Automatic SPME Sampling Apparatus with Magnetic Probe Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
The automation of solid phase microextraction (SPME) sampling procedures is limited by the need for manual operator intervention to change SPME probes on autosampler arms, especially in environmental analyses where multiple fibers are required for simultaneous sampling, leading to inefficiencies and extended analysis times.
Innovation Solution
An automatic SPME sampling apparatus that enables the magnetic attachment and detachment of SPME probes on an autosampler arm, using a transfer bracket and magnetic connections to automate the probe replacement process, allowing for simultaneous use of multiple fibers without operator intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual operator intervention is used to change SPME probes on autosampler arms, then probe replacement can be performed, but automation is limited and analysis time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the probe storage and replacement function into separate modular components: a probe holder with multiple probe positions, a robotic arm for transfer, and magnetic attachment/detachment mechanisms. This segmentation enables automated operation while reducing analysis time by allowing multiple probes to be prepared simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe holder is equipped with magnetic elements that automatically attract and secure probes during transfer operations. The system performs self-service through automated robotic arm movement and magnetic coupling, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention in probe replacement while maintaining secure attachment.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple SPME fibers are required for simultaneous sampling in environmental analyses, then more probes must be changed manually, but this increases operator action and extends analysis time
Solution Approach 1:
The probe holder is divided into multiple independent probe positions (at least two positions), each capable of holding a separate SPME probe. This segmentation allows multiple probes to be prepared and stored simultaneously, enabling parallel sampling operations without increasing operator action.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe holder serves multiple functions: it stores multiple probes simultaneously, automatically transfers them to the autosampler arm, and secures them using magnetic attachment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for manual operator action during probe replacement while supporting simultaneous use of multiple fibers.
3Productivity
If SPME probes are changed manually on autosampler arms, then probe replacement is possible, but the process requires operator intervention and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves self-service through automated robotic arm operation and magnetic attachment mechanisms that secure probes without operator intervention. The probe holder automatically presents probes to the autosampler arm, and magnetic forces ensure secure attachment, eliminating manual intervention and improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical operation of probe replacement is replaced with an automated robotic arm system controlled by a computer. The robotic arm performs precise movements to transfer probes from the holder to the autosampler arm, substituting manual mechanical operations with automated control to improve efficiency and reduce human intervention.
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 solution enables full automation of the SPME analytical procedure, reducing operator action, minimizing errors, and significantly reducing analysis time, allowing for continuous operation without manual intervention, while also enabling the use of exposed fibers for air analysis and direct sampling from test tubes.
Implementation Method 1
The probe (5) is collected from a tray (4) by a robotic arm (2) and attached to a transfer bracket (6) through magnetic connection
Implementation Method 2
The probe (5) is collected from a tray (4) by a robotic arm (2) and attached to a transfer bracket (6) through magnetic connection, and detached therefrom
Implementation Method 3
solid phase microextraction (SPME) is an analytical method that uses a fused silicon fiber on which a fluid polymer phase or a solid adsorbent, or a combination of the two, has been immobilized. The coated fiber (hereinafter called the SPME fiber) is immersed in a liquid sample, or in the headspace above the sample, to absorb the analytes of interest
Implementation Method 4
The coated fiber (hereinafter called the SPME fiber) is immersed in a liquid sample, or in the headspace above the sample, to absorb the analytes of interest, which are subsequently desorbed with the aid of heat in the gas chromatograph injector
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
Automatic solid phase microextraction (SPME) sampling apparatus with a mobile sampler arm (2) with a holder (15) for a probe (5) carrying the SPME fiber 9 and an intermediate bracket (6) for transferring the probe (5) between a probe storage tray (4) and the gas chromatograph injector (7). In the various probe handling stages, the probes are collected by magnetic means (20, 22, 33) attached to the end of the plunger (17) in the holder (15), at the free end of the holder's body (16) and at the lower end of the block (29b) for guiding the probe needle (8). Said magnetic means interact with a ferromagnetic connector (12) attached to one end of the SPME fiber (9) and with a ferromagnetic flange (13) attached to the end of the needle (8) containing the fiber in order to place the probe on the transfer bracket (6) or remove it therefrom. The apparatus can perform analyses on SPME fibers that have already been exposed, extract analytes from samples, and subsequently transfer them for desorption in the gas chromatograph in a fully automatic way.