System and method for automatic detection of spectrometer sample accessories

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention relates to a subassembly for a sample compartment of a spectrometer. The subassembly includes a sample support adapted to support one or more sample holders for use in the sample compartment. The sample support is associated with one or more magnets. The subassembly further includes a sensor assembly configured to detect the one or more magnets associated with the sample support to identify a mode of operation of the spectrometer corresponding to the sample support.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for auto-detecting a spectrometer sample accessory, a sample compartment sub-assembly for a spectrometer, and a spectrometer having auto-detection capabilities. [Background technology]

[0002] Spectrometers, such as UV-Vis-IR or UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometers, are often packaged with a variety of different sample accessories with sample handling characteristics to handle different types of samples. Typically, different types of samples may require different types of analysis, and therefore different modes of operation using the spectrometer. For example, DNA and protein samples may be analyzed using different quantification methods, including nucleic acid quantification, protein quantification, Lowry, BCA, CBB, Biuret, or UV absorption. Other types of solid and / or liquid samples (i.e., solid and / or liquid samples) may require analysis by measuring absorbance or transmittance at a single wavelength or multiple wavelengths, or by measuring the change in absorbance, transmittance, or energy as a function of time.

[0003] Traditionally, once a sample accessory for handling one or more samples is set up by an operator, the appropriate operating mode of the spectrometer is manually selected each time a new sample accessory setup is used, which is time-consuming and prone to manual handling errors.

[0004] The reference herein to a patent document or any other matter identified as prior art should not be construed as an admission that the document or other matter was known or that the information contained therein was part of the common general knowledge at the priority date of any of the claims. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a sample component subassembly, a spectrometer, and a system and method for determining the operating mode of a spectrometer that overcomes or ameliorates one or more of the above-mentioned drawbacks or problems, or at least provides a useful choice to consumers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a subassembly for a sample compartment of a spectrometer, comprising: a sample support adapted to support one or more sample holders for use within the sample compartment and associated with one or more magnets; a sensor assembly configured to detect one or more magnets associated with the sample support to identify a mode of operation of the spectrometer corresponding to the sample support; and A subassembly is provided comprising:

[0007] Advantageously, the sensor assembly enables automatic detection of one or more magnets to determine a particular type of sample support, a particular setup of sample supports, and / or a particular sample carried by one or more sample holders deployed in a sample compartment of the spectrometer (i.e., one or more of the sample support, the particular setup of sample supports, or the sample compartment of the spectrometer), thereby enabling a processor of the spectrometer to determine a preferred operating mode of the spectrometer. Automatic detection reduces manual operations and results in increased instrument setup efficiency and accuracy.

[0008] In one embodiment, the sensor assembly can include one or more magnetic field sensors that detect one or more magnets. Any suitable type of magnetic field sensor can be used. For example, the magnetic field sensor can include one or more of a Hall effect sensor, a reed contact switch, a semiconductor magnetoresistor, a ferromagnetic magnetoresistor, a magnetic encoder, or a magnetoresistive position sensor. Alternatively, one or more optical sensors can be used in the sensor assembly. In other embodiments, electrical contacts or electromechanical switches can be used in the sensor assembly. In this embodiment, one or more terminals can be provided instead of the one or more magnets. The electrical contacts or electromechanical switches can contact one or more of the terminals to determine the operating mode of the spectrometer.

[0009] The subassembly may further comprise a base mount for attachment to the base of the sample compartment of the spectrometer. The base mount may be associated with a sensor assembly. In particular, the sensor assembly may be attached to the base mount. Alternatively, the sensor assembly may be attached to a wall or floor of the sample compartment.

[0010] The base mount defines an opening that exposes a sensor portion of the sensor assembly, thereby enabling the sensor portion to be aligned with one or more magnets in use to facilitate detection of the one or more magnets by the sensor assembly.

[0011] In use, the sample support may be secured to the base mount via any suitable fastening means, such as clamps, brackets, screws, nuts, rivets, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the sample support may include a mounting magnet that secures the sample support to the base mount.

[0012] One or more magnets can be attached to the underside of the sample support for detection by the sensor assembly, and one or more magnetic field sensors can be positioned such that the position of each magnetic field sensor corresponds to the position of the magnet.

[0013] The magnets may be arranged in any suitable manner, for example, they may be arranged in one or more arrays, rows, and / or columns (i.e., one or more of an array, row, or column), may be aligned or unaligned, or may be arranged in any random configuration.

[0014] The sample support can be associated with a plurality of magnets. The plurality of magnets can be arranged in a line. The subassembly can further include a magnetic keeper that masks one or more of the plurality of magnets to provide a plurality of unique combinations of exposed magnets for detection by the sensor assembly. Each combination can be associated with a particular operating mode of the spectrometer.

[0015] Advantageously, the holder may be arranged to provide a particular combination of exposed magnets associated with a particular mode of operation corresponding to and suitable for analysing a particular sample arranged in a particular way relative to the sample support, thereby enabling automatic detection of the appropriate mode of operation of the spectrometer as soon as a sample support carrying the particular sample(s) is loaded into the sample compartment of the spectrometer.

[0016] The magnetic holder can include a mask defining a plurality of openings. Moving the mask relative to the plurality of magnets can change the combination of magnets exposed through the openings, thereby providing a plurality of unique combinations of exposed magnets. In particular, the movement of the mask can include any one or more of translation, rotation, and flipping of the mask in combination.

[0017] The mask can be of any suitable shape and size. In one embodiment, the mask is a generally rectangular plate. The mask can be made from a ferromagnetic material, such as iron.

[0018] The sensor assembly can be coupled to a spectrometer controller to determine or facilitate the determination of an operating mode of the spectrometer corresponding to the sample support. In particular, when the sensor assembly detects a particular combination of exposed magnets, the sensor assembly generates and transmits a signal to the spectrometer controller. The signal can be any suitable signal. In one embodiment, the signal is a unique binary code corresponding to the unique combination of exposed magnets detected. The controller can determine an operating mode of the spectrometer corresponding to the signal received from the sensor assembly. The controller can communicate the signal to an external processor, which determines the preferred operating mode of the spectrometer.

[0019] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spectrometer comprising a sample compartment subassembly as described herein.

[0020] According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a spectrometer having a sample compartment, comprising: a sample support adapted to support one or more sample holders for use within the sample compartment and associated with one or more magnets; a base mount adapted to attach to a base of a sample compartment of a spectrometer, the base mount having a sensor assembly associated with the base mount configured to detect one or more magnets associated with the sample support so as to identify a mode of operation of the spectrometer corresponding to the sample support; and A spectrometer comprising:

[0021] The spectrometer may include a plurality of sample supports, each adapted to support one or more sample holders holding a particular type of sample and / or to facilitate a particular type of sample analysis (i.e., adapted to support one or more sample holders holding a particular type of sample, or to facilitate a particular type of sample analysis, or both).

[0022] In one embodiment, the spectrometer can be a UV-Vis-IR or UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometer. In another embodiment, the spectrometer can be a laser direct infrared (LDIR) spectrometer. In a further embodiment, the spectrometer can be a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer.

[0023] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for automatically recognizing a sample accessory for a spectrometer, comprising: a plurality of magnets associated with the sample accessory; a sensor assembly mounted within a sample compartment of the spectrometer, the sensor assembly configured to detect the plurality of magnets when a sample accessory is used within the sample compartment to determine a mode in which to operate the spectrometer corresponding to the sample accessory; and A system is provided comprising:

[0024] The system may further include a magnetic holder configured to obscure one or more of the plurality of magnets to provide a plurality of unique combinations of exposed magnets for detection by the sensor assembly, each combination associated with a particular operating mode of the spectrometer.

[0025] The sensor assembly can be configured to generate a unique binary code corresponding to the unique combination of exposed magnets detected by the sensor assembly.

[0026] The system may further include a processor configured to receive the unique binary code, determine an operating mode based on the received unique binary code, and set operating parameters and a data collection method for the spectrometer based on the determined operating mode. The processor may receive the unique binary code via a controller of the spectrometer.

[0027] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for determining an operating mode of a spectrometer, comprising the steps of: providing a sample support for supporting one or more sample holders for use within the sample compartment, the sample support being associated with one or more magnets; detecting the one or more magnets using the sensor assembly to identify a mode of operation of the spectrometer corresponding to the sample support; and A method is provided which includes:

[0028] The method may further include mounting a magnetic holder over the one or more magnets such that a unique combination of the one or more magnets is exposed through one or more openings in the magnetic holder, the unique combination being associated with a particular operating mode of the spectrometer, and detecting the one or more magnets includes detecting the unique combination using the sensor assembly.

[0029] The method may further include moving the magnetic holder relative to the one or more magnets such that different unique combinations of the one or more magnets are exposed through one or more openings in the magnetic holder, the different unique combinations being associated with different operating modes of the spectrometer.

[0030] Moving the magnetic holder relative to the one or more magnets can include one or more of translating, rotating, and / or flipping the magnetic holder.

[0031] The method may further include generating, via the sensor assembly, a unique binary code corresponding to the unique combination of exposed magnets detected by the sensor assembly.

[0032] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for determining an operating mode of a spectrometer, comprising: one or more magnets attached to a sample support, the sample support adapted to support one or more sample holders for use in a sample compartment of the spectrometer; a sensor assembly that detects one or more magnets and generates a signal; a controller receiving the signal and identifying a mode of operation of the spectrometer corresponding to the sample support based on the signal; The present invention provides:

[0033] In order that the invention may be more readily understood and put into practice, one or more preferred embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1A]FIG. 1 illustrates a spectrometer according to one embodiment of the present invention having a sample compartment. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 illustrates a spectrometer according to one embodiment of the present invention having a sample compartment. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 illustrates a sample support subassembly with associated magnets according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1 illustrates a sample support subassembly with associated magnets according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2C] FIG. 1 illustrates a sample support subassembly with associated magnets according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2B shows a magnetic holder associated with the sample support as shown in FIGS. 2A-2D. [Figure 3B] FIG. 2B shows a magnetic holder associated with the sample support as shown in FIGS. 2A-2D. [Figure 3C] FIG. 2B shows a magnetic holder associated with the sample support as shown in FIGS. 2A-2D. [Figure 3D] FIG. 2B shows a magnetic holder associated with the sample support as shown in FIGS. 2A-2D. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 illustrates a base mount for a subassembly with an associated sensor assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1 illustrates a base mount for a subassembly with an associated sensor assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of a subassembly including a sample support and a base mount as shown in FIGS. 2A-3D. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a system for determining an operating mode of a spectrometer according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for determining an operating mode of a spectrometer according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] 1A and 1B show a spectrometer 100 having a sample compartment 102. The sample compartment 102 provides space within the spectrometer for loading one or more samples to be analyzed by the spectrometer 100. As shown more clearly in FIG. 1A, the spectrometer 100 further comprises a base mount 104 adapted to attach to a base portion of the spectrometer 100. As shown more clearly in FIG. 1B, the spectrometer 100 further comprises a sample support 106 adapted to support sample holders 108, 110. While FIG. 1B shows the sample support 106 supporting two sample holders 108, 110, it should be understood that the sample support 106 can be configured to simultaneously support any suitable number of sample holders. Typically, the type and total number of sample holders 108, 110 attached to the sample support 106 can be varied to suit the particular type of analysis being performed within the spectrometer 100.

[0037] The spectrometer 100 may be a UV-Vis-IR or UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometer. Alternatively, the spectrometer 100 may be a laser direct infrared (LDIR) spectrometer or a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer.

[0038] 2A-2C more clearly show the sample support 106 with the sample holders 108, 110 removed. The sample support 106 has a generally rectangular base 112 shaped and sized to fit within the sample compartment 102 of the spectrometer 100. The sample support 106 further includes a handle 114 attached to the base 112 to facilitate movement of the sample support 106 into and out of the sample compartment 102. Typically, the spectrometer 100 can include a number of different sample supports 106 and a number of different sample holders 108, 110 (collectively referred to herein as sample accessories), which can be used in any combination to enable the desired sample analysis to be performed by the spectrometer 100.

[0039] 2B, the sample support 106 provides a plurality of magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d mounted on the underside of the sample support 106. In the particular embodiment shown, the plurality of four magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d are arranged in a row and secured in corresponding recesses in the base 112 of the sample support 106. As will be described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 4A-5, a particular combination of magnets (from the plurality of combinations of magnets) can be detected by a sensor assembly to determine a preferred operating mode of the spectrometer 100.

[0040] To accommodate multiple combinations of magnets, a magnetic holder 202 is provided that obscures one or more of the multiple magnets 200 a, 200 b, 200 c, 200 d. In the particular embodiment shown, the magnetic holder 202 is a generally rectangular mask having multiple openings 204 defined therein. The openings 204 are positioned adjacent the outer edge of the mask and spaced apart along each of the four edges / sides of the mask 202.

[0041] The recess 206 of the sample support 106 is shaped and sized to receive the magnetic holder 202 therein. As shown more clearly in FIG. 2C , when the magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d and the magnetic holder 202 are both secured to the underside of the sample support 106, the magnetic holder 202 is positioned above the array of magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d. One or more of the plurality of magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d are exposed through one or more openings in the magnetic holder 202 when the magnetic holder 202 is positioned above the magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d.

[0042] The apertures are located along each edge of the magnetic holder 202 and are positioned to align with different ones of the plurality of magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d as the magnetic holder 202 is moved relative to the magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d. In particular, the sample support 106 includes markers 208 adjacent the row of magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d to facilitate proper positioning and alignment of the magnetic holder 202 relative to the magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d. For example, when the first side 210 of the magnetic holder 202 is aligned with the marker 208 as shown in FIG. 2C , the opening 218 adjacent to the first side 210 is aligned with one of the magnets 200a, and only the aligned magnet 200a is exposed through the opening 218, while the remaining magnets 200b, 200c, and 200d are covered by the magnetic holder 202. As a result, the magnetic fields of the covered magnets 200b, 200c, and 200d cannot be detected by the magnetic field sensor assembly. In this position, only the magnetic field of the exposed magnet 200a can be detected by the magnetic field sensor assembly. Therefore, the unique combination of exposed magnets detectable by the sensor assembly in this scenario is the single magnet 200a. Upon detecting the unique combination (i.e., the single magnet 200a), the sensor assembly may generate a unique binary code "1000."

[0043] Similarly, when the magnetic holder 202 is rotated so that the second side 216 of the magnetic holder 202 is aligned with the marker 208, the opening corresponding to the second side 216 is aligned with a different one of the magnets 200b, and only the aligned magnet 200b is exposed through the opening 220, while the remaining magnets 200a, 200c, and 200d are covered by the magnetic holder 202. As a result, the magnetic fields of the covered magnets 200a, 200c, and 200d are not detectable by the magnetic field sensor assembly. In this position, only the magnetic field of the exposed magnet 200b is detectable by the magnetic field sensor assembly. Therefore, the unique combination of exposed magnets that can be detected by the sensor assembly in this scenario is the single magnet 200b. Upon detecting the unique combination (i.e., the single magnet 200b), the sensor assembly can generate a unique binary code "0100."

[0044] Further rotating the magnetic holder 202 so that the third side 214 of the magnetic holder 202 is aligned with the marker 208 causes the two openings 222, 224 corresponding to the third side 214 to align with two of the magnets 200a, 200b, such that only the aligned magnets 200a, 200b are exposed through the openings 222, 224, respectively. The remaining magnets 200c, 200d are covered by the magnetic holder 202, such that the magnetic fields of the covered magnets 200c, 200d are no longer detectable by the magnetic field sensor assembly. In this position, only the magnetic fields of the exposed magnets 200a, 200b are detectable by the magnetic field sensor assembly. Therefore, the unique combination of exposed magnets detectable by the sensor assembly in this scenario includes magnets 200a, 200b. Upon detecting the unique combination (ie, magnets 200a, 200b), the sensor assembly may generate a unique binary code "1100."

[0045] Further rotating the magnetic holder 202 so that the fourth side 212 of the magnetic holder 202 is aligned with the marker 208 causes the two openings 226, 228 corresponding to the fourth side 212 to align with two different ones of the magnets 200a, 200c, such that only the aligned magnets 200a, 200c are exposed through the openings 228, 226, respectively. The remaining magnets 200b, 200d are covered by the magnetic holder 202, such that the magnetic fields of the covered magnets 200b, 200d are no longer detectable by the magnetic field sensor assembly. In this position, only the magnetic fields of the exposed magnets 200a, 200c are detectable by the magnetic field sensor assembly. Therefore, the unique combination of exposed magnets detectable by the sensor assembly in this scenario includes magnets 200a, 200c. Upon detecting a unique combination (ie, magnets 200a, 200c), the sensor assembly may generate a unique binary code "1010."

[0046] In the above example, the magnetic holder 202 can be rotated to provide four unique combinations of exposed magnets from the plurality of magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d. The magnetic holder 202 can be flipped and rotated to provide four more unique combinations of exposed magnets. As shown in Figures 3A-3D, multiple magnetic holders 202 can be provided to provide any suitable number of unique combinations of exposed magnets.

[0047] In particular, a close-up view of magnetic holder 202 is shown in Figure 3A. Figure 3B shows the reverse side of magnetic holder 202, where, in use, each of the four respective sides 240, 242, 244, 246 can be aligned with markers 208 to provide four additional unique combinations of exposed magnets.

[0048] A different magnetic holder 300 is shown in Figures 3C and 3D. Figure 3C shows a first face of the magnetic holder 300 with a different number and arrangement of apertures 302 along each of its four sides 304, 306, 308, 310. If the first face of the magnetic holder 300 faces outward when attached to the base 112 of the sample support 106, then in use, when each of the four respective sides 304, 306, 308, 310 is aligned with a marker 208, four additional unique combinations of exposed magnets can be provided.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 3D , the second surface of the magnetic holder 300, opposite the first surface, provides additional options for unique combinations of exposed magnets during use. In particular, when the holder 300 is attached to the base 112 of the sample support 106 with the second surface facing outward, each of the two respective sides 314, 316 can be aligned with the markers 208 to provide two additional unique combinations of exposed magnets. Side 306 provides the same combination of exposed magnets regardless of whether the first or second surface of the holder 300 faces outward when attached to the sample support 106. Similarly, side 308 provides the same combination of exposed magnets regardless of whether the first or second surface of the holder 300 faces outward when attached to the sample support 106.

[0050] In other embodiments, five or more magnets may be provided by the sample support 106, allowing for a greater number of unique combinations when installed with the magnetic holders, and may allow for a wider range of operating modes of the spectrometer to be selected, if desired.

[0051] 4A , the spectrometer 100 further comprises a sensor assembly 400 configured to detect one or more magnets 200 a, 200 b, 200 c, 200 d associated with the sample support 106 and identify a mode of operation of the spectrometer 100 corresponding to the sample support 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor assembly 400 comprises multiple magnetic field sensors 402 a, 402 b, 402 c, 402 d. In particular, the sensor assembly 400 comprises four magnetic field sensors 402 a, 402 b, 402 c, 402 d that detect different combinations of exposed magnets provided by the interaction between the magnetic mask 202 and the magnets 200 a, 200 b, 200 c, 200 d attached to the underside of the sample support 106.

[0052] Any suitable magnetic field sensors 402a, 402b, 402c, 402d may be used, and in one embodiment, Hall Effect sensors may be used to detect the magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d.

[0053] The sensor assembly 400 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 404. Four magnetic field sensors 402a, 402b, 402c, and 402d are provided by the PCB 404. The PCB 404 is protected and held in place between a cover 406 and a sheet 408. The assembly including the cover 406, PCB 404, and sheet 408 is attached to the underside of a base mount 104. The base mount 104 defines an opening 410 to expose the magnetic field sensors 402a, 402b, 402c, and 402d and facilitate detection of the magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d.

[0054] The underside of cover 406 is shown in Figure 4B. Cover 406 includes a plurality of recesses, each sized and positioned to align with a respective one of magnetic field sensors 402a, 402b, 402c, and 402d. Cover 406 is typically made from a non-magnetic material and serves to protect magnetic field sensors 402a, 402b, 402c, and 402d from the ingress of dust and liquids.

[0055] PCB 404 further includes a port 412 to facilitate a wired connection of PCB 412 to a controller 610 of spectrometer 100, as described in more detail below with reference to Figure 6. Sheet 408 defines an opening 414 to accommodate port 412 and a wired connection from PCB 404 to controller 610.

[0056] In use, the sample support 106 is secured to the base mount 104 via a mounting magnet 116 (see FIGS. 2C and 2B), although it should be understood that any suitable fastening means may be used to secure the sample support 106 to the base mount 104. As shown in FIG. 5, each of the magnetic field sensors 402a, 402b, 402c, and 402d is aligned with a respective one of the magnets 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the magnetic holder 200 covers three of the magnets 200b, 200c, and 200d, with only one of the magnets 200a exposed through the opening 218. In this scenario, only one of the magnetic field sensors 402a in the sensor assembly 400 will detect the presence of a magnetic field. A corresponding unique binary code (i.e., "1000") is generated by the sensor assembly 400 and transmitted to the controller 610.

[0057] A schematic diagram of a system 600 for determining the operating mode of spectrometer 100 is shown in Figure 6. System 600 includes a plurality of magnets 602 mounted on sample support 106. As discussed above with reference to Figures 2B-3D, magnetic holders 604 can be removably mounted on top of magnets 602 to provide multiple unique combinations of exposed magnets 602.

[0058] System 600 further includes a sensor assembly 606 disposed within the sample compartment of spectrometer 100. Sensor assembly 606 may be mounted to base mount 104. Alternatively, sensor assembly 606 may be disposed elsewhere within the spectrometer. For example, sensor assembly 606 may be mounted directly to the floor of the sample compartment.

[0059] The sensor assembly 606 includes a plurality of magnetic field sensors 608. Each magnetic field sensor 608 corresponds to a magnet 602. The magnets 602 and magnetic field sensors 608 are positioned such that each magnet is aligned with a corresponding magnetic field sensor to facilitate detection of the magnetic field associated with each magnet by the corresponding aligned magnetic field sensor 608. As described above, the interaction between the magnetic holder 604 and the magnets 602 provides multiple unique combinations of exposed magnets 602 for detection by the sensor assembly 400.

[0060] The system further includes a controller 610. Upon detecting each unique combination of exposed magnets 602, sensor assembly 606 generates a unique binary code, which is transmitted to controller 610, which determines the appropriate operating mode for spectrometer 100. The determined operating mode is then transmitted from controller 610 to external processor 612. Alternatively, controller 610 may transmit the unique binary code directly to processor 612, which determines the corresponding operating mode for spectrometer 100. External processor 612 is configured to configure and control operation of spectrometer 100 based on the determined operating mode.

[0061] Referring now to FIG. 7, a method 700 for determining the operating mode of spectrometer 100 will be described.

[0062] In practice, spectrometer 100 may have several different types of sample supports 106 and associated sample holders 110 (collectively referred to herein as sample accessories). Sample accessories may be used in any combination to provide a particular setup suitable for analyzing one or more particular types of samples in spectrometer 100. Each sample accessory may have different sample handling characteristics. For example, different sample accessories may be adapted to handle solids and / or liquids (i.e., solids, liquids, or both) for measurement by a UV-Vis-IR spectrometer in either transmission or reflection mode.

[0063] In step 702, the operator sets up the sample accessory by selecting a particular sample support 106 and one or more sample holders 110 to attach to the sample support 106.

[0064] In step 704, the operator selects the appropriate magnetic holder 202 for use with the sample accessory. As shown in Figures 3A-3C, each side of the magnetic holder 202 is numbered, with each number associated with a particular mode of operation, allowing the operator to determine the appropriate side of the holder 202 to align with the marker 208, enabling automatic detection of the desired mode of operation.

[0065] In step 706, the operator sets up the sample accessory for a particular sample analysis. To do so, the operator moves the magnetic holder 202 so that the relevant edge / side of the holder 202 aligns with the marker 208 on the sample holder 106 to provide the desired mode of operation. Once the magnetic holder 202 is properly aligned and secured in place, the configured sample accessory is loaded into the sample compartment 102. The mounting magnet 116 secures the sample support 106 to the base mount 104 within the sample compartment 102.

[0066] In step 708, the sensor assembly 400 detects the unique combination of exposed magnets from the sample accessory and generates a unique binary code that is transmitted to the controller 610. For example, for each magnetic field sensor 608 that detects the presence of a magnetic field from a corresponding magnet 602, the sensor assembly 400 generates a binary "1" corresponding to that magnetic field sensor 608. Otherwise, the sensor assembly 400 generates a binary "0" for that magnetic field sensor. The combination of binary numbers from each of the magnetic field sensors 608 provides a unique binary code that is transmitted to the controller 610.

[0067] In step 710, controller 610 (e.g., a microprocessor) receives the binary code and transmits the binary code to processor 612. Typically, processor 612 includes specialized software applications for setting and controlling the operating parameters of spectrometer 100 and collecting photometric data from spectrometer 100. Processor 612 determines the operating mode corresponding to the received unique binary code. A look-up table having combinations of unique binary codes and their corresponding operating modes can be stored in memory. When processor 612 receives the unique binary code from sensor assembly 400, processor 612 can determine the corresponding operating mode of spectrometer 100 based on the look-up table.

[0068] When a sample accessory is removed and replaced with a new sample accessory associated with a different unique binary code, the detection of the new unique combination of magnets by the sensor assembly 400 and the generation of a new code automatically triggers a new mode of operation in which different operating parameters and data collection methods can be set by the processor 612. This reduces manual setup and calibration by the operator, thereby reducing operation time and manual handling errors.

[0069] In practice, the magnetic holder 202 may be preconfigured to provide a particular unique combination of exposed magnets, for example, if the associated sample support 106 is intended for a particular mode of operation when used within the spectrometer 100. In other cases, an operator may set a particular mode of operation by moving the magnetic holder 202 as described herein.

[0070] [interpretation] The specification, including the claims, is intended to be interpreted as follows:

[0071] The embodiments or examples described herein are intended to illustrate the present invention without limiting the scope of the invention. The present invention can be implemented with various modifications and additions that will readily occur to those skilled in the art. It is therefore understood that the scope of the present invention is not limited to the exact configuration and operation described or shown, but is limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

[0072] The mere disclosure of a method step or product element within this specification should not be construed as essential to the invention claimed herein unless expressly stated as such or explicitly recited in the claims.

[0073] The terms in the claims have the broadest meaning that would be given to them by a person skilled in the art as of the relevant date.

[0074] The terms "a" and "an" mean "one or more" unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0075] Neither the title nor the Abstract of this application should be construed in any way as limiting the scope of the claimed invention.

[0076] The preamble of a claim may state a purpose, benefit, or possible use of the claimed invention, but may not limit the claimed invention to having only that purpose, benefit, or possible use.

[0077] It should be noted that terms of degree, such as "generally," "substantially," "about," and "approximately," as used herein, refer to a reasonable amount of deviation from the modified term such that the end result is not significantly altered. These terms of degree should be interpreted as including deviations from the modified term if such deviations do not negate the meaning of the term they modify.

[0078] In this specification, including the claims, the term "comprise" and variations of the term such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used to mean "including but not limited to," unless expressly specified otherwise or unless the context or usage requires an exclusive interpretation of the term.

[0079] Additionally, the recitation herein of any numerical range by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.90, 4, and 5). It is also understood that all numbers and fractions thereof are presumed to be modified by the term "about," which means a variation of the referenced number by a certain amount, unless the ultimate result would be significantly changed.

[0080] As used herein, the term "and / or" is intended to represent an inclusive "or." That is, "X and / or Y" is intended to mean, for example, X or Y or both. As a further example, "X, Y, and / or Z" is intended to mean X or Y or Z, or any combination thereof.

[0081] The disclosure of any document referenced herein is incorporated by reference into this patent application as part of this disclosure, but solely for documentary description and enablement purposes, and should in no way be used to limit, define, or otherwise interpret any term of this application, which necessarily provides an ascertainable meaning even without such incorporation by reference. Any incorporation by reference does not in itself endorse or approve any statement, opinion, or argument contained in any incorporated document.

Claims

1. a sample support adapted to support one or more sample holders for use within the sample compartment and associated with one or more magnets; a sensor assembly configured to detect the one or more magnets associated with the sample support to identify a mode of operation of the spectrometer corresponding to the sample support; 1. A subassembly for a sample compartment of a spectrometer, comprising:

2. The subassembly of claim 1 , wherein the sensor assembly comprises one or more magnetic field sensors that detect the one or more magnets.

3. 3. The subassembly of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a base mount associated with the sensor assembly adapted to mount to a base of the sample compartment of the spectrometer.

4. 4. The subassembly of claim 3, wherein the base mount defines an opening exposing a sensor portion of the sensor assembly such that, in use, the sensor portion is aligned with the one or more magnets to facilitate detection of the one or more magnets by the sensor assembly.

5. 5. The subassembly of claim 3 or 4, wherein the sample support comprises a mounting magnet that secures the sample support to the base mount.

6. A subassembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the one or more magnets are mounted on an underside of the sample support for detection by the sensor assembly.

7. The subassembly of claim 2 , wherein the one or more magnetic field sensors are positioned such that the position of each magnetic field sensor corresponds to the position of a magnet.

8. 8. The subassembly of claim 1, wherein the sample support is associated with a plurality of magnets, and the subassembly further comprises a magnetic holder that obscures one or more of the plurality of magnets to provide a plurality of unique combinations of exposed magnets for detection by the sensor assembly, each combination being associated with a particular operating mode of the spectrometer.

9. 9. The subassembly of claim 8, wherein the magnetic retainer includes a mask defining a plurality of openings, and wherein moving the mask relative to the plurality of magnets changes the combination of magnets exposed through the openings, thereby providing a plurality of unique combinations of exposed magnets.

10. The subassembly of claim 9 , wherein the movement of the mask includes rotation of the mask and inversion of the mask.

11. A subassembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the sensor assembly is coupled to a controller of the spectrometer to determine an operating mode of the spectrometer corresponding to the sample support.

12. A spectrometer comprising a subassembly for a sample compartment according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. a sample support adapted to support one or more sample holders for use within the sample compartment and associated with one or more magnets; a base mount adapted to attach to a base of the sample compartment of a spectrometer, the base mount having a sensor assembly associated with the base mount that detects the one or more magnets associated with the sample support to identify a mode in which to operate the spectrometer corresponding to the sample support; and 1. A spectrometer having a sample compartment comprising:

14. The spectrometer of claim 13 , wherein the sensor assembly comprises one or more magnetic field sensors that detect the one or more magnets.

15. 15. The spectrometer of claim 13 or 14, wherein the base mount defines an opening that exposes a sensor portion of the sensor assembly such that, in use, the sensor portion is aligned with the one or more magnets to facilitate detection of the one or more magnets by the sensor assembly.

16. A spectrometer according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the sample support comprises a mounting magnet which, in use, secures the sample support to the base mount.

17. A spectrometer according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the one or more magnets are mounted to an underside of the sample support for detection by the sensor assembly.

18. 15. The spectrometer of claim 14, wherein the one or more magnetic field sensors are positioned such that the position of each magnetic field sensor corresponds to the position of a magnet.

19. 19. A spectrometer as described in any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the sample support is associated with a plurality of magnets, and the subassembly further comprises a magnetic holder that obscures one or more of the plurality of magnets to provide a plurality of unique combinations of exposed magnets for detection by the sensor assembly, each combination being associated with an operating mode of the spectrometer.

20. 20. The spectrometer of claim 19, wherein the magnetic holder includes a mask defining a plurality of openings, and wherein moving the mask relative to the plurality of magnets changes the combination of magnets exposed through the openings, thereby providing a plurality of unique combinations of exposed magnets.

21. 21. The spectrometer of claim 20, wherein the movement of the mask includes rotation of the mask and inversion of the mask.

22. A spectrometer according to any one of claims 13 to 21, wherein the sensor assembly is coupled to a controller which determines an operating mode of the spectrometer corresponding to the sample support.

23. The spectrometer of any one of claims 13 to 22, wherein the spectrometer is a UV-Vis-IR spectrophotometer.

24. a plurality of magnets associated with the sample accessory; a sensor assembly mounted within a sample compartment of a spectrometer, the sensor assembly configured to detect the plurality of magnets when the sample accessory is used within the sample compartment to determine a mode in which to operate the spectrometer corresponding to the sample accessory; A system for automatically recognizing a sample accessory of a spectrometer, comprising:

25. 25. The system of claim 24, further comprising a magnetic holder configured to obscure one or more of the plurality of magnets to provide a plurality of unique combinations of exposed magnets for detection by the sensor assembly, each combination being associated with a particular operating mode of the spectrometer.

26. 26. The system of claim 25, wherein the sensor assembly is configured to generate a unique binary code corresponding to a unique combination of exposed magnets detected by the sensor assembly.

27. The method further comprises: receiving the unique binary code; determining an operational mode based on the received unique binary code; setting operating parameters and data collection methods for the spectrometer based on the determined operating mode; 27. The system of claim 26, configured to:

28. providing a sample support for supporting one or more sample holders for use within the sample compartment, the sample support being associated with one or more magnets; detecting the one or more magnets using a sensor assembly to identify a mode of operation of a spectrometer corresponding to the sample support; A method for determining an operating mode of a spectrometer, comprising:

29. mounting a magnetic holder over the one or more magnets such that a unique combination of the one or more magnets is exposed through one or more openings in the magnetic holder, the unique combination being associated with a particular operating mode of the spectrometer; 30. The method of claim 28, wherein detecting the one or more magnets comprises detecting the unique combination using the sensor assembly.

30. 30. The method of claim 29, further comprising moving the magnetic holder relative to the one or more magnets such that different unique combinations of the one or more magnets are exposed through one or more openings in the magnetic holder, the different unique combinations being associated with different operating modes of the spectrometer.

31. 31. The method of claim 30, wherein moving the magnetic holder relative to the one or more magnets includes one or both of rotating and flipping the magnetic holder.

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