Sample Dilution Unit Using Analyte Separator
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Solution Overview
Problem
In laboratory and process analysis, the routine dilution of sample liquids for quantitative analysis often requires a significant supply of dilution liquid, which can be costly and space-intensive, especially in automated systems where a dedicated supply line or storage container is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize a separator to extract a dilution liquid from the sample liquid itself, eliminating the need for an additional supply line or storage container, by separating the analyte from a portion of the sample liquid and mixing it with another portion to create the necessary dilution, which can be done through physical or chemical methods such as distillation or ion exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a storage container with dilution liquid is used, then the measuring device can perform routine dilution automatically, but additional space is required and the container must be regularly replaced or replenished
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the sample liquid itself as the dilution medium by separating the analyte through a separator unit. The treated sample liquid (now free of analyte) is recirculated back to mix with incoming sample, eliminating the need for external dilution liquid storage containers while maintaining automatic operation
Solution Approach 2:
The sample liquid serves dual functions: it is both the material to be analyzed and the dilution medium. The separator unit enables the same liquid to be reused for dilution after analyte removal, making the system space-efficient while maintaining automated capability
2Extent of automation
If a supply line for dilution liquid is installed, then the measuring device can obtain dilution liquid continuously, but installation and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system generates its own dilution liquid internally by treating sample liquid through the separator unit. This eliminates the need for external supply lines, reducing both installation complexity and maintenance requirements while ensuring continuous automatic operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines the sample liquid intake stream with the treated sample recirculation stream in a mixing unit. This merging approach creates a self-sufficient system that doesn't require separate dilution liquid supply infrastructure
3Ease of operation
If dilution liquid is supplied via supply line or storage container, then the measuring device can perform dilution, but the system becomes more complex and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses its own processed output (analyte-free sample liquid) as the input for dilution, creating a closed-loop system. This eliminates the need for external dilution liquid supplies and reduces overall system component count while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The sample liquid serves multiple roles: it is the analyte source, the dilution medium, and the recirculated fluid. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed compared to traditional systems requiring dedicated dilution liquid storage and supply
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 allows for cost-effective, space-efficient, and low-maintenance dilution of sample liquids, enabling automated analysis without the need for additional dilution liquid supplies, suitable for various applications including environmental metrology and industrial processes.
Implementation Method 1
separating at least the analyte from the second quantity of the sample liquid supplied to the separator by means of the separator to obtain a dilution liquid which no longer contains the analyte
Implementation Method 2
mixing at least one portion of the first quantity of the sample liquid supplied to the mixing device via the first sample liquid line with at least one portion of the dilution liquid by means of the mixing device
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method for diluting a sample liquid taken from a sampling point for the subsequent determination of a parameter which depends on a concentration of at least one analyte in the sample liquid, including: supplying a first quantity of the sample liquid to a mixing device via a first sample liquid line; supplying a second quantity of the sample liquid to a separator via a second sample liquid line; separating the analyte from the second quantity of the sample liquid supplied to the separator by means of the separator to obtain a dilution liquid that no longer contains the analyte, and mixing at least one portion of the first quantity of the sample liquid supplied to the mixing device via the first sample liquid line with at least one portion of the dilution liquid by means of the mixing device.