Liquid Sampling Device with Segmented Parallel Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current water sampling devices are not suitable for determining the presence of microplastics, as they do not allow for comparable measurements without sample contamination, and they are not designed for simultaneous sampling of multiple samples.
Innovation Solution
A device with an inlet pipe having multiple legs for connection to a pump and distribution unit, featuring multiple sampling units with filter holders and flow measuring devices to prevent contamination and allow parallel sampling of multiple subsamples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional water sampling devices are used, then sampling can be performed, but sample contamination occurs and measurements are not comparable
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the sampling system into separate, isolated sampling units (first sampling unit, second sampling unit, etc.), each with its own filter holder and flow measuring device. This segmentation prevents cross-contamination between samples and allows independent measurement of each sample, thereby improving measurement comparability while eliminating sample contamination issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces sterile filters as intermediary components between the liquid sample and the collection containers. These filters prevent direct contact between the sample and potentially contaminating surfaces, acting as a barrier that maintains sample integrity and prevents contamination while still allowing the sampling process to proceed.
2Productivity
If traditional sampling devices are used, then sampling can be performed, but multiple samples cannot be sampled simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs multiple independent sampling units connected to a common inlet, allowing simultaneous collection of multiple samples in parallel. Each sampling unit operates independently with its own flow measuring device and filter holder, enabling high-productivity multi-sample collection without requiring complex sequential operations or multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple sampling units into a single integrated device with a common inlet pipe and distribution system. This combining approach allows simultaneous sampling of multiple samples through one device, improving productivity while keeping the overall structure manageable and relatively simple compared to using multiple separate devices.
3Productivity
If multiple sampling units are added to enable parallel sampling, then sampling efficiency increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each sampling unit in the device is designed as a universal module that can be configured for different sampling needs. The sampling units share common components such as the inlet pipe, distribution system, and basic filter holder structure, allowing the device to achieve parallel sampling capability while avoiding proportional increases in overall complexity through component standardization and multi-functionality.
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 consistent and contamination-free sampling of multiple parallel samples, reducing the risk of sample contamination and allowing for more representative sampling, particularly effective for sampling microplastics.
Implementation Method 1
an inlet pipe with at least two, preferably three, legs, wherein in one leg the inlet pipe is arranged for connection to a pump or a pumping site
Implementation Method 2
at least one holder for receiving at least one filter, preferably with a filter arranged to filter the required material, particle and/or organism in the sampled liquid
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention belongs to the field of devices for sampling liquids. The invention relates to a device for sampling liquids, a method for sampling liquids using said device and uses of the device and the method. The device for sampling liquids comprises: - an inlet pipe (2, 2') with at least two legs, wherein on one leg the inlet pipe (2, 2') is configured for connection to a pump or pumping site (3, 3'), and on the second leg the inlet pipe is configured for connection to a distribution unit (4, 4'), - a connection pipe (41a) between the inlet pipe (2, 2') and the distribution unit (4, 4'), wherein the connection pipe may be in the same level as the inlet pipe (2, 2') and the distribution unit (4, 4') or the connection pipe is under the distribution unit (4, 4'), - the distribution unit (4, 4') having at least two, preferably three or four, symmetrically arranged legs, wherein at least two remaining legs are (41b) are configured for connection to a corresponding sampling unit (6, 6'), and wherein a pressure measuring device (42, 42') is installed in the distribution unit (4, 4'), and - at least two sampling units (6, 6'), which are essentially pipe elements provided with a valve (61, 61'), at least one filter holder (62, 62') configured to receive at least one filter, and a flow measuring device (63, 63') installed upstream or downstream the filter holder (62, 62').