SPECTROMETER FEATURING A DISCHARGE LAMP WITH MULTI-PATHWAYS

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a spectrometer for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of a sample.

[0002] Spectrometers are known from the prior art. In particular, the classical two-beam technique, which uses semi-transparent mirrors, is known. An exemplary arrangement is shown in Figure 1As shown. In the classic two-beam technique, a light beam emanating from a light source is split into two independent beams by a first semi-transparent mirror. The first beam is guided by the semi-transparent mirror through a measuring cell (cuvette 1) containing a sample to be measured, and the second beam is deflected by another mirror so that it passes through a reference cell (cuvette 2). Both beams are deflected again by further mirrors or semi-transparent mirrors before passing through a monochromator and finally onto a detector, or being recombined before reaching the monochromator. The first beam interacts with the measuring cell or with the sample contained within it, and this interaction is imaged by the detector and the monochromator.The reference cell, which contains a reference fluid, serves to reference the sample measurement. This is intended to subtract a matrix within the reference range and largely compensate for lamp fluctuations. For measurement and referencing, the beam is alternately passed through the measuring cell and the beam through the reference cell; that is, the light beams from each cell reach the detector and the monochromator sequentially. In this arrangement with static components, i.e., the semi-transparent and normal mirrors, typically over 75% of the energy, especially the light energy, is lost. Simultaneously, the reference channel (i.e., the path from the light source through the reference cell to the detector and monochromator) and the sample channel (i.e., the path from the light source through the measuring cell to the detector and monochromator) must be briefly interrupted for differentiation.This brief interruption can be achieved, for example, by means of a chopper or a beam switcher. Instead of semi-transparent mirrors, rotating mirrors could also be used in the prior art, which switch the two beams alternately. Another possibility from the prior art is a so-called sawtooth roof with 90% mirror splitters. Likewise, designs are known from the prior art that implement diffraction using prism switches and the like.

[0003] Consequently, with devices known from the prior art, light and energy are lost through the reflective parts, and the adjustment of the channels is very complex. Last but not least, all these devices known from the prior art also involve considerable manual and optical effort – in particular, the provision of additional lenses.

[0004] WO 2006 / 017644 A2 discloses a spectrometer in which the sulfur dioxide content of a sample in a chamber is determined by means of fluorescence measurement. WO 2006 / 017644 A2 relates in particular to a control system with a photodiode that measures the lamp intensity in order to regulate the voltage of the lamp accordingly when its intensity decreases.

[0005] US Patent 4,523,096 A discloses a liquid chromatography apparatus comprising a light source for emitting ultraviolet light. The light from the light source passes through a dual flow cell of the apparatus. The dual flow cell includes a sample cell and a reference cell. A detector is provided downstream of each cell to measure the respective wavelengths.

[0006] GB 2 017 905 A relates to a device for monitoring the concentration of a selected anesthetic, preferably halothane, in a patient's exhaled air. This device comprises a sample cell connected to the exhaled air supply of the anesthetic circuit and arranged so that the entire exhaled volume can flow through the cell breath by breath. An ultraviolet radiation source is positioned to direct radiation of a wavelength selectively absorbed by the anesthetic through the sample cell and also through a reference cell. The radiation intensity emitted from each cell is detected by corresponding photodetectors, and the difference represents the amount of radiation energy absorbed by the anesthetic molecules in the sample cell.

[0007] The invention is therefore based on the objective of creating a spectrometer that operates more energy-efficiently and also reduces the manual and optical effort of the measurement. In particular, lamp drift, i.e., a loss and / or fluctuation in the power output of the lamp or light source, should also be eliminated.

[0008] The problem is solved according to the invention by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the dependent claims relating thereto.

[0009] A spectrometer according to a first aspect of the invention comprises, among other things, a substantially tubular lamp for forming a light emission zone extending in the direction of the tubular extension between two points, for emitting a first light beam and a second light beam with the same origin on the light emission zone. Furthermore, the spectrometer comprises a sample container arranged in the beam path of the first light beam for receiving a sample to be measured. A first detection device is provided in the direction of the first light beam for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the sample container based on an interaction between the sample to be measured and the first light beam.In the direction of the second light beam, a second detection device is provided for referencing the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured based on the second light beam.

[0010] In the context of this invention, a light emission zone is understood to be a two- or three-dimensional region (e.g., a substantially cylindrical light plasma) capable of emitting light of different wavelengths. The starting and ending points of this region are the two points mentioned above.

[0011] In the context of the invention, a light beam is understood to be, in particular, bundled light with different wavelengths, i.e., especially white light. The essentially uniform propagation of the respective light beams constitutes the respective beam path, wherein the beam path in turn has a preferably defined direction of propagation.

[0012] In the context of the invention, an "origin on the light emission zone" is understood to be the point from which a light ray can originate; for example, the point / area where the light ray leaves the light emission zone. "Same" is understood in particular to mean that the light emission zone has the same properties at that "same" point, i.e., in particular, the same brightness. In the case of a light plasma as the light emission zone, this applies, for example, to regions of the light emission zone which, at the same position between the points or the same distance to the points, preferably leave the light emission zone at the same angle.

[0013] Within the scope of the invention, a quantitative and / or qualitative determination of a sample to be measured is understood to mean the measurement of relevant parameters of the sample, whereby these parameters may in particular be relative proportions of a composition of the sample.

[0014] Within the scope of the invention, an interaction between a sample and a light beam is understood to mean, in particular, that the properties of the light emitted from the light emission zone are altered by the sample through which the light beam passes. Specifically, the light beam can be weakened (absorption) or strengthened due to sample-specific properties. The latter alternative is based, in particular, on the fact that an excited atom of the element through which the light beam passes emits element-specific electromagnetic radiation.

[0015] In the context of the invention, referencing is understood to mean, in particular, the elimination of undesirable effects arising from an interaction between the sample being measured and the first light beam. It is also intended to compensate for lamp fluctuations.

[0016] In other words, the present invention proposes a spectrometer that can easily generate or detect an identical reference beam to the measuring beam, i.e., the two light beams. This eliminates lamp drift and thus achieves high long-term stability of the spectrometer. Furthermore, by providing the light beams and the corresponding detection devices in this way, the mirrors known from the prior art can be omitted. In this way, the spectrometer can be designed to be more energy-efficient overall. Moreover, components, especially optical components such as mirrors, can be saved or even eliminated entirely. Compared to devices known from the prior art, the spectrometer according to the invention therefore requires no optics, or at least no comparably complex ones.The handling of the spectrometer is also simplified, as the two light beams can now be provided simultaneously. Furthermore, the switching required in the prior art is thus eliminated. In addition, the arrangement according to the invention allows for automatic compensation of the lamp intensity. This effect is achieved in particular by the position of the emission zone (height of the emission point or observation zone), i.e., specifically by the light beams originating at the same point on the emission zone or emitting at the same height, which is then imaged onto the detectors. Moreover, this arrangement of the light beams positively influences the stability of the measurement signal compared to the prior art. Compared to the classic two-beam technique used to date, the arrangement according to the invention therefore represents a very simple and efficient solution for compensating for changes in lamp emission.

[0017] The light emission zone can be provided for emitting at least one further light beam, wherein the first light beam and the further light beam each have an origin on the light emission zone, wherein the spectrometer further comprises: a further sample container arranged in the beam path of the further light beam for receiving a sample to be measured, and a further detection device arranged in the direction of the further light beam for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the further sample container based on an interaction between the sample to be measured and the further light beam.

[0018] A spectrometer according to a second aspect of the invention comprises, among other things, a substantially tubular lamp for forming a light emission zone extending in the direction of the tubular extension and between two points for emitting a first light beam and a further light beam, preferably two further light beams, each with an origin (i.e., in particular with different origins) on the light emission zone. The spectrometer comprises a sample container arranged in the beam path of the first light beam for receiving a sample to be measured and a further sample container arranged in the beam path of the further light beam for receiving a sample to be measured.In the direction of the first light beam, a first detection device for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the sample container is arranged based on an interaction between the sample to be measured and the first light beam, and in the direction of the further light beam, a further detection device for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the further sample container is arranged based on an interaction between the sample to be measured and the further light beam.

[0019] In other words, with the additional light beam, the additional sample container, and the additional detection device, or with the spectrometer according to the second aspect of the present invention, the sample to be measured in the sample containers is determined quantitatively and / or qualitatively by means of the light beams from the single lamp. The light emission zone thus extends in such a way as to illuminate at least two, preferably three, sample containers (i.e., measuring cells or cuvettes) or detection devices. Since, moreover, the light beams originate in the same light emission zone, any undesired lamp drift is compensated – similar to the first aspect of the invention. As a result, a very space-saving spectrometer is provided, in particular one comprising only a single lamp with only one lamp power supply, which simultaneously determines the sample to be measured quantitatively and / or qualitatively with high accuracy.can determine with particularly high quality and meaningful measurement results.

[0020] The sample containers can be fluidically connected, preferably in series, with one of the sample containers preferably having an opening for introducing the sample to be measured from the outside and another sample container having an opening for removing the sample to be measured from the outside, so that the sample to be measured can be passed through the fluidically connected sample containers for quantitative and / or qualitative determination. In this way, the sample to be measured is determined quantitatively and / or qualitatively in the sample containers one after the other in a simple manner. This makes the measurement process more efficient. Furthermore, meaningful measurement results are obtained by measuring the sample sequentially in preferably two different sample containers.

[0021] The first and subsequent light beams preferably have the same or different origins with respect to the extent of the light emission zone. In other words, the sample containers, each with its associated detection device, can be arranged in any configuration within the light emission zone (e.g., in the form of a light cone). This results in a very flexible and space-saving arrangement of the spectrometer.

[0022] Advantageously, the sample containers, i.e., at least the primary sample container and the secondary sample container, differ in their respective extensions along the direction of the light beam, preferably such that the extension of the secondary sample container in the direction of the secondary light beam is shorter than the extension of the primary sample container in the direction of the primary light beam. This, i.e., in particular the different layer depths, results in a different interaction between the light beam and the sample to be measured in the primary sample container and the interaction of the secondary light beam with the sample to be measured in the secondary sample container. Consequently, different interactions are represented in the detection devices, thus generating different signals, which can then be used, for example, to refine the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured.The quality of the measurement using the spectrometer can thus be increased.

[0023] The light emission zone can be provided for emitting at least one additional light beam, wherein the further light beam and the additional light beam have the same origin on the light emission zone, and wherein the spectrometer further comprises, at least for one, several or all further detection devices: an additional detection device arranged in the direction of the additional light beam for referencing the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured on the basis of the additional light beam, wherein preferably an additional reference container with a reference liquid is provided between the additional detection device and the lamp, and wherein the referencing of the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured is based on an interaction between the reference liquid and the additional light beam.In other words, the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the further sample container can be referenced according to the referencing procedure of the first aspect of the invention. The advantages of the first aspect of the invention thus apply accordingly to this preferred embodiment.

[0024] The sample container can be positioned between the first detection device and the lamp. Likewise, multiple sample containers can be positioned between their respective detection devices and the lamp. In other words, the first sample container can be positioned between the first detection device and the lamp, the second sample container between the second detection device and the lamp, and the third sample container between the lamp and the lamp. This results in a very space-saving arrangement of the spectrometer.

[0025] A reference container with a reference liquid can be provided between the second detection device and the lamp. The referencing for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the samples to be measured can be based on an interaction between the reference liquid and the second light beam. This allows the reference liquid to eliminate effects that arise from the interaction between the light beam and the sample being measured or its container. This particularly benefits the quality of the measurements.

[0026] Preferably, the same origin is provided on the light emission zone at a defined distance from one of the two points. A defined distance from one of the two points means, in particular, that the same origin does not coincide with either of the two points. The defined distance is preferably at least 1 mm, more preferably at least 2 mm, and most preferably at least 5 mm. This defined distance provides advantageous origins for the emission of the light beams for measuring the sample.

[0027] Preferably, the light beams, in particular the first and second light beams, and more preferably the further and additional light beams, each enclose an angle of 0° to 90°, particularly preferably an angle of 90°, with the light emission zone. With regard to the measurement quality, the angles of these light beams can enclose any angle with the light emission zone. The reason for this is, in particular, that only the same origin on the light emission zone is of high relevance. However, the aforementioned angular ranges allow for a particularly advantageous spatial design of the spectrometer. In particular, if the angle corresponds exactly to 90°, a very compact arrangement of the respective elements can be achieved.

[0028] The light rays, in particular the first and second light rays, and preferably also the further and the additional light rays, can each be arranged in a common plane, wherein the common plane preferably extends perpendicular to the extent of the light emission zone. That is, preferably the light emission zone extends in the same direction as the normal vector of the common plane.

[0029] The light rays, in particular the first and second light rays, and preferably also the further and additional light rays, can each enclose an angle within a range of up to and including 180°. Preferably, this angle is 180°. In other words, these light rays preferably extend in the same direction. Thus, the essential extent of the spectrometer can be limited to a single direction of extension. This optimizes the spectrometer, particularly with regard to its compactness.

[0030] The detection device can comprise a detector, preferably a detector chip, and a monochromator for spectrally isolating a specific wavelength from the light beams. The monochromator can be arranged on the detector or between the detector and the lamp, i.e., in front of the detector with respect to the lamp. The monochromator can filter wavelengths or wavelength ranges of the light emanating from the sample that may be relevant for quantitative and / or qualitative determination.

[0031] The detector, or preferably the detector chip, then evaluates this light filtered by the monochromator accordingly.

[0032] The monochromators can each have a tubular aperture, the aperture passing through the monochromator such that a first aperture opening faces the lamp and a second aperture opening faces the detector, preferably at least partially surrounding it. Preferably, the aperture has at least partially the same inner diameter as the sample container, and more preferably, the same inner diameter as the sample containers. This is to be understood in particular as meaning that the aperture can have different inner diameters.

[0033] The lamp can have a translucent bulb that forms the tubular shape of the lamp and also surrounds the light emission zone. Preferably, the bulb contains a filling gas that creates the light emission zone. In other words, the filling gas has physical and / or chemical properties that enable the light emission zone to be created.

[0034] Furthermore, the spectrometer has a lamp housing surrounding the lamp for emitting the light beams. In other words, the spectrometer preferably has a lamp housing designed such that it, together with the lamp, i.e., in particular with the light emission zone, can emit the light beams. In this way, the light beams can be emitted particularly easily. Preferably, the lamp housing has a first opening for emitting the first light beam, a second opening for emitting the second light beam, and / or a further opening for emitting the subsequent light beam, and / or an additional opening for emitting the additional light beam.The first and second openings are preferably configured such that a first (imaginary) line passing through the first opening and the first detection device, and a second (imaginary) line passing through the second opening and the second detection device, intersect in the lamp and at the same origin. The further and the additional openings are preferably configured such that a further (imaginary) line passing through the further opening and the further detection device (D3), and an additional (imaginary) line passing through the additional opening and the additional detection device, intersect in the lamp and at the same origin. By such a configuration of the openings or such a preferred configuration of the lines with respect to the openings and the detection devices, the light rays can be detected particularly easily and reliably, i.e.,In particular, the lamp housing must be reliably adjusted with reference to the same origin. The lamp housing can be round or polygonal. Preferably, the lamp housing is rectangular.

[0035] Furthermore, a connecting device is provided for connecting the sample container(s) to the lamp.

[0036] The connecting element has a shape that corresponds to the lamp housing and the respective sample container. This corresponding shape advantageously allows only this connecting element to be used to connect the sample container to the lamp. In other words, the corresponding shape means that only this connecting element is required to connect the sample container to the lamp. This eliminates the need for additional fasteners such as screws or similar components.

[0037] The spectrometer can also have a casing surrounding the sample container. Such a casing can be particularly advantageous if there is increased pressure inside the sample container, for example, the pressure of a gas. Furthermore, such a casing allows the sample container to be securely held.

[0038] The sample container may have openings for adding and / or removing the sample to be measured from the outside. "Outside" here refers specifically to "outside the spectrometer." Providing such openings in the sample container significantly reduces the number of steps required to place a sample into the container. Furthermore, the sample container no longer needs to be removed from the spectrometer. This also allows for uninterrupted measurement of multiple different samples.

[0039] It can be specifically designed that the opening for taking the sample from the sample container is fluidically connected to the opening for introducing the sample from the second sample container, in order to guide the sample to be measured through the fluidically connected sample containers for quantitative and / or qualitative determination. This is, in turn, very advantageous for the handling steps for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured, since the sample to be measured passes continuously from the first sample container to the second without interruption. Furthermore, this allows for easy automation of the measurement of the sample in the two sample containers.

[0040] The lamp can be a plasma lamp, preferably a low-pressure plasma lamp or a high-pressure plasma lamp. Such lamps are particularly well suited for emitting the aforementioned light beams for measuring the sample.

[0041] The light emission zone can have an electrode at each of the two points to form a light plasma between the electrodes. In other words, the points can be configured such that a potential difference forms between them. Preferably, the electrode is a pot electrode; that is, a pot-shaped electrode. By providing the pot electrode—especially in comparison to known pointed electrodes, where the arc constricts towards the electrodes—the same origin can be brought very close to the electrode, taking into account the requirements of the measurement.

[0042] The light emission zone can be configured to emit at least two additional light beams, each originating from the light emission zone, with each additional light beam corresponding to a further sample container and a further detection device. Thus, a single lamp can illuminate a total of at least three sample containers, each with its own detection device. This provides, in particular, a very space-saving spectrometer for measuring a large number of sample containers or samples.

[0043] The invention is described below by way of example with reference to the figures, which illustrate advantageous embodiments of the invention. The drawings show: Figure 1 shows a spectrometer known from the prior art; Figure 2 shows an embodiment of the spectrometer according to the invention; Figure 3 shows a schematic embodiment of the spectrometer according to a further aspect of the invention; and Figure 4 shows a schematic embodiment of a further embodiment of the spectrometer according to the further aspect of the invention.

[0044] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a spectrometer according to the invention. The spectrometer 1 has a lamp 2 that extends in a substantially tubular shape. Figure 2In this example, lamp 2 extends into the plane of the drawing. "Tubular" is not limited to the type of cross-section. In particular, any type of cross-section is conceivable. "Extending in a tubular shape" is understood to mean that lamp 2 does not significantly change its cross-section along its direction of extension. Advantageously, lamp 2 has an annular cross-section. However, the cross-section of lamp 2 can also be partially circular or annular, or cuboid. An annular or circular cross-section is advantageous because, with this shape, only the position of the origin described later on the light emission zone 3—i.e., the position of the emission zone—is of high priority for the measurement. Lamp 2 can be a plasma lamp, preferably a low-pressure plasma lamp or a high-pressure plasma lamp.

[0045] The lamp 2 is designed to form a light emission zone 3 in the spectrometer 1, extending in the direction of the tubular extension and between two points. Figure 2The light emission zone 3 extends, for example, as a point into the plane of the drawing. The lamp 2 can also have a translucent bulb 4 forming a tubular shape, which surrounds the light emission zone 3. Preferably, the bulb 4 also contains a filling gas that generates the light emission zone 3. Such a filling gas has the physical and / or chemical properties necessary to generate the light emission zone 3. The generation of the light emission zone 3 can, for example, be achieved by a glow discharge. Preferably, the light emission zone 3 has an electrode at each of the two points for forming a light plasma as the light emission zone 3 between the electrodes. Preferably, a potential exists between the two electrodes so that the light emission zone 3 can be formed by this potential. For this purpose, the electrodes or the two points can be connected to an external voltage source.

[0046] Preferably, the electrodes are pot electrodes. That is, the electrodes have a pot- or cup-shaped form.

[0047] Lamp 2 and light emission zone 3 emit a first light beam L1 and a second light beam L2, both originating from the same point on light emission zone 3. That is, lamp 2 and light emission zone 3 are preferably designed such that the two light beams L1 and L2 have the same origin on light emission zone 3. This same origin can be located at a distance from one of two points on light emission zone 3. With reference to Figure 2This distance extends, for example, into the plane of the drawing. That is, the coordinate of the same origin can change in or out of the plane of the drawing, but remains the same along the plane of the drawing. The same origin can be located on the light emission zone 3 at a defined distance from one of the two points. The defined distance is preferably at least 1 mm, more preferably at least 2 mm, and most preferably at least 5 mm.

[0048] The light rays L1, L2 can each form an angle of 0° to 90° with the light emission zone 3. Thus, the light rays L1, L2 can each have a component parallel to the light emission zone 3 and a component perpendicular to the light emission zone 3. The light rays L1, L2 can extend independently of each other with respect to the light emission zone 3. Preferably, at least one of the light rays L1, L2 forms an angle of 90° with the light emission zone 3. Particularly preferably, both light rays L1, L2 form an angle of 90° with the light emission zone 3. In the latter case, both light rays L1, L2 extend in a common plane that is perpendicular to the extent of the light emission zone 3. In the exemplary embodiment in Figure 2This is exemplified by the drawing plane, which is perpendicular to light emission zone 3, or rather, the normal vector of the drawing plane corresponds to the direction of extension of light emission zone 3. However, it can also be provided that the light rays L1, L2 are arranged in a common plane, whereby this common plane is not perpendicular to light emission zone 3 or its direction of extension. In this case, this common plane forms an angle with the drawing plane. Figure 2 one. This angle can include an angle from 0° to 90°.

[0049] Furthermore, the light rays L1, L2 can enclose an angle. The angle can be up to 180°. Preferably, the angle is, as exemplified in Figure 2 The angle shown is 180°. However, it may be intended that the angle be 45°, 90°, or 135°. Figure 2Figure 1 shows a particularly advantageous arrangement in which the common plane, in which the light rays L1 and L2 are provided, extends perpendicular to the extent of the light emission zone 3, and in which the light rays L1 and L2 enclose an angle of 180°. This arrangement results in a very space-saving arrangement of the spectrometer.

[0050] A sample container 6 for holding a sample to be measured is arranged in the beam path of the first light beam L1. The sample container 6 preferably has a symmetrical shape, such as a cylindrical shape. Preferably, the sample container 6 has the shape of a cuvette. The sample container 6 is preferably designed to hold a gaseous and / or liquid sample. These samples can be, in particular, vapors of elements such as mercury (Hg). However, the spectrometer is generally also suitable for all other gaseous and / or liquid samples. Preferably, the direction of extension of the sample container 6 is aligned with the light beam L1. Preferably, an axis, particularly preferably the axis of symmetry, of the sample container 6 coincides with the light beam L1. The sample container can have a lid 63, 64 at each end.The light beam L1 preferably enters the sample container 6 through the lid 63 and exits the sample container 6 through the lid 64. The sample container 6 may also have openings 61, 62 for feeding and / or removing the sample to be measured from the outside. These openings 61, 62 are advantageously provided at the beginning and end of the sample container 6, respectively. The sample container 6 may also have a surrounding jacket 8. The jacket 8 preferably has a shape corresponding to the sample container 6. In particular, the jacket 8 may have recesses for the openings 61, 62. Feeding and / or removal elements 65, 66 may be provided in the recesses, which may be aligned with the openings 61, 62 in the jacket 8. Elements 65 and 66 can be connected to an external feed and / or removal device.The coat 8 preferably comprises a pressure-resistant material.

[0051] In the direction of the first light beam L1, a first detection device D1 is provided for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the sample container 6 based on an interaction between the sample to be measured and the first light beam. That is, if the first light beam L1 is conceptually extended, the first detection device is located along this conceptual extension of the light beam L1. Depending on the nature of the interaction, it is also possible that at least a portion of the first light beam L1, i.e., in particular a weakened light beam, escapes in the direction of the light beam L1 and from the sample container 6, and the detection device D1 is arranged within this portion of the light beam as L1. Preferably, the sample container is arranged between the detection device D1 and the lamp 2.

[0052] In the direction of the second light beam L2, a second detection device D2 is provided for referencing the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured based on the second light beam L2. Preferably, the light beam L2 reaches the detection device D2 completely, so that the detection device D2 is arranged within the second light beam L2. However, it is also possible that only a portion of the light beam L2 reaches the detection device D2, and the detection device D2 is arranged within this portion of the light beam L2.

[0053] A reference container with a reference liquid can be provided between the second detection device D2 and the lamp 2. The referencing for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured can be carried out additionally or alternatively to referencing based on the second light beam L2, based on an interaction between the reference liquid and the second light beam L2. However, such a reference container is only optional and is therefore omitted in the exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 Not shown for clarity. According to the embodiment with reference container, the design and / or arrangement can be as shown in sample container 6, but the reference liquid is provided in the reference container instead of the sample to be measured.

[0054] The detection devices D1 and D2 can each include a detector DE1 and DE2, respectively. The detection device D1, preferably the detector DE1, is preferably configured to determine a characteristic, i.e., in particular a quantitative and / or qualitative characteristic, of the sample to be measured based on the interaction between the sample and the first light beam L1. In particular, it can be provided that the detection devices D1 and D2 are each connected to a processing unit, such as a computer, from which the corresponding quantitative and / or qualitative results of the measurement can be read out. The detectors DE1 and DE2 are each preferably a detector chip.

[0055] Furthermore, the detection devices D1, D2 preferably include a monochromator M1, M2, particularly preferably each in the form of an interference filter system, for spectrally isolating a specific wavelength from the light beams L1, L2. In other words, selective spectral analysis can be achieved by the monochromators M1, M2, by clipping unnecessary spectral ranges. Preferably, the monochromators M1, M2 are also connected to a processing unit, so that the processing unit can set the specific wavelength to be spectrally isolated. Preferably, the processing unit is the same processing unit that is connected to the detectors DE1, DE2. Thus, one processing unit can be used for all detectors DE1, DE2 and all monochromators M1, M2. Alternatively, an independent processing unit can be provided for each element.Preferably, the monochromators M1 and M2 are arranged on the detector or between detectors DE1 and DE2, respectively, and lamp 2. Alternatively, the monochromators M1 and M2 can each accommodate and preferably enclose the detectors DE1 and DE2.

[0056] As from Figure 2As can be seen, the monochromators M1, M2 can each have a tubular aperture B1, B2, wherein the aperture B1, B2 preferably passes through the monochromator M1, M2 such that the aperture B1, B2 is opposite the lamp 2 with a first aperture opening. Preferably, a distance is provided between the first aperture opening and the lamp 2. The second aperture opening can be opposite the detector DE1 or the detector DE2. Preferably, the second aperture opening at least partially surrounds the detector DE1 or DE2. Particularly preferably, the detectors DE1, DE2 are each accommodated by the second aperture opening. The apertures B1, B2 particularly preferably have at least partially the same inner diameter as the sample container 6. Figure 2The inner diameter of apertures B1 and B2 is stepped. According to this preferred embodiment, aperture B1 and B2 have two inner diameters, one of which is dimensioned to accommodate detectors DE1 and DE2, respectively. The second inner diameter preferably has the same inner diameter as the sample container 6. Preferably, apertures B1 and B2 are each designed as aperture-limiting apertures.

[0057] The spectrometer further comprises a lamp housing 5 surrounding the lamp 2 for emitting the light beams L1 and L2. That is, the lamp housing 5 is preferably designed such that it can generate the light beams L1 and L2, or rather, their orientation. For this purpose, the lamp housing 5 can have a first opening 51 for emitting the first light beam L1 and a second opening 52 for emitting the second light beam L2. The openings 51 and 52 are preferably arranged such that a first straight line, which passes through the first opening 51 and the first detection device D1, and a second straight line, which passes through the second opening 52 and the second detection device D2, intersect in the lamp 2 and at the same origin. In other words, the first straight line preferably coincides with the first light beam L1, and the second straight line preferably coincides with the second light beam L2.The first opening 51 is preferably located between lamp 2 and detection device D2. The first opening 51 is preferably located between the sample container 6 and the lamp 2. The lamp housing 5 can be round or polygonal. Particularly preferred is, as in . Figure 2 The lamp housing is shown to be rectangular. The lamp housing preferably extends at least along the direction of extension of the lamp 2.

[0058] As in Figure 2 As illustrated by way of example, the spectrometer 1 also has a connecting element 7 for connecting the sample container 6 to the lamp 2. The connecting element 7 has a shape corresponding to the lamp housing 5 and the sample container 6. For this purpose, the connecting element 7 is designed such that the lamp housing 5 is accommodated on its outer diameter, and the sample container 6, preferably the jacket 8, is accommodated in its inner diameter.

[0059] The following describes an exemplary procedure for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of a sample to be measured in sample container 6. First, the sample is introduced into sample container 6. The sample is typically a gas, in particular an unknown ratio of at least two gases, such as mercury. The spectrometer 1 is used to determine the quantitative and / or qualitative properties of this sample, i.e., in particular the ratio of specific gases. The first light beam L1 is passed through the sample. The detection device D1, located downstream of sample container 6, detects the interaction between the sample and the first light beam L1. A processing unit connected to the detection device D1 can then generate the spectrum of the sample.Since this spectrum can contain noise, a second light beam L2, which has the same origin on the light emission zone 3 as the first light beam L1 (in order to have the same light characteristics), is directed onto the second detection device D2. The spectrum of the second light beam L2 is then also imaged by the second detection device D2. The two spectra can then be combined to generate a noise-free spectrum of the sample being measured. Based on this noise-free spectrum, the quantitative and / or qualitative properties of the sample being measured, i.e., in particular the sample's proportions, for example, as a gas distribution curve, can then be interpreted.

[0060] Figure 3Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a spectrometer 1' according to a further (second) aspect of the invention. The spectrometer 1' also includes the substantially tubular lamp 2 for forming the light emission zone 3, which extends in the direction of the tubular extension and between the two points, for emitting the first light beam L1. The emission of the second light beam L2 is not mandatory in the spectrometer 1'. Furthermore, the spectrometer 1' also includes the sample container 6, arranged in the beam path of the first light beam L1, for receiving a sample to be measured. In the direction of the first light beam L1, the first detection device D1 is also provided for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the sample container 6 based on an interaction between the sample to be measured and the first light beam L1.

[0061] The lamp 2 of the spectrometer 1' is now designed to emit a further light beam L3 with a different origin on the light emission zone 3 (i.e., a different origin than the light beam L1). This means that, in this embodiment, the first light beam L1 and the further light beam L3 each have a separate origin on the light emission zone 3. However, it is also possible for the light beams L1 and L3 to have the same origin on the light emission zone 3. Preferably, the origins on the light emission zone 3 can be spaced apart from each other. This allows the lamp 2, or the light emission zone 3, to emit two independent light beams L1 and L3, which are parallel to each other and / or point in the same direction.However, it is also possible for the light rays to point in different directions and / or not be aligned parallel to each other.

[0062] The lamp housing 5 described above can be used to emit the light beams L1 and L3. The lamp housing 5 can be provided with a further opening (not shown) for emitting the second light beam. That is, the first opening 51 and the second opening are spaced apart from each other in the direction of the light emission zone 3 (between the points) to emit the light beams L1 and L3. However, since the origin of the light beams L1 and L3 on the light emission zone 3 is not relevant, for the sake of simplicity, the sample containers 6 and 16, with their respective detection devices D1 and D3, can each be arranged along one of the light beams emitted by the lamp 3.

[0063] How Figure 3Furthermore, it can be seen that another sample container 16 for receiving a sample to be measured is provided in the beam path of the further light beam L3. The sample container 16 is essentially designed like the sample container 6, i.e., in particular with regard to its length, so that what has been said about the sample container 6 applies accordingly to the sample container 16. Figure 3It is particularly evident that the extension of sample container 16 in the direction along the light beam L3 differs from the extension of sample container 6 in the direction of the light beam L1. Preferably, the extensions differ such that the extension of the further sample container 16 in the direction of the further light beam L3 is shorter than the extension of sample container 6 in the direction of the first light beam L1, which offers certain advantages – which will be described in more detail below – with regard to the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured.

[0064] The previously described connecting element 7 either also connects the sample container 16 to the lamp 2, or another connecting element, which is designed in accordance with the connecting element 7, connects the sample container 16 to the lamp 2.

[0065] The previously described jacket 8, or a further jacket separately provided for the sample container 16 and designed in accordance with the previously described jacket 8, can surround the sample container 16. Preferably, the spectrometer 1' has a single jacket 8 that surrounds the sample containers 6 and 16 together.

[0066] The further sample container 16 can also have a lid (window) 163, 164 at each of its ends. These are essentially designed in the same way as lids 63, 64, so that what has been said with regard to lids 63, 64 applies accordingly to lids 163, 164.

[0067] In the direction of the further light beam L3, a further detection device D3 is provided for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the further sample container 16 based on an interaction between the sample to be measured and the further light beam L3. The detection device D3 essentially corresponds to the previously described detection device D1 or D2, so that what has been said regarding the detection devices D1 and D3 applies accordingly to the further detection device D3. This means in particular that the detection device D3 can also have a detector DE3, preferably a detector chip, and a monochromator M3. What has been said regarding the detector DE1 or DE2 and regarding the monochromator M1 or M2 therefore applies accordingly to the detector DE3 and the monochromator M3. The monochromator M3 can furthermore have an aperture B3, which corresponds to the previously described aperture B1 or D2.B2 is designed.

[0068] As the Figure 3 As can also be seen, the different extensions of the sample containers 6, 16, particularly with regard to length, can also result in different distances between the detection devices D1, D3 and the lamp 3. It can therefore be specifically provided that the detection device D3 is arranged closer to the lamp 3 than the detection device D1.

[0069] In Figure 3Figure 1 illustrates that the sample containers 6 and 16 can be fluidically connected, allowing the sample to be measured to be passed through them for quantitative and / or qualitative determination. To provide this fluid connection, the sample containers 6 and 16 are preferably connected in series, so that the sample passes through them sequentially. Figure 1 further illustrates this fluid connection. Figure 3Arrows E (feed direction) and A (removal direction) and the arrows shown in the sample containers 6 and 16 are indicated. In particular, the further sample container 16 may also have openings 161 and 162, which are configured accordingly. Opening 161 is provided for feeding the sample to be measured into the sample container 16. Opening 161 is, for example, located at the lower end of the sample container 16, preferably on the side of the detection device D3. Opening 162 is provided for removing the sample to be measured from the sample container 16 and from the outside. Opening 162 is, for example, located at the upper end of the sample container 16, preferably on the side of the lamp 2, i.e., closer to the lamp 2 than opening 161.It can therefore be provided that, for the aforementioned fluid-technical connection of the first sample container 6 with the further sample container 16, the opening 62 is fluidly connected to the opening 161. For the fluid-technical connection of the openings 62 and 161, a channel connecting these openings, which is preferably provided or designed in the casing 8, can be provided. A sample to be measured thus first enters the sample container 6 via the opening 61 and is quantitatively and / or qualitatively determined there. After the sample to be measured has been quantitatively and / or qualitatively determined in the sample container 6, it enters the further sample container 16 via the opening 62 and the opening 161, where the sample to be measured is again quantitatively and / or qualitatively determined. This results in a particularly accurate quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured.This effect is further enhanced if the sample containers 6, 16 differ in their extent along the respective light beam (see above). The in the . Figure 3 The arrows shown illustrate the path of the sample to be measured through spectrometer 1' and sample containers 6 and 16. Arrow E indicates that the sample to be measured enters spectrometer 1' (from the outside) via sample container 6 and opening 61. Arrow A indicates that the sample to be measured exits spectrometer 1' via sample container 16 and opening 162 (to the outside).

[0070] Furthermore, a feed and extraction device (not shown) may be provided, which feeds and extracts the sample to be measured from the spectrometer 1', in particular such that the sample to be measured is first quantitatively and / or qualitatively determined in the sample container 6 and subsequently in the further sample container 16. This device may be a device such as a pump unit, provided at the opening 61 and / or opening 162, which generates overpressure and / or underpressure. By means of the feed and extraction device, it is thus particularly possible for the sample to be measured to follow the path indicated by the arrows (cf. Figure 3 ) through the spectrometer 1', in particular through the sample containers 6, 16.

[0071] Furthermore, the detection devices D1 and D3 can each be connected to a processing unit, such as a computer, which can read out and process the quantitative and / or qualitative results of the measurements obtained by the detection devices D1 and D3. For example, the processing unit can combine the quantitative and / or qualitative determinations from the detection devices D1 and D3 to quantitatively and / or qualitatively determine the sample being measured. Thus, a single result of the quantitative and / or qualitative determination can be calculated from the results of the detection devices D1 and D3, resulting in a very high degree of accuracy and reliability.

[0072] The spectrometer 1' can additionally include the previously described referencing device (light beam L2 with second detection device D2, etc.) for referencing the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured. The lamp 2 or the light emission zone 3 is therefore specifically designed to emit an additional light beam (e.g., the previously described light beam L2; i.e., the descriptions for the first and second light beams L1 and L2 apply accordingly to the further light beam L3 and the additional light beam) in addition to the light beams L1 and L3, in order to reference the sample to be measured in the sample containers 6 and / or 16 based on the additional light beam.The further light beam L3 and the additional light beam then have the same origin on the light emission zone 3, wherein the spectrometer further comprises, at least for one, several or all further detection devices: an additional detection device arranged in the direction of the additional light beam for referencing the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured based on the additional light beam. Preferably, an additional reference container with a reference liquid is provided between the additional detection device and the lamp 2, and wherein the referencing of the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured is based on an interaction between the reference liquid and the additional light beam.The previously described explanations regarding the referencing of the quantitative and / or qualitative determination using the first light beam L1 therefore apply accordingly to the referencing of the quantitative and / or qualitative determination using the light beam L1 and / or the light beam L3.

[0073] It can also be provided that the light emission zone 3 of the spectrometer 1 is provided for emitting the further light beam L3, wherein the first light beam L1 and the further light beam L3 each have an origin on the light emission zone 3, wherein the spectrometer 1 further comprises the further sample container 16 arranged in the beam path of the further light beam L3 for receiving a sample to be measured, and the further detection device D3 arranged in the direction of the further light beam L3 for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the further sample container 16 on the basis of an interaction between the sample to be measured and the further light beam L3.

[0074] Furthermore, the spectrometer 1' may be provided with two additional sample containers, i.e., in addition to the further sample container 16, there may be another sample container. The light emission zone 3 is then designed to emit at least two further light beams, each originating on the light emission zone 3, or the further sample container is illuminated by the lamp 2, corresponding to sample containers 6 and 16. This further sample container thus has—like sample containers 6 and 16—an (additional) detection device. What has been said regarding sample containers 6 and 16, the light beams L1 and L3, and the detection devices D1 and D3 applies accordingly to this sample container with its corresponding detection device. This sample container can, in turn, be fluidically connected to sample container 16 via the fluid connection between sample containers 6 and 16.In other words, each sample container is fluidically connected to the next, or the sample containers are fluidically connected in series. This allows the aforementioned advantageous effects, particularly the high accuracy of the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured, to be further enhanced.

[0075] As in Figure 4As shown, the spectrometer 1' can further comprise a buffer container 10, which is fluidically connected to the last or subsequent sample container 16 (and / or sample container 6). The buffer container 10 increases the volume of the sample container 16 and preferably has no outlet to the outside of the spectrometer 1'. The sample container 16 can preferably be fluidically connected to the buffer container 10 via two openings 10a, 10b, which are provided for feeding and removing the sample to be measured into and from the buffer container 10. The buffer container 10 is preferably fluidly connected to the subsequent sample container 16 such that the sample to be measured first enters the sample container 16 (via opening 161), and after interaction with the light beam L3 and quantitative and / or qualitative determination (via opening 10a), enters the buffer container and is buffered there.The sample is temporarily stored and then (via opening 10b) returns to the sample container 16. Once back in the sample container 16, the sample to be measured can finally escape outside the spectrometer 1', e.g., via opening 162.

[0076] The following describes an exemplary procedure for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of a sample to be measured in sample containers 6, 16 or in the spectrometer 1'. First, the sample to be measured is introduced into sample container 6. The sample is generally a gas, in particular an unknown ratio of at least two gases, such as mercury. The spectrometer 1' is used to determine the quantitative and / or qualitative properties of this sample, i.e., in particular the ratio of certain gases. The first light beam L1 is passed through sample container 6 and the sample to be measured. The detection device D1, located downstream of sample container 6, detects the interaction between the sample to be measured and the first light beam L1.A processing unit connected to the detection device D1 can then map the spectrum of the sample to be measured. The sample to be measured is then introduced into sample container 16 via the fluid connection between sample containers 6 and 16. The additional light beam L3 is guided through the additional sample container 16 and this sample to be measured. The additional detection device D3, located downstream of sample container 16, detects the interaction between the sample to be measured and the additional light beam L3. This interaction can differ from the preceding interaction, i.e., the interaction in sample container 6, particularly if the sample container 16 has a shorter length, so that the spectrum of the sample to be measured and / or the signal of the detection device D3 also differ. A processing unit connected to the additional detection device D3 can then map the spectrum of the sample to be measured.The two measurements acquired by the detection devices D1 and D3 are then combined to quantitatively and / or qualitatively determine the sample being measured. The measurements can be combined, for example, on the processing unit.

[0077] The invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

[0078] All features described above or shown in the figures can be combined with one another within the scope of the claims. The present invention thus proposes a spectrometer which, with a single lamp, can determine quantitative and / or qualitative properties of the sample to be measured simply, in a space-saving manner, and with high accuracy.

Claims

1. Spectrometer (1) comprising: - a substantially tubular lamp (2) for forming a light emission zone (3) extending in the direction of the tubular extension and between two points for emitting a first light beam (L1) and a second light beam (L2) having a same origin on the light emission zone (3), - a sample container (6) arranged in the beam path of the first light beam (L1) for receiving a sample to be measured, - a first detection device (D1), arranged in the direction of the first light beam (L1) for quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the sample container (6) on the basis of an interaction between the sample to be measured and the first light beam (L1) - a second detection device (D2) arranged in the direction of the second light beam (L2) for referencing the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured on the basis of the second light beam (L2) and - a lamp housing (5) surrounding the lamp (2) for emitting the light beams (L1, L2), - wherein a connection means (7) is provided for connecting the sample container (6) to the lamp (2), characterized in that the connection means (7) has a form corresponding to the lamp housing (5) and the sample container (6) in such a manner that the lamp housing (5) is received on an outside diameter of the connection means (7) and the sample container (6) is received in an inside diameter of the connection means (7).

2. Spectrometer (1') according to Claim 1, wherein the light emission zone (3) is provided for emitting at least one further light beam (L3), wherein the first light beam (L1) and the further light beam (L3) each have an origin on the light emission zone (3), wherein the spectrometer further comprises: - a further sample container (16) arranged in the beam path of the further light beam (L3) for receiving a sample to be measured, and - a further detection device (D3) arranged in the beam path of the further light beam (L3) for quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the further sample container (16) on the basis of an interaction between the sample to be measured and the further light beam (L3).

3. Spectrometer (1') comprising: - a lamp (2) extending substantially in the form of a tube for forming a light emission zone (3) extending in the direction of the tubular extension and between two points for emitting a first light beam (L1) and at least one further light beam (L3), each with an origin on the light emission zone (3), - a sample container (6) arranged in the beam path of the first light beam (L1) for receiving a sample to be measured, - a further sample container (16) arranged in the beam path of the further light beam (L3) for receiving a sample to be measured, - a first detection device (D1), arranged in the direction of the first light beam (L1) for quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the sample container (6) on the basis of an interaction between the sample to be measured and the first light beam (L1) - a further detection device (D3) arranged in the direction of the further light beam (L3) for quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured in the further sample container (16) on the basis of an interaction between the sample to be measured and the further light beam (L3) and - a lamp housing (5) surrounding the lamp (2) for emitting the light beams (L1, L3), - wherein a connection means (7) is provided for connecting the sample container (6) to the lamp (2), characterized in that the connection means (7) has a form corresponding to the lamp housing (5) and the sample container (6) in such a manner that the lamp housing (5) is received on an outside diameter of the connection means (7) and the sample container (6) is received in an inside diameter of the connection means (7) and - that either the connection means (7) further connects the further sample container (16) to the lamp (2) or a further connection means is provided which is configured according to the connection means (7) which connects the further sample container (16) to the lamp (2).

4. Spectrometer (1') according to Claim 2 or 3, wherein the sample containers (6, 16) are fluidically connected to one another, preferably are connected in series, wherein preferably one of the sample containers (6) has an opening (61) for feeding the sample to be measured from the outside and another sample container (16) has an opening (162) for removing the sample to be measured from the outside, so that the sample to be measured can be guided through the fluidically connected sample containers (6, 16) for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination.

5. Spectrometer (1') according to one of Claims 2 to 4, wherein the first light beam (L1) and the further light beam (L3) have the same or different origin with respect to the extension of the light emission zone (3).

6. Spectrometer (1') according to one of Claims 2 to 5, wherein the sample containers (6, 16) differ in their respective extension in the direction along the respective light beam (L1, L3), preferably in such a manner that the extension of the further sample container (16) in the direction of the further light beam (L3) is shorter than the extension of the sample container (6) in the direction of the first light beam (L1).

7. Spectrometer (1') according to one of Claims 2 and 4 to 6, wherein the light emission zone (3) is provided for emitting at least one additional light beam, wherein the further light beam (L3) and the additional light beam have the same origin on the light emission zone (3) and wherein the spectrometer further comprises at least for one, several or all the further detection devices: - an additional detection device arranged in the direction of the additional light beam for referencing the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured on the basis of the additional light beam.

8. Spectrometer (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sample container (6) is arranged between the first detection device (D1) and the lamp (2) and wherein preferably the sample containers (6, 16) are each arranged between the respective detection device (D1; D3) and the lamp (2).

9. Spectrometer (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a reference container containing a reference liquid is provided between the second detection device (D2) and the lamp (2), and wherein the referencing of the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured takes place on the basis of an interaction between the reference liquid and the second light beam (L2), and / or wherein an additional reference container containing a reference liquid is provided between the additional detection device and the lamp (2) and wherein the referencing of the quantitative and / or qualitative determination of the sample to be measured is based on an interaction between the reference liquid and the sample.

10. Spectrometer (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the same origin is provided on the light emission zone (3) at a defined distance from one of the two points, wherein the defined distance is preferably at least 1 mm, particularly preferably at least 2 mm, quite particularly preferably at least 5 mm.

11. Spectrometer (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and the second light beam (L1, L2) and preferably furthermore the further and the additional light beam (L3) each enclose an angle of 0° to 90°, preferably an angle of 90°, with the light emission zone (3) and / or wherein the first and the second light beam (L1, L2) and preferably furthermore the further and the additional light beam (L3) are provided in a common plane, and wherein the common plane preferably extends perpendicular to the extension of the light emission zone (3) and / or wherein the first and the second light beam (L1, L2) and preferably furthermore the further and the additional light beam (L3) each enclose an angle, wherein the angle is 180°.

12. Spectrometer (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the detection devices (D1, D2, D3) each comprise a detector (DE1, DE2, DE3), preferably a detector chip, and a monochromator (M1, M2, M3) for spectrally isolating a specific wavelength from the light beams (L1, L2, L3), wherein the monochromator (M1, M2, M3) is arranged on the detector or between detector (DE1, DE2, DE3) and lamp (2), wherein preferably the monochromators (M1, M2, M3) each have a tubular aperture (B1, B2, B3), wherein the aperture (B1, B2, B3) each pass through the monochromator (M1, M2, M3) such that the aperture (B1, B2, B3) with a first aperture opening lies opposite the lamp (2) and with a second aperture opening lies opposite the detector (DE1, DE2, DE3) and preferably at least partially surrounds the latter, and wherein further preferably the aperture (B1, B2, B3) has at least partially the same inside diameter as the respective sample container (6).

13. Spectrometer (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lamp (2) has a light transmissive envelope (4) forming the tubular shape, which surrounds the light emission zone (3), wherein the envelope (4) preferably contains a fill gas generating the light emission zone (3).

14. Spectrometer (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lamp housing (5) has a first opening (51) for emitting the first light beam (L1), a second opening (52) for emitting the second light beam (L2) and / or a further opening (53) for emitting the further light beam (L3) and / or an additional opening for emitting the additional light beam, wherein the first and the second opening (51, 52) are further preferably provided in such a manner that a first straight line which leads through the first opening (51) and the first detection device (D1) and a second straight line which leads through the second opening (52) and the second detection device (D2) intersect in the lamp (2) and at the same origin and wherein the further and the additional opening are provided in such a way that a further straight line which leads through the further opening and the further detection device (D3) and an additional straight line which leads through the additional opening and the additional detection device intersect in the lamp (2) and at the same origin and / or wherein the lamp housing (5) is configured to be round or polygonal, further preferably rectangular.

15. Spectrometer (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a jacket (8) surrounding the respective sample container (6, 16) and / or wherein the sample container (6, 16) has openings (61, 62; 161, 162) for supplying and / or removing the sample to be measured from the outside, wherein preferably the opening (62) for removing the sample from the sample container (6) is fluidically connected with the opening (161) for supplying the sample of the further sample container (16), in order to guide the sample to be measured through the fluidically connected sample containers (6, 16) for the quantitative and / or qualitative determination.

16. Spectrometer (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lamp (2) is a plasma lamp, preferably a low-pressure plasma lamp or a highpressure plasma lamp and / or wherein the light emission zone (3) has an electrode, preferably a pot electrode, at each of the two points for forming a light plasma as the light emission zone (3) between the electrodes.

17. Spectrometer (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the light emission zone (3) is provided for emitting at least two further light beams, each having an origin on the light emission zone (3), wherein each further light beam is assigned a further sample container and a further detection device.