Fluidic Sample Dilution Apparatus with Dual-Mode Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for diluting fluidic samples struggle to achieve a precisely definable dilution ratio over a broad range, making it difficult to accurately adjust the concentration for detector compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A dilution apparatus comprising a dilution fluid supply, transport fluid supply, and control device that alternates between two operation modes to precisely control the flow of fluidic samples and dilution fluids, allowing for deterministic adjustment of the dilution ratio through predefined flow rates and switching cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional dilution methods are used, then the dilution process is simple to operate, but the dilution ratio cannot be precisely defined over a broad range
Solution Approach 1:
The dilution process is segmented into multiple discrete steps with predefined flow rates. The control device divides the continuous dilution process into controlled stages, where each stage has a specific dilution factor. This segmentation allows precise control over the overall dilution ratio by combining multiple precise partial dilutions, while keeping each individual step relatively simple to execute.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic switching between different operation modes (first operation mode and second operation mode) to achieve variable dilution ratios. The control device dynamically adjusts flow rates and switching timing based on the desired dilution factor, enabling precise dilution control over a broad range without requiring a completely different system for each dilution ratio.
2Measurement precision
If the dilution apparatus uses predefined flow rates and switching cycles, then the dilution ratio can be precisely controlled, but the system requires multiple fluid supply devices and accommodation units
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second fluid accommodation units serve multiple functions: they store fluidic sample, hold diluted mixtures, and facilitate the switching between operation modes. The control device manages multiple functions (flow rate control, timing, mode switching) through a single integrated unit. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining precise dilution control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic switching between the first and second operation modes to achieve precise dilution ratios. By controlling the frequency and duration of mode switching, the system can precisely define dilution ratios through time-based control. This periodic action allows the same physical components to be reused in different configurations, reducing the number of permanent components needed compared to a system that would require separate pathways for each dilution ratio.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the system alternates between two operation modes, then precise dilution over a broad range is achieved, but the operation cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous useful action by alternating between two operation modes without idle periods. While one mode performs dilution, the other mode prepares for the next cycle or handles fluid transfer. This continuous operation ensures that the system is always productive, minimizing non-productive time. The predefined flow rates are optimized to ensure that each mode completes its function efficiently, reducing the overall cycle time while maintaining broad dilution range capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions during each operation mode to prepare for the next mode. For example, while diluting in one mode, the system simultaneously positions fluids and controls flow rates for the subsequent mode. This preliminary preparation reduces the transition time between modes and ensures that when switching occurs, the system is already ready for the next dilution step, thereby minimizing the overall cycle time despite the multiple modes required for broad dilution 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
Enables precise and efficient dilution of fluidic samples to any desired concentration, ensuring detector compatibility and allowing for high-precision dilution ratios, even at extreme levels, with a simple and compact system.
Implementation Method 1
the fluidic sample, being accommodated in the first fluid accommodation unit, is forced to flow to the second fluid accommodation unit while being diluted by being mixed with dilution fluid
Implementation Method 2
a control device configured for controlling flow conditions of the dilution fluid, the transport fluid and the fluidic sample
Data Source
AI summary
A dilution apparatus (100) for diluting a fluidic sample in accordance with a specifiable dilution ratio, wherein the dilution apparatus (100) comprises a dilution fluid supply device (102) configured for supplying a dilution fluid at a first quantity per time, a transport fluid supply device (104) configured for supplying a transport fluid at a second quantity per time, a first fluid accommodation unit (106) configured for accommodating a first fluid volume, a second fluid accommodation unit (108) configured for accommodating a second fluid volume, and a control device (110, 112) configured for controlling the flow of the dilution fluid, the transport fluid and the fluidic sample so that in a first operation mode, the fluidic sample, being accommodated in the first fluid accommodation unit (106), is forced to flow to the second fluid accommodation unit (108) while being diluted by being mixed with dilution fluid, and in a second operation mode, the mixture of dilution fluid and fluidic sample, being accommodated in the second fluid accommodation unit (108), is forced to flow from the second fluid accommodation unit (108) to the first fluid accommodation unit (106) while being further diluted by being mixed with further dilution fluid.