FIELD OF THE INVENTION:

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a solvent dispenser and more particularly to a control process for dispensing fluids under hydrostatic pressure and thereby identifying unknown solutions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

[0002] Dispensing fluids or solutions is a technique that benefits countless applications in both science and industry sectors. Spending significant time for manually preparing every solution in a long dilution series instead of focusing on the experimental measurement is a difficult task. So, there exists a wide gap in the research tools available in the art which are used for dispensing fluids in analytical and electrochemical applications.

[0003] The instruments available in the existing art are mostly glassware, that relied on user vision to monitor a fluid level, as with burettes and pipettes. Such tools are restrictive in three main ways such as visual error which is inherent to their titration utility, series production is manual and time consuming, and also, the inherent properties of a dispensing liquid becomes unnoticed. In other tools like bottle-top dispensers, a suction mechanism is the means of actuation for aliquot production. In these tools, the visual error is absent, but the inherent properties of a fluid remain unnoticed due to pressurized actuation.

[0004] To expand on the commentary of existing technologies, some recent dispensing machines are capable of producing solution series automatically where majority of these machines rely on pressurized actuation which calls for maintenance and also, the inherent liquid properties remains unnoticed. In addition, such technologies may incorporate level sensors to monitor the height of a liquid surface in a closed-loop process, which limits the dispensing accuracy of such machines. The present novelty produces solutions more accurately via means of open-loop observer control.

[0005] In the prior art, generally there exist two forms for preparing dilution series: either by hand using pipettes and volumetric glassware, or by using an existing dilution machine. [0006] References made relating the invention includes for example, the system owned by Phoenix International Life Sciences Inc. with US Patent Number 5,658,800, titled“Method for extraction, using extraction cartridge and automated extraction processing system”. In addition, a system developed by CH & I Technologies, Inc. with US Patent Number 8,534,499, titled“Integrated material transfer and dispensing system”. These existing system uses pumps/syringes to dispense fluids under pressure actuation.

[0007] The existing dilution machines rely on pressured systems to withdraw or eject solutions accordingly. This makes them costly and difficult to operate or setup. Therefore, the necessity for a simpler, less costly instrument is required in the ever-growing fields of research and industry. These desirable qualities are prompted by the modelling operation of the invention which provides an accessible tool to aid any user in their dispensing applications.

[0008] Thus, the process of present invention is in high demand for two main reasons as, it nullifies all the listed problems and the accuracy of its dispensing and identifying utilities are much higher when compared with the tools available in the art.

[0009] The proposed system is simple in its negligence of externally pressurized actuation where the liquid hydrostatics is the driving force and whose dynamics are modelled by a process that appropriates and identifies solutions accordingly.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

[0010] An objective of the present invention is to utilize simple mechanics to dispense fluids or solutions accurately and precisely without the use of pumps or syringes under hydrostatic pressure.

[0011] The present invention provides a system, a process and a method for dispensing liquids or fluids or solutions. The system of the present invention contains a burette having a liquid which dispenses under its natural gravitational influence. The instance, after a valve opens, the hydrostatic pressure for a fluid column is at its maximum relative value along with the liquid’s surface velocity. When the liquid dispenses, its gravitational potential energy decreases with the resulting loss of liquid, and it does so under transient behaviour. The result is a transient decay in a liquid’s surface velocity, the rate of which is intrinsic to its dynamic properties and allows the process to appropriate valve open periods portioning a liquid into an aliquot or series thereof. [0012] In the main embodiment, the proposed system comprises a motorized mechanism that converts an incremental rotation into a decrement in the vertical displacement of a hollow tube such that a precise vertical decrement results in the dispensing of a precise fluid aliquot. In another embodiment, the motorized valve with an adjustable time delay is controlled by the observer feedback of a liquid level sensor such that a precise time delay results in the dispensing of a desired fluid aliquot.

[0013] The present invention further provides a method for controlling the actuation of a burette valve in dispensing fluid which is performed either in two ways, i.e., one has a fixed or standard valve open period and the other has a customizable period depending on desired aliquot capacity. The difference among both the methods is the interval of dispensing time per aliquot.

[0014] In another embodiment, the present invention further provides a control process for actuating the burette valve for dispensing liquid, such that the process portions a liquid into precise aliquots by commanding valve open periods. In such embodiments the process achieves valve open periods by controlling a burette valve via motor actuation, wherein the valve is either static or rotating during valve open periods. Still in another embodiment, the process for controlling a burette valve by means of motor actuation, has a combination of a stationary magnetic body and a conductor that moves in tandem to dispensing liquid allows for induction, measurement and storage of electric potential.

[0015] According to the present invention, the induced hydrostatic gradient serves as the driving force behind the dispensing of fluid aliquots. The novel process creates aliquots and observes the resulting liquid capacity before relating these capacities to commanded valve open periods. The system so proposed creates a hydrodynamic model and determines the identification of unknown solution in series. They can also be used to dispense two or more different solutions, one of which is unknown and the other is of known properties. Thus, the present invention is also used for automating the production of dilution series and automating the performance of titration experiments.

[0016] The major benefit of the present invention is in the application and preparation of solution or dilution series in any field of interest, including but not limited to the pharmaceutical industry and chemistry laboratories.

The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING:

[0017] The objective of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates the motorized assembly according to the main embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] FIG. 2 shows a side view of a single unit for a bolt-less design of the machine;

[0020] FIG. 3 shows a front view of motor actuated burette according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] FIG. 4 shows a side view showing a reservoir and electric motor for valve control;

[0022] FIG. 5 shows a top view illustrating the valve actuation according to an embodiment; and [0023] FIG. 6 shows a front view of open-loop valve control with electrical observers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:

[0024] The proposed system of the present invention is capable of dispensing and identifying fluids by virtue of their natural flow. The fundamental aspect of its operation relies on the precise modelling of transient fluid dynamics, where such flow behavior is intrinsic to every Newtonian fluid dispensing under its own gravitational influence. More specifically, the dispenser according to the present invention takes full advantage of the gravitational potential of a fluid contained within a burette or a reservoir. By developing this system, the proposed process characterizes and dispenses the solutions at a great level of accuracy.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 1 , it illustrates the main embodiment of the present invention, where the system comprises of several components, including a reservoir 01 , an elongated hollow bolt 02, an adjacent follower or nut 03, and a worm gear 04 driven by an electric motor 05. Furthermore, a tray or turntable 1 1 is responsible for coordinating the collection of a dispensed solution into the appropriate test tube or flask or container 13, an electric motor 12 to control turning the tray or turntable, a icroprocessor 21 to coordinate all functions, and a user interface 22 to allow the system to communicate with the user. The assembly shown in FIG. 1 represents a main embodiment of the system. The above components represent the parts comprising of a single machine or unit. Since each reservoir can only contain one solution type, then every unit is capable of dispensing one solution.

[0026] These individual units are combined to make a larger system which is capable of dispensing multiple types of solutions depending on the application of interest. The total number of units or reservoirs can vary to suite the desired application (more advanced assays protocols require seven or more solutions). This enables the user to create any dilution series for any field of study. If the user intends for a different application other than dilution protocols, then the system is still capable of acting as a regular dispenser.

[0027] The mechanism or working of the main embodiment of the present invention is explained herein.

[0028] Each motor 05, 12 has a built-in rotary encoder that controls the motor’s stepwise rotation. An incremental rotation of the electric motor 05 causes the same incremental rotation of the worm gear 04. Next, the worm gear’s 04 rotation transmits into the rotation of the worm follower 03, which is also a nut (therefore labeled as the follower or nut). Since the nut 03 is in a fixed vertical position (along with the reservoir, the worm gear/motor, and the turntable/motor) then its incremental rotation transmits to an incremental vertical displacement in its threaded bolt 02. This bolt’s design incorporates an elongated section such that the upper portion of the bolt 02 remains unthreaded. This unthreaded section protrudes through the bottom of the reservoir 01. Since this bolt 02 is hollow along its entire length, the reservoir 01 can only contain a volume of fluid such that the height of the fluid is equivalent to the height of the protruding bolt 02. The equivalence between the fluid level in the reservoir 01 and the hollow bolt 02 is a property of hydrostatic equilibrium. Therefore, an incremental decrease in the bolt’s 02 height (actuated by the incremental rotation of the electric motor 05) is bound to disrupt the hydrostatic equilibrium in favour of the machine. The incremental disruption of hydrostatic equilibrium acts as the driving force in this invention, such that a mechanically precise height reduction of the hollow bolt 02 actuates an invariant hydrostatic pressure gradient. This gradient works to dispense the reservoir’s fluid through the hollow bolt 02 (which is then collected in a container 13 atop of the turntable 1 1 supported by an electric motor 12) until the fluid’s level equates the height of the hollow bolt 02, at which point the hydrostatic equilibrium is restored once again. The mechanical design of both gear stages (Stage 1 is the worm gear 04 to follower or nut 03, Stage 2 is the nut 03 to the bolt 02) is optimized to control the relationship between an incremental rotation of the motor 05 and the resulting change in height of the hollow bolt 02. This mechanism thus negates the use of feedback sensors to monitor the fluid height. While probing the system’s hydrostatics means, the difficulties in monitoring and back solving for the pressure at every fluid height becomes effectively avoided in the present invention. The incorporation of a hollow bolt 02 within a motorized worm-gear set 04 allows the invention to actuate precise decrements in the height of the bolt 02. Such decrements cause the discharge of an incremental fluid volume.

[0029] In some embodiments, the worm gear set 04 and hollow bolt 02 are bypassed by using a liquid level sensor 103 to observe the transience in liquid level as the system portions a fluid into aliquots. This observed transience allows the process to appropriate the valve open periods for producing the following aliquot series. As such the process produces series of aliquots by means of iterative open loop valve control. This embodiment is seen in FIG. 2 and is also referred to as the bolt-less embodiment. The operations of bolt-less embodiments, and the importance of incorporating the two mechanical stages used by the main embodiments (shown in FIG. 1) becomes apparent.

[0030] The bolt-less machine shown in FIG. 2 is comprised of several components, including a reservoir 100, a sensor 103 (to monitor the volume/height of solution in the reservoir), a valve 101 and an electric motor 102 (to control the valve). Further, it includes a tray/turntable 1 1 , an electric motor 12 (to control turn the tray/turntable), a microprocessor 21 (to coordinate all functions) and a user interface 22 to allow the system to communicate with the user.

[0031] Since the reservoir 100 is open to the surroundings, the system is reliant on hydrostatics to force a fluid out through the valve 101. By opening and closing the valve 101 for a certain valve open period with an electric motor 102, a certain aliquot of fluid dispenses, thus the height of the fluid in the reservoir decreases. If the valve 101 opens and closes precisely with the same amount of time, only smaller and smaller volumes of fluid is collected. This is a direct consequence of the fact that the hydrostatic pressure keeps decreasing whereas the valve 101 keeps opening for the same amount of time. Thus, the bolt-less machine relies on liquid level sensor 103 to observe the resulting transience in liquid level as the system performs a dispensing protocol. The process uses observations to create a hydrodynamic model relating valve actuation to transience in liquid level. This model enables the process to appropriate its next series of valve open periods for producing the following aliquot series based on desirable capacities. The process is independent of the type of hardware used to observe liquid transience; in later embodiments comprising a burette, the narrow glassware may restrict the process from employing a liquid level sensor. In such embodiments the process employs an external observer provided by the scientist, such as a mass balance, to provide estimates of aliquot capacities produced. These estimates are relayed to the microprocessor 21 by the observer which then creates a hydrodynamic model unique to the natural properties of a dispensing liquid. Afterwards, refilling the reservoir to a certain liquid level and prompting the process to dispense desirable aliquot capacities will happen as follows; the process determines valve open periods per aliquot arbitrarily or based on a previous hydrodynamic model, then actuates the motor 102 to open the valve 101 for such periods. As the liquid dispenses from the reservoir 100, the liquid level sensor 103 records transience in liquid level and relays this information to microprocessor 21 creating a hydrodynamic model per series of aliquots produced. Repeating these steps, first by refilling the reservoir to the same previous level, will yield another aliquot series and thus another hydrodynamic model. The process iterates upon this open loop dispensing process until producing aliquot series of desirable capacities per aliquot. Thus the dispensing accuracy arises from iterative open-loop operation in reference to observe models of hydrodynamics.

[0032] In both embodiments, where different volumes are required in different test tubes or flasks 13, the system actuates the turntable’s motor 12 to spin the turntable 1 1 into position, such that the test tube or flask 13 aligns directly under the dispensing valve 101. This means that the machine is not only able to dispense variable volumes sequentially (i.e. without user interference), but is also able to coordinate which test tube or flask 13 receives which volume/aliquot. This embodiment enables the system to create an indefinite variety of dilution series, calibration series (e.g. standard addition), and any other appropriate protocol for analytical applications including but not limited to pharmaceutical, medicinal, chemical, culinary, industrial or academic/research applications.

[0033] In certain embodiments, the reservoir 01 , 100 comprises of any desirable shape, including but not limited to a cylindrical, spherical, tubular, conical, cubic, rectangular, triangular, or any other shape of reservoir, including tapered prims. The ideal shape of the reservoir in certain embodiments is any shape with a non-varying cross-sectional area. The main embodiment’s reservoir 01 shows a regular cylinder in FIG. 1. The reason behind the use of a non-varying cross-sectional area is to ensure that every height decrement of the hollow bolt results in the dispensing of a known and calibrated volume aliquot. This way, the actual positioning of the bolt is not a concern, and the only dependent factor is the change in its height. In combination with the previous embodiments, the hollow bolt is comprised of a threaded hollow cylinder of a suitable material. [0034] In combination with the previous embodiments, the shape of the turntable 1 1 is round. In other combinations, a conveyer belt replaces the turntable 1 1 to allow for a more appropriate configuration or assembly. Such embodiments are more suitable for industrial settings.

[0035] In above mentioned embodiments, the size of the reservoir 01 , 100, hollow bolt 02, follower or nut 03, worm gear 04, motors 05, 12, 102 and turntable 1 1 are also variable from the smallest size to the largest size possible.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the material used for the reservoir 01 , 100 is glass, however in other embodiments the reservoir 01 , 100 is out of any possible material. This is similar for the hollow bolt 02, which is made out of glass in certain embodiments or of any appropriate material.

[0037] To reiterate, the main embodiment of the present invention has its application in the automation and creation of a solution/dilution series. The series could range anywhere from a single sample to any other number of samples (10s, 100s, 1000s, etc.) depending on the desired use. Such embodiments are capable of creating samples consisting of a range of volumes, anywhere from microliters, milliliters, liters and beyond depending on the user requirements.

[0038] In other embodiments of the present invention, the system has further applications in the identification of fluids or solutions. This is because of the fact that the invention is sensitive to the hydrostatic properties of a fluid, meaning that it is capable of appreciating the density of a solution into a quantifiable and identifiable scale. Since, the main embodiment utilizes the 2-stage mechanism, the height decrements of the hollow bolts 02 are independent of the fluid contained in the reservoir 01 , and therefore the present invention behaves with the same mechanisms listed previously regardless of the fluid. This means, that a certain decrement in the height of the hollow bolt 02 results in the dispensing of the same volume increment no matter the fluid. The only difference being that different fluids will have different masses for the same volume increment dispensed. This works in favour of the primary mechanistic goal achieved by this system, which is simply the delivery of desired fluid aliquots according to the user’s preference. In addition to favouring and simplifying the mechanistic performance, this system also aids the user in applications involving fluid identification which are explained herein as follows:

[0039] The previous embodiment discloses solution involved or dispensed in general and are not specific. In case, if the definition of any solution is unsure, these embodiments can be utilized to identify the type of solution(s) involved, and then proceed onto the previously described application, which prepares or dispenses a series of solutions at the desire of the user.

[0040] Described below is flow of the system according to certain embodiments of the present invention for dispensing any solution:

[0041] Software Logic Flow: Two Stage or Dual Stage Mechanics

Prompts the user to specify the desired total fluid volume in each flask or test-tube 13, as well as the dilution factor.

Microprocessor 21 ensures that the turntable 11 aligns such that the first solution to dispense collects into the appropriate test tube or flask or container 13.

Microprocessor 21 sends a command to the worm gear’s electric motor 05, causing it to perform an incremental turn of the worm gear 04 and thus an increment or decrement in the height of the hollow bolt 02.

- Accordingly, volume increment collects in appropriate flask or test-tube 13 and the microprocessor 21 sends the next command to the motor 05 responsible for dispensing the following fluid aliquot.

[0042] Software Logic Flow: Bolt-less Mechanics

Prompts the user to specify how many types of solutions are required to dispense.

Prompts the user to specify which solution is contained in which reservoir 100. If solution type is unknown, the algorithm executes the commands responsible for the identification protocol. Once this protocol is complete, the software prompts the user to agree on the final solution types.

Prompts the user to specify which solution goes into which test tube or flask 13. The turntable 11 is pre-numbered so that the user is able to define each test tube or flask 13 with its associated position. In a certain embodiment, where the system does not require a turntable 11 , then the positioning of the test tubes or flasks 13 remains the responsibility of the user, in which case this prompt bypasses.

Prompts the user to specify the amount or volumes of each solution required in every test tube or flask 13.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the above logic flow varies depending on the desired application. Microprocessor 21 executes the following appropriate part of the algorithm responsible for the coordination and preparation of the desired solution series.

Microprocessor 21 ensures that the turntable 1 1 aligns such that the first solution to dispense collects into the appropriate test tube or flask or container 13.

Microprocessor 21 commands motor 05 to open valve 101 for a series of valve open periods where each period is respective to a desirable aliquot in series, producing an aliquot or series thereof.

Microprocessor 21 institutes a delay in motor 05 actuation between production periods, such to align the appropriate flask to its respective aliquot.

Sensor 103 maintains feedback about the volume or height of every solution in their respective reservoirs 100.

Microprocessor 21 interprets information from sensor 103 after dispensing all aliquots, relating the transience in liquid-level data to the valve open periods commanded previously, creating a hydrodynamic model that identifies liquid properties or allows the process to appropriate the next set of valve open periods to produce the following aliquot series.

Microprocessor 21 repeats the algorithm until the process dispenses a series of aliquots with desired precision in liquid quantities.

[0044] In other applications of the previous embodiments, the system is capable of automating titration reactions and thus aids the user in the determination of any equivalence point precisely and reproducibly. Such embodiments used alone or in combination with any other embodiments or applications.

[0045] Provided several drawings show the two main embodiments of the process, but numerous variations are achievable. FIG. 3 shows a front view of some embodiments, comprising a burette B and electric motor A for valve control, along with several other parts. FIGS. 4 to 6 show respective views along the side, top and front of another embodiment comprising a reservoir or burette B and electric motor A for valve control, amongst other parts.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 3, is a setup of a certain embodiment. In this embodiment, an electric motor A fits to a burette B via an adapter C that joins a burette’s valve D to a motor shaft A’. A secondary motor A” rotates a turntable A’” beneath the burette outlet B’ accordingly, and allows the process to automate any series of solutions. A nut D’ screws onto the valve from one end, as shown, along with a rubber O-ring D” such as to adjust the valve fit by pressing a PTFE seal D’” against or away from the burette. A rotary encoder E is bound directly to the valve on one end and is responsible for angular position measurements. A fixture F attaches the motor A and encoder to the burette B, both are stationary above the ground by means of a support G. This fixture F also houses a power source H to power all components, including a user interface I, microprocessor J and electric motors A, A”, as seen in FIG. 3. In other embodiments, where portability is not of concern, the process operates on external power sources. A flask K beneath the outlet B’ collects its respective liquid aliquot; this process is capable of dispensing varieties of solution series, so an automated reception mechanism is quite desirable (as is set forth).

[0047] With reference to the microprocessor component J shown in all figures and most embodiments, the part may house several peripherals to its central processing unit including timers, clocks, ports and memory.

[0048] With reference to the electric motors A, A” used in this embodiment and others, an internal rotatory encoder allows a microprocessor J to measure and position the driving shaft A’ and their subsequent attachments. This closed-loop control of shaft position is a preference employed by some embodiments, and is not required for the novel operation of open-loop portioning of liquids into aliquots.

[0049] In some embodiments, rotary encoders E are positioned such that it is in alignment with the valve D on the opposite end and route its signals in a logic line, as in FIG. 3. The process is able to monitor the actual position of the valve D and its channel in respect to its alignment with the burette B, such that an electric motor A remains under actuation until reaching the desired position of the burette valve D. It is employed to account for the slight inaccuracy in the adapter’s fit between its counterparts, since tiny misalignments in the channels of the setup were causing undesirable results in aliquot delivery. The adapter is necessary to account for the variations in the burette’s valve D design to preserve the utility and compatibility of the process with existing glassware used in research.

[0050] As disclosed, the application of rotary encoder E depends on the manner of valve actuation. In some embodiments, the encoder E is useful, however in other embodiments employing valve sweeps, it is not as important. The two manners of valve actuation are explained in the following paragraphs. These are applicable to all embodiments differently, and the process is capable of utilizing both actuation manners uniquely depending on the nature of a dispensing liquid and the particular setup employed. [0051] The process works to deliver aliquots of liquid by actuating a motor A to turn the valve D in two distinct manners, in both of which, the total time the valve D spends in an open position corresponds to the delivery of a precise volume of solution. The first manner is a direct approach; the valve channel is perpendicular to outlet flow when closed, such that a 90-degree rotation of the motor shaft A’ aligns the channel vertically in its open position, as shown in FIG. 3. In such a manner, the total time in which the valve is open corresponds to the time that the valve remains under stationary alignment, in addition to a miniscule amount of time spent during the transition between ON and OFF positions.

[0052] For the second method, the actuating motor shaft A’ turns at a predetermined angular velocity such that the valve channel sweeps in and out of alignment at a constant or transient rate. As such, a continuous rotation of the motor shaft A’ will result in two sweeps per revolution and thus yields two aliquots per revolution of a single channel valve. In such a manner, the delivery of a single aliquot corresponds to the dynamic time spent under valve D alignment in a single sweep of the burette B between OFF, ON and OFF positions. Therefore, the volume of every aliquot in relation to the sweep rate is inherent to the variation in hydrodynamics along the burette column during every sweep. Between sweeps or deliveries of aliquots, the system may implement a delay before the next sweep such as to align a flask K for aliquot reception by rotating the turntable A’” appropriately.

[0053] Since the burette B channel has a larger diameter than the channel of its valve, a single constant sweep of the valve will normalize the variation in flow rate associated with the valve’s actuation. This process is able to appropriate a valve open period by commanding a sweep velocity across the path length travelled by the valve between the onset and offset of liquid flow for every sweep. A sweeping actuation performs in two main methods; the first method uses the same sweep velocity for every subsequent aliquot, which means that the valve remains open for the same time along every sweep. Application of this method refers to a liquid characterization protocol. For the second method, the sweep velocity and therefore the valve open period is different in every subsequent aliquot, which the process employs as a dispensing protocol.

[0054] Upon usage, the user fills the burette B to a certain level of dispensing liquid L and ensures that the flask K is in alignment beneath the burette’s outlet B’, as seen in FIG. 3. In addition, the user ensures a calibrated instrument by aligning the valve channel to a horizontal level in its closed setting, or to a vertical level for its open state. Afterwards, the user may choose one of the two methods as explained herein. The first method employs a characterization protocol, whereas the second method employs a dispensing protocol. [0055] In all embodiments, the characterization protocol is an open loop process meaning the system operates regardless of the response or outcome. The protocol employs either manner of valve actuation as discussed to portion a liquid L into aliquots. After completing said protocol, the process quantifies aliquot capacities by weight and relates aliquot capacity to its respective valve open period, creating a hydrodynamic model and thus concludes characterization. To then proportion said liquid, the process applies a second method referred to as the dispensing protocol. This is also an open loop process in all embodiments wherein the process commands a series of valve open periods based on desirable aliquot capacity and data from a previous hydrodynamic model. The precise details of each method vary with the type of embodiment.

[0056] For a particular embodiment employing the setup, shown in FIG. 3, the characterization protocol involves the production of a calibration series and performs in the following manner. At first, the user specifies the number of individual aliquots required. A microprocessor J reads this data and begins the delivery of the first aliquot by actuating the motor A to open the valve D for a predefined period using either of the two manners explained previously. After a certain interval of time, during which the valve is static or sweeping, the valve returns to its closed position and thus concludes its primary delivery of a single aliquot.

[0057] Next, the microprocessor J actuates a secondary motor A” to position the turntable A’” such that the next flask K is beneath the burette B. To deliver a second aliquot, along with the remainder, the same process described in its first delivery repeats. In fact, for this particular embodiment, the main difference in the protocol between characterizing and dispensing modes is the interval of dispensing time per aliquot. The former mode is fixed, as discussed, and the latter has an adjustable time interval for every aliquot so as to grant the user with more operational utility.

[0058] For a characterization protocol, the valve open period is the same in every respective or subsequent aliquot. So, in the context of a naturally dispensing liquid, as found in most embodiments, the resulting difference in volumes for a produced aliquot series depends solely on the hydrostatic transience inherent to any dispensing liquid. The process under characterization mode, helps in identifying the unknown properties based on the volume variation of delivered aliquots with respect to valve time or sweep.

[0059] For estimating capacity of every aliquot or series, the first embodiment employs an external tool whereas the following embodiments utilize an internal measurement technique. When the setup in FIG. 1 is taken to produce a solution series, the mass of each aliquot is measured using a mass balance and pre-weighed flasks K. Although, the choice of mass or volume measurement depends on the user, along with their available tools, it is found that a mass balance is the most accurate and reliable device available. In addition, since the purpose of the invention is to alleviate the human error involved in visual measurements of volumes, a mass balance seems most appropriate. Therefore, the process is used to dispense a solution series under either protocol (characterizing or dispensing), and the interface prompts its user to indicate a mass (or volume) for every aliquot in series. This information creates hydrodynamic models useful to the process in two main ways, the density of an unknown becomes identifiable, and the instrument may calibrate itself before implementing a dispensing protocol.

[0060] For a dispensing protocol, the user specifies using the user interface I, a desirable number of aliquots along with their respective volumes. Afterwards, the system uses the calibration data to appropriate a special valve open time interval for every aliquot, and proceeds to dispense the requested series using either manner of valve actuation (preferably sweeping), as previously discussed. As such, the user may iterate any protocol to gauge titration equivalence.

[0061] The results obtained from this embodiment were highly accurate and useful. The density of an unknown solution was determined with immense precision, equivalence points were reproducible, and the repeatability in volumes of produced series was remarkable. Several alternative embodiments are present, one of which is shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, that satisfy the results of the previous embodiments.

[0062] Alternative embodiment of the present invention uses magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), to appropriate the valve open period by measurement of transient flow behaviour. The process invented operates on a dynamic principle and measures an induced voltage in relation to the velocity of a conductor moving in tandem to a dispensing liquid contained within non-pressurized reservoirs, whereby the process implements a liquid characterization protocol or dispensing protocol. Therefore, magnetohydrodynamics is used in the measurement and proportioning of a naturally dispensing fluid, where the conductor is a surface body whose composition is solid in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the conductor is a surface film or internal electrolytic standard. As such, the choice of conductor material depends on the nature of a dispensing fluid.

[0063] With reference to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4-6, the liquid L is contained inside a burette body B” held above a flask K by its supports G. The bottom of the burette B is fitted with a valve D and a threaded nut D’, and alignment of the valve D and reservoir channels allow the liquid to dispense naturally. The nut D’ seals the valve D by pressing a rubber O-ring D” and PTFE seal D’” upon the glass body, as shown in most figures. The valve has a single channel to control the flow of liquids, so switching it ON and OFF requires one quarter of a revolution. Some embodiments use valves with multiple channels, and therefore the rotational distance between ON and OFF states may vary. For the process to control the valve D automatically, an electric motor A fits to the valve’s front end. This motor A attaches to the burette B using a bracket fixture F’ and connects to the microprocessor J, which is able to provide various methods for liquid analysis or series production. To power all components, some embodiments use an onboard power source H as shown in FIG. 4, which offers portability. In other embodiments, where portability is not of concern, the process may operate on external power sources.

[0064] An onboard interface placed on the side of the burette B allows the user to employ the process under several useful protocols, including the choice of operation under characterizing or dispensing modes, as explained in previous embodiments. Another component connected to the microprocessor J is a secondary electric motor A” and turntable A’”, which allow the process to coordinate and interchange between desired aliquots and their respective flasks or collectors K, as previously stated.

[0065] Methods of valve actuation described by the first embodiment are the same for this embodiment and others. In this case, the preference between the first and second manners of valve actuation can depend on the desirable use of the process. If large aliquots are required, a stationary valve in its open position can be utilized. If smaller samples are required, the valve in rotational motion for dispensing aliquot can be utilized. In both manners, the process controls the period of time a valve spends in its open flow position. In addition, the microprocessor J is used as a combination of parts that induce an output signal, for valve control and liquid characterization.

[0066] With reference to FIG. 4 and other figures, a permanent magnet M fits along the length or width of the burette B with each pole on either side and is supported by rails or mounts M’. Between the poles, an electrically insulated conductor N sits in tandem to the surface of a liquid via buoyant supports N’ and maintains a sliding electrical contact with an electrode O and its pair O’, found in an adjacent electrode cell O”. FIGS. 4 to 6 show a single conductor N connected to three pairs of electrodes. This embodiment is elaborate further on a characterization utility employed by the process, as below. [0067] To fill the burette B up to its maximum capacity, a small tap P is fitted to a side (shwn in FIGS. 5 and 6) thus setting a known maximum height. The tap level is in position to ensure that a full capacity does not place the surface conductor N beyond its contact points with its electrodes O and O’. In this way, the user simply fills the burette B with a solution until the liquid’s level is near that of the tap P, wherein a minimal overflow discharges from the burette B and thus prepares a process with an accurate initialization or calibration. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, where the process dispenses a volatile liquid, a sealed reservoir minimizes evaporative fluid loss and the side taps P would serve a secondary purpose of maintaining the atmospheric pressure within the burette B. It is evident that in all the embodiments, the side taps P can be fitted with a seal whether manual or automatic, so that during idle periods or times of preference, a liquid remains safely reserved by the process.

[0068] Once the burette B is close to being empty, the conductor N loses its electrode O contact before settling on the bottom of the reservoir. As such, the process is able to record the instance upon which the signal cuts and actuates the valve D to close as quickly as the hardware permits. This corresponds to a concluded delivery of the desired solution series. The algorithm used in solution series production are explained herein as follows. A delay is obviously present between the times that the signal drops to the time that a valve D needs to close. Such delays are repeatable, and the error in delivery of the last aliquot due to a delayed closing response was quantifiable. As such, its impact on accuracy and precision of aliquot delivery was not of great significance nor concern. Usually, a small remainder of liquid resides in the reservoir after a conductor N settles on the bottom surface. This remainder is of a known volume, but nonetheless, if the user plans to refill the system with the same liquid previously dispensed then such remainders are not of concern. However, if a different liquid is desired, the user can prompt the process to eject any remaining liquid, essentially draining a burette B if need.

[0069] Different liquids have different densities and viscosities, and therefore they express unique transience in liquid surface velocities. The present invention measures the voltage over a period, in which electric induction is occurring (while the liquid is dispensing) by virtue of conductor motion, each type of dispensing liquid yields a unique transient voltage signal by virtue of its transient surface velocity. The present invention measures, stores and displays this unique signal, and employs an algorithm or software to translate the voltage signal into a velocity distribution with respect to dispensing time. The process is also able to integrate and differentiate these signals, which allows it to characterize the nature (or density) of a dispensing liquid before proceeding into a more functional role of producing aliquots in dilution or concentration series. A successful characterization, whether iterated or not, calibrates the process by yielding a system model unique to every liquid. Several iterations of characterization will enhance the dispensing accuracy.

[0070] The electrode cells O” are composed of electrodes O fixed to an insulated assembly. The permanent magnet M produces a uniform magnetic field across the burette B, in some embodiments where the conductor N is an insulated metal wire, with a sliding connection between the conductor N and electrodes O and O’ by a lead Q or brush protruding from the top surface of a buoyant support N’ found in each cell. The buoyant supports ensure the conductor N moves in tandem to the surface of a liquid. Other embodiments may employ a direct sliding contact between the conductor N and electrodes O and O’.

[0071] The electrode cells O” present are also bearings that attempt to appropriate conductor motion to a single degree of linearity. By facing electrodes O and O’ appropriately, the conductor N moves at right angles to a supplied magnetic field. Thus, while the liquid dispenses into the flask K, the resulting motion of a conductor N through a supplied magnetic field induces an electric current through electrodes O and O’ and into the microprocessor J that samples and stores induction voltage and amperage. This data then generates a dispensing model unique to each type of liquid, and as such allows the process to proportion liquids at high accuracy using its dispensing algorithm. Also, in utility to this invention is a post-processing algorithm used to characterize the dispensed liquid.

[0072] In other embodiments, where the conductor N is a superconductive liquid or film, electrical connection between such conductors N and electrodes O and O’ is through direct surface contact. In some embodiments, where said liquid is contained within the surface body or conductor N, electrical connections to electrodes O and O’ are via leads Q or contacts like before. Yet in all embodiments, the choice of electrode potential depends on the type of conductor N and the nature of a dispensing liquid. Some embodiments may incorporate a setup with a nullified potential difference across the burette B, whereas other embodiments rely on a probed potential difference.

[0073] The logic flow between components is helpful to clarify the schematics presented. In the figures provided, combination of certain electrical components with logic lines Q’, which are single cords containing several wires for power and signal lines transmission between electric motors A, A” and the microprocessor J. Depending on the type of electric motor used, the numbers of individual wires can vary, but the logic flow remains the same. In some embodiments, the process may operate more efficiently by incorporating motor drivers in series to the logic lines Q’ such that the microprocessor J ensures optimum communication with its motors A, A” and peripherals. In addition, between the power source H and microprocessor J are two lines to resemble the positive and negative terminal connections.

[0074] Furthermore, each electrode O has a single lead Q” to transmit electric signals to the microprocessor J, or an intermediate circuit such as an amplifier or ballast circuit for processing beforehand. In some embodiments, when the power source H or battery runs out of charge, the process may still operate by relaying electrode leads Q from a measurement output circuit into the terminals of the battery for charge reversal.

[0075] With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the number of electrodes employed by a process depends on the particular application. The minimum operational condition entails the process to a pair of electrodes O’ and a single conductor N, where each electrode O stands on either side of its conductor N. The embodiment shown in FIG. 3 highlights the utility of three pairs of electrodes for six electrodes present in total. As such, the process may employ the following combinations or their variety: a single conductor with three brushes or leads, as shown, or three separate conductors each with isolated leads to their respective electrodes. Such a setup portrays the utility of this process in its capacity to compare an output signal routing through several electrodes at once, wherein the differential response allows the process to quantify the properties of liquids, electrodes or conductors.

[0076] Under characterization mode, the system instructs the user to fill the burette B to a known liquid level, preferably at full capacity but not necessarily. The flask K must also be of an appropriate size for liquid reception. After filling the burette B, a characterization process performs by opening the valve (using either manner of actuation) until the burette is empty. During this period, the system records a voltage signal outputted by its conductor. Once the signal reaches a nullified value, the process actuates the valve to close and proceeds to characterize the liquid as follows. Repeating this protocol several times by refilling the burette B with the dispensed liquid allows the system to perform a more precise calibration.

[0077] Afterwards, the process converts acquired voltage data into transient velocity information. Next, the process manipulates both these sets of data into differential and integral relations and solutions, such that the process identifies all parameters required to solve Euler’s transient flow equation for liquid density. Therefore, the process identifies the density of an unknown liquid and is able to generate a dispensing model, and hence may continue to proportion this liquid into specific aliquots, by the dispensing protocol as below. [0078] In some embodiments, the system employs the previous characterization protocol using an identified liquid and electrodes of unknown potentials, kinetics or electroactive areas. Amidst the dispensing period, the process records a voltage variation along the lengths of electrodes and compares its results to a desirable signal from a previous calibration protocol. Any signal difference allows the system to identify several characteristics for a particular electrode or electrochemical experiment conducted prior to a characterization protocol, including but not limited to: electrode potentials, kinetics, film formations and electroactive surface areas. Following on, the characterization protocol concludes one calibration cycle for the instrument in respect to its electrodes or dispensing liquid. Afterwards, the process may continue to operate under a dispensing protocol explained in the following sections.

[0079] After calibration, the system is ready to deliver any quantity and volume of aliquots so long as the reservoir has enough supply. Assuming it does, the process performs the following steps to dispense accurate liquid volumes. The interface prompts the user to specify the number of aliquots desired and their respective volumes. The process decides on appropriate valve open periods, after which the microprocessor J actuates the motor A to open the valve and begin dispensing the first aliquot into a collector or flask K, as drawn. If titration is required, the user guesses a dispensing series to begin, and then prompts the process (through interface) to halt its protocol upon reaching equivalence.

[0080] For this embodiment, the process performs either open-loop or closed-loop aliquot production. The actual values (initial conditions) of the control algorithm are samples of the induced voltage in a measurement circuit or its differential. The desired result is a requested volume or aliquot, which is user specific, and translates into a desired difference in liquid level. Since the process has already modelled velocity and voltage relations in respect to dispensing time and therefore liquid level, as explained in a characterization protocol, the system is able to appropriate a time increment corresponding to a period of dispensing flow. Since the process employs an iterative control method, a high sampling rate of the voltage signal provides higher accuracy in dispensing performance.

[0081] For closed-loop aliquot production pertaining to minor embodiments, the difference between actual and desired values (in either voltage or valve time) appropriates the system to dispense accurate aliquots. For a naturally dispensing liquid, its velocity profile and therefore voltage profile is transient over time. Therefore, the system may employ a real-time algorithm at high loop rates, and thus iterates the valve open period for every single aliquot. In doing so, the system eventually reaches an agreement between actual and desired voltages or valve times and thus actuates its valve to close. The process institutes a margin of error between such agreements to account for the minor delay in the valve’s closing response time. Such a margin of error implements a certain sweeping rate while closing the valve. Such margins reduce the dispensing flow regiment from a uniform flow in a thoughtful way such that the miniscule amount of liquid dispensed while closing the valve is accounted for by the margin of error instated. Thus, the process concludes its delivery of a single aliquot. If the machine produces a full series, either a dilution or concentration series, the system institutes a delay before the delivery of a successive aliquot. Such a delay ensures that the secondary motor has enough time to position its turntable appropriately, such that the next flask is ready to receive its respective aliquot and the dispensing protocol henceforth repeats.

[0082] Herein, all embodiments are virtuous to an observer-based method to the experimental determination of transfer functions and hydrodynamic models by reliance on hydrodynamic repeatability. The system comprises a burette or reservoir and its rotary valve, where the valve body contains a fluid that dispenses as per its natural flow regiment. A motor whose behaviour governed by a controller actuates the rotary valve. The motor may behave under several distinct manners, either static or dynamic or both, where either manner is common by producing aliquots whose quantities in mass or volume are controlled by this process according to controlled valve open periods. Such time periods are determined based on a hydrodynamic model. The transience in hydrodynamics of a naturally dispensing solution is estimated based on the hydrodynamic model of the present invention.

[0083] Such estimates arise by virtue of observer-based design. The present invention makes use of either an external observer or electrical observer or both. For the former, the observer estimates the fluid capacity per aliquot using visual reference of graduation per aliquot or weight per aliquot, as preferred. In such embodiments, the system estimates a transfer function relating aliquot capacities to controller signal or valve open periods. These derived transfer functions represent the hydrodynamic models estimating system behaviour according to fluid dynamics and valve actuation, and based upon discrete estimates of liquid portions in cascading aliquot series.

[0084] For the latter, electrical observer, embodiments utilize a processor or data logger to observe electrical estimates of hydrodynamics. To activate the electrical observer, a conductive internal standard is responsible for inducing electric signals by virtue of its synonymy to system hydrodynamics. The induction process occurs when a liquid and its internal standard move through a magnetic field orthogonally, where a magnetic body creates the magnetic field and the induced signal routes to observer/processor via pairs of electrodes. Now, for the conductive internal standard, two variations are possible; a surface conductor, albeit an insulated wire or conductive film, or a chemical internal standard. Therefore, the electrical observer estimates a hydrodynamic model by recording the induction signal provided by hydrodynamics of internal standards. This induced signal has a transience intrinsic to the physical dynamics of this process. By observing the transience in such signals, and by observing the aliquot capacities delivered by this process, a relation establishes between electrical transience and aliquot capacities.

[0085] As such, using either external or electrical observers or both, the system produces a hydrodynamic model for every case where the system portions its liquid capacity. Filling the burette to a certain level in each case will yield reliable hydrodynamic models wherein a systematic comparison between different models quantify desirable parameters or properties. With utmost precision in liquid releveling comes great utility in producing accurate and comparable models by virtue of consistency in fluid dynamics.

[0086] Therefore, the scientist/users may benefit from such system in many ways. The following three utilities pertain for operation in system identification.

[0087] Firstly, the process may use a common motor and uncommon liquid to produce aliquot series where each series identifies a transfer function and hydrodynamic model by virtue of external or electric observer estimates. Such transfer functions are unique to the nature of a liquid and therefore, the process compares transfer functions of aliquot series to identify liquid properties.

[0088] Secondly, the use of a common liquid allows the process to reproduce hydrodynamic models with each liquid series pertaining to a certain motor dynamic. Therefore, the process creates multiple liquid series of a common liquid, each with different controller inputs so as the comparison of hydrodynamic models identifies actuator properties.

[0089] Thirdly in utility, for embodiments with electrical observers, the process combines a common liquid and common motor with uncommon electrodes or uncommon internal standards so as the production of aliquot series and hydrodynamic transfer functions allows the process to identify electrode kinetics or internal standards or both.

[0090] The following two benefits pertain to the utility of observer-based hydrodynamics in the automation of liquid portioning systems as such. [0091] Fourthly in utility, the process combines a common liquid, common motor and a common observer to proportion a liquid according to a previously identified hydrodynamic model. Such a utility refers to the dispensing protocol in accordance with the present invention. To automate dispensing protocols and system identification, the process actuates according to a previous hydrodynamic model and follows by means of open-loop valve control (for all embodiments) or closed-loop valve control (for embodiments with electrical observers). In such dispensing protocols, the process combines an identified transfer function or model to desirable outcomes in aliquot or electrical capacities; as such, the process determines appropriate controller signals or actuator dynamics to deliver aliquot series accordingly. While an observer may opt to switch flasks manually between aliquot deliveries, a turntable assembly is attractive to the automation process. Aliquots therefore collect in a common flask or separate flasks as desired by the chemist.

[0092] Fifthly, the efficacy of titration and separation experiments enhance significantly by virtue of the disclosed methods. To observe the outcome of titration and separation procedures whilst employing modern controllers and actuators. Such employments ensure that titration and separation procedures occur with enhanced precision, consistency and automation.

[0093] To gauge titration experiments, the user/scientist observes electrical or aliquot capacities required to reach equivalence and thus allows the process to generate hydrodynamic models, as previously explained, intrinsic to a certain titration procedure. As such, the process determines analyte concentrations based on derived model parameters. To gauge separation experiments, the present process actuates separation funnel valves in similar manners to all previous embodiments, differing only in the shape of the glass body due to the nature of a separation experiment. Such experiments also operate by means of observer estimates in electrical or aliquot capacities required for fluid separation. Therefore, the generation of a hydrodynamic model enables scientists to interpret outcomes to separation experiments using identified model parameters or a comparison thereof.

[0094] Henceforth, by means of observer based hydrodynamic modelling this system equips conventional glassware with modern control processes, and so enhances the conventional standards in scientific precision and productivity.

[0095] Thus, the present invention is highly benefited in the application and preparation of solution/dilution series in any field of interest, including but not limited to the pharmaceutical industry and chemistry laboratories. As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure.