Porous Soil Sample Containers with QR Codes for LIBS Analysis
Solution Overview
Problem
Current soil sampling and analysis methods in agriculture are time-consuming, expensive, and prone to contamination and confusion, limiting the effectiveness of agro-environmental fertilization plans due to inefficient sampling and laboratory analysis processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilizes porous soil sample containers with QR codes for tagging and tracking, combined with Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) for on-site analysis, allowing for efficient sampling, compacting, and data management, reducing the need for multiple container transfers and automating the analysis process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional laboratory analysis methods are used, then comprehensive soil analysis can be performed, but the process becomes time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the analysis capability from the laboratory environment and brings it to the field by using portable LIBS equipment. The core function of soil analysis is separated from the complex laboratory infrastructure, allowing rapid on-site analysis while maintaining measurement precision through calibrated spectroscopic detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical and chemical laboratory processes (drying, grinding, sieving, chemical extraction, filtering) with a spectroscopic analysis system. LIBS technology uses laser-induced plasma emission to directly analyze soil composition without physical or chemical preparation, dramatically reducing turnaround time while maintaining analysis accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If multiple soil samples are collected from different locations, then fine-grained soil information is obtained, but the risk of contamination and confusion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses QR codes as digital copies of sample identification information, replacing handwritten labels. Each sample container has a machine-readable QR code that uniquely identifies the sample location and parameters, eliminating misreading errors and enabling rapid, accurate sample tracking throughout the analysis process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the sample container serve multiple functions: it acts as the collection vessel, the identification carrier (via QR code on the container), and the analysis platform (by positioning the container directly in the LIBS analysis path). This eliminates the need to transfer samples between containers, preventing contamination and loss of track.
3Quantity of substance
If large individual samples are collected, then sufficient material is available for multiple tests, but the cost and complexity of processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent collects smaller soil samples than traditional methods require because LIBS technology needs only a small amount of material for rapid spectroscopic analysis. The laser ablates a minimal surface layer for analysis, so small samples are sufficient, reducing collection burden and processing complexity while maintaining analytical capability.
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 reduces costs and simplifies the soil sampling and analysis process, providing more accurate and efficient data for fertilization plans while minimizing contamination risks and turnaround time.
Implementation Method 1
analyzing the sample using a method known as Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)
Implementation Method 2
measuring pH, and the concentration of several minerals... analyzing the sample using methods such as Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) or Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (FAAS)
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A system and a method are provided for sampling and analyzing soil. A soil sample container having porous sidewalls and a unique identifier is provided. A geographic position corresponding to a location where a soil sample was taken is associated with the unique identifier. The soil sample container with the soil sample contained therein is received, and the soil sample is compacted while inside the soil sample container. The soil sample is analyzed while inside the soil sample container using a Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) system and analysis results are generated. The analysis results of the soil sample are associated with the unique identifier of the soil sample container.