In Situ Sampling Device With Extendable Capture Pocket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sampling devices lack precision in timing and automation for sample capture, cannot operate under pressure, and require sample transfer before processing, leading to changes in sample conditions between extraction and processing.
Innovation Solution
A sampling device with an extendable sample capture element that allows for contemporaneous sample capture and processing, capable of operating in pressurized environments and across a wide temperature range, featuring a sealed unit with quench and dilution ports for immediate processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hand-operated sampling device is used, then the device can be operated manually, but precision in timing of sample capture and automation capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated robotic arm system that uses computer control to position and operate the sampling device. The robotic arm can be programmed to achieve precise timing and positioning, eliminating the timing imprecision inherent in manual operation while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
2Ease of operation
If a hand-operated sampling device is used, then the device can be operated manually, but automation capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling device is designed with universal functionality that allows it to operate in both manual and automated modes. The device includes a standardized interface that can accommodate both hand-operated control and robotic arm actuation, enabling the same hardware to serve multiple operational modes depending on the specific application requirements.
3Ease of operation
If a hand-operated sampling device is used, then the device can sample at atmospheric pressure, but the ability to sample under pressure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling device incorporates a pressure-equalization mechanism that allows the sampling chamber to equilibrate with the reaction vessel pressure before sampling. This enables the device to operate across a wide pressure range from atmospheric to high pressure conditions by dynamically adjusting the pressure parameters of the sampling environment to match the source vessel.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a by-pass sampling device is used, then sampling under pressure is enabled, but reaction volume requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device extracts a small, controlled aliquot of reaction mixture through a sealed sampling needle that penetrates the reaction vessel closure. This extraction method allows sampling under pressure without requiring a by-pass loop or large reaction volume, as the sampling occurs directly from the reaction vessel through a minimal opening that maintains pressure integrity.
5Extent of automation
If known automated devices are used, then automation is achieved, but contemporaneous quenching with sample capture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling device merges the sampling and quenching functions into a single integrated operation. The robotic arm positions the sampling needle to capture the reaction mixture, and quenching reagents are simultaneously delivered to the sampling chamber through the same automated sequence, eliminating the time delay between sampling and quenching that occurs in separate-step automated systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
An in situ sampling device for capturing a material sample from a vessel. Embodiments of the present invention may be disposed as elongate probes having extendable sample capture elements. A sample capture element of such a device may include a concave sample capture pocket located near a distal end thereof. The sample capture pocket is adapted to capture a known volume of material when the sample capture element is extended into said material. The material sample remains trapped in the sample capture pocket upon sample capture element retraction. The sample capture pocket may be provided with a port for receiving material therein and a port for expelling material therefrom. These ports may be placed in communication with corresponding material transfer channels extending through the sample capture element. A device of the present invention provides for substantially contemporaneous sample capture and sample processing.