In-situ Fluid Sample Collection System for Groundwater Analysis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for collecting groundwater samples are prone to contamination and degradation due to exposure to ambient environments, leading to inaccurate sample concentration and loss of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the sampling process.
Innovation Solution
A fluid sample collection system that directly collects samples from a fluid source without exposing them to the ambient environment, using a fluid collector with a sample vial and cap access facilitator, and a fluid line to transmit the sample directly to the collector, preventing exposure to the surrounding environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional groundwater sampling methods are used (pump retrieval to surface, transfer to container), then sample collection is achievable, but sample concentration accuracy deteriorates due to VOC loss and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an in-situ sampling device that acts as an intermediary between the groundwater source and the analysis container. This device includes a sampling chamber positioned at the pump discharge end, which captures the groundwater sample directly at the source before any potential contamination or VOC loss can occur during transfer operations
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling chamber is pre-positioned and prepared at the groundwater source location before sampling begins. The device is lowered to the required depth and the sampling chamber is ready to receive the sample directly from the pump discharge, eliminating the need for subsequent transfer operations that could compromise sample integrity
2Loss of substance
If rapid transfer methods are used to minimize exposure time, then VOC loss is reduced, but sample handling complexity and potential for error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sampling chamber, sealing mechanism, and sample containment functions into a single integrated device that remains in-situ. The sampling chamber is sealed directly at the source using an integrated cap or closure mechanism, eliminating the need for separate transfer operations between multiple containers or locations
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transfer operations are performed (from pump to vial to storage), then sample collection flexibility is improved, but contamination risk and sample degradation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling chamber is designed as a nested structure where the sample containment vessel is positioned within the sampling chamber assembly. The sample is captured in the chamber and then sealed within the same device housing, creating a nested containment system that protects the sample throughout the collection process without requiring external transfer operations
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid sample collection system for directly collecting a fluid sample from a fluid source includes a fluid collector and a fluid line. The fluid collector includes (i) a sample vial including a sample vial body and a vial cap that is selectively coupled and sealed to the sample vial body; (ii) a collector body that defines a passenger vial chamber, the sample vial being positioned at least partially within the passenger vial chamber during collection of the fluid; and (iii) a cap access facilitator that is configured to engage a portion of the sample vial to enable a user to selectively couple the vial cap to the sample vial body to seal the sample vial so that the fluid is retained within the sample vial. The fluid line extends between the fluid source and the fluid collector to substantially directly transmit the fluid sample to the fluid collector without exposing the fluid sample to the ambient environment that surrounds the fluid sample collection system.