Remote Chemical Crossover Sampling for Contamination Verification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional remote sampling systems in ICP spectrometry are limited by one-to-one connections, which do not facilitate source contamination verification and system redundancy, leading to potential contamination issues and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A remote sampling system that allows selective connection of multiple sample sources to multiple sample collection systems, enabling switching between sources and modules, and integrating with multiple analyzers for contamination verification and redundancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional one-to-one connections are used between sample sources and collection systems, then system simplicity is maintained, but contamination verification capability and system redundancy are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-port valve system that allows a single collection system to be connected to multiple sample sources and a single sample source to be connected to multiple collection systems. This universal connection capability enables one system to serve multiple functions: normal sampling, contamination verification by switching between sources, and operational redundancy. The valve assembly acts as a universal interface that resolves the contradiction by providing flexible connectivity without requiring separate dedicated lines for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamically switchable connections through electronically controlled multi-port valves that can change connection configurations in real-time. Instead of fixed one-to-one connections, the system dynamically routes samples between multiple sources and collection systems based on operational needs. This dynamic switching capability enables contamination verification by alternating between sources and provides redundancy by rerouting around problematic components, resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sample sources are connected to multiple collection systems with switching capability, then contamination verification and redundancy are enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple connection functions into a single integrated valve assembly. Rather than using separate valves and complex piping for each sample source and collection system combination, the multi-port valve consolidates multiple routing functions into one component. This merging approach provides the adaptability of multiple connections while minimizing the increase in physical complexity by using a compact, integrated valve design that handles multiple sources and destinations simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-port valve acts as an intermediary component that mediates between multiple sample sources and collection systems. Instead of creating direct complex connections between all sources and all collection systems, the valve serves as a centralized switching hub that simplifies the connection topology. This intermediary approach enables versatile source switching and contamination verification while keeping the overall system complexity manageable through centralized control.
3Ease of operation
If remote sampling is implemented for long-distance sample transport, then operational flexibility is improved, but sample contamination risk and system reliability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary cleaning actions by flushing the sample transport lines with cleaning solution between sample analyses. The system automatically performs this cleaning sequence before the next sample is introduced, preventing contamination from previous samples. This preliminary action maintains sample integrity during remote transport while preserving operational flexibility, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and sample reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous sample flow through the transport lines by implementing a continuous flushing mechanism that prevents sample stagnation. The system continuously circulates cleaning solution or maintains sample flow to prevent contamination buildup during long-distance transport. This continuous action ensures sample integrity is maintained throughout the remote sampling process while keeping the system easy to operate without requiring manual intervention between samples.
Data Source
AI summary
A sample analysis system is available that can include a remote sampling system, at least one analyzer, and a controller. The remote sampling system can include a plurality of sample sources for providing a corresponding sample therefrom; and a plurality of sample collection devices selectively coupled to any of the plurality of sample sources for receiving at least one of the samples therefrom. The at least one analyzer can be coupled to the plurality of the sample collection devices for receiving at least one of the samples therefrom. The controller can be coupled with the remote sampling system and the at least one analyzer, the controller configured to control which of the sample sources is actively coupled to a given sample collection device at a given time.