Automated Toxicological Fluid Sample Preparation Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting and measuring toxics and toxicological effects in fluid samples are labor-intensive, expose workers to risks, and require skilled personnel, especially in non-clinical settings, and are not suitable for remote or hazardous environments.

Innovation Solution

An automatic toxicological fluid sample preparation module that autonomously obtains and prepares fluid samples using an inlet system, includes solvent addition, filtration, heating, cooling, and the use of indicator micro-organisms that emit light in response to toxins, enabling remote operation and improved statistical accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual sample handling is used, then flexibility in sample preparation is maintained, but labor intensity increases and worker safety is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSample preparation flexibilityVSAvoidLabor intensity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs sample preparation automatically without requiring skilled laboratory personnel. The automated sample preparation system handles all preparation steps independently, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining preparation quality and reducing labor intensity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical operations for sample preparation are replaced by an automated system that uses controlled mechanical processes. The system automatically performs mixing, filtration, and other preparation tasks through programmed mechanisms rather than manual handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual sample collection is used, then adaptability to different fluid types is maintained, but worker exposure to hazardous substances increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveFluid type adaptabilityVSAvoidWorker exposure to toxins
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses an intermediary automated collection mechanism that interfaces with fluid sources without requiring direct human exposure. The automated sampling system acts as a mediator between the operator and the potentially hazardous fluid, maintaining adaptability while preventing contact.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

Manual sample collection is replaced by an automated mechanical sampling system that can handle various fluid types. The system uses automated pumps and conduits to transfer samples, eliminating worker exposure to toxic substances while maintaining the ability to process different fluid types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If automated sample preparation is implemented, then labor intensity is reduced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveLabor efficiencyVSAvoidSystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The automated system is designed as a universal platform that can handle multiple sample preparation tasks through a single integrated mechanism. The system performs filtration, mixing, and other preparation steps using the same automated infrastructure, reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate specialized devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates pre-programmed preparation protocols that are set up in advance. All necessary preparation steps are predetermined and automatically executed, reducing the need for complex real-time decision-making and simplifying operation while maintaining high productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Measurement precision

If skilled personnel are required for analysis, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but accessibility to non-clinical settings is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveToxicological detection accuracyVSAvoidAccessibility to non-clinical settings
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs toxicological analysis automatically without requiring skilled personnel. The automated analysis system executes detection protocols independently, maintaining measurement accuracy through programmed precision while making the technology accessible to non-clinical settings where skilled labor may be unavailable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

The module enables efficient, automated, and accurate preparation of fluid samples for toxicological analysis, reducing labor and risk exposure, allowing for remote operation and improved detection of toxic effects, even in hazardous environments.

Implementation Method 1

the indicator micro-organisms emit light in response to toxins

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBioluminescence: Bioluminescence

Data Source

PatentEP2534493B1Automatic toxicological fluid sample preparation module, automatic analysis system and method for use thereof
Publication Date: 2019.12.11 DUTCH WATER TECH
  • EP2534493B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2534493B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2534493B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

This present invention relates to an automatic toxicological fluid sample preparation module and method for use thereof, for automatically preparing a fluid sample for the detection and measurement of toxics and/or toxicological effects. The invention further relates to an automatic analysis system. The automatic toxicological fluid sample preparation module comprising: an inlet for automatically obtaining a sample directly from a fluid or fluid stream to be analyzed; preparation means for preparing the fluid sample from the sample, comprising first coupling means for coupling with the inlet; and - an outlet for discharge of prepared fluid to measurement means, wherein the preparation means comprise indicator micro-organisms.