originates from the source or from the collection system). Furthermore, if a given collection system is inoperable, such as for maintenance or other reasons, testing of material from the associated source may also be halted until the line can be restored to an operational state.

[0016] The present remote sampling system facilitates the selective connection of any one of a plurality of sample sources (e.g., via electronically controlled or manually controlled valves) to one or more sample collection systems. In this way, the present remote sampling system allows chemical sources to be switched between remote sampling collection devices or modules. That is, the present remote sampling system can be controlled in the following manner to determine which chemical source is actively coupled (e.g., via valve control) to a given sample collection device at a particular time, thereby allowing the selected chemical to flow to the given sample collection device. In an embodiment, a certain ratio of fluids from a plurality of chemical sources can be allowed to flow to a given sample collection module to allow a mixture of such source materials to be tested. In an embodiment, each sample collection system can be further selectively connected to one or more analyzers or monitoring units, wherein the flow to the one or more analyzers or monitoring units is selectively controlled.

[0017] Thus, the present remote sampling system allows chemical sources to be switched between remote sampling modules. Such an arrangement allows source contamination verification to be performed (e.g., to see whether contamination is coming from a given source or a specific remote sampling module). This arrangement also facilitates redundancy of the system, allowing source material to be directed to different sampling collection systems or modules, for example, if the sampling collection system or module to which the source material was previously directed is shut down for maintenance or other reasons. In one embodiment, multiple sample collection systems are connected to multiple analyzers or a central analysis system, thereby, for example, allowing a single connection point between a given sample source and a remote sampling system to be connected to multiple analyzers (e.g., depending on which remote sampling module a given source material is directed to).

[0018] Exemplary embodiments

[0019] Overall reference Figures 1 to 6C , describes an example system that automatically transmits an online sample over a long distance to an analysis system configured to analyze the sample. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more samples may be analyzed by multiple analysis systems, where such analysis systems may include different analysis techniques. System 100 (e.g., an automatic sampler in combination with a spectroscopic device) includes at least one analysis system 102 located at a first location. System 100 may also include two or more remote sampling systems 104 located at one or more locations (e.g., a second location) remote from the first location. For example, two or more remote sampling systems 104 may be positioned proximate to multiple chemical sources, such as chemical storage tanks, chemical processing tanks (e.g., chemical baths), chemical transport lines or pipelines, etc. (e.g., remote from the first location of the analysis system 102), such as Figure 1 Remote sample source 106A and remote sample source 106B are shown as well as Figure 2Remote sample sources AN 106A-106N (e.g., source AN) are shown. Chemicals from such sources 106A-106N can be analyzed by an analysis system 102, where the analysis system 102 can be located remotely from the remote sampling system 104, such as an analysis hub for a production facility (e.g., a first location). In embodiments, the remote sampling system 104 can include two or more sample collection devices 108A-108N for use in conjunction with the two or more remote sample sources 106A-106N. In one embodiment, the same number of sample collection devices 108 as the number of remote sample sources 106 can be used. In one embodiment, the number of sample collection devices 108 is different from the number of remote sample sources 106.

[0020] The system 100 may also include one or more remote sampling systems 104 located at a third location, a fourth location, etc., wherein the third location and / or the fourth location are remote from the first location. In embodiments, the third location, the fourth location, and the other locations of the remote sampling systems 104 may be remote from the respective other locations of the other remote sampling systems 104. For example, one remote sampling system 104 may be located at a water line (e.g., a deionized water transport line), while one or more other remote sampling systems 104 may be located at a location with two or more chemical storage tanks, chemical processing tanks (e.g., a chemical bath), chemical transport lines or pipelines, etc. In some embodiments, the system 100 may also include one or more remote sampling systems 104 at a first location (e.g., near the analysis system 102). For example, the sampling system 104 at the first location may include an automatic sampler coupled to the analysis system 102. The one or more sampling systems 104 may be operable to receive samples from the first location, the second location, the third location, the fourth location, etc., and the system 100 may be operable to transport the samples to the analysis system 102 for analysis. The system 100 may include components such as pumps, valves, tubing, sensors, etc., suitable for acquiring a sample from a given sample source 106A-106N, transferring the sample to a selected sample collection module 108A-108N, and transporting the sample over a distance to the analysis system 102.

[0021] The remote sampling system 104 according to the present embodiment can be configured to selectively provide a sample from one of a plurality of remote sample sources 106A-106N to one of a plurality of sample collection modules 108A-108N and prepare one or more samples for delivery (e.g., delivery to the analysis system 102) and / or analysis. Thus, the present remote sampling system 104 allows for switching of chemical sources 106A-106N between corresponding groups of remote sampling modules 108A-108N. For example, in Figure 1, respective source-to-module fluid connections 109 provide fluid flow paths between remote sample sources 106A-106B and sample collection modules 108A-108B and are shown in a dashed configuration to schematically represent selective flow between these units (i.e., all flow paths are available but not necessarily used, which can be accomplished by using valves discussed later). In embodiments, remote sampling system 104 can be positioned at various distances from analysis system 102 (e.g., 1 meter, 5 meters, 10 meters, 30 meters, 50 meters, 100 meters, 300 meters, 1000 meters, etc.).

[0022] The remote sampling device 104 may include a device (e.g., as part of a given sample collection module 108) configured to collect samples from sample streams or sources 106A-106N (e.g., liquids, such as wastewater, rinse water, chemicals, industrial chemicals, etc.; gases, such as air samples that come into contact with liquids and / or contaminants therein, or the like). The remote sampling system 104 may include components, such as pumps, valves, tubing, sensors, etc., suitable for obtaining samples from sample sources and transporting the samples a certain distance to the analysis system 102. A given sample collection module 108 may further be configured to prepare the collected samples using diluents, internal standards, carriers, etc., such as to provide specific sample concentrations, spiked samples, calibration curves, etc., and may be configured to rinse with a rinse fluid (e.g., deionized water).

[0023] The analysis system 102 is fluidically coupled to the remote sampling system 104 and may include, for example, a sample collector 110, an analysis device 112, and / or a sampling device 114. The sample collector 110 may be configured to collect samples from one or more sample collection modules 108A-108N of a given remote sampling system 104 for transport to the analysis device 112 and / or the sampling device 114. The analysis system 102 may include a sampling device 114 configured to collect samples local to the analysis system 102 (e.g., a local autosampler) and, for example, transport the local samples to the analysis device 112.

[0024] The analysis system 102 may include at least one analysis device 112 configured to analyze a sample to determine, for example, trace element concentrations, isotope ratios, etc. (e.g., in a liquid sample). For example, the analysis device 112 may include an ICP spectrometer, including but not limited to an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP / ICP-MS), an inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES), an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICPOES), or the like. In an embodiment, the analysis system 102 includes a plurality of analysis devices 112 (i.e., more than one analysis device). For example, the system 100 and / or the analysis system 102 may include multiple sampling loops, each sampling loop introducing a portion of the sample to multiple analysis devices 112. As another example, the system 100 and / or the analysis system 102 may be configured with a multi-position valve so that a single sample can be quickly and sequentially introduced to multiple analysis devices 112. In embodiments, a given analytical device 112 may be, but is not limited to, an ICPMS (e.g., for trace metal determination), an ICPOES (e.g., for trace metal determination), an ion chromatograph (e.g., for anion and cation determination), a liquid chromatograph (LC) (e.g., for determination of organic contaminants), a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) (e.g., for determination of chemical composition and structural information), a particle counter (e.g., for detection of undissolved particles), a moisture analyzer (e.g., for detection of moisture in a sample), a gas chromatograph (GC) (e.g., for detection of volatile components), or the like. In embodiments, a given analytical device or analyzer 112 may be located remotely from a remote sampling system 104. In embodiments, a given analytical device 112 may be local to a given remote sampling system 104. It is understood that the ability to perform chemical exchange or switching may be utilized in a system 100 where the analytical system 102 is local to the sampling system 104 and where such components are remote from one another.

[0025] It is to be understood that at least one analyzer 112 can be coupled to at least one of the plurality of sample collection devices 108A-108N for receiving at least one of the samples therefrom, with each respective sample collection device 108A-108N connected to at least one corresponding analyzer 112. In embodiments, a plurality of sample collection devices 108A-108N, or less than the number N of sample collection devices, can be fluidly connected to a given analyzer 112. In embodiments, each respective sample collection device 108A-108N can have a unique analyzer 112 associated therewith. In embodiments, a first plurality of sample collection systems 108 can be dedicated to a first analyzer 112, a second, different plurality of sample collection systems 108 can be dedicated to a second, different analyzer 112, and so on.

[0026] The system 100 and / or the analysis system 102 can be configured to report the analyte concentration at a certain location over time. In some embodiments, the analysis device 112 can be configured to detect one or more trace metals in a sample. In other embodiments, the analysis device 112 can be configured for ion chromatography. For example, ions and / or cations can be collected in a sample and transported to the chromatography analysis device 112. In a further embodiment, organic molecules, proteins, etc. can be collected in a sample and transported to a high-resolution time-of-flight (HR-ToF) mass spectrometry analysis device 112 (for example, using a nebulizer (not shown)). Therefore, the system described herein can be used for various applications, including but not necessarily limited to: pharmaceutical applications (for example, using a central mass spectrometry analysis device connected to multiple pharmaceutical reactors), waste liquid monitoring of one or more waste liquid streams, semiconductor manufacturing facilities, etc. For example, the waste liquid stream can be continuously monitored for pollutants and diverted to a storage tank when a pollutant is detected. As another example, one or more chemical streams can be continuously monitored by analyzing samples obtained by one or more remote sampling systems 104 connected to the analysis system 102, based on which pollution limits can be set for each chemical stream. The system 100 may provide an alert upon detecting contaminants that exceed a contamination limit for a particular stream.

[0027] The remote sampling system 104 can be configured to selectively couple with a gas supply (not shown) and can be configured to transport gas from the second location (and possibly the third location, the fourth location, etc.) to the first location. In this manner, a liquid sample segment supplied by the remote sampling system 104 can be collected in a gas stream and transported to the location of the analysis system 102 using gas pressure sample transport. In some embodiments, the gas collection stream can contain an inert gas, including but not necessarily limited to nitrogen, argon, etc.

[0028] Figures 3A to 3B and Figure 4 The exemplary embodiment described in further details how the different sample sources 106A-106N are particularly related in providing flow streams to a given set of sample collection modules 108A-108N. Figures 3A to 3B , remote sample sources 106A and 106B can be interconnected via a source-to-module fluid connection 109 to allow a given sample to selectively flow to a corresponding sample collection module or sampling unit 108A, 108B. The source-to-module fluid connection 109 can include a fluid line or other conduit, and one or more manual valves 120, one-way valves 122, pneumatic valves 124, and / or pressure regulators 126 to achieve a desired regulated flow therethrough.

[0029] A water source 128 (e.g., supplying deionized water (DIW) or another form of water) can be fluidically coupled to a corresponding source-to-module fluid connection 109 via a respective water line 130. Such a water line 130 can carry, for example, one or more manual valves 120 and / or one-way valves 122 to facilitate control of the passage of water therethrough into the desired source-to-module fluid connection 109. In an embodiment, a corresponding manual valve 120 is used to control the flushing of a given source-to-module fluid connection 109 with water (e.g., with DIW). In some embodiments, other types of valves (e.g., pneumatic valves 124) can be provided within a given water line 130, for example, to facilitate electronic control thereof. The water source 128 can be used to help flush or otherwise rinse a given source-to-module fluid connection 109 and / or to dilute a given sample.

[0030] A given source-to-module fluid connection 109 can further have a waste flow line 132 coupled thereto, through which flow from the source-to-module fluid connection 109 can be directed. For example, the waste flow line 132 can be provided with at least one pneumatic valve 124 and / or another type of valve to allow fluid to selectively pass therethrough (e.g., to a waste location). In embodiments, the pneumatic valve 124 associated with a given waste flow line 132 can be opened during a DIW flush of the corresponding source-to-module fluid connection 109.

[0031] The pneumatic valves 124 can have various features associated with them. In an embodiment, all of the pneumatic valves 124 are normally closed (NC) unless explicitly activated and opened. In an embodiment, the pneumatic valves 124 are independently controlled by a controller and are configured to allow chemical selection in the system 100. In an embodiment, the pneumatic valves 124 will automatically close when the system 100 loses power and / or an emergency event occurs. In an embodiment where there are multiple remote sample collection modules 108, a given set of pneumatic valves 124 can correspond to a respective sample collection module 108 to control which source material (e.g., chemical) will be delivered by that given sample collection module 108. In an embodiment, all of the pneumatic valves 124 are independently controlled. In a system such as Figures 3A to 3B In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 with chemical switching and DIW flush options, there are a maximum of two sampling points in a given remote sampling system.

[0032] Figure 4 The illustrated embodiment provides a first pair of source-to-module fluid connections 109A and 109B specifically for delivering a first sample S1 and / or a second sample S2 and a second pair of source-to-module fluid connections 109C and 109D specifically for delivering a third sample S3 and / or a fourth sample S4 as part of a remote sampling system 104 . Figure 4The embodiment is configured to selectively provide a water flow (eg, DIW) into each source-to-module fluid connection 109A-109D. Furthermore, each source-to-module fluid connection 109A-109D is fluidly coupled to a corresponding waste flow line 132A-132D. Figure 4 3, may include a module adapted to obtain samples S1-S4 from their corresponding sample sources 106A-106D and to provide the samples S1-S4 to a given sample collection module 108A-108D (in Figure 4 components for transporting (not explicitly stated), such as pumps, valves, pipes, sensors, etc.

[0033] The system 100 can be implemented as a closed sampling system, wherein the gas and sample in the source-to-module fluid connections 109 (e.g., sample transfer lines) are not exposed to the surrounding environment. For example, a housing and / or sheath (not shown) can enclose one or more components of the system 100. In some embodiments, one or more sample lines of the remote sampling system 104 can be cleaned between sample delivery. Additionally, one or more of the source-to-module fluid connections 109 can be cleaned (e.g., using a cleaning solution) between samples.

[0034] about Figure 5 , the system 100, including some or all of its components, can operate under computer control via a controller 150. The controller 150 can include a processor 152, a memory 154, and / or a communication interface 156. For example, one or more components of the system, such as the analysis system 102, the remote sampling system 104, valves (e.g., pneumatic valve 124), pumps, and / or detectors can be coupled to the controller 150 to control the sample (e.g., S1-S4, as Figure 4 For example, the controller 150 can be configured to switch one pneumatic valve 124 located within a given source-to-module fluid connection 109 to selectively select which sample flows therethrough, and / or to switch another pneumatic valve 124 located within the same line 109 or a corresponding waste line 132 to determine whether the flow therethrough is directed to a corresponding sample collection module, to a sampling unit 108, or through a corresponding waste line 132. Details of the controller 150 and its components will be discussed in greater detail below in the section entitled "Control System."

[0035] Figures 6A to 6C The remote sampling system 204 shown in FIG is similar in function and components to the remote sampling system 104 except as described herein. The remote sampling system 204 generally illustrates how different sample sources 206A-206C specifically relate to provide selectable flow streams to a given set of sample collection modules 108A-108C. Figures 6A to 6C, remote sample sources 206A-206C can be interconnected via source-to-module fluid connections 209 to allow a given sample to selectively flow to a corresponding sample collection module or sampling unit 108A-108C. The source-to-module fluid connections 209 can include fluid lines or other conduits, as well as one or more manual valves 220, one-way valves 222, pneumatic valves 224, pressure regulators 226, and / or multi-port valves 227 to achieve the desired regulated flow therethrough, along with a plurality of syringes 229 to facilitate the introduction of other components (such as diluents, etc.) into the flow as needed. A water source 228 (e.g., supplying deionized water (DIW) or another form of water) is fluidically coupled to the corresponding source-to-module fluid connection 209 via respective water lines 230. Such water lines 230 can carry, for example, one or more manual valves 220 and / or one-way valves 222 to facilitate controlled flow of water therethrough and into the desired source-to-module fluid connection 209. A given source-to-module fluid connection 209 can further have a waste flow line 232 coupled thereto, through which flow from the source-to-module fluid connection 209 can be directed. For example, the waste flow line 232 can be provided with at least one pneumatic valve 224 and / or another type of valve to allow fluid to selectively flow therethrough (e.g., to a waste location). Unless otherwise described herein, similarly numbered components associated with the remote sampling system 204 as components associated with the remote sampling system 104 (e.g., fluid connections 109 and 209) can be expected to have similar construction and / or function.

[0036] There are some areas where the remote sampling system 204 may differ from the remote sampling system 104. One difference is the use of multiple multi-port valves 227 to facilitate the selective flow of samples and / or other components through the various fluid connections 209. The use of multi-port valves 227 allows the use of various suitable piping options (e.g., valves, manifolds, etc.) in the system 104 to produce a selectable flow (e.g., of the desired sample) to any of the sample collection modules 108A-108C. Such a multi-port valve 227 may have any number (e.g., 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, etc.) of ports associated therewith to achieve the desired input and / or output at a given valve position. In addition, as shown, a combination of multi-port valves 227 may be used at a given location to achieve the desired flow function. It is to be understood that the controller 150 can be used to control the operation of the remote sampling system 204 (e.g., through the selective flow of each multi-port valve 227). Another difference is the use of a syringe 229 to facilitate the selective introduction of other components (e.g., diluents, etc.) into the flow as needed. Finally, Figures 6A to 6CVarious waste flow lines 232 are illustrated as being fluidly interconnected, which can aid in managing the waste line flow (e.g., to recycle, to dispose of, etc.). However, it should be understood that different waste flow lines 232 may be used instead and still be within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that Figures 3A to 3B 、 Figure 4 The elements shown in the embodiment of FIG. 6 may be mixed and matched as appropriate, and such combinations are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0037] control system

[0038] The system 100, including some or all of its components, can operate under computer control via a controller 150. The controller 150 can include a processor 152, a memory 154, and / or a communication interface 156. For example, the processor 152 can be included in or located within the system 100 to control the components and functions of the system described herein using software, firmware, hardware (e.g., fixed logic circuitry), manual processing, or a combination thereof. As used herein, the terms "controller," "function," "service," and "logic" generally represent software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of software, firmware, or hardware associated with a control system. In the case of a software implementation, a module, function, or logic represents program code that, when executed on a processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or multiple CPUs), performs a specified task. The program code can be stored in one or more computer-readable storage devices (e.g., internal memory and / or one or more tangible media), among other things. The structures, functions, methods, and techniques described herein can be implemented on various commercial computing platforms having various processors.

[0039] In some embodiments, the controller 150 is coupled to an indicator at a remote location (e.g., a second location) and provides an indication (e.g., an alarm) at the second location when insufficient samples are received at the first location. The indication can be used to (e.g., automatically) initiate additional sample collection and delivery. In some embodiments, the indicator provides an alarm to the operator (e.g., via one or more indicator lights, via a display readout, a combination thereof, etc.). In addition, the indication can be timed and / or activated according to one or more predetermined conditions (e.g., only when multiple samples are missed). In some embodiments, the indicator can also be activated based on conditions measured at the remote sampling site. For example, a detector at the second location can be used to determine when a sample is provided within the remote sampling system 104, and the indicator can be activated when the sample is not collected.

[0040] The processor 152 associated with the controller 150 provides processing functionality for the controller 150 and may include any number of processors, microcontrollers, or other processing systems, as well as resident or external memory for storing data and other information accessed or generated by the controller 150. The processor 152 may execute one or more software programs that implement the techniques described herein. The processor 152 is not limited by the materials from which it is formed or the processing mechanisms employed therein, and as such, may be implemented via semiconductors and / or transistors (e.g., using electronic integrated circuit (IC) components), etc.

[0041] The memory 154 of the controller 150 is an example of a tangible, computer-readable storage medium that provides storage functionality to store various data associated with the operation of the controller 150, such as software programs and / or code segments, or other data to instruct the processor 152 and possibly other components of the controller 150 to perform the functions described herein. Thus, the memory 154 can store data, such as instruction programs for operating the system 100 (including its components), etc. It should be noted that although a single memory is described, a wide variety of types and combinations of memories (e.g., tangible, non-transitory memories) can be employed. The memory 154 can be integral with the processor 152, can include a separate memory, or can be a combination of both.

[0042] The memory 154 may include, but is not necessarily limited to, removable and non-removable memory components such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory (e.g., secure digital (SD) memory card, mini SD memory card, and / or micro SD memory card), magnetic memory, optical memory, universal serial bus (USB) storage, hard disk storage, external memory, etc. In an embodiment, the system 100 and / or the memory 122 may include removable integrated circuit card (ICC) memory, such as the memory 122 provided by a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, a universal subscriber identity module (USIM) card, a universal integrated circuit card (UICC), etc.

[0043] The communication interface 156 of the controller 150 is operatively configured to communicate with components of the system. For example, the communication interface 156 can be configured to transfer data for storage in the system 100, retrieve data from storage in the system 100, and so on. The communication interface 156 can also be communicatively coupled to the processor 152 to facilitate the transfer of data between components of the system 100 and the processor 152 (e.g., for communicating input received from a device communicatively coupled to the controller 150 to the processor 152). It should be noted that while the communication interface 156 is described as a component of the controller 150, one or more components of the communication interface 156 can be implemented as external components communicatively coupled to the system 100 via a wired and / or wireless connection. The system 100 can also include and / or be connected (e.g., via the communication interface 156) to one or more input / output (I / O) devices, including but not necessarily limited to: a display, a mouse, a touchpad, a keyboard, and the like.

[0044] The communication interface 156 and / or the processor 152 can be configured to communicate with a variety of different networks, including, but not necessarily limited to: a wide-area cellular telephone network, such as a 3G cellular network, a 4G cellular network, or a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network; a wireless computer communication network, such as a Wi-Fi network (e.g., a wireless local area network (WLAN) operating using the IEEE 802.11 network standard); the Internet; a wide area network (WAN); a local area network (LAN); a personal area network (PAN) (e.g., a wireless personal area network (WPAN) operating using the IEEE 802.15 network standard); a public telephone network; an extranet; an intranet, and the like. However, this list is provided by way of example only and is not meant to limit the present disclosure. Furthermore, the communication interface 156 can be configured to communicate with a single network or multiple networks across different access points.

[0045] A method for detecting sample contamination in a remote sampling system is also described. In an embodiment, the remote sampling system 104 extracts a sample from a remote sample source 106A-106N via a sample collection device 108A-108N. In some embodiments, the sample collection device 108A-108N can be selectively fluidically coupled to any one of the sample sources 106A-106N to receive one or more samples therefrom. The sample is directed through a first fluid connection path (e.g., a first source to fluid connection 109) to the analysis system 102. The analysis system 102 detects whether a contaminant is present in the sample. After detecting the presence of a contaminant, the sample is redirected from the corresponding sample source 106A-106N through a second remote sampling system and a second fluid connection path (e.g., a second source to fluid connection 109) to the analysis system 102. The analysis system 102 then detects whether a contaminant is present in the sample received through the second connection path. In some embodiments, the analysis system 102 compares the levels of the contaminant to determine whether the sample is contaminated or the first remote sampling system is contaminated. In some embodiments, the analysis system 102 determines whether contaminants exceed a predetermined level. When contaminants exceed the predetermined level, the sample is redirected through a second connection path. In some embodiments, an alarm is generated when the detected contaminants exceed the predetermined level. In some embodiments, the system 100 operates via a controller 150 to control the collection, transport, and / or analysis of the sample. For example, the controller 150 can be operated to selectively direct the sample through the fluid connection path.

[0046] in conclusion

[0047] In embodiments, various analytical devices may utilize the structures, techniques, methods, etc. described herein. Thus, although a system is described herein, various analytical instruments may utilize the described techniques, methods, structures, etc. These devices may be configured with limited functionality (e.g., thin devices) or robust functionality (e.g., thick devices). Thus, the functionality of a device may be related to the device's software or hardware resources (e.g., processing power, memory (e.g., data storage capacity), analytical capabilities, etc.).

[0048] In general, any functionality described herein can be implemented using hardware (e.g., fixed logic circuitry, such as integrated circuits), software, firmware, manual processing, or a combination thereof. Thus, the blocks discussed in the above disclosure generally represent hardware (e.g., fixed logic circuitry, such as integrated circuits), software, firmware, or a combination thereof. In the case of a hardware configuration, the various blocks discussed in the above disclosure may be implemented, along with other functionality, as integrated circuits. Such integrated circuits may include all functionality of a given segment, system, or circuit, or a portion of the functionality of that segment, system, or circuit. Furthermore, the various elements of a segment, system, or circuit may be implemented across multiple integrated circuits. Such integrated circuits may include various integrated circuits, including, but not necessarily limited to, monolithic integrated circuits, flip-chip integrated circuits, multi-chip module integrated circuits, and / or mixed-signal integrated circuits. In the case of a software implementation, the various blocks discussed in the above disclosure represent executable instructions (e.g., program code) that, when executed on a processor, perform a specified task. These executable instructions may be stored in one or more tangible computer-readable media. In some such cases, the entire system, segment, or circuit may be implemented using its software or firmware equivalent. In other cases, portions of a given system, block, or circuit may be implemented in software or firmware, while other portions are implemented in hardware.

[0049] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or process operations, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A method for detecting sample contamination in a remote sampling system, comprising: extracting a sample from a sample source of a plurality of sample sources via a plurality of sample collection devices selectively fluidly coupled to any of the plurality of sample sources to receive the sample therefrom; directing the sample to at least one analyzer through one of a plurality of connecting pathways; detecting the presence of contaminants in the sample via the at least one analyzer; redirecting the sample from a corresponding one of the plurality of sample sources to the at least one analyzer through a second connection pathway in the plurality of connection pathways based on detecting the presence of a contaminant in the sample; as well as A sample received through a second connection pathway of the plurality of connection pathways is detected via the at least one analyzer for the presence of contaminants. 2 . The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining, via the analyzer, whether the detected contaminant exceeds a predetermined level.

3. The method of claim 2, further comprising generating an alarm upon determining that the detected contaminant exceeds the predetermined level. The method of claim 2 , wherein the sample is not redirected upon determining that the detected contaminant does not exceed the predetermined level.

5. A system comprising: A remote sampling system, comprising: a plurality of sample sources for providing corresponding samples therefrom; a plurality of sample collection devices selectively fluidly coupled to any of a plurality of sample sources for receiving at least one of the samples therefrom; and a plurality of fluid connection paths selectively coupled to the plurality of collection devices; at least one analyzer coupled to at least one of the plurality of sample collection devices for receiving at least one of the samples therefrom, each respective sample collection device being connected to at least one corresponding analyzer via the plurality of fluid connection pathways; and a controller coupled to the remote sampling system and the at least one analyzer, the controller being configured to control which sample source is actively fluidically coupled to a given sample collection device at a given time, wherein the controller is operable to control operation of the remote sampling system to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the plurality of fluid connection paths are provided via a plurality of source-to-module fluid connections.

7. A system according to claim 6, wherein each of the source-to-module fluid connections includes a plurality of valves and a plurality of pressure regulators operably coupled to the controller to obtain at least one of a specific regulated flow of the sample flow or a flow of water in response to the instructions of the controller.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein each valve of the plurality of valves of the source-to-module fluid connection is positioned by the controller in an open or closed position to regulate the flow of the sample fluid.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of valves comprises at least one of a manual valve, a one-way valve, or a pneumatic valve.

10. The system of claim 6, wherein each of the source-to-module fluid connections contains a waste flow line.

11. The system of claim 6, wherein the system is configured to provide a flow of water into the plurality of source-to-module fluid connections.

12. The system of claim 5, wherein upon detection of a contaminant in a sample stream received from a remote sampling system by the at least one analyzer, the controller is configured to divert the sample stream to a storage tank.

13. The system of claim 5, wherein upon detection by the at least one analyzer of a contaminant in a sample stream received from a remote sampling system, the at least one analyzer provides an alarm when the contaminant exceeds a contamination limit for the sample stream.

14. The system of claim 5, wherein the system further comprises at least one pump to drive the sample flow from the sample collection device to the analyzer or through a waste line.

15. The system of claim 5, wherein the controller comprises at least one of a processor, a memory, and a communication interface.

16. The system of claim 5, wherein the controller is communicatively coupled to an indicator to provide an indication when insufficient sample is received.

17. The system of claim 5, wherein a first sample collection device of the plurality of sample collection devices is positioned at a separate location compared to a second sample collection device of the plurality of sample collection devices.

18. The system of claim 5, wherein the sample comprises at least one of a gas or a liquid.

19. The system of claim 5, wherein the controller is communicatively coupled to at least one indicator at a second location to provide an indication when the at least one analyzer receives insufficient sample.

20. The system of claim 5, wherein the controller includes at least one of the communication interfaces configured to interact with a plurality of different network types.

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