Orthogonal Liquid Sample Collection Device for Optical Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid sample analysis devices face challenges in accurately and efficiently detecting and analyzing liquid samples due to issues with sample collection, positioning, and interference during the analysis process, particularly with optical sensors.
Innovation Solution
A liquid-sample analysis system comprising a collection device with a receiving surface orthogonal to the insertion axis, a measurement chamber, and a locking-and-disengagement mechanism that ensures precise positioning and minimizes external interference, combined with an optical sensor setup for accurate detection and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the collection device is inserted into the housing along the insertion axis, then the sample collection and positioning is improved, but the alignment precision for optical detection may be compromised due to manual insertion errors
Solution Approach 1:
The collection device is pre-configured with the receiving surface orthogonal to the insertion axis before insertion, ensuring that when inserted along the insertion axis, the sample is automatically positioned at the correct location and orientation for optical detection, eliminating manual alignment errors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual positioning and alignment operations with a mechanical insertion system where the collection device is guided along the insertion axis into the housing, with the orthogonal receiving surface ensuring automatic correct positioning, substituting operator skill with a deterministic mechanical process
2Measurement precision
If the receiving surface is positioned orthogonal to the insertion axis, then the optical detection alignment is improved, but the device complexity increases due to precise positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving surface is positioned asymmetrically relative to the insertion axis, specifically orthogonal to it, which creates a unique geometric relationship that simplifies the positioning mechanism - the collection device only needs to be inserted along the insertion axis without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms, as the orthogonal geometry automatically ensures correct alignment
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of making the receiving surface adjustable to achieve alignment, the patent inverts the approach by making the receiving surface fixed at an orthogonal angle and ensuring the insertion process itself provides the alignment, reversing the traditional design paradigm and simplifying the overall system
3Measurement precision
If the fluid passage length is reduced, then the analysis accuracy is improved, but the collection device design becomes more constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces fluid passage length by changing the spatial arrangement from a linear extension to a more compact three-dimensional configuration, where the passage connects the sample receiving area to the analysis chamber through optimized routing in multiple dimensions, achieving shorter length without constraining the collection device design
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
The system enhances the accuracy and reliability of liquid sample analysis by reducing fluid passage length, minimizing manual manipulation errors, and ensuring optimal alignment for optical detection, leading to more precise and reliable results.
Implementation Method 1
An example of a sensor is an optical sensor
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a system for analyzing a liquid sample, including an analysis device comprising a casing including a through-opening leading into a housing adapted to receive a portion of a collecting device and extending longitudinally from the opening along an axis of insertion of the collecting device. The analysis system further includes a collecting device comprising a main body extending along a longitudinal axis and including a fluid chamber adapted to be inserted in the housing along the insertion axis and a receiving surface intended to receive the liquid sample extending substantially orthogonally relative to the axis of the main body.