Automatic Analysis Apparatus with In-Unit Dilution for High Concentrations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photometric analyzers have a limited measuring range, making it difficult to accurately measure concentrations above the measuring range end without either shortening the path length or diluting the sample, both of which have systematic disadvantages.
Innovation Solution
The method involves providing a reaction mixture with a reagent in the analysis apparatus, detecting a first measurement variable, and if it's outside the measuring range, detecting a second measurement variable to determine the necessary dilution, followed by re-detection of the first measurement variable after dilution, allowing for an optimized dilution ratio within the measurement unit without emptying it.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the path length is shortened to measure high concentrations, then the measuring range end is increased, but the measuring range beginning is also increased, reducing the measurement ratio and accuracy for low concentrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path length adjustment within the measurement unit. The system can change the optical path length during operation to adapt to different concentration ranges, allowing the measuring range end to be extended without permanently increasing the measuring range beginning. This dynamic adjustment maintains the measurement ratio and precision for low concentrations while enabling high concentration measurements.
2Quantity of substance
If the sample is diluted prior to measurement to measure high concentrations, then the measuring range end is increased, but the analysis time is increased and sample consumption is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary dilution of the sample within the measurement unit before the actual measurement. This preliminary action is integrated into the measurement process itself, allowing the system to handle high concentration samples without requiring separate pre-dilution steps in additional vessels. The dilution is performed automatically as part of the measurement sequence, reducing overall analysis time while maintaining the ability to measure high concentrations.
3Quantity of substance
If the sample is diluted prior to measurement to measure high concentrations, then the measuring range end is increased, but the sample consumption is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds the dilution process within the measurement unit structure itself. The measurement unit is designed to accommodate both the sample and the dilution medium in an integrated manner, where the dilution occurs within the same spatial constraints as the measurement. This nesting approach allows high concentration measurements without requiring separate dilution vessels, thereby reducing overall sample consumption while maintaining the extended measuring range end.
4Quantity of substance
If various path lengths are offered to measure different concentrations, then the measuring range is extended, but the device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing multiple fixed path length options, the patent implements a dynamic path length adjustment mechanism within a single measurement unit. The system can automatically change the optical path length during operation based on the sample concentration, eliminating the need for multiple separate measurement units or complex mechanical assemblies. This dynamic approach extends the measuring range while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach increases the measurement ratio of the analysis apparatus without expanding the measuring range beginning, reduces analysis time, and minimizes the consumption of dilution solution, enabling more accurate and efficient concentration measurements.
Implementation Method 1
the absorption (extinction) Eλ is a function of the decadic extinction coefficient ελ, the concentration c and the path length (length of the light path in the solution) d. This law is described by the Lambert-Beer law.
Implementation Method 2
When a solution of such a substance is irradiated with light, the absorption (extinction) Eλ is a function of the decadic extinction coefficient ελ
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method of operating an automatic analysis apparatus for determining a parameter of a sample liquid which depends on the concentration of an analyte in the sample liquid on the basis of a first measurement variable detected by the analysis apparatus, wherein the analysis apparatus comprises an optical measuring transducer with a measurement unit, the method including: a) providing a reaction mixture comprising the sample liquid in the measurement unit; b) detecting a first measurement variable for determining the parameter; c) detecting a second measurement variable if step b) reveals that the concentration of the analyte in the reaction mixture is outside the measuring range of the analysis apparatus for detecting the first measurement variable; d) diluting the reaction mixture with dilution liquid as a function of the second measurement variable; and e) re-detecting the first measurement variable for determining the parameter.