Open-Port Sampling Probe With Liquid Dome Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing sample analysis systems, such as mass spectrometry and high performance liquid chromatography, face challenges in properly processing sample materials into solution form, requiring additional steps and prolonging analysis time, especially when dealing with diverse sample forms like particulates, droplets, or solid samples, which complicates the sampling process and equipment maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A sampling system comprising a probe with a liquid supply conduit and an exhaust conduit, where the first volumetric flow rate exceeds the second, allowing sample material to be drawn into and through the exhaust conduit, with an overflow collection system for directing and analyzing the overflow liquid, facilitating chemical analysis through high performance liquid chromatography or mass spectrometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sample materials are processed into solution form using conventional methods, then chemical analysis can be performed, but additional preparation steps are required and analysis time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sample collection, solution preparation, and analysis functions into a single integrated probe system. The probe housing contains both the sample collection chamber and the solution reservoir, with the sample directly converting to solution form within the probe itself, eliminating separate preparation steps and reducing analysis time.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe is designed as a multi-functional device that can collect samples in various forms (particulates, droplets, solids) and automatically convert them to solution form for analysis. The same probe structure handles both sample collection and solution preparation, making the system versatile for different sample types without requiring additional equipment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple or repeated samples are tested, then comprehensive analysis is achieved, but equipment must be washed or replaced repeatedly
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is designed as a disposable component that can be discarded after use, eliminating the need for washing or replacement of complex equipment. Each probe is inexpensive and single-use, allowing rapid sequential testing of multiple samples without contamination risk or maintenance requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sample materials are received in diverse forms, then comprehensive sampling is achieved, but additional processing steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is designed as a multi-functional device that can collect samples in various forms (particulates, droplets, solids) and automatically convert them to solution form for analysis. The same probe structure handles both sample collection and solution preparation, making the system versatile for different sample types without requiring additional equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe utilizes changes in physical parameters (phase transitions, dissolution) to automatically convert samples from diverse forms into solution form. The liquid sample material facilitates this transformation by dissolving solids, solvating particulates, or merging with droplets, requiring no additional processing steps.
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 system simplifies the sample preparation process by efficiently drawing and processing sample materials into solution, reducing analysis time and equipment maintenance, while enabling effective chemical analysis of samples in diverse forms.
Implementation Method 1
A liquid supply conduit within the housing has an outlet positioned to deliver liquid to the open end of the housing. The liquid supply conduit can be connectable to a liquid supply for delivering liquid at a first volumetric flow rate to the open end of the housing.
Implementation Method 2
A liquid exhaust conduit within the housing is provided for removing liquid from the open end of the housing. A liquid exhaust system in fluid connection with the liquid exhaust conduit can be provided for removing liquid from the liquid exhaust conduit at a second volumetric flow rate.
Implementation Method 3
the first volumetric flow rate exceeding the second volumetric flow rate, wherein liquid at the open end will receive sample, liquid containing sample material will be drawn into and through the liquid exhaust conduit
Data Source
AI summary
A system for sampling a sample material includes a probe which can have an outer probe housing with an open end. A liquid supply conduit within the housing has an outlet positioned to deliver liquid to the open end of the housing. The liquid supply conduit can be connectable to a liquid supply for delivering liquid at a first volumetric flow rate to the open end of the housing. A liquid exhaust conduit within the housing is provided for removing liquid from the open end of the housing. A liquid exhaust system can be provided for removing liquid from the liquid exhaust conduit at a second volumetric flow rate. A droplet dispenser can dispense drops of a sample or a sample-containing solvent into the open end of the housing. A sensor and a processor can be provided to monitor and maintain a liquid dome present at the open end.