Holding Tube Powder Insertion for Particle Size Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods face challenges in reliably and automatically inserting a powder sample into a sample introduction unit of a particle size distribution measurement device, particularly due to difficulties in scooping and collecting the powder sample using a dispensing spoon or robot.

Innovation Solution

A sample inserting device with a holding tube that moves between collection and insertion positions, using a movement mechanism to collect and extrude the powder sample, and an extrusion mechanism to insert it into the sample introduction unit, aided by a control unit for automated operation and adjustment based on transmitted light information.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If a robot operates a dispensing spoon to automatically insert powder sample, then automation is achieved, but reliable collection and insertion of powder sample cannot be performed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation of sample insertionVSAvoidreliability of powder collection and insertion

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion device is divided into functionally independent components: a holding tube for collecting powder sample, a movement mechanism for positioning, and an extrusion mechanism for delivering the sample. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, enabling reliable automated operation that was not achievable with a conventional dispensing spoon.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The holding tube serves as an intermediary tool between the powder container and the sample introduction unit. It reliably collects the powder sample through its tip opening portion and transports it to the insertion position, where the extrusion mechanism then delivers the sample. This intermediary mechanism solves the reliability problem of direct robot operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Quantity of substance

If dispensing spoon is used to collect powder sample, then sample collection is possible, but reliable collection especially of small amounts of powder cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveamount of powder sample collectedVSAvoidreliability of powder collection

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The holding tube is designed with a specific local structure at its tip opening portion that is optimized for collecting small amounts of powder. The tip opening portion has a specific geometry and position that allows reliable collection of small quantities (1-10 mg) of powder sample, addressing the limitation of conventional dispensing spoons.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If manual insertion method is used, then reliable sample insertion is possible, but automation and efficiency are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereliability of sample insertionVSAvoidefficiency of sample insertion

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion device is designed to perform the insertion operation autonomously without manual intervention. The movement mechanism automatically positions the holding tube, and the extrusion mechanism automatically delivers the powder sample to the sample introduction unit. This self-service capability maintains the reliability of manual insertion while achieving automation and improved efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 device enables reliable and automated insertion of powder samples into the sample introduction unit, ensuring accurate measurement by adjusting the sample amount, and preventing contamination and scattering.

Implementation Method 1

an extrusion mechanism that extrudes the powder sample held in the tip opening portion to outside from the tip opening portion

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGas pressure: Pressure Increase

Data Source

PatentUS20260086012A1Sample inserting device, sample inserting system, particle size distribution measurement system, and sample inserting method

Publication Date: 2026.03.26 HORIBA LTD

AI summary

An embodiment of the present invention reliably inserts a powder sample into a sample introduction unit of a particle size distribution measurement device while automating the insertion of the powder sample, and includes: a movement mechanism that moves a holding tube capable of holding a powder sample in a tip opening portion between a collection position at which the tip opening portion is inserted into the powder sample in a sample container to collect the powder sample and an insertion position at which the powder sample is inserted into a sample introduction unit; and an extrusion mechanism that extrudes the powder sample held in the tip opening portion to outside from the tip opening portion in a state where the holding tube is at the insertion position.