Sampling Device With Self-Aligning Disposable Head
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trace detection methods face challenges such as contamination, incomplete sample collection, and incorrect sample alignment due to operator error, especially in methods involving vacuum suction and manual handling of sampling substrates.
Innovation Solution
A sampling device that collects and transfers samples without direct operator handling, featuring a detachable sampling head with a replaceable substrate and a mechanism for proper alignment within an analytical device, minimizing contamination and ensuring complete sample desorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If vacuum suction is used to transfer samples from collection medium to analytical device, then sample collection capability is improved, but contamination and sample loss increase due to incomplete transfer and device contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the vacuum suction mechanism from the sampling system. Instead of using vacuum to transfer samples, the design allows direct insertion of the collection medium into the analytical device, removing the source of contamination and sample loss associated with vacuum transfer processes
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a specialized collection medium that serves as an intermediary between the sampling surface and the analytical device. This medium is designed to be directly compatible with the analytical device, eliminating the need for vacuum transfer and preventing contamination while ensuring complete sample transfer
2Ease of operation
If manual handling of sampling substrates is used, then ease of operation is improved, but operator error and alignment issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
The collection medium is designed with self-aligning features that automatically position the sample correctly within the analytical device without requiring manual adjustment by the operator. The system serves itself by incorporating alignment mechanisms into the collection medium structure
Solution Approach 2:
The collection medium is pre-configured with alignment features and sample positioning structures before use. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the medium is inserted into the analytical device, the sample is already in the correct position, eliminating alignment errors
3Device complexity
If collection medium fibers and lint are released during sampling, then sampling process is simplified, but analytical device obstruction and interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The collection medium is designed as a disposable component that is discarded after a single use. This eliminates the need for cleaning and prevents fiber and lint accumulation in the analytical device, as each new medium is free from contamination
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses porous materials with controlled pore sizes that allow sample collection while preventing fiber and lint release. The porous structure is engineered to retain collection medium fibers within the material matrix, preventing them from being released into the analytical device
Data Source
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AI summary
A sampling apparatus and method of obtaining a sample are provided. The apparatus has a body, a head connected to the body, and a mechanism for retaining a substrate on the head. The apparatus enables a.n area to be sampled quickly and efficiently, while minimizing cross- contamination of a sample and incorrect placement of a sample in an analyzer.