Multi-device removal and installation tool

Abstract

In some examples, a multi-device removal and installation tool can include a device removal tool comprising a catch member engageable with an engagement face of a device to attach the device removal tool to the device when the catch member is engaged with the engagement face. The catch member can engage the engagement face with a removal force sufficient to remove the device from an instrument when the catch member is engaged with the engagement face. The multi-device removal and installation tool can further include a torque limiting tool comprising a retainer having at least one protrusion and a drive member having an inner surface and an outer surface. The torque limiting tool can further include at least one stop positioned on the inner surface.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] In various product design, development, manufacturing, and usage environments, a device may require different operations. For example, a device may need to be gripped, moved to a maintenance point or another location for inspection, cleaning, securing, and / or utilization, and may further need to be moved back to its original or another location. As another example, an instrument may include various devices that may need to be gripped and removed, inspected for maintenance activities that may include cleaning and / or securing, reinstalled on the instrument, and / or moved to another location as needed.

[0002] Typically, a user might grab a device, inspect it for maintenance activities that may include cleaning and / or securing it, reinstall the device on an instrument, and / or move the device to another location. In some cases, the device may include vulnerable areas that may be susceptible to damage. In this regard, protecting the vulnerable areas of the device can be technically challenging during activities that may include grabbing, removing, cleaning, securing, reinstalling, and / or utilizing it, as well as other types of activities. Attached Figure Description

[0003] The features of this disclosure are illustrated by way of example in the following figures, but are not limited thereto, wherein like numbers represent like elements, wherein:

[0004] Figure 1 An isometric view of a torque limiting tool for a device removal tool and a multi-device removal and installation tool, as shown in an example of this disclosure, is illustrated.

[0005] Figure 2 A perspective view of an instrument, including one that can be made of an example according to this disclosure, is shown. Figure 1 The first and second devices removed by the multi-device removal and installation tools, and an enlarged exploded view of the first device, the second device and related components;

[0006] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 An isometric view of the device removal tool, according to an example of this disclosure, shows a first side having a first receiver having a first size and removably receiving the first device;

[0007] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 An isometric view of the device removal tool, according to an example of this disclosure, shows a second side having a second receiver having a second size and removably receiving a second device;

[0008] Figure 5 It is based on an example of this disclosed text, roughly following Figure 1The line cut from 5-5 Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a device removal tool, including a first device removably received in a first receiver;

[0009] Figure 6 It is based on an example of this disclosed text, roughly following Figure 1 The line 6-6 was cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a device removal tool, including a second device removably received in a second receiver;

[0010] Figure 7 An example is shown according to this disclosure text. Figure 1 The exploded isometric view of the torque limiting tool;

[0011] Figure 8 This is an example based on the text of this disclosure. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the device removal tool and torque limiting tool in an installation configuration, wherein a portion of the first receiver is removed to show the operation of the multiple torque beams of the device removal tool and the multiple protrusions of the torque limiting tool;

[0012] Figure 9 This is an example based on the text of this disclosure. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the device removal tool and torque limiting tool in an installation configuration, showing the operation of the torque beam of the device removal tool and the protrusion of the torque limiting tool;

[0013] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of a torque limiting tool, as shown in this disclosure, is generally along... Figure 1 Line 10-10 is cut off and includes an enlarged view of the ball and stop used to control the orientation of the drive component;

[0014] Figure 11 An example is shown according to this disclosure text. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the device removal tool and torque limiting tool in an installation configuration shows the operation of the torque limiting tool pin for rotating the first device, and the clamp for attaching the torque limiting tool to the device removal tool; and

[0015] Figure 12A and Figure 12B An example is shown according to this disclosure text. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the device removal tool and torque limiting tool in the installation configuration shows the operation of the device removal tool separating the beam. Detailed Implementation

[0016] For simplicity and illustrative purposes, the content of this disclosure is described primarily through reference to examples. Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a comprehensive understanding of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent that implementation of this disclosure may not be limited to these specific details. In other instances, some methods and structures have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring this disclosure.

[0017] Throughout this disclosure, the terms “a” and “an” are intended to mean at least one of a particular element. As used herein, the term “comprising” means including but not limited to, and the term “including” means including but not limited to. The term “based on” means at least partially based on.

[0018] As disclosed herein, devices may need to be picked up, moved to a maintenance point or another location for inspection, cleaning, securing, and / or use, and / or moved back to their original location or another location as needed. For example, an instrument may include various devices that may need to be picked up and removed for inspection for maintenance activities that may include cleaning and / or securing, reinstalled on the instrument, or moved to another location as needed. In one example, for an instrument including an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS), devices (such as the cutoff cone and / or sampling cone) may need to be picked up and removed from the instrument for inspection for maintenance activities that may include cleaning and / or securing, and reinstalled on the instrument. ICP-MS instruments utilize inductively coupled plasma to ionize samples, with the cutoff cone and sampling cone located between the plasma side and the detector side of the instrument, respectively. The cutoff cone and sampling cone may also be referred to as interface cones. Users of ICP-MS instruments may pick up the cutoff cone and / or sampling cone, inspect the cones for maintenance activities that may include cleaning and / or securing, and reinstall the cones on the ICP-MS instrument. The cut-off cone and / or sampling cone may include vulnerable areas such as cone threads and cone tips, which may be susceptible to damage. In this regard, gripping the cut-off cone and / or sampling cone and protecting the vulnerable areas of the cone during removal, maintenance activities (which may include cleaning and / or securing), and reinstallation activities can be technically challenging.

[0019] To at least address the aforementioned technical challenges, this document discloses a multi-device removal and installation tool, which may include a device removal tool for removing, holding, and reinstalling an instrument, the device including a cutting cone and / or a sampling cone, and the instrument including an ICP-MS instrument. The multi-device removal and installation tool may further include a torque limiting tool to limit the torque that may be applied to the device when it is mounted on the instrument. This device removal tool can be used independently to remove, hold, and reinstall devices that may include a sampling cone. For devices that may include a cutting cone, the device removal tool can be used in conjunction with the torque limiting tool to remove, hold, and reinstall the cutting cone on the instrument. Regarding device holding, the device removal tool can be configured as disclosed herein to hold the device during transport (e.g., from the instrument to a maintenance location). At the maintenance location, various operations can be performed on the device, such as inspection, cleaning, etc. The device, which can be held in the device removal tool during these operations, can therefore be mechanically protected because vulnerable areas of the device remain out of contact with the device removal tool and / or the torque limiting tool. After these operations are completed, the device can remain in the device removal tool until it is reinstalled on the instrument, or it can be stored as needed while the device is still in the device removal tool.

[0020] According to the examples disclosed herein, a multi-device removal and installation tool may include a device removal tool comprising a plurality of snap-fit ​​members that engage with a mating surface of a device, such that the device removal tool is attached to the device when the plurality of snap-fit ​​members are engaged with the mating surface. The plurality of snap-fit ​​members may engage with the mating surface with a removal force sufficient to remove the device from the instrument when the plurality of snap-fit ​​members are engaged with the mating surface. For example, as disclosed herein, the removal force may be greater than or equal to 20 G, perpendicular to the central axis of the device removal tool, for a device that may include a cut cone and / or sampling cone of an ICP-MS instrument.

[0021] Regarding the snap-fit ​​components, according to the examples disclosed herein, the plurality of snap-fit ​​components may include three or more snap-fit ​​components. For example, in a particular configuration of the device removal tool disclosed herein, the plurality of snap-fit ​​components may include four snap-fit ​​components capable of engaging with the mating surface of an instrument comprising a sampling cone, the instrument comprising an ICP-MS instrument. According to another example disclosed herein, the plurality of snap-fit ​​components may include six snap-fit ​​components capable of engaging with the mating surface of an instrument comprising a sampling cone, the instrument comprising an ICP-MS instrument. However, given this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that the number of snap-fit ​​components may be increased or decreased as needed to attach the device removal tool to the device without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that, given this disclosure, the device may include any type of device that can be gripped and moved by the multi-device removal and installation tool disclosed herein.

[0022] Regarding the engagement surface, according to the examples disclosed herein, for a device including a sampling cone, the engagement surface may include a groove that engages with the plurality of snap-fit ​​members. For example, the engagement surface may include a V-shaped, U-shaped, or other type of groove. However, given this disclosure, those skilled in the art will recognize that the shape of the groove can be formed in any configuration to engage the snap-fit ​​members without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0023] According to the examples disclosed herein, a torque limiting tool may include at least one protrusion and may removably engage with a device removal tool. The torque limiting tool may apply a tightening torque to the device in a first rotational direction of the torque limiting tool and the device removal tool via the at least one protrusion. Furthermore, the torque limiting tool may apply a loosening torque to the device in a second rotational direction of the torque limiting tool and the device removal tool via the at least one protrusion. The second rotational direction may be substantially opposite to the first rotational direction.

[0024] According to the examples disclosed herein, the at least one protrusion may be engageable with at least one torque beam of the device removal tool to deflect the at least one torque beam when the applied tightening torque exceeds a torque threshold, thereby limiting the tightening torque applied to the device. In this way, as disclosed herein, the torque beam can prevent over-tightening of the device when it is rotatably attached back to the instrument.

[0025] According to the examples disclosed herein, a torque limiting tool may include a retainer having at least one protrusion. The retainer may be removably engaged with a device removal tool on the engagement surface of an engagement device. The torque limiting tool may include a drive member having an inner surface and an outer surface. Furthermore, the torque limiting tool may include at least one stop positioned on the inner surface. The torque limiting tool may include at least one engagement portion for engaging a lever tool. For example, the engagement portion may include a groove into which a lever tool may be inserted to rotate the torque limiting tool.

[0026] According to the examples disclosed herein, the device removal tool may include at least one separation beam for pushing the device removal tool toward the device when the loosening torque is applied to the device, so as to allow the plurality of snap-fit ​​members to engage with the engagement surface of the device.

[0027] The device removal tool may further include at least one device ejector, the at least one device ejector including a tab that is movable to eject the device from the device removal tool. In one example, the tab may be pressed down to eject the device from the device removal tool.

[0028] According to the examples disclosed herein, the plurality of snap-fit ​​members may be generally oriented toward a first direction of the device removal tool. In this regard, the device removal tool may include a further plurality of snap-fit ​​members, which may be generally oriented toward a second direction generally opposite to the first direction. The further plurality of snap-fit ​​members may be capable of engaging with a further engagement surface of a further device, so as to attach the device removal tool to the further device when the further plurality of snap-fit ​​members are engaged with the further engagement surface. In this regard, the aforementioned device may include a snipping cone or a sampling cone, and the further device may include the other of a snipping cone or a sampling cone. The further plurality of snap-fit ​​members may engage with the further engagement surface, and their further removal force is sufficient to remove the further device from the instrument when the further plurality of snap-fit ​​members are engaged with the further engagement surface. For example, as disclosed herein, the further removal force may be greater than or equal to 20G, perpendicular to the central axis of the device removal tool, for a device that may include a snipping cone and / or a sampling cone of an ICP-MS instrument.

[0029] According to the examples disclosed herein, a multi-device removal and installation tool may include a device removal tool having a first side having a first receiver of a first size and removably receiving a first device. The device removal tool may include a second side having a second receiver of a second size and removably receiving a second device. The first size may differ from the second size. The device removal tool may include at least one torque beam that deflects when an applied tightening torque exceeds a torque threshold to limit the tightening torque applied to the device. For this example of a multi-device removal and installation tool, the first device may include a cutting cone of an instrument, and the second device may include a sampling cone of an instrument, including an ICP-MS instrument. Alternatively, the first device may include a sampling cone, and the second device may include a cutting cone. For the example of a first device that may include a cutting cone, the multi-device removal and installation tool may further include at least one separation beam to allow multiple snap-fit ​​members to engage with the mating surface of the first device when a rotational torque is applied to the first device. For the example of a second device that may include a sampling cone, the multi-device removal and installation tool may further include at least one device ejector including a movable tab to eject the second device from the second receiver. According to the examples disclosed herein, the dimensions of the first receiver and the second receiver can respectively hold the first device and the second device at a specified height. For example, the specified height can allow the first device and the second device to be immersed in a container containing a specified amount of liquid or another cleaning material for maintenance and / or cleaning purposes, without the need to use different containers for the first device and the second device.

[0030] According to the examples disclosed herein, the device removal tool may be formed of at least polyetherimide (PEI). However, in view of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that the device removal tool may be formed of other suitable materials that can be used to attach the device removal tool to the device and to retain the device in the device removal tool during cleaning and other maintenance operations, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0031] Based on the examples disclosed herein, the multi-device removal and installation tools disclosed herein can provide protection for vulnerable features of devices such as cutting cones and / or sampling cones. For example, the multi-device removal and installation tools disclosed herein can provide protection for features such as cone tips, cone orifices, and threads.

[0032] Based on the examples disclosed herein, the multi-device removal and installation tool disclosed herein can be configured to grip and hold devices of various sizes and / or configurations. For example, the snap-fit ​​member disclosed herein can be configured to engage with various surfaces of the device to attach the device removal tool to the device.

[0033] Based on the examples disclosed herein, the multi-device removal and installation tools disclosed herein can eliminate the need to transfer devices (e.g., cutting cones and / or sampling cones) between fixtures that can be used for removal, cleaning, storage, and / or installation of the device. For example, device removal tools and torque limiting tools can be used as needed for devices, such as cutting cones and / or sampling cones, for removal, cleaning, storage, and / or installation of the device.

[0034] Based on the examples disclosed herein, the multi-device removal and installation tools disclosed herein can apply controlled torque to devices (such as cutting cones) to ensure a consistent, sealed installation of the cutting cone on the instrument without damaging the device's threads due to overtightening.

[0035] Based on the examples disclosed herein, the multi-device removal and installation tools disclosed herein can provide support for devices (such as snipping cones and / or sampling cones) at a specified height (e.g., altitude). In this regard, once the device is held in the device removal tool, the device can be uniformly immersed in a solution, such as an ultrasonic bath. For example, two or more devices can each be held in a respective device removal tool, which can be placed in a solution to uniformly immerse these devices.

[0036] According to the examples disclosed herein, the multi-device removal and installation tool disclosed herein can hold devices (such as snipping cones and / or sampling cones) in an inverted manner. In this regard, when the device is placed in a solution, specific portions of the device, such as the tip, can be immersed in the solution. Therefore, the device can be placed in one or more solutions, for example, a first solution for immersing the tip of the device and a second solution for immersing the bottom portion of the device.

[0037] Based on the examples disclosed herein, the multi-device removal and installation tool provided herein offers a hands-free platform for inspecting devices such as snipping cones and / or sampling cones. In this regard, once the device is held within the device removal tool, it can be inspected without requiring the user to manually grasp the device.

[0038] Reference Figure 1-12B It further describes in detail the multi-device removal and installation tools.

[0039] Specifically Figure 1 An isometric view of a multi-device removal and installation tool 100, including a device removal tool 102 and a torque limiting tool 104, is shown as an example according to this disclosure. Furthermore, according to an example of this disclosure, Figure 2 The illustrated perspective view of the instrument 200 includes a first device 202 and a second device 204 that can be disassembled by the multi-device removal and installation tool 100, as well as an enlarged exploded view of the first device 202, the second device 204, and related components.

[0040] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The multi-device removal and installation tool 100 may include a device removal tool 102 and a torque limiting tool 104. As disclosed herein, the device removal tool 102 can be used to remove, hold, and / or reinstall devices, such as the cut cone and / or sampling cone of instrument 200, which may include an ICP-MS instrument. To explain the operation of the device removal tool 102 and the torque limiting tool 104, the first device 202 and the second device 204 may correspond to the cut cone and sampling cone of instrument 200, respectively. However, given this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that the first device 202 and the second device 204 may correspond to the sampling cone and cut cone of instrument 200, respectively. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that, given this disclosure, the first device 202 and the second device 204 may be any of a variety of devices that can be gripped by the device removal tool 102 disclosed herein. Additionally, reference will be made to… Figure 2-12B Further detailed description Figure 1 Further components identified in the process.

[0041] Reference Figure 2 Other components are shown, such as the outer retaining ring 206, the device mounting bracket 208, and the manifold assembly 210. The device bracket 208 may include an internal thread 212, into which a threaded portion 214 of the first device 202 may be threadedly engaged to secure the first device 202 to the device mounting bracket 208. The second device 204 may be secured to the manifold assembly 210 via the outer retaining ring 206.

[0042] Figure 3 An isometric view of the device removal tool 102 is shown, and according to an example of this disclosure, a first side with a first receiver having a first size and removably receiving the first device 202 is shown. Figure 4 An isometric view of the device removal tool 102 is shown, and according to an example of this disclosure, a second side with a second receiver having a second size and removably receiving the second device 204 is shown. Figure 5 It is based on an example of this disclosed text, roughly following Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the device removal tool 102 taken by line 5-5, including a first device 202 removably received in a first receiver. Further, Figure 6 It is based on an example of this disclosure text, roughly following Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the device removal tool 102 taken by line 6-6, including a second device 204 removably received in a second receiver.

[0043] Reference Figure 1-4,in particular Figure 3 and Figure 4 The device removal tool 102 may include a first side 300 having a first receiver 302 having a first size 304 and removably receiving a first device 202. The device removal tool 102 may also include a second side 400 having a second receiver 402 having a second size 404 and removably receiving a second device 204. The first size 304 may differ from the second size 404.

[0044] Reference Figure 1-6 ,in particular Figure 3-6 The device removal tool 102 may include a plurality of snap-fit ​​members (e.g., 306 or 406) that can engage with a mating surface (e.g., 500 or 600) of a device (e.g., first device 202 or second device 204) to attach the device removal tool 102 to the device (e.g., first device 202 or second device 204) when the plurality of snap-fit ​​members (e.g., 306 or 406) engage with the mating surface (e.g., 500 or 600). The plurality of snap-fit ​​members (e.g., 306 or 406) may engage with the mating surface (e.g., 500 or 600) with a removal force sufficient to remove the device (e.g., first device 202 or second device 204) from the instrument 200 when the plurality of snap-fit ​​members (e.g., 306 or 406) engage with the mating surface (e.g., 500 or 600). For example, for the first device 202 and the second device 204, the removal force may be greater than or equal to 20G, perpendicular to the axis 118 of the device removal tool 102. This force is required to remove the device (e.g., the first device 202 or the second device 204) from the instrument 200 when the plurality of snap-fit ​​members (e.g., 306 or 406) engage with the mating surfaces (e.g., 500 or 600). This removal force may be specified to prevent the first device 202 and / or the second device 204 from being unintentionally ejected from the device removal tool 102. However, even in the presence of bonding corrosion in the area of ​​the first device 202 and / or the second device 204, this removal force is sufficient to remove the first device 202 and / or the second device 204 from the instrument 200. Those skilled in the art will understand that the removal force can be increased or decreased depending on various factors, such as the material and / or dimensional characteristics of the first device 202 and / or the second device 204, the material and / or dimensional characteristics of the device removal tool 102, the characteristics of the instrument 200, etc. However, in general, the removal force can be from about 20G to about 100G, for example, from about 50G to about 100G for the first device 202 and from about 20G to about 25G for the second device 204.

[0045] Regarding the snap-fit ​​components (e.g., 306 or 406), according to the examples disclosed herein, the plurality of snap-fit ​​components (e.g., 306 or 406) may include three or more snap-fit ​​components. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, for a specific configuration of the device removal tool 102 disclosed herein, the plurality of snap-fit ​​members 306 may include four snap-fit ​​members that can engage with the engagement surface 500 of a device (e.g., first device 202) including an instrument 200. According to another example disclosed herein, the plurality of snap-fit ​​members 406 may include six snap-fit ​​members that can engage with the engagement surface 600 of a device (e.g., second device 204) including an instrument 200. However, in light of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that the number of snap-fit ​​members (e.g., 306 or 406) used for attaching the device removal tool 102 to a device (e.g., first device 202 or second device 204) may be increased or decreased as needed without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, in light of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that the device (e.g., first device 202 or second device 204) may include any type of device that can be gripped and moved by the device removal tool 102.

[0046] Refer again Figure 1-6 Especially reference Figure 3-6 According to the examples disclosed herein, the plurality of snap-fit ​​components (e.g., 306 or 406) may be generally oriented toward a first direction of the device removal tool 102 (e.g., in...). Figure 5 The upward direction in the direction of the second direction. In this regard, the device removal tool 102 may include a plurality of further snap-fit ​​members (e.g., another of 306 or 406) that are generally oriented in the second direction (e.g., in the direction of the second direction). Figure 6 The orientation of the upward direction; note that the orientation of the device removal tool 102 is in... Figure 5 and Figure 6The first direction is the opposite of the second direction. The further plurality of snap-fit ​​members (e.g., another of 306 or 406) may engage with a further engagement surface (e.g., another of 500 or 600) of a further device (e.g., another of 202 or 204) to attach the device removal tool 102 to the further device (e.g., another of 202 or 204) when the further plurality of snap-fit ​​members (e.g., another of 306 or 406) are engaged with the further engagement surface (e.g., another of 500 or 600). In this regard, the aforementioned device (e.g., another of 202 or 204) may include a snipping cone or a sampling cone, and the further device may include another of a snipping cone or a sampling cone. The further plurality of snap-fit ​​members (e.g., another of 306 or 406) can engage with a further engagement surface (e.g., another of 500 or 600), and the further removal force is sufficient to remove the further device (e.g., another of 202 or 204) from the instrument 200 when the further plurality of snap-fit ​​members (e.g., another of 306 or 406) engage with the further engagement surface (e.g., another of 500 or 600).

[0047] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 6 Regarding the mating surface 600, according to the examples disclosed herein, the mating surface 600 may include a groove 602 that engages with the plurality of snap-fit ​​members 406. For example, the mating surface 600 may include a V-shaped or U-shaped groove. However, in view of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that the shape of the groove 602 may be formed in any configuration to engage the snap-fit ​​members without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0048] Figure 7 An example is shown according to this disclosure text. Figure 1 The exploded isometric view of the torque limiting tool 104. Figure 8 This is an example based on the text of this disclosure. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the device removal tool 102 and torque limiting tool 104 in an installation configuration, wherein a portion of the first receiver 302 is removed to show the operation of the plurality of torque beams of the device removal tool 102 and the plurality of protrusions of the torque limiting tool 104. Figure 9 This is an example based on the text of this disclosure. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the device removal tool 102 and torque limiting tool 104 in an installation configuration, showing the operation of the torque beam 108 of the device removal tool 102 and the protrusion 106 of the torque limiting tool 104.

[0049] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7-9 ,in particular Figure 8 and Figure 9 The torque limiting tool 104 may include at least one protrusion 106 and may removably engage with the device removal tool 102. The torque limiting tool 104 can be accessed via the at least one protrusion 106 in a first rotational direction of the torque limiting tool 104 and the device removal tool 102 (e.g., in...). Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the counterclockwise direction of the orientation, a tightening torque is applied to the first device 202. Furthermore, the torque limiting tool 104 can be controlled via the at least one protrusion 106 in the second rotational direction of the torque limiting tool 104 and the device removal tool 102 (e.g., in the direction of the device removal tool 102). Figure 8 and Figure 9 A loosening torque is applied to the first device 202 in a clockwise direction (in terms of orientation).

[0050] Still referencing Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7-9 ,in particular Figure 8 and Figure 9 The at least one protrusion 106 may engage with at least one torque beam 108 of the device removal tool 102 to deflect the at least one torque beam 108 when a tightening torque exceeding a torque threshold is applied (e.g., in...). Figure 8 (Oriented upwards and outwards) to limit the tightening torque applied to the first device 202. For example, as Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the inclined surface 900 of the at least one torque beam 108 can engage with the at least one protrusion 106 to deflect the at least one torque beam 108 when a tightening torque exceeding a torque threshold is applied, thereby limiting the tightening torque applied to the first device 202. In this way, the torque beam can prevent over-tightening of the first device 202 when it is rotatably attached back to the instrument 200. Furthermore, as... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the complementary mating surface 902 of the at least one torque beam 108 can engage with the at least one protrusion 106 to provide unlimited torque to release the first device 202.

[0051] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of a torque limiting tool 104, as shown in an example according to this disclosure, is generally along... Figure 1 The line 10-10 is cut off and includes an enlarged view of the ball and stop for controlling the orientation of the drive member 112.

[0052] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 10The at least one protrusion 106 of the torque limiting tool 104 may be provided on the retainer 110. The retainer 110 may be removably engaged with the device removal tool 102, which engages with the engagement surface 500 of the first device 202. The torque limiting tool 104 may include a drive member 112 having an inner surface 1000 and an outer surface 1002. Figure 1 and Figure 7 As shown, the drive member 112 can be rotatably connected via a connector 700 (including an intermediate washer 702), which allows the drive member 112 to rotate relative to the knob 126. Furthermore, as... Figure 10 As shown, the torque limiting tool 104 may include at least one stop 1004 disposed on the inner surface 1000, with a corresponding ball 1006 pressed into the at least one stop by the drive member 112. For example, the torque limiting tool 104 may include six stops, with corresponding balls pressed into them by the drive member 112. The engagement of the stops and balls provides alignment of the at least one protrusion 106 with at least one recess 120 to facilitate the coupling device removal tool 102 and the torque limiting tool 104. The at least one recess 120 (e.g., Figure 1 The four recesses shown can be associated with at least one corresponding boss 408 of the device removal tool 102 (e.g., Figure 4 The four bosses shown engage to align the device removal tool 102 with the torque limiting tool 104.

[0053] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 7 The torque limiting tool 104 may include at least one engaging portion 128 to engage a lever tool (not shown). For example, the engaging portion 128 may include a groove into which the lever tool may be inserted to rotate the torque limiting tool 104.

[0054] Figure 11 An example is shown according to this disclosure text. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the device removal tool 102 and torque limiting tool 104 in an installation configuration shows the operation of the torque limiting tool pin for rotating the first device 202, and the clamp for attaching the torque limiting tool 104 to the device removal tool 102.

[0055] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 11Once the device removal tool 102 is engaged with the torque limiting tool 104, the assembled multi-device removal and installation tool 100 can be positioned on the first device 202 (which may include a cutting cone) and rotated until the torque limiting tool pins 122 (e.g., the two torque limiting tool pins shown) protrude from the holes 124 to engage the complementary holes 1100 of the first device 202. In this regard, at least one clamp 1102 of the device removal tool 102 (e.g., Figure 11 The two clips shown can be elastically engaged with the groove 1104 of the retainer 110 to connect the device removal tool 102 to the torque limiting tool 104.

[0056] Figure 12A and Figure 12B A schematic cross-sectional view of a device removal tool 102 and a torque limiting tool 104 in an installation configuration, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown, illustrating the operation of the separation beam 1200 of the device removal tool 102.

[0057] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 12A and Figure 12B The device removal tool 102 may include at least one separation beam 1200 to apply a loosening torque to the first device 202 (e.g., in...). Figure 8 and Figure 9 When the device removal tool 102 is pushed toward the first device 202 in a clockwise direction (in terms of orientation), the plurality of snap-fit ​​members 306 are allowed to engage with the engagement surface 500 of the first device 202. In this respect, when the first device 202 is mounted on the instrument 200, the engagement surface 500 of the first device 202 can contact the planar surface of the manifold assembly 210. This contact can restrict the position of the device removal tool 102 so that the snap-fit ​​members 306 and the planar surface of the manifold assembly 210 are coplanar, preventing the plurality of snap-fit ​​members 306 from engaging with the engagement surface 500 of the first device 202. Once the torque limiting tool 104 is pressed toward the first device 202, at least one separation beam 1200 can... Figure 12A The orientation is tilted upwards. Next, refer to... Figure 12B As the first device 202 is loosened, it can push the torque limiting tool 104 away from the manifold assembly 210, while the at least one separating beam 1200 can push the device removal tool 102 toward the manifold assembly 210. As the first device 202 continues to be loosened, the front end face 1202 of the first device can remain on the target face 1204 of the device removal tool, and the plurality of snap-fit ​​members 306 can engage with the engagement surface 500 to retain the first device 202.

[0058] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 The device removal tool 102 may further include at least one device ejector 114, which includes a tab 116 movable to eject the second device 204 from the device removal tool 102. In one example, the tab 116 may be depressed to eject the second device 204 from the device removal tool 102. For example, when the tab 116 is depressed, the ejector surface 410 may contact the inner plane 604 of the second device 204, thereby ejecting the second device 204 from the device removal tool 102. Alternatively, if the ejector surface 410 contacts and engages with the inner plane 604 of the second device 204, when the tab 116 is depressed, the ejector surface 410 may be used to sufficiently push the second device 204 to overcome the removal force of the snap-fit ​​member 406 and the engagement surface 600, thereby ejecting the second device 204 from the device removal tool 102.

[0059] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 3-6 According to the examples disclosed herein, the dimensions of the first receiver 302 and the second receiver 402 can be designed to hold the first device 202 and the second device 204 at a specified height 502. For example, the specified height 502 can allow the first device 202 and the second device 204 to be immersed in a container containing a specified amount of liquid or another cleaning material for maintenance and / or cleaning purposes, without the need to use different containers for the first device 202 and the second device 204.

[0060] Refer again Figure 1 According to the examples disclosed herein, the device removal tool 102 may be formed of at least polyetherimide (PEI). However, in view of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that the device removal tool 102 may be formed of other suitable materials that can be used to attach the device removal tool 102 to the device (e.g., 202 or 204) and to retain the device (e.g., 202 or 204) in the device removal tool 102 during cleaning and other maintenance operations on the device (e.g., 202 or 204) without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0061] Reference Figure 1-12B The operation of the multi-device removal and installation tool 100 is described in further detail.

[0062] Specifically, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6Regarding the use of the device removal tool 102 for a second device, which may include a sampling cone, once the second device 204 is exposed to the instrument 200, the second receiver 402 of the device removal tool 102 can be placed on and pressed against the second device 204 until the device removal tool 102 contacts and engages with the inner plane 604 of the second device 204. Once the device removal tool 102 contacts and engages with the inner plane 604, the locking member 406 can engage with the engagement surface 600 of the second device 204. The device removal tool 102 can then be withdrawn from the instrument 200 (e.g., by pulling it open), and the second device 204 is securely retained therein.

[0063] Once the second device 204, still placed in the device removal tool 102, is removed from the instrument 200, it can be accessed for maintenance and other purposes as needed. For example, features such as the cone tip, cone orifice, and cone threads of the second device 204 can be inspected, and mechanical cleaning can be performed on the second device 204 as needed. For example, the second device 204, including the sampling cone, can be placed in an ultrasonic cleaner with the cone tip 606 facing downwards (e.g., in…). Figure 6 (In the orientation). Various types of cleaning solutions or solvents can be used to clean the cone tip 606. In this regard, as disclosed herein, other devices (e.g., the first device 202) may also be used with the cone tip 504 facing downwards (e.g., in the orientation). Figure 5 In the case of orientation), they are placed in an ultrasonic cleaner. However, further, as disclosed herein, the first device 202 and the second device 204 can be held at a specified height 502 according to the dimensions of the first receiver 302 and the second receiver 402. For example, the specified height 502 can be specified such that a specified amount of the conical tips (e.g., 504 and 606) of the first device 202 and the second device 204 are immersed in the cleaning solution or solvent.

[0064] After maintenance and / or cleaning of the second device 204 is completed, the second device 204, still placed in the device removal tool 102, can be stored for later use or otherwise returned to the instrument 200. If the second device 204 is to be returned to the instrument 200, the device removal tool 102, holding the second device 204, can be brought to the instrument 200. The second device 204 can be placed back into the manifold assembly 210. The tabs 116 of each device ejector 114 can be pinched to eject the second device 204 from the device removal tool 102, and the device removal tool 102 can be pulled out of the instrument 200 (e.g., pulled away), while the second device 204 remains in the manifold assembly 210.

[0065] Continue to refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 10 Regarding the use of the device to remove tool 102 for a first device 202 that may include a cutting cone, the torque limiting tool 104 can be used to... Figure 1 The orientation is connected to the device removal tool 102. In this regard, as referred to herein... Figure 10 As disclosed, the torque limiting tool 104 may include at least one stop 1004 disposed on the inner surface 1000, into which a corresponding ball 1006 is pressed by the drive member 112. For example, the torque limiting tool 104 may include six stops, into which corresponding balls are pressed by the drive member 112. As disclosed herein, the engagement of the stops and balls provides alignment of the at least one protrusion 106 with the at least one recess 120 to facilitate the connection of the means to remove the tool 102 and the torque limiting tool 104.

[0066] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 8 and Figure 11 Once the device removal tool 102 is engaged with the torque limiting tool 104, the assembled multi-device removal and installation tool 100 can be positioned on the first device 202 (which may include a cutting cone) and rotated until the torque limiting tool pins 122 (e.g., the two torque limiting tool pins shown) protrude from the hole 124 to engage the complementary hole 1100 of the first device 202. It can now be rotated counterclockwise (e.g., in the direction of rotation). Figure 8 Turn the knob 126 of the torque limiting tool 104 clockwise to unscrew the first device 202 off the manifold assembly 210.

[0067] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 12A and Figure 12B When the first device 202 is loosened, at least one separating beam 1200, when a loosening torque is applied to the first device 202 (e.g., in...), Figure 8 and Figure 9 When the orientation is clockwise, the device removal tool 102 can be pushed toward the first device 202 to allow the plurality of snap-fit ​​members 306 to engage with the engagement surface 500 of the first device 202.

[0068] Continue to refer to Figure 1 , Figure 12A and Figure 12B The torque limiting tool 104 can be disconnected from the device removal tool 102 (e.g., by pulling it apart), and the first device 202 can be removed from the instrument 200 and held securely in the device removal tool 102.

[0069] refer to Figure 1-3 and Figure 5Similar to the second device 204 discussed above, once the first device 202, still disposed in the device removal tool 102, is removed from the instrument 200, it can be accessed as needed for maintenance and other purposes. For example, for the first device 202 including a cutting cone, features such as the cone tip, cone orifice, and cone threads can be inspected, and the first device 202 can be mechanically cleaned as needed. For example, for the first device 202 including a cutting cone, the first device 202 can be placed in an ultrasonic cleaner with the cone tip 504 facing down (e.g., in...). Figure 5 (In the orientation). Various types of cleaning solutions or solvents can be used to clean the cone tip 504. In this regard, as disclosed herein, other devices (e.g., the second device 204) may also be used with the cone tip 606 facing downwards (e.g., in the orientation). Figure 6 In the case of orientation), they are placed in an ultrasonic cleaner. However, further, as disclosed herein, the first device 202 and the second device 204 can be held at a specified height 502 according to the dimensions of the first receiver 302 and the second receiver 402. For example, the specified height 502 can be specified such that a specified amount of the conical tips (e.g., 504 and 606) of the first device 202 and the second device 204 are immersed in the cleaning solution or solvent.

[0070] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 8 After maintenance and / or cleaning of the first device 202 is completed, the first device 202, still placed in the device removal tool 102, can be stored for later use or otherwise returned to the instrument 200. If the first device 202 is to be returned to the instrument 200, the device removal tool 102, holding the first device 202, can be brought to the instrument 200. The first device 202 can be partially threaded onto the manifold assembly 210. The torque limiting tool 104 can be engaged with the device removal tool 102 through the hole 124 by engaging the complementary hole 1100 of the first device 202 with the torque limiting tool pins 122 (e.g., the two torque limiting tool pins shown). The knob 126 of the torque limiting tool 104 can now be turned clockwise (e.g., in...). Figure 8 (In the orientation counterclockwise), the first device 202 is screwed into the manifold assembly 210. As the applied tightening torque on the first device 202 increases, when the applied tightening torque exceeds a torque threshold, at least one torque beam 108 of the device removal tool 102 can deflect (e.g., in...). Figure 8At least one torque beam 108 (oriented outwards) is used to limit the tightening torque applied to the first device 202. Generally, the torque beam 108 can deflect when the torque applied to tighten the first device 202 reaches about 4 Nm or more, for example, about 4 Nm to about 5 Nm. In this way, the torque beam can prevent the first device 202 from being over-tightened when it is rotatably attached back to the instrument 200. Once at least one torque beam 108 is deflected outwards, the knob 126 can rotate freely, and the assembly including the device removal tool 102 and the torque limiting tool 104 can be pulled away from the installed first device 202.

[0071] The examples described and illustrated herein are one example and some variations thereof. The terminology, descriptions, and figures used herein are set forth by way of illustration only and are not intended to be limiting. Many variations are possible within the spirit and scope of the subject matter and are intended to be defined by the following claims and their equivalents, wherein, unless otherwise stated, all terms are to be interpreted in their broadest reasonable sense.

Claims

1. A multi-device removal and installation tool, comprising: A device removal tool includes a plurality of first snap-fit ​​members capable of engaging with a first mating surface of a first device, such that when the plurality of first snap-fit ​​members are engaged with the first mating surface, the device removal tool is attached to the first device. The plurality of first snap-fit ​​components engage with the first mating surface with a first removal force, the first removal force being sufficient to remove the first device from the instrument when the plurality of first snap-fit ​​components engage with the first mating surface. The plurality of first snap-fit ​​components are generally oriented toward a first direction of the device removal tool. The device removal tool includes a plurality of second latching components, which are generally oriented in a second direction that is generally opposite to the first direction.

2. The multi-device removal and installation tool according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of first snap-fit ​​components comprises at least three snap-fit ​​components.

3. The multi-device removal and installation tool according to claim 1, wherein the first engagement surface includes a groove that engages with the plurality of first snap-fit ​​members.

4. The multi-device removal and installation tool according to claim 1, wherein the first device comprises a sampling cone or a truncation cone comprising an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) instrument.

5. The multi-device removal and installation tool according to claim 1, wherein the device removal tool is formed of at least polyetherimide.

6. The multi-device removal and installation tool according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of second latching members are capable of engaging with the second mating surface of the second device, so that when the plurality of second latching members are engaged with the second mating surface, the device removal tool is attached to the second device, and The plurality of second snap-fit ​​members engage with the second mating surface with a second removal force, the second removal force being sufficient to remove the second device from the instrument when the plurality of second snap-fit ​​members engage with the second mating surface.

7. The multi-device removal and installation tool according to claim 1, wherein the device removal tool further comprises at least one torque beam.

8. The multi-device removal and installation tool according to claim 1, further comprising: A torque limiting tool, comprising at least one protrusion and removably engaging with the device removal tool, wherein the torque limiting tool is for... Through the at least one protrusion, a tightening torque is applied to the first device in the first rotational direction of the torque limiting tool and the device removal tool, and A loosening torque is applied to the first device via the at least one protrusion in a second rotational direction of the torque limiting tool and the device removal tool, wherein the second rotational direction is substantially opposite to the first rotational direction.

9. The multi-device removal and installation tool of claim 8, wherein the at least one protrusion is capable of engaging at least one torque beam of the device removal tool to deflect the at least one torque beam when the applied tightening torque exceeds a torque threshold, thereby limiting the tightening torque applied to the first device.

10. The multi-device removal and installation tool of claim 8, wherein the device removal tool includes at least one separation beam for pushing the device removal tool toward the first device when the loosening torque is applied to the first device, so as to allow the plurality of first snap-fit ​​members to engage with the first engagement surface of the first device.

11. The multi-device removal and installation tool of claim 1, wherein the device removal tool includes at least one device ejector, the at least one device ejector including a tab movable to eject the first device from the device removal tool.

Images