Electro-mechanical analytical chemistry system and method

Abstract

Systems and methods of automating analytical wet chemistry using a series of automated devices and controllers that eliminates the need for human intervention or control are herein disclosed. The embodiments disclosed herein can collect a sample, determine the individual concentrations of one or more molecules or ions in a fluid, either liquid or gas, and then digitally store the results of the analysis to be accessed later or digitally communicated to one or more output devices, a digitally controlled device or controller. The system may be controlled by one or more computer(s), server(s), controller(s), or microcontroller(s). The systems and methods can be applied to determine the concentration of any chemical in any fluid, and then use that information to autonomously control the concentration of the fluid by adding chemicals to the body of fluid.

Description

ELECTRO-MECHANICAL ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY SYSTEM AND METHODINTERNATIONAL PATENT APPLICATION UNDER PATENT COOPERATION TREATYCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0001] This international (PCT) patent application filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Receiving Office (USPTO - RO) is anon-provisional of, and claims benefit of priority to, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 678,003, entitled “Electro-Mechanical Analytical Chemistry Control Method”, which was filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on July 31, 2024 and which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to automated chemistry analysis systems and methods for monitoring and regulating the chemical composition of fluids, including swimming pools, water treatment facilities, industrial process tanks, aquaponic systems, hydroponic systems, and other aquatic or gaseous environments.BACKGROUND

[0003] There are numerous industries and consumer applications where the concentration of a chemical in a fluid, either liquid or gas, needs to be measured and controlled. Two easy-to-grasp consumer examples include swimming pool maintenance and aquarium maintenance. A few commercial or industrial examples include wastewater management, municipal drinking water management, aquaculture, hydroponics, and aquaponics. This short list is not nearly exhaustive of the potential applications for this disclosure. These examples are merely illustrative and not meant to be limiting. The embodiments herein are used for ease of understanding and to quickly show the magnitude of the market applications.

[0004] As an example, the process of maintaining a swimming pool involves adding chemicals to the water to maintain safe swimming conditions. Examples of chemicals that are often added to swimming pool water include chlorine, pH up (bases), such as sodium bicarbonate (Na2COs), andpH down (acids), such as muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate. Chlorine is added to kill microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi in the water. Various chemical compounds are added to water to introduce the chlorine anion, Cl’, including but not limited to chlorine gas, sodium hypochlorite (liquid bleach), calcium hypochlorite, lithium hypochlorite, hydrochloric acid (HC1), and chlorinated isocyanurates, among others. When these molecules are added to water, the chlorine anion, C1-, and its respective cation dissociate. Saltwater pools work in a similar fashion, as the salt, sodium chloride, NaCl, is a salt containing the anion, Cl’. Determining the concentration of different ions in a solution is necessary to maintain a safe swimming environment. If the levels get too low, their ability to control microorganisms falters, and the pool becomes unsafe. If chlorine levels get too high, exposure can cause lung irritation and skin and eye damage, among other potential health problems. The recommended chlorine concentration in swimming pools is usually 1 - 3 parts per million (ppm). If the levels are measured to be less than 1 ppm, chlorine is added. If the chlorine is above 3 ppm, it is generally unsafe to swim in, and it is usually recommended that swimmers abstain from swimming until the chlorine ions react, usually powered by UV radiation, to reform chlorine gas, Ch, and bubble out of solution, thereby lowering the chlorine concentration. For safety reasons, it is necessary to regularly measure and adjust the chlorine levels in a swimming pool.

[0005] The current solution is for a human to physically take a sample of water from the swimming pool and perform one of several forms of wet chemistry using colorimetric indicators. The two most popular forms are test strips and wet chemistry test kits. Test strips usually have several chemical compounds adhered to them, often in a series of square patterns. While the exact arrangement is subject to the manufacturer’s discretion, they typically measure one or more of the following: (1) total hardness, (2) total chlorine, (3) free chlorine, (4) pH, (5) total alkalinity, (6) stabilizer, and (7) cyanuric acid. The test strips typically come in a bottle with a color palette to compare to. The strip is placed in a sample of the water, and the water is allowed to react with the chemicals on the test strip. After a short period of time, the colors of the squares on the test strip are compared to the color palette on the bottle that corresponds to the concentration of each chemical in the solution. Based on the correlated concentration, chemicals, such as chlorine, are added to the water to achieve the desired concentrations.

[0006] Alternatively, wet chemistry test kits are available. With these kits, a sample of the water is obtained for testing, and one of two methods is used depending on the chemical being tested. Inone method, a sample of the solution is added to a container with a predetermined volume, usually quite small (less than 10 ml). Typically, the container is translucent with a fdl line. The solution, in this case aqueous (e.g., liquid), is added to the container until the top reaches the fdl line. Then, a second solution, a chemical reagent, is added to the sample solution in the container in a predetermined quantity. This is typically done using a dropper, and a predetermined number of uniform-volume drops is added to the solution. This optimizes the stoichiometry of the resultant reaction by ensuring the correct ratio of solution to reagent. One of the most common reagents used to test chlorine levels is N, N Diethyl- 1,4 Phenylenediamine Sulfate (DPD). Another common reagent used for pool testing is phenol red (3H-2,1-Benzoxathiole 1,1 -dioxide), which is used to measure pH levels. When DPD is placed in an aqueous solution containing chlorine, it turns varying shades of pink. When phenol red is added to water with a pH between 6.8 and 8.2, the color ranges from yellow to orange to red, respectively. In the case of DPD, it correlates to chlorine concentration, and in the case of phenol red, it correlates to proton concentration. The color is then correlated to a concentration on a color palette similar to that used with the test strip method.

[0007] Another method uses a multistep titration reaction technique. In this method, a fixed volume of a chemical indicator is first added to the fixed volume of the sample solution. Then a titrant is added one uniform-volume drop at a time while continuously mixing and observing the color until there is a sudden change of color in the solution. In this method, the number of added drops required to cause a color change is counted to determine the concentration of the chemical in the solution. This is based on the stoichiometry of the second reaction (ratio of titrant to indicator product in solution). This technique is often used to measure water hardness and alkalinity. Both of these methods are very good at differentiating between different ions in solution. They are ion- selective techniques.

[0008] These methods, practiced by an entire industry of pool maintenance professionals and consumers alike, are used to determine the concentrations of chemicals in pools for the sole purpose of using that information to determine the quantity of chemicals that should be added to the pool to keep it within the desired range. It requires a human to perform and interpret the results.

[0009] In fish rearing, whether that be in large-scale commercial aquaculture or small home aquariums, the same techniques are used to monitor and control the concentrations of ions in solution. In fish rearing, the three most important ions are ammonium (NH4+), nitrite (NO2 ), and nitrate (NO3 ). Fish eat food, and as part of their normal metabolic processes, they release ammonia(NH3) into the water in the form of ammonia gas through respiration from their gills and as solid and liquid waste. The ammonia gas dissolves in the aqueous solution and is protonated to form ammonium ions until the non-ionized ammonia (NH3) and the ionized ammonia, ammonium (NH4+), achieve equilibrium as a function of temperature and pH. Non-ionized ammonia is highly toxic to fish. Two types of naturally occurring bacteria metabolize the ammonia into less toxic ions. Nitrosomonas bacteria convert ammonia into nitrite (NO2'), and Nitrobacter bacteria convert nitrite into nitrate (NO?-), with each being subsequently less, but still, toxic to the fish. In aquaponics, which is the marriage of hydroponics (soilless growing) and aquaculture, nitrate is used as fertilizer by the plants. In all forms of aquaculture and aquaponics, measuring ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels is critical to success. If the concentration of any of these nitrogencontaining ions is allowed to get too high, the entire system will eventually collapse, and everything will die or, at lower levels, cause severe disease or health problems and, at the very least, reduce growth rates.

[0010] Swimming pool maintenance and aquaculture are two common applications of ion concentration monitoring and control that affect millions of people around the world on a daily basis. However, there are numerous industries that require full-time professionals trained in advanced chemistry and chemical engineering techniques to continuously, or at least routinely, monitor ion concentrations in various solutions, both aqueous and non-aqueous.

[0011] While great efforts have been taken by researchers around the world to develop ion- selective electrodes that can continuously measure ion concentrations in solution, the technology still falls short. There are currently no ion-selective electrodes that can independently automate the measurement process. The most common sensors used to monitor the ion concentration of water are electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, and oxidation-reduction (REDOX) potential (ORP), which are ion-non-specific. Both EC and TDS use methods of measuring electrical resistance (or conductivity) across a linear distance of solution. They correlate total ion concentration with resistance, usually measured in Siemens per meter or microSiemens per centimeter (pS / cm). ORP determines the ratio of positive ions (cations) to negative ions (anions) in solution. Neither method provides precise concentrations of specific ions, such as chlorine, ammonia, nitrite, or nitrate. Some ion-specific electrodes have been developed to measure the concentration of certain ions. The number and type are highly limited, and most, if not all, are subject to interference from interfering ions. This means that ion-selective nitratesensors, for example, which measure the concentration of nitrate, a negative ion (anion), are subject to interference from other anions in solution, which will cause the measurements to be inaccurate.

[0012] Great effort and millions of dollars in funding have been invested to develop a digital solution for monitoring ion concentrations in solution. A digital or electrical solution similar to the thermocouple used to digitally measure the temperature of a fluid would allow a computer or microcontroller to measure, record, communicate, and then control a device based on chemical (ion) concentrations of a solution; thereby removing the need for human intervention in managing solutions such as those described above. A digital solution would allow a machine to replace the necessity of human intervention and save consumers and businesses countless dollars.SUMMARY

[0013] Embodiments disclosed herein may have one or more of the following features and / or steps, which alone or in any combination may comprise patentable subject matter, and which overcome the aforementioned drawbacks of systems and methods of the prior art.

[0014] According to embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method for analyzing the chemistry of a body of fluid that enables automated, precise measurement and dispensing of sample and reagent volumes, mixing of the sample and reagent, followed by spectroscopic analysis to determine target analyte concentrations. The method leverages motor- controlled syringe systems for accurate fluid handling and advanced spectrometric techniques for reliable chemical analysis. Thereby eliminating the need for human intervention in both the monitoring and control of chemical concentrations.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, a rack comprising one or more syringe pump assemblies is used to create negative pressure (suction) to draw up a precise amount of sample solution from a preselected location in the body of fluid, such as a swimming pool, fish tank, or the connected piping used to recirculate the fluid for filtering and other purposes. Syringe pump assemblies are connected to a 3 -way stopcock valve coupled to and controlled by a servo motor. Both the servo motor and the stepper motor are controlled by a software program embedded in a microcomputer or microcontroller such as a Raspberry Pi or Arduino-style device. Hereinafter may be referred to as a controller. A second syringe pump assembly with an attached stopcock valve coupled to a servo motor and a fluid reservoir containing a chemical reagent then opens the stopcock and applies suction, allowing a precise quantity of reagent to enter the second syringe pump. Thecontroller then tells the servo motors to change the direction of flow through the valves in both syringe pumps by rotating the stopcocks the appropriate number of degrees to redirect flow to a reaction vessel. The syringe pumps then push the plungers into the syringe bodies, creating positive pressure that expels both the sample solution and the reagent into the reaction vessel (i.e., mixing tank). A DC motor coupled to a motor shaft coupled to an impeller may be instructed by the controller to mix the sample and the reagent. At the bottom of the reaction vessel is a fluid drain made of transparent material such as glass or clear acrylic. A valve is located below the transparent tube and remains closed. The new mixed solution containing both the sample and the reagent remains in the transparent tube. The transparent tube may comprise opaque material, which may be the tube material itself or material covering the tube to ensure that no ambient light can enter the tube. On one side of the tube is a controlled light source, such as an LED light, with precise intensity controls. This light source shines an incident light through the transparent tube to the other side, where a light sensor, also called a photodetector, designed to precisely measure the intensity of the light that passes through the tube is located. The light source, clear tube, light sensor apparatus is referred to as a digital colorimetric spectrometer. The spectrometer records the absorbance of the light through the solution and compares it to a standard curve of varying concentrations. The variation in light absorbance is determined by the Beer-Lambert law. The absorbance value is then mathematically converted into a concentration. The valve below the transparent tube is then opened and allowed to drain into a waste container. The measured ion concentration that is now stored on the controller can be digitally communicated via such methods as email, SMS, or text messages. Alternatively, and of critical importance, this data can be digitally transmitted either directly or through the internet to a connected device, such as a dosing controller, that can add the appropriate amount of chemicals, such as chlorine, to the system. The appropriate type and amount of chemicals may be determined using data representing the volume of water of the system from which the test sample was obtained.

[0016] In embodiments, the invention comprises a system for analyzing the chemistry of a body of fluid comprising a constituent to be measured, without the need for manual calibration, the system comprising: a first syringe pump assembly configured to obtain a fluid sample having a predetermined volume; the first syringe pump assembly further configured to dispense the predetermined volume of said fluid sample to a reaction vessel; at least one second syringe pump assembly in communication with a source of reagent, further configured to dispense apredetermined volume of said reagent into said reaction vessel; the reaction vessel configured to mix the dispensed fluid sample and dispensed reagent in said reaction vessel to create a mixture, wherein the constituent to be measured reacts with the reagent, producing an analyte; a photodetection system configured to measure light intensity transmitted through said mixture from a controlled light source, wherein the measured light intensity is a function of the amount of analyte in the fluid sample; a processing system configured to determine the analyte concentration using the measured light intensity; and a dosing controller configured to send commands to a dosing system for dispensing a desired amount of chemical into the body of fluid.

[0017] The disclosed system provides continuous, real-time monitoring of ion concentrations in fluid systems, enabling automated maintenance of desired chemical parameters without human intervention. Unlike conventional testing methods that require manual sampling and periodic testing, the disclosed system operates continuously by automatically cycling through the sampling, analysis, and response sequence (i.e., dosing) at predetermined intervals or upon detection of concentration changes exceeding specified thresholds. The controller is programmed to maintain target ion concentration ranges by continuously comparing measured values against predetermined setpoints stored in memory. When measured concentrations deviate from the desired range, the system automatically calculates the precise quantity of corrective chemicals required based on the measured concentration differential, the known system volume, and stored chemical dosing algorithms. The dosing controller then transmits dosing instructions to connected chemical dosing equipment, which dispenses the calculated amount of specific chemicals into the fluid system. This closed-loop control system enables real-time correction of chemical imbalances, maintaining optimal fluid chemistry parameters continuously and automatically, thereby eliminating the lag time, human error, and inconsistencies associated with manual testing and chemical adjustment procedures. The system's ability to respond immediately to concentration changes ensures that fluid chemistry remains within specified parameters at all times, providing superior control compared to conventional periodic testing methods. Thus, eliminating the need for human interaction.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and form a part of the specification, illustrate one or more embodiments of the present invention and, together with thedescription, serve to explain the principles of the invention. The drawings are only for the purpose of illustrating exemplary embodiments of the invention and are not to be construed as limiting the invention. In the drawings:

[0019] Fig. 1 illustrates a simplified diagram of a wet analytical chemistry system according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

[0020] Fig. 2 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for analyzing ion concentration in a sample.

[0021] Fig. 3 illustrates an exploded view of a stepper motor-controlled syringe pump according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

[0022] Fig. 4 illustrates an exploded view of a microservo motor coupled to a Luer-lock 3 -way stopcock valve according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

[0023] Fig. 5 illustrates a fully assembled syringe pump with a 3 -way Luer lock valve and microservo motor coupled together with a mechanical assembly according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

[0024] Fig. 6 illustrates a 0.00025 mL (250 nL) glass gas-tight syringe with Luer Lock connection and an inner diameter of 0.029 inches offered for sale by McMaster-Carr;

[0025] Fig. 7 illustrates a glass feedstock bottle with a special neck equipped with a glass crown and threads, a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) faced liner, a metal crown cap with % inch hole, an Oxford Sure / Seal valve-cap, and an overcap with liner;

[0026] Fig. 8 is an ammonia / ammonium equilibrium curve taken from: Reyes Alva, R., Mohr, M., & Zibek, S. (2024). Transmembrane Chemical Absorption Process for Recovering Ammonia as an Organic Fertilizer Using Citric Acid as the Trapping Solution. Membranes, 14(5), 102.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The following documentation provides a detailed description of the invention.

[0028] Although a detailed description as provided in this application contains many specifics for the purposes of illustration, anyone of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that many variations and alterations to the following details are within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following preferred embodiments of the invention are set forth without any loss of generality to, and without imposing limitations upon, the claimed invention. Thus, the scope ofthe invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, and not merely by the preferred examples or embodiments given.

[0029] As used herein, “computer” and “server”, which may be used interchangeably, mean systems and devices that, alone or in combination, are operable to process and execute non- transitory computer-readable and executable instructions. These computer-readable and executable instructions typically reside in, or are stored on, non-transitory computer-readable media that are in data communication with one or more processors, microprocessors, firmware, or controllers, such that the microprocessors, firmware, or controllers, referred to herein generally as “controller(s)”, are able to read and to execute such non-transitory computer-readable and executable instructions. Such a medium may take many forms, including, but not limited to, nonvolatile media and volatile media. The computer (or server) may comprise one or more processors, microprocessors, firmware or controllers, such that the processors / microprocessors may also be able write information to a non-transitory computer readable medium (or media), which may be, but is not necessarily, the same non-transitory computer readable media upon which is stored the non-transitory computer readable and executable instructions. The non-transitory computer readable media (or memory) may be any type of physical media, such as, for example and not by way of limitation, solid state memory, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FLASH- EEPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, or any other medium from which a computer can read. The processors, microprocessors, firmware or controllers of the computer or server may also be in data communication with one or more transceivers, which may be operable to communicate data via wired or wireless data connections to one or more external or remote systems or data communication terminals. Wireless communication includes within its meaning both RF and optical wireless communication. Further, in a computer or server, the processors, microprocessors, firmware, or controllers may also be in data communication with one or more physical displays, such as smartphone displays, computer monitors, or even television displays, and with mouse pads, keyboards. Thus, the computer is able to read and execute non-transitory computer-readable and executable instructions that are stored in non-transitory computer-readable media, and, by executing such non-transitory computer-readable and executable instructions, carry out the functions and method steps of the invention.

[0030] As used herein, a “network” and “data network” includes within its meaning any public network (e.g., the Internet), any private network (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN)), any wired network (e.g., Ethernet network), any wireless network (e.g., an 802.11 network or a Wi-Fi network), any cellular network, routers, hubs, switches, servers, computers, and / or any combination thereof. Although reference will be made to a single network throughout this disclosure, the embodiments described herein may include one or more networks operating as stand-alone networks or in co-operation with each other.

[0031] For purposes of clarity and ease of understanding, the present invention is described herein with reference to a swimming pool as the exemplary body of fluid. However, this embodiment is presented solely by way of example and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the principles, systems, and methods disclosed herein are equally applicable to any context in which the chemical composition, ion concentration, and / or condition of a body of fluid is monitored, measured, analyzed, controlled, and / or adjusted. Such bodies of fluid may include, without limitation, spas, hot tubs, fountains, aquariums, natural or artificial ponds, industrial tanks,, aquaponic systems, hydroponic systems, water storage systems, and any other contained or flowing fluid system. A person of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that this disclosure is also applicable to measuring, analyzing, controlling, and / or adjusting concentrations of liquid organic solvents, such as but not limited to, benzene and hexane. Accordingly, references to a pool throughout this disclosure should be understood merely as illustrative and not restrictive.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, the method comprises the following:

[0033] Beginning with Step S201, obtaining a sample from a pool (i.e., body of fluid). The fluid sample may be obtained from various depths within the pool, including surface samples collected at or near the water surface, subsurface samples obtained at predetermined depths below the surface, or bottom samples.

[0034] The sample collection may be performed using manual sampling techniques, semiautomated systems, or fully automated systems. Manual sampling may involve the use of handheld sampling devices conventionally known in the art. In embodiments, a fluid conduit (e.g., hose, tube, pipe, or channel) may be fluidly connected to a conventional circulating pool pump system. From this location, a sample of the pool can be removed from the recirculating or non-recirculating system. Fully automated sampling systems (further described below) may comprise automatedcollection mechanisms capable of continuous or scheduled sample collection without direct human intervention.

[0035] The sampling system may include various collection vessels such as sterilized bottles, sample containers made of glass, plastic, or other chemically inert materials, vacuum-sealed collection chambers, or specialized sampling devices designed to preserve sample integrity during collection and transport. To ensure a high level of precision in measurement, in embodiments, silanized glass or tubing or microfluidic channels coated on the inside with superhydrophobic nanocoating can be connected to the syringe pump(s) to ensure that the aqueous solution does not adhere to the inner channel or tubing. The sample volume may range from microliters to several liters, with the specific volume determined by the analytical requirements.

[0036] Next, at step S202, measuring and dispensing a predetermined volume of the sample for analysis may be accomplished using a syringe pump assembly controlled by one or more motors under the direction of a controller. The predetermined volume of the fluid sample may then be motivated to a reaction vessel 113.

[0037] The syringe pump assembly may utilize one or more actuating motors, including, but not limited to, stepper motors, servo motors, linear actuators for direct plunger displacement, or any other motor known in the art. The one or more motors may be controlled using a controller which is configured to control various aspects of syringe operation, including plunger withdrawal for sample aspiration, plunger advancement for sample dispensing, and rotational positioning of a valve. In embodiments, the valve may be a three-way valve, which may be, but is not limited to, a three-way stopcock valve.

[0038] The controller may comprise a microprocessor, microcontroller, programmable logic controller (PLC), dedicated control circuitry, or computer-based control system configured to execute predetermined dispensing protocols and monitor system performance. The controller may receive input parameters including target volume settings, dispensing rate specifications, aspiration and dispensing sequences, or real-time feedback from position sensors, pressure sensors, or flow rate monitors. Volume measurement and control may be achieved through various methods, including position-based feedback to correlate plunger position with dispensed volume, pressure monitoring to detect proper sample aspiration and dispensing, weight-based measurement using precision scales to verify dispensed quantities, or optical sensing systems to monitor fluid levels and flow characteristics.

[0039] The predetermined volume may be programmed into the controller as fixed values for standardized analytical procedures or may be variable volumes selectable based on sample concentration or analytical method requirements determined by real-time analysis of sample characteristics or preliminary test results. The dispensing operation may include one or more steps such as initial sample aspiration with controlled suction rates, intermediate sample processing steps including mixing, and final sample dispensing with precise volume delivery to reaction vessels, mixing containers, analytical instruments, and / or sample containers.

[0040] After the first syringe pump precisely measures a sample of the solution and dispenses it to a reaction vessel, the method moves to step S203, wherein a second syringe pump can measure and draw up a predetermined precise volume of reagent and dispense the predetermined volume of reagent to the reaction vessel. Both volumes of sample and reagent may transferred through tubes, pipes, fluid conduit, or channels to a reaction vessel. This may be accomplished by the controller commanding the stepper motor to reverse direction over the same number of steps, causing a positive pressure that expels the fluids from their respective syringes.

[0041] Once in the reaction vessel, the process moves to step S204, wherein both the sample and reagent are mixed in the reaction vessel. Mixing may be accomplished using any structure that operates to mix or agitate the sample and reagent in the reaction vessel. For example, and not meant to be limiting, in embodiments, a DC motor with an impeller submerged in the two fluids contained in the reaction vessel can be used to mix the two fluids. In another embodiment, a magnetic stir bar could be used to mix the two fluids. In another embodiment, a vibrating device could be used to mix the two fluids. In still another embodiment, the two fluids can be forced through microfluidic channels that cause mixing. In all of the methods of mixing, the controller commands the mixing device to perform the action based on a preprogrammed algorithm embedded in the control software. In embodiments, the two fluids could also be added to the mixing chamber and allowed to passively diffuse over sufficient time to ensure adequate mixing.

[0042] Once the sample and the reagent have been mixed, they react with each other, resulting in a visible or nonvisible color change. The change might be visible to the human eye in what is commonly referred to as the visible spectrum, which is approximately 400 - 700 nm, or it could be outside the visible spectrum occurring in the ultraviolet, UV, approximately 100 - 400 nm, or in the infrared (IR) spectrum, approximately 700 nm - 1 pm.

[0043] In one embodiment, the thoroughly mixed solution would be mixed in a funnel-shaped mixing chamber, where the stem of the funnel is placed between the measuring path of a photodetection system, such as but not limited to a spectrophotometer or other spectrometry device. In another embodiment, the mixing chamber could be a small, flat microfluidic chamber situated between the measuring path of the photodetection system.

[0044] Once mixed, the process moves to step S205, wherein the mixed solution is analyzed. The mixed solution containing both the sample and the reagent may be covered with opaque material to ensure that no ambient light can enter the tube. On one side of the tube is a precisely controlled light source capable of emitting incident light at predetermined wavelengths and intensities to optimize analytical accuracy across diverse sample matrices and analyte concentrations. This light source shines an incident light through the clear tube to the other side, where a light sensor, also called a photodetector, designed to precisely measure the intensity of the light that passes through the tube is located. This light source, transparent tube, and light sensor apparatus may be referred to as a digital colorimetric spectrometer. The digital calorimetric spectrometer records the absorbance of the light through the solution and compares it to a standard curve of varying concentrations. The variation in light absorbance is determined by the Beer- Lambert law. The absorbance value is then mathematically converted into an ion concentration.

[0045] In embodiments, a low-cost LED with precise intensity and wavelength control may be placed on one side of the path, and on the other side, a precise light sensor, such as the Adafruit TSL2591 High Dynamic Range Digital Light Sensor- STEMMA QT, would be placed and oriented to detect the incident light transmitted by the LED. In other embodiments, light sensors designed to detect UV or Infrared light or even entire sections of the electromagnetic spectrum, as is customary for commercial spectrometers, could be used.

[0046] In embodiments, the light source comprises a light-emitting diode (LED) with integrated intensity control circuitry, allowing for precise adjustment of luminous output through modulation or current regulation controlled by the controller. The wavelength of light transmitted may be controlled by utilizing a wavelength-specific LED. In embodiments, a broad-spectrum LED light may be used. The LED could emit an incident light in either the UV, visible, or IR spectrum. Embodiments may comprise laser diodes providing light at specific wavelengths for enhanced selectivity, tungsten-halogen lamps offering broad-spectrum illumination with stability for multiwavelength analysis. In further embodiments, the light source may comprise an array of multipleLEDs operating at different wavelengths, enabling sequential or simultaneous multi -wavelength analysis without mechanical filter changes. The controller is programmed to regulate light source parameters including wavelength selection, intensity modulation, pulse duration, and duty cycle to compensate for variations in sample optical density, reagent absorption characteristics, and photodetector sensitivity. Embodiments may incorporate fiber-optic light guides to direct precisely controlled illumination to the measurement chamber while minimizing stray light interference, or tunable light sources with wavelength-selective filters controlled by the controller to provide programmable spectral output optimized for specific analytical protocols.

[0047] In embodiments, more than one light source and more than one light sensor could be used to measure the same or multiple samples, either in parallel or in series. The light source or light sources could all be controlled by the same controller or by multiple controllers that may be networked together.

[0048] Software algorithms for converting light intensity measurements into corresponding analyte concentrations are well known in the art. Such algorithms may utilize reagent-specific databases that characterize optical responses (e.g., absorbance spectra, response curves) of standard reagents across varying analyte concentrations. These software tools are commercially available and form part of standard analytical instrumentation.

[0049] Although the analyzer is illustrated with a processor integrated within the device, it is contemplated that all data processing functions, including but not limited to signal acquisition, conversion, and analyte quantification, may alternatively be executed by a networked computer or server.

[0050] In embodiments, a processor may be independently programmed to perform all data analysis functions internally. In such a configuration, the processor processes the raw light intensity data, computes analyte concentrations using locally stored calibration parameters, and transmits the final results to a computer, a display screen, or output device for presentation to a user. For example, and not meant to be limiting, output device may be a smartphone, tablet computer, laptop computer, desktop computer, smart television, smart watch, or other portable or stationary electronic device capable of receiving and displaying digital information. It should be understood that the foregoing examples of output devices are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as those skilled in the art willrecognize that any electronic device capable of receiving, processing, and displaying digital data may serve as an output device within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0051] The absorbance of the detected light would then be compared against a standard calibration curve fitted to data obtained at a series of different concentrations. This calibration could be linear or nonlinear, depending on the chemicals used. The calibration curve is fitted to an equation that is programmed into the controller. The controller mathematically converts the absorbance of the light into a concentration in desired units, such as parts per million (ppm).

[0052] The controller then saves that value as a variable in its internal memory to be accessed later or transmits it to another device via standard communications methods such as email, SMS, text, or other digital means. This information can be plotted on a visual graph to show variation over time.

[0053] Then, in step S206, the data can also be transmitted via these same methods to another device, such as a dosing controller. The dosing controller can use the concentration value and the total volume of the solution to precisely calculate the exact amount of chemical, such as but not limited to chlorine, that needs to be added to the total volume of the body of fluid to achieve a desired concentration.

[0054] An important input parameter is the volumetric capacity of the pool. This information is necessary to contextualize the measured concentrations of analytes within the sample. If the analytical results indicate that one or more analyte concentrations fall outside of acceptable or recommended ranges for a pool of a specified volume, the dosing controller is configured to calculate and generate a list of corrective chemical treatments.

[0055] After the concentration has been measured, a valve below the reaction vessel can be opened by a command from the controller. This allows the analyzed fluid to exit the device and into a waste container or drain, if environmentally appropriate.

[0056] The process can be repeated either before or after these measurements with a rinsing solution to clean the system.

[0057] The system may further include sample carryover prevention measures such as syringe washing cycles between samples, disposable syringe tips, or complete syringe replacement, or purging sequences using cleaning solvents or inert gases to ensure sample integrity and prevent cross-contamination between successive analytical procedures.

[0058] In accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a system for automatically measuring analyte concentrations in samples obtained from a body of fluid, including but not limited to swimming pools, water treatment facilities, industrial process systems, natural water sources, or any recirculating fluid system with associated piping, filtration equipment, and fluid handling components.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 1, the system comprises a plurality of precision syringe pump assemblies 102 arranged in a rack configuration, wherein each syringe pump assembly is configured to create controlled negative pressure conditions for drawing precise predetermined volumes of sample solution or reagents for use in chemical analysis.

[0060] A first syringe pump assembly 102 is configured to create controlled negative pressure conditions for drawing precise predetermined volumes of sample solution from preselected sampling locations within the body of fluid or from fluidly connected piping systems used for water recirculation, filtration, treatment, or monitoring purposes.

[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more syringe pump assemblies 102 are operatively connected to motor-controlled three-way stopcock valves 111, wherein each valve is coupled to and controlled by a servo motor or stepper motor system capable of precise rotational positioning. The motor control system may include positional feedback sensors to ensure accurate valve positioning and flow path selection. Both the servo motors and stepper motors are controlled by a software program embedded within a controller 104, which may comprise a computer, server, microcomputer, microcontroller, single-board computer such as a Raspberry Pi, Arduino- compatible device, programmable logic controller (PLC), or dedicated embedded control system with appropriate input / output interfaces, communication capabilities, and processing power for coordinating system operations.

[0062] The system further comprises at least one second syringe pump assembly equipped with an attached motor-controlled stopcock valve and servo motor assembly, wherein the at least one second syringe pump is fluidly connected to one or more fluid reservoirs containing chemical reagents 110 (i.e., feedstock bottles) selected for specific analytical procedures. The reagent reservoirs 110 may include temperature-controlled storage systems and / or inert atmosphere protection for oxygen-sensitive reagents. The controller 104 commands the second syringe pump assembly to open the associated stopcock valve and apply controlled suction to draw a precise predetermined quantity of reagent into the syringe chamber, wherein the reagent volume may beselected based on stoichiometric requirements, sample volume, desired analytical sensitivity, or predetermined analytical protocols.

[0063] Following sample and reagent uptake, the controller 104 commands the servo motors to rotate the stopcock valves through predetermined angular displacements to redirect fluid flow paths from the sampling and reagent sources to a mixing or reaction vessel. The syringe pumps then operate in positive displacement mode, wherein motorized plunger advancement creates controlled positive pressure that expels both the sample solution 101 and reagent 110 into the reach on / mixing vessel 113. The reach on / mixing vessel 113 may comprise various configurations, including glass funnels, cylindrical tanks, flow-through mixing chambers, microfluidic mixing devices, or specialized reaction vessels with integrated optical windows for spectroscopic analysis.

[0064] The mixing process may be accomplished through a motor-driven mixing system comprising a DC motor 109 coupled to a drive shaft 108 that actuates a mixing element such as an impeller. The controller 104 controls mixing parameters, including rotational speed, mixing duration, direction changes, and mixing patterns to ensure complete homogenization of sample 101 and reagent components 110. Alternative mixing embodiments may include a magnetic stir bar positioned within the reaction vessel and an external magnetic drive unit.

[0065] The photodetection system (e.g., spectrophotometer) 106 & 114 comprises a measurement chamber positioned at a predetermined location within the reaction vessel, wherein the measurement chamber includes a transparent optical window constructed from materials such as optical glass, quartz, sapphire, or transparent polymers selected for chemical compatibility and optical clarity. The measurement chamber may be integrated into the bottom portion of the reaction vessel or configured as a separate optical measurement cell connected via fluid conduits. A controllable valve system 115 positioned downstream from the optical measurement chamber remains in a closed position during spectroscopic measurements to maintain sample containment within the optical path length.

[0066] The optical measurement system may comprise a controlled illumination source such as a light-emitting diode (LED) 106 or other electromagnetic radiation source with precise intensity control capabilities, wavelength selectivity, and stable output characteristics (described above). The illumination system may include wavelength selection components such as optical filters, monochromators, or tunable light sources to provide specific wavelengths optimized for particular analytes. The light source is positioned to direct incident radiation through the transparentmeasurement chamber to a photodetection system 114 located on the opposite side of the optical path.

[0067] The photodetection system 114 comprises a light sensor or photodetector such as a spectrophotometric detector array configured to precisely measure the intensity of transmitted electromagnetic radiation. The detection system may include signal amplification, filtering, and analog-to-digital conversion capabilities to provide accurate light intensity measurements across the required dynamic range. The photodetection system comprises a controlled light source, transparent measurement chamber, and photodetector, which functions as a digital colorimetric spectrometer or spectrophotometer capable of determining analyte concentrations through optical absorption measurements.

[0068] The measurement chamber may be surrounded by opaque shielding material to prevent ambient light interference and ensure measurement accuracy. The shielding may comprise black anodized aluminum, opaque polymers, light-tight enclosures, or specialized optical baffles designed to eliminate stray light while providing access for optical components and fluid connections.

[0069] The spectroscopic analysis system operates according to Beer-Lambert law principles, wherein the measured absorbance is directly proportional to analyte concentration within the linear measurement range. The controller 104 records light intensity data and compares measured absorbance values to predetermined calibration curves established using standard solutions of known analyte concentrations. The calibration data may be stored in electronic memory and updated through automated calibration procedures using reference standards. Mathematical conversion algorithms convert absorbance measurements into corresponding analyte concentrations using linear regression, polynomial curve fitting, or advanced chemometric techniques.

[0070] Following spectroscopic measurement completion, the downstream valve system 115 opens to allow the analyzed mixture to drain into a waste collection container 116, sample recovery system, or waste treatment apparatus. The waste handling system may include neutralization capabilities, hazardous waste segregation, or sample recovery for additional analyses.

[0071] The controller 104 stores measured analyte concentration data in electronic memory and provides communication capabilities for data transmission through various network communication 113 methods, including cellular networks, email notifications, SMS messaging,text message alerts, wireless communication protocols, ethemet connections, or internet-based cloud services. The communication system enables remote monitoring, data logging, alarm notifications, and integration with dosing controller 117.

[0072] In embodiments, the measured concentration data is digitally transmitted to connected automated dosing systems 117 or chemical feed controllers that automatically add appropriate quantities and types of chemicals, such as chlorine, pH adjusters, alkalinity modifiers, or other water treatment chemicals to the water system (i.e., body of water). The dosing calculations may incorporate system fluid volume data, flow rate information, chemical demand measurements, and predetermined treatment protocols to determine optimal chemical addition rates. This automated feedback control eliminates manual intervention requirements while providing enhanced measurement accuracy, precision, and response time compared to traditional manual testing and chemical adjustment procedures.

[0073] Fig. 3 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a syringe pump apparatus 102. Because the accuracy of the measurement is affected by the precise ratio of chemicals (stoichiometry of the reaction), this method must be very accurate. In embodiments, the syringe pump is controlled by a stepper motor. A syringe pump apparatus 102 may comprise some or all of the following: a syringe 301, a top clamp 302, a slider clamp 303, a slider 304, a syringe pump body 305, fixed alignment linear bearing(s) 306, a lead screw nut 307, at least one guide rod 308, a lead screw 309, a lead screw-stepper motor shaft coupler 310, a stepper motor bracket 311, and a stepper motor 312.

[0074] The stepper motor 312 may be controlled by controller 104, a stepper motor controller connected to a computer or microcontroller, for example, and not meant to be limiting, a Raspberry Pi or Arduino family device. These devices can be programmed using a variety of software programming languages, such as Python or MicroPython, among others. The stepper motor 312 turns a motor shaft coupled to the lead screw 309 a set number of degrees with each step. A common step for stepper motors is a turn of 1.8 degrees. This allows for the stepper motor to turn 360 degrees, or one complete turn, every 200 steps. The pitch of the lead screw 309 determines the linear distance traveled by the attached lead screw nut 307, which is affixed to the plunger of a syringe. A common pitch for lead screws is 2 mm. This allows a syringe plunger to be moved linearly into or out of the syringe body 2 mm for every 200 steps of the stepper motor, whichequates to 10 microns per step. A syringe pump apparatus 102 can be configured to accommodate any size syringe depending on the fluid volume required for the test.

[0075] Referring now to Fig. 4, an exploded view showing a microservo motor 406 coupled to a 3 -way stopcock valve 402, 111 according to certain embodiments of the disclosure. As can be seen, a 3 -way stopcock valve 111 of the system shown in Fig. 1, may comprise some or all of the following: a housing 401, a 3-way luer lock valve 402, a housing top 403, a servo-valve disc 404, a microservo motor hom 405, and a microservo motor 406. The integration of motor-controlled 3 -way stopcock valves into automated dispensing systems enables complex fluid handling protocols. For example, syringe pump apparatus 102 can be connected to a 3 -way valve 111 configured to draw a sample from a sample reservoir 101 through one port, dispense the measured sample volume to a reaction vessel 113 through a second port, and perform cleaning or calibration operations by accessing wash solutions through the third port. Sequential valve positioning allows the system to aspirate a predetermined sample volume, rotate to isolate the sample within the syringe, and then dispense the sample to the reaction vessel 113 while preventing crosscontamination between sample and reagent lines. Multiple 3 -way valves can be arranged in parallel or series configurations to create complex fluid routing networks capable of handling multiple reagents, calibration standards, and wash solutions from a single set of precision pumps. The automated valve control eliminates manual intervention, reduces the risk of operator error, and enables consistent analytical protocols that enhance measurement precision and system throughput while maintaining strict quality control standards.

[0076] Referring now to Fig. 5, an illustration of an assembled syringe pump apparatus 102 comprising the components shown in Figs. 3 & 4. As can be seen, the assembled syringe pump apparatus comprises a syringe 301, a top clamp 302, a slider clamp 303, a slider 304, a syringe pump body 305, fixed alignment linear bearing(s) 306, a lead screw nut 307, at least one guide rod 308, a lead screw 309, a lead screw-stepper motor shaft coupler 310, a stepper motor bracket 311, a stepper motor 312, a housing 401, a 3-way luer lock valve 402, and housing top 403, and servovalve disc 404, a microservo motor hom 405, and a microservo motor 406.

[0077] Fig. 6 shows a glass gas-tight Luer lock syringe, which may be used in syringe pump apparatus 102 currently available for purchase from McMaster-Carr that has an inner diameter of 0.029 inches (0.7336 mm) and an inner radius of 0.3668 mm.

[0078] The volume moved by one step of a syringe this size is equal to L x n x r2, where L = the linear distance moved by one step, 0.01 mm, and r = the inner radius, 0.3668 mm. Therefore, the volume of one step is equal to 0.01 mm x TI X (0.3668 mm)2, which equals 0.004227 mm3, which is equivalent to 4.227 nanoliters. While much larger syringes can be used, the precision of this technique cannot be overstated.

[0079] In addition, some embodiments of the disclosure use gas-tight syringes composed of borosilicate glass and stainless steel with a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or Teflon) seal, which are all chemically inert materials.

[0080] In embodiments, components (as described above) may all be capable of being autoclaved. For example, the syringes would be made of borosilicate glass with stainless steel Luer lock connections. The valves would be made of stainless steel. Reagents could be stored in reusable bottles such as Aldrich SureSeal bottles, shown in Fig. 7. Such a system significantly reduces the risk of handling air or moisture-sensitive reagents.

[0081] For chemical reactions that require inert gas to prevent unintended side reactions, a source of compressed inert gas, or when appropriate, nitrogen gas (N2), can be attached to a gas regulator and distributed via a manifold to the syringe pump valves.

[0082] In embodiments, this method may be used to autonomously calibrate one or more ion- selective electrodes (ISEs). Ion-selective electrodes are an area of ongoing research within the field of electrochemistry. Electrochemistry studies electron movement in an oxidation or reduction reaction at a polarized electrode surface. The analytes are oxidized or reduced at a specific potential, and the current measured is proportional to concentration. Ion-selective electrodes work on the principle that a surface charge shift due to the selective binding of an ion at a sensor-sample interface can be registered potentiometrically. The electrical potential is then correlated to the analyte concentration.

[0083] However, these sensors require frequent calibration using wet chemistry methods, as they are subject to sensor drift, rendering their measurements inaccurate. The method described in this disclosure can be used to autonomously calibrate these ion-selective electrodes without human intervention.

[0084] Traditional calibration approaches for ISEs typically require periodic manual calibration using standard solutions of known ionic strength, a process that is time-consuming, labor- intensive, and often impractical for continuous monitoring applications. The integration ofaccurate spectrometric measurements (as described above) with ISE systems provides an innovative approach to address these calibration challenges by utilizing the inherent stability and accuracy of optical measurement techniques to provide reference standards for electrode calibration.

[0085] The spectrometer system serves as a primary analytical reference that is inherently more stable than electrochemical sensors, as optical measurements are less susceptible to drift phenomena and can be readily verified through calibration standards and quality control procedures. When both spectrometric and ISE measurements are performed on the same sample simultaneously, the spectroscopic results can be used to detect and correct for ISE drift by comparing the electrode response to the optically-determined analyte reference value.

[0086] The calibration correction process involves establishing mathematical relationships between ISE readings and spectrometric reference measurements through regression analysis and statistical modeling techniques. The system continuously monitors the difference between ISE and spectrometric measurements, building a drift correction database that tracks electrode performance over time. When significant deviations are detected between the two measurement methods, the system can automatically apply correction factors to ISE readings or trigger recalibration procedures using the spectrometric data as the reference standard. This approach enables real-time drift compensation that maintains ISE accuracy without requiring manual intervention or interruption of continuous monitoring operations.

[0087] The calibration system may also incorporate predictive algorithms that anticipate drift patterns based on historical data, environmental conditions, and electrode usage patterns, allowing for proactive calibration adjustments before significant measurement errors occur. Quality assurance features may include automated validation procedures that verify calibration accuracy through independent measurement techniques, statistical analysis of measurement precision, and alert systems that notify operators when electrode replacement or maintenance is required. This integrated approach to ISE calibration ensures long-term measurement reliability while minimizing maintenance requirements and maximizing system uptime for critical water chemistry monitoring applications.

[0088] This method can also be used with ion-selective electrodes that require preprocessing of samples. For example, ammonia and ammonium ion selective electrodes cannot actually measure concentrations of ammonia or ammonium. Ammonia (NEE) is a gas dissolved in solution, andammonium (NHZ) is its ionized form. When ammonia (NH3) is introduced into water, a fraction of it is protonated to form ammonium (NHZ), until ammonia and ammonium reach a state of equilibrium as a function of temperature, pH, and salinity.

[0089] Referring to Fig. 7, an ammonia / ammonium equilibrium curve taken from: Reyes Alva, R., Mohr, M., & Zibek, S. (2024). Transmembrane Chemical Absorption Process for Recovering Ammonia as an Organic Fertilizer Using Citric Acid as the Trapping Solution. Membranes, 14(5), 102. These ion-selective electrodes cannot accurately measure either ammonia or ammonium in solution. They can only measure total ammonia nitrogen (TAN). This is accomplished by first preprocessing the sample by either adding a base or an acid to raise or lower the pH, respectively. Changing the pH either causes all of the ammonia to ionize and become ammonium or all of the ammonium to deionize, becoming ammonia. This cannot be achieved without removing the sample from the source and adding the acid or base. The method disclosed here allows this process to be automated.

[0090] Any or all of the functions described herein may be executed by a controller, computer, server, or processor, such as a microprocessor, executing non-transitory computer-readable and executable instructions that are stored in, and retrieved from, physical data storage medium or media, which may be, for example, electronic, magnetic, or optical storage media. The retrieval and execution of such non-transitory computer-readable and executable instructions by a controller, computer, server, or processor, such as a microprocessor, or other electronic components or circuits, may be utilized to carry out any or all of the functions of the system of the invention as described herein.

[0091] Although the above description may contain specific details, they should not be construed as limiting the claims in any way. Other configurations of the described embodiments of the disclosed systems and methods are part of the scope of this disclosure. Any of the described steps, features, and / or elements of the invention may be present in the various embodiments of the invention, in any number and / or order. It is not necessary that each and every embodiment of the invention include each and every step, feature, and / or element described herein.

[0092] It will be appreciated that various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Also, various alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein maybe subsequently made by those skilled in the art, which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system for analyzing the chemistry of a body of fluid comprising a constituent to be measured, without the need for manual calibration, the system comprising: a first syringe pump assembly configured to obtain a fluid sample having a predetermined volume; the first syringe pump assembly further configured to dispense the predetermined volume of said fluid sample to a reaction vessel; at least one second syringe pump assembly in communication with a source of reagent, further configured to dispense a predetermined volume of said reagent into said reaction vessel; the reaction vessel configured to mix the dispensed fluid sample and dispensed reagent in said reaction vessel to create a mixture, wherein the constituent to be measured reacts with the reagent, producing an analyte; a photodetection system configured to measure light intensity transmitted through said mixture from a controlled light source, wherein the measured light intensity is a function of the amount of analyte in the fluid sample; and a processing system configured to determine the analyte concentration using the measured light intensity.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a dosing controller configured to send commands to a dosing system for dispensing a desired amount of chemical into the body of fluid.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the first syringe pump assembly and the at least one second syringe pump assembly are further defined as motor-controlled syringe pump assemblies with a stepper motor operated by a controller.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein each motor-controlled syringe pump assembly includes position feedback sensors configured to provide real-time volume measurement verification.

5. The system of claim 2, wherein the reaction vessel comprises a magnetic stirrer with a magnetic stir bar positioned within the reaction vessel and an external magnetic drive unit.

6. The system of claim 2, wherein the photodetection system is further defined as a sp ectrophotometer .

7. The system of claim 2, wherein the first syringe pump assembly further comprises a motor- controlled three-way stopcock valve for selective fluid routing between the body of fluid sample and the reaction vessel; and wherein the at least one second syringe pump assembly further comprises a motor- controlled three-way stopcock valve for selective fluid routing between the source of reagent and the reaction vessel.

8. The system of claim 2, wherein the processing system is configured to convert the measured light intensity into analyte concentrations using at least one of Beer-Lambert’s Law calculations and predetermined calibration curves.

9. The system of claim 2, wherein said at least one second fluid syringe pump assembly is further defined as a plurality of second fluid pump assemblies, each syringe pump assembly of said plurality of second fluid pump assemblies in communication with a unique reagent reservoir.

10. The system of claim 2, wherein the body of fluid is selected from the group consisting of swimming pools, fish tanks, aquariums, water treatment facilities, industrial process tanks, natural lakes, aquaponic systems, hydroponic systems, and artificial lakes.

11. The system of claim 2, further comprising an automated cleaning system configured to perform wash cycles between analyses to prevent cross-contamination of samples and reagents.

12. A method for analyzing the chemistry of a body of fluid, the method comprising: obtaining a fluid sample having a predetermined volume; dispensing the predetermined volume of said fluid sample to a reaction vessel; dispensing a predetermined volume of said reagent into said reaction vessel;mixing the dispensed fluid sample and dispensed reagent in said reaction vessel to create a mixture, wherein a constituent to be measured reacts with the reagent, producing an analyte; measuring light intensity transmitted through said mixture from a controlled light source, wherein the measured light intensity is a function of the amount of analyte in the fluid sample; and determining the analyte concentration using the measured light intensity.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the body of fluid is selected from the group consisting of swimming pools, fish tanks, aquariums, water treatment facilities, industrial process tanks, natural lakes, and artificial lakes.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein dispensing the predetermined volume of the sample and dispensing the predetermined appropriate volume of reagent are performed using motor-controlled syringe pump assemblies.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the motor-controlled syringe pump assemblies comprise stepper motors controlled by a programmable controller system.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein the mixing of the dispensed sample and dispensed reagent further comprises agitating the mixture using a magnetic stirrer or mechanical agitator.

17. The method of claim 12, wherein measuring light intensity data comprises recording absorbance values at one or more predetermined wavelengths specific to target analytes in the mixture.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein determining analyte concentrations comprises applying Beer-Lambert Law calculations to predetermined calibration curves.

19. The method of claim 12, wherein the reagent is selected based on the specific analyte to be measured and comprises colorimetric reagents or pH-sensitive compounds.

20. The method of claim 12, further comprising automatically adjusting chemical composition of the body of fluid based on the determined analyte concentrations by dispensing a determined amount of chemical into the body of fluid.

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