Powered Sampling Device Standardizing Surface Pressure and Timing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current surface sampling methods are inconsistent and dependent on the skill of the sampler, leading to variations in results due to factors like pressure, overlap, and sampling protocol adherence, especially when multiple people are involved.

Innovation Solution

A portable powered sampling device that standardizes surface sampling by providing user feedback and guidance through a systematic sampling protocol, incorporating features like controlled pressure, timed sampling intervals, and a sampling head with a sampling media suitable for specific applications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual sampling is performed by multiple operators, then sampling can be conducted across different locations and times, but consistency and reliability of sampling results deteriorate due to variations in operator skill and technique

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesampling capacityVSAvoidsampling consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The sampling device performs self-regulation of sampling parameters through automated mechanisms. The motorized actuator automatically controls the sampling head movement, speed, and pressure without requiring operator intervention, thereby eliminating variability introduced by different operators while maintaining high sampling capacity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates sensors that provide real-time feedback on sampling parameters such as pressure, speed, and position. This feedback loop ensures that each sampling operation adheres to standardized protocols, maintaining consistency across multiple operators and locations while enabling high-throughput sampling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Device complexity

If manual sampling techniques are used, then sampling can be performed with simple equipment, but measurement precision and repeatability worsen due to dependence on operator skill

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveequipment simplicityVSAvoidsampling accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical sampling operations with an automated motorized system. The motorized actuator precisely controls the sampling head's movement, pressure, and speed, eliminating the imprecision of manual techniques while maintaining equipment portability and ease of deployment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates sensors and controllers that automatically adjust sampling parameters such as pressure, speed, and contact time to optimal values. This automated parameter control ensures high measurement precision and repeatability without requiring complex manual calibration or operator expertise

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If automated sampling is implemented, then sampling consistency improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesampling consistencyVSAvoiddevice structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sampling device is designed as a multi-functional integrated system where a single motorized actuator performs multiple functions: moving the sampling head, applying pressure, controlling sampling speed, and maintaining position. This consolidation reduces overall device complexity while achieving high sampling consistency through automated control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the sampling head, actuator, sensors, and control electronics into a single integrated unit. This merging of components simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining the automated control functions necessary for consistent sampling across multiple operators and locations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3959499B1Powered sampling device and method

Publication Date: 2025.02.19 FREMONTA CORP

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AI summary

Powered sampling systems, devices and methods of surface sampling are provided herein. A portable handheld sampling device can include an actuator operably coupled with a sampling head supporting a sample medium. One or more sensor indicate when a suitable force or pressure is applied by the sampling device as well as the duration of sampling. The actuator can provide movement of the sampling medium, such as rotational movement. The sampling device can provide guidance to a user to facilitate standardized sampling according to a sampling protocol. The sampling device and system can include communication means to facilitate automatic sample logging and period updates of sample protocols. System for creating and managing sampling plans and test results are also provided herein.