Sealed Reactor Sample Prep Device with Rapid Thermal Cycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample preparation methods for analyzing organic molecules in soils are cumbersome, expensive, and often degrade the molecules, making them unsuitable for in situ analysis, especially in extraterrestrial environments and for low-sample quantities.
Innovation Solution
A sample preparation device with a sealed reactor that allows for rapid heating and cooling, ultrasound application, and pressure control, enabling the extraction, functionalization, and volatilization of organic molecules without degradation, and their transfer to analytical instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional extraction methods (soxhlet apparatus, supercritical phase extraction) are used to extract organic molecules from soil samples, then extraction effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and cost increase, and the devices become bulky and unsuitable for in situ analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the traditional complex extraction system into a simplified integrated device combining a reaction chamber, heating element, cooling system, and ultrasound generator in one compact unit, eliminating the need for bulky separate equipment while maintaining extraction effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the extraction parameters by using rapid thermal cycles (heating to high temperature then rapid cooling) combined with ultrasound application, transforming the traditional slow extraction process into a fast, efficient method that works in compact devices
2Reliability
If traditional extraction methods are used with long extraction times at high temperatures, then extraction completeness is improved, but molecule degradation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic thermal action by rapidly heating the sample to high temperature for extraction, then quickly cooling it down, creating cycles that maintain extraction effectiveness while minimizing degradation time. Ultrasound is also applied periodically to enhance extraction during brief high-temperature intervals
Solution Approach 2:
The patent rushes through the extraction process by using rapid heating and cooling cycles with ultrasound assistance, completing extraction in minutes rather than hours, thereby achieving completeness without allowing sufficient time for thermal degradation to occur
3Temperature
If pyrolysis is used to transform organic molecules for detection, then volatility of molecules is improved, but molecular integrity and detectability of original molecules are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary extraction of organic molecules from the soil matrix before any thermal transformation, isolating the molecules in their original form. This preliminary action preserves molecular integrity while subsequent mild heating only serves to volatilize already-extracted molecules for detection, not to break down complex matrices
4Reliability
If conventional extraction devices are used, then extraction capability is improved, but adaptability to different environments (especially extraterrestrial) is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal compact device that integrates multiple functions (extraction, concentration, and preparation for analysis) into one unit that can operate in diverse environments including Earth and extraterrestrial settings. The device uses only basic components (heating, cooling, ultrasound) that function independently of environmental conditions
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 efficient, quantitative, and qualitative analysis of organic molecules in situ, preserving their chemical and physical properties, and is suitable for both terrestrial and extraterrestrial samples, including those with low sample masses.
Implementation Method 1
means for heating said reactor at an average speed of 10 to 50°C/second
Implementation Method 2
means for cooling said reactor at an average speed of 10 to 50°C/second
Implementation Method 3
a probe applying ultrasound inside the reactor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for preparing a sample (1) that can be used for extracting, functionalising, evaporating and optionally transferring organic molecules contained in a sample in order to analyse the same. The device for preparing a sample (1) is characterised in that it comprises: a sealed reactor including a means for feeding a sample containing the organic molecules; at least one sealed inlet (13) and one sealed outlet (14) connected to said reactor and used for circulating a flushing fluid through said reactor; a means (10) for heating said reactor at an average speed of 10 to 50°C/second; a means (35) for cooling down said reactor at an average speed of 10 to 50°C/second; a means for controlling and monitoring the temperature in the reactor; and a means for controlling the pressure in the reactor. The invention also relates to an analysis system including at least one device for preparing a sample (1) and at least one analysis instrument.