Automatic Analysis Device With Downstream pH Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic analysis devices face challenges in measuring pH without affecting colorimetric and ISE analyses, requiring additional sample amounts and potentially reducing processing capability due to separate pH measurement units and carryover concerns.
Innovation Solution
The device integrates a pH measurement mechanism downstream of sample dispensing mechanisms, allowing pH measurement after ISE and colorimetric analyses, with a dedicated cleaning system to minimize carryover and maintain processing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pH measurement unit is provided in the automatic analysis device, then pH measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases and processing capability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pH measurement unit is merged with the existing sample dispensing system by integrating the pH electrode into the sample dispensing mechanism. The pH measurement is performed by dispensing the sample onto the pH electrode, which is positioned in the sample dispensing unit, rather than requiring a separate dedicated pH measurement chamber or mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample dispensing mechanism is given multi-functionality by enabling it to perform both the original dispensing function for colorimetric and ISE analyses and the additional function of pH measurement. The same dispensing mechanism and sample handling system are used for all three types of analyses, eliminating the need for separate dedicated structures.
2Productivity
If pH measurement is performed before colorimetric analysis, then pH measurement is completed, but measurement accuracy of colorimetric analysis deteriorates due to sample concentration changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by preparing and dispensing separate sample aliquots for each type of analysis. The sample is dispensed onto different analysis surfaces (colorimetric reaction vessels, ISE measurement surface, and pH electrode) in a controlled sequence, ensuring that each analysis receives fresh sample material at the appropriate time.
3Measurement precision
If a separate dedicated pH measurement device is used, then pH measurement accuracy is improved, but additional sample amount is required and processing capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pH measurement function is merged into the existing sample dispensing system, allowing the same sample volume to be used for pH measurement, colorimetric analysis, and ISE analysis. The sample is dispensed onto the pH electrode which is positioned in the sample dispensing unit, eliminating the need for separate dedicated measurement chambers and reducing total sample consumption.
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
Enables simultaneous pH, ISE, and colorimetric analyses without reducing processing capability, ensuring accurate results and reducing user burden by integrating pH measurement without additional sample requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a pH measurement mechanism 34 configured to measure pH of the sample
Implementation Method 2
an ISE measurement unit 32 configured to measure an electrolyte concentration of the sample
Implementation Method 3
a spectrophotometer 14 configured to measure a biochemical item of the sample
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention comprises : an ISE measurement unit 32 that measures the electrolyte concentration of a sample; a spectrophotometer 14 that measures biochemical parameters of a sample; a pH measurement mechanism 34 that measures the pH of a sample; sample dispensing mechanisms 21, 22 that dispense the sample for measurement in the ISE measurement unit 32 or the spectrophotometer 14 from a container that contains the sample; and a conveyance mechanism 27 that conveys the container. The conveyance mechanism 27, the sample dispensing mechanisms 21, 22, and the pH measurement mechanism 34 are disposed such that the dispensing of the sample by the pH measurement mechanism 34 for pH measurement, or pH measurement, is performed after the dispensing of the sample by the sample dispensing mechanisms 21, 22.