Diffusion head and titration device

Abstract

A diffusion head for a supply line and a titration apparatus are disclosed, the diffusion head comprising a body having a proximal end, a distal end and a circumferential surface, where a channel having a proximal end and a distal end is provided in the circumferential surface. The channel has a first channel section extending from a proximal end of the channel to a distal end of the first channel section, the distal end of the first channel section proximate the distal end of the body. The channel has a second channel section extending from a proximal end of the second channel section to a distal end of the channel, the proximal end of the second channel section being distal from the proximal end of the body and proximal to the distal end of the first channel section such that the first channel section and the second channel section have an axial overlap on the body but do not intersect. The channel has a transverse channel section connecting and extending between a first channel section and a second channel section that couples the first channel section at a first proximal-distal location of the body and the second channel section at a second proximal-distal location of the body. The second proximal-distal location is proximate to the first proximal-distal location.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a diffuser head for use in a titration tubing. Background Technology

[0002] Titration apparatuses are well-known devices that add a known amount of titrant of a known concentration to the sample solution until a phenomenon occurs, such as a measurable change in the potential of a pair of electrodes immersed in the sample. The ideal concentration of a component in the sample can then be determined based on the titrant dosage required to produce a measurable change in the sample.

[0003] Clearly, the accuracy of the measurement depends primarily on the accuracy of the titrant consumption. Therefore, the diffuser head of the burette is typically immersed in the sample to prevent titration errors.

[0004] However, using an immersion diffuser head introduces another problem: when the density of the titrant is greater than that of the sample being measured, uncontrolled titrant leakage occurs from the diffuser head. In precision measurements, this leads to significant errors, which increase the longer the diffuser head remains in the sample, and also increase errors caused by diffusion across the boundary surface between the titrant and the sample. The Metrohm Titroproccssor 636 instrument offers a solution to this problem by isolating the titrator tubing from the sample using a membrane that functions as a one-way valve, allowing the titrant to flow out of the instrument but preventing the sample from entering the tubing. In this way, diffusion and density errors caused when the specific density of the titrant is greater than that of the sample are virtually eliminated. One drawback of this known system is that it cannot achieve maximum resolution titration in the microliter range because such small increments of titrant cannot overcome the membrane's shut-off pressure.

[0005] To avoid this drawback, the Mettler Instrumente AG DL40 titrator recommends equipping the diffuser head with an annular glass siphon tube. Based on the known principle of siphoning, this instrument allows a certain amount of sample with a specific density lower than the titrant to enter the upper arc of the siphon ring. Depending on the size of the diffuser head, this amount can be limited to a few microliters. In precision measurements, the diffuser head is typically rinsed periodically after each titration. Since the amount of external liquid at the beginning and end of the measurement is the same, a small amount of sample liquid will not cause measurement error, thus neutralizing its influence on the measurement. The instrument can quantify extremely small amounts of liquid, but the effects of diffusion error must be accepted.

[0006] Circular glass siphons have inherent disadvantages: they are relatively expensive to manufacture; they are easily contaminated due to the need for careful cleaning; and finally, they are at great risk of breakage.

[0007] US6182517 recommends the use of a one-way valve. However, moving parts may be prone to sticking, for example, depending on the fluid used. US4719086 recommends the use of a diffuser head inserted into a hose or pipe to supply the titrant fluid, wherein a siphon channel is provided on the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body to supply the titrant fluid through the channel. The channel forms a siphon primarily through two 180° bends with a vertical ascending section in the middle and arranged between two vertical descending sections, which are open at the proximal and distal ends of the diffuser head body, respectively. The diffuser head can be immersed in the sample. According to the functional description, if the specific density of the titrant is less than or equal to the specific density of the sample liquid, the boundary surface will coincide with the outlet at the lower end of the channel channel opening between the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body and the hose or pipe. If the specific density of the titrant is greater than the specific density of the sample, the sample liquid will enter the siphon channel due to the density difference, and due to the siphon effect, the boundary surface between the sample liquid and the titrant will be formed in the vertical ascending section. However, it has been observed that in some cases, due to the 180° bend in the siphon channel, pressure loss may exacerbate the need for precise titration of the titrant and may easily cause blockage. Utility Model Content

[0008] Generally, the objective of this invention is to provide a device that prevents sample fluid from entering a tubing or conduit through which titrant enters the sample, while simultaneously preventing runaway titrant from the diffuser head. In a more specific aspect, the objective of the subject matter disclosed herein is to provide a titration head as initially mentioned. More specifically, the device should overcome some of the disadvantages of the aforementioned technology. More specifically, the device should enable precise titration of the titrant and / or improve reliability, for example, reducing or preferably preventing clogging.

[0009] This can be achieved through the subject matter of this application. Other effects and advantages of the disclosed subject matter, whether or not explicitly stated, will become apparent from the following disclosure.

[0010] Therefore, this utility model discloses a diffuser head for a titration tube, comprising a body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a circumferential surface. A channel is provided in the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body, the channel having a proximal end and a distal end. The channel has a first channel segment extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the channel. The distal end of the first channel segment is adjacent to the distal end of the body. The channel also has a second channel segment extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the channel. The proximal end of the second channel segment is away from the proximal end of the body but adjacent to the distal end of the first channel segment. Therefore, the first channel segment and the second channel segment have axial overlap on the body of the diffuser head. However, the first channel segment and the second channel segment do not intersect. At each proximal-to-distal position of the diffuser body, i.e., at each position between the proximal and distal ends of the diffuser body, at least at an axial or proximal-to-distal segment overlapping the first and second channel segments on the diffuser body, the first and second channel segments are circumferentially offset from each other. The channel also has a transverse channel segment connecting the first and second channel segments and extending between them, wherein the transverse channel segment is connected to the first and second channel segments. In some aspects, the channel consists of a first channel segment, a second channel segment, and a transverse channel segment. The transverse channel segment is connected to the first channel segment at a first proximal-to-distal position of the diffuser body, and the transverse channel segment is connected to the second channel segment at a second proximal-to-distal position of the diffuser body, wherein the second proximal-to-distal position is adjacent to the first proximal-to-distal position. These positions can be measured at the intersection of the centerline of the transverse channel segment and the corresponding centerlines of the first and second channel segments.

[0011] In a specific embodiment, the term "lateral channel segment" may refer to a channel segment that crosses a portion of the periphery of the diffuser head body in an inclined, ascending manner, or across an azimuth distance or circumferential angular distance, i.e., an angular distance measured about the proximal-to-distal axis of the diffuser head body. The lateral channel segment may, in particular, extend along a portion of the periphery of the diffuser head body on its circumferential surface and include an inclination greater than zero and less than 90° with respect to the circumferential direction on the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body.

[0012] The periphery or circumferential direction does not necessarily mean a body with a circular, oval, or elliptical cross-section; it can also refer to a body with a polygonal cross-section, etc. It is understood that, in specific embodiments, the diffuser head body can be a cylinder or a truncated cylinder with a circular cross-section.

[0013] Compared to the aforementioned prior art, the channel forming the flow path does not include a vertically ascending section in some respects when the diffuser head is inserted into a pipe, hose, or other supply line. It has been found that a slopingly ascending transverse channel section can also be used to achieve a siphon effect while avoiding the 180° bends suggested in the previous technique. Therefore, when the titrant is metered into the sample through the flow path, the pressure loss is less than in the conventional technique, allowing for more accurate titrant metering. Furthermore, the avoidance of narrow bends reduces overall flow deflection, thereby lowering the risk of flow path blockage.

[0014] The proximal end of the diffuser head body is understood as the end of the body located upstream in the flow direction of titrant diffusion into the sample, while the distal end specifies the end of the body immersed in the sample, i.e., downstream in the flow direction of titrant diffusion into the sample. In embodiments, the diffuser head can be symmetrical, i.e., each end of the body can be considered either the proximal or distal end, and the other end of the body can be considered the other end of the proximal and distal ends. However, in other cases, it is possible to clearly distinguish which end of the body is the proximal end and which end is the distal end.

[0015] The cross-sections of the first channel section, the second channel section, and the transverse channel section can be exactly the same.

[0016] In some exemplary embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first channel segment decreases at least a portion of its length toward the transverse channel segment. The cross-sectional areas of the transverse channel segment and / or the second channel segment may remain constant and / or be the same. When fluid is pushed through the diffuser head, the tapered cross-sectional area of ​​the first channel segment increases the fluid velocity, thereby helping to prevent blockage. Furthermore, when the diffuser head is inserted into the supply line, the pipe, hose, or other supply line forming the flow channel with the channel experiences less pressure near the diffuser head than at the distal end. This prevents accidental deformation of the supply line due to fluid pressure, which could potentially lead to leaks in the flow channel.

[0017] It should be noted that, within the framework of this disclosure, the use of the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not indicate singularity, nor does it indicate the exclusion of multiple named components or features. Therefore, it should be understood as "at least one" or "one or more".

[0018] Furthermore, in this application, "boundary" and "adjacent" as well as "boundary of" and "adjacent to" are considered synonyms.

[0019] When observing the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body, the transverse channel segments are bounded by proximal and distal boundary lines. In some respects, the farthest endpoint of the proximal boundary line of the transverse channel segment is far from the nearest endpoint of the distal boundary line of the transverse channel segment. In other words, the proximal connecting cross-section where the transverse channel segment connects to the second channel segment is located near the distal connecting cross-section where the transverse channel segment connects to the first channel segment, and these connecting cross-sections do not overlap in the proximal-to-distal direction.

[0020] A transverse channel segment can be connected to the first channel segment at its distal end. Similarly, a transverse channel segment can be connected to the second channel segment at its proximal end.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first channel segment and / or the second channel segment and / or the transverse channel segment is a direct current (DC) segment. In one aspect, it can be stated that fluid flowing through a DC channel segment will not be deflected across the channel segment width. The channel width may be defined as the distance between channel boundaries on the circumferential outer surface of the diffuser head's body. It can be stated in one aspect that the DC segment, or its centerline, is correspondingly located on a plane that is not orthogonal to the proximal-distal axis of the diffuser head's body. In particular, the DC segment extends linearly in an unfolded view of the diffuser head's outer surface. The term "unfolded view" should be understood as the unfolding of geometry in a plane (German term "Abwicklung"). In another aspect, the path of the linear channel segment can be described using dh / ds=constant, where h is the coordinate along the proximal-distal direction of the diffuser head's body, and s is measured along the channel segment length. In yet another aspect, the linear channel segment, i.e., at least one of the first channel segment and / or the second channel segment and / or the transverse channel segment, or its centerline, has a constant lead angle. It is important to note that, generally, each point on the body of the diffuser head can be defined in cylindrical coordinates by its axial position h, radial distance r from the longitudinal axis, and azimuth angle φ. Therefore, in this equation, h is the coordinate along the proximal-to-distal direction of the diffuser head body, r is the distance between the point on the diffuser head body and the proximal-to-distal axis of the diffuser head body, and φ is the azimuth angle of the diffuser head body measured about the proximal-to-distal axis, i.e., the azimuth angle represents the circumferential angular position relative to the diffuser head body. Within this range, the transverse channel segment can follow a path defined in cylindrical coordinates by dh = m∙rdφ or dh = m∙rcos(φ)dφ, where the proximal-to-distal axis of the diffuser head body defines the longitudinal axis of the coordinate system. If m is a constant and m ≠ 0, the transverse channel segment can be considered a straight channel segment, even if r varies along the path.

[0022] The channel can be configured such that fluid flowing from the proximal end of the channel to the distal end is deflected to the left by a cumulative or total left-hand deflection angle and to the right by a cumulative or total right-hand deflection angle, wherein at least one of the cumulative left deflection angle and the cumulative right deflection angle is less than 180°. More specifically, each of the cumulative left deflection angle and the cumulative right deflection angle may be less than 180°. In other aspects, at least one of the cumulative left deflection angle and the cumulative right deflection angle may be less than 150°, less than 135°, or less than 120°. In still further aspects, each of the cumulative left deflection angle and the cumulative right deflection angle may be less than 150°, less than 135°, or less than 120°.

[0023] In another aspect, the transverse channel segment may be specified as a straight channel segment, and the first channel segment may be specified as a straight channel segment, wherein the angle between the centerline or axis of the first channel segment, i.e., particularly the first channel segment, and the centerline or axis of the transverse channel segment, i.e., particularly the transverse channel segment, is greater than 0° and less than 90°, and even in more specific embodiments, it may be at least one of 30° or more and / or 60° or less. In other words, the first channel segment and the transverse channel segment are not parallel to each other.

[0024] Similarly, the transverse channel segment is a straight channel segment, and the second channel segment is a straight channel segment. The angle formed between the centerline or axis of the transverse channel segment, particularly the transverse channel segment, and the centerline or axis of the second channel segment, particularly the second channel segment, is greater than 0° and less than 90°. In a more specific embodiment, this angle can be at least one of 30° or more and / or 60° or less. In other words, the transverse channel segment and the second channel segment are not parallel to each other.

[0025] Those skilled in the art will understand that the smaller the flow deflection angle, the lower the flow resistance, and the lower the risk of blockage in the flow channel formed by the channel. On the other hand, the smaller the slope of the transverse channel, that is, the smaller the lead angle or slope between the transverse channel section and the circumferential surface of the diffuser body in the circumferential direction, the smaller the proximal-to-far distance spanned by the transverse channel section along a given circumferential scale, and therefore the smaller the height difference that the siphon formed by the transverse channel section can provide.

[0026] In embodiments, the first and second channel segments may be defined to have a constant circumferential angular position, i.e., an azimuth position, on the surface of the diffuser body about the axis of the diffuser body along their respective extension dimensions between their distal and proximal ends. In other aspects, both the first and second channel segments are straight channel segments extending parallel to the axis of the diffuser body. In other aspects, as described above, when described in cylindrical coordinates on the surface of the diffuser body, both the first and second channel segments have a constant azimuth angle along their longitudinal direction. However, it is also conceivable in some embodiments that the first and / or second channel segments are inclined in the circumferential direction relative to the axis of the diffuser body, for example, forming a lead angle of less than 90° with the circumferential direction on the circumferential surface of the diffuser body, which may help to further reduce the aforementioned deflection angle. Furthermore, we can envision an implementation where the first and / or second channel segment is radially inclined relative to the axis of the diffuser head body, i.e., the axis of the diffuser head body and the axis of the first and / or second channel segment form an angle in the common plane of their respective axes. This may help to change the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel. It is also conceivable that, in embodiments, the first and / or second channel segment is inclined in both the radial and circumferential directions relative to the axis of the diffuser head body, thereby combining the aforementioned effects.

[0027] In another embodiment, in the proximal-distal section where the first and second channel segments of the diffuser body overlap axially, the first and second channel segments are offset from each other circumferentially along the diffuser body at each proximal-distal position, wherein the circumferential angular offset between the first and second channel segments is greater than 45°, particularly greater than 50°, and more particularly greater than 60°. When the diffuser is used as intended, this distance helps to achieve a seal between the first and second channel segments along the outer surface of the diffuser body, or in other words, helps to suppress parasitic additional flow, thereby ensuring that fluid flow between the first and second channel segments occurs at least substantially only through the transverse channel segments.

[0028] In a non-limiting embodiment, the first channel segment extends from the proximal end of the diffuser head body and opens on the proximal end face of the diffuser head body. Similarly, a second channel segment may be specified to extend to the distal end of the diffuser head body and open on the distal end face of the diffuser head body.

[0029] At least a proximal section of the diffuser head body can be configured to be received within a supply line, such as a pipe or hose. In these embodiments, the inner wall of the supply line can close the channel section located on the proximal section of the diffuser head body on the outer surface of the diffuser head body to form a closed channel with the channel section. In particular, the at least proximal section can be cylindrical, especially with a circular cross-section, and the outer diameter and configuration of the diffuser head body can be received into the supply line. The at least proximal section extends particularly from the proximal end of the diffuser head body and beyond the distal end of the first channel section.

[0030] The cross-sectional dimension of the distal end of the diffuser head body can be larger than that of the proximal end, for example, a larger diameter. In particular, the size of the distal end section can be larger than the inner diameter of the supply conduit. The proximal end of the distal section can provide a support shoulder, configured and intended to connect with one end of the supply conduit, whereby the proximal end section of the diffuser head body is received within the supply conduit. The distal end section greatly facilitates the operation of the diffuser head, for example, by inserting the proximal end section of the diffuser head into the supply conduit and then removing it from the supply conduit. The diameter of the distal end section is preferably the same as the outer diameter of the supply conduit. This allows for convenient replacement of the diffuser head when needed and also minimizes the space occupied. The length of the distal end section is preferably between 1 and 4 mm, preferably between 2 and 3 mm, allowing the diffuser head to be inserted and removed by hand.

[0031] The opposite sidewalls of the channel can extend from the base of the channel toward the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body. This creates a draft angle, facilitating the removal of the diffuser head from the mold during manufacturing, for example, by injection molding. It can be seen that manufacturing a channeled diffuser head by injection molding significantly reduces costs compared to machining the channel onto the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body.

[0032] A device comprising any of the aforementioned types of diffuser heads and supply lines is also disclosed. The diffuser head includes a proximal end with a first periphery and a distal end with a second periphery. The inner periphery of the supply line and the first periphery of the diffuser head are fitted together, particularly configured such that the proximal end section with the first periphery can be tightly abutted against the supply line. Thus, when the proximal end section is pressed into the supply line, the diffuser head and the supply line form a press-fit connection, and the supply line can cooperate with a channel to form a closed flow path. The second periphery of the diffuser head is larger than the first periphery and forms a support shoulder on the outer periphery of the diffuser head body, thus forming a limiting stop on the proximal end face of the distal end section of the diffuser head when the diffuser head is inserted into the supply line. In a specific embodiment, the outer periphery of the supply line and the second periphery of the diffuser head are at least substantially equal. The length of the distal end section is preferably between 1 and 4 mm, preferably between 2 and 3 mm, so that the diffuser head can be inserted and removed by hand.

[0033] A titration apparatus is also disclosed. This titration apparatus includes a supply line, wherein a first end of the supply line is connected to a titrant source, and a second end of the supply line is fitted with a diffusion head of any of the aforementioned types. At least a portion of the diffusion head is placed within the supply line. In particular, the supply line can tightly wrap around at least a portion of the diffusion head. For example, in this case, the supply line can be a flexible hose that tightly wraps around at least a portion of the diffusion head by its elastic rebound force. The proximal ends of at least a first channel section, a transverse channel section, and a second channel section are located within the supply line and, together with the inner wall of the supply line, form a flow channel opening into the supply line on the circumferential surface of the body of the diffusion head. The diffusion head can constitute one end of the titration apparatus for immersion in a sample.

[0034] It goes without saying that the features and implementation schemes disclosed above can be combined with each other. It can also be further understood that, within the scope of this disclosure and the claimed subject matter, many more implementation schemes can be conceived that are clear and understandable to those skilled in the art and are readily apparent from this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The subject matter of this disclosure will now be explained in more detail with reference to selected exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate:

[0036] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of the diffuser head;

[0037] Figure 2 Figure 1 Details of the diffuser head;

[0038] Figure 3 A view of an exemplary diffuser head along the axis of the diffuser head body;

[0039] Figure 4 An exemplary diffuser head assembled with the supply piping; and

[0040] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a titration apparatus.

[0041] It goes without saying that the accompanying drawings may be highly schematic, and details not necessary for illustrative purposes may be omitted for ease of understanding and description. It should also be understood that the drawings show only selected, illustrative embodiments, and embodiments not shown may still fall entirely within the scope of the subject matter disclosed herein. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Figure 1 Three different views of an exemplary embodiment of the diffuser head 1 are shown, wherein... Figure 1 In b), with Figure 1Compared to view a), the body 11 of the diffuser head 1 has been rotated 90 degrees about its longitudinal axis or proximal-distal axis. Figure 1 In c), with Figure 1 Compared to view b), the body 11 of the diffuser head 1 is rotated 90 degrees around its longitudinal axis in the same manner. For example... Figure 1 As shown in c), those skilled in the art can easily transfer the relevant information to... Figure 1 a) and Figure 1 In (b), the body 11 of the diffuser head extends between a proximal end disposed on a proximal face 111 and a distal end disposed on a distal face 112. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the diffuser head 1 further includes a proximal segment 113 and a distal segment 114 of the body 11. As shown below, the proximal segment 113 of the body 11 is used and configured to be received within a supply line, such as a hose or pipe, for supplying titrant. In particular, in this exemplary embodiment, the proximal segment 113 of the body 11 may be cylindrical, with a diameter matching that of the hose or pipe. The cross-sectional dimension of the distal segment 114 of the body 11 is larger than that of the proximal segment 113 of the body 11, for example, its diameter is larger than that of the proximal segment 113 of the body 11. The diffuser head 1 also includes channels 12 located on the circumferential surface of the body 11. Channel 12 includes, or at least substantially includes, a first channel segment 112 that extends distally to its distal end. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the first channel segment 121 extends proximally to a proximal face 111 of the body 11 of the diffuser head and opens at the proximal face 111. (Refer to...) Figure 1 c) The second channel segment 122 of channel 12 extends proximally to the proximal end of the second channel segment 122. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the second channel segment 122 extends distally to the distal end face 112 of the body 11 of the diffuser head and opens at the distal end face. In this embodiment, the first channel segment is hereinafter also referred to as the proximal channel segment, and the second channel segment is hereinafter also referred to as the distal channel segment. (Comparison) Figure 1 a) and Figure 1c) It is not difficult to observe that the distal end of the first, proximal channel segment 121 is farther than the proximal end of the second, distal channel segment 122. In other words, the proximal channel segment 121 and the distal channel segment 122 have axial overlap or proximal-distal overlap. Furthermore, the proximal channel segment 121 and the distal channel segment 122 are circumferentially offset on the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body 11. In the exemplary embodiment, both the proximal channel segment 121 and the distal channel segment 122 extend along and are parallel to the proximal-distal axis of the diffuser head body 11. However, this is not necessarily the case; either the proximal channel segment 121 or the distal channel segment 122 may be inclined relative to the proximal-distal axis of the diffuser head body 11, which means that the corresponding channel segment is approximately spiral on the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body 11. At each proximal-to-distal position in the axial direction or proximal-to-distal direction of the diffuser head body 11, the first proximal channel segment and the second distal channel segment are offset relative to each other in the circumferential direction. In other words, the first proximal channel segment and the second distal channel segment do not intersect or are directly connected. Figure 1 As shown in b), the transverse channel section 123 of the channel 12 fluidly connects the far end of the near end channel section 121 with the near end of the far end channel section 122.

[0043] Figure 2 Overview Figure 1 (Details II of b). The transverse channel segment 123 has a proximal boundary line 124 and a distal boundary line 125 on the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body 11. (See details II). Figure 2As shown, there is a proximal-to-distal directional or axial offset Δh between the farthest endpoint 1241 of the proximal boundary line 124 of the transverse channel segment 123 and the nearest endpoint 1251 of the distal boundary line 125 of the transverse channel segment 123. This means that the proximal connection cross-section of the transverse channel segment 123 connecting with the second, distal channel segment 122 is completely close to the distal connection cross-section of the transverse channel segment 123 connecting with the first, proximal channel segment 121, and the connection cross-sections do not overlap in the proximal-to-distal direction of the diffuser head body 11. Therefore, the aforementioned siphon effect is achieved. Furthermore, the flow deflection angle A formed by the transverse channel segment 123 and the proximal channel segment 121 is less than 180°, and the flow deflection angle B formed by the transverse channel segment 123 and the distal channel segment 122 is less than 180°. In this exemplary embodiment, both flow deflection angles A and B are approximately 135°. Flow deflection angles A and B are the angles by which the fluid is deflected as it flows from one channel segment to a subsequent (in the flow direction) channel segment through channel 12. In this respect, when the fluid flows through channel 12 from the proximal end 111 to the distal end 112 of the diffuser body 11, flow deflection angle A is a right deflection angle, and flow deflection angle B is a left deflection angle. Furthermore, in the described exemplary embodiment, the proximal channel segment 121, the distal channel segment 122, and the transverse channel segment 123 all extend linearly on the circumferential surface of the diffuser body. An angle C is formed between the proximal channel segment 121 and the transverse channel segment 123. An angle D is formed between the transverse channel segment 123 and the distal channel segment 122. It should be noted that these angles can be measured, in particular, in an unfolded view or partial projection of the circumferential outer surface of the diffuser body 11. In the described exemplary embodiment, both the proximal channel segment 121 and the distal channel segment 122 extend only axially, that is, along the proximal-distal direction of the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body, thus the absolute values ​​of deflection angles A and B are the same. Furthermore, the absolute values ​​of included angles C and D are also the same. The above description can be made more generally if the proximal channel segment 121 and the distal channel segment 122 form the same lead angle in the circumferential direction on the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body 11.

[0044] It can be seen that the transverse channel segment 123 or its centerline correspondingly requires a minimum lead angle, i.e., an angle measured in the circumferential direction relative to the body 11 of the diffuser head, to satisfy that the proximal connection cross section 122 connecting the transverse channel segment 123 to the second, distal channel segment 122 is generally closer to the proximal end than the distal connection cross section connecting the transverse channel segment 123 to the first, proximal channel segment 121, and that the connection cross sections do not overlap in the proximal-distal direction of the body 11 of the diffuser head. The minimum lead angle correspondingly depends on the diameter of the body 11 of the diffuser head, the circumferential offset between the distal end of the proximal channel segment 121 and the proximal end of the distal channel segment 122, and the maximum width and depth of the channel 12 or the transverse channel segment 123. If the proximal and distal channel segments extend axially on the circumferential surface of the body 11 of the diffuser head, i.e., the lead angle is 90°, then the minimum deflection angle is correspondingly provided by the minimum required lead angle of the transverse channel segment 123 or its centerline. If the lead angles of the first, proximal channel section and the second, distal channel sections 121 and 122 are less than 90°, i.e. tilted relative to the proximal-distal axis of the diffuser body 11, the minimum deflection angle may be further reduced.

[0045] As previously described, in the exemplary embodiment, the proximal channel segment 121, the distal channel segment 122, and the transverse channel segment 123 all extend linearly on the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body. This means that the fluid flowing through the channel 12 will not be deflected at the respective channel segments, i.e., deflected between the boundary lines of each channel segment on the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body 11. Therefore, when the fluid flows from the proximal end to the distal end of the channel 12, all its flow deflection will occur at the transitions from the proximal channel segment 121 to the transverse channel segment 123 and from the transverse channel segment 123 to the distal channel segment 122. Therefore, it can be understood that in the exemplary embodiment, deflection angles A and B are the cumulative deflection angles of the fluid flowing through the channel 12, representing the rightward and leftward deflection angles, respectively. For example, in a given embodiment, fluid flows from the proximal end of channel 12 to the distal end, that is, from the proximal end 111 to the distal end 112 of diffuser head 1 in this exemplary embodiment, and may experience a cumulative rightward deflection of about angle A at the transition from the proximal channel segment 121 to the transverse channel segment 123, and a cumulative leftward deflection of about angle B at the transition from the transverse channel segment 123 to the distal channel segment 122.

[0046] Figure 3 A view of the proximal end face 111 of the body 11 of the diffuser head is shown. Figure 3The view shows cross-sections of the proximal channel section 121 and the distal channel section 122. The opposing sidewalls of the proximal channel section 121 extend from the base of the channel toward the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body 11 and enclose an angle E. The opposing sidewalls of the distal channel section 122 extend from the base of the channel toward the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body 11 and enclose an angle F. Although not explicitly shown, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the opposing sidewalls of the transverse channel section 123 also extend from the base of the channel toward the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body 11. Thus, all opposing sidewalls of the channel 12 extend from the base of the channel toward the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body 11 and include draft angles, which facilitates, for example, removal of the diffuser head 1 from the injection mold, thereby facilitating the overall manufacturing of the diffuser head 1, reducing waste, and contributing to lower manufacturing costs.

[0047] Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the assembly of diffuser head 1 with a supply line 2, such as a hose or pipe. Diffuser head 1 can be any of the aforementioned types. The proximal section 113 of the diffuser head body 11 is received within the supply line 2, while the distal section 114 of the diffuser head body 11 has a cross-sectional dimension that is too large to be installed within the supply line 2. The transition from the proximal section 113 to the distal section 114 provides a support shoulder for the axial end of the supply line 2. The dimensions and configuration of the proximal section 113 can be interference-fitted with the supply line 2. Therefore, the section of channel 12 disposed on the proximal section 113 interacts with the inner surface of the supply line 2 to form a closed flow channel. In other embodiments, if the diffuser head body 11 does not include the relatively thickened proximal section, the dimensions and configuration of the entire diffuser head body can be tightly fitted with the supply line 2 in an interference fit.

[0048] Figure 5 The use of a titration apparatus, including a titrant source 3, is briefly illustrated. A first end of a supply line 2 is connected to the titrant source 3. A diffusion head, one of the types disclosed herein, is fitted at a second end of the supply line 2. Figure 4 As shown. In this embodiment, the distal section 114 of the diffuser head or the body of the diffuser head is correspondingly the terminal of the supply line 2. The distal section 114 is at least partially immersed in the sample liquid in the beaker 4. In this way, the titrant from the titrant source 3 can enter the sample liquid below the sample liquid surface 41 through the supply line 2. The siphon-like flow channel formed by the channels 12 on the circumferential surface of the diffuser head body 11 has the advantages of the siphon device described above. At the same time, due to the small deflection angle, the pressure loss when the titrant is injected into the sample is also small, which in turn is conducive to the fine measurement of the titrant, improves the measurement accuracy, and significantly reduces the tendency to blockage.

[0049] While the subject matter of this disclosure has been explained through exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are by no means intended to limit the scope of protection of this invention. It is understood that this application covers embodiments not expressly shown or disclosed herein, and embodiments deviating from the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein will still be covered by this application.

[0050] List of reference numerals

[0051] 1. Diffuser Head

[0052] 2. Supply pipeline

[0053] 3. Titrant source

[0054] 4. Beaker containing sample solution

[0055] 11. The body of the diffuser head

[0056] 12 channels

[0057] 41 Sample liquid surface

[0058] 111 The proximal end face or proximal end of the diffuser head body

[0059] 112 The distal face or distal end of the diffuser head body

[0060] 113 The proximal segment of the diffuser head body

[0061] 114. Distal section of the diffuser head body

[0062] 121 First, the proximal channel section

[0063] 122 Second, the far-end channel section

[0064] 123 Transverse channel section

[0065] 124 Proximal boundary line of the transverse channel section

[0066] 125. Far boundary line of the transverse channel section.

[0067] 1241 The farthest endpoint of the near-end boundary line of the transverse channel segment

[0068] 1251 The nearest endpoint of the far boundary line of the transverse channel segment

[0069] Δh is the axial offset between the farthest endpoint of the proximal boundary line of the transverse channel segment and the nearest endpoint of the distal boundary line of the transverse channel segment.

[0070] A. Transition angle or deflection angle

[0071] B. Transition angle or deflection angle

[0072] C. Angle between the first proximal channel section and the transverse channel section

[0073] D. Angle between the second distal channel section and the transverse channel section

[0074] E Draft angle

[0075] F Draft angle

Claims

1. A diffuser head (1) for supplying a conduit (2), the diffuser head comprising a body (11) having a proximal end (111), a distal end (112), and a circumferential surface, wherein, The diffuser head body (11) has a channel (12) in its circumferential surface, the channel having a proximal end and a distal end. The channel (12) has a first channel segment (121) extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the channel, wherein the distal end of the first channel segment is close to the distal end of the body (11) of the diffuser head. The channel (12) also has a second channel segment (122) extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the channel, wherein the proximal end of the second channel segment (122) is away from the proximal end of the body (11) and close to the distal end of the first channel segment (121), thereby causing the first channel segment and the second channel segment to have axial overlap on the body (11) of the diffuser head, while the first channel segment and the second channel segment do not intersect. The channel also has a transverse channel segment (123) that connects the first channel segment (121) and the second channel segment (122) and extends between the first channel segment and the second channel segment, wherein the transverse channel segment (123) connects the first channel segment (121) at a first proximal-distal position of the body of the diffuser head, and the transverse channel segment connects the second channel segment at a second proximal-distal position of the body of the diffuser head, wherein the second proximal-distal position is close to the first proximal-distal position.

2. The diffuser head according to claim 1, characterized in that, The farthest endpoint (1241) of the near-end boundary line (124) of the transverse channel segment (123) is far from the nearest endpoint (1251) of the far-end boundary line (125) of the transverse channel segment (123).

3. The diffuser head according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The transverse channel segment (123) connects to the first channel segment (121) at the far end of the first channel segment, and / or the transverse channel segment (123) connects to the second channel segment (122) at the proximal end of the second channel segment.

4. The diffuser head according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, At least one of the first channel segment (121) and / or the second channel segment (122) and / or the transverse channel segment (123) is a DC segment.

5. The diffuser head according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The channel (12) is configured such that fluid flowing from the proximal end of the channel to the distal end of the channel deflects to the left by a cumulative left deflection angle (B) and to the right by a cumulative right deflection angle (A), wherein at least one of the cumulative left deflection angle and the cumulative right deflection angle is less than 180°.

6. The diffuser head according to claim 5, characterized in that, At least one of the cumulative left deflection angle (B) and the cumulative right deflection angle (A) is less than 150°.

7. The diffuser head according to any one of claims 1, 2, and 6, characterized in that, The transverse channel segment (123) is a straight channel segment, the first channel segment (121) is a straight channel segment, and the included angle (C) between the first channel segment and the transverse channel segment is greater than 0° and less than 90°.

8. The diffuser head according to claim 7, characterized in that, The included angle (C) between the first channel segment and the transverse channel segment is at least one of 30° or more and / or 60° or less.

9. The diffuser head according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6, and 8, characterized in that, The transverse channel segment (123) is a straight channel segment, the second channel segment (122) is a straight channel segment, and the included angle between the transverse channel segment and the second channel segment is greater than 0° and less than 90°.

10. The diffuser head according to claim 9, characterized in that, The angle between the transverse channel segment and the second channel segment is at least one of 30° or more and / or 60° or less.

11. The diffuser head according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6, 8, and 10, characterized in that, The first channel segment (121) and the second channel segment (122) have constant circumferential angular positions on the surface of the body (11) of the diffuser head along the extension scale between their respective distal and proximal ends.

12. The diffuser head according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6, 8, and 10, characterized in that, In the proximal-distal segment where the first channel segment (121) and the second channel segment (122) of the body of the diffuser head overlap axially, the first channel segment (121) and the second channel segment (122) are offset relative to each other at each proximal-distal position along the periphery of the body (11) of the diffuser head, wherein the circumferential angular distance between the first channel segment and the second channel segment is more than 45°.

13. The diffuser head according to claim 12, characterized in that, The circumferential angular distance between the first channel segment and the second channel segment is 50° or more.

14. The diffuser head according to claim 12, characterized in that, The circumferential angular distance between the first channel segment and the second channel segment is 60° or more.

15. The diffuser head according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, and 14, characterized in that, The first channel segment (121) extends from the proximal end of the body of the diffuser head and is open on the proximal end face of the body of the diffuser head.

16. The diffuser head according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, and 14, characterized in that, The second channel section (122) extends to the distal end of the body of the diffuser head and is open on the distal end face of the body of the diffuser head.

17. The diffuser head according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, and 14, characterized in that, At least the proximal segment (113) of the body (11) of the diffuser head is configured to be received within the supply line.

18. The diffuser head according to claim 17, characterized in that, The cross-sectional dimension of the distal segment (114) of the body (11) of the diffuser head is larger than the cross-sectional dimension of the proximal segment.

19. The diffuser head according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 14, and 18, characterized in that, The opposite sidewalls of the channel (12) extend from the base of the channel toward the circumferential surface of the body of the diffuser head.

20. A titration apparatus, the titration apparatus comprising a supply line (2), wherein, The first end of the supply line is connected to the titrant source (3), and the second end of the supply line is provided with a diffusion head (1) according to any one of claims 1-19, wherein at least a portion of the diffusion head is received within the supply line, and at least the proximal sections of the first channel section (121), the transverse channel section (123), and the second channel section (122) are located within the supply line and together with the inner wall of the supply line form a flow channel on the circumferential surface of the body of the diffusion head, the flow channel being open to the interior of the supply line at the second end of the supply line.

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