Automated Dioxin Pretreatment Cartridges for Consistent Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual and time-consuming nature of the purification and concentration steps in dioxin analysis leads to variability in analysis results due to dependence on the skill level of the analyst.
Innovation Solution
A pre-treating system and method that automates the process using a cartridge station, pipetting device, vial shaker, drying chamber, and reservoir processing unit, with components like pipette modules, vial capping devices, and cartridge purifying devices to streamline the extraction, purification, and concentration of dioxins in waste samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual purification and concentration steps are performed, then analysis results can be obtained, but analysis time increases and results vary depending on analyst skill level
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated liquid handling system that uses robotic arms, automated pipettes, and computer-controlled mechanisms to perform extraction, purification, and concentration steps. This substitution eliminates human skill variability and significantly reduces processing time while maintaining consistent analysis results.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-contained cartridges with pre-packed sorbent materials that automatically perform purification functions when solvent is passed through them. The automated system also self-regulates flow rates, timing, and sequence of operations without human intervention, enabling consistent results independent of operator skill level.
2Productivity
If manual purification and concentration steps are performed, then analysis can be completed, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the complex pre-treatment process into distinct modular stages: extraction, purification through separate cartridges, concentration, and preparation. Each stage is handled by specialized components (extraction vessels, purification cartridges, concentration devices) that can be automatically sequenced, reducing overall process complexity despite the multiple steps involved.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated liquid handling system serves multiple functions including precise liquid transfer, automated pipetting, cartridge handling, and sequence control. This multi-functional automation platform manages the entire pre-treatment workflow, simplifying the complexity of coordinating multiple manual operations while significantly improving productivity.
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 automation reduces variability in analysis results and significantly shortens the pre-treating time, enhancing analysis efficiency and consistency.
Implementation Method 1
a vial shaker on which at least one first vial containing a sample to be analyzed and a second vial containing a standard sample having known characteristics including component and concentration are mounted, the vial shaker being configured to shake the mounted first and second vials
Implementation Method 2
a drying chamber in which at least one reservoir is mounted and configured to dry a solution in the at least one reservoir
Implementation Method 3
a reservoir processing unit configured to be selectively coupled to the at least one reservoir to spray a solvent into the at least one reservoir
Implementation Method 4
a cartridge purifying device configured to be selectively coupled to an upper end portion of the at least one cartridge to spray a solvent into the at least one cartridge
Data Source
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AI summary
A pre-treating system for measuring an effective component is disclosed. The pre-treating system for measuring the effective component may include a cartridge station on which at least one cartridge is mounted; a pipetting device configured to inject a sample or a standard sample into an inside of the at least one cartridge; a vial shaker on which at least one first vial containing a sample to be analyzed and a second vial containing a standard sample having known characteristics including component and concentration are mounted, the vial shaker being configured to shake the mounted first and second vials; a drying chamber in which at least one reservoir is mounted and configured to dry a solution in the at least one reservoir; and a reservoir processing unit configured to be selectively coupled to the at least one reservoir to spray a solvent into the at least one reservoir. A pre-treating method executed using the pre-treating system is further disclosed.