Systems and methods for automated sampling

Abstract

A resin sampling system having in-line cooling and testing of sampled resin is disclosed. The system includes a controller configured to cause the system to automatically extract and cool resin samples and measure properties of the cooled resin samples, including viscosity and pH. The system may also include automatic extraction of samples for manual sampling. The sampled resin may be reintroduced into a reactor for continued preparation after assessment thereof.

Description

SYSTEMSAND METHODS FOR AUTOMATED SAMPLINGCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and all benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 738,642, filed December 24, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is fully incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In the preparation of many substances, such as resins, properties of the substance must be sampled and tested throughout the preparation process to determine whether the substance is being prepared correctly. For example, properties of the substance, such as viscosity, pH level, and the like need to be tested to ensure that the resulting substance satisfies certain conditional properties. However, conventional sampling and testing of certain substances, such as resins, may subject users to harm and / or toxins.

[0003] The preparation of such substances generally involves heating or otherwise cooking the substance(s). However, the substances are often heated to temperatures greater than those required for testing. For example, standardized chemical and material properties are generally determined at a standardized temperature of 25°C, which is less than the preparation temperature of the substance. Additionally, many properties, such as viscosity, change non-linearly with temperature such that it is difficult to properly calculate or otherwise determine the property at temperatures other than the standardized temperature.

[0004] Conventionally, substances are tested during preparation (e.g., batching, cooking) by manually extracting a portion of the preparing substance into a smaller sampling container, such as a cup. A user then manually removes the sampling container containing the extracted sample from the preparation environment for testing. Generally, the user manually cools the collected sample, such as by submerging the sampling container in an ice bath, and then manually tests the properties of the substance once the substance has achieved the requisite testing temperature. The user may then manually return the collected sample to the reactor, such as by opening a valve in fluid communication with the reactor and pouring the collected sample back into the reactor.

[0005] Conventional sampling and testing of such substances may present and / or create negative issues relating to the health and / or safety of the user and / or the operation of the system. The manual collection, testing, and returning of the samples exposes the user to the heated substances and / or associated fumes, which may be toxic or hazardous. Additionally, the extraction and transport of the collected sample may result in spills and / or burns. Further, conventionalsampling and testing methods may create additional issues, such as the fouling or deterioration of test equipment which may lead to inaccuracies in measurements and / or the creation of gels and / or gellations.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] To further clarify various aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the certain embodiments will be made by reference to various aspects of the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, while the figures can be drawn to scale for some embodiments, the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale for all embodiments. Embodiments and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

[0007] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of resin sampling system according to one embodiment;

[0008] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a resin sampling system according to another embodiment;

[0009] Figure 3 is a front view of the resin sampling system of Figure 2 with a base according to another embodiment;

[0010] Figure 4 is a left-side view of the resin sampling system of Figure 3;

[0011] Figure 5 is a right-side view of the resin sampling system of Figures 3 with the sample intake components and manual sampling components removed for clarity;

[0012] Figures 6A and 6B are various views of an automated sampling container of the resin sampling system of Figure 3 and 5;

[0013] Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view of the automated sampling container of Figure 6A;

[0014] Figure 7B is a cross-sectional view of the automated sampling container of Figure 7 A with a viscometer, an agitator, and a pH meter;

[0015] Figure 8 is a top view of the automated sampling container of Figures 6A and 6B;

[0016] Figure 9 is a front view of a top portion of the automated sampling container of Figures 6 A and 6B with a viscometer and an agitator;

[0017] Figure 10A is a perspective view of an agitator according to one embodiment for use with the resin sampling systems of Figures 2 and 3;

[0018] Figure 10B is a bottom view of the agitator of Figure 10A;

[0019] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a resin sampling system according to another embodiment;

[0020] Figure 12 is a front view of the resin sampling system of Figure 11;

[0021] Figure 13 is a flow chart illustrating the steps of a method of automatically sampling resin; and

[0022] Figure 14 is a flow chart illustrating the steps of a method of sampling resin in a partially automatic manner.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The following description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments of the present disclosure. Other embodiments having different structures and operation do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure. The description and drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any manner.

[0024] “A” and “an” as used herein indicate “at least one” of the item is present; a plurality of such items may be present, when possible. As used herein, “substantially” means “to a considerable degree,” “largely,” or “proximately” as a person skilled in the art in view of the instant disclosure would understand the term. Spatially relative terms, such as “front,” “back,” “inner,” “outer,” “bottom,” “top,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “upper,” “lower,” “side,” “up,” “down,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures.

[0025] “Computer” or “processor,” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, one or more programmed or programmable electronic device or coordinated devices that can store, retrieve, and process data and may be any processing unit, distributed processing configuration, or processor systems. Examples of processor include microprocessors, microcontrollers, central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), tensor processing unit (TPU), floating point units (FPUs), reduced instruction set computing (RISC) processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic circuits (PLCs), etc., in any combination. One or more cores of a single microprocessor and / or multiple microprocessor each having one or more cores can be used to perform the operation as being executed by a processor herein. The processor can also be a processor dedicated to the training of neural networks and other artificial intelligence (Al) systems or the processor itself may be one or more neural networks and / or other Al systems. The processor may be associated with various other circuits thatsupport operation in the processor, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), clocks, decoders, memory controllers, or interrupt controllers, etc. These support circuits may be internal or external to the processor or its associated electronic packaging. The support circuits are in operative communication with the processor. The support circuits are not necessarily shown separate from the processor in block diagrams or drawings.

[0026] “Network interface” or “data interface,” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, any interface or protocol for transmitting and receiving data between electronic devices. The network or data interface can refer to a connection to a computer via a local network or through the internet and can also refer to a connection to a portable device — e.g., a mobile device or a USB thumb drive — via a wired or wireless connection. A network interface can be used to form networks of computers to facilitate distributed and / or remote computing (i.e., cloud-based computing). “Cloud-based computing” means computing that is implemented on a network of computing devices that are remotely connected to the device via a network interface.

[0027] “Signal,” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, one or more electric signals, including analog or digital signals, one or more computer instructions, a bit or bit stream, or the like.

[0028] “Logic,” synonymous with “circuit” as used herein, includes but is not limited to hardware, firmware, software and / or combinations of each to perform a function(s) or action(s). For example, based on a desired application or needs, logic may include a software-controlled microprocessor, discrete logic such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other programmed logic device and / or controller. Logic may also be fully embodied as software.

[0029] “Software,” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, one or more computer readable and / or executable instructions that cause a computer, processor, logic, and / or other electronic device to perform functions, actions, and / or behave in a desired manner. The instruments may be embodied in various forms such as routines, algorithms, modules, or programs including separate applications or code from dynamically linked sources or libraries (DLLs). Software may also be implemented in various forms such as a stand-alone program, a web-based program, a function call, a subroutine, a servlet, an application, an app, an applet (e.g., a Java applet), a plugin, instructions stored in a memory, part of an operating system, or other type of executable instructions or interpreted instructions from which executable instructions are created.

[0030] “Module” or “engine” as used herein will be appreciated as comprising various configurations of computer hardware and / or software implemented to perform operations. In someembodiments, modules or engines as described herein may be represented as instructions operable to be executed by a processor in a processor or memory. In other embodiments, modules or engines as described herein may be represented as instructions read or executed from readable media. A module or engine may operate in either hardware or software according to application specific parameters or user settings. It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that such configurations of hardware and software may vary, but remain operable in substantially similar ways.

[0031] “Data storage device,” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, a device or devices for non-transitory storage of code or data, e.g., a device with a non-transitory computer readable medium. As used herein, “non-transitory computer readable medium” mean any suitable non-transitory computer readable medium for storing code or data, such as a magnetic medium, e.g., fixed disks in external hard drives, fixed disks in internal hard drives, and flexible disks; an optical medium, e.g., CD disk, DVD disk; and other media, e.g., ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash PROM, external memory drives, etc.

[0032] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0033] Described herein are various technologies pertaining to automatically collecting and testing samples of a substance or composition during a preparation procedure. More particularly, the approaches set forth herein allow for in-line sampling and testing of resin (e.g., without physical human interaction) to reduce exposure to hazardous chemicals and fumes, reduce spills or other contaminants, and improve safety for users. The automatic collection and testing of samples may also reduce waste and cleaning. The systems described herein may also be modular in that they can be modified (e.g., components may be added, removed, and / or rearranged) to fit the needs of a given process. Many of the examples set forth herein describe the system and methods as being directed to use with resins. However, it is to be appreciated that the systems and approaches described herein can also be applied to other prepared substances which need to be sampled and tested during the manufacturing process.

[0034] Now turning to Figure 1, a sampling system 100 is schematically illustrated according to one embodiment. The system 100 is configured for sampling during a chemical manufacture or preparation process, such as a batch process, semi-batch process, continuous process; a process stream; or a chemical transfer process. In some embodiments, the system 100 is configured for the sampling of resin during a resin preparing or preparation process. It will be understood that the term “preparing” encompasses the heating, cooking, mixing, reacting, combining, condensing, manufacturing, curing, etc., or any combination thereof, of one or more substances to create one or more resins. Additionally, it will be understood that the term “resin” encompasses resins, resin mixtures, and combinations thereof. While illustrated as a standalone system, it will be understood that the resin sampling system 100 may be implemented as part of a larger system, such as in a production assembly. Further, while the system 100 is described herein as being operable for the sampling of resin during a resin preparation process, it will be understood that the system 100 is not limited to the sampling of resin and may be utilized in any other chemical manufacture or preparation process, process stream, or transfer process, such as the preparation and / or storage of any adhesive, epoxy, or other chemical compound or composition which requires sampling.

[0035] The system 100 may include a reactor 102 for preparing resin. The reactor 102 may be any suitable container for the preparation, processing, and / or storage of resin or similar chemical composition, such as a chemical processing unit used in a plant-scale chemical process. The reactor 102 may be configured to prepare any suitable resin, such as formaldehyde-based resins (e.g., urea-formaldehyde resins, phenol-formaldehyde resin), adhesive resins, adhesive binders, polyvinyl ester resin, and the like. The reactor 102 defines a reaction chamber in which one or more substances, mixtures, compounds, and / or other materials may be introduced to prepare one or more resins and / or resin mixtures. The reactor 102 includes an outlet 104 in fluid communication with the reaction chamber for dispensing some fluid (e.g., resin and / or resin mixture) from the reaction chamber, such as for sampling during the preparation process. The reactor 102 may also include an inlet 106 in fluid communication with the reaction chamber for receiving one or more fluids (e.g., resins, other substances / compositions, etc.) into the reaction chamber. The reactor 102 may have one or more other inlets and / or outlets, such as an inlet or opening for receiving substances to prepare the resin and an outlet for directing the prepared resin to other portions of a production assembly. The reactor 102 may include one or more sensors, such as a pressure sensor or a temperature sensor, configured to generate outputs in real time or near real-time regarding the operation of the reactor 102. While the system 100 has been described as including a reactor 102, it will be understood that the system 100 may not include a reactor andmay be used in conjunction with a resin preparation reactor instead or may be used in conjunction with another container configured to transfer and / or store a fluid, resin, adhesive, or epoxy, such as a pipe, kettle, or other suitable container.

[0036] Referring now to Figures 1-5, the system 100 includes a sample intake component 110 in fluid communication with the outlet 104 of the reactor 102. The sample intake component 110 may be configured to receive or extract one or more resin samples from the reactor 102 during operation of the reactor 102. The sample intake component 110 may be configured to direct the resin to one or more tanks for sampling of the resin, as described below. The sample intake component 110 has an inlet 112 in fluid communication with the outlet 104 of the reactor 102 such that the inlet 112 of the sample intake component 110 may receive resin from the reactor 102. The sample intake component 110 includes a first outlet 114 in fluid communication with the inlet 112 and configured to direct at least some of the resin received at the inlet 112 to a first location in the system 100. In some embodiments, the sample intake component 110 also includes a second outlet 116 also in fluid communication with the inlet 112 and configured to direct at least some resin received at the inlet 112 to a second location in the system 100. The sample intake component 110 may be configured or otherwise operable to direct or otherwise control the flow of resin received at the inlet 112 to one or both of the first outlet 114 and the second outlet 116, as described below.

[0037] The system 100 includes a first valve 176 disposed between the outlet 104 of the reactor 102 and the inlet 112 of the sample intake component 110. The first valve 176 is configured or otherwise operable to control the flow of resin from the reactor 102 to the sample intake component 110. The first valve 176 may be movable between a closed position which prevents the flow of resin from the reactor 102 to the sample intake component 110 and a fully open position which allows the flow of resin from the reactor 102 to the sample intake component 110. It will be understood that the first valve 176 may be moved to any position between the closed position and the fully opened position, such as 25% open, 50% open, and 75% open, to control the amount of resin received by the sample intake component 110. In some embodiments, the first valve 176 may be autonomously and / or remotely controlled, as described below.

[0038] While the first valve 176 has been described as being separate from the outlet 104 of the reactor 102 and the inlet 112 of the sample intake component 110, it will be understood that the system 100 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the first valve 176 may be integrated into the outlet 104 of the reactor 102 and / or the inlet 112 of the sample intake component 110.

[0039] The sample intake component 110 includes a sampling valve 118 in fluid communication with the inlet 112, the first outlet 114, and the second outlet 116. The sampling valve 118 is operable to receive resin from the inlet 112 and to direct the resin to either or both of the first and second outlets 114, 116. The sampling valve 118 is movable between closed and open positions with respect to both the first and second outlets 114, 116. The sampling valve 118 may have a fully closed position which prevents the flow of resin to the first and second outlets 114, 116, a first open position which allows the flow of resin to the first outlet 114 and prevents the flow of resin to the second outlet 116, a second open position which allows the flow of resin to the second outlet 116 and prevents the flow of resin to the first outlet 114, and a third open position which allows the flow of resin to both the first and second outlets 114, 116. It will be understood that the sampling valve 118 may be moved to any position between the closed position and the first, second, or third open positions, such as 25% open, 50% open, and 75% open, to control the amount of resin directed to the first and / or second outlets 114, 116.

[0040] In some embodiments, the sampling valve 118 is a three-way valve having a body configured to receive resin from the inlet 112 at a single input port and direct the resin to a first output port in fluid communication with the first outlet 114 and / or a second output port in fluid communication with the second outlet 116. The sampling valve 118 may have a directional valve component, such as an L-port with an angled actuator (e.g., 90° or 180° actuator), such as a ball valve, such that the sampling valve 118 may direct resin to the first and / or second outlets 114, 116. However, it will be understood that the sampling valve 118 may have other suitable configurations. The sampling valve 118 may be or otherwise include any suitable means for controlling the flow of resin from the inlet 112 to the first outlet 114 and / or the second outlet 116. For example, the sampling valve 118 may have two butterfly stems disposed within the body of the sampling valve 118 to control the flow of resin to the first and / or second outlets 114, 116. Further, the sampling valve 118 may be configured to include only one open position, such as in embodiments wherein the sample intake component 110 only has one outlet 114.

[0041] In some embodiments, the sampling valve 118 includes or is used in conjunction with an open-closed valve component, such as a butterfly valve, a solenoid valve, a check valve, or a gate valve, configured to control the flow of resin to the directional valve component which directs resin to the first and / or second outlets 114, 116, such as the L-port with actuator. The open-closed type may be upstream of the directional valve component and may be movable between a closed position which prevents the flow of resin from the inlet 112 to the directional valve component and an open position which allows the flow of resin from the inlet 112 to the directional valve component. For example, the open-closed valve component may be moved to the closedposition while the directional valve component is moved into the desired position without the flow of resin to the directional valve component and the open-closed valve component may be moved to the open position when the directional valve component is in the desired position such that resin may flow to the desired outlet 114, 116.

[0042] While the sample intake component 110 has been described as including one inlet 112 and one sampling valve 118, it will be understood that the sample intake component 110 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the sample intake component 110 may include two sampling valves 118 with one of the sampling valves 118 disposed and configured to control the flow of resin to the first outlet 114 and the other sampling valve 118 separately disposed and configured to control resin flow to the second outlet 116. Alternatively, the sample intake component 110 may include a first inlet directly coupled to the first outlet 114 and a second inlet directly coupled to the second outlet 116 with a first sampling valve 118 disposed between the first inlet and the first outlet 114 and a second sampling valve 118 disposed between the second inlet and the second outlet 116. Further, it will be understood that the system 100 may include a single sampling tank in which the sampling valve 118 would be disposed between a single inlet and a single outlet of the sample intake component 110.

[0043] In some embodiments, the system also includes a metering valve 117 disposed between the first valve 176 and the sampling valve 118 and in fluid communication with the first valve 176 and the sampling valve 118. In the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 1, the metering valve 117 is disposed within the sample intake component 110. However, it will be understood that the metering valve 117 may be separate from the sample intake component 110, downstream of the first valve 176 and upstream of the sample intake component 110.

[0044] The metering valve 117 is disposed downstream of the first valve 176 and upstream of the sampling valve 118. The metering valve 117 is movable between open and closed positions with respect to the sampling valve 118. The metering valve 117 may have a fully closed position which prevents the flow of resin from the first valve 176 to the sampling valve 118 and an open position which allows the flow of resin from the first valve 176 to the sampling valve 118. The metering valve 117 may be moved to any position between the closed position and the open position, such as 25% open, 50% open, and 75% open, to control the amount of resin directed to the sampling valve 118. The metering valve 117 may be controlled to meter or stage out resin to the sampling valve 118 before the sampling valve 118 directs the resin to the first and / or second outlets 114, 116, such as to meter out an amount of resin for sampling. In some embodiments, the metering valve 117 is a 90° L-shaped valve. However, it will be understood that the metering valve 117 may be any suitable valve or combination of valves.

[0045] In some embodiments, the metering valve 117 may be moved between the closed and open positions to meter an amount of resin supplied to the sampling valve 118. The metering valve 117 may be moved from the closed position to the open position while the first valve 176 is in the open position and the sampling valve 118 is in the closed position such that a desired amount or volume of resin may be supplied to the sampling valve 118 from the first valve 176. It will be understood that the metering valve 117 may be moved from the closed position to the open position in a variety of ways to meter resin to the sampling valve 118. For example, the metering valve 117 may be moved to the open position for a predetermined amount of time to supply the desired amount of resin or the metering valve 117 may be moved between the open and closed positions until the desired amount of resin is metered to the sampling valve 118. In some embodiments, the first valve 176 is moved to the closed position after resin has been metered to the sampling valve 118 and before the sampling valve 118 is moved to an open position to direct the resin to the first and / or second outlets 114, 116, such as in embodiments in which the reactor 102 in under vacuum.

[0046] The system 100 also includes an automated sampling container 120 in fluid communication with the sample intake component 110. The automated sampling container 120 defines a sampling cavity 122 configured to receive resin from the sample intake component 110 for automatic sampling of the resin. The automated sampling container 120 includes an inlet 124 in fluid communication with the first outlet 114 of the sample intake component 110 and configured to direct resin into the sampling cavity 122. The sampling cavity 122 may be movable between a substantially fluid tight position to receive resin from the sample intake component 110 such that the resin may be sampled and tested within the sampling cavity 122 and an open position such that resin may drain from the sampling cavity 122. The automated sampling container 120 also includes an outlet 126 configured to operably dispose of or dispense (e.g., drain) resin from the sampling cavity 122, such as after the resin therein has been sampled and tested or measured. The sampling cavity 122 may be sized, shaped, and configured to temporarily contain a sufficient amount of resin from the reactor 102 to suitably measure desired properties of the resin as described below. In some embodiments, the sampling cavity 122 has a volume of about 0.5 liters.

[0047] The automated sampling container 120 includes one or more means for cooling or cooling elements 128 configured to cool resin contained in the sampling cavity 122 which may be initially at substantially the same temperature as resin in the reactor 102. The cooling elements 128 may be configured to cool resin contained in the sampling cavity 122 to a predetermined temperature such that properties of the resin can be obtained. For example, the cooling elements 128 may be configured to cool the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122 to about 25°C. The one or more cooling elements 128 may be at least partially disposed within the sampling cavity122, disposed at least partially around the outside of the sampling cavity 122, or disposed both in and around the sampling cavity 122. Further, it will be understood that the cooling elements 128 may be configured to cool resin contained in the sampling cavity 122 to multiple predetermined temperatures, such as to obtain properties of the resin at the different predetermined temperatures.

[0048] While the automated sampling container 120 has been described as including one or more cooling elements 128 for cooling resin contained in the sampling cavity 122, it will be understood that the system 100 may be utilized with resins and / or samples which may not require cooling for sampling purposes. In such embodiments, the resin may be received in the sampling cavity 122 without cooling and the automated sampling container 120 may not include cooling elements 128.

[0049] In some embodiments, the automated sampling container 120 also includes a means for agitating or agitator 130 configured to agitate or otherwise stir resin contained in the sampling cavity 122. The agitator 130 may comprise one or more pieces or components which are configured to move within the sampling cavity 122 to agitate or otherwise move resin disposed in the sampling cavity 122. The agitator 130 may be at least partially disposed in the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122 such that operation of the agitator 130 agitates and further cools the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122. For example, the agitator 130 may include one or more arms, fans, paddles, blades, or the like configured to rotate or otherwise move within the sampling cavity 122 to cool the resin.

[0050] While the automated sampling container 120 has been described as including one agitator 130, it will be understood that the automated sampling container 120 may include any suitable number of agitators 130. For example, the automated sampling container may include two or more agitators 130.

[0051] The automated sampling container 120 also includes one or more sensors configured to generate one or more outputs indicative of one or more properties of the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122. The one or more sensors may be configured to generate outputs continuously or near continuously in real time or near real-time.

[0052] The automated sampling container 120 may include a thermometer 132 configured to generate one or more outputs indicative of the temperature of the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122. The thermometer 132 may be any suitable device or combination of devices for generating one or more outputs indicative of a temperature. For example, the thermometer 132 may be a physical thermometer, a thermocouple, or the like. The thermometer 132 is positioned at least partially within the sampling cavity 122 such that the thermometer 132 may sense thetemperature of resin contained within the sampling cavity 122. For example, the thermometer 132 may be positioned with a sensor of the thermometer 132 disposed within the sampling cavity 122 such that the sensor may be in contact with (e.g., disposed within) resin contained in the sampling cavity 122. The thermometer 132 may generate outputs continuously or near continuously in real time or near real-time. In some embodiments, the automated sampling container 120 includes two or more thermometers 132, such as to measure the temperature of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 at various locations within the sampling cavity 122.

[0053] In some embodiments, the automated sampling container 120 includes a viscometer 134 configured to generate an output indicative of the viscosity of the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122. The viscometer 134 is positioned at least partially within the sampling cavity 122 such that the viscometer 134 may sense the viscosity of the resin contained within the sampling cavity 122. For example, the viscometer 134 may be positioned with a sensor of the viscometer 134 disposed within the sampling cavity 122 such that the sensor may be in contact with (e.g., disposed within) resin contained within the sampling cavity 122. The viscometer 134 may generate outputs continuously or near continuously in real time or near real-time.

[0054] While the automated sampling container 120 has been described as including one viscometer 134, it will be understood that the automated sampling container 120 may include any suitable number of viscometers 134. For example, the automated sampling container 120 may include two or more viscometers 134, such as to measure the viscosity of the resin at multiple locations within the sampling cavity 122.

[0055] The automated sampling container 120 may optionally include a pH meter 136 configured to generate one or more outputs indicative of the pH values of the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122. The pH meter 136 is positioned at least partially within the sampling cavity 122 such that the pH meter 136 may sense the pH of the resin contained within the sampling cavity 122. For example, the pH meter 136 may be positioned with a sensor of the pH meter 136 disposed within the sampling cavity 122 such that the sensor may be in contact with (e.g., disposed within) resin contained within the sampling cavity 122. The pH meter 136 may generate outputs continuously or near continuously in real time or near real-time. The pH meter 136 may be configured to withstand immersion within the heated resin received from the reactor 102. In some embodiments, the pH meter 136 comprises a sensor containing glass.

[0056] While the automated sampling container 120 has been described as including one pH meter 136, it will be understood that the automated sampling container 120 may include any suitable number of pH meters 136. For example, the automated sampling container 120 mayinclude two or more pH meters 136, such as to measure the pH of the resin at multiple locations within the sampling cavity 122.

[0057] While the automated sampling container 120 has been described as including a thermometer 132, a viscometer 134, and a pH meter 136, it will be understood that the automated sampling container 120 may include one or more other sensors, such as based upon the resin being sampled. For example, the automated sampling container 120 may include a level sensor configured to generate one or more outputs indicative of a level or volume of resin contained in the sampling cavity 122, a camera configured to generate one or more visual or video outputs indicative of the contents of the sampling cavity 122, an alkalinity meter (e.g., titrator) configured to generate one or more outputs indicative of the alkalinity of the resin in the sampling cavity 122, and / or a pressure sensor configured to generate one or more outputs indicative of a pressure of the sampling cavity 122.

[0058] Additionally or alternatively, while the automated sampling container 120 has been described as including a separate thermometer 132, viscometer 134, and pH meter 136, it will be understood that the functions of one or more sensors or components of the automated sampling container 120 may be incorporated into one or more other sensors or components to decrease the number of sensors or components within the automated sampling container 120. For example, in some embodiments, the viscometer 132 is configured to generate one or more outputs indicative of the temperature of the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122 and the automated sampling container 120 may not include a separate thermometer.

[0059] The system 100 may optionally include a manual sampling container 150 also in fluid communication with the sample intake component 110. The manual sampling container 150 defines a sampling chamber 152 configured to receive resin from the sample intake component 110. The sampling chamber 152 may have a volume larger than a volume of resin to be manually sampled, as described below. The sampling chamber 152 has an inlet 154 in fluid communication with the second outlet 116 of the sample intake component 110 and configured to direct resin into the sampling chamber 152. The manual sampling container 150 also includes an outlet 156 configured to dispose of (e.g., drain) resin from the sampling chamber 152.

[0060] The manual sampling container 150 also includes a sampling receptacle 158 operatively disposed within the sampling chamber 152 and configured to receive resin from the sample intake component 110. The sampling receptacle 158 is a device or container which may receive an amount of resin from the sample intake component 110 which may be manually tested, such as by a user. The sampling receptacle may be a substantially cylindrical container with anopen top defining a receiving area which may receive resin from the sample intake component 110. In some embodiments, the sampling receptacle 158 is a cup.

[0061] The sampling receptacle 158 may be placed within the sampling chamber 152 to receive resin from the sample intake component 110 and removed from the sampling chamber 152 after resin has been deposited in the sampling receptacle 158. The manual sampling container 150 may be configured such that resin received at the inlet 154 may be directed into the receiving area of the sampling receptacle 158. After the sampling receptacle 158 has been sufficiently filled with resin, the sampling receptacle 158 may be removed from the sampling chamber 152 for manual testing. For example, the user may remove the sampling receptacle 158, optionally cool the resin with ice (e.g., an ice bath), and manually test the properties of the resin. After the resin has been tested, the user may deposit (e.g., dump) the contents of the sampling receptacle 158 into the bottom of the sampling chamber 152 such that the resin may drain out of the outlet 156 of the manual sampling container 150.

[0062] The inlet 154 of the manual sampling container 150 may be disposed at the top of the sampling chamber 152 and directly above the operatively placed sampling receptacle 158. Resin directed to the manual sampling container 150 from the sample intake component 110 may flow through the inlet and directly into the sampling receptacle 158. It will also be understood that the manual sampling container 150 may include one or more conduits, such as pipes and / or spouts, which direct the fluid from the sample intake component 110 to the sampling receptacle 158.

[0063] The manual sampling container 150 may also include one or more doors configured to operatively enclose the sampling chamber 152. The one or more doors may define one or more sides of the manual sampling container 150 and the doors may be opened such that a user may access the sampling receptacle 158, such as to remove the sampling receptacle 158 from the sampling chamber 152, such as after resin has been deposited within the sampling receptacle 158. For example, the doors may be closed before and during the deposition of resin into the sampling receptacle 158 and may be opened after the resin has been deposited such that the sampling receptacle 158 may be removed from the manual sampling container 150 for testing and returned to the sampling chamber 152 after testing. Depositing resin into the sampling receptacle 158 in an enclosed space may reduce the likelihood that a user is exposed to fumes or injuries. In some embodiments, the manual sampling container 150 includes one or more windows in one or more of the sides of the manual sampling container 150. The windows may be substantially transparent to permit a user to view the contents of the sampling chamber 152, such as while maintaining the sampling chamber 152 in a substantially air and / or fluid tight manner.

[0064] The manual sampling container 150 may also include one or more sensors disposed within the sampling chamber 152, such as to generate outputs indicative of the operation of the manual sampling container 150. The manual sampling container 150 may optionally include a camera configured to generate one or more visual or video outputs indicative of the contents of the sampling chamber 152. The manual sampling container 150 may also include a liquid level sensor disposed within the sampling chamber 152 and configured to generate one or more outputs indicative of an amount of resin contained in the sampling receptacle 158. It will be understood that the sensors of the manual sampling container 150 may be configured to generate outputs continuously or near continuously and in real time or near real-time.

[0065] The system also includes a reserve tank 160 in fluid communication with the automated sampling container 120 and the manual sampling container 150. The reserve tank 160 defines a storage cavity configured to receive and temporarily store resin from the automated sampling container 120 and / or the manual sampling container 150. The reserve tank 160 may also be configured to transfer the resin received from the automated sampling container 120 and / or the manual sampling container 150 back to the reactor 102 such that the resin may be reintroduced into the preparation process.

[0066] The reserve tank 160 includes a first input port 162 fluidly connected to the outlet 126 of the automated sampling container 120. The first input port 162 is configured to receive resin discharged from the automated sampling container 120, such as after measurements of the properties of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 have been obtained. The first input port 162 may be in fluid communication with the storage cavity of the reserve tank 160 such that resin received at the first input port 162 may be temporarily stored in the storage cavity.

[0067] The reserve tank 160 may also include a second input port 164 fluidly connected to the outlet 156 of the manual sampling container 150. The second input port 164 may be configured to receive resin discharged from the manual sampling container 150, such as after measurements of the properties of the resin in the sampling receptacle 158 have been obtained. The second input port 164 may also be in fluid communication with the storage cavity such that resin received at the second input port 164 may be temporarily stored in the storage cavity, such as with resin received from the first input port 162.

[0068] While the system 100 has been described as including a single reserve tank 160 in fluid connection with the outlet 126 of the automated sampling container 120 and the outlet 156 of the manual sampling container 150, it will be understood that the system 100 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the system 100 may include a first reserve tank 160 coupledwith the outlet 126 of the automated sampling container 120 and a second reserve tank 160 coupled with the outlet 156 of the manual sampling container 150.

[0069] The system includes a second valve 178 disposed between the outlet 126 of the automated sampling container 120 and the first input port 162 of the reserve tank 160. The second valve 178 is configured to operatively control the flow of resin from the sampling cavity 122 of the automated sampling container 120 to the storage cavity of the reserve tank 160. The second valve 178 may be movable between a closed position which prevents the flow of resin from the automated sampling container 120 to the reserve tank 160 and a fully open position which allows the flow of resin from the automated sampling container 120 to the reserve tank 160. It will be understood that the second valve 178 may be moved to any position between the closed position and the fully open position, such as 25% open, 50% open, and 75% open, to control the amount of resin dispensed from the sampling cavity 122 to the reserve tank 160. It will be understood that, in the closed position, the second valve 178 may define the base of the sampling cavity 122 such that resin may be contained within the sampling cavity 122. In some embodiments, the second valve 178 may be autonomously and / or remotely controlled, as described below.

[0070] While the second valve 178 has been described as being separate from the outlet 126 of the automated sampling container 120 and the first input port 162 of the reserve tank 160, it will be understood that the system 100 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the second valve 178 may be integrated into the outlet 126 of the automated sampling container 120 and / or the first input port 162 of the reserve tank 160.

[0071] In some embodiments, the system 100 also includes a third valve 180 disposed between the outlet 156 of the manual sampling container 150 and the second input port 164 of the reserve tank 160. The third valve 180 is configured to operatively control the flow of resin from the sampling chamber 152 to the storage cavity of the reserve tank 160. The third valve 180 may be movable between a closed position which prevents the flow of resin from the manual sampling container 150 to the reserve tank 160 and a fully open position which allows the flow of resin from the manual sampling container 150 to the reserve tank 160. It will be understood that the third valve 180 may be moved to any position between the closed position and the fully open position, such as 25% open, 50% open, and 75% open, to control the amount of resin dispensed from the manual sampling container 150 to the reserve tank 160. In some embodiments, the third valve 180 may be autonomously and / or remotely controlled, as described below.

[0072] While the third valve 180 has been described as being separate from the outlet 156 of the manual sampling container 150 and the second input port 164 of the reserve tank 160, it willbe understood that the system 100 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the third valve 180 may be integrated into the outlet 156 of the manual sampling container 150 and / or the second input port 164 of the reserve tank 160.

[0073] The reserve tank 160 also includes an outlet port 170 in fluid communication with the inlet 106 of the reactor 102. The outlet port 170 may be configured to discharge or reintroduce resin stored in the storage cavity back into the reactor 102, such as to permit the resin to be utilized in the preparation process.

[0074] The system 100 may also include a pump 172 in fluid communication with a third inlet 166 of the reserve tank 160. The pump 172 is configured to pump or otherwise move resin contained in the storage cavity of the reserve tank 160 through the outlet port 170 and into the inlet 106 of the reactor 102. In some embodiments, the pump 172 is an air pump. However, it will be understood that the pump 172 may be any suitable pump for moving resin contained in the storage cavity to the reactor 102.

[0075] While the system 100 has been described as including a pump 172 to move resin contained in the storage cavity of the reserve tank 160 to the reactor 102, it will be understood that resin contained in the reserve tank 160 may be transferred to the reactor 102 by other methods. For example, the resin in the reserve tank 160 may be transferred to the reactor 102 via a vacuum or via gravity.

[0076] The system 100 may include a fourth valve 182 disposed between the outlet port 170 of the reserve tank 160 and the inlet 106 of the reactor 102. The fourth valve 182 is configured to operatively control the flow of resin from the reserve tank 160 to the reactor 102. The fourth valve 182 may be movable between a closed position which prevents the flow of resin from the reserve tank 160 to the reactor 102 and a fully open position which permits the flow of resin from the reserve tank 160 to the reactor 102. It will be understood that the fourth valve 182 may be moved to any position between the closed position and the fully open position, such as 25% open, 50% open, and 75% open, to control the flow of resin from the reserve tank 160 to the reactor 102. In some embodiments, the fourth valve 182 may be autonomously and / or remotely controlled, as described below.

[0077] While the fourth valve 182 has been described as being separate from the outlet port 170 of the reserve tank 160 and the inlet 106 of the reactor 102, it will be understood that the system 100 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the fourth valve 182 may be integrated into outlet port 170 of the reserve tank 160 and / or the inlet 106 of the reactor 102.

[0078] While the reactor 102 has been described as including a separate outlet 104 and inlet 106, it will be understood that the system 100 may have other suitable configurations. For example, in some embodiments, the reactor 102 may have a single port which serves as both the outlet 104 and the inlet 106. Both the inlet 112 of the sample intake component 110 and the outlet port 170 of the reserve tank 160 may both be in fluid communication with the single port of the reactor 102. The port of the reactor 102 may be connected to a T-shaped pipe with the first valve 176 and the sample intake component 110 in fluid connection with a first branch of the T-shaped pipe and the fourth valve 182 and the outlet port 170 of the reserve tank 160 in fluid connection with a second branch of the T-shaped pipe.

[0079] While the reserve tank 160 has been described as being configured to reintroduce resin back into the reactor 102, it will be understood that the system 100 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the reserve tank 160 may not be in fluid communication with the reactor 102 such that the reserve tank 160 operates as a storage tank for sampled resin. Alternatively, the system 100 may be configured such that resin is reintroduced to the reactor 102 via the first valve 176 and / or the sample intake component 110. For example, one or more outlets of the reserve tank 160 may be fluidly coupled with the first valve 176 and / or the sample intake component 110 via a return valve 181 (e.g., Figs. 2-3) moveable between a closed position and an open position such that sampled resin may be returned to the reactor 102 via the first valve 176 and / or the sample intake component 110

[0080] In operation, the automated sampling container 120 may be used to automatically sample and test resin during preparation of resin in the reactor 102. For example, the automated sampling container 120 may be used to cool and test resin in an in-line manner such that the resin is not exposed to the environment and / or such that physical human intervention is not required.

[0081] To automatically sample and test resin with the automated sampling container 120, the first valve 176 is moved to the open position (and the metering valve 117 is also moved to the open position) such that resin flows from the outlet 104 of the reactor 102 to the inlet 112 of the sample intake component 110. As discussed above, the metering valve 117 may be moved between the open and closed positions to control the amount of resin delivered to the sampling valve 118. In some embodiments, after a sufficient amount of resin has been delivered to the sample intake component 110, the first valve 176 (and the metering valve 117) is moved to the closed position. It will be understood that the first valve 176 and the metering valve 117 may each be moved between the closed and open positions until a suitable amount of resin (e.g., the amount / volume of resin required for testing) has been supplied to the sample intake component 110. The samplingvalve 118 may then be moved to a position which directs the resin received at the inlet 112 of the sample intake component 110 to the sampling cavity 122 of the automated sampling container 120. The second valve 178 may be closed such that resin may accumulate in the sampling cavity 122 of the automated sampling container 120. The amount the sampling valve 118 is opened relative to the sampling cavity 122 is controlled or otherwise varied during the deposition of resin. For example, the sampling valve 118 may be opened relative to the sampling cavity 122 50%, may be opened 100%, may be opened incrementally (e.g., in 25% increments), and / or the like. It will be understood that the first valve 176 and the sampling valve 118 may be opened, closed, or otherwise varied as many times as needed to substantially fill the sampling cavity 122. After the sampling cavity 122 is sufficiently filled with resin, the first valve 176 and / or the sampling valve 118 may be moved to a closed position such that additional resin is prevented from entering the sampling cavity 122.

[0082] The resin contained in the sampling cavity 122 may be initially at substantially the same temperature as the resin contained in the reactor 102. The cooling element 128 and / or the agitator 130 may be activated and used for in-line cooling of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 to a predetermined temperature, such as about 25°C. The sensors in the sampling cavity 122, such as the thermometer 132, the viscometer 134, and the pH meter 136 may generate outputs regarding the properties of the resin continuously or near continuously in real time or near real-time, such as throughout the sampling and cooling process. When the thermometer 132 (or viscometer 134 or pH meter 136) generates an output indicative of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 being substantially at the predetermined temperature (e.g., 25°C), the outputs generated by the sensors of the automated sampling container 120 (e.g., the viscometer 134 and the pH meter 136) may be obtained for the predetermined temperature. Further, it will be understood that the outputs generated by the sensors of the automated sampling container 120 (e.g., the viscometer 134 and the pH meter 136) may be obtained at multiple temperatures, such as to obtain properties of the resin at the different predetermined temperatures. After the predetermined measurements of the resin have been obtained, the second valve 178 may be moved to the open position such that the resin in the sampling cavity 122 is drained into the reserve tank 160.

[0083] As described above, the system 100 may also be used with resin and / or samples which do not need to be cooled prior to testing. In such embodiments, the cooling element 128 and / or the agitator 130 may not need to be activated for in-line cooling of the resin in the sampling cavity 122. Further, it will be understood that, in such embodiments, the automated sampling container 120 may be utilized without the cooling element 128 and / or the agitator 130, such as inembodiments in which the sample received in the sampling cavity 122 is already substantially at the predetermined temperature.

[0084] After the tested resin has been drained from the automated sampling container 120, the sampling cavity 122 may be cleaned, such as to remove any resin which may remain in the sampling cavity 122 before subsequent testing. To clean the sampling cavity, the first valve 176, the optional metering valve 117, the sampling valve 118, and the second valve 178 may be opened and directed such that heated resin from the reactor 102 may be flushed through the sampling cavity 122 of the automated sampling container 120. The first valve 176, the optional metering valve 117, and the sampling valve 118 may be opened, closed, or otherwise varied relative to the sampling cavity 122 as described above to fill the sampling cavity 122. After the sampling cavity 122 is filled, the second valve 178 may be opened to flush the sampling cavity 122. It will be understood that the sampling cavity 122 may be flushed as many times as necessary to sufficiently clean the sampling cavity 122.

[0085] It has been found that the flushing the sampling cavity 122 with heated resin (e.g., resin from the reactor 102) sufficiently removes cold and / or hardened resin which may be contained in the sampling cavity 122 without the introduction of additional materials and which may be reintroduced back into the reactor 102 as part of the resin preparation process. However, it will be understood that the sampling cavity 122 may be cleaned in other suitable manners. For example, the sampled resin in the sampling cavity 122 and / or the drained sampling cavity 122 may be flushed with water.

[0086] The system 100 may optionally include a supply tank 174 (e.g., Figs. 1 and 11-12) configured to store additional materials or substances which may be operatively introduced into the storage cavity of the reserve tank 160, such as to be added into the reactor 102. In some embodiments, the supply tank 174 may is fluidly connected to a fourth inlet 168 of the reserve tank 160 such that the contents of the supply tank 174 may be directed into the storage cavity of the reserve tank 160. The supply tank 174 includes a supply cavity which may operatively contain materials or substances which may be operatively introduced into the storage cavity of the reserve tank 160. The supply tank 174 may be filled with one or more substances or compositions which may be added to the resin in the reserve tank 160 such that the resin may be reintroduced into the preparation process in the reactor 102, one or more substances or compositions which may reduce the solidifying and / or growth of resin in the reserve tank 160, one or more substances or compositions which may charge the resin in the reserve tank 160, or any other suitable substance or compositions. For example, the supply tank 174 may include a defoaming agent which may be introduced to the resin contained in the reserve tank 160 before being reintroduced into the reactor102, a base or alkaline substance which may be introduced into the reactor 102 to increase the pH of the preparing resin, or an acidic substance which may introduced into the reactor 102 to decrease the pH of the preparing resin.

[0087] While the system 100 has been described as including one supply tank 174, it will be understood that the system may include multiple supply tanks 174. For example, the system 100 may include multiple supply tanks 174 for separately containing multiple, different substances and / or compositions to be added into the reserve tank 160, such as one supply tank 174 including an acidic composition and one supply tank 174 including a basic composition, as discussed below.

[0088] Each supply tank 174 may have a removable lid operatively covering an opening of the supply tank 174 such that substances and / or compositions may be added into the supply tank 174. For example, the lid of the supply tank 174 may be slidable and / or hinged such that the supply tank 174 may be opened for the deposition of material and then moved back to the closed position during operation of the system 100.

[0089] The system 100 may include a fifth valve 184 disposed between the supply tank 174 and the fourth inlet 168 of the reserve tank 160. The fifth valve 184 is configured to operatively control the flow of the contents of the supply tank 174 to the storage cavity of the reserve tank 160. The fifth valve 184 may be movable between a closed position which prevents the contents of the supply tank 174 from flowing to the reserve tank 160 and a fully open position which allows the contents of the supply tank 174 to flow to the reserve tank 160. It will be understood that the fifth valve 184 may be moved to any position between the closed position and the fully open position, such as 25% open, 50% open, and 75% open, to control the flow of contents of the supply tank 174 to the reserve tank 160. In some embodiments, the fifth valve 184 may be autonomously and / or remotely controlled, as described below. In some embodiments, the fifth valve 184 is as ball valve.

[0090] While the fifth valve 184 has been described as being separate from the supply tank 174 and the fourth inlet 168 of the reserve tank 160, it will be understood that the system 100 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the fifth valve 184 may be integrated into the supply tank 174 and / or the fourth inlet 168 of the reserve tank 160.

[0091] While the reserve tank 160 has been described as including four inlets 162, 164, 166, 168 and one outlet port 170, it will be understood that the system 100 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the reserve tank 160 may have one, two, three, or five or more inlets and may include more than one outlet. Additionally, one or more of the inlets 162, 164, 166, 168 may be coupled with more than one additional component. For example, one of the inlets 162,164, 166, 168 may be coupled with the pump 172 and the fifth valve 184 (e.g., Fig. 3), which may be coupled with the supply tank 174.

[0092] The system 100 may also include one or more system controllers 190 configured to monitor the operation of the system 100, generate outputs indicative of one or more properties of the resin contained in the reactor 102, and / or generate one or more outputs to control one or more operations of the system 100. The system controller 190 includes at least one processor 192 and a memory 194 in data communication with one another. The at least one processor 192 executes instructions that are stored in the memory 194. The instructions may be, for instance, instructions for implementing functionality described as being carried out by one or more systems discussed herein or instructions for one or more of the methods described herein. The processor 192 may be a GPU, a plurality of GPUs, a CPU, a plurality of CPUs, a multi-core processor, a controller, a micro-controller, a PLC, a SOM, etc. The processor 192 may access the memory 194 by way of a system bus. The memory 194 has a sampling module 196 loaded therein that is configured to generate one or more operational outputs related to the operation of the system 100. In addition to storing instructions, the memory 194 may also store sensor data, data related to the substance being prepared (such as desired properties of the substance per batch), data related to the accuracy, sensitivity, and location of sensors in the systems, historical information relating to prepared substances. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 also includes a control system loaded therein that is configured to output a command to one or more components to control an operation the component(s).

[0093] The system controller 190 is in data communication with the sensors of the automated sampling container 120 (e.g., thermometer 132, the viscometer 134, the pH meter 136), the agitator 130, the sensors of the reactor 102, the first valve 176, the second valve 178, the third valve 180, the return valve 181, the fourth valve 182, the fifth valve 184, the metering valve 117, the sampling valve 118, the pump 172, the sensors of the reactor 102, the sensors of the manual sampling container 150, and the other components of the system 100. The system controller 190 is configured to receive the outputs generated by the thermometer 132, the viscometer 134, the pH meter 136, and the other sensors of the system 100 as inputs and to generate one or more outputs indicative of the received inputs. The system controller 190 may also be configured to generate one or more outputs to control an operation of the system 100. For example, the system controller 190 may be configured to generate one or more outputs which cause one or more valves 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184 to open and / or close, which causes the agitator 130 to operate, and which causes the pump 172 to operate. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 is also configured to generate one or more outputs which causes the preparation of resin in the reactor102 to change, such as based upon the outputs of the sensors of the automated sampling container 120 (e.g., thermometer 132, the viscometer 134, the pH meter 136).

[0094] In some embodiments, the system controller 190 is configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the system 100 to automatically sample and test resin from the reactor 102 without human intervention and / or remotely from humans. The system controller 190 may cause the system 100 to automatically sample and test resin at predetermined periods throughout the resin preparation process. It will be understood that the term automatically encompasses sampling and testing which is performed outside the presence of humans and sampling and testing which is performed without the physical intervention of humans, whether done without any human interaction or based upon the prompting of a human. It will be understood that the terms automatically sample resin and automatically test resin encompass the sampling and testing which is performed with in-line cooling and in-line testing such that resin need not be removed from the system 100.

[0095] The system controller 190 may be configured to generate one or more outputs which causes the second valve 178 to move to the closed position and which causes the first valve 176 to move to an open position such that resin flows from the outlet 104 of the reactor 102 to the inlet 112 of the sample intake component 110. The system controller 190 may also be configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the metering valve 117 to move between the closed and open positions to control the amount of resin supplied the sampling valve 118. The system controller 190 may also be configured to generate one or more outputs which causes the sampling valve 118 to direct resin from the reactor 102 to the sampling cavity 122. The system controller 190 may generate one or more command outputs which cause the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, and the sampling valve 118 to open relative to the sampling cavity 122 as discussed above. After a sufficient volume of resin has been directed into the sampling cavity 122 from the reactor 102, the system controller 190 may generate one or more commands which cause the sampling cavity 122 to close, such as by closing the first valve 176, closing the metering valve 117, and / or closing the sampling valve 118 to the sampling cavity 122.

[0096] The system controller 190 may also be configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the resin in the sampling cavity 122 to be cooled. The resin contained in the sampling cavity 122 may be cooled from its initial temperature, a temperature substantially equivalent to the temperature of the resin in the reactor 102, toward a predetermined temperature such that desired measurements of the resin can be taken. For example, the resin may be cooled to a temperature of about 25°C. The cooling element 128 and / or the agitator 130 may be operated to cool the resin to substantially the predetermined temperature. For example, the system controller 190 may generateone or more commands which cause the cooling element 128 to operate and / or which cause the agitator 130 to begin agitating the resin in the sampling cavity 122.

[0097] The system controller 190 may receive the outputs generated by the thermometer 132, the viscometer 134, the pH meter 136, and any other sensor of the automated sampling container 120 as inputs continuously or near continuously. When the thermometer 132 generates an output indicative that the temperature of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 has reached the predetermined temperature (e.g., 25°C), the system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs indicative of the other properties of the resin in the sampling cavity 122. For example, when the thermometer 132 generates an output indicative of the resin reaching the predetermined temperature, the system controller 190 may record and generate an output indicative of the viscosity and the pH (or other property) of the resin in the sampling cavity 122.

[0098] While the system controller 190 has been described as capturing the outputs of the viscometer 134, the pH meter 136, and the other sensors of the automated sampling container 120 when the thermometer 132 generates an output that the resin in the sampling cavity 122 has been substantially cooled to the predetermined temperature, it will be understood that the system 100 may have other operations. For example, the system controller 190 may capture the outputs of the sensors continuously or at predetermined intervals or temperatures, such as to correlate different properties of the resin.

[0099] After the resin in the automated sampling container 120 has been measured, the system controller 190 may generate one or more output commands which cause the resin in the sampling cavity 122 to be drained to the reserve tank 160. For example, the system controller 190 may generate one or more output commands which cause the second valve 178 to move to the open position.

[0100] After the resin has been sampled, tested, and drained from the automated sampling container 120, the system controller 190 may be configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the system 100 to flush and clean the sampling cavity 122 as described above. The system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs which cause the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, and the sampling valve 118 to direct heated resin from the reactor 102 through the sampling cavity 122. The system controller 190 may also be configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the second valve 178 to move to an open position such that leftover resin in the sampling cavity 122 and the heated resin from the reactor 102 may flow out of the sampling cavity 122 and into the reserve tank 160. The system controller 190 may be configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, the sampling valve118, and the second valve 178 to move between the closed and open positions as discussed above. After the sampling cavity 122 has been cleaned, the system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs which cause prevents the flow of resin to the sampling cavity 122 (e.g., closing the first valve 176, closing the metering valve 117, and / or moving the sampling valve 118 to prevent the flow of resin to the sampling cavity 122) and closing the second valve 178.

[0101] In some embodiments, the system controller 190 is configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the system 100 to adjust the preparation of the resin in the resin preparation process, such as based upon the outputs generated by the sensors in the automated sampling container 120. The system controller 190 may be configured to compare the measured properties of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 to desired properties (e.g., viscosity, pH, etc.) of the resin and generate one or more outputs which cause the system 100 to adjust the preparation of the resin without human intervention and / or exposure and such that the prepared resin is within predetermined values. For example, the system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs which cause the fifth valve 184 to open to such that additional acidic substances can be introduced to the reactor 102 from the supply tank 174 if the measured pH of the resin is higher than a predetermined value or such that additional basic substances can be introduced to the reactor 102 from the supply tank 174 if the measured pH of the resin is lower than a predetermined value.

[0102] Based upon instructions from the system controller 190, the sampling process may be repeated a number of times for the resin preparation process. In some embodiments, the system 100 may begin sampling a new batch of resin immediately after the sampling cavity 122 has been flushed and cleaned. In some embodiments, the system 100 may collect, cool, and sample resin in less than 10 minutes without human intervention.

[0103] In some embodiments, the system controller 190 is also configured to generate one or more outputs which controls the deposition of resin for manual sampling with reduced human exposure. The system controller 190 may generate one or more commands which cause the first valve 176 to move to an open position and which cause the sampling valve 118 to direct resin toward the sampling chamber 152 of the manual sampling container 150. The system controller 190 may also be configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the metering valve 117 to move between the closed and open positions to control the amount of resin supplied the sampling valve 118. The system controller 190 may maintain the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, and / or the sampling valve 118 in the open positions such that the sampling receptacle 158 may be filled autonomously. For example, resin may be deposited into the sampling receptacle 158 without requiring the presence of a human in the environment and / or without requiring human intervention.

[0104] In some embodiments, the system controller 190 is configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the first valve 176 to move to an open position for a period of time such that the sample intake component 110 receives a sufficient amount of resin from the reactor 102. In other embodiments, the system controller 190 may be configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the metering valve 117 to be moved between the closed and opened positions such that a desired amount of resin is received in the sample intake component 110. The system controller 190 may then generate one or more commands which cause the sampling valve 118 to move to an open position relative to the manual sampling container 150. The sampling valve 118 may be opened at and between varying degrees of openness, such as about 50% open, about 100% open, opening incrementally (e.g., in 25% increments), and / or the like. For example, the sampling valve 118 may be gradually closed as the sampling receptacle 158 nears being filled with resin. The second valve 178 and the sampling valve 118 may be opened, closed, or otherwise varied relative to the sampling chamber 152 as described above to fill the sampling receptacle 158.

[0105] The manual sampling container 150 may include a liquid level sensor configured to generate one or more outputs indicative of the amount of resin within the sampling receptacle 158. The system controller 190 may receive the outputs of the liquid level sensor as inputs. When the liquid level sensor generates an output indicative of the sampling receptacle 158 being substantially filled, the system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs which cause the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, and / or the sampling valve 118 to close with respect to the manual sampling container 150 and prevents the flow of additional resin to the sampling receptacle 158. In other embodiments, the system controller 190 is configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, and / or the sampling valve 118 to close after a predetermined period of time, such as a predetermined time required to substantially fill the sampling receptacle 158. After the sampling receptacle 158 has been sufficiently filled with resin, a user may extract the sampling receptacle 158 from the manual sampling container 150 for manual cooling and sampling.

[0106] The system controller 190 may also be configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the system 100 to reintroduce sampled resin into the reactor 102. The system controller 190 may generate one or more commands which cause the third valve 180 to move to an open position such that resin within the reserve tank 160 may be reintroduced into the reactor 102 for continued preparation. The system controller 190 may also generate one or more commands which cause the pump 172 to activate and begin pumping the contents of the reserve tank 160 out of the outlet port 170 of the reserve tank 160 and into the inlet 106 of the reactor 102. The system controller 190 may cause the 100 to reintroduced sampled resin into the reactor 102 atpredetermined intervals, at predetermined fill rates of the reserve tank, and / or as instructed by a user.

[0107] The system 100 may further include a user interface 198 in data communication with the system controller 190. The user interface 198 may be a graphical and / or digital representation generated by the system controller 190 such that a user may interact with the system controller 190. The user interface 198 may be capable of being displayed on any digital display such as, but not limited to, a LCD, LED, OLED, monitor, television, cellular telephone, or tablet computer.

[0108] The system controller 190 may generate windows, prompts, commands, menus, forms, interactive modules, or other displays in the user interface 198 indicative of real time, near real-time, and / or historical conditions regarding operation of the system 100, such as historical viscosity and / or pH measurements, real time or near real-time sensed properties of the resin in the sampling cavity 122, and operational conditions of the reactor 102. For example, the system controller 190 may generate windows or prompts in the user interface 198 such that a user may input resin properties based upon manual sampling.

[0109] Based upon received information, the system controller 190 may generate one or more alerts or prompts in the user interface 198, such as regarding operation of the system 100. For example, based upon sensor data information indicative of sampled resin not being within a desired viscosity and / or pH range, the system controller 190 and / or the user interface 198 may generate an alert in the user interface 198 indicative of the condition of the resin, such as along with proposed solutions, such that a user may resolve the issue. In some embodiments, based upon received sensor data information received, the system controller 190 and / or the user interface 198 may generate an alert in the user interface 198 prompting the user to indicate whether the system 100 should perform one or more actions. For example, based upon sensed pH measurements of the resin being outside a predetermined range, the system controller 190 and / or the user interface 198 may generate an alert in the user interface 198 for a user to confirm that the system controller 190 should generate one or more output commands causing one or more supply tanks 174 to release an alkaline substance or an acidic substance into the reserve tank 160 and ultimately into the reactor 102.

[0110] Additionally, based upon information received from one or more valves 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184 in the system 100 indicative of one or more valves 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184 not operating correctly, the system controller 190 and / or the user interface 198 may generate an alert in the user interface 198 indicative of the faulty valve 117, 118, 176,178, 180, 181, 182, 184 such that a user may resolve the issue. For example, the system controller 190 and / or the user interface may generate a prompt in the user interface 198 indicating that one or more of the valves 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184 are not operating correctly and should be manually adjusted or controlled.[OHl] Further, the user interface 198 may include options which allow a user to update the system controller 190. For example, the system controller 190 and / or the user interface 198 may generate a prompt in the user interface 198 to which a user may respond that a fault has been cleared or otherwise resolved and / or to which a user may respond that actions have been taken to adjust the resin preparation in the reactor 102. The system controller 190 and / or the user interface 198 may also generate a prompt in the user interface 198 to which a user may indicate the desired properties (e.g., viscosity, pH, etc.) of a particular batch of resin.

[0112] The system controller 190 may be in data communication with the other components of the system 100 via one or more networks. The networks may be any suitable network capable of wirelessly providing data communication between the system controller 190 and the other components of the system 100, such as a Bluetooth, Internet, intranet, cellular, infrared, WiFi, radio, ultraband, ZigBee, or other network. For example, the system controller 190, sensors of the automated sampling container 120 (e.g., thermometer 132, the viscometer 134, the pH meter 136), and the valves 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184 include wireless receivers / transceivers configured to transmit, receive, and / or relay wireless signals within the system 100 via one or more networks.

[0113] Referring now to Figures 2-12, the system 100 is shown according to various embodiments. The systems 100 may operate substantially similarly to the system 100 described in Figure 1 with the below differences.

[0114] Referring now to Figures 2-10B, the system 100 is shown according to one embodiment. As shown in Figs. 2-5, the first valve 176 is disposed at a top of the system 100 such that the first valve 176 may be fluidly coupled to the reactor 102. The sample intake component 110 is fluidly connected to the first valve 176 below the first valve 176. The metering valve 117 may operably receive resin from the first valve 176 and control the flow of resin to the sampling valve 118. The sampling valve 118 is operable to control the flow of resin to either the automated sampling container 120 on one side of the system 100 or the manual sampling container 150 on the other side of the system 100.

[0115] In the illustrated embodiment, the automated sampling container 120 is disposed on the right side of the system 100 and the manual sampling container 150 is disposed on the left sideof the system 100. However, it will be understood that the system 100 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the automated sampling container 120 may be disposed on the left side of the system 100 and the manual sampling container 150 may be disposed on the right side of the system 100, the automated sampling container 120 and the manual sampling container 150 may be vertically oriented, or the system 100 may only include automated sampling container 120. Additionally, as described below, the system 100 may be modular and / or movable.

[0116] The reserve tank 160 is disposed below the automated sampling container 120 and the manual sampling container 150 such that the reserve tank may receive resin from the automated sampling container 120 and the manual sampling container 150. The reserve tank 160 is substantially cylindrical and configured to receive and / or store resin. The reserve tank 160 may receive resin from the automated sampling container 120 via the first input port 162 and may receive resin from the manual sampling container 150 via the second input port 164. The reserve tank 160 may be coupled with both the pump 172 and the fifth valve 184 via the third input port 166. The fifth valve 184 may be coupled with a supply tank 174, as described above (e.g. Fig. 12). The outlet port 170 of the reserve tank 160 may be fluidly coupled with the reactor 102 or other suitable tank or drain.

[0117] The fourth input port 168 may be fluidly coupled with the return valve 181. The return valve 181 may control the flow of resin from the first valve 176 and the reserve tank 160. For example, the return valve 181 and the first valve 176 may be moved to the open positions and the pump 172 may direct resin from the reserve tank 160 through the return valve 181 and through the first valve 176, such as back into the reactor 102. Alternatively, when the first valve 176 is open and the sample intake component 110 is closed, the return valve 181 may be opened to permit flow of resin directly from the first valve 176 to the reserve tank 160, such as before the resin is ready to be sampled or to drain the reactor 102.

[0118] The reserve tank 160 may include any suitable number of inlet ports and / or outlet ports based upon the system 100. For example, input and / or output ports may be added and / or blocked for the reserve tank 160, such as based upon the configuration of the system. Additionally, one or more inputs and / or exports may serve multiple purposes, such as to reduce the number of components in the system and / or to reduce the footprint of the system. For example, the supply tank 174 and the pump 172 may be connected to the reserve tank 160 via the same input port.

[0119] As shown in Figures 2-10B, the automated sampling container 120 may be substantially cylindrical and disposed below and to the right of the sample intake component 110 such that resin may flow into the sampling cavity 122 via gravity. The manual sampling container150 may be substantially box-shaped and disposed below and to the left of the sample intake component 110 such that resin may flow into the sampling chamber 152 via gravity, such as in parallel to the flow of resin to the sampling cavity 122. The reserve tank 160 may be disposed substantially below the outlets 126, 156 of the automated sampling container 120 and the manual sampling container 150 such that sampled resin may flow to the reserve tank 160 via gravity. However, it will be understood that the system 100 may have other suitable configurations.

[0120] As shown in Figures 2-10, the viscometer 134 may be disposed at a top or upper portion of the automated sampling container 120 and extend downwardly into the sampling cavity 122. The viscometer 134 includes an extension arm extending downwardly from the top of the sampling cavity 122 and a sensor disposed at the bottom end of the extension arm. The arm and sensor are sized, shaped, and configured such that the sensor of the viscometer 134 may be substantially disposed within resin when the sampling cavity 122 is filled with resin.

[0121] In some embodiments, the viscometer 134 is operably secured within the sampling cavity 122 by a first clamp 142. The first clamp 142 is configured to operably secure the viscometer 134 (e.g., the arm of the viscometer 134) to a top of the sampling cavity 122 such that the sensor of the viscometer 134 may be disposed within the middle of the sampling cavity 122. The first clamp 142 may form a substantial fluid seal around the top of the sampling cavity 122 when the first clamp 142 is secured to the automated sampling container 120. The first clamp 142 may also be removable from the automated sampling container 120. For example, the first clamp 142 may be released such that the viscometer 134 may be extracted from the sampling cavity 122, such as for cleaning, and such that the top of the sampling cavity 122 may be opened, such as to insert one or more additional sensors or components therein. In some embodiments, the first clamp 142 is a tri-clover clamp mounting plate flange having a groove for receiving a groove gasket therebetween. However, it will be understood that the first clamp 142 may be any suitable clamp or fastener for operably securing the viscometer 134 to the body of the automated sampling container 120.

[0122] As shown in Figures 8-9, in some embodiments, the clamp 142 (e.g., top) of the automated sampling container 120 includes a viscometer port 145 extending through a top portion of the automated sampling container 120 such that the viscometer 134 may be at least partially inserted into the sampling cavity 122 from a position above the automated sampling container 120. For example, the viscometer port 145 may permit the viscometer to be removed, cleaned, replaced, or the like without completely disassembling the system 100.

[0123] As shown in Figure 9, in some embodiments, the system 100 includes a cover 135 disposed around a portion of the agitator 130. The cover 135 may substantially surround a portion of the agitator 130 such as to increase the safety of the system 100 and / or to prevent agitated resin from leaving the system 100.

[0124] As shown in Figures 2-7B, the cooling element 128 may be a cooling coil which extends around a circumference of the automated sampling container 120 defining the side walls of at least a portion of the sampling cavity 122. As such, the cooling element 128 may directly define the side walls of the automated sampling container 120. The cooling element 128 is a spiral coil containing a cooling fluid which is passed through the length of the cooling element 128 to cool resin contained within the sampling cavity 122. The cooling fluid in the cooling element 128 may be a fluid with a low freezing point such that the cooling fluid may flow through the cooling element 128 to sufficiently cool the resin in the sampling cavity 122. In some embodiments, the cooling fluid is a non-hazardous and non-toxic fluid. In some embodiments, the cooling fluid is propylene glycol. However, it will be understood that other suitable cooling fluids may be used. For example, the cooling fluid may be chilled water. In some embodiments, the cooling element 128 is configured to cool resin at 98°C in the sampling cavity 122 to 25°C in under 5 minutes, such as under 4 minutes. However, it will be understood that the cooling fluid may be another suitable fluid or combinations thereof.

[0125] The cooling element 128 may be manufactured by cutting a / i inch steel pipe in half lengthwise and welding the pipe spirally around the outer perimeter of the sampling cavity 122 such that fluid flowing through the cooling element 128 is in direct contact with a surface which is also in direct contact with resin in the sampling cavity 122. However, it will be understood that the cooling element 128 may comprise other suitable materials and / or the coils may have a different diameter. The cooling element 128 may extend substantially between the inlet 124 of the automated sampling container 120 and one or more ports at a bottom of the automated sampling container 120, as described below, such as to increase the cooling effect of the cooling element 128.

[0126] While the cooling element 128 has been described as a cooling coil which defines the side wall of the sampling cavity 122, it will be understood that the automated sampling container 120 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the cooling element 128 may be spirally wound around the outside of a cylinder defining the sampling cavity 122. In such embodiments, the cooling element 128 may be affixed to the outer perimeter of the cylinder witha thermal paste to increase the heat transfer between the resin in the sampling cavity 122 and the cooling fluid within the cooling element 128.

[0127] While the cooling element 128 has been described as a cooling coil disposed substantially around the circumference of the automated sampling container 120, it will be understood that the cooling element 128 may have other suitable configurations. For example, at least a portion of the cooling coil may extend through an interior of the automated sampling container 120 (e.g., within the sampling cavity 122) to increase the contact between the cooling element 128 and the resin contained within the sampling cavity 122.

[0128] The automated sampling container 120 may include an agitator port 148 at an upper portion of the automated sampling container 120. The agitator port 148 may be disposed in a top or a side of the automated sampling container 120 above the cooling element 128. The agitator port 148 is sized, shaped, and configured to receive the agitator 130 at least partially therethrough such that a distal portion of the agitator 130 may extend into a middle portion of the sampling cavity 122 with a proximal portion of the agitator 130 disposed outside the sampling cavity 122. The agitator 130 may have a longitudinal member which may be extended through the agitator port 148 and an agitating member disposed at a distal end of the longitudinal member configured to agitate resin. In some embodiments, the longitudinal member of the agitator 130 is a rod or cable. The agitation member at the distal end of the agitator 130 may be a paddle extending radially outwardly such that rotation of the agitator 130 within the sampling cavity 122 rotates the paddle and agitates (e.g., mixes) the resin contained in the sampling cavity, such as described below. In some embodiments, the paddle of the agitator 130 comprises silicone.

[0129] The proximal end of the agitator 130 may include or be otherwise coupled with a motor or similar device configured to automatically rotate the agitator 130 within the sampling cavity and which is in data communication with the system controller 190. The system controller 190 may be configured to generate one or more outputs which cause the motor to rotate and / or stop the rotation of the agitator 130, including changing the speed of rotation of the agitator 130.

[0130] The agitator port 148 may be oriented downwardly toward a medial portion of the sampling cavity 122 such that the agitator extends downwardly toward a middle of the sampling cavity 122 when inserted through the agitator port 148, such as to agitate resin in the sampling cavity 122. In some embodiments, the agitator 130 extends substantially downwardly (Fig. 7B). In other embodiments, the agitator 130 extends downwardly at an angle into the sampling cavity 122 (Fig. 3). In some embodiments, the agitator 130 extends at an angle of about 45° downwardinto the sampling cavity 122. However, it will be understood that the agitator 130 may be positioned at any suitable angle.

[0131] In some aspects, the height of the agitator 130 is substantially fixed within the sampling cavity 122 when the agitator 130 is inserted through the agitator port 148 into the sampling cavity 122. For example, the agitator 130 may include one or more mounting plates, flanges, or shoulders which abut an outer surface of the agitator port 148 which prevent the agitator 130 from extending beyond a certain point relative to the agitator port 148. In other embodiments, the height of the agitator 130 may be adjusted within the sampling cavity 122, such as to increase the agitation of resin contained in the sampling cavity 122. For example, the motor coupled to the proximal end of the agitator 130 may also be configured to reciprocate the agitator 130 such that the agitator 130 is raised and / or lowered within the sampling cavity 122.

[0132] In the illustrated embodiment, the agitator port 148 is disposed substantially opposite to the inlet 124 of the automated sampling container 120. However, it will be understood that the agitator port 148 may be disposed at any suitable location around the automated sampling container 120 such that the distal end of the agitator 130 is substantially disposed within resin when the sampling cavity 122 is filled with resin. For example, the first clamp 142 may be sized shaped and configured such that both the viscometer 134 and the agitator 130 may extend into the sampling cavity 122 through the top of the automated sampling container 120 (e.g., through the first clamp 142). For example, the first clamp 142 may comprise a plurality of belts or bands (e.g., V-bands) such that both the viscometer 134 and the agitator 130 may extend through the first clamp 142.

[0133] Referring now to Figures 10A and 10B, the agitator 130 is shown according to one embodiment. The agitator 130 includes a shaft 131 and at least one paddle 133 disposed near the distal end of the shaft 131. Each paddle 133 may be disposed at a distance along a length of the shaft 131 such that the paddle 133 may agitate resin when the sampling cavity 122 is filled with resin. The paddles 133 may extend radially outward from the shaft 131 and may be disposed circumferentially around the shaft 131 relative to one another such that the paddles 133 may agitate resin when the shaft 131 is rotated. In the illustrated embodiment, each paddle 133 is substantially rectangular with a triangular portion at the proximal end thereof. However, it will be understood that the paddles 133 may have any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration.

[0134] In the illustrated embodiment, the agitator 130 includes four paddles 133 disposed symmetrically around the distal end of the shaft 131. However, it will be understood that the agitator 130 may have any suitable number and / or configuration of paddles 133. For example, theagitator 130 may include one, two, three, or five or more paddles 133 and the paddles 133 may be disposed in any manner on and / or around the shaft 131, such as at one or more locations along a length of the shaft 131.

[0135] As shown in Figures 6A-7B, the automated sampling container 120 may also include an input port 146 disposed near the bottom of the automated sampling container 120. The pH meter 136 may be at least partially inserted through the input port 146 such that a sensor of the pH meter 136 may be disposed within the sampling cavity 122 and operable to sense the pH of resin contained within the sampling cavity 122 (e.g., contact resin within the sampling cavity 122). The input port 146 may be disposed below the cooling element 128 such that the input port 146 and / or the pH meter 136 do not interfere with the cooling element 128.

[0136] The pH meter 136 may form a substantially fluid tight seal within the input port 146 such that resin contained in the sampling cavity 122 does not flow through the input port 146. For example, the input port 146 may contain one or more gaskets or seals which form a fluid seal with an outer surface of the pH meter 136 when the pH meter 136 is disposed through the input port 146.

[0137] The automated sampling container 120 may also include one or more fasteners disposed at a base of the automated sampling container 120 to operably secure the automated sampling container 120, such as to an upper portion of a pipe or similar conduit to direct resin out of the sampling cavity 122. The automated sampling container 120 may include a flange or mounting plate 143 extending radially outwardly from the bottom portion of the automated sampling container 120. The mounting plate 143 may define one or more openings each configured for receiving one of the fasteners therethrough to operably secure the automated sampling container 120. The fasteners may be threadingly received through openings of the mounting plate 143 to threadingly engage the downstream pipe and / or conduit to operably secure the automated sampling container 120 to the downstream pipe and / or conduit. The mounting plate 143 may also at least partially define the outlet 126 of the automated sampling container 120. The mounting plate 143 and the fasteners may form a substantial fluid seal around the base of the automated sampling container 120 when secured to the downstream pipe and / or conduit.

[0138] The automated sampling container 120 may also be removable from the downstream pipe and / or conduit by unfastening the fasteners. For example, the fasteners may be removed from the downstream pipe and / or conduit such that the automated sampling container 120 may be removed from the downstream pipe and / or conduit, such as to modify the system 100, such as to add and / or remove components from the system 100. In some embodiments, thefasteners are quick-connect and / or quick-disconnect fasteners. However, it will be understood that the base of the automated sampling container 120 may be operably secured to the downstream pipe and / or conduit by any suitable clamp or fastener, or combinations thereof.

[0139] One or more components of the system 100 may be modular such that components may be added to and / or removed from the system 100. The various components of the system 100 may be operably secured together such that one or more components may be removed from the system 100. For example, in the event of an issue with the automated sampling container 120, the automated sampling container 120 may be disconnected from the remainder of the system 100 and the manual sampling container 150 may be used for the sampling of resin and vice versa.

[0140] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first valve 176, the optional metering valve 117, the sampling valve 118, the second valve 178, the third valve 180, the optional return valve 181, the fourth valve 182, and the fifth valve 184 are coupled with the system controller 190. The system controller 190 is configured to generate one or more outputs which cause one or more of the first valve 176, the optional metering valve 117, the sampling valve 118, the second valve 178, the third valve 180, the optional return valve 181, the fourth valve 182, and the fifth valve 184 to move between the open and closed positions, such as to control the flow of resin through the system 100. For example, each of the first valve 176, the optional metering valve 117, the sampling valve 118, the second valve 178, the third valve 180, the optional return valve 181, the fourth valve 182, and the fifth valve 184 may include an actuator configured to move the respective valve between the open and closed positions and the actuators may be in data communication with the system controller 190 such that outputs of the system controller 190 cause each actuator to move the respective valve between the open and closed positions. Each actuator includes a valve control mechanism, such a linear or rotary actuator, which may move the respective valve 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184 between the open and closed positions and which may be pneumatically, electrically, and / or hydraulically operated. Each actuator may also include a controller in data communication with the system controller 190 and configured to receive outputs generated by the system controller 190 and generate and transmit outputs to the system controller 190, such as outputs indicative of the operation of the respective valve 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184. The valve control mechanism of each actuator may control the position of the respective valve 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184 based upon the received outputs from the system controller 190.

[0141] The system controller 190 may cause the first valve 176, the optional metering valve 117, the sampling valve 118, the second valve 178, the third valve 180, the optional return valve 181, the fourth valve 182, and the fifth valve 184 to move automatically (e.g., without usermanipulation) between the open and closed positions, such as to decrease user exposure to the resin and / or fumes. The controller 190 may generate outputs which control the movement of the first valve 176, the optional metering valve 117, the sampling valve 118, the second valve 178, the third valve 180, the return valve 181, the fourth valve 182, and the fifth valve 184 based upon a sensed condition, a predetermined period of time, and / or user input, such as from user interface 198.

[0142] It will be understood that each of the actuators described herein may be quickconnect and / or quick-disconnect actuators configured to be quickly connected and disconnected within the system. As such, in the event that one or more components in the system fail, the actuators may be quickly disconnected, the system 100 may be modified as necessary, and the actuators may be quickly reconnected to resume operation of the system 100. For example, the actuators may comprise stainless steel bolts, such as with the heads removed, with pins extending through passages above and below connection points. The pins may be coupled to cables such that the pins may be removed by pulling the cables, such that the bolts may be retracted and the system may be quickly disassembled, modified, and reassembled.

[0143] Referring now to Figures 11 and 12, the system 100 is shown according to another embodiment. The system 100 of Figures 11 and 12 may be substantially similar to the system 100 described in Figures 2-10B with the below differences. It will be understood that, where possible, the system 100 of Figures 11 and 12 may incorporate any of the features of the system of Figures 2-10B and vice versa.

[0144] In some embodiments, one or more of the valves 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184 may be manually operable by a user, such as to manually open and close the valve 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184, and / or such that components upstream and / or downstream of the valve 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184 may be added or removed from the system. For example, one or more of the valves 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184 may include a component which a user may operate to move the valve 117, 118, 176, 178, 180, 181, 182, 184 between the open and closed positions.

[0145] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the third valve 180 includes an actuation arm 188 extending outside the body of the third valve 180 and which is coupled with the stem of the third valve 180. The actuation arm 188 may be operated (e.g., rotated) by a user to move the third valve 180 between the open and closed positions. For example, a user may manually operate the third valve 180 via the actuation arm 188 if the system controller 190 generates an output indicative of a fault with the third valve 180. Additionally, a user may manually operate the third valve 180 viathe actuation arm 188 to add, remove, and / or change components upstream and / or downstream of the third valve 180 within the system 100. Similarly, any of the other valves 117, 118, 176, 178, 181, 182, 184 may also include an actuation arm for manual operation of the respective valve 117, 118, 176, 178, 181, 182, 184. For example, the second valve 178 may also include an actuation arm which may be operated by a user in the event of clogging within the automated sampling container 120 or to remove the automated sampling container 120 from the remainder of the system 100, such as for cleaning.

[0146] As shown in Figure 11, the sample intake component 110 may also include an actuation arm 186 to control the flow of resin into the system 100 from the first valve 176. The actuation arm 186 of the sample intake component 110 may be disposed between the first valve 176 and the sampling valve 118 such that a user may manually meter out resin into the system 100 for sampling. Additionally, the actuation arm 186 of the sample intake component 110 may also be used to close the sample intake component 110, such as when the system 100 is moved or being installed.

[0147] Still referring to Figures 11 and 12, the reserve tank 160 may be substantially cylindrical with the automated sampling container 120 being fluidly coupled with the first input port 162 in a top portion of the reserve tank 160 and the manual sampling container 150 being fluidly coupled with the second input port 164 in a side of the reserve tank 160. The fifth valve 184 may be fluidly coupled to the third inlet 166 on an opposite side of the reserve tank 160 from the manual sampling container 150 and the fifth valve 184 may be coupled with the supply tank 174. However, it will be understood that the reserve tank 160 may have any suitable configuration.

[0148] In the illustrated embodiment, the system 100 does not include a fourth inlet port 168 or a pump 172, and the resin may be drained from the reserve tank 160 via other means, such as via gravity. However, it will be understood that the system 100 of Figures 11 and 12 may also include a pump 172 as described above.

[0149] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the agitator port 148 may be disposed on a side of the automated sampling container 120 opposite the inlet 124 to the automated sampling container 120. As such, the agitator 130 may be introduced in the sampling cavity 122 spaced apart from the viscometer 134 to decrease interference between the viscometer 134 and the agitator 130. It will be understood that, in such embodiments, the agitator 130 may be angled such that the agitator extends into the sampling cavity 122 to a position in which the agitator 130 may agitate resin contained in the sampling cavity 122.

[0150] In some embodiments, the system 100 is modular or otherwise movable such that the system 100 may be moved between different reactors and / or in different positions or configurations, such as for sampling different reactors, sampling different resins, or the like. For example, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the system 100 (excluding the reactor 102) includes a base 189 upon which the remainder of the system 100 is mounted. While mounted on the base 189, the system 100 may be movable between different reactors 102, such as to sample different batches and / or to sample different resins. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 189 is a skid. However, it will be understood that the base 189 may have other suitable configurations. For example, the base 189 may include wheels such that the system 100 may be rolled between locations.

[0151] Figures 13-14 illustrate exemplary methodologies relating to automatically collecting and sampling resin. While the methodologies are shown as being a series of acts that are performed in a sequence, it is to be understood and appreciated that the methodologies are not limited by the order of the sequence. For example, some acts can occur in a different order than what is described herein. In addition, and act can occur concurrently with another act. Further, in some instances, not all acts may be required to implement a methodology described herein.

[0152] Moreover, one or more acts described herein may be computer-executable instructions that can be implemented by one or more processors and / or stored on a computer-readable and / or stored on a computer-readable medium or media. The computer-executable instructions can include a routine, a sub-routine, programs, a thread of execution, and / or the like. Still further, results of acts of the methodologies can be stored in a computer-readable medium displayed on a display device, and / or the like.

[0153] With reference to Figure 13, a flow diagram illustrates a process 200 of automatically sampling a resin. At 202, a valve at a bottom of an automated sampling container is closed. The valve may be closed such that resin may be contained within a sampling cavity of the automated sampling container. As described above, the second valve 178 may be moved to a closed position such that resin may be retained in the sampling cavity 122 of the automated sampling container 120. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more command outputs which cause the second valve 178 to move to the closed position.

[0154] At 204, a valve to a sample intake is opened such that resin may flow from a reactor into an inlet of a sample intake component. As described above, the sampling valve 118 may be closed and the first valve 176 may be moved to an open position such that resin may flow from the outlet 104 of the reactor 102 into the inlet 112 of the sample intake component 110. In someembodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more command outputs which cause the first valve 176 to move to the open position.

[0155] In some embodiments, the metering valve 117 is used to meter or otherwise control the flow of resin into the sample intake component 110. After the first valve 176 is moved to the open position, and while the sampling valve 118 is in the closed position, the metering valve 117 may be moved between the closed and open positions to control the amount of resin that is delivered to the sampling valve 118. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more command outputs which cause the metering valve 117 to move between the closed and open positions such that a predetermined amount or volume of resin is supplied to the sampling valve 118.

[0156] At 206, a sampling valve within the sample intake component is moved to a position to direct the received resin into a sampling cavity of the automated sampling container. The sampling valve may be moved into an open position relative to the sampling cavity of the automated sampling container such that the received resin may flow into the sampling cavity of the automated sampling container. As described above, the sampling valve 118 may be moved to an open position relative to the automated sampling container 120 such that the resin from the reactor 102 flows into the sampling cavity 122 of the automated sampling container 120. In some embodiments, the amount the sampling valve 118 is opened is controlled or otherwise varied during the deposition of resin. For example, the sampling valve 118 may be opened 50%, may be opened 100%, may be opened incrementally (e.g., in 25% increments), and / or the like. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more output commands which cause the sampling valve 118 to move to the open position relative to automated sampling container 120.

[0157] In some embodiments, one or both of the first valve 176 and the metering valve 117 are moved to the closed position before the sampling valve 118 is moved to a position to direct resin into the automated sampling container 120. For example, the first valve 176 and / or the metering valve 117 may be moved to the closed positions in embodiments in which the reactor 102 is pressurized.

[0158] In certain aspects, steps 204 and 206 may be repeated a predetermined number of times, such as based upon the resin being prepared, including the opening and closing of the valves. For example, as described above, after the valve to the sample intake has been opened for a predetermined period such that an amount of resin has been provided into the sample intake component, the valve to the sample intake component may be moved to a closed position and the sampling valve may be moved to an open position. In some embodiments, the sampling valve isopened incrementally (e.g., in 25% increments) to control the flow of resin into the sampling cavity 122. After the sampling valve has been opened for a predetermined period of time (e.g., an amount of time sufficient to dispense the resin in the sample intake component), the sampling valve may be closed and the valve to the sample intake component may be reopened such that the process may be repeated as many times as required. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more output commands which cause the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, and the sampling valve 118 to move between the open and closed positions over a predetermined period of time to control the deposition of resin into the sampling cavity 122.

[0159] The valve to the sample intake component (e.g., the first valve 176), the metering valve (e.g., metering valve 117) and / or the sampling valve (e.g., sampling valve 118) may be closed in relation to the automated sampling container after a sufficient volume of resin has been dispensed into the sampling cavity, such as to prevent overfilling of the sampling cavity.

[0160] At 208, outputs are generated indicative of the temperature of the resin in the sampling cavity. A thermometer may be disposed partially within the sampling cavity and configured to generate outputs indicative of the temperature in the sampling cavity. As described above, the thermometer 132 may be partially disposed within the sampling cavity 122 and may generate outputs indicative of the temperature of the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122. In some embodiments, the outputs of the thermometer 132 are received by the system controller 190 as inputs. The thermometer 132 may generate outputs indicative of the temperature of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 continuously or near continuously and in real time or near realtime. In other embodiments, another sensor (e.g., the viscometer 134) is configured to generate indicative of the temperature of the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122, which may be generated continuously or near continuously and in real time or near real-time.

[0161] At 210, the resin in the sampling cavity may be cooled and / or agitated to a predetermined temperature. An agitator disposed partially within the sampling cavity may be operated to agitate the resin and a cooling element may be included in and / or around the sampling cavity to cool the resin to a predetermined temperature, such as to a temperature of about 25°C. As described above, the agitator 130 may extend partially into the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122 and be operated to agitate and cool the resin in the sampling cavity 122. The cooling element 128 may be disposed at least partially around the resin and include a cooling fluid such that contact with the cooling element 128 cools the resin in the sampling cavity 122. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more outputs which cause the agitator 130 to agitate the resin in the sampling cavity 122 and / or which causes cooling fluid to flow through the cooling element 128. The thermometer 132 (or viscometer 134) may be disposedwithin the sampling cavity 122 to generate outputs indicative of the temperature of the resin continuously or near continuously and in real time or near real-time.

[0162] In some embodiments, step 208 and / or step 210 may be omitted. For example, as discussed above, the system 100 may be used with resins and / or samples which do not require cooling before testing. In such embodiments, the methodology 200 may proceed to step 210 from step 206 or 208.

[0163] At 212, outputs are generated indicative of properties of the resin in the sampling cavity. One or more sensors are at least partially disposed in the sampling cavity to generate one or more predetermined outputs indicative of the properties of the resin. The sensors may generate outputs continuously or near continuously and in real time or near real-time. As described above, the viscometer 134 may generate outputs indicative of the viscosity of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 and the pH meter 136 may generate outputs indicative of the pH level of the resin in the sampling cavity 122. However, it will be understood that the automated sampling container 120 may include any suitable sensors for sensing properties of the resin contained in the sampling cavity 122. When the temperature of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 achieves the desired temperature (e.g., 25°C), such as based upon the output of the thermometer 132 (or viscometer 134), the sensors (viscometer 134, pH meter 136, etc.) may generate outputs indicative of the respective properties which the system controller 190 may receive as inputs. In some embodiments, one or more outputs may be generated at two or more desired temperatures set by the system controller 190 during the cooling of the sample. The outputs generated at different temperatures may be the same or different. For example, after the outputs are generated in step 212, step 210 may be repeated to cool and / or agitate the resin to a second predetermined temperature and step 212 may be repeated to generate outputs indicative of properties of the resin in the sampling cavity at the second predetermined temperature. Step 210 and step 212 may be repeated as many times as necessary, such as corresponding to the number predetermined temperatures as set by the system controller 190.

[0164] The system controller 190 may cause the sensors (viscometer 134, pH meter 136, etc.) to generate outputs indicative of the respective properties when the thermometer 132 (or viscometer 134) generates an output indicative of the resin reaching the desired temperature. In other embodiments, the sensors (viscometer 134, pH meter 136, etc.) continuously (or nearly continuously) generate outputs indicative of the respective properties and the system controller 190 is configured to capture the respective properties when the thermometer 132 generates an output indicative of the resin reaching the desired temperature. For example, the outputs of the sensors may be time-stamped for correlation. However, it will be understood that properties of theresin may be captured in other suitable manners. For example, a remote user may monitor the outputs of the thermometer 132 and cause the system controller 190 to record the outputs of the other sensors (viscometer 134, pH meter 136, etc.) when the temperature of the resin reaches the desired temperature, such as via the user interface 198.

[0165] In some embodiments, the sensors (e.g., viscometer 134, pH meter 136, etc.) may also generate outputs indicative of the respective properties at other times which may be recorded by the system controller 190.

[0166] At 214, the resin is drained from the sampling cavity. The valve at the bottom of the automated sampling cavity may be moved to an open position such that the resin contained in the sampling cavity may flow out of the sampling cavity. As described above, the second valve 178 may be moved to an open position such that resin in the sampling cavity 122 may flow out the outlet 126 of the automated sampling container 120 and into the first input port 162 of the reserve tank 160. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more outputs which cause the second valvel78 to move to the open position.

[0167] At 216, the sampling cavity is flushed with additional resin. The valve to the sample intake component, the sampling valve, and the valve at the bottom of the automated sampling cavity may be moved to open positions relative to the automated sampling cavity such that resin from the reactor may flush the sampling cavity of the automated sampling container. As described above, the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, the sampling valve 118, and the second valve 178 may be moved to an open position relative to the automated sampling container 120 such that resin from the reactor 102 may flow through the sample intake component 110, through the sampling cavity 122, and into the reserve tank 160. The flushing of the heated resin from the reactor 102 may sufficiently clean the sampling cavity 122 after the sampling of other resin.

[0168] The valves 176, 117, 118, 178 may be moved between the closed and open positions as required to sufficiently flush the sampling cavity 122. For example, the first valve 176 and / or the metering valve 117 may be opened for a predetermined period such that a sufficient volume of resin is delivered to the sample intake component 110, the first valve 176 and / or the metering valve 117 may be closed and the sampling valve 118 may be moved to the open position relative to the sampling cavity 122 such that the received resin is directed to the sampling cavity 122. The sampling valve 118 may be opened at and between varying degrees of openness, such as about 50% open, about 100% open, opening incrementally (e.g., in 25% increments), and / or the like. The first valve 176 and the sampling valve 118 may be moved between the closed and open positions as many times as is necessary to substantially fill the sampling cavity 122. After thesampling cavity 122 is sufficiently filled with resin, the second valve 178 may be moved to the open position to drain the heated resin from the sampling cavity 122. The process of opening and closing each of the valves 176, 117, 118, 178 may be repeated as many times as is required. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more outputs which move the first valve 176, the sampling valve 118, and the second valve 178 between the closed and open positions to flush additional resin through the sampling cavity 122 and into the reserve tank 160.

[0169] At 218, the resin preparation process is adjusted, such as based upon the properties of the sampled resin. As described above, one or more substances may be added to the preparing resin and / or the resin preparation process may be varied based upon the measured results of the sampled resin. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 is configured to adjust the resin preparation process based upon the outputs generated by the sensors (viscometer 134, pH meter 136, etc.). For example, the system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs which cause the fifth valve 184 to move to the open position such that an acidic substance is dispensed from the supply tank 174 when the outputs of the sensors (e.g., pH meter 136) indicate that the pH level of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 is too high or the system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs which cause the fifth valve 184 to move to the open position such that a basic substance is dispensed from the supply tank 174 when the outputs of the sensors (e.g., pH meter 136) indicate that the pH level of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 is too low. The reintroduction of the resin in the reserve tank 160 into the reactor 102 may correct the resin preparation process accordingly. Further, the system controller 190 may generate one or more output commands which cause the preparing batch of resin to be neutralized, such as if there are large variations in measured viscosity.

[0170] In some embodiments, the system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs or prompts on the user interface 198 for a user to take action to control or correct the resin preparation process based upon the outputs generated by the sensors (viscometer 134, pH meter 136, etc.).

[0171] At 220, resin is reintroduced into the reactor for continued resin preparation. A valve between the reserve tank and the reactor may be opened such that the sampled resin and the resin used for flushing the sampling cavity may be reintroduced to the reactor, such as for continued resin preparation. As described above, the fourth valve 182 may be moved to an open position such that resin in the reserve tank 160 may flow from the outlet port 170 and into the inlet 106 of the reactor 102. The pump 172 may also be actuated to assist in in transferring the contents of the reserve tank 160 to the reactor 102. In other embodiments, resin in the reserve tank 160 is reintroduced into the reactor 102 via the return valve 118 and the first valve 176. In someembodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more output commands which cause the pump 172 to operate to pump the contents of the reserve tank 160 into the reactor 102.

[0172] The process 200 may be repeated as many times as required during the preparation and / or manufacture of a given resin.

[0173] With reference to Figure 14, a flow diagram illustrates a process 300 of sampling resin in a partially automatic manner. At 302, a sampling receptacle is placed within a manual sampling container. The sampling receptacle may be a substantially open container configured to receive resin and may be disposed within a sampling chamber of the manual sampling container to receive resin from an inlet of the tank. As described above, the sampling receptacle 158 may be placed in the sampling chamber 152 of the manual sampling container 150 substantially below the inlet 154 of the manual sampling container 150. In some embodiments, a valve at a bottom of the manual sampling container is closed to prevent resin from flowing out of the manual sampling container.

[0174] At 304, a valve to a sample intake is opened such that resin may flow from a reactor into an inlet of a sample intake component. The valve may be opened such that preparing resin in the reactor may flow into the sample intake component. As described above, the sampling valve 118 may be in the closed position and the first valve 176 may be moved to an open position such that resin may flow from the outlet 104 of the reactor 102 into the inlet 112 of the sample intake component 110. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more command outputs which cause the first valve 176 to move to the open position.

[0175] In some embodiments, the metering valve 117 is used to meter or otherwise control the flow of resin into the sample intake component 110. After the first valve 176 is moved to the open position, and while the sampling valve 118 is in the closed position, the metering valve 117 may be moved between the closed and open positions to control the amount of resin that is delivered to the sampling valve 118. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more command outputs which cause the metering valve 117 to move between the closed and open positions such that a predetermined amount or volume of resin is supplied to the sampling valve 118.

[0176] At 306, a sampling valve in the sample intake component is directed to direct the resin from the reactor toward a sampling receptacle in the manual sampling container. The sampling valve may be moved into an open position relative to the sampling chamber of the manual sampling container such that the received resin may flow into the sampling chamber of the manual sampling container. As described above, the sampling valve 118 may be moved to an openposition relative to the manual sampling container 150 such that the resin from the reactor 102 flows into the sampling chamber 152 of the manual sampling container. In some embodiments, the amount the sampling valve 118 is opened is controlled or otherwise varied during the deposition of resin. For example, the sampling valve 118 may be opened 50%, may be opened 100%, may be opened incrementally (e.g., in 25% increments), and / or the like. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more output commands which cause the sampling valve 118 to move to the open position relative to manual sampling container 150.

[0177] In some embodiments, one or both of the first valve 176 and the metering valve 117 are moved to the closed position before the sampling valve 118 is moved to a position to direct resin into the manual sampling container 150. For example, the first valve 176 and / or the metering valve 117 may be moved to the closed positions in embodiments in which the reactor 102 is pressurized.

[0178] At 308, the sampling receptacle is filled with resin. The valve to the sample intake component and / or the sampling valve may be opened relative to the sampling chamber of the manual sampling container, such as being repeatedly opened and closed, until the sampling receptacle is sufficiently filled with resin. As described above, the system controller 190 may generate output commands which cause the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, and the sampling valve 118 to open and close relative to the manual sampling container 150 until the sampling receptacle 158 is sufficiently filled with resin. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates output commands which cause the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, and the sampling valve 118 to move to the open position for predetermined periods of time such that the sampling receptacle 158 may be sufficiently filled autonomously. In other embodiments, the manual sampling container 150 includes a liquid level sensor configured to generate one or more outputs indicative of the amount of resin within the sampling receptacle 158. The system controller 190 may receive the outputs of the liquid level sensor as inputs. When the liquid level sensor generates an output indicative of the sampling receptacle 158 being substantially filled, the system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs which cause the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, and / or the sampling valve 118 to close with respect to the manual sampling container 150 and prevents the flow of additional resin to the sampling receptacle 158.

[0179] In some embodiments, steps 304 and 306 are repeated a predetermined number of times, such as based upon the resin being prepared, including the opening and closing of the valves. For example, as described above, after the valve to the sample intake has been opened for a predetermined period such that an amount of resin has been provided into the sample intake component, the valve to the sample intake component may be moved to a closed position and thesampling valve may be moved to an open position. In some embodiments, the sampling valve 118 is opened incrementally (e.g., in 25% increments) to control the flow of resin into the sampling receptacle 158. After the sampling valve has been opened for a predetermined period of time (e.g., an amount of time sufficient to dispense the resin in the sample intake component), the sampling valve 118 may be closed and the valve to the sample intake component may be reopened such that the process may be repeated as many times as required. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more output commands which cause the first valve 176, the metering valve 117, and the sampling valve 118 to move between the open and closed positions over a predetermined period of time to control the deposition of resin into the sampling receptacle 158.

[0180] At 310, the sampling receptacle is manually cooled by a user. The user may extract the sampling receptacle from the sampling chamber of the manual sampling container and place the sampling receptacle in contact with ice, such as within an ice bath, and / or manually stir the resin to a desired temperature (e.g., about 25°C). As described above, a user may open a door to the sampling chamber 152, manually extract the sampling receptacle 158 from the manual sampling container 150, and manually cool the resin in the sampling receptacle 158 by placing the sampling receptacle 158 in ice and stirring the resin.

[0181] In some embodiments, step 310 may be omitted. For example, as discussed above, the system 100 may be used with resin and / or samples which do not require cooling before testing. In such embodiments, the methodology 300 may proceed to step 312 from step 308.

[0182] At 312, the cooled resin is manually sampled. For example, as described above a user may place one or more sensors, such as a viscometer, a pH meter, and the like into the resin contained in the sampling receptacle to obtain predetermined properties of the sampled resin. In some embodiments, the user may provide the measured values to the system controller 190 as inputs, such as via the user interface 198.

[0183] At 314, the sampled resin is dumped back into the system. The sampled resin may be dumped into a reserve tank within the system such that sampled resin may be contained until being reintroduced back to the reactor for further resin preparation. For example, the user may pour the contents of the sampling receptacle into a bottom of the manual sampling container and a valve between the manual sampling container and the reserve tank may be opened such that the sampled resin drains from the outlet of the manual sampling container and into the reserve tank. As described above, the third valve 180 may be moved to the open position such that resin dumped into the sampling chamber 152 flows out of the outlet 156 of the manual sampling container 150and into the second input port 164 of the reserve tank 160. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more commands which cause the third valve 180 to move to the open position.

[0184] At 316, the resin preparation process is adjusted, such as based upon the measured properties of the sampled resin. A user may enter the measured values of the resin into the system controller 190, such as via the user interface 198, and the system controller 190 may be configured to adjust the resin preparation process based upon the measure inputs. For example, the system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs which cause the fifth valve 184 to move to the open position such that an acidic substance is dispensed from the supply tank 174 when the outputs of the sensors indicate the pH level of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 is too high or the system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs which cause the fifth valve 184 to move to the open position such that a basic substance is dispensed from the supply tank 174 when the outputs of the sensors indicate that the pH level of the resin in the sampling cavity 122 is too low. The reintroduction of the resin in the reserve tank 160 into the reactor 102 may correct the resin preparation process accordingly. Further, the system controller 190 may generate one or more output commands which cause the preparing batch of resin to be neutralized, such as if there are large variations in measured viscosity.

[0185] In some embodiments, the system controller 190 may generate one or more outputs or prompts on the user interface 198 for a user to take action to control or correct the resin preparation process based upon the measured outputs.

[0186] At 318, sampled resin is reintroduced to the reactor. A valve between the reserve tank and the reactor may be opened such that the sampled resin and the resin used for flushing the sampling cavity may be reintroduced to the reactor, such as for continued resin preparation. As described above, the fourth valve 182 may be moved to an open position such that resin in the reserve tank 160 may flow from the outlet port 170 and into the inlet 106 of the reactor 102. The pump 172 may also be actuated to assist in in transferring the contents of the reserve tank 160 to the reactor 102. In other embodiments, resin in the reserve tank 160 is reintroduced into the reactor 102 via the return valve 118 and the first valve 176. In some embodiments, the system controller 190 generates one or more output commands which cause the pump 172 to operate to pump the contents of the reserve tank 160 into the reactor 102.

[0187] The method 300 may be repeated as many times as required during the preparation and / or manufacture of a given resin.

[0188] While the above systems and methods have been described with reference to the preparation and sampling of resins and resin mixtures, it will be understood that the components and methods discussed above may be implemented as part of other processes. For example, the above components and methods may be implemented in other processes with an in-line heat exchanger, such as in formaldehyde related systems and / or in systems containing a storage container for sampled substances.

[0189] While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the disclosures may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts, and features may be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present application. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as to the various aspects, concepts, and features of the disclosures — such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, devices, and components, alternatives as to form, fit, and function, and so on — may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or later developed. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or more of the inventive aspects, concepts, or features into additional embodiments and uses within the scope of the present application even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein.

[0190] Additionally, even though some features, concepts, or aspects of the disclosures may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. Still further, exemplary or representative values and ranges may be included to assist in understanding the present application, however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges only if so expressly stated.

[0191] Moreover, while various aspects, features and concepts may be expressly identified herein as being inventive or forming part of a disclosure, such identification is not intended to be exclusive, but rather there may be inventive aspects, concepts, and features that are fully described herein without being expressly identified as such or as part of a specific disclosure, the disclosures instead being set forth in the appended claims. Descriptions of exemplary methods or processes are not limited to inclusion of all steps as being required in all cases, nor is the order that the steps are presented to be construed as required or necessary unless expressly so stated. The words usedin the claims have their full ordinary meanings and are not limited in any way by the descriptionof the embodiments in the specification.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A resin sampling system for use in a resin preparation process, the system comprising:a reactor having an inlet and an outlet;a sample intake component having an inlet in fluid communication with the outlet of the reactor, an outlet, and a sampling valve disposed between the inlet and the outlet of the sample intake component;an automated sampling container defining a sampling cavity and having an inlet in fluid communication with the outlet of the sample intake component;a viscometer disposed at least partially within the sampling cavity;a thermometer disposed at least partially within the sampling cavity;a pH meter disposed at least partially within the sampling cavity;an agitator disposed at least partially within the sampling cavity;a cooling element configured to cool resin in the sampling cavity; anda system controller comprising a processor and a memory, the system controller being configured to:cause the sampling valve to open to fill the sampling cavity with resin from the reactor;cause the agitator and cooling element to cool the resin to a predetermined temperature; andgenerate outputs indicative of a viscosity and a pH level of the resin in the sampling temperature when the thermometer generates an output indicative of a temperature of the resin reaching a predetermined temperature.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a reserve tank downstream of the sampling cavity and configured to receive sampled fluid.

3. The system of claims 1 or 2, wherein the system controller is further configured to open a valve between the reserve tank and the reactor such that resin in the reserve tank may be reintroduced into the reactor.

4. The system of any one of claims 1-3, further comprising a supply tank in fluid communication with the reserve tank comprising a substance to reintroduce into the reactor.

5. The system of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the system controller is further configured to adjust the resin preparation process based upon the viscosity and the pH level of the resin.

6. The system of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the cooling element is a cooling coil defining a side wall of the sampling cavity.

7. The system of any one of claims 1-6, further comprising a manual sampling container also in fluid communication with the sampling valve.

8. A method of sampling a resin during a resin preparation process, the method comprising:receiving the resin from a reactor in a sample intake component;directing the resin in the sample intake component to a sampling cavity;cooling the resin in the sampling cavity with an agitator and a cooling element in contact with the resin in the sampling cavity;measuring a temperature of the resin in the sampling cavity;measuring a viscosity and a pH level of the resin in the sampling cavity after the temperature of the resin reaches a predetermined temperature;wherein the cooling and measuring of the resin is in-line with sample intake component.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising flushing the sampling cavity with additional resin from the reactor.

10. The method of claims 8 or 9, further comprising reintroducing the resin into the reactor.

11. The method of any of claims 8-10, wherein the predetermined temperature is 25°C.

12. The method of any of claims 8-11, further comprising adjusting the resin preparation process based upon the one or more measured properties of the resin.

13. The method of any of claims 8-12, wherein adjusting the resin preparation process comprises introducing an acidic composition into the reserve tank.

14. The method of any of claims 8-13, wherein adjusting the resin preparation process comprises introducing a basic composition into the reserve tank.

15. A method of sampling a resin during a resin preparation process, the method comprising:receiving resin from a reactor in a sample intake component;directing the resin in the sample intake component toward a sampling container; filling a sampling receptacle disposed in the sampling container with resin;cooling the resin in the sampling receptacle to a predetermined temperature; measuring one or more properties of the resin;dispensing the sampled resin into a reserve tank; andadjusting the resin preparation process based upon the one or more measured properties of the resin;wherein the sampling receptacle is filled autonomously.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising reintroducing the sampled resin into the reactor.

17. The method of claims 15 or 16, wherein directing the resin and filling the sample receptacle are performed by a system controller comprising a processor and a memory.

18. The method of any of claims 15-17, wherein adjusting the resin preparation process comprises introducing an acidic composition into the reserve tank.

19. The method of any of claims 15-18, wherein adjusting the resin preparation process comprises introducing a basic composition into the reserve tank.

20. The method of any of claims 15-19, wherein the one or more properties of the resin comprises the viscosity of the resin.

21. A resin sampling system for use in a resin preparation process, the system comprising:a means for sampling the resin into a sampling chamber;one or more means for measuring one or more properties of the resin;a means for agitating the resin;a means for cooling the resin;a means for controlling the sampling and measuring of the resin; anda means for reporting the one or more measured properties of the resin.

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