Multi-substrate Subtidal Sampler Trigger Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current protocols for monitoring planktonic algae in water bodies are well-developed, but there is a lack of standardized methods for quantitatively and consistently collecting microalgae biomass in subtidal areas due to visibility limitations, equipment constraints, and depth variations, leading to incomplete and inaccurate assessments of subtidal habitats.
Innovation Solution
A Multi-Substrate Subtidal Sampler device with a collection tube, pivotable cap, and footplate, equipped with a releasable fastener and trigger line system, allows for remote activation to establish a watertight compartment, enabling consistent and quantitative collection of sediment, microalgae biomass, and other substrates from subtidal zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If standardized protocols are used for monitoring planktonic algae in water bodies, then assessment accuracy is improved, but subtidal areas remain unmeasured due to equipment constraints and visibility limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling system is segmented into multiple components: a collection tube for substrate sampling, a separate containment bag for water column sampling, and a modular deployment frame. This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously address both benthic macroalgae sampling in subtidal areas and planktonic algae sampling, thereby improving overall assessment accuracy while expanding coverage to previously inaccessible zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling device is designed with multi-functionality to collect both benthic and planktonic algae samples using the same deployment mechanism. The collection tube can gather substrate samples while the attached containment bag collects water column samples, enabling a single device to perform multiple sampling functions and thereby improve comprehensive assessment accuracy across different water body zones.
2Ease of operation
If qualitative sampling methods are used in intertidal zones, then collection simplicity is improved, but biomass estimation becomes inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces qualitative visual estimation methods with a quantitative mechanical sampling approach. The collection tube with defined dimensions and the containment bag with known volume provide standardized, measurable sample quantities, enabling accurate biomass estimation while maintaining operational simplicity through the straightforward deployment mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling device transitions from qualitative assessment to quantitative measurement by incorporating parameters such as collection tube volume, containment bag capacity, and standardized sampling depths. These defined parameters enable precise biomass estimation while keeping the operation simple through standardized procedures.
3Reliability
If remote activation system is implemented for cap and footplate, then sampling consistency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger line acts as an intermediary mechanism that transmits the operator's action from the surface to the submerged cap and footplate. This simple mechanical intermediary enables remote activation of the sealing mechanism, ensuring consistent sample containment while adding minimal complexity to the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap and footplate are designed to automatically seal the collection tube when the trigger line is activated, without requiring additional manual intervention once deployed. The mechanical linkage self-activates the sealing function, improving sampling consistency while minimizing the complexity of control mechanisms.
4Quantity of substance
If van Veen grab or CORE sampling is used, then substrate collection is improved, but sample retention or vessel availability becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The collection tube is nested within the deployment frame, and the containment bag is nested within or attached to the collection tube assembly. This nested configuration allows the sampling system to be compact for deployment while providing adequate sample capacity, and can be adapted to fit within various vessel types including small boats and kayaks, improving both sample collection capability and vessel compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The containment bag is constructed from flexible material that can conform to different collection tube diameters and can be easily deployed and retrieved. This flexible design enables effective sample retention through the bag's sealing mechanism while allowing the system to be used from various small vessels, thereby improving both substrate collection and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for collecting samples of one or more substrate can include the steps of: A) providing a sample collection tube having a first end and a second end, B) providing a cap pivotable about the first end and a footplate pivotable about the second end, C) biasing the cap and the footplate closed so that a watertight compartment can be established inside the tube; D) forcing the cap and the footplate open by attaching the cap and footplate to a releasable fastener, E) positioning the sample collection tube into the one or more substrate to collect the sample, followed by F) releasing the cap and footplate from the releasable fastener so that a watertight compartment is established inside the tube when the cap and the footplate are closed.