Autosampler rail system with magnetic coupling for linear motion

Abstract

To prevent release of metal particles from an autosampler that may be detected within a sample during sample analysis.SOLUTION: An autosampler system includes, but is not limited to, a sample probe support structure; a z-axis support; an outer shuttle coupled with an outer surface of the z-axis support; and an inner shuttle linearly movable within an interior volume of the z-axis support. The inner shuttle is magnetically coupled with the outer shuttle to translate linear motion of the inner shuttle to the outer shuttle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 992,334, filed March 20, 2020, and entitled "Autosampler Rail System with Magnetic Coupling for Linear Motion," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] In many laboratory environments, it may be necessary to analyze a large number of chemical or biochemical samples in individual sample containers. To streamline this process, sample manipulation is mechanized. Such mechanized sampling is commonly referred to as autosampling and is performed using an automatic sampling device or autosampler. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An autosampler system is described that prevents the release of metal particles from the autosampler that may be detected in a sample during sample analysis. System embodiments include, but are not limited to, a sample probe support structure configured to hold a sample probe and transport a fluid sample through the sample probe, a z-axis support coupled to the sample probe support structure, an outer shuttle coupled to an outer surface of the z-axis support and coupled to the sample probe support structure, and an inner shuttle linearly movable within an interior volume of the z-axis support, the inner shuttle magnetically coupled to the outer shuttle to translate linear motion of the inner shuttle to provide linear motion for the outer shuttle.

[0004] In one aspect, the autosampler system includes, but is not limited to, a sample probe support structure configured to hold a sample probe and transfer a fluid sample through the sample probe; a z-axis support coupled to the sample probe support structure; an outer shuttle coupled to the z-axis support and to the sample probe support structure, the outer shuttle including at least a first magnet; and an inner shuttle linearly movable within an interior volume of the z-axis support, the inner shuttle including at least a second magnet, the inner shuttle magnetically coupled to the outer shuttle via magnetic interaction between the first and second magnets, and translating linear motion of the inner shuttle to provide linear motion of the sample probe support structure; and the z-axis support includes a tube having a portion disposed between the outer shuttle and the inner shuttle, the tube defining an interior volume through which the inner shuttle passes during linear motion.

[0005] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended for use as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0006] The details are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: In different illustrations in the description and drawings, the same reference numerals may be used to denote similar or identical items. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an autosampler probe rail system for preventing metal particles from being released from an autosampler that may be detected in a sample during sample analysis, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is an isometric view of the autosampler probe rail system of FIG. 1A, showing the autosampler support arm moved to a lower position along the z-axis. [Figure 1C]FIG. 1B is an isometric view of the autosampler probe rail system of FIG. 1A showing the support arm rotating about the z-axis. [Figure 2] FIG. 1B is a partial cross-sectional side view of the autosampler probe rail system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3] FIG. 1B is a partial isometric view of the inner shuttle of the autosampler probe rail system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 4] 1B is a partial cross-sectional isometric view of the autosampler probe rail system of FIG. 1A showing the magnets supported by the outer shuttle in relation to the magnets supported by the inner shuttle. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 1B is a partial cross-sectional side view of the autosampler probe rail system of FIG. 1A, showing its drive system. [Figure 6] FIG. 1B is a top view of the autosampler probe rail system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 7] FIG. 1B is an isometric view of the support arm of the autosampler probe rail system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 8] FIG. 1B is a partial isometric view of the outer shuttle of the autosampler probe rail system of FIG. 1A according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An automated sampling device, or autosampler, supports a sample probe on a vertical rod and moves the sample probe along or across one or more directions of movement. For example, the sample probe may be coupled to a vertically movable portion of a rod by a probe support arm or other device, thereby moving the probe vertically, thereby moving the probe in and out of sample vessels (e.g., tubes or other containers), rinse vessels, standard chemical containers, diluent containers, etc., on the autosampler deck. In other situations, the rod may be rotated to facilitate movement of the probe about a horizontal plane, allowing the probe to be positioned over other sample vessels and other containers located on the deck.

[0009] Autosamplers may include metallic mechanical or structural parts that move relative to one another to facilitate the movement of one or more probes. As parts begin to wear (e.g., due to repeated friction-based interactions), metal particles may be released into the autosampler deck or into containers located around the probe arm. For example, metal particles may adhere directly to sample containers, probes, or other containers used in the sample preparation process (e.g., rinse containers, standard chemical containers, diluent containers, etc.), thereby introducing contaminants into samples or other fluids. Such contaminants can be detected by analytical instruments, distorting analytical measurements of samples and other fluids by providing unreliable or inaccurate data regarding the contents of fluids introduced for analysis by the probes. Furthermore, metallic mechanical or structural parts may be exposed to harsh chemicals, such as corrosive acids, present on the autosampler deck, which may promote the release of metal particles through normal operation of the autosampler.

[0010] Thus, a system and method for preventing the release of metal particles from an autosampler that may be detected in a sample during sample analysis is disclosed. In one aspect, the system includes an inner shuttle configured to support a sample probe in a magnetically coupled relationship with an outer shuttle. The inner shuttle is enclosed within a tube formed of or coated with a chemically inert material (e.g., a fluoropolymer) to prevent exposure of metallic features to the external environment during operation of the autosampler. The outer shuttle is formed of or coated with a chemically inert material (e.g., a fluoropolymer). The inner shuttle moves within the tube, and its motion is translated to the outer shuttle and the probe support structure via magnetic coupling. In an embodiment, the tube defines surface features (e.g., splines) on its outer surface, and the outer shuttle has corresponding features on its inner surface. The interaction of the surface features of the tube and outer shuttle translates rotational motion of the tube into the outer shuttle, which in turn translates rotational motion into the probe support structure. The autosampler can facilitate multiple planes of motion of the sample probe without risk of exposing metal particles to the sample vessel or other vessels placed on the deck of the autosampler.

[0011] (Example) 1A-8, an autosampler probe rail system ("system 100") for preventing the release of metal particles from an autosampler that may be detected in a sample during sample analysis is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. System 100 generally includes a probe support arm 102, an outer shuttle 104, an inner shuttle 106, and a z-axis support 108. One or more portions of system 100 are formed from or coated with a chemically inert material to prevent exposure of metal components of system 100 to the external environment, thereby preventing the introduction of metal contaminants into sample containers or other liquid containers adjacent to the autosampler. In an embodiment, probe support arm 102, outer shuttle 104, and z-axis support each include a structure formed from or coated with a chemically inert material, for example, a fluoropolymer such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In an embodiment, all exterior surfaces of system 100 comprise chemically inert materials to prevent corrosion of system 100 or damage to other materials of system 100 when exposed to samples present on the deck or when exposed to the external environment.

[0012] The probe support arm 102 includes a probe support 110 that holds a sample probe and associated tubing for withdrawing fluid from or introducing fluid into a sample vessel located adjacent to the system 100, such as on the deck of an autosampler system. The probe support arm 102 is coupled to the outer shuttle 104 (e.g., via a friction-fit interlock, a snap connection, or the like). At the coupling point, the probe support arm 102 and the outer shuttle 104 each define an opening into which the upper portion 112 of the z-axis support 108 can fit to couple the probe support arm 102 and the outer shuttle 104 to the z-axis support 108. For example, the upper portion 112 of the z-axis support 108 has a generally circular shape that corresponds to the generally circular openings in the probe support arm 102 and the outer shuttle 104, respectively. While a generally circular shape is shown, other shapes, including, but not limited to, rectangular, triangular, irregular shapes, and the like, may also be utilized in the system 100. The probe support arm 102 may be held in place relative to the z-axis support 108 via a friction fit between the respective structures and a magnetic coupling between the outer shuttle 104 and an inner shuttle 106 disposed within the z-axis support. In embodiments, the probe support arm 102 and the outer shuttle 104, or portions thereof, may be formed as a unitary structure.

[0013] System 100 controls the positioning of the sample probe held by probe support arm 102 by controlling the positioning of outer shuttle 104 and rotation of z-axis support 108. For example, Figure 1B shows movement of outer shuttle 104 along z-axis support 108 (e.g., along z-axis 114), which moves probe support arm 102 through interaction between outer shuttle 104 and inner shuttle 106. Figure 1C shows rotational movement of probe support arm 102 due to rotation of z-axis support 108, as described further herein.

[0014] Referring to FIG. 2 , a cross-section of a system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The z-axis support 108 is shown having an outer tube 200 defining an interior volume 202, and the inner shuttle 106 is configured to pass through the interior volume 202 and affect vertical movement of the outer shuttle 104. The system 100 can move the inner shuttle 106 within the tube 200 through various mechanisms, including, but not limited to, a linear actuator (e.g., a pneumatic actuator) with a push rod, a splined screw rail, or a combination thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the system 100 includes a splined screw rail 204 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2 through 5 ). The splined screw rail 204 includes a screw 206 disposed along the z-axis 114, with a structural rail 208 disposed around a portion of the screw 206. The structural rail 208 is fixedly attached to a base, and the screw 206 is rotatably coupled within the tube 200. For example, the system 100 can include a first drive (e.g., pulley drive 500 shown in FIG. 5 ) that generates rotational movement of the screw 206 within the tube 200. The inner shuttle 106 includes corresponding threads on an inner surface of the inner shuttle 106 that mate with the threads of the screw 206. When the screw 206 is rotationally driven, the inner shuttle 106 moves vertically along the z-axis 114 within the tube 200 (e.g., through the interior volume 202) via interaction between the respective threads. Alternatively or additionally, the system 100 can include a pneumatic actuator that urges the inner shuttle 106 vertically within the interior volume 202. In an embodiment, the inner shuttle 106 defines one or more openings that correspond to the shape of the structural rails 208, such that the structural rails 208 pass through the openings in the inner shuttle 106 as the inner shuttle 106 moves within the tube 200. For example, in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the inner shuttle 106 has a “C” shaped opening that fits into the “C” shaped structural rail 208 .

[0015] Each of the outer shuttle 104 and the inner shuttle 106 includes one or more magnets magnetically coupled thereto, such that when the inner shuttle 106 is driven along the z-axis 114 (e.g., via operation of the splined screw rail 204 and first drive device, or operation of a pneumatic actuator, etc.), the outer shuttle 104 undergoes corresponding vertical movement along the outer surface of the z-axis support 108. For example, the inner shuttle 106 is shown having two magnets 210 disposed within an outer structure 212 of the inner shuttle 106. The outer structure 212 includes, but is not limited to, a polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) material wrapped around a body structure 214 of the inner shuttle 106. In an embodiment, the body structure 214 defines corresponding threads to mate with the threads of the screw 206. The magnets 210 are shown having a circular or annular shape with a central opening through which the structure of the splined screw rail 204 can pass. For example, the magnets 210 surround the z-axis 114, and the spline screw rail 204 passes through an opening in the magnets 210. The inner shuttle 106 is shown with a spacer structure 216 disposed between the two magnets 210. The outer structure 212 and the body structure 214 can press each magnet 210 against the spacer structure 216 to control the separation between the magnets 210. This maintains a substantially uniform distance between the magnets 210 during operation of the system 100. The magnets 210 are aligned with like poles facing each other (e.g., like poles interfacing with the spacer structure 216). For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the north poles of each magnet 210 face each other, with the spacer structure 216 disposed therebetween, and the south poles oriented away from each other. Alternatively, the south poles of the magnets 210 may face each other and the north poles oriented away from each other.

[0016] The outer shuttle 104 includes corresponding magnets to interact with the magnets 210 of the inner shuttle 106. For example, the outer shuttle 104 is shown having two corresponding magnets 218 held within a body structure 220. Like the inner shuttle 106, the outer shuttle 104 can include a spacer structure 222 disposed between the magnets 218 within the body structure 220. In an embodiment, the body structure 220 includes a top portion 224 coupled to a bottom portion 226, with a cavity defined between the top portion 224 and the bottom portion 226 to accommodate the magnets 218 and the spacer structure 222. The top portion 224 and the bottom portion 226 can be secured together to position the magnets 218 facing the spacer structure 222. The two magnets 218 are aligned with like poles facing each other, and the magnets 218 are positioned with poles opposite to those of the magnets 210 of the adjacent inner shuttle 106. 2, the north pole of magnet 218 faces the south pole of magnet 210 (e.g., with tube 200 disposed therebetween), and the south pole of magnet 218 faces the north pole of magnet 210 (e.g., with tube 200 disposed therebetween). With opposite poles facing magnets 210 and 218, the magnetic field couples inner shuttle 106 to outer shuttle 104 such that linear motion of inner shuttle 106 causes corresponding linear motion of outer shuttle 104. While system 100 is shown with outer shuttle 104 and inner shuttle 106 each having two magnets, system 100 is not limited to having two magnets, and each shuttle may include fewer or more magnets (e.g., depending on the desired attractive force between the respective shuttles).

[0017] In implementations, the tube 200 defines surface features on its outer surface to facilitate rotational motion of the outer shuttle 104 as the tube 200 rotates. For example, the tube 200 is shown having a plurality of splines 300 oriented longitudinally along its outer surface. The outer shuttle 104 includes corresponding features on its inner surface, which can interact with the surface features of the tube 200. For example, the outer shuttle 104 has corresponding splines 302, which can mate with gaps between the splines 300 of the tube 200. The surface features of the tube 200 and the outer shuttle 104 interact to translate rotational motion of the tube 200 into the outer shuttle 104, which in turn translates into the probe support structure 102, causing the probe support structure 102 to rotate about the z-axis 114. In an embodiment, the tube 200 is rotated by operation of a second drive (e.g., pulley drive 502 shown in FIG. 5 ), which generates rotational motion of the tube 200. For example, the system 100 may include a bushing 504 coupled between a fixed drive base 506 and a rotational drive structure 508. The rotational drive structure 508 is coupled to the pulley drive 502, such that operation of the pulley drive 502 causes the rotational drive structure 508 to rotate about the z-axis 114. The tube 200 is coupled to the rotational drive structure 508, such that operation of the pulley drive 502 causes the tube 200 to rotate correspondingly. The rotation of the tube 200 then rotates the outer shuttle 104, which in turn rotates the probe support structure 102, via interaction of corresponding surface features (e.g., splines 300 and 302).

[0018] The outer shuttle 104 can be attached to the z-axis support 108 by positioning the body structure 220 adjacent to the top 112 of the z-axis support 108, with the end 228 of the body structure 220 housing the magnet 218 positioned to correspond to the end 230 of the body structure 214 housing the magnet 210, allowing interaction between the magnetic fields of the inner shuttle 106 and the outer shuttle 104, thereby magnetically coupling the respective shuttles. When the outer shuttle 104 is positioned downward along the z-axis support 108 until the magnet 218 is coupled to the magnet 210, the surface features of the outer shuttle 104 and the tube 200 (e.g., spline 302 and spline 300, respectively) can slide adjacent to one another. In implementations, the system 100 includes a key structure that orients the probe support structure 102 in a predetermined direction when the probe support structure 102 is attached to the z-axis support 108, such that rotation of the tube 200 can provide a specific position for the probe held by the probe support structure 102 as desired. For example, FIG. 6 shows the tube 200 defining a key structure 600 (e.g., a spline having a larger cross-section than the other splines 300). The outer shuttle 104 defines a corresponding key structure 602 (e.g., an opening for receiving the key structure 600). The probe support structure 102 and the outer shuttle 104 can also include corresponding key structures to provide a desired orientation of the probe support structure 102 relative to the tube 200. For example, the outer shuttle 104 is shown including a key structure 604, and the probe support structure 102 includes a corresponding key structure 606 (e.g., an opening for receiving the key structure 604). In implementations, the probe support structure 102 is removably coupled to the outer shuttle 104. This allows different probe support structures 102 to be coupled to the outer shuttle 104. Alternatively or additionally, different outer shuttles can be disposed on the z-axis support 108 to accommodate different styles of probe support structures to the z-axis support (e.g., to facilitate the application of septum-piercing probes, etc.).

[0019] The probe support structure 102 and the outer shuttle 104 may include locking structure for securing the probe support structure 102 relative to the outer shuttle 104. For example, the outer shuttle 104 shown in FIG. 8 defines a groove 800 in an outer surface 802 of the body structure 220. The groove 800 is sized and dimensioned to receive a protrusion 804 on an inner surface 806 of the probe support structure 102 (e.g., shown in FIG. 7 ). Alternatively, or additionally, the probe support structure 102 may define a groove and a corresponding protrusion may be provided on the outer shuttle 104. When the probe support structure 102 is attached to the outer shuttle 104, the protrusion 804 may mate with the groove 800 to provide a lock-fit arrangement between the probe support structure 102 and the outer shuttle 104, securely holding the probe support structure 102 relative to the outer shuttle 104 and the z-axis support 108. For example, the interaction between the groove 800 and the protrusion 804 can prevent the probe support structure 102 from coming off the outer shuttle 104 due to a simple friction fit between the probe support structure 102 and the outer shuttle 104 being overcome by a normal force.

[0020] In an embodiment, the outer shuttle 104 can define segments on the top of the outer shuttle 104 to receive the probe support structure 102. The probe support structure 102 can press against the segments, which can provide a conformal locking of the z-axis support 108 against the tube 200 and provide a secure locking between the outer shuttle 104 and the z-axis support 108. For example, the outer shuttle 104 shown in FIG. 8 includes multiple vertical cuts 808 through a top 810 of the outer shuttle 104, dividing the top 810 into multiple segments 812. When the probe support structure 102 is introduced into the outer shuttle 104, the probe support structure 102 can exert an inward force on the segments 812, which can press against the z-axis support (e.g., against the spline 300) to lock the outer shuttle 104 in place. While FIG. 8 shows the top 810 divided into four segments 812, the disclosure is not limited to such a configuration. For example, the upper portion 810 may be divided into less than four segments 812, more than four segments 812, equal sized segments 812, unequal sized segments, and the like.

[0021] (Conclusion) Although the subject matter has been described in specific language of structural features and / or process operations, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or operations described above. Rather, the specific features and operations described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. a sample probe support structure configured to hold a sample probe and transfer a fluid sample through the sample probe; a z-axis support coupled to the sample probe support structure; an outer shuttle coupled to an outer surface of the z-axis support and coupled to the sample probe support structure; an inner shuttle linearly movable within the interior volume of the z-axis support; Equipped with the inner shuttle is magnetically coupled to the outer shuttle, and linear motion of the inner shuttle is translated to the outer shuttle to provide linear motion of the sample probe support structure. Autosampler system.

2. The z-axis support includes: a tube extending along the z-axis support and defining the interior volume; the tube including a portion disposed between the outer shuttle and the inner shuttle; 2. The autosampler system of claim 1.

3. the tube defining one or more surface features on an exterior surface of the tube; The outer shuttle defines one or more corresponding surface features on an inner surface of the outer shuttle, rotational motion of the tube is translated to the outer shuttle via interaction between one or more of the surface features and one or more of the corresponding surface features; 3. The autosampler system of claim 2.

4. the one or more surface features include one or more splines; The autosampler system according to claim 3 .

5. a drive system coupled to the tube; the drive system provides rotational movement of the tube when the drive system is activated. The autosampler system according to claim 3 .

6. and a second drive system coupled to the inner shuttle to provide the linear movement of the inner shuttle within the interior volume of the tube. The autosampler system according to claim 5 .

7. a drive system coupled to the inner shuttle to provide the linear movement of the inner shuttle within the interior volume of the tube.

2. The autosampler system of claim 1.

8. the inner shuttle includes one or more magnets housed within an outer structure of the inner shuttle; the outer shuttle includes one or more magnets housed within a body structure of the outer shuttle; the one or more magnets of the inner shuttle and the one or more magnets of the outer shuttle are magnetically coupled; 2. The autosampler system of claim 1.

9. the one or more magnets of the inner shuttle include a first magnet vertically spaced from a second magnet via a spacer structure; 9. The autosampler system of claim 8.

10. a first pole of the first magnet and a first pole of the second magnet are each positioned to face the spacer structure; the first pole of the first magnet and the first pole of the second magnet are the same magnetic pole; 10. The autosampler system of claim 9.

11. the one or more magnets of the outer shuttle include a first magnet vertically spaced from a second magnet via a second spacer structure; 10. The autosampler system of claim 9.

12. a first pole of the first magnet of the outer shuttle and a first pole of the second magnet of the outer shuttle are each positioned to face the second spacer structure; the first pole of the first magnet of the outer shuttle and the first pole of the second magnet of the outer shuttle are the same magnetic pole; 12. The autosampler system of claim 11.

13. at least a portion of each of the z-axis support, the outer shuttle, and the sample probe support structure comprises a chemically inert material; 2. The autosampler system of claim 1.

14. an outer surface of the z-axis support defining a key structure; the key structure is configured to mate with a corresponding key structure disposed on an inner surface of the outer shuttle.

2. The autosampler system of claim 1.

15. the outer shuttle defines a second key structure disposed on an outer surface of the outer shuttle; the second key structure is configured to mate with a corresponding second key structure disposed on the sample probe support structure to orient the sample probe support structure relative to the outer shuttle.

15. The autosampler system of claim 14.

16. the outer shuttle defining at least two segments disposed on an upper portion of the outer shuttle; the sample probe support structure provides an opposing inward force to at least two of the segments to press the at least two segments against the z-axis support; 2. The autosampler system of claim 1.

17. the outer shuttle defining a groove in an outer surface of the outer shuttle; the sample probe support structure defines a protrusion on an inner surface of the sample probe support structure; The protrusion is configured to be introduced into the groove.

2. The autosampler system of claim 1.

18. a sample probe support structure configured to hold a sample probe and transfer a fluid sample through the sample probe; a z-axis support coupled to the sample probe support structure; an outer shuttle coupled to an outer surface of the z-axis support and coupled to the sample probe support structure, the outer shuttle including at least a first magnet; an inner shuttle linearly movable within an interior volume of the z-axis support, the inner shuttle including at least a second magnet; Equipped with the inner shuttle is magnetically coupled to the outer shuttle via magnetic interaction between the first magnet and the second magnet, and translates linear motion of the inner shuttle into the outer shuttle to provide linear motion of the sample probe support structure; the z-axis support includes a tube having a portion disposed between the outer shuttle and the inner shuttle, the tube defining the interior volume through which the inner shuttle passes during the linear motion; Autosampler system.

19. the tube defining one or more surface features on an outer surface of the tube and the outer shuttle defining one or more corresponding surface features on an inner surface of the outer shuttle, rotational motion of the tube is translated to the outer shuttle via interaction between one or more of the surface features and one or more of the corresponding surface features; 19. The autosampler system of claim 18.

20. further comprising a first drive system coupled to the inner shuttle to provide the linear movement of the inner shuttle within the interior volume of the tube.

20. The autosampler system of claim 19.

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