Conical Vial Mixing for Homogeneous Sequential Fluid Injection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid manipulation technologies, such as sequential injection analysis systems, face challenges in achieving homogeneous mixing of multiple fluid components due to restrictive geometry in narrow-bore capillary tubing, are complex, and inefficient for mixing fluids with different viscosities or small volumes, limiting their applicability in automated fluid analysis systems.
Innovation Solution
A sequential injection sample analysis system utilizing enclosed conical vials as mixing chambers, equipped with a vial block for temperature control and bi-directional syringe pumps, allows for efficient mixing of fluids by creating turbulence and enabling access from both ends, facilitating complete homogeneous mixing of small and large volumes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If mixing is performed in narrow-bore capillary tubing, then the device complexity is reduced, but homogeneous mixing of multiple fluid components becomes nearly impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional mixing in narrow-bore capillary tubing to three-dimensional mixing in a vial-based chamber. This dimensional change allows fluid segments to be manipulated in multiple spatial directions, enabling complete mixing of multiple components while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through the use of standard vials and basic pumping mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the fluid handling process into discrete segments that are manipulated sequentially within the vial chamber. Fluid segments are introduced, mixed, and then cleared in distinct steps, allowing complete mixing of multiple components without requiring complex continuous-flow mixing mechanisms.
2Stability of the object's composition
If mixing chambers with stir bars are used, then complete mixing of multiple components is achieved, but a large volume of solution is required to clear the chamber
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the mixing function from large-volume continuous flow chambers and concentrates it into small-volume vial-based chambers. By using bi-directional syringe pumps to aspirate and dispense fluid segments through the vial, the system achieves complete mixing in minimal volume and then efficiently clears the chamber by reversing the pumping direction, dramatically reducing the solution volume required compared to traditional stirred-tank approaches.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic aspiration and dispensing cycles to achieve mixing and clearing of the vial chamber. The bi-directional syringe pump alternates between drawing fluid into the vial and expelling it, creating periodic flow patterns that ensure complete mixing during the fill phase and efficient clearing during the empty phase, minimizing the total solution volume required.
3Stability of the object's composition
If mechanical stirring components are included in the syringe, then proper mixing is achieved, but the degree of content expulsion is limited and mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical stirring components (such as magnetic stir bars or internal mixing elements) with a fluid-dynamic mixing approach. The bi-directional syringe pump creates mixing through repeated aspiration and dispensing actions that generate turbulent flow and fluid segmentation within the vial chamber. This substitution eliminates the need for additional mechanical mixing components, reducing device complexity while achieving thorough mixing through fluid motion alone.
4Quantity of substance
If traditional mixing chambers are used, then mixing capacity is sufficient, but the system cannot handle small fluid volumes effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic fluid handling using bi-directional syringe pumps that can precisely control small volumes through rapid aspiration and dispensing cycles. The system adapts its operation based on the volume being handled, using multiple small segments for tiny volumes and fewer larger segments for bigger volumes. This dynamic approach allows the same vial-based chamber to effectively handle both microliter and milliliter scales with high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters such as pumping speed, segment size, and number of cycles to optimize mixing for different volume ranges. By adjusting these parameters, the system maintains effective mixing and precise volume control whether handling 10 microliters or 10 milliliters, making the system versatile across multiple scales without requiring different hardware for each volume range.
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
The system achieves efficient, homogeneous mixing of fluids with reduced mechanical complexity, supports temperature-controlled reactions, and allows for automated handling of various fluid volumes, enhancing the feasibility of automated fluid analysis systems.
Implementation Method 1
The conical bottom of the enclosed conical vial promotes turbulence as the liquid components are dispensed into the enclosed conical vial
Implementation Method 2
The sequential injection sample analysis system houses the enclosed conical vial in a vial block that allows the attachment of a temperature control element for heating (to promote chemical reactions) or cooling (to prevent degradation) of the liquids
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a sequential injection analysis system and method for mixing fluids. The sequential injection analysis system includes a fluid pumping device configured for aspirating and dispensing fluids, at least one multi-position stream selection device and a conical vial enclosure. The conical vial enclosure includes a vial top cap, a vial bottom cap and a vial block positioned between the vial top cap and the vial bottom cap. The vial block includes vial holes wherein each vial hole is configured to receive an enclosed conical vial. The present invention provides homogeneous mixing of fluid samples with liquid reagent solutions.