Robot Sample Collector Actuator Arm for Hazardous Material Handling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for collecting representative samples of hazardous materials expose responders to dangerous environments and require unnecessary sample material, posing risks to human safety.
Innovation Solution
A sample collector device with an actuator arm that extends and retracts, moving linked components to collect and store solid, liquid, and multiphase samples, minimizing human exposure by using a robot to operate the device and transfer samples to a storage container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional manual sampling methods are used, then sample collection can be performed, but human exposure to hazardous materials increases and safety decreases
Solution Approach 1:
A robotic system with a specialized sampling device acts as an intermediary between the operator and the hazardous material. The robot executes predefined sampling sequences remotely, allowing operators to collect samples without direct exposure to dangerous environments while maintaining full control over the sampling process
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling device is designed to autonomously perform the complete sampling cycle including approach, sampling, retraction, and sample ejection without continuous human intervention. The system self-manages the hazardous interaction while humans remain in safe locations controlling the overall process
2Measurement precision
If large quantities of sample material are collected, then representative sampling is ensured, but the amount of hazardous material handled increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device collects slightly more sample material than the minimum required amount, ensuring adequate representative sampling while limiting the total quantity handled. The sampling mechanism is designed to capture sufficient material for analysis without excessive collection that would increase hazard exposure and handling requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling system allows adjustment of sampling parameters such as collection volume, sampling depth, and number of samples based on specific mission requirements. This enables optimization between sample representativeness and quantity handled, adapting to different hazardous material scenarios and analysis needs
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex sampling mechanisms are used, then sampling capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling device is designed as a universal platform capable of collecting multiple types of samples (solid, liquid, multiphase) using a single integrated mechanism. The system can adapt to different sampling needs through programmable sequences and interchangeable sampling heads, avoiding the need for multiple specialized devices while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling device is divided into modular components including the sampling head, actuator system, sample container, and control unit. This segmentation allows for easier maintenance, calibration, and adaptation of individual components while keeping the overall system manageable despite its multifunctional capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A robot accessory and/or device that provides a sample collector device, a sample storage device, and a work surface. Upon activation, the sample collector device performs a full cycle in which an actuator causes the movement (i.e., extension and then retraction) of an actuator arm that simultaneously causes the top link plate, the lance plunger, the plunger guide, and the plunger to likewise move, including the depression and/or compression and release of the pipette. During this full cycle, this single device is able to remotely collect solid, liquid and/or multiphase samples of potentially hazardous materials and reduces human exposure to this hazardous material and dangerous environment.