Rapid Dispersive SPE Cup for Extraction Time Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample preparation techniques for molecular analysis are slow, require multiple steps, use excess solvent, are difficult to automate, and operate under high liquid pressure, limiting the number of samples that can be prepared in a given time.
Innovation Solution
A dispersive extraction method involving placing an extraction solvent, sorbent particles, and a sample matrix in a sample cup, heating, and pressurizing to drive the analyte into the solvent, followed by cooling and collection, which reduces the extraction time and simplifies the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional extraction methods (Soxhlet, SPE) are used, then extraction completeness is achieved, but extraction time is excessively long and process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by heating the extraction solvent to elevated temperatures (e.g., 40-100°C or higher) and maintaining pressurized conditions, which fundamentally alters the extraction kinetics and thermodynamics. This enables complete extraction in minutes rather than hours, resolving the contradiction between extraction completeness and extraction time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through automated cycles of heating, extracting, cooling, and dispensing. The system automatically repeats these cycles for multiple samples without manual intervention, achieving both complete extraction and reduced overall processing time through efficient cycle management
2Measurement precision
If traditional extraction methods are used, then analyte recovery is ensured, but solvent consumption is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses partial action by employing smaller volumes of extraction solvent compared to traditional methods, while achieving complete analyte recovery through the enhanced extraction efficiency provided by heating and pressurization. The system uses just enough solvent to fully extract the analyte without excess
Solution Approach 2:
By changing temperature and pressure parameters, the patent achieves complete analyte recovery with reduced solvent volumes. The elevated temperature increases solvent penetration and analyte solubility, while pressure maintains solvent in liquid phase and enhances mass transfer, allowing effective extraction with minimal solvent
3Measurement precision
If manual extraction procedures are used, then extraction quality is maintained, but automation difficulty increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system embodies self-service through automated heating, mixing, cooling, and dispensing functions that operate without manual intervention. The controller automatically manages the extraction cycle, including temperature control and timing, maintaining extraction quality while enabling high-throughput processing of multiple samples
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction device performs multiple functions within a single integrated system: heating the solvent, agitating the mixture, cooling the extract, and dispensing the prepared sample. This multi-functionality maintains extraction quality while dramatically improving productivity by eliminating the need for separate manual operations
4Measurement precision
If conventional SPE columns are used, then separation efficiency is achieved, but device complexity and operation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential separation function from complex column systems by using simple dispersive sorbent particles mixed directly with the sample and solvent. This eliminates the need for column packing, flow control mechanisms, and complex hardware, achieving effective separation through a simplified mixing and settling process
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 method significantly reduces sample preparation time, allows for automation, and minimizes solvent use, enabling faster and more efficient molecular analysis.
Implementation Method 1
heating, and pressurizing to drive the analyte into the solvent
Implementation Method 2
heating, and pressurizing to drive the analyte into the solvent
Implementation Method 3
releasing the solvent extract from the sample cup into a cooling tube at atmospheric pressure
Data Source
AI summary
An energized dispersive extraction method for sample preparation for analysis is disclosed. The method includes the steps of placing an extraction solvent, sorbent particles, and a sample matrix containing an analyte in a heat conductive sample cup; positioning the sample cup in a pressure-resistant reaction chamber; dispersing the solvent and the sample matrix in the sample cup in the reaction chamber; heating the sample matrix and the solvent in the sample cup in the reaction chamber to a temperature that generates an above-atmospheric pressure; draining the solvent extract from the sample cup at atmospheric pressure; and collecting the solvent extract for analysis.