Patent ID: 6236457
Filing Date: 2001-05-22
Classification: G01J,G01N

Abstract:
Spectroscopic apparatus for sequentially detecting the presence of a plurality of elements in a sample said apparatus comprising, a plurality of lamps, each of which is for generating a beam of light for detecting the presence of a respective at least one predetermined element of a plurality of elements, a beam selector and operating means for the beam selector, and an analysis zone at which a sample to be analyzed is presentable, wherein each of the plurality of lamps occupies a fixed position relative to the analysis zone said lamps being radially arranged relative to an axis such that they lie in a circle or circular arc having a centre on the axis. and wherein the beam selector is operable by the operating means to direct a beam of light from any one of the plurality of lamps to the analysis zone. said beam selector being movable about said axis and positionable into any one of a plurality of positions, wherein at each position the beam selector receives a beam of light from a respective one of the lamps and direct that beam to the analysis zone. wherein the lamps are arranged to direct their beams axially parallel to said axis. and the beam selector directs the axial beam it receives from each lamp along said axis, and further comprising a monochromator for separating the analysis beam of light into different wave lengths, and controllable drive means for driving the monochromator to a perdetermined setting which corresponds to a peak setting for each wavelength of interest.