Surface Sampling Probe With Concentric Tubes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample collection techniques are inefficient for forming and withdrawing samples from surfaces, particularly those that are not confined, and require complex automation, limiting high-throughput sampling capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a surface sampling probe with concentric tubes and controlled nebulizing gas flow to form a liquid junction on the surface, allowing interaction with the sample material and subsequent controlled withdrawal of the sample, enabling sampling from any site across the surface without the need for precise probe positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a sampling probe with concentric tubes is used to conduct liquid solution onto the surface, then the sample collection efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs concentric tubes where an inner tube is nested within an outer tube. The inner tube conducts the liquid solution onto the surface while the outer tube provides structural support and defines the sampling aperture. This nested configuration allows multiple functions to be integrated into a single compact probe structure, improving sample collection efficiency without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If the probe tip is placed in close proximity to the surface for sampling, then the sampling precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a liquid junction that forms a meniscus between the inner and outer tubes at the probe tip. This liquid junction acts as a self-aligning mechanism that maintains consistent contact with the surface regardless of minor positioning variations. The liquid solution conducted through the inner tube forms a stable interface that ensures reproducible sampling without requiring extremely precise probe positioning.
3Adaptability or versatility
If liquid solution is conducted onto an unconfined surface, then the adaptability to different surface types is improved, but the loss of substance increases due to solution spreading
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the outer tube to define a specific aperture through which the liquid solution is conducted onto the surface. This creates a localized delivery zone that confines the solution to a specific area even on unconfined surfaces. The outer tube acts as a spatial constraint that prevents excessive spreading of the liquid solution, reducing substance loss while maintaining the ability to sample from various surface types.
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 approach automates the formation and withdrawal of a sample-rich liquid microjunction, facilitating high-throughput sampling and allowing for preselected exposure times, improving the efficiency and accuracy of sample collection from various surfaces, including TLC plates and tissue sections.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid solution is then conducted onto the surface through the port of the instrument so that the liquid solution conducted onto the surface interacts with material comprising the surface
Implementation Method 2
controlled nebulizing gas flow to form a liquid junction on the surface
Implementation Method 3
a sampling probe including a pair of concentrically-arranged outer and inner tubes providing concentrically-arranged outer and inner flow passageways
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for formation and withdrawal of a sample from a surface to be analyzed utilizes a collection instrument having a port through which a liquid solution is conducted onto the surface to be analyzed. The port is positioned adjacent the surface to be analyzed, and the liquid solution is conducted onto the surface through the port so that the liquid solution conducted onto the surface interacts with material comprising the surface. An amount of material is thereafter withdrawn from the surface. Pressure control can be utilized to manipulate the solution balance at the surface to thereby control the withdrawal of the amount of material from the surface. Furthermore, such pressure control can be coordinated with the movement of the surface relative to the port of the collection instrument within the X-Y plane.