Rail-Based Autosampler Vertical Stacking and Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rail-based autosamplers face limitations in analyzing gas sampling containers for volatile organic compounds due to inability to handle quantitative sample volume measurement at varying pressures, manual calibration challenges, and long transfer lines that lead to compound loss and reduced accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A rail-based autosampler system with a sampling platform, x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis rails, a pickup tool, and a sampling wand, utilizing magnetic identifications for automated calibration and a vacuum reservoir for pressure-controlled sample extraction, reducing transfer line length and eliminating the need for additional gases during sample collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If long transfer lines are used to deliver samples from large sample containers to the preconcentration unit, then the sample can be delivered, but compound recovery is reduced and carryover increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from horizontal sample container placement to vertical stacking arrangement, allowing sample containers to be positioned directly above the preconcentration unit. This dimensional change enables direct vertical sample transfer through the sampling wand, eliminating the need for long horizontal transfer lines and thereby improving compound recovery while reducing carryover.
2Measurement precision
If standard syringes are used to withdraw samples from containers at varying pressures, then sample extraction is possible, but quantitative volume measurement becomes inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a pressure-controlled sampling mechanism that actively adjusts and equalizes pressure between the sample container and the sampling system before and during sample withdrawal. This parameter control ensures that samples are always drawn at atmospheric pressure conditions, enabling accurate volumetric measurement with standard syringes regardless of the container's initial pressure state, while simultaneously handling both positive and negative pressure containers.
3Extent of automation
If manual calibration procedures are used for the autosampler, then system setup is possible, but automation and reliability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates magnetic identification clamps that enable the autosampler to automatically identify, locate, and calibrate its own components without human intervention. The magnetic tags on clamps provide unique identifiers that the system uses to automatically determine component positions and perform calibration routines, thereby achieving both full automation and high reliability through consistent, error-free calibration execution.
4Area of stationary object
If sample containers are placed horizontally on the sampling platform, then access is possible, but the system consumes more bench space
Solution Approach 1:
The system reorients sample container placement from horizontal to vertical positioning on the sampling platform. Sample containers are stacked vertically with their openings facing downward, allowing the sampling wand to access samples by moving vertically along the container stack. This vertical arrangement dramatically reduces the horizontal bench space required while maintaining easy access through the automated vertical movement of the sampling wand.
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 accurate measurement and analysis of large gas samples across varying pressures without compound loss, automates calibration to prevent system malfunctions, and reduces carryover and contamination, improving analytical accuracy and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum reservoir for pressure-controlled sample extraction
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosure relate to chemical analysis systems, including autosampler systems. In some embodiments, an autosampler system can analyze gas phase samples using a single inlet for better consistency. The autosampler system can move the sample container closer to the sample introduction/preconcentration system prior to accessing the contents of the container to reduce exposure of the sample to reactive surfaces. The autosampler system is able to couple the sample containers to a sampling wand automatically, thereby eliminating the need to pre-attach each container using a gas transfer line. The autosampler system can be disposed on top of a chemical analysis system (e.g., a GC or GCMS), thereby conserving laboratory bench space. In some embodiments, the modules (e.g., sample trays, thermal conditioning systems, support legs) of the autosampler system can be coupled to the autosampler system using clamps that include magnetic codes associated with autocalibration information.