Multi-Fiber Extraction Chamber for VOC Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for collecting and analyzing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from biological samples, such as solid phase microextraction (SPME), are limited in their ability to comprehensively isolate and identify metabolites due to single-fiber extraction techniques, which may not capture the full range of analytes present in a sample.

Innovation Solution

The development of an extraction chamber system that allows for simultaneous multi-fiber extraction, enabling multiple extraction assemblies to collect analytes from a sample simultaneously, thereby enhancing the comprehensive analysis of VOCs and other metabolites.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If single-fiber extraction technique is used, then the extraction process is simple, but the number of identifiable analytes is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of identifiable analytesVSAvoidextraction system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the extraction system into multiple independent extraction assemblies, each with its own fiber, that can simultaneously extract different analytes from the sample. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage of diverse metabolites while maintaining individual fiber simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple extraction assemblies are merged into a single extraction chamber that interfaces with one gas chromatograph system. This combining approach enables simultaneous extraction of multiple analyte types while sharing common infrastructure, reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If single-fiber extraction is used, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveextraction throughputVSAvoidextraction chamber structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The extraction chamber is designed with dynamic capabilities to accommodate multiple extraction assemblies that can be independently positioned and controlled. This dynamic structure allows simultaneous operation of multiple fibers, dramatically increasing extraction throughput while maintaining operational flexibility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The extraction chamber serves multiple functions: it holds the sample, accommodates multiple extraction assemblies simultaneously, and interfaces with the gas chromatograph system. This multi-functionality increases productivity without requiring separate dedicated systems for each extraction task

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (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

This approach significantly increases the number of identifiable analytes and improves metabolomic investigations by allowing for the simultaneous collection and analysis of a broader range of VOCs, optimizing extraction duration and fiber choice for better metabolite isolation and identification.

Implementation Method 1

the extraction of the VOCs via partitioning into a polymeric coating adhered to a fused silica rod

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPartitioning: Absorption (physical)

Implementation Method 2

simultaneous multi-fiber extraction, enabling multiple extraction assemblies to collect analytes from a sample simultaneously

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAbsorption: Absorption (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS9476813B2Extraction chamber for collecting analytes from samples and method thereof

Publication Date: 2016.10.25 GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY

AI summary

Apparatus and methods are disclosed for the collection and analysis of analytes from samples. In one embodiment an extraction chamber is provided that includes a sample holder and an extraction lid that allows for simultaneous multifiber solid phase microextraction of analytes from a sample held in the sample holder. Methods of collection and analysis include using simultaneous multifiber solid phase microextraction of analytes from a sample.