Sample Divider Using Synchronized Bidirectional Pumps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods struggle to automatically divide samples with time-varying compositions into representative sub-samples without altering the sample's environment, particularly in small reaction volumes and inhomogeneous media.
Innovation Solution
A sample divider system with a line system and synchronized pumps, allowing for the division of inhomogeneous samples into representative sub-samples by controlling flow rates and line cross-sections, ensuring the sub-samples have the same composition as the original sample.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual division methods are used for samples, then the sample can be divided into sub-samples, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical division operations with an automated system comprising a pump, flow cell, and detector. The pump automatically transports the sample through the flow cell where division occurs, eliminating manual intervention and significantly increasing division speed while reducing time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automation where the sample automatically flows through the division apparatus driven by the pump, with the flow cell and detector working autonomously to divide and monitor the sample without requiring continuous manual operation.
2Productivity
If automated division systems are used, then division speed increases, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a pump for sample transport, a flow cell for division, and a detector for monitoring. This modular segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall system design and maintenance while maintaining high automation capabilities.
3Reliability
If samples are taken from the original environment, then the sample represents the medium accurately, but the sample may change properties after removal
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous flow of the sample from the original environment through the flow cell and detector without interruption. This continuous action ensures the sample properties remain stable and representative of the medium, as the sample is divided and analyzed in its natural state without removal-induced changes.
4Quantity of substance
If small reaction volumes are analyzed, then the sample size is reduced, but the division becomes more difficult and less representative
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs hydraulic principles through the use of a pump and flow cell system to precisely control and divide small sample volumes. The fluid dynamics in the flow cell enable accurate division of minimal samples while maintaining representativeness, as the controlled flow ensures uniform distribution and precise measurement of small quantities.
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
Enables the precise and automatic division of samples with time-varying compositions into representative sub-samples, maintaining the sample's chemical and physical properties, suitable for analysis, even in small reaction volumes and inhomogeneous media.
Implementation Method 1
a pump having a first flow rate and at least a second pump having a second flow rate, the first and second pumps conveying the sample in the piping system
Data Source
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AI summary
The divider has a sample chamber (4) with an inlet through which inhomogeneous sample is received. Two pumps (1, 2) comprise respective flow rates, where one of the pumps is designed for bidirectional operation, and another pump is designed as unidirectional pump. The pumps convey the sample to a conduit system (3). The conduit system has a conduit (3a) and an outlet (6), and connected to the chamber. The pumps run in a synchronous manner such that the sample is simultaneously divided into two partial samples during traversing of the conduit system. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a sample removal-system (2) a method for dividing a sample into partial samples.