Patent ID: 8196479
Filing Date: 2012-06-12
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A sampling device for collecting a plurality of separate samples of trace elements from an ambient atmosphere wherein one sample of trace elements is collected per sampling cycle, said sampling device comprising: a carrying case; an inlet probe for drawing a sample flow of trace elements from an ambient atmosphere to the sampling device during a particular sampling cycle; a plurality of removably attachable sample tubes, each sample tube having opposite end portions; an inlet manifold having a plurality of inlet valves associated therewith, each inlet valve being associated with a corresponding sample tube; an outlet manifold having a plurality of outlet valves associated therewith, each outlet valve being associated with a corresponding sample tube; said plurality of sample tubes being operatively connected to said inlet and outlet manifolds and to said corresponding inlet and outlet valves; an electronic control system operable for controlling the operation of said inlet and outlet valves for selectively directing a sample flow of trace elements from said inlet probe to one of a selected sample tube during a particular sampling cycle; a pump for sequentially drawing a sample flow of trace elements into one of said sample tubes at a time as directed by said electronic control system; a removably attachable controller unit operatively connected to said electronic control system, said controller unit being removably attachable to a port located on the exterior of said carrying case for allowing a user to selectively choose any one of a plurality of different sampling protocols; and a battery for supplying power to said sampling device.