Double-Walled Sample Holder for Multi-Parameter Fluid Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices require significant sample volumes and complex handling procedures for measuring multiple parameters of liquids, such as cooling lubricants, which limits their efficiency and convenience in on-site analysis.
Innovation Solution
A double-walled sample-holding element with planar-parallel plates and a capillary-filled sample space, combined with an optoelectronic analysis device and data processing unit, allows for simultaneous measurement of multiple chemico-physical parameters using a hand-held device with minimal sample volume and simplified handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional measuring devices are used for multiple parameters, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and sample volume requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measuring points (refractometer, conductivity meter, pH meter) into a single integrated sample holder that can analyze multiple parameters simultaneously. The sample holder includes multiple chambers with different measuring elements, allowing one device to perform functions that previously required separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample holder is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate various types of measurements (optical, electrical, chemical) through its multiple measuring points. A single sample holder can be used for refractive index, conductivity, and pH measurements, making it multi-functional.
2Measurement precision
If traditional analysis devices are used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex handling procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder is pre-filled with reagents and prepared with multiple measuring elements in place before use. The device comes ready-to-use with all components positioned, eliminating the need for complex assembly or preparation steps by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to be self-contained with integrated sample handling, measurement, and analysis capabilities. The sample holder automatically manages sample distribution to different chambers and coordinates measurements across multiple parameters without requiring complex user intervention.
3Productivity
If multiple parameters are measured simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but sample volume requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder uses a nested chamber design where multiple smaller measurement chambers are arranged within a compact structure. Each chamber contains a specific measuring element and requires only a small amount of sample, but together they enable simultaneous multi-parameter analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from linear or sequential measurement arrangements to a three-dimensional multi-chamber configuration. Multiple measuring points are arranged in different spatial dimensions within the sample holder, allowing parallel measurements with minimal sample volume.
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 reproducible and reliable on-site analysis of multiple parameters with reduced sample volume and simplified handling, facilitating efficient analysis of cooling lubricants and other fluids.
Implementation Method 1
a distance between the plates is just so large that the liquid sample between the double walls can be subjected to the capillary effect
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a sample-holding element (20) for a liquid sample for the simultaneous analysis of three or more chemico-physical parameters of the liquid by means of an analysis device. The sample-holding element (20) has a sample-holding chamber (31), which can be filled with the liquid, wherein the sample-holding element (20) has at least three measurement points (24, 25, 26, 26N, 27) arranged adjacent to each other, which are distributed over the sample-holding chamber (31), wherein two of the measurement points (24, 25) are a photonic measurement point (24) and a refractive-index measurement point (25) and wherein the at least one further measurement point is selected from the group comprising at least a pH measurement point (26), a conductivity measurement point (27) and a germ measurement point. The sample-holding element (20) is a planar element (20) that is double-walled at least in some sections and that has plates (30, 30′), which are arranged on each other in a plane-parallel manner and are connected to each other at the edges thereof at least in some sections, wherein the sample-holding chamber (31) is formed as a planar gap between the plates (30, 30′) and the distance between the plates (30, 30′) is just so large that the liquid sample can be subjected to the capillary effect between the double walls (30, 30′). The measurement point (25) for measuring the refractive index has a refraction structure (25′, 25″) on one of the plates (30, 30′) in a region predefined therefor. The invention further relates to an analysis device set having the sample-holding element (20) and having an analysis apparatus (1) and to a method for the simultaneous analysis of three or more chemico-physical parameters of the liquid.