Inline Dual-Stage Sample Dilution for Accurate High Dilution Factors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample preparation methods for ICP spectrometry struggle with achieving accurate, large dilution factors, particularly for highly concentrated samples, due to limitations in pump resolution and manual techniques requiring large volumes and time, which can lead to instrument saturation and inaccuracy.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing multiple independent pumps and valves for inline, multi-stage dilution, allowing dynamic control of dilution factors and stages, with computer-controlled flow rates to achieve precise dilution factors up to 10,000 times, using syringe pumps and selection valves for fluid management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual dilution techniques are used, then operation flexibility is maintained, but measurement precision and manufacturing precision deteriorate due to inability to achieve accurate high dilution factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical dilution operations with an automated fluid delivery system using computer-controlled pumps and valves. The system uses electronic control to regulate carrier fluid and diluent flow rates, substituting manual pipetting and mixing with automated peristaltic or syringe pumps that can precisely control flow rates to achieve accurate high dilution factors (e.g., 100-fold or greater) without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic parameter control by allowing the computer system to adjust pump flow rates, valve timing, and dilution factors in real-time based on sample requirements. The system can change dilution parameters (flow rates, volumes, timing) programmatically to optimize precision for different sample types and target dilution factors, while maintaining ease of operation through software control.
2Manufacturing precision
If existing pump systems are used, then device complexity is minimized, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to insufficient pump resolution for high dilution factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the dilution process into multiple independent stages, each handled by separate computer-controlled pumps. Instead of relying on a single pump to achieve high dilution factors, the system segments the dilution into sequential steps (e.g., first dilution stage, second dilution stage), where each stage uses a dedicated pump with sufficient resolution. This segmentation allows each pump to operate within its optimal resolution range while achieving cumulative high dilution factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the pump system with multi-functionality, where computer-controlled pumps can perform multiple functions: delivering carrier fluid, delivering diluent, and potentially delivering standards or rinsing fluids. The same pump hardware is controlled through software to perform different dilution tasks, reducing the need for specialized equipment for each function while maintaining precision through digital control.
3Measurement precision
If single-stage dilution is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates for extreme dilution factors of 10,000 times and greater
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dual-stage (or multi-stage) dilution by segmenting the overall dilution process into distinct stages. For extreme dilution factors like 10,000-fold, the system performs sequential dilutions (e.g., first 100-fold dilution, then another 100-fold dilution, achieving cumulative 10,000-fold). Each stage uses the same computer-controlled pump and valve system, but operates in sequence with intermediate holding and mixing steps, ensuring precision at each stage contributes to the final accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous automated control throughout the multi-stage dilution process. The computer system continuously monitors and adjusts pump flow rates, valve positions, and timing between stages without interruption. This continuous automated action ensures that each dilution stage transitions smoothly into the next, maintaining precision and eliminating manual intervention errors that would disrupt the continuity of the dilution sequence.
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 accurate and efficient dilution of samples for ICP spectrometry, preventing instrument saturation and ensuring precise analysis of trace elements, even in highly concentrated samples.
Implementation Method 1
a first pump configured to drive a carrier fluid
Implementation Method 2
a second pump configured to drive a diluent
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of selection valves fluidically coupled with the first pump and the second pump, the plurality of selection valves being configured to direct fluid flows
Implementation Method 4
Sample preparation systems and methods for dilution of fluid samples are described, where the samples are diluted inline in single or multi-stage dilution processes to achieve extreme accuracy in high dilution factors
Data Source
AI summary
Sample preparation systems and methods are described having pump control, valve configurations, and control logic that facilitate automatic, inline preparation dilutions of a sample according to at least two dilution operating modes. A system embodiment includes, but is not limited to a first pump configured to drive a carrier fluid; a second pump configured to drive a diluent; and a plurality of selection valves fluidically coupled with the first pump and the second pump, the plurality of selection valves being configured to direct fluid flows from the first pump and the second pump according to at least two modes of operation to provide a single-stage sample dilution according to a first operating mode and to provide a dual-stage sample dilution according to a second operating mode.