Vacuum Liquid Extraction System for Trace Contaminant Purification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current analytical systems face challenges in detecting and processing chlorinated and brominated compounds at sub-part per trillion levels due to interference from surrounding contaminants, making it difficult to accurately test for toxins like dioxins and PCBs in food samples, and there is a need for simpler, compact, and efficient systems for sample analysis and pharmaceutical production.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum liquid extraction and purification system that includes a rotatable base with assay column assemblies and easy connect fittings for fluidic connections, allowing for the purification and concentration of trace substances such as pesticides, dioxins, and PCBs, while minimizing interference from the environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional extraction and purification systems are used, then the detection of trace substances can be performed, but the detection limits are insufficient due to interference from environmental contaminants
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes interfering environmental contaminants from the sample matrix through multiple purification stages. The system uses selective extraction to separate target analytes from interfering substances, effectively taking out the harmful factors that prevent accurate detection at trace levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary purification materials and stages between the sample and detection system. These intermediaries (purification columns, extraction phases) act as mediators that selectively retain or remove interfering substances while allowing target analytes to pass through, thereby protecting the detection system from environmental contamination.
2Measurement precision
If complex purification systems are implemented to achieve lower detection limits, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the purification process into multiple discrete stages or modules, each performing a specific function (e.g., different extraction phases, sequential purification columns). This segmentation allows the complex purification task to be broken down into manageable, standardized units that can be systematically arranged to achieve the desired detection precision without overwhelming system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs purification components with multi-functional capabilities, where single elements or modules can perform multiple operations (e.g., extraction, purification, concentration) or serve different analytical purposes. This universality reduces the overall number of separate components needed, thereby lowering device complexity while maintaining the capability to achieve low detection limits.
3Productivity
If automated purification systems are used to process large numbers of samples, then productivity increases, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates dynamic elements that allow the system to adapt its operation mode based on sample throughput requirements. The system can operate in fully automated mode for high-volume processing or be manually adjusted for lower-volume work, providing operational flexibility that balances productivity gains with acceptable levels of complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the automated purification system with self-service capabilities, where the system automatically performs sample processing, purification, and preparation without requiring constant operator intervention. This self-automation reduces the need for complex control systems and monitoring mechanisms, thereby increasing productivity while keeping device complexity and operational costs manageable.
4Ease of operation
If compact extraction systems are designed to simplify laboratory operations, then ease of operation improves, but processing capacity may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested or modular architecture where compact extraction units can be stacked or combined in series. This nesting principle allows the system to maintain a simple, space-efficient footprint while enabling scalable processing capacity - multiple compact modules can be integrated to handle larger sample volumes without sacrificing ease of operation or requiring a complete redesign of the basic unit.
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 system enables efficient extraction and purification of trace substances from various samples, improving detection limits and processing capacity, thus addressing the challenges of handling highly toxic compounds and providing a more practical and reliable analytical method.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum pump for selective fluidic coupling with the Stage 1 manifold and the Stage 2 manifold
Implementation Method 2
Vacuum liquid extraction and purification systems and methods
Implementation Method 3
at least one assay column assembly having at least a first assay column and at least one second assay column
Implementation Method 4
extraction, purification, fractionation and/or concentration of aqueous and solid materials including water, waste water, serum, milk, food, environmental, biological agricultural and pharmaceutical samples containing trace substances
Data Source
AI summary
The invention features compact systems and methods for vacuum liquid purification and extraction of a liquid sample.