Bidirectional pycnometer and manufacturing process for a bidirectional pycnometer

Abstract

An arrangement (100) for measuring a volume of a solid or liquid sample (101), wherein the arrangement comprises: a first chamber (103) for receiving the sample; at least a second chamber (105) which can be connected to the first chamber (103); a first gas path (107) which contains a first valve (109), wherein the first gas path (107) is connected at one end (111) via the first valve (109) to the first chamber (103) and at the other end (113) to a gas inlet path (115); a second gas path (117) which contains a second valve (119), wherein the second gas path (117) is connected at one end (121) via the second valve (119) to the second chamber (105) and at the other end (124) to the gas inlet path (115); a pressure sensor (123); a third gas path (125) which includes a third valve (127), wherein the third gas path (125) is connected at one end (129) to the first chamber (103) and at the other end (139) is connected via the third valve (127) to the pressure sensor (123); and a fourth gas path (133) which contains a fourth valve (135), wherein the fourth path (133) is connected at one end (137) to the second chamber (105) and at the other end (139) is connected via the fourth valve (135) to the pressure sensor (123).

Description

Technical area

[0001] Embodiments of the invention generally relate to an arrangement and a method for manufacturing the arrangement for measuring a volume of a solid or liquid sample, wherein two different measurement modes are possible. Technological background

[0002] Pycnometry is used to determine the volume of a solid or liquid sample (for example, to determine its actual density), employing either a gas-phase substitution or a gas expansion method. In this process, a sample chamber containing the sample is filled with a gas, and the gas pressure is measured. The gas is then expanded into an expansion chamber, and the resulting pressure is measured. Using Boyle's Law, the sample volume can be determined based on the pressure measurements and the known volumes of the sample chamber and the expansion chamber.

[0003] Devices and arrangements according to the conventional state of the art can only be operated unidirectionally, which means that at the beginning the gas is filled into the sample chamber and expanded into the reference chamber or expansion chamber, or vice versa.

[0004] However, depending on the type of sample being measured, it may be advantageous to first fill the gas into the sample chamber or first fill the gas into the expansion chamber and then expand the gas into the other chamber. For example, if the actual density (or volume) of a foam is to be measured, it may be advantageous to first introduce the gas into the sample chamber and allow it to expand later into the reference or expansion chamber. On the other hand, with a fine powder, it may be more suitable to first fill the expansion or reference chamber and then expand the gas into the sample chamber.

[0005] A conventional device only provides one direction of volume or density measurement. One possible reason for this is that the pressure transmitter or pressure sensor must always be connected to the chamber into which the gas is first introduced, thus preventing a change in the direction of gas flow.

[0006] Document US 5,074,146 A discloses a gas comparison pycnometer for determining and verifying the accuracy of the volume of a solid. A single hood assembly fixes the volume in the pycnometer's sample chamber from run to run. A series of purges with a suitable gas removes unwanted moisture or vapor from the system. A gas is first introduced into the sample chamber, where the sample is located, and then expands into the expansion / reference chamber.

[0007] Document US 2017 / 0030817 A1 discloses an actual density measuring device comprising a sample chamber, an expansion chamber, and a pressure sensor. An inert gas source is connected to the sample chamber to first introduce the gas into the sample chamber and then expand it into the expansion chamber.

[0008] Document US 2017 / 0010196 A1 discloses an actual density measuring device that uses a gas-phase substitution method. A sample chamber is hermetically sealed by means of a non-rotating lid.

[0009] Document EP 0 720 011 A1 discloses a method for determining the density of a nuclear fuel pellet using gas displacement and isothermal gas expansion. In this method, gas is first introduced into a reference volume and then expanded into a distributor connected to a sample chamber.

[0010] Document CN 203981234 U discloses a volume measuring device using a gas pressure method. The volume of the substance to be measured can be determined by changing the gas pressure in closed containers. One container is filled with a compressed inert gas, and after a pressure measurement, the gas is expanded into another container in which the sample is placed.

[0011] It has been observed that prior art devices and methods do not provide accurate and reliable determinations of sample volume and / or density under all conditions and circumstances (i.e., for all types of samples). Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid sample, wherein the accuracy and / or reliability of the result is improved, and which is suitable for a multitude of different types of samples. This object is achieved by the subject matter according to the independent claims. Further embodiments are provided by the dependent claims. Summary

[0012] Although the set of claims does not specify multiple dependencies of one claim on several other claims, each of the dependent claims may nevertheless refer to several or all of the other preceding claims according to different embodiments of the present invention. Thus, features explained, provided, or described in the "Summary of the Invention" section may also be combined with any other feature referenced or described or provided in that section.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid or liquid sample is provided, wherein the arrangement or device comprises: a first (e.g., sample) chamber for receiving the sample; at least one second (e.g., reference or expansion) chamber which is connectable to the first (e.g., sample) chamber; a first gas (e.g., supply) path which includes a first valve, wherein the first gas path is connected at one end to the first chamber via the first valve and at the other end to a gas inlet path; a second gas (e.g., supply) path which includes a second valve, wherein the second gas path is connected at one end to the second chamber via the second valve and at the other end to the gas inlet path; a pressure sensor; a third gas (e.g.,a measurement path containing a third valve, wherein the third gas path is connected at one end to the first chamber and at the other end to the pressure sensor via the third valve; a fourth gas (e.g. measurement) path containing a fourth valve, wherein the fourth path is connected at one end to the second chamber and at the other end to the pressure sensor via the fourth valve.

[0014] The arrangement can be configured, in particular, as a pycnometer suitable for measuring the volume and / or the (actual) density of the solid sample. To determine the density of the solid sample, in addition to determining its volume, the arrangement can also be used to determine its mass (e.g., with an internal balance) or with the aid of an auxiliary device. If the density of the solid sample is known, the arrangement can alternatively be used to measure its volume; the mass of the solid sample can then be determined from these two parameters. Overview of the embodiments

[0015] In some embodiments, the arrangement can include two or more pressure sensors.

[0016] The arrangement can, for example, be operated in a temperature range between 5 °C and 50 °C. Therefore, the chambers and the gas paths can be temperature-controlled to a desired temperature within the aforementioned operating temperature range. In particular, all components of the arrangement that are in thermal contact with the sample gas can be temperature-controlled to the same operating temperature, for example, with an error range of ±1 °C or less.

[0017] The solid sample may be a foam, a powder, a compact sample, or similar. The volume of the solid or liquid sample may, for example, be in a range between 0.1 cm³ and 0.1 cm³. 3 up to 1000 cm 3 be.

[0018] The first chamber and at least one second chamber can provide an internal volume or space bounded by wall sections. The chambers can, for example, be essentially cylindrical or cuboid in shape. The chambers can be bounded, for example, by different wall sections of respective containers, or by a material of a metal assembly with which the chamber may be in thermal contact, or in which the chambers may be received or contained.

[0019] The first chamber can, for example, have a lid or a closure section that allows it to be opened and closed. The lid can be configured with a handle section, allowing a user to grasp the lid and engage the handle (for example, by rotating it) with engagement sections of the first chamber. Once the first chamber is open, the sample can be introduced. After the sample has been placed in the first chamber (also called the sample chamber), the first chamber can be closed using the lid, creating a gas-tight seal.

[0020] The relative operating pressure after filling, for example, the first chamber or at least one second chamber, can be in the range between -1 bar and 10 bar. The lid can have a sealing device to maintain the gas in the first chamber at the desired operating pressure when the first chamber is closed by means of the lid.

[0021] The at least one second chamber (also called the reference chamber) may not have a lid. The at least one second reference chamber may be connected to the first chamber if the third and fourth valves are in an open position.

[0022] When it is mentioned that a chamber is connectable or connected to another chamber, this can mean that the gas contained in the chamber is freely connected to the space or internal volume of the other chamber. For example, if the first chamber is connected to the second chamber, the gas in the first chamber and the gas in the second chamber can mix and distribute themselves between the first and second chambers in such a way that they reach the same pressure and completely fill the free volume of the first chamber and the internal volume of the second chamber. When it is mentioned that a chamber is connected to a specific valve, this can mean that the gas contained in the chamber and / or the corresponding valve is freely connected to the valve or the chamber.

[0023] Each of the gas paths can be formed by a gas conduit, which, for example, has an essentially circular cross-sectional shape, wherein the gas path is configured to essentially guide or carry the gas without contaminating the gas, without adsorbing components of the gas, and without altering the composition of the gas. The gas paths and the chambers can be suitable for being filled with or carrying any of the conventionally known sample gases, for example, inert gases, for example, a noble gas, or for example, nitrogen. In particular, helium can be used as a sample gas. All valves, i.e., the first, the second, the third, and the fourth valve, can be configured in essentially the same way, in particular as a solenoid valve, and further, in particular, as a two-way detent valve.

[0024] The pressure sensor can be configured, for example, to measure relative pressure within an operating range of -1 bar to 10 bar. The pressure sensor can also be temperature-controlled to maintain essentially the same temperature as the chamber and the valves. All gas paths, valves, and chambers can be gas-tight, even within the aforementioned pressure range.

[0025] The first gas path can also be called the first gas supply path, as it provides the means to supply the sample gas to the first chamber. The second gas path can also be called the second gas supply path, as it allows the sample gas to be filled into the second chamber. The third gas path can also be called the third gas measurement path, as it can be used during the measurement to expand the gas from the first chamber or to connect the pressure sensor to the first chamber to measure the pressure after the sample gas has been filled into the first chamber. The fourth gas path can also be called the fourth gas measurement path, as it can be used during the measurement to expand the gas already contained in the first chamber (or the second chamber) via the third and fourth valves into the second chamber (or the first chamber).In this situation, the fourth gas path connects the first chamber and the second chamber and also connects both internal volumes of the two chambers to the pressure transmitter or pressure sensor. According to embodiments of the invention, the third gas path and the fourth gas path can be used to connect the first chamber and the second chamber to each other and to the pressure sensor.

[0026] By providing the first, second, third, and fourth gas paths, each containing the corresponding first, second, third, and fourth valves, the arrangement enables the measurement of the sample volume in two different operating modes. In the first operating mode, the first (sample) chamber is filled with the sample gas, which then expands into the second (reference) chamber. In the second measurement mode, the second chamber is first filled with the sample gas, which then expands into the first chamber. In both measurement modes, the sample can be placed in the first chamber. By providing two different measurement modes, characterized by opposing flow directions of the expanding sample gas, a wide variety of sample types can be measured accurately and reliably.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement further comprises a controller which is configured to control a state of at least one of the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, the fourth valve (and in particular the fifth valve and the sixth valve) such that a measurement of the sample volume is selectively enabled according to a first measurement mode or a second measurement mode, wherein in the first measurement mode the first chamber in which the sample is received is filled with gas from the gas inlet path, and the gas is subsequently expanded into the second chamber, wherein in the second measurement mode the second chamber is filled with the gas from the gas inlet path, and the gas is subsequently expanded into the first chamber in which the sample is received.

[0028] The controller can communicate with the various valves via electrical, optical, and / or wireless control lines. The controller can also communicate with the pressure sensor, for example, to read pressure measurement signals.

[0029] Each valve can be configured to exist in two different states: an open state and a closed state. In the closed state, the valve can interrupt the gas flow between different sides of the valve. In the open state, the valve can allow the free flow of gas between different sides of the valve (for example, in one of the gas paths). The valve can be a simple solenoid valve that remains closed unless activated, particularly by a control signal or current. In other embodiments, a single current pulse, configured as a two-way detent valve, can be supplied to the valve to switch between the closed and open states.

[0030] The controller can be configured to control the state of the first, second, third, and fourth valves, and in particular, a fifth and sixth valve, which are explained below. Controlling the state of each valve enables a measurement procedure to determine the volume of the solid sample. For example, the controller can control individual drivers for the valves, which, depending on the control signals transmitted by the controller, can generate and transmit suitable driver signals to set or change the state of the respective valve.

[0031] The gas inlet path can, for example, be connected to a gas container which holds the sample gas. The gas container may or may not be in thermal contact with the respective chambers and the valves. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the gas inlet path, which contains a gas container (also referred to as a third chamber), can be in thermal contact with, and in particular be kept at, the same temperature as the first chamber, the second chamber, and the various valves.

[0032] Setting the first or second measurement mode may not require any physical modification or restructuring of any parts of the setup. The first or second measurement mode can be selectively set simply by appropriately switching the states of the various valves. This allows for the reliable measurement of a wide variety of sample types. For example, one group of sample types might be best measured using the first measurement mode, while a second group might be best measured using the second measurement mode. A user operating the setup can, for instance, simply enter the type of sample to be measured at an input interface. Based on the entered sample type, the setup can automatically switch to the appropriate measurement mode.to the first or second measurement mode, without any further input or intervention from the user. In other embodiments, the type of measurement mode, i.e., the first or second measurement mode, can be directly entered by a user.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in both the first and second measuring modes, the gas is vented via the gas outlet. This means that, regardless of whether the first or second measuring mode is selected, the gas is always vented to the same gas outlet, e.g., a single gas path. Depending on the measuring mode, a fifth or sixth valve, as described below, can be opened to vent the gas into the gas outlet. This eliminates the need for any physical reconfiguration of the gas paths, thus simplifying the operation of the arrangement.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when in the first measurement mode, the controller is configured to: open the first and third valves to allow the first chamber to be filled with gas from the gas inlet path; close the first valve and measure a first pressure relative to the first measurement mode using the pressure sensor (e.g., after equilibration has been reached) (particularly while the first, second, fourth, fifth, and sixth (and seventh and eighth) valves are closed); open the fourth valve (optionally the seventh valve) to allow the gas to expand into the at least one second chamber and measure a second pressure relative to the first measurement mode, the arrangement being configured to calculate the volume of the sample based on the first pressure and the second pressure relative to the first measurement mode.

[0035] The opening of the first and third valves can be performed simultaneously or sequentially. For example, the third valve can be opened (meaning it is set to the open position), and the first valve can be opened simultaneously or after the third valve has opened. The first and third valves can remain open until the pressure in the first chamber, the third gas path, and the first gas path (as measured by the pressure sensor) reaches a target pressure, which could be, for example, in a range between -1 bar and 10 bar. Once the target pressure is reached, the first valve can be closed (i.e., set to the closed position), and the first pressure (referring to the first measurement mode) can be measured using the pressure sensor.The pressure can be measured using the pressure sensor until the measured pressure does not change by a configurable threshold, thereby specifying a rate-of-change limit / threshold. This allows the system to wait until the gas temperature in the sample chamber and the third gas path essentially reaches the temperature of the wall section(s) that define the sample chamber and the material that defines the third gas path. Thus, the first pressure can be determined after equilibration with respect to the gas temperature is achieved. The first pressure can be measured while the first, second, fourth, fifth, and sixth (and optionally the seventh and eighth) valves are closed.

[0036] After measuring the first pressure (based on the first measurement mode), the fourth valve (and optionally a seventh valve, which is explained below) can be opened, allowing the gas to expand from the first chamber into at least one second chamber. The second pressure (based on the first measurement mode) can also be measured after equilibration (particularly with regard to gas temperature) has been achieved. This allows, for example, the pressure measured by the pressure sensors to be recorded and monitored until the measured pressure no longer changes significantly, meaning the change falls below a threshold after a predetermined time interval.

[0037] The arrangement (which includes, for example, a processor) can, in addition to the first pressure and the second pressure, also use the (previously known) volume of the first chamber and the second chamber, and can use further calibration data, as listed below for volume determination.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when in the second measurement mode, the controller is configured to: open the second valve and the fourth valve (optionally the seventh valve) to allow the filling of the at least one second chamber with the gas from the gas inlet path, close the second valve (e.g., the second chamber is filled until a target pressure is reached), and measure a first pressure relative to the second measurement mode using the pressure sensor (e.g.,(after equilibration is achieved) (especially while the first, second, third, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth valves are closed); opening the third valve to allow the gas to expand into the first chamber as well, and measuring a second pressure based on the second measurement mode, the arrangement being set up to calculate the volume of the sample based on the first pressure and the second pressure based on the second measurement mode.

[0039] For example, the fourth valve and the second valve can be opened simultaneously or sequentially. If a larger volume than the volume of the second chamber is to be filled with gas, the seventh valve can optionally be opened. The seventh valve can connect the second chamber to another second chamber. The second chamber, and optionally the other second chamber, can be filled with the measuring gas until a target pressure is reached in the second chamber (and optionally the other second chamber), as well as in the second and fourth gas paths. Once this target pressure is reached, the second valve can be closed. Then, particularly after reaching equilibrium, the first pressure (referring to the second measurement mode) can be measured using the pressure sensor. During the measurement of the first pressure, the first, second, third, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth valves can be closed.

[0040] After the first pressure (referenced to the second measurement mode) has been measured, the third valve can be opened, connecting the second chamber to the first and allowing the gas to expand through the second chamber, the first chamber, and the third gas path. Once equilibrium has been reached (for example, determined by monitoring the measured pressure and confirming that the measured pressure does not change significantly over time), the second pressure (referenced to the second measurement mode) can be measured. In the second measurement mode, the system (processor) calculates the sample volume based on the first and second pressures (both referenced to the second measurement mode) and, optionally, also based on known internal volumes of the first chamber, the second chamber, the fourth gas path, and the third gas path.

[0041] Furthermore, the calculation of the sample volume during any of the measurement modes can also be based on the volume of sections of the first gas path, in particular the volume of the first gas path between the first valve and the first chamber. The calculation can also be based on a section of the second gas path, namely the section between the second valve and the second chamber. Thus, according to embodiments of the present invention, at least the volume of sections of the gas paths can be taken into account for calculating the sample volume. These specific sections of the gas paths may be known beforehand and may be stored in an electronic memory, for example, as calibration data.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement further comprises a fifth gas (e.g., vent) path which includes a fifth valve, wherein the fifth gas path is connected at one end to the first chamber via the fifth valve and at the other end to a gas outlet (e.g., vent); a sixth gas (e.g., vent) path which includes a sixth valve, wherein the sixth gas path is connected at one end to the second chamber via the sixth valve and at the other end to the gas outlet.

[0043] The fifth gas path can also be referred to as the fifth gas vent path, as it can be used to vent the first chamber and / or the second chamber and the connecting gas paths after a measurement has been performed according to the first measurement mode. Alternatively, the fifth gas path can be used to vent the chambers and gas paths after a measurement has been performed according to the second measurement mode. Therefore, only one venting device is required and it can be positioned anywhere in the apparatus.

[0044] The sixth gas path, which contains the sixth valve, can be used to vent the system after a measurement has been performed using the first measurement mode. Alternatively, the sixth valve can also be vented after a measurement has been performed according to the second measurement mode. Embodiments of the present invention include only one of these valves, i.e., the fifth valve and the fifth gas path, or the sixth valve and the sixth gas path. In this case, either the fifth valve or the sixth valve can be used (and present) to vent the system after any of the operating measurement modes has been performed. In other embodiments, both the fifth valve and the sixth valve, as well as both the fifth and sixth gas paths, may be present.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the present invention, after measuring the second pressure relative to the first measuring mode, the arrangement further comprises: opening the fifth valve to allow the gas from the first and second chambers to be vented to the gas outlet. According to one embodiment of the present invention, after measuring the second pressure relative to the second operating mode, the arrangement further comprises: opening the sixth valve to allow the gas from the first and second chambers to be vented to the gas outlet. This allows the system to be vented to a gas outlet without physically altering any gas path.

[0046] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement further comprises a processor which is configured to calculate the volume of the sample based on at least the pressure measurements and the volume of the first chamber and the second chamber, e.g. using the Boyle-Mariotte law.

[0047] The processor can, for example, contain or execute a computer program that has been loaded into a memory to which the processor is connected. The calculation can use Boyle-Mariotte's Law, as known from thermodynamics. Boyle-Mariotte's Law can assume the validity of the ideal gas law. In other embodiments, Boyle-Mariotte's Law may not assume an ideal gas, but a modified equation can be used that takes into account deviations of a real gas from the behavior of an ideal gas. The processor can be communicatively connected to the controller, for example, to supply the controller with control signals for appropriately controlling the valves according to a measurement program.

[0048] The processor can also be communicatively connected to the pressure sensor to receive pressure measurement signals. Furthermore, the processor can be configured to, or communicatively connected to, one or more temperature sensors configured to measure the temperature of the various chambers and / or gas paths. The processor can receive a temperature measurement from a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of a metal assembly containing (or in thermal contact with) all chambers and all gas paths. It can then be assumed that all sample chambers and gas paths have essentially the same temperature as determined by the temperature sensor, or the respective temperatures of the various elements can be derived from the temperature as measured by the temperature sensor, for example, using the temperature calibration data.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth valves (in particular the fifth and sixth valves) comprises a unidirectional valve having a leak-tight inlet side. A unidirectional valve may have only one side, namely the inlet side (also referred to as the supply side), which is leak-tight. The unidirectional valve may withstand gas escape only from the inlet side, but not from the outlet side of the respective valve. The unidirectional valve can have a significantly smaller dimension, size, and weight compared to a bidirectional valve, which has two leak-tight sides. This reduces the complexity, size, and weight of the arrangement.Furthermore, the fifth and sixth valves, and potentially the eighth and seventh valves, may also contain or be a unidirectional valve that has an inlet side which is leak-proof.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the following applies: an inlet side of the first valve faces the first chamber / is connected to the first chamber; an inlet side of the second valve faces the second chamber / is connected to the second chamber; an inlet side of the third valve faces the pressure sensor / is connected to the pressure sensor; an inlet side of the fourth valve faces the pressure sensor / is connected to the pressure sensor; an inlet side of the fourth valve is connected to the first chamber if the third valve is in an open state; the inlet side of the third valve is connected to the second chamber if the fourth valve is in an open state.

[0051] If the inlet side of the first valve faces or is connected to the first chamber, the first valve, when closed, effectively prevents gas from escaping the first chamber via the first valve. If the second valve faces or is connected to the second chamber, the second valve, when closed, effectively prevents gas from escaping the second chamber via the second valve. If the third valve faces or is connected to the pressure sensor, it can prevent gas from escaping via the third valve, for example, in the second measurement mode when the first pressure (relative to the second measurement mode) is to be measured after the second chamber has been filled.If the fourth valve faces or is connected to the pressure sensor, it can effectively prevent gas from escaping through the fourth valve in the first measurement mode, after the first chamber has been filled with gas and the first pressure (relative to the first measurement mode) is to be measured. This allows the first and second measurement modes to be executed.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement further comprises an eighth valve at one end, which is connected to the first valve, the second valve, and the gas inlet path, and at another end is connected to another gas outlet. In particular, the eighth valve can be connected at one end (with its inlet side) to the outlet sides of the first valve and the second valve and to the gas inlet path.

[0053] To prevent the second and / or first valve from leaking through their seats after pressure metering or filling their respective chambers, the eighth valve can be used to vent its outlet side to the atmosphere. Thus, the eighth valve can vent to the atmosphere on its outlet side. The eighth valve can be a unidirectional valve. In this case, its inlet side can be connected to the outlet sides of the first and second valves, and it can also be connected to the gas inlet path.

[0054] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the following applies: the gas inlet path includes a gas inlet valve; and at least one of the first valve, the second valve, the third valve, the fourth valve (in particular the fifth valve and the sixth valve) includes or is a solenoid valve, in particular a two-way detent valve.

[0055] The gas inlet valve can be opened to fill the first or second chamber (and / or a third chamber, as described below) with gas (from a gas cylinder). A two-way detent valve can be a valve that changes its state upon receiving an electrical pulse. This simplifies the control of the valve states. In particular, no continuous voltage or current may be required to be supplied to the respective valve to assume the open state. This further simplifies the control of the arrangement.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement further comprises an electronic memory which contains volume calibration data for the first chamber and the second chamber for calculating the sample volume.

[0057] The electronic memory can contain volume calibration data and temperature calibration data. The volume calibration data can include, for example, the volumes of all chambers and the volumes or volume segments of all (or some) relevant gas paths. Furthermore, using the temperature calibration data, the effective temperature of each chamber or gas path can be derived, for example, from one or more temperature measurements taken at locations near or far from the respective chamber or gas path. Therefore, it is possible to perform a volume measurement according to either the first or the second measurement mode.

[0058] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement further comprises a metal assembly which is in thermal contact with / receives / contains the first chamber, the second chamber, and the at least one gas path; and a temperature control device for temperature control of the metal assembly to a desired temperature, wherein in particular at least one section of at least one gas path is implemented as a bore in the metal assembly.

[0059] The metal assembly can comprise a single metal block, for example, an aluminum block, or it can comprise several metal assembly sections connected to one another, for example, by bolts. The first chamber and / or the second chamber (and potentially a third chamber) can be formed as a recess in the metal assembly or metal structure, which can be created, for example, by milling or cutting. In this case, the metal assembly can accommodate the first chamber, the second chamber, and at least one gas path, and optionally the third chamber. Thus, the boundary walls of the respective chambers can be formed by the material of the metal assembly itself. In other embodiments, the metal assembly can have recesses into which separate containers are inserted, providing the different chambers.

[0060] The temperature control device may include an electric heater and cooler, in particular at least one Peltier element, which enables heating and / or cooling of the metal assembly. The metal assembly may provide significant heat capacity and may be a good thermal conductor. Essentially, the temperature may be the same or at least very similar across the entire extent of the metal assembly. Thus, the temperature in the various chambers and gas paths may also be essentially the same or at least very similar. Since the pressure and / or volume of a gas are dedicated or sensitive to temperature, providing a uniform temperature in all involved sections of the measurement may improve the reliability and / or accuracy of the volume measurements. Providing a bore in the metal assembly can be easily achieved.Separate elements for the gas path may no longer be required or necessary.

[0061] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement has a third chamber (e.g. an acclimatization chamber) which is connected to a gas supply source and provides the gas inlet path to the first gas path and the second gas path, wherein the third chamber is in thermal contact with the metal assembly and / or is incorporated in the metal assembly.

[0062] The third chamber can also be described as an acclimatization chamber, which is provided to equilibrate the gas temperature before the gas is introduced into the first or second chamber to the temperature of the first and second chambers, or more generally to the temperature of the metal assembly. If the gas contained in the third chamber is already substantially at the temperature of the metal assembly, and in particular the temperature of the first chamber and / or the second chamber, the equilibration time for reaching the gas temperature after filling the first and / or second chamber can be reduced, thereby also shortening the overall volumetric measurement time. An outlet of the third chamber can therefore provide the gas inlet path.The third chamber can also be incorporated into the metal assembly, for example it can be implemented as a recess in the metal assembly, which is closed, for example, by means of a closure plate.

[0063] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the third chamber encloses a metallic material providing a large surface area, wherein the metallic material is in thermal contact with the metal assembly, and wherein the metallic material comprises at least one of: a fibrous network, a sintered structure, a loose material, a fabric, a nonwoven, a woven, or a mat. The metallic material may further comprise metallic spheres, metallic powder, or any other material that improves the thermal conductivity between the gas and the chamber. When the metallic material is enclosed in the third chamber and in thermal contact with the metal assembly, the gas in the third chamber surrounding the metallic material can be rapidly brought to the temperature of the metal assembly.Since the temperature of the metal assembly essentially corresponds to or is equal to the temperature of the first and second chambers, the equilibration time for the gas to reach the temperature of the first or second chamber after filling the respective chamber can also be shortened. The metallic material can be configured in a variety of different ways, provided that the surface area of ​​the metallic material is much larger than it would be if the metallic material were in a continuous or compact state.

[0064] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the metal assembly comprises a first metal section which accommodates the first chamber, a second metal section which accommodates the second chamber, and a third metal section which accommodates the third chamber, wherein the first metal section is mounted on a flat side surface to a flat side surface of the second metal section and another flat side surface of the second metal section is mounted on a flat side surface of the third metal section.

[0065] When the metal assembly consists of a first metal section, a second metal section, and optionally a third metal section, a simple and easily manufacturable design is provided. The interfaces between the sections, including one or more flow paths between adjacent metal sections of the assembly, can be sealed, for example, with an O-ring, to prevent leakage at the assembly interfaces. This allows for a compact design.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one valve is surface-mounted on an outer surface of the metal assembly. The valve can, for example, be mounted on top of the outlets of two sections of the gas paths. Surface mounting of the valves, or at least one of the valves, can simplify the manufacturing process.

[0067] It should be clear that features which are disclosed, described, explained or provided individually or in any combination for an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid sample may also be applied individually or in any combination to a method for manufacturing an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid sample according to embodiments of the present invention and vice versa.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for producing an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid or liquid sample is provided, wherein the method comprises: Providing a first gas path containing a first valve, wherein the gas path is connected at one end via the first valve to a first chamber for receiving the sample and at the other end to a gas inlet path; providing a second gas path containing a second valve, wherein the second gas path is connected at one end via the second valve to at least a second chamber, which is connectable to the sample chamber, and at the other end to the gas inlet path; providing a third gas path containing a third valve, wherein the third gas path is connected at one end to the first chamber and at the other end via the third valve to a pressure sensor;and providing a fourth gas path which includes a fourth valve, wherein the fourth path is connected at one end to the second chamber and at the other end is connected via the fourth valve to the pressure sensor. Short description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 shows, as a fluid diagram, an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid sample according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. Figure 2 shows a three-dimensional exploded view of the arrangement, which is located in Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed description of the illustrated embodiments

[0069] The aspects defined above and further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the examples of embodiments described below and will be explained with reference to the embodiments shown. The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the examples shown, to which, however, the invention is not limited.

[0070] Embodiments of the present invention provide a pycnometer that can be operated bidirectionally. The arrangement of the valves, chambers, and other components facilitates operation in both directions, depending, for example, on the sample type and industry standards. An advantage of this arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid sample may be that it can be switched without exchanging or changing any components to optimize the operating sequence for a measurement.

[0071] The arrangement 100 for measuring the volume of a solid sample 101 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a first chamber 103 for receiving the sample 101. Furthermore, the arrangement 100 comprises at least one second chamber 105, which is connectable to the sample chamber 103. The arrangement 100 also comprises a gas supply path 107, which includes a first valve 109, wherein the first gas path 107 is connected at one end 111 to the first chamber 103 via the first valve 109 and at the other end 113 to a gas inlet path 115. The arrangement further comprises a second gas supply path 117, which includes a second valve 119, wherein the second gas path 117 is connected at one end 121 via the second valve 119 to the second chamber 105 and at another end 124 to the gas inlet path 115.

[0072] The arrangement 100 further comprises a pressure sensor 123 and a third gas sensing path 125, which includes a third valve 127, wherein the third gas path 125 is connected at one end 129 to the first chamber 103 and at the other end 139 is connected via the third valve 127 to the pressure sensor 123. The arrangement 100 further comprises a fourth gas sensing path 133, which includes a fourth valve 135, wherein the fourth gas path 133 is connected at one end 137 to the second chamber 105 and at the other end 139 is connected via the fourth valve 135 to the pressure sensor 123.

[0073] The arrangement 100 further comprises a controller 150, which is configured to control the state of the first valve 109, the second valve 119, the third valve 127, the fourth valve 135, and in particular also the state of a fifth valve 151, a sixth valve 153, a seventh valve 155 and an eighth valve 157, such that a measurement of the sample volume is selectively enabled according to a first measurement mode or a second measurement mode. Therefore, the controller receives pressure measurement signals 166 from the pressure sensor 123.

[0074] In the first measurement mode, the first chamber 103, in which the sample 101 is located, is filled with gas from the gas inlet path 115, and the gas is subsequently expanded into the second chamber 105. In the second measurement mode, the second chamber 105 is filled with gas from the gas inlet path 115, and the gas is subsequently expanded into the first chamber 103, in which the sample 101 is located. In both the first and second measurement modes, the gas is vented via a gas outlet 159.

[0075] The controller 150 provides valve control signals 161 to the respective valves for controlling the valves. When in the first measurement mode, the controller is configured to use the control signals 161 to cause the first valve 109 and the third valve 127 to open, thus allowing the first chamber 103 to be filled with gas from the gas inlet path 115, the first valve 109 to close, and the first pressure (referenced to the first measurement mode) to be measured using the pressure sensor 123. Furthermore, the controller causes the fourth valve 135 and, optionally, the seventh valve 155 to open, thus allowing the gas to expand into at least one second chamber 105 and, in particular, optionally also into another second chamber 106 via the seventh valve 155.Then a second pressure (relative to the first measurement mode) can be measured, and a processor 163, which is contained in the controller 150, calculates the volume of the sample 101 based on the first pressure and the second pressure.

[0076] When in the second measurement mode, the controller 150 is configured to open the second valve 119 and the fourth valve 135 to allow the second chamber 105 to be filled with gas from the gas inlet path (and optionally also the other second chamber 106 by further opening the seventh valve 155). A first pressure (referenced to the second measurement mode) can then be measured using the pressure sensor 123. Furthermore, the controller 150 causes the third valve 127 to open, allowing the gas to expand into the first chamber 103 and enabling the measurement of a second pressure (referenced to the second measurement mode). The processor 163 is then configured to calculate the volume of the sample 101 based on the first pressure and the second pressure (both referenced to the second measurement mode).

[0077] For venting purposes, the arrangement 100 has a fifth gas venting path 165, which includes the fifth valve 151, wherein the fifth gas venting path 165 is connected at one end 167 via the fifth valve 151 to the first chamber 103 and at the other end 169 to the gas outlet 159. The arrangement further has a sixth gas venting path 171, which includes the sixth valve 153, wherein the sixth gas venting path 171 is connected at one end 173 to the second chamber 105 and at the other end 175 to the gas outlet 159.

[0078] In the embodiment shown, the valves are implemented or configured as unidirectional two-way detent valves, which have an inlet side and an outlet side, or a supply side and an outlet side, wherein the supply or inlet side is represented as an open circuit, and the outlet side is represented as a closed or filled circuit. Fig. As can be seen from Figure 1, the inlet side of the first valve 109 faces the first chamber 103. Furthermore, the inlet side of the second valve 119 faces the second chamber 105. Furthermore, the inlet side of the third valve 127 faces the pressure sensor 123. Furthermore, the inlet side of the fourth valve 135 also faces the pressure sensor 123. Furthermore, the inlet side of the fourth valve 135 is connected to the first chamber 103 if the third valve 127 is in an open state. Furthermore, the inlet side of the third valve 127 is connected to the second chamber 105 if the fourth valve 135 is in an open state.

[0079] The arrangement 100 further comprises an eighth valve 157, which is connected at one end to the first valve 109, the second valve 119, and the gas inlet path 115, and at another end to another gas outlet 177. The arrangement 100, in particular the controller 150, includes an electronic memory 183 which contains volume calibration data and / or temperature calibration data.

[0080] The gas inlet path 115 includes a gas supply valve 179, which is connected to a gas container 181. The gas inlet path 115 may or may not include an acclimatization chamber 185. Therefore, the acclimatization chamber 185 is not present in the embodiments shown.

[0081] The order 100, which is in Fig. Figure 1 shows, however, a third chamber 185 for acclimatization purposes, which is connected to the gas supply source 181, 179, and provides the gas inlet path 115 into the first gas path 107 and the second gas path 117, wherein the third chamber 185 is in thermal contact with or contained in a metal assembly 160. The metal assembly 160 is also in thermal contact with or contains the first chamber 103, the second chamber 105, and the gas paths 107, 117, 133, 125, 165, 171, and all the valves 109, 151, 153, 155, 135, 127, 119, 157. A temperature control device 162, which, for example, includes a Peltier element, is also provided and in thermal contact with the metal assembly 160 for temperature control of the metal assembly 160 to a desired temperature. The temperature control device 162 is controlled by the controller 150 by means of control signals 164.

[0082] The third chamber 185 (if present) can have a volume that is, for example, between 0.1 and 10 times the volume of the second chamber 105 or the first chamber 103. Thus, the third chamber 185 is in Fig. Figure 1 is not to scale. The third chamber 185 can be filled with a mesh filter or metal mesh (not shown), for example, a knitted wire mesh filter. It should be noted that the third chamber 185 is an optional feature of the arrangement 100 and may be omitted in other embodiments of the present invention.

[0083] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the sample chamber 103 is closed by means of a lid 104. To load the sample 101 into the first chamber 103, the lid 104 can be removed by a user.

[0084] Fig. Figure 2 shows a perspective exploded view of an arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid sample according to an embodiment of the present invention. Elements that are similar in structure and / or function are shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Reference numerals are provided which differ only in the first position. A description of an element that is not described in detail in a particular embodiment can be obtained from the description of that respective element in the context of another embodiment or figure.

[0085] The arrangement 200 comprises a metal assembly 202, which includes a first metal section 210 containing a non-visible first chamber, a second metal section 206 containing a non-visible second chamber, and a third metal section 208 containing the non-visible third chamber. In the assembly 200, the first metal section 210 (in the combined arrangement 200) is mounted at a flat side face to a flat side face of the second metal section 206, or another flat side face of the second metal section 206 is mounted at a flat side face of the third metal section 208. This places the first, second, and third metal sections in a row.

[0086] The lid 204 for closing the first chamber, which is contained in the first metal section 210, is also in Fig. 1 shown, comprising a handle section 212 which makes it possible to turn or rotate the cover 204 which has a hook 216 for engaging or disengaging with engagement sections 214 which are connected to the first metal section 210.

[0087] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, some or all of the gas paths are realized through boreholes in the metal sections 210, 206, and 208. For example, the first gas path 207, the second gas path 217, and the sixth gas path 271 are partially shown as boreholes. Furthermore, Fig. It can be seen from Figure 2 that the valves are mounted on an outer surface of the metal assembly 202. In particular, for example, the second valve 219 (or another valve) is surface-mounted on an outer surface of the third metal section 208. The third metal section 208 may be covered with a plate 222. The first valve 209, the third valve 227, the fourth valve 235, and / or the fifth valve 251 (or others) may be mounted on an outer surface of the second metal section. As further shown Fig. Sealing rings 218, which can be removed from section 2, provide gas-tight connections between the various components when they are assembled. The three metal sections 210, 206, 208 can, for example, be mounted together using bolts 210. Furthermore, the pressure sensor or pressure transmitter 223 is shown and is also surface-mounted on the metal assembly.

[0088] Embodiments of the present invention may or may not include a third metal section 208 which contains the third chamber.

[0089] If a normal solid is to be measured, the second mode can be set, whereby the second chamber 105 (or optionally the other second chamber 106) is first filled with gas. After measuring the first pressure (referring to the second measurement mode), the gas can then be expanded into the first chamber, i.e., the sample chamber.

[0090] If a foam or similar material is to be measured, the first measurement mode can be selected. This allows the first chamber to be pressurized, i.e., filled with gas, thereby reversing the function of each chamber. The pressure transmitter can remain on the first chamber during this process; however, transferring the sample from the first to the second chamber requires unobstructed access to both chambers.

[0091] The following describes some properties of the device or arrangement for measuring the volume of a solid sample.

[0092] The arrangement may only have open access to one chamber, i.e., the first chamber (or sample chamber).

[0093] The arrangement can direct the gas in any direction (i.e., not fixed) without reconfiguring the external connection (i.e., the gas inlet can always be the gas inlet and the vent can always be the vent).

[0094] The arrangement can configure the internal gas paths itself to be optimal for powders, non-powders, and foams.

[0095] The arrangement can contain more than one reference volume, all of which can be used in any direction.

[0096] The setup can have multiple volume calibration values, which are automatically retrieved based on the direction and the sample chamber volume.

[0097] To determine the sample volume, ambient pressure can also be used. For example, ambient pressure can be measured by connecting the gas outlet 159 to the pressure sensor 123, 223 through the operation of the valves, with the gas outlet 159 at atmospheric pressure.

[0098] The ambient pressure can be measured, for example, by opening all valves (except, for example, the first valve 109 and / or the second valve 119 and / or the gas supply valve 179) and measuring the pressure using the pressure sensor 123, 223. The ideal gas law can be used to evaluate the experiment and derive the sample volume. Since the number of gas molecules in the system is constant before and after expansion, Boyle's law can be used to calculate the unknown sample volume Vs: the unknown sample volume can be calculated (e.g., for the first measurement mode) as Vs = Vc-(Va / (P1 / P2-1)), where P1 is the first pressure (e.g., based on the first measurement mode), P2 is the second pressure (e.g., based on the first measurement mode), Vc is the volume of the first chamber, and Va is the volume of the second chamber.

[0099] The first measurement mode may be better suited for analyzing foam, for example. However, when measuring fine powders in the first mode, there is a risk of contamination of the instrument. In contrast, using the second measurement mode for fine powders may minimize this risk.

[0100] Embodiments of the present invention provide a device or arrangement which supports both directions of gas pycnometry measurements (sample volume first or reference volume first), and the user can decide which direction to use for a single analysis.

[0101] The sequence used in the first measurement mode can be as follows: Equalizing the pressure between the first and second chambers by opening the third valve 127 and the fourth valve 135. Closing the third valve 127 and the fourth valve 135. Opening the first valve 109 and the third valve 127 until a target pressure is reached. Closing the first valve 109 and recording a stable pressure value. Opening the fourth valve 135 and, if necessary, the seventh valve 155, and recording a stable pressure value. Calculating the unknown sample volume and venting the system by opening the sixth valve 153.

[0102] The following sequence can be used for measurement according to the second measurement mode: Equalize the pressure between the first and second chambers by opening the third valve 127 and the fourth valve 135. Open the second valve 119 and the fourth valve 135 and, if necessary, the seventh valve 155, until a target pressure is reached. Close the second valve 119 and record a stable pressure value. Open the third valve 127 and record a stable pressure value. Calculate the unknown sample volume and vent the system by opening the fifth valve 151.

[0103] One advantage compared to a conventional pycnometer may be that the user can select the direction of the measurement procedure that is best suited to the current sample.

[0104] One feature of embodiments is that the fluid diagram is designed in such a way that unidirectional valves can also be used. Unidirectional valves are leak-tight in only one direction. Therefore, their inlet side may need to face the relevant chamber volume. To prevent the second valve 119 and the first valve 109 from leaking via their seats after the pressure has been metered, the eighth valve 157 can be used to vent the outlet side to the atmosphere. According to other embodiments, the system can also be designed or implemented using bidirectional valves. In some embodiments, the eighth valve 157 may not be required.

[0105] It should be noted that the term "featuring" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the article "a" or "an" does not exclude plurals. Elements described in connection with different embodiments can also be combined.

[0106] The implementation of the invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments shown in the figures and described above. Instead, a multitude of variants are possible that utilize the solutions shown and the principle according to the invention, even in the case of fundamentally different embodiments.

Claims

[1] An arrangement (100) for measuring a volume of a solid or liquid sample (101), the arrangement comprising: a first chamber (103) for receiving the sample; at least one second chamber (105) which is connectable to the first chamber (103); a first gas path (107) containing a first valve (109), the first gas path (107) being connected at one end (111) via the first valve (109) to the first chamber (103) and being connected at the other end (113) to a gas inlet path (115); a second gas path (117) containing a second valve (119), the second gas path (117) being connected at one end (121) via the second valve (119) to the second chamber (105) and at the other end (124) being connected to the gas inlet path (115); a pressure sensor (123); a third gas path (125) containing a third valve (127), the third gas path (125) being connected at one end (129) to the first chamber (103) and at the other end (139) to the pressure sensor (123) via the third valve (127); and a fourth gas path (133) containing a fourth valve (135), the fourth path (133) being connected at one end (137) to the second chamber (105) and at the other end (139) being connected via the fourth valve (135) to the pressure sensor (123). [2] The arrangement according to claim 1, further comprising: a controller (150) configured to control a state of at least one of the first valve (109), the second valve (119), the third valve (127), the fourth valve (135) such that a measurement of the sample volume is enabled selectively according to a first measurement mode or a second measurement mode, wherein in the first measuring mode, the first chamber (103) in which the sample (101) is accommodated is filled with gas from the gas inlet path (115), and the gas is later expanded into the second chamber (105), wherein in the second measurement mode the second chamber (105) is filled with gas from the gas inlet path (115), and the gas is later expanded into the first chamber (103) in which the sample (101) is accommodated. [3] The arrangement according to claim 2, wherein in the first and second measuring modes the gas is vented via a gas vent (159). [4] The arrangement according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the controller (150), when in the first measurement mode, is arranged to cause: Opening the first valve (109) and the third valve (127) to allow the first chamber (103) to be filled with gas from the gas inlet path (115), closing the first valve (109), and measuring a first pressure related to the first measurement mode using the pressure sensor (123); Opening the fourth valve (135) to allow the gas to expand into the at least one second chamber (105) and measuring a second pressure relative to the first measuring mode, wherein the arrangement is arranged to calculate the volume of the sample (101) based on the first pressure and the second pressure related to the first measurement mode. [5] The arrangement according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the controller (150), when in the second measurement mode, is arranged to cause: Opening the second valve (119) and the fourth valve (135) to allow the filling of the at least one second chamber (105) with gas from the gas inlet path (115), closing the second valve (119), and measuring a first pressure related to the second measurement mode using the pressure sensor (123); Opening the third valve (127) to allow the gas to expand into the first chamber (103) and measuring a second pressure related to the second measuring mode, wherein the arrangement is arranged to calculate the volume of the sample (101) based on the first pressure and the second pressure related to the second measurement mode. [6] The arrangement according to claim 4 or claim 5, further comprising at least one of the following: a fifth gas path (165) containing a fifth valve (151), the fifth gas path (165) being connected at one end (167) via the fifth valve (151) to the first chamber (103) and being connected at the other end (169) to a gas outlet (159); a sixth gas path (171) containing a sixth valve (153), the sixth gas path (171) being connected at one end (173) via the sixth valve (153) to the second chamber (105) and at the other end (175) to the gas outlet (159). [7] The arrangement according to claim 6 when dependent on claim 4, further comprising, after measuring the second pressure relative to the first measuring mode: Opening the fifth valve (151) to allow the gas to be vented from the first chamber (103) and the second chamber (105) to the gas outlet (159). [8] The arrangement according to claim 6 when dependent on claim 5, further comprising, after measuring the second pressure related to the second measuring mode: Opening the sixth valve (153) to allow the gas to be vented from the first chamber (103) and the second chamber (105) to the gas outlet (159). [9] The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: a processor (163) configured to calculate the volume of the sample (101) based on at least the pressure measurements and the volumes of the first chamber (103) and the second chamber (105). [10] The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one of the first valve (109), the second valve (119), the third valve (127), the fourth valve (135) includes a unidirectional valve having an inlet side which is leak-tight. [11] The arrangement according to claim 10, wherein at least one of the following applies: an inlet side of the first valve (109) faces the first chamber (103) and / or is connected to the first chamber (103); an inlet side of the second valve (119) faces the second chamber (105) and / or is connected to the second chamber (105); an input side of the third valve (127) faces the pressure sensor (123) and / or is connected to the pressure sensor (123); an input side of the fourth valve (135) faces the pressure sensor (123) and / or is connected to the pressure sensor (123); the input side of the fourth valve (135) is connected to the first chamber (103) if the third valve (127) is in an open state; the input side of the third valve (127) is connected to the second chamber (105) if the fourth valve (135) is in an open state. [12] The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising: an eighth valve (157) connected at one end to the first valve (109), the second valve (119), and the gas inlet path (115), and connected at another end to another gas outlet (177). [13] The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein at least one of the following applies: the gas inlet path (115) includes a gas supply valve (179); and at least one of the first valve (109), the second valve (119), the third valve (127), the fourth valve (135) contains or is a solenoid valve, in particular a two-way locking valve. [14] The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising: an electronic memory (183) containing volume calibration data for the first chamber (103) and the second chamber (105) for calculating the sample volume. [15] The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising: a metal assembly (160) which is in thermal contact with and / or receives and / or contains the first chamber (103), the second chamber (105), and at least one gas path (107, 117, 133, 125, 165, 171); and a tempering device (162) for tempering the metal assembly (160) to a desired temperature, wherein at least a portion of at least one gas path (107, 117, 133, 125, 165, 171) is implemented as a bore in the metal assembly (160). [16] The arrangement according to claim 15, further comprising: a third chamber (185) connected to a gas supply source (181, 179) and providing the gas entry path (115) into the first gas path (107) and the second gas path (117), wherein the third chamber (185) is in thermal contact with and / or received in the metal assembly (160). [17] The assembly of claim 16, wherein the third chamber (185) comprises a metallic material providing a large surface area, the metallic material being in thermal contact with the metal assembly (160), the metallic material comprising at least one of: a fibrous mesh, a sintered structure, a loose material, a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric, a woven fabric, and a mat. [18] The assembly of claim 16 or 17, wherein the metal assembly (160) comprises: a first metal portion (210) receiving the first chamber (103), a second metal portion (206) receiving the second chamber (105), and a third metal portion (208) receiving the third chamber (185), wherein the first metal portion (210) is mounted on a flat side surface to a flat side surface of the second metal portion (206), and another flat side surface of the second metal portion (206) is mounted on a flat side surface of the third metal portion (208). [19] The assembly of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein at least one valve is surface mounted on an outer surface of the metal assembly (160). [20] A method of manufacturing an arrangement (100) for measuring a volume of a solid or liquid sample (101), the method comprising: Providing a first gas path (107) containing a first valve (109), wherein the first gas path (107) is connected at one end (111) via the first valve (109) to a first chamber (103) for receiving the sample (101) and the other end (113) is connected to a gas inlet path (115); Providing a second gas path (117) containing a second valve (119), the second gas path (117) being connected at one end (121) via the second valve (119) to at least one second chamber (105) connectable to the sample chamber (103), and being connected at the other end (124) to the gas inlet path (115); Providing a third gas path (125) containing a third valve (127), wherein the third gas path (125) is connected at one end (129) to the first chamber (103) and at another end (139) via the third valve (127) to a pressure sensor (123); and Providing a fourth gas path (133) containing a fourth valve (135), wherein the fourth path (133) is connected at one end (137) to the second chamber (105) and at the other end (139) to the pressure sensor (123) via the fourth valve (135).

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