Enclosed benchtop Raman spectrometry device

An enclosed benchtop analytical device, as well as systems, processes, and techniques related thereto are disclosed. A benchtop analytical device can include an enclosure enclosing a probe and a sample. A compliance component can determine satisfaction of one or more compliance rules, such as a compliance rule relating to an enclosure being in an operable configuration based on a lid of the enclosure being closed. If the compliance rule(s) is determined to be satisfied, the compliance component may enable the release of optical energy for interrogation of the sample via the probe. In some embodiments, the enclosure can enclose a sample plate that can be used to conveniently and accurately retain a sample in a suitable position within the enclosure.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosed subject matter relates to enclosed benchtop analytical equipment, e.g., benchtop chemical analysis equipment having an enclosure. In some embodiments, the disclosed subject matter relates to optical analysis equipment, e.g., a Raman spectrometry device.

BACKGROUND

Conventional Raman spectrometers were often large industrial sized instruments. Developments in the fields of imaging and laser technologies have allowed Raman spectrometers to dramatically shrink in size, allowing for benchtop and even hand-held portable analytical equipment that can provide highly detailed analytical information to a user in the field. Despite these advances, the Raman spectrometer-to-sample interface of a conventional benchtop system is exposed to the external environment. As such, in an effort to accommodate safe and effective use of the Raman instrument, these conventional instruments are often used in special rooms to reduce ambient light, or they are placed in fume hoods to remove noxious vapors and fumes emanating from the sample. Often, an operator of a conventional Raman instrument uses laser-safe eye protection to shield his/her eyes from harmful light that may emanate from the spectrometer-to-sample interface. In some conventional systems, primitive enclosures in the form of a rudimentary lid or box can be used to block light transmission, which may help protect an operator's eyes and/or block ambient light.

However, these primitive solutions typically introduce challenges, such as, challenges in positioning a sample for analysis in a convenient manner, difficulty in automating sequential sampling, a lack of environmental control, and the like. For instance, once an operator of a conventional system blocks the spectrometer-to-sample interface with a primitive enclosure, there is typically no way of confirming the location of the sample has not changed. Furthermore, there is generally no way of sampling noxious samples short of placing the entire Raman instrument into a fume hood, and there is generally no way of regulating the environment of the sample without subjecting the entire Raman instrument to similar conditions by regulating the environment of the room in which the Raman instrument is located. The disclosure made herein is presented with respect to these and other considerations.

SUMMARY

Raman spectrometry typically experiences a great deal of loss in optical power between the interrogating optical energy and the returned optical energy. As such, optical energy sources, e.g., lasers, etc., are often quite powerful to allow for use of affordable detectors. While specialty detectors could allow for use of lower energy interrogation lasers, the cost of the detectors and special operating conditions causes this option to be less viable in a commercial setting. It will be appreciated that powerful lasers can be a danger to human tissue, particularly the human eye.

To this end, the subject disclosure relates to an enclosed benchtop analytical device, and methods of using the enclosed benchtop analytical device. The benchtop analytical device may include a probe that is configured to perform optical spectroscopy of a sample. Accordingly, an operator can place a sample within an enclosure of the benchtop analytical device at a position where it can be interrogated by the probe. A sample presentation component within the enclosure may be used for this purpose. With the sample in position, the operator may shut the lid of the enclosure, thereby enclosing the sample and the probe within the enclosure. A compliance component of the benchtop analytical device may confirm that the lid of the enclosure is completely shut before allowing the optical spectroscopy to commence. For example, the compliance component may enable performance of the optical spectroscopy via the probe in response to determining that a rule(s) is satisfied, such as a rule that is satisfied when the enclosure being in an operable configuration (e.g., the lid is closed). Thus, the compliance component controls (e.g., enables or disables) the release of optical energy via the probe such that optical energy is exclusively released from the probe in instances when it is appropriate (e.g., safe) to do so. This can allow for the designation of procedures, tolerances, and safety measures to be automatically monitored before allowing the analysis to proceed using the benchtop analytical device. Accordingly, operator safety is improved because the enclosure effectively shields the operator's eyes (and any other user's eyes) from any emanating optical energy, and the probe is prevented from releasing optical energy while the enclosure is open, thereby protecting nearby users and/or observers in the vicinity of the benchtop analytical device. This makes it efficient and convenient to perform optical spectroscopy of a sample in any environment where the benchtop analytical device is located.

In some embodiments, the sample presentation component within the enclosure of the benchtop analytical device may include a sample plate to receive and support the sample within the enclosure. This sample plate may be removable, and when placed in the enclosure, the sample plate may rest within a retaining area that is defined in a body of the enclosure. The sample plate may include features and/or mechanisms to ensure accurate and convenient positioning of the sample so that efficiency of performing optical spectroscopy of a sample within the enclosure is improved, and to ensure that the position of the sample does not change after closing the lid of the enclosure. For example, the sample plate may have a sloped surface that slopes from a highest point at a periphery of the sample plate to a lowest point at a location adjacent to the probe when the sample plate is disposed in the plate retaining area. This allows for leveraging the force of gravity to retain the sample at a suitable position on the sample plate (e.g., in a line of sight of, and/or in contact with a tip of, the probe) after the lid of the enclosure is closed. Additionally, or alternatively, the sample plate may have a flat surface with a recessed area defined in the flat surface of the sample plate, wherein a portion of the recessed area is positioned at a location adjacent to the probe when the sample plate is disposed in the plate retaining area. This recessed area helps retain the sample at a suitable position on the sample plate (e.g., in a line of sight of, and/or in contact with a tip of, the probe) after the lid of the enclosure is closed. In yet other embodiments, the sample plate may be associated with an adjustment mechanism to adjust the position of the sample relative to the probe, which allows for convenient positioning of the sample, and for retaining the sample at a suitable position after the lid of the enclosure is closed.

A benchtop analytical device (e.g., a benchtop Raman spectrometer) with an enclosure according to one or more of the disclosed embodiments can serve to improve the operation and implementation of Raman spectrometers by allowing for safer operation, improved automation, a wider degree of allowed samples, self-diagnosis of consumable elements, etc. Some disclosed embodiments allow the operator to exchange different sample presentation components (e.g., sample plates) within the enclosure to allow for interrogation of samples that are packaged in different types of packaging (e.g., differently-shaped packaging). For example, packaged medicine (pharmaceuticals) can be placed on an appropriate sample plate, which can then be placed in a plate retaining area defined in a body of the enclosure to allow for optical interrogation of pharmaceutical samples. In this scenario, an operator may simply select a verify button to commence optical spectroscopy of the sample within the enclosure, and one or more results of the analysis may be presented to the operator (e.g., on a display screen). The results presented to the operator may indicate whether the type of sample (such as a type of medication) is verified via optical spectroscopy (e.g., by determining that an obtained Raman spectra matches a known Raman spectra of the type of sample), and/or whether the concentration of the sample is verified via optical spectroscopy. This is particularly useful in the pharmaceutical industry, for example, where the wrong types of medications and/or the wrong concentrations of medications can mysteriously find their way into standard pharmaceutical packaging that is distributed and eventually used to treat patients in various settings, such as hospitals.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It will be noted that the disclosed embodiments can be presented separately for clarity and brevity but that combinations of the disclosed embodiments are also considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure, for example, a first embodiment can disclose an enclosure with a viewport and a second embodiment can disclose an enclosure with an environmental control unit, and a third embodiment can disclose an enclosure with an imaging system, accordingly, an embodiment with both a viewport and an environmental control is considered, an embodiment with both a viewport and an imaging system is considered, an embodiment with an imaging system and an environmental control is considered, and an embodiment with a viewport, an environmental control, and an imaging system is considered, etc. improve the efficiency of Raman spectral analysis, lower training costs, improve safety, allow for analysis of a wider range of samples, etc.

FIG. 1illustrates a perspective view of an example benchtop analytical device100including an enclosure110that can be in either an opened or a closed state. The enclosure110of the benchtop analytical device100may (in the closed state) enclose a probe102, in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. The benchtop analytical device100disclosed herein may facilitate non-contact-type optical interrogation of a sample from a distance, e.g., a focal point of the incident beam may be a determined distance from a most distal portion (e.g., the tip) of the probe102. With non-contact-type optical interrogation, the sample itself (or a package containing the sample) may nevertheless contact the tip of the probe102, but the sample (or its package) does not have to contact the tip of the probe102in non-contact-type optical interrogation. Various examples described herein disclose the “sample” being “in contact with” the probe102. It is to be appreciated that the “sample” being “in contact with” the probe102can mean that the sample itself is in contact with the probe102, or, in the alternative, that a package (or container) containing the sample is in contact with the probe102. In the latter case, the package containing the sample may be transparent to allow for optical interrogation of the sample within the package. Non-contact-type optical interrogation may be used to analyze samples while they remain packaged within their transparent packages because the focal point of the incident beam may be located inside the package (i.e., a determined distance from the tip of the probe102) when the sample package is positioned near (i.e., within a threshold distance of), or placed in contact with, the tip of the probe102.

In some embodiments, the probe102may facilitate contact-type optical interrogation of a sample. Contact-type optical interrogation is when a most distal portion (e.g., the tip) of the probe102is in contact with the sample during optical interrogation. An example probe102that facilitates contact-type optical interrogation of a sample is a probe102having a spherical lens for directing optical energy at a sample interface that coincides with a point where the sample makes contact with the most distal portion (e.g., the tip) of the probe102.

As shown inFIG. 1, the enclosure110may include a lid114and a body116. The lid114may be movable between an opened position and a closed position relative to the body116of the enclosure110. The lid114is shown in the open position on the left side ofFIG. 1, and in the closed position on the right side ofFIG. 1. A contact sensor disposed in or on the enclosure110may determine when the lid114of the enclosure110is in the closed position (and also when the lid114is not in the closed position), and the contact sensor may provide an indication to a compliance component of the benchtop analytical device100to indicate when the enclosure110is in compliance with a compliance rule relating to the enclosure being in an operable configuration (e.g., the enclosure110may be in an operable configuration when the lid114of the enclosure110is in the closed position). Before optical energy is released or emitted via the probe102to perform optical spectroscopy of a sample in the enclosure110, the compliance component may determine whether the compliance rule(s) is satisfied, and if so, enable the release of the optical energy via the probe102. The compliance rule relating to an operable configuration of the enclosure110may be one of a group of compliance rules that are to be concurrently satisfied before proceeding with the optical spectroscopy of the sample, as described herein.

In an aspect, the lid114may include a viewport150. In an aspect, the viewport150can be optically transparent at select wavelengths to allow direct viewing of an analysis with operator safety and reduction of artifacts in the captured spectrum. As an example, the viewport150can include a laser safe window to attenuate laser light that can escape the sample interface, which can protect an operator. As another example, the viewport150can include a shutter, sliding plate, etc., that can physically block light transmission. In this example, the operator can directly view the sample, for example to position it, then can provide an input, e.g., press a start (or verify) button, etc., that can trigger a shutter to close, the analysis to proceed, and then the shutter to open. The shuttering process can be kept brief, being perhaps just slightly longer than the time needed to interrogate the sample optically. In an aspect, the shutter can ‘blink’ to protect the operator from laser light and to shield the interface from ambient light. Whereas a compliance component can enable the release of the laser energy via the probe102when the shutter is closed, the action of triggering the shutter can in effect also cause the laser to fire on the sample. It will be noted that heuristic timing can be incorporated into the example to provide for a slight delay after the triggering of the shutter before lasing the sample begins, and correspondingly, a slight delay between the end of lasing and the reopening of the shutter. The operator can directly view the sample/probe interface via the viewport150while the lid114of the enclosure110is closed. Other embodiments described herein use additional imaging components to extend the human senses in a similar manner, allowing analysis of fragile or dangerous samples, such as in an automated manner with a variety of instrumental modes, while monitoring a condition of the instrument and providing a safer and more comfortable bench top analysis environment.

The body116of the enclosure110may include various components and electronics of the system, such as components of a Raman spectrometer to process/analyze the results of Raman analysis of a sample within the enclosure110. The enclosure110may be part of the benchtop analytical device100configured to allow an operator to perform analyses of samples. For instance, the benchtop analytical device100may further include, and the enclosure110may be communicatively coupled (wired or wirelessly) to, a computer having a display for presentation of user interface controls and analysis results (e.g., Raman spectra, sample determinations, etc.). In some embodiments, such a computer can be integrated or embedded in the body116of the enclosure110, and the enclosure110may include an embedded display, such as the display111shown inFIG. 1.

The enclosure110may include various input and/or output components, such as a power button170that an operator can actuate (e.g., press) to power on the electronics of the enclosure110(and electronics of the benchtop analytical device100in general). The enclosure110may further include one or more light emitting diode (LED) indicators180to indicate various things, such as to indicate that power is on, to indicate that sample analysis (e.g., optical spectroscopy) is in progress, to indicate that the enclosure110is in an operable configuration (e.g., that the lid114is in the closed position), etc.

The probe102may be mounted on the body116and oriented in a downward facing direction. That is, the probe102may point in the negative z-direction, as shown inFIG. 1, by including optical elements (e.g., a lens(es), etc.) that direct optical energy—in the form of laser light—from an excitation source in the negative z-direction (or downward direction), and that collect scattered light reflected from a sample in the positive z-direction.

In some embodiments, the probe102can include an optical element to direct optical energy at a sample. As an example, the probe102can be a BallProbe® (MarqMetrix Inc., Seattle, Wash.) for Raman immersion testing, contact Raman testing, etc. The probe102can include other technologies, e.g., an infrared (IR) probe, a resistance probe, a conductivity probe, a pH probe, a biomarker probe, etc., without departing from the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter as will be appreciated by one of skill in the relevant arts.

Moreover, while this disclosure is generally presented in terms of Raman spectroscopy for clarity and brevity, it is asserted that similar advantages can be provided for other benchtop instruments, including those using other optical analysis techniques such as ultraviolet/visible (UV-Vis), near infrared (NIR), mid-infrared (FTIR), fluorescence, etc., and that all such other uses are within the scope of the present disclosure despite not being explicitly recited. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the disclosed subject matter can perform Raman spectroscopy serially or in parallel with other optical analysis techniques such as UV-Vis, NIR, FTIR, fluorescence, etc., e.g., a Raman spectrum can be captured along with another optical analysis for the same sample at substantially the same time, such that an operator does not need to move the sample from a Raman instrument to a NIR instrument, to a FTIR instrument, etc. In some embodiments, the disclosed subject matter can support Raman performed in series or in parallel for multiple excitation energies, e.g., 532 nm, 785 nm, 1064 nm, etc. Further still, some embodiments can combine imaging with Raman spectra, e.g., a picture of the sample and a Raman spectrum mapped to the picture.

The enclosure110may further include a sample plate120(an embodiment of a sample presentation component, as disclosed herein). The probe102and/or sample plate120may move relative to the other, e.g., in the x-, y-, and z-planes, rotationally, etc. This can allow a sample to be positioned relative to the probe102to enable optical analysis, e.g., Raman spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, etc., at determined locations of the sample.

In an aspect, sample plate120can move relative to the probe102, e.g., in the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, rotationally, etc., so as to be able to present different portions of a sample, different samples, etc., for analysis via probe102. In an example, a position of sample plate120and probe102can be determined. The positon can be employed to determine that the sample is appropriately oriented for optical interrogation. In some example embodiments, sample plate120can include a multi-well plate. This can enable analysis of samples in one or more wells of the multi-well plate.

In some embodiments, the disclosed subject matter contemplates that the position of the optical interrogation of a sample can be altered. In an aspect, this can be achieved by moving the probe102relative to the sample, moving the sample relative to the probe102, or both moving the sample and the probe102relative to each other. In this disclosure, except where explicitly disclosed as being exclusive of other relative movement, descriptions of moving the sample can be accomplished by these or other techniques, e.g., changing the focal position of the interrogating optical energy with or without movement of the probe102or the sample, etc. In effect, the present disclosure is, in part, directed to analysis of different portions of a sample within the enclosed area of the disclosed device or system. As an example, where a sample is liquid and the probe102is dipped in to the liquid, e.g., in-situ analysis, different portions of the sample can be analyzed at least by moving the probe102tip in the sample, moving the sample around the probe102, moving both the probe102and the sample, changing a focal length of the interrogating laser to sample a different area of the sample with/without moving the sample and/or probe102, flowing the sample past the probe1002, etc.

In some embodiments, movement of sample plate120(in at least one direction) can be enabled by an adjustment mechanism129(such as a dial coupled to a translation mechanism). The adjustment mechanism129can be used (e.g., manipulated, rotated, etc.) by an operator while the lid114is in the opened position to cause movement (e.g., translational movement, such as along the z-axis) of the sample plate120. This allows for convenient and accurate positioning of the sample relative to the probe102, and it ensures that the position of the sample does not change after closure of the lid114. A compliance component of the benchtop analytical device100can determine whether the enclosure110is closed and/or whether the probe102is in contact with a sample placed on the sample plate102using the various techniques described herein. In an aspect, probe102can move relative to sample plate120, e.g., in the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, rotationally, etc., so as to be able to access different portions of a sample, different samples, etc., for analysis. The enclosure110may further include a spill tray131disposed underneath the sample plate120to catch or collect any of the sample that spills over the edges of the sample plate120. This spill tray131may be removable so as to discard any contents (e.g., spilled sample) collected therein.

FIG. 2illustrates side and front views of the example enclosure110of the benchtop analytical device100introduced inFIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. The side view (shown on the left side ofFIG. 2) depicts the enclosure110in an opened state where the lid114is fully opened to reveal the interior of the enclosure110. The front view (shown on the right side ofFIG. 2) also depicts the enclosure110in the opened state where the lid114is fully opened to reveal the interior of the enclosure110.

As shown inFIG. 2, a rail217on the body116of the enclosure110may allow the sample plate120to be mounted thereon, and may allow the sample plate120to move translationally in the positive or negative z-direction (i.e., up or down). The adjustment mechanism129may be used by an operator while the enclosure110is opened for making such large-scale position adjustments so as to position the sample plate120so that the probe102is at least close to (e.g., within a few millimeters of), or in contact with, the sample supported by the sample plate120. After closing the enclosure110, the operator may be able to make fine-tuned, or small-scale, adjustments, if necessary, to either or both of the sample plate120and/or the probe102. The operator may utilize a remote or external control mechanism that controls the movement of the sample plate120and/or the probe102in small increments. In an example, the operator can see through the viewport150while he/she uses external adjustment controls, an imaging component, and/or an illumination component, etc., to adjust the position relative position of the sample plate120and the probe102.FIG. 2shows an example enclosure110having a probe102configured to perform contact-type optical interrogation of a sample by a most distal portion of the probe102being in contact with the sample at the sample interface during optical interrogation. The benchtop analytical device100, including the enclosure110, can be moved by an operator to any suitable location and utilized to perform optical spectroscopy of samples, providing convenient portability to an operator of the benchtop analytical device100.

FIG. 3illustrates a perspective view of an example benchtop analytical device300according to another embodiment. The benchtop analytical device300may include an enclosure310that can be in either an open or a closed state. The enclosure310may enclose a sample and a probe302, in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. The enclosure310may represent at least part of the benchtop analytical device300(e.g., an analytical instrument for performing Raman spectroscopy). The enclosure310may include a lid314and a body316. The lid314may be movable, relative to the body316, between an opened position and a closed position. The lid314is shown in the open position on the left side ofFIG. 3, and in the closed position on the right side ofFIG. 3. A two-part latch mechanism may include a first latch component318(1) on the lid314, and a second latch component318(2) on the body316, and these latch components318matingly engage when the lid314is moved into the closed position. A contact sensor disposed in the two-part latch mechanism318, or elsewhere on the enclosure310, may determine when the enclosure310is closed, and the contact sensor may provide an indication to a compliance component of the benchtop analytical device300to indicate when the enclosure310is in compliance with a compliance rule that the enclosure310is to be in an operable configuration before optical energy is released via the probe302to perform optical spectroscopy on a sample. The compliance rule that the enclosure310is in an operable configuration before proceeding with an analysis of a sample may be one of a group of compliance rules that are to be concurrently satisfied before proceeding with performance of the optical spectroscopy, as described herein.

The body316of the enclosure310may include various components and electronics of the system, such as components of a Raman spectrometer to process/analyze the results of Raman analysis of a sample within the enclosure310. The enclosure310may be part of the benchtop analytical device300configured to allow an operator to perform analyses of samples. For instance, the enclosure310may be communicatively coupled (wired or wirelessly) to a computer having a display for presentation of user interface controls and analysis results (e.g., Raman spectra, sample determinations, etc.). In some embodiments, such a computer can be integrated or embedded in the body316of the enclosure310, and the enclosure310may include an embedded display.

The enclosure310may include various input and/or output components, such as a power button370that an operator can actuate (e.g., press) to power on the electronics of the enclosure310(and/or electronics of the benchtop analytical device300in general). The enclosure310may also include one or more LED indicators380to indicate various things, such as to indicate that power is on, to indicate that sample analysis is in progress, to indicate that the enclosure310is in an operable configuration, etc.

The probe302may be mounted on the body316and oriented in an upward facing direction. That is, the probe302may point in the positive z-direction, as shown inFIG. 3, by including optical elements (e.g., a lens(es), etc.) that direct laser light from an excitation source in the positive z-direction (or upward direction), and that collect scattered light reflected from a sample in the negative z-direction. The probe may include a non-spherical lens (e.g., a lens having a flat surface at a distalmost point of the lens) for enabling non-contact-type optical interrogation of a sample (e.g., by creating a focal point of an incident beam that is a determined distance from a tip of the probe302).

A plate retaining area328may be defined in the body316of the enclosure310and may surround the probe302. The plate retaining area328may have a sloped surface that slopes downward (i.e., in the negative z-direction) from a highest point at a periphery of the body316to a lowest point adjacent to the probe302. This sloped contour of the plate retaining area328can allow for sample plates of various designs/shapes, etc. to be placed in the plate retaining area, and can also allow for providing a degree of separation (if separation is desired) between the tip of the probe302and a sample when a sample plate is placed in the plate retaining area328.

FIG. 4illustrates a perspective view of an example enclosure410, and an example sample plate420(1) being placed in the enclosure410, in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. The enclosure410may have a plate retaining area428, which may be the same as, or similar to, the plate retaining area328described with reference toFIG. 3. The plate retaining area428may be configured (e.g., shaped) to receive various sample plates420(one at a time), such as the first sample plate420(1), the second sample plate420(2), and possibly additional sample plates420, such as any number of “N” sample plates420(1)-(N) that may be exchanged for one another and placed within the enclosure410. Thus, a sample plate420may be disposed on the body416of the enclosure410and within the plate retaining area428in order to support a sample thereon for interrogation of the sample via the probe402. The individual sample plate420may be rectangular in shape and configured to support a sample (e.g., a liquid sample in a package). The individual sample plate420may be shaped similarly to the shape of the plate retaining area428to fit securely on the body and within the plate retaining area428. AlthoughFIG. 4shows an example of multiple rectangular-shaped sample plates420that are to be placed in a rectangular-shaped plate retaining area428of the enclosure410, it is to be appreciated that any suitable shape besides rectangular can be utilized for the sample plate(s)420and the plate retaining area428.

Furthermore, an aperture423(1) may be defined in the sample plate420(1). The aperture423(1) may be defined in a location on the sample plate420(1) that is aligned (in the vertical, z-direction) with the probe402when the sample plate420(1) is placed in the enclosure410. An aperture423(2) may be defined in the sample plate420(2) in a similar manner. When a sample plate, such as the sample plate420(1), is placed in the enclosure410, the probe402is inserted (or disposed) within the aperture423(1) of the sample plate420(1). Furthermore, when the sample plate420(1) is placed in the enclosure410, a sample can be positioned over the aperture423(1) of the sample plate420(1), and on the topside of the sample plate420(1). In this manner, the probe402(being vertically oriented and pointing in an upward (i.e., positive z) direction) may interrogate the sample from underneath the sample when the sample plate420(1) is disposed on the body416of the enclosure410within the plate retaining area428. In the example configuration shown inFIG. 4, an operator can conveniently place a sample (e.g., a pharmaceutical contained in a package) on the sample plate420(1) such that the sample is positioned over the aperture423(1), and the sample is held in place against the sample plate420(1) by the force of gravity. The operator may then close the lid414of the enclosure410and the analysis may proceed (e.g., after a compliance component determines that the lid414is in the closed position) by directing laser light via the probe402at the sample while the enclosure410is closed, and by collecting scattered light via the probe402.

Turning briefly toFIG. 5, a cross-sectional view, taken along section line A-A, of an example sample plate520is shown with a probe502disposed through the aperture523of the sample plate520, such as when the sample plate520is implemented in a benchtop analytical device, and when a sample590is placed on the sample plate520. As shown inFIG. 5, the probe502may direct laser light in the positive z-direction at a focal point595that is a determined distance from a most distal end of the probe502. The example ofFIG. 5shows a liquid sample590contained in a transparent sample package598. This may represent a packaged pharmaceutical that includes a liquid sample590within a transparent plastic package598. This is also an example where the sample590is considered to be in contact with the probe502by virtue of the sample package598being in contact with the probe502. Thus, the “sample590being in contact with the probe502,” as used herein, can be interpreted as the configuration shown inFIG. 5. The focal point595of the excitation beam of laser light540may be at a point within the sample package598so that the sample590within the package is interrogated (rather than interrogating the sample package598itself). The sloped contour of the surface of the sample plate520helps to ensure that the focal point595will be at a point within the sample590instead of a point within an air pocket within the sample package598, for example. That is, the upward slope causes any air pockets/bubbles to move to the side or the edge of the sample package598, thereby maximizing the depth/height of sample590(e.g., liquid sample590) over the location of the aperture523(and hence over the probe502). The transparent nature of the sample package598allows the laser light540to pass through the sample package598and to excite the molecules of the sample590within the sample package598at the focal point595, rather than focusing the excitation beam on the package material itself. Although sample plates520having an aperture523are depicted in the Figures, it is to be appreciated that a sample plate without an aperture can be utilized, such as by being transparent to allow for optical interrogation through the sample plate. In this case, the probe502would be disposed on an underside of the sample plate, rather than through the sample plate where the tip of the probe502can extend above a top surface of the sample plate520, as depicted inFIG. 5.

FIG. 5also illustrates how the sample plate520can have a sloped (top) surface that slopes from a highest point521at a periphery of the sample plate520to a lowest point527at a location adjacent to the aperture523(and hence at a location adjacent to the probe502when the sample plate520is disposed on the body416of the enclosure410within the plate retaining area428). Furthermore, as mentioned above, a tip of the probe502may extend above the lowest point527of the sloped surface of the sample plate520when the sample plate520is disposed on the body416of the enclosure410within the plate retaining area428. As such, the sample590(or, more specifically, the package598containing the sample590) may contact the tip of the probe520when the sample590is placed on the topside of the sample plate520over the aperture523. In other configurations, the tip of the probe502may not extend above the lowest point527of the sloped surface of the sample plate520. For example, the tip of the probe502may terminate at a level that is flush with the lowest point527of the sloped surface of the sample plate520, or below the lowest point527of the sloped surface of the sample plate520. In these configurations, the tip of the probe502may not contact a sample590(or, more specifically, the package598containing the sample590) when the sample590is placed on the sample plate520, and when the sample plate520is placed in the plate retaining area428of the enclosure410.

With reference again toFIG. 4, in an example, multiple exchangeable sample plates420(1)-(N) are depicted. As shown, the second sample plate420(2) includes a flat surface with a recessed area425defined in the flat surface. The recessed area425defined on the flat surface of the sample plate420(2) may be shaped in such a way so as to receive a particular type of sample (e.g., a sample contained in a package having a particular shape). For instance, samples may be packaged in differently-shaped containers. In an illustrative example, a liquid pharmaceutical can be packaged in an intravenous (IV) bag, a syringe, or any other suitable type of container, package, or device. Accordingly, the first sample plate420(1) may be configured to accommodate an IV bag, while the second sample plate420(2) may include a recessed area425shaped to accommodate a syringe. Although examples of samples plates420are shown as having either a sloped surface (e.g., sample plate420(1)) or a recessed area425defined in a flat surface of the sample plate420(e.g., sample plate420(2)), the sample plate420, in at least some aspects, may have a flat surface without a recessed area, or a surface that is not sloped (i.e., a substantially flat surface). In these aspects, the sample plate420with a substantially flat surface may still include an aperture423through which the probe402can analyze a sample.

The second sample plate420(2) is also shown as including multiple positioning blocks427(1) and427(2) that the operator can manipulate to adjust the position of a syringe that includes a sample therein so that the sample in the syringe can be positioned over the aperture423(2). The positioning blocks427(1) and427(2) may be slidingly coupled to, or engaged with, the sample plate420(2), such as by using a magnetic coupling mechanism, a dovetailed slot, or the like. In this manner, the first sample plate420(1) can be placed in the enclosure410to perform a first analysis by interrogating a liquid sample packaged in an IV bag. Subsequently, the operator can remove the first sample plate420(1) from the enclosure410and replace it with the second sample plate420(2) to interrogate a liquid sample packaged in a syringe. Moreover, a compliance component of the benchtop analytical device can, in some embodiments, check for the presence of a sample plate420to determine if the (correct) sample plate420is placed within the enclosure410before allowing the analysis to proceed. The compliance component may additionally, or alternatively, check for the presence of a sample to determine if the (correct) sample is placed within the enclosure410before allowing the analysis to proceed. In an illustrative example, the operator may indicate, via user input to a user interface, that he/she would like to analyze a sample packaged in an IV bag. The first sample plate420(1) that is configured to accommodate samples packaged in IV bags, may be associated with a machine-readable code (e.g., a code printed on the sample plate420(1)). Upon placing the correct sample plate420(1) within the enclosure410, a code reader of the enclosure410may read the machine-readable code (e.g., a bar code, a quick response (QR) code, etc.) and determine whether the code matches a code corresponding to IV bag packaging. This information may be used by the compliance component to determine whether the sample plate420(1) is in compliance with a compliance rule by being the correct sample presentation component420. In other embodiments, a sensor (e.g., an optical detector, etc.) may be configured to detect the presence of a sample plate420within the enclosure410for purposes of satisfying a compliance rule that a sample plate420(e.g., any sample plate) is to be placed in the enclosure410before the analysis proceeds. A weight or pressure sensor may be used to determine if and when a sample plate420(1) and/or a sample has been placed in the enclosure410for purposes of satisfying one or more of the compliance rules described herein. In some embodiments, the sample plates420are disposable or single-use sample plates420, such as by being made of a relatively cheap plastic or compostable material that is easy and cost effective to manufacture (e.g., via injection molding) at scale. Disposable sample plates420may be used in environments where sterility and cleanliness is of the utmost importance, such as in situations where chemotherapy medicine is being analyzed.

The benchtop analytical device300may be optimized to analyze (by performing optical spectroscopy) a sample through packaging. Thus, samples that are typically packaged in containers/packaging can be placed in the enclosure310/410without removing the sample590from its sample package598. This is convenient for an operator using the benchtop analytical device300/400in certain settings, such as to analyze medications or pharmaceuticals in transparent packaging, to analyze food or drink that is packaged in transparent packaging, etc. The enclosure310/410is also easy for an operator to move from one location to another, making it convenient to perform optical spectroscopy on samples at any suitable location (e.g., in a hospital, a pharmacy, a restaurant, a manufacturing plant, etc.).

FIG. 6is an illustration of a system600, which facilitates enclosing a sample to probe interface in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. System600can include enclosure610. Enclosure610can enclose an interface between a sample and a probe602. In some embodiments, enclosure610can enclose probe602and sample presentation component620. Probe602and sample presentation component620can be communicatively coupled to compliance component612. In some embodiments, enclosure610can be a configured to rest on a surface, such as a table, bench, etc., as part of a benchtop analytical device, and may support probe602and sample presentation component620, to allow an operator to open a portion of enclosure610to place a sample on sample presentation component620such that probe602can be used to analyze a sample within enclosure610, e.g., enclosure610can be, or be part of, an enclosed benchtop Raman spectrometer, etc.

In some embodiments, probe602can include an interface for an analytical instrument to interrogate a sample, e.g., in a Raman spectrometer instrument, probe602can direct optical energy at a sample. In some embodiments, probe602can include an optical element, e.g., a lens, etc. that directs optical energy at a sample. In an example, the optical element of the probe602is configured to direct optical energy at a sample to facilitate non-contact-type optical interrogation of the sample from a distance, e.g., a focal point of the incident beam is a determined distance from the tip of the probe602. For example, an aperture may be defined in a sample plate (which is an embodiment of the sample presentation component620), and the probe602may be disposed within the aperture. A sample can be positioned on a topside of the sample plate over the location of the aperture. In this manner, the probe602is configured to direct optical energy at the sample from underneath the sample. In some configurations, even though the optical spectroscopy may not require the probe to contact the sample, the probe602may nevertheless be in contact with the sample (which, as mentioned herein, includes contact with the sample's package when the sample is contained in a transparent package) during optical spectroscopy of the sample. In an example configuration, the sample can be placed on the sample plate and held in place against the sample plate by the force of gravity and/or by sloped surface of, or a recessed area425defined in, the surface of the sample plate.

In some embodiments, the probe602may facilitate contact-type optical interrogation of a sample by a most distal portion of the probe602being in contact with the sample during optical interrogation. An example probe602that facilitates contact-type optical interrogation of a sample is a probe having a spherical lens. In an example, the spherical optical element (or lens) creates a focal point of the incident optical beam that is located at an interface between the spherical optical element and the sample where the sample contacts the most distal point of the probe602. The spherical optical element can be a BallProbe® (MarqMetrix Inc., Seattle, Wash.). A BallProbe® can enable Raman spectrometry. In an aspect, a BallProbe® can allow for in-situ Raman spectrometry via probe602. An example benchtop analytical device including a BallProbe® can perform Raman spectrometry by dipping or inserting the BallProbe® into a sample, against a sample, etc., and initiating an analytical interrogation of said sample.

In general, the probe602can facilitate analytical interrogation of the sample to excite atomic bonds of molecules in the sample such that a Raman spectrum can be captured, e.g., a response from sample interrogation. The Raman spectrum can then be analyzed. The analysis of the Raman spectrum can be based on reference Raman spectra. Of note, the terms ‘spectrometry’ and ‘spectroscopy’ are frequently used interchangeably in the art, though they can have slightly different connotations. The term ‘spectrometry’ is used in this disclosure in relation to the capture, analysis, and generation of results based on spectral information elicited via interrogation of a sample, as ‘spectrometry’ is believed to be the more correct term in this regard. However, the term ‘spectrometry’ is to be treated as inclusive of the common connotation of the term ‘spectroscopy’ as used by those of skill in the related art, unless otherwise explicitly indicated as having a narrower or different meaning in this disclosure.

In an aspect, embodiments of probe602can be constructed of nearly any material suitable to an expected sample environment. A probe can include a suitable polymer, e.g., polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), silicone, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), etc. A probe can include other materials, such as, but not limited to, stainless steel, gold, or other metal; borosilicate or other glass; starches or other carbohydrates, etc.; or nearly any other material suitable to a particular sample environment. Moreover, materials can be machined, sintered, cast, injection molded, 3D-printed, etc., for example to form a body, optical element seat, shroud, etc., of a probe. Moreover, in some embodiments, an optical element can be ‘spherical,’ and can be separately manufactured and added to the body, either as part of a molding process, bonded with an adhesive, attached with a friction or press fit, mechanically captured, etc. In other embodiments, the ‘spherical’ optical element can be co-formed with the body as part of a molding process, e.g., the spherical optical element can be formed, of the same or a different material, with the removable optical assembly in injection molding; can be formed, of the same or a different material, with the removable optical assembly in 3D printing; etc. Additionally, ‘spherical’ optics can be manufactured from nearly any appropriate material, including the same or different materials as the body of a removable optical assembly. Non-limiting examples of appropriate materials can include a polymer, glass, mineral, etc., depending on the optical properties suited to a given scenario. Of note, the term ‘spherical’ optical element, or similar terms, as used herein, generally means an optical element, e.g., a lens, etc., that has a spherical, or nearly spherical, geometry. Moreover, the term ‘spherical optical element,’ as used herein, also includes any optical element that conducts light via a portion of the optical element that includes a curved surface approximating at least a portion of a sphere, for example, where sphere of optical glass has an shallow equatorial trench ground into it, such as to capture a retaining ring, etc., the resulting optical element, within the context of the instant disclosure, would still be considered a spherical optical element so long as light enters/exits the non-equatorial portions. As another example, an injection molded spherical optical element can include a protrusion, e.g., resembling a lollipop on a stick, and, within the context of the instant disclosure, would still be considered a spherical optical element. As a further example, an optical element including two individual hemispherical portions can also be considered a spherical element within the scope of the instant disclosure. It is to be appreciated that a lensing optical element of the probe602may be of a different shape than spherical, as described herein. For example, with non-contact-type optical interrogation of the sample from a distance, a non-spherical optical element (e.g., lens) may be utilized in the probe602, such as a lens with a substantially flat surface at the distalmost point of the probe tip.

Sample presentation component620can include a sample retention portion that can retain a sample (e.g., the sloped surface and/or the recessed area425of the sample plates420shown inFIG. 4). In an aspect, sample presentation component620can include an adjustment mechanism allowing controlled motion of a sample stage or plate. In a further aspect, sample presentation component620can include a sensing component allowing for detection of interaction with a sample supported by a sample stage or plate. In another aspect, sample presentation component620can include a sample-arranging portion that allows placement of a sample for retention. As examples, sample presentation component620can be a liquid flow cell, a gas flow cell, a sample stage, a sample plate, etc. As other examples, sample presentation component620can be a sample stage or plate with a multi-well plate connector allowing a multi-well plate to be connected to the sample stage. This example sample stage or plate, in some embodiments can be connected to a translation component that can move the sample stage or plate, and thereby the multi-well plate relative to probe602. This can enable sequential analysis of samples in one or more wells of the multi-well plate. In an aspect, a flow cell for either gas or liquid can be manifolded to enable handling of multiple gas/liquid streams, e.g., multiple sample inputs, reagent inputs, cleaning agent inputs, etc. The sample presentation component620may include a sample plate having an aperture defined therein, and a sloped surface or a recessed area around the aperture. A recessed area of the sample plate may be shaped to receive a sample package having a corresponding shape so that a sample can be interrogated through the package.

Enclosure610can provide optical separation between an operator and the interface between the sample and a probe. This can reduce the risk of an operator being exposed to optical energy that can escape from the interface area. Moreover, the enclosure610can reduce ambient light entering the interface, which can thereby reduce errors in analysis resulting from stray light reaching an optical detector of the benchtop instrument.

Compliance component612can be communicatively coupled to one or more of the enclosure610, probe602, and sample presentation component620. Compliance component612can receive a compliance rule related to an aspect of system600. Compliance component612can determine that the compliance rule has been satisfied. In an aspect, compliance component612can determine concurrent compliance with a group of compliance rules related to aspects of system600. As an example, compliance component612can determine that an aspect of probe602, and aspect of sample presentation component620, and an aspect of enclosure610are concurrently compliant. As a more detailed example, probe602can be determined to be compliant based on determining than the attached probe is fit for a designated analysis profile, sample presentation component620can be determined to be compliant based on detecting that contact has been made with a sample on or in the sample presentation component620, and enclosure610can be determined to be compliant based on output from a sensor associated with detecting when the enclosure610is closed, such that the compliance component can determine that, concurrently, the correct probe is on, the enclosure is closed, and the probe602has been put into contact with the sample of the sample presentation component620. As another example, the sample presentation component620may be in the form of an exchangeable sample plate so that an operator can remove the sample plate from the enclosure610and replace it with another sample plate. The compliance component612can, in some embodiments, determine that the enclosure610is closed, and concurrently check for the presence of a sample presentation component620and/or that a sample is placed on or in the sample presentation component620. In some embodiments, the compliance component612may determine whether a correct sample presentation component620is within the enclosure given an operator's input of a particular type of sample. For instance, exchangeable sample plates may have machine-readable codes that are read to determine whether the sample plate matches the package type input by an operator into the system600. The compliance component612may additionally, or alternatively, determine, from a weight sensor, that a sample has been placed on the sample plate before allowing the analysis to proceed.

In some embodiments, compliance component612can enable access to data relating to determining compliance with one or more compliance rules, e.g., an operator can access information showing that the enclosure is not showing as ‘closed,’ a system including a processor can receive information indicating which probe is determined to be attached to probe602, etc.

In another aspect, compliance component612can enable interrogation of the sample to proceed, e.g., release of optical energy to the sample can be in response to compliance component612determining that one or more rules of the group of compliance rules is (concurrently) satisfied. This aspect can reduce opportunities for release of laser energy, for example, where the enclosure is not properly closed, where the wrong probe is attached, where the probe is not in proper position/contact with the sample, etc. Moreover, this aspect can act as a trigger, such that as the compliance rules of the group of compliance rules progress towards contemporaneous compliance, the Raman spectrometer stands ready to interrogate the sample but cannot until the instant compliance component612determines that there is contemporaneous satisfaction of the compliance rules. In a further aspect, where one or more of the rules goes into non-compliance, compliance component612can determine that concurrent compliance is not occurring and can stop enabling release of optical energy, e.g., compliance component612can suspend or terminate the interrogation of a sample where any condition of system600represented by a compliance rule of the group of compliance rules transitions from satisfied to not satisfied. As an example, the emission of optical energy can be stopped where the enclosure is opened, where the probe is not in contact with the sample, etc.

FIG. 7is a depiction of a system700that can facilitate indirect monitoring of a sample to probe interface for an optical analytical instrument including an enclosure in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. System700can include enclosure710. Enclosure710can enclose an interface between a sample and an analytical instrument. In some embodiments, enclosure710can enclose probe702and sample presentation component720. Probe702and sample presentation component720can be communicatively coupled to compliance component712.

In some embodiments, probe702can include an optical element to direct optical energy at a sample. In some embodiments, the optical element that directs optical energy at a sample can include a spherical optical element. A spherical optical element can be a BallProbe® that can enable Raman spectrometry via probe702. An example benchtop analytical device including probe702can perform Raman spectrometry by dipping or inserting a portion of probe702into a sample, against a sample, etc., and initiating an optical interrogation of said sample.

In some embodiments, sample presentation component720can present a sample for interrogation via probe702. In an aspect, sample presentation component720can move relative to probe702, e.g., in the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, rotationally, etc., so as to be able to present different portions of a sample, different samples, etc., for analysis via probe702. A position of sample presentation component720and probe702can be determined, e.g., via compliance component712, via sample presentation component720, via a connected controller/computer, etc. The positon can be employed to determine that the sample is appropriately oriented for optical interrogation. In an aspect, where a BallProbe® is employed, contact Raman spectroscopy can be performed, e.g., the spherical optical element can be placed directly against the sample, or in the sample, to interrogate the sample. In contact Raman, a position between probe702and the sample can be determined based on pressured applied between the probe702and the sample, e.g., as measured at the sample presentation component720, etc., such that the BallProbe® can be brought into contact with the sample to perform the analysis, preferably without damage to the BallProbe® from the contact. In some embodiments, sample presentation component720can include a liquid flow cell, a gas flow cell, a sample stage, etc. In some example embodiments, sample presentation component720can include a sample plate. In some example embodiments, the sample presentation component720can include a multi-well plate, e.g., a 384-, 96-, 48-, 24-, 12-, 6-well plate sample container, etc. This can enable analysis of samples in one or more wells of the multi-well plate.

Enclosure710can provide optical separation between an operator and the interface between a sample and a probe702. This can improve operator safety by blocking or attenuating optical emissions, e.g., scattered or reflected laser light, etc. Moreover, the enclosure can reduce ambient light entering the interface that can cause errors in the Raman analysis. In some embodiments, enclosure710can include optical attenuation features, e.g., paint and materials that absorb ambient light to reduce the effect of stray light reaching the detector during capture of a Raman spectrum.

Enclosure710can further enclose imaging component730and illumination component740. Imaging component730and illumination component740can enable remote viewing of the interior of enclosure710, more particularly a sample and the orientation of the sample and probe702as facilitated by positioning of the sample presentation component720and probe702. In an aspect, imaging component730and illumination component740can illuminate and image the presentation of the sample to probe702in the human visible spectrum. In some embodiments, imaging component730and illumination component740can also illuminate and image the presentation of the sample to probe702in spectrum outside of the normal range of human vision, e.g., UV, IR, etc. Moreover, imaging component730and illumination component740can be communicatively coupled to compliance component712. This can enable compliance component712to determine the state of imaging component730and illumination component740with regard to compliance rules for system700. The imager/illuminator can enable an operator to position a probe702relative to a sample without needing to open the enclosure710. In contrast to typical conventional benchtop Raman instruments, this can enable an operator to interrogate different portions of a sample by placing the sample in the enclosure, closing the enclosure, and then interacting with the sample interface via imaging and remote control of the sample stage or plate and/or Raman probe tip. As an example, where an inhomogeneous ore sample is placed in the enclosure, an analysis at a first location on the ore can provide a first result. The operator can then reposition the sample/probe to a second location via the imager to capture a second result. While this can appear trivial, there can be significant timesaving in enabling remote repositioning of the sample/probe rather than opening the enclosure to reposition a sample directly. Moreover, imaging and illumination can be done in spectral regions beyond human eyesight, e.g., IR, NIR, UV, etc., which can allow an operator to position a sample/probe relative to features that might not be visible to the human eye directly. As an example, a coral sample can include biological materials that fluoresce in UV light, allowing an operator to position the probe/sample via a UV sensitive imager and UV illuminator, then shutting off the UV illuminator to allow for Raman analysis at the selected location on the coral.

Compliance component712can be communicatively coupled to one or more of the enclosure710, probe702, sample presentation component720, imaging component730, illumination component740, etc. Compliance component712can receive a compliance rule related to an aspect of system700. Compliance component712can determine that the compliance rule has been satisfied. In an aspect, compliance component712can determine concurrent compliance with a group of compliance rules related to aspects of system700. As an example, compliance component712can determine that the position of probe702relative to sample presentation component720is concurrently compliant with an illumination mode of illumination component740, and that enclosure710is in an operable configuration. In response to determining that there is concurrent compliance among the set of compliance rules, in an aspect, compliance component712can enable release of optical energy for interrogation of the sample. This aspect can reduce opportunities for accidental release of laser energy, for example, where the enclosure is not properly closed, where the probe is not in proper position/contact with the sample, etc. Moreover, this aspect can act as a trigger, such that the compliance rules of the group define when an interrogation of the sample can begin. In another aspect, the compliance rules can benefit the analysis by determining the presence of conditions that are beneficial to improved operation of the Raman spectrometer, e.g., by determining that the illumination source is off before allowing the laser to fire on the sample, compliance component712removes ambient light in the enclosure that could interfere with the analysis. In a further aspect, compliance component712can disable the release of optical energy in response to determining that a rule has gone into non-compliance, e.g., compliance component712can determine that there is no longer concurrent compliance and, accordingly, can stop enabling release of optical energy.

FIG. 8illustrates a system800that facilitates direct monitoring of a sample to probe interface of an optical, benchtop analytical device including an enclosure in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. System800can include enclosure810. Enclosure810can enclose an interface between a sample and a probe. In some embodiments, enclosure810can enclose probe802, sample presentation component820, imaging component830, and illumination component840. Probe802, sample presentation component820, imaging component830, and illumination component840can be communicatively coupled to compliance component812.

In some embodiments, probe802can include an optical element to direct optical energy at a sample. In some embodiments, the optical element that directs optical energy at a sample can include a spherical optical element. A spherical optical element can be a BallProbe® that can enable Raman spectrometry via probe802. An example benchtop analytical device including probe802can perform Raman spectrometry by dipping or inserting a portion of probe802into a sample, against a sample, etc., and initiating an optical interrogation of said sample. In an aspect, probe802can move relative to sample presentation820, e.g., in the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, rotationally, etc., so as to be able to access different portions of a sample, different samples, etc., for analysis. Moreover, in some embodiments, motion of probe802can be in addition to, or in lieu of, motion by sample presentation component820.

In some embodiments, sample presentation component820can present a sample for interrogation via probe802. In an aspect, sample presentation component820can move relative to probe802, e.g., in the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, rotationally, etc., so as to be able to present different portions of a sample, different samples, etc., for analysis via probe802. As previously noted, in some embodiments, motion of sample presentation component820can be in addition to, or in lieu of, motion by probe802. A relative position between sample presentation component820and probe802can be determined, e.g., via compliance component812, via sample presentation component820, via a connected controller/computer, etc. The relative positon can be employed to determine that the sample is appropriately oriented for optical interrogation. In some embodiments, sample presentation component820can include a liquid flow cell, a gas flow cell, a sample stage, a sample plate, etc. In some example embodiments, sample presentation component820can include a multi-well plate, e.g., a 384-, 96-, 48-, 24-, 12-, 6-well plate sample container, etc. This can enable analysis of samples in one or more wells of the multi-well plate.

Imaging component830and illumination component840can enable remote viewing of the interior of enclosure810, more particularly a sample and the orientation of the sample and probe802as facilitated by positioning of the sample presentation component820and probe802. In an aspect, imaging component830and/or illumination component840can illuminate and/or image the presentation of the sample to probe802in the human visible spectrum. In some embodiments, imaging component830and illumination component840can also illuminate and image the presentation of the sample to probe802in spectrum outside of the normal range of human vision, e.g., UV, IR, etc. Moreover, imaging component830and illumination component840can be communicatively coupled to compliance component812. This can enable compliance component812to determine the state of imaging component830and a state of illumination component840with regard to compliance rules for system800.

Enclosure810can provide separation between the interior and exterior of enclosure810, such that optical energy associated with interrogation of a sample is safely contained on the interior of enclosure810, and that conditions external to enclosure810are less likely to interfere with the interrogation of the sample on the interior of enclosure810. This can improve operator safety by blocking or attenuating optical emissions. Moreover, the enclosure810can reduce ambient light entering the interface that can cause errors in an optical interrogation of a sample. In some embodiments, enclosure810can include optical attenuation features, e.g., paint, materials, and structures that absorb or attenuate ambient light.

Enclosure810can include viewport component850. Viewport component850can be communicatively coupled to compliance component812. Viewport component850can include an opening in enclosure810that can allow for direct viewing into the interior of enclosure810. In an aspect, the opening can include window materials to allow a direct view into the interior of enclosure810while maintaining the integrity of enclosure810with regard to other features, e.g., environmental control, venting, limiting release of laser light frequencies, etc. As an example, viewport component850can include a laser safe window to attenuate laser light that can escape the sample interface. As another example, viewport component850can include a shutter, sliding plate, etc., that can physically block light transmission. In this example, the operator can directly view the sample, for example to position it, then can provide an input, e.g., slide the shutter shut, press a start button, etc., that can cause the shutter to close before the analysis can proceed. Whereas compliance component812can enable the release of the laser energy when the shutter is closed, the action of shuttering can, in effect, also cause the laser to fire on the sample. Viewport component850can, in some embodiments, be employed in conjunction with imaging component830, e.g., allowing for visualization in the visible spectrum via viewport component850and in the IR, UV, etc., spectrum via imaging component830. In other embodiments, imaging component830can be excluded where viewport component850is included.

Compliance component812can be communicatively coupled to one or more of the enclosure810, probe802, sample presentation component820, imaging component830, illumination component840, viewport component850, etc. Compliance component812can receive a compliance rule related to an aspect of system800. Compliance component812can determine that the compliance rule has been satisfied. In an aspect, compliance component812can determine concurrent compliance with a group of compliance rules related to aspects of system800. As an example, compliance component812can determine that the position of probe802relative to sample presentation component820is concurrently compliant with a viewport component850indicating closed, and that enclosure810is in an operable configuration. In response to determining that there is concurrent compliance among the set of compliance rules, in an aspect, compliance component812can enable release of optical energy for interrogation of the sample. This aspect can reduce opportunities for accidental release of laser energy, for example, where viewport component850is not properly closed, where the probe is not in proper position/contact with the sample, etc. Moreover, this aspect can act as a trigger, such that the compliance rules of the group define when an interrogation of the sample can begin. In another aspect, the compliance rules can benefit the analysis by determining the presence of conditions that are beneficial to improved operation of the Raman spectrometer, e.g., by determining that the illumination source is off before allowing the laser to fire on the sample, compliance component812assures that ambient light in the enclosure has diminished. In a further aspect, compliance component812can disable the release of optical energy in response to determining that a rule has gone into non-compliance, e.g., compliance component812can determine that there is no longer concurrent compliance and, accordingly, can stop enabling release of optical energy.

FIG. 9illustrates a system900enabling environmental control within an enclosed benchtop analytical device in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. System900can include enclosure910. Enclosure910can enclose an interface between a sample and a probe902. In some embodiments, enclosure910can enclose probe902, sample presentation component920, imaging component930, and illumination component940. Probe902, sample presentation component920, imaging component930, and illumination component940can be communicatively coupled to compliance component912.

In some embodiments, probe902can include an optical element to direct optical energy at a sample. In some embodiments, the optical element that directs optical energy at a sample can include a spherical optical element. A spherical optical element can be a BallProbe® that can enable Raman spectrometry via probe902. An example benchtop analytical device including probe902can perform Raman spectrometry by dipping or inserting a portion of probe902into a sample, against a sample, etc., and initiating an optical interrogation of said sample. In an aspect, probe902can move relative to sample presentation component920, e.g., in the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, rotationally, etc., so as to be able to access different portions of a sample, different samples, etc., for analysis.

In some embodiments, sample presentation component920can present a sample for interrogation via probe902. In an aspect, sample presentation component920can move relative to probe902, e.g., in the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, rotationally, etc., so as to be able to present different portions of a sample, different samples, etc., for analysis via probe902. A position of sample presentation component920and probe902can be determined. The positon can be employed to determine that the sample is appropriately oriented for optical interrogation. In some embodiments, sample presentation component920can include a liquid flow cell, a gas flow cell, a sample stage, a sample plate, etc. In some example embodiments, sample presentation component920can include a multi-well plate. This can enable analysis of samples in one or more wells of the multi-well plate.

In some embodiments, system900can include environmental control component960. Environmental control component960can enable control of an environment within enclosure910. Environmental control component960can be communicatively coupled to compliance component912. This can facilitate analysis of delicate samples, hazardous samples, etc. As an example, environmental control component960can maintain a temperature within enclosure910, e.g., below freezing, to allow analysis of icy samples, at STP to allow analysis to be performed independent of temperature or pressure variation, etc. As another example, environmental control component960can vent the enclosure to a fume hood, scrubber or other filtration, etc., to enable analysis of volatile compounds. As a further example, environmental control component960can control humidity, for example to ramp humidity to illustrate a rate of absorption of water into a sample over time by monitoring the change in water in a sample as absorbed from the humidified air over time. In a still further example, environmental control component960can maintain a gaseous environment within enclosure910, for example, an inert environment by filling the enclosure with helium, dry nitrogen, etc., a reactive environment by allowing a fixed amount of oxygen into the enclosure for an analysis of an oxidative event, etc., a reactive environment, etc. In addition, environmental component960can control aspects of other components of system900, for example, controlling a hot-plate or cold-plate feature of sample presentation component920, control of a stir-plate motion for a stir-plate enabled sample presentation component920, control of illumination component940to, for example, UV sterilize the internal area of enclosure910, etc.

Enclosure910can provide separation between the interior and exterior of enclosure910, such that optical energy associated with interrogation of a sample is safely contained on the interior of enclosure910, and that conditions external to enclosure910are less likely to interfere with the interrogation of the sample on the interior of enclosure910. This can improve operator safety by blocking or attenuating optical emissions. Moreover, the enclosure can reduce ambient light entering the interface that can cause errors in an optical interrogation of a sample. In some embodiments, enclosure910can include optical attenuation features, e.g., paint, materials, and structures that absorb or attenuate ambient light.

Enclosure910can include viewport component950. Viewport component950can be communicatively coupled to compliance component912. Viewport component950can include an opening in enclosure910that can allow for direct viewing into the interior of enclosure910. In an aspect, the opening can include window materials to allow a direct view into the interior of enclosure910while maintaining the integrity of enclosure910with regard to other features, e.g., environmental control, venting, limiting release of laser light frequencies, etc.

Enclosure910can further enclose imaging component930and illumination component940. Imaging component930and illumination component940can enable remote viewing of the interior of enclosure910, more particularly a sample and the orientation of the sample and probe902as facilitated by positioning of the sample presentation component920and probe902. In an aspect, imaging component930and illumination component940can illuminate and image the presentation of the sample to probe902in the human visible spectrum. In some embodiments, imaging component930and illumination component940can also illuminate and image the presentation of the sample to probe902in spectrum outside of the normal range of human vision, e.g., UV, IR, etc. Moreover, imaging component930and illumination component940can be communicatively coupled to compliance component912. This can enable compliance component912to determine the state of imaging component930and illumination component940with regard to compliance rules for system900. In some embodiments, illumination component940can further enable sterilization within enclosure910, e.g., illumination component940can generate sufficient UV radiation to sterilize some, or all, of the interior of enclosure910, etc. In some embodiments, a UV sterilization feature can be controlled by environmental control component960.

Compliance component912can be communicatively coupled to one or more of the enclosure910, probe902, sample presentation component920, imaging component930, illumination component940, viewport component950, environmental control component960, etc. Compliance component912can receive a compliance rule related to an aspect of system900. Compliance component912can determine that the compliance rule has been satisfied. In an aspect, compliance component912can determine concurrent compliance with a group of compliance rules related to aspects of system900. As an example, compliance component912can determine that the position of probe902relative to sample presentation component920is concurrently compliant with an illumination mode of illumination component940, an internal inter gas environment via environmental control component960, and that enclosure910is in an operable (e.g., closed) configuration. In response to determining that there is concurrent compliance among the set of compliance rules, in an aspect, compliance component912can enable release of optical energy for interrogation of the sample. This aspect can reduce opportunities for accidental release of laser energy, for example, where the enclosure is not properly closed, where the probe is not in proper position/contact with the sample, etc. Moreover, this aspect can act as a trigger, such that the compliance rules of the group define when an interrogation of the sample can begin. In another aspect, the compliance rules can benefit the analysis by determining the presence of conditions that are beneficial to improved operation of the Raman spectrometer. As an example, by determining that the illumination source is off before allowing the laser to fire on the sample, compliance component912removes ambient light in the enclosure that could interfere with the analysis. As another example, by determining that the sample is in a stable predetermined temperature, via environmental control component960, the captured spectral data can be more consistent than for data captured at varying temperatures. In a further aspect, compliance component912can disable the release of optical energy in response to determining that a rule has gone into non-compliance, e.g., compliance component912can determine that there is no longer concurrent compliance and, accordingly, can stop enabling release of optical energy.

FIG. 10illustrates a system1000that facilitates translation of a sample stage for an enclosed benchtop analytical device in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. System1000can include probe1002and sample presentation component1020. Probe1002and sample presentation component1020can move relative to each other, e.g., in the x-, y-, and z-planes, rotationally, etc. This can allow a sample to be positioned relative to probe1002to enable optical analysis, e.g., Raman spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, etc., at determined locations of the sample. In another aspect, where sample presentation component1020includes a plurality of samples, these samples can be positioned relative to probe1002to enable optical analysis of one or more of the plurality of samples.

In some embodiments, probe1002can include an optical element to direct optical energy at a sample. In some embodiments, the optical element that directs optical energy at a sample can include a spherical optical element. A spherical optical element can be a BallProbe® that can enable Raman spectrometry via probe1002. An example benchtop analytical device including probe1002can perform Raman spectrometry by dipping or inserting a portion of probe1002into a sample, against a sample, etc., and initiating an optical interrogation of said sample. In an aspect, probe1002can move relative to sample presentation component1020, e.g., in the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, rotationally, etc., so as to be able to access different portions of a sample, different samples, etc., for analysis.

In some embodiments, the probe tip can be consumable or exchangeable. This can be in lieu of, or in addition to, the probe tip being cleanable. It will be appreciated that repeated use of a probe tip without cleaning can result in changes to the condition of the probe tip that can alter captured results. As an example, contact of a probe tip with tar can result in the tar adhering to an optical element of the probe and preventing accurate results in following analytical runs of the instrument. In these situations, the tip can be cleaned or exchanged. In an aspect, this can occur in the enclosure. Moreover, some samples can be affiliated with particular types of tips, for example, sampling of concentrated hydrofluoric acid can be better performed with a plastic lens probe tip than a glass lens probe tip. As another example, a first depth of focus can be desired for a first analysis and a different second depth of focus can be desired for another analysis. The disclosed subject matter can include a cleaning component to enable cleaning of a probe tip. Moreover, the disclosed subject matter can include a plurality of other probe tips to allow for replacement of consumed probe tips, exchange of tips suited to an analysis, etc. As an example, a probe tip dipped in tar can be moved to the cleaning component and a different probe tip can be substituted. This can allow the analysis to continue while the first tip is being cleaned. In another example, a damaged tip can be disposed of and a replacement tip can be retrieved from the battery of tips. In a further example, a first tip can be used for a first analysis and then a second tip can be used for a second analysis without needing to open the enclosure. Moreover, the compliance component can, in some embodiments, check the condition of a probe tip to determine if replacement of the tip should occur, e.g., a self-diagnostic, calibration, etc.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, probe1002can include consumable optical element component1004. In an aspect, consumable optical element component1004can include the optical element to direct optical energy at the sample. As an example, consumable optical element component1004can be a disposable tip with a spherical optical element that is connected to probe1002. As such, when consumable optical element component1004becomes dirty, damaged, ill suited to the determined optical analysis, etc., consumable optical element component1004can be jettisoned and a replacement consumable optical element component1004can be connected to probe1002to proceed with further analysis. As an example, disposable pipette tips can be analogous to consumable optical element component1004, in that as much as a disposable pipette tip can be used repeatedly, there are situations in which replacement of the disposable pipette tip is desirable, e.g., to prevent cross contamination, damage to the tip, fouling of the tip, etc. Similarly, consumable optical element component1004can allow continued use of an optical element until it is determined that the consumable optical element component1004should be replaced with another consumable optical element component1004. In an aspect, the replacement consumable optical element component1004can be the same, similar to, or different from, the consumable optical element component1004being replaced.

Moreover, in some embodiments, consumable optical element component1004can be constructed of nearly any material. Consumable optical element component1004can include a suitable polymer. Consumable optical element component1004can include other materials, such as, but not limited to, stainless steel, gold, or other metal; borosilicate or other glass; starches or other carbohydrates, etc.; or nearly any other material suitable to a particular sample environment. Moreover, materials can be machined, sintered, cast, injection molded, 3D-printed, etc., for example to form a body, optical element seat, shroud, etc., of consumable optical element component1004. As an example, consumable optical element component1004can include a polymer body having a sufficiently high coefficient of friction to allow it to be retained by a friction press fit on a receiving end of probe1002. In another aspect, some embodiments of consumable optical element component1004can include an optical element that can be generally spherical. The optical element can be separately manufactured and added to the body of consumable optical element component1004, either as part of a molding process, bonded with an adhesive, attached with a friction or press fit, mechanically captured, etc. In other embodiments, the spherical optical element can be co-formed with the body as part of a molding process, e.g., the spherical optical element can be formed, of the same or a different material, as the consumable optical element component1004body, such as by injection molding; can be formed, of the same or a different material, as the consumable optical element component1004via 3D printing; etc. Additionally, spherical optical elements can be manufactured from nearly any appropriate material, including the same or different materials as the body of consumable optical element component1004. Non-limiting examples of appropriate materials can include a polymer, glass, mineral, etc., depending on the optical properties suited to a given scenario. As noted herein above, ‘spherical’ optical element, or similar terms, can refer to an optical element, e.g., a lens, etc., that has a spherical, or nearly spherical, geometry. Moreover, the term ‘spherical optical element,’ as used herein, can also include any optical element that conducts light via a portion of an optical element that includes a curved surface approximating at least a portion of a sphere. As an example, an optical element including two individual generally hemispherical portions can also be considered a spherical element within the scope of the instant disclosure.

In some embodiments, sample presentation component1020can present a sample for interrogation via probe1002. In an aspect, sample presentation component1020can move relative to probe1002, e.g., in the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, rotationally, etc., so as to be able to present different portions of a sample, different samples, etc., for analysis via probe1002. A position of sample presentation component1020and probe1002can be determined. The positon can be employed to determine that the sample is appropriately oriented for optical interrogation. In some embodiments, sample presentation component1020can include a liquid flow cell, a gas flow cell, a sample stage, a sample plate, etc. In some example embodiments, sample presentation component1020can include a multi-well plate. This can enable analysis of samples in one or more wells of the multi-well plate.

Movement of sample presentation component1020can be enabled by stage motion component1022. In an aspect, stage motion component1022can include, for example, servo motors, piezo-electric actuators, etc., allowing movement of sample placement component1026. Sample placement component1026can facilitate positioning of a sample in a location that can be treated as static in regard to a reference point of sample presentation component1020, such that motion of sample presentation component1020can be correlated with motion of the sample positioned by sample placement component1026. In an aspect, sample placement component1026can include a multi-well plate, a flow cell for a gas and/or liquid, mechanical gripper assembly, an adhesive, a suction gripper assembly, etc., allowing for placement of a sample that is in at least one of a solid, liquid, or gas phase, such that sample presentation component1020can present the sample to probe1002for optical analysis. As an example, a chunk of rock can be adhered to a sample stage, e.g., sample placement component1026, via a piece of double sided tape, allowing stage motion component1022to move the rock into position relative to the position/movement of probe1002to enable a spherical optic of consumable optical element1004to pass laser light onto a desired portion of the rock for Raman analysis thereof. Moreover, sample presentation component1020can include stage interaction component1024that can determine interaction between the probe1002and the sample. In an aspect, stage interaction component1024can determine when probe1002comes into contact with a sample, is located at a determined distance into a sample, e.g., a liquid or gas sample into which probe1002is dipped, etc., is at a determined angle to the sample, etc. As an example, where a BallProbe® equipped consumable optical element component1004is used for contact Raman analysis, the BallProbe® tip can be brought into physical contact with the sample. Stage interaction component1024can determine when contact has occurred. This determined contact can be employed by a compliance component, e.g.,612,712,812,912, etc., to aid in determining concurrent satisfaction of compliance rules. Moreover, this determined contact can be employed to stop additional motion between probe1002and sample presentation component1020that could damage the BallProbe® optical element, e.g., crushing it via additional pressure, scratching it by lateral motion while the BallProbe® is in contact with a solid sample, etc. As an example, a spring-biased pressure sensor can determine contact has been made without exceeding the bias pressure exerted by the bias spring. As another example, an ultrasonic proximity sensor can be employed to determine a distance between the sample presentation component1020and probe1002, which can be used with a model to determine a distance of the probe tip to/into the sample. Numerous other examples are readily appreciated by one of skill in the art and all such examples are within the scope of the present disclosure despite not being explicitly recited for the sake of clarity and brevity.

FIG. 11illustrates a system1100that facilitates cleaning or replacement of an exchangeable optical element component of a probe for an enclosed benchtop analytical device in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. System1100can include probe1102and sample presentation component1120. Probe1102and sample presentation component1120can move relative to each other, e.g., in the x-, y-, and z-planes, rotationally, etc. This can allow a sample to be positioned relative to probe1102to enable optical analysis at determined locations of the sample. In another aspect, where sample presentation component1120includes a plurality of samples, these samples can be positioned relative to probe1102to enable optical analysis of one or more of the plurality of samples.

In some embodiments, probe1102can include an optical element to direct optical energy at a sample. In some embodiments, the optical element that directs optical energy at a sample can include a spherical optical element. A spherical optical element can be a BallProbe® that can enable Raman spectrometry via probe1102. An example benchtop analytical device including probe1102can perform Raman spectrometry by dipping or inserting a portion of probe1102into a sample, against a sample, etc., and initiating an optical interrogation of said sample. In an aspect, probe1102can move relative to sample presentation1120, e.g., in the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, rotationally, etc., so as to be able to access different portions of a sample, different samples, etc., for analysis.

In some embodiments, probe1102can include exchangeable optical element component1104. In an aspect, exchangeable optical element component1104can include the optical element to direct optical energy at the sample. As an example, exchangeable optical element component1104can be an exchangeable tip with a spherical optical element that is connected to probe1102. As such, when exchangeable optical element component1104becomes dirty, damaged, ill suited to the determined optical analysis, etc., a first exchangeable optical element component1104can be removed and a second exchangeable optical element component1104can be attached to probe1102to proceed with further analysis.

In an aspect, this can enable different exchangeable optical element components to be rotated into use based on the characteristics of the several exchangeable optical element components. As an example, a first exchangeable optical element component can have a sapphire lens and a second exchangeable optical element component can have a plastic lens. The second exchangeable optical element component can be used in conditions that do not require the sapphire lens of the first exchangeable optical element component, e.g., because damage to the plastic lens is less costly than to the sapphire lens), however, where an analysis is determined to be better suited to use of the sapphire lens, the second exchangeable optical element component can be exchanged for the first exchangeable optical element component. After the analysis with the sapphire lens is performed, the first exchangeable optical element component can be re-exchanged for the second exchangeable optical element component.

Moreover, in some embodiments, system1100can include exchangeable optical element component storage1106(e.g., a container). Exchangeable optical element component storage1106can store exchangeable optical element component(s) that can be exchanged for exchangeable optical element component1104. In an aspect, exchangeable optical element component storage1106can store a supply of disposable or consumable optical element components. In another aspect, exchangeable optical element component storage1106can store other exchangeable optical element components. As an example, a modern computer numerical control (CNC) milling machine can be equipped with a turret system allowing rapid and automated exchange of milling machining tools, similarly, exchangeable optical element component storage1106can allow for the rapid and automated exchange of exchangeable optical element components within an enclosure, e.g.,110,310,610-910, etc.

In some embodiments, probe1102can employ optical element cleaning component1108to clean optical elements of probe1102. In some embodiments, optical element cleaning component1108can validate that the optical element of probe1102is clean, e.g., via calibration, intensity correction, flat-fielding techniques, wavelength registration techniques, etc. As an example, optical element cleaning component1108can sonicate a probe tip dipped in a solvent between analytical runs where Raman spectra is being taken on oil samples, which can rinse the oil from the probe tip, e.g., the optical element in contact with the oil can be cleaned, to allow an exchangeable optical element component1104to be reused. The cleanliness of the optical element can be verified before reuse. Where the cleanliness of the optical element fails, the optical element can be re-cleaned and validated or, in some embodiments, exchanged for a replacement exchangeable optical element component1104.

In some embodiments, exchangeable optical element component1104can be constructed of nearly any material. Exchangeable optical element component1104can include a suitable polymer. Exchangeable optical element component1104can include other materials, such as, but not limited to, stainless steel, gold, or other metal; borosilicate or other glass; starches or other carbohydrates, etc.; or nearly any other material suitable to a particular sample environment. Moreover, materials can be machined, sintered, cast, injection molded, 3D-printed, etc., for example to form a body, optical element seat, shroud, etc., of exchangeable optical element component1104. In another aspect, some embodiments of exchangeable optical element component1104can include an optical element that can be generally spherical. Additionally, spherical optical elements can be manufactured from nearly any appropriate material, including the same or different materials as the body of exchangeable optical element component1104. As noted herein above, spherical optical element, or similar terms, can refer to an optical element, e.g., a lens, etc., that has a spherical, or nearly spherical, geometry. Moreover, the term spherical optical element, as used herein, can also include any optical element that conducts light via a portion of an optical element that includes a curved surface approximating at least a portion of a sphere.

In some embodiments, sample presentation component1120can present a sample for interrogation via probe1102. In an aspect, sample presentation component1120can move relative to probe1102, e.g., in the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, rotationally, etc., so as to be able to present different portions of a sample, different samples, etc., for analysis via probe1102. A position of sample presentation component1120and probe1102can be determined. The positon can be employed to determine that the sample is appropriately oriented for optical interrogation. In some embodiments, sample presentation component1120can include a liquid flow cell, a gas flow cell, a sample stage, a sample plate, etc. In some example embodiments, sample presentation component1120can include a multi-well plate. This can enable analysis of samples in one or more wells of the multi-well plate.

Movement of sample presentation component1120can be enabled by stage motion comp1122. In an aspect, stage motion comp1122can allowing movement of sample placement component1126. Sample placement component1126can facilitate positioning of a sample in a location that can be treated as static in regard to a reference point of sample presentation component1120, such that motion of sample presentation component1120can be correlated with motion of the sample positioned by sample placement component1126.

Moreover, sample presentation component1120can include stage interaction component1124that can determine interaction between the probe1102and the sample. In an aspect, stage interaction component1124can determine when probe1102comes into contact with a sample, is located at a determined distance into a sample, e.g., a liquid or gas sample into which probe1102is dipped, etc., is at a determined angle to the sample, etc. This determined interaction can be employed by a compliance component, e.g.,612,712,812,912, etc., to aid in determining concurrent satisfaction of compliance rules. Moreover, this determined interaction can be employed to stop additional motion between probe1102and sample presentation component1120.

FIG. 12illustrates an example system1200including an enclosure1210and a computer1250(with a display) coupled thereto for providing a user interface1260for operational control of the system1200and viewing analysis results in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. As described herein, the enclosure1210may include at least a probe1202, a sample presentation component1220, and a compliance component1212for performing optical spectroscopy of a sample within the enclosure.

An operator may interact with the computer1250coupled (via wired or wireless communication) to the enclosure1210using one or more input devices (e.g., mouse, keyboard, touchscreen, etc.), and the display of the computer1250may provide a user interface1260, as shown inFIG. 12. An operator may power on the system1200, place a sample within the enclosure1210so that the sample and the probe1202are positioned to allow the probe1202to optically interrogate the sample during optical spectroscopy. The operator may close the lid of the enclosure1210, and may start interacting with the user interface1260. The compliance1212component may ensure that one or more compliance rules are satisfied (e.g., the enclosure1210is closed) before optical spectroscopy can be performed within the enclosure1210.

The user interface1260may indicate, at1261, that a particular user is logged into a user account maintained by the system1200. This may be accomplished by any suitable technique, such as the operator providing credentials (e.g., a username and a password), biometric (e.g., fingerprint, iris scan, voice recognition, etc.) identification, or any other suitable technique to identify the operator. By associating the operator/user with a particular analysis, statistics can be collected on individual operators to determine if they are compliant with procedures and/or protocols, and the like. Furthermore, a compliance rule (used by the compliance component) may relate to determining that an operator of the benchtop analytical device has logged into a user account. Accordingly, the compliance component may not enable emission of optical energy via the probe1202unless and until this rule is satisfied (e.g., unless and until an operator logs into a user account).

The user interface1260may present a first section1262for the operator to select one of multiple available types of samples. In the example ofFIG. 12, the sample types are in the form of multiple available types of medications (or pharmaceuticals), but the system1200can be configured to analyze any type of sample and is not limited to medications. For instance, the system1200may maintain a database of multiple types of food, or any other type of sample. In any case, the example ofFIG. 12shows three medications, but it is to be appreciated that the system1200may maintain a database of any suitable number of different sample types (e.g., types of medications) that can be selected by the operator for purposes of verifying the type of sample and/or the concentration of the sample. In an example, the operator may select medication 1 in the select medication section1262, which may correspond to a drug such as Cefazolin, which is an antibiotic.

The user interface1260may additionally, or subsequent to selection of a sample type (e.g., a type of medication), present a second section1264for the operator to select an overfill amount of the sample (e.g., medication), such as an amount of overfill in milliliters (ml). In an example, the operator may select an overfill of 10 ml. Depending on the type of sample analyzed, the overfill section1264may be omitted if it is not applicable to the type or category of sample.

The user interface1260may additionally, or subsequent to selection of a medication and an overfill amount, present a third section1266for the operator to select a concentration of the sample (e.g., medication), such as a concentration in micrograms (mcg) per ml, or milligrams (mg) per ml. In an example, the operator may select a concentration of 100 mg/ml. In some embodiments, the selection of a sample type in the first section1262may cause other parameters in the other sections to auto-populate with known values for the selected sample type. For example, the database of sample types may include a single predefined concentration for a particular sample type (e.g., fentanyl). In this example, the operator may select the desired sample type in the first section1262, and the remaining parameter(s) (e.g., concentration) may auto-populate with known values, such as a single predefined concentration specified in the database for that sample type. This can simplify the user interface for the operator by allowing the operator to perform optical spectroscopy on a sample with merely a selection of one or two buttons in the user interface1260.

With a sample (e.g., medication), an overfill amount, and a concentration selected, the operator may select a verify button1268(e.g., or a start button implemented as a soft button on the user interface1260). Upon selection of the verify button1268, optical spectroscopy of the sample may be performed via the probe1202within the enclosure1210, and one or more results of the analysis may be presented on in a results section1270of the user interface1260. The results section1270may indicate whether the type of sample (such as a type of medication) is verified via optical spectroscopy (e.g., by determining that the obtained Raman spectra matches a known Raman spectra of the type of sample), and/or whether the concentration of the sample is verified via optical spectroscopy (e.g., using an algorithm that is a function of the intensity of the obtained Raman spectra). In the running example, the system1200has verified that the sample placed within the enclosure1210is indeed the medication selected by the operator (e.g., Medication 1: Cefazolin), and is indeed at the concentration selected by the operator (e.g., 100 mg/ml). If the sample was not verified to be the type of sample selected by the operator, the results section1270may indicate as much by a different output, such as “not verified.” Although the various sections1262,1264,1266,1270are shown in a single user interface1260, it is to be appreciated that these sections may be presented in a series of sequential user interfaces.

If the operator would like to verify additional samples of the same type, overfill, and concentration selected for the first sample, the system1200can maintain the selections of the operator and the operator may simply open the lid of the enclosure1210, replace the previously-analyzed sample with another sample that is suspected to be the same type of sample (in the same amount of overfill and the same concentration), close the lid of the enclosure1210, and select the verify button1268for the next sample. This allows an operator to perform batch processing to verify multiple samples (or concentrations thereof) in a serial manner without additional user input steps to select the parameters of the analysis. Additionally, or alternatively, if the operator would like to analyze a different type of sample (e.g., a different medication), the operator can select a new medication button1272on the user interface1260, where after the operator may select the type of medication, the overfill amount, and the concentration for the new sample.

An illustrative application for the systems described herein (e.g., the system1200) is in the field of medicine, where the operator may be a pharmacy technician who is filling a prescription for a patient. The prescription indicates that a 60 ml syringe of hydromorphone mixed in saline is to be filled for a patient. The pharmacy technician can fill the syringe with the prescribed mixture, place the syringe in the enclosure1210, select the sample type as “hydromorphone,” (and possibly select an overfill and concentration, if applicable), and then select the verify button1268to verify that the sample in the syringe is indeed hydromorphone and/or that the concentration of the sample is a concentration specified by the operator. Many possible end uses for such a system are contemplated. For example, the system1200can be used to catch theft of medication, such as by testing samples of medication at any stage of their lifetime as the medication moves throughout a hospital or pharmacy setting. This, in turn, may help ensure that patients are getting a correct medication and a correct dosage of medication.

Other applications, including those in other industries, are also contemplated. For example, a verification approach similar to that described with reference toFIG. 12can be used in the food industry, where a restaurant, for example, wants to determine if a food product is of a particular type and/or concentration for quality purposes to ensure that their inventory is correct. As another example, the sample verification approach described herein can be used to confirm control conditions in diagnostic assays. The identity and/or concentration of counterfeit goods can also be verified using the sample verification approach described herein. Examples of counterfeited goods include, without limitation, oils (e.g., food, petroleum, etc.), rubber (e.g., for tires), antiquities, arms and weaponry, and the like. In fact, optical spectroscopy can be used to verify the type and/or concentration of many different types of samples pertaining to various goods, such as, without limitation, ball bearings, beverages, biological samples, blood, cannabis products, ceramics, clothing, crops, curing agents, environmental pollutants, explosives, feed products, food, herbicides, jewelries, liquids, liquors, living matter, lotions, luxury goods, medicines, metals, nutritional supplements, oils, perfumes, personal care products, pesticides, petroleum, petroleum-derived liquids, pharmaceuticals, plastics, polyisocyanates, precious metal objects, reagents, rubbers, textiles, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoset polymers, etc.

It is to be appreciated that the systems described herein (e.g., the system1200) may be used in other ways, such as diagnostics, where the results section1270may present additional and/or different results in response to optical spectroscopy of a sample within the enclosure1210. For instance, the operator may not be required to select a sample type (e.g., a medication) beforehand, and, instead, may simply initiate an analysis (e.g., optical spectroscopy) of an unknown sample. In this example, the results section1270may specify what type of sample was detected using optical spectroscopy, and the concentration of that sample. This configuration may utilize a database of Raman spectra to compare the analysis results against to identify a type of sample and a concentration of the sample. In some cases, the results section1270may present a Raman spectra obtained from performing Raman spectroscopy on the sample, the Raman spectra being a “fingerprint” or “signature” of a particular material or sample type.

In view of the example system(s) described above, example process(s) that can be implemented in accordance with the disclosed subject matter can be better appreciated with reference to flowcharts inFIG. 13-FIG. 17. For purposes of simplicity of explanation, example processes disclosed herein are presented and described as a series of acts; however, it is to be understood and appreciated that the claimed subject matter is not limited by the order of acts, as some acts may occur in different orders and/or concurrently with other acts from that shown and described herein. For example, one or more example processes disclosed herein could alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states or events, such as in a state diagram. Moreover, interaction diagram(s) may represent processes in accordance with the disclosed subject matter when disparate entities enact disparate portions of the processes. Furthermore, not all illustrated acts may be required to implement a described example process in accordance with the subject specification. Further yet, two or more of the disclosed example processes can be implemented in combination with each other, to accomplish one or more aspects herein described. It should be further appreciated that the example processes disclosed throughout the subject specification are capable of being stored on an article of manufacture (e.g., a computer-readable medium) to allow transporting and transferring such processes to computers for execution, and thus implementation, by a processor or for storage in a memory.

FIG. 13illustrates a process1300facilitating release of optical interrogation energy based on satisfaction of a rule for an enclosed benchtop analytical device in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. At1310, process1300can include enabling emission of optical energy. The enabling can be in response to determining that a rule is satisfied, the rule relating to an operable configuration of the enclosure.

In an aspect, a Raman spectrometer can interrogate a sample by emitting optical energy, into or onto a sample. Optical energy can be returned from the sample that is characteristic of the molecular composition of the sample. A rule related to an operable configuration of the enclosure can be determined to be satisfied when the lid is in a closed position relative to the body of the enclosure. In an aspect, this can allow designation of procedures, tolerances, and safety measures to be automatically monitored before allowing the analysis to proceed. As an example, a contact sensor can verify that an enclosure is closed before allowing a release of laser light to interrogate a sample, which can prevent the laser emission while the enclosure is not closed to protect an operator.

At1320, process1300can include disabling emission of the optical energy in response to determining a lack of satisfaction of the rule. In an aspect, the optical energy can be stopped or shunted in response to determining that a rule is no longer satisfied. A compliance component, e.g.,612,712,812,912, etc., can receive input from various sensors, monitors, user inputs, etc., to coordinate a release of a hold on optical energy to begin an analysis or halt an ongoing analysis.

As an example, an operator can place a sample in an enclosure having a contact sensor to detect closure of the lid of the enclosure. The example operator can then place a sample (e.g., a packaged sample) on or in the sample presentation component (e.g., on a sample plate), and the operator can close the lid of the enclosure to start the analysis. In this example, the compliance component can determine that the enclosure is properly closed before the analysis is allowed to proceed. Further, when a rule transitions from “in compliance” to “out of compliance” (e.g., the enclosure is opened), the interrogation beam can be shut off at block1320. This can serve to protect the operator of the benchtop analytical device, protect the optical sensor of the instrument, ensure data quality, etc. FIG.14illustrates a process1400facilitating release of optical interrogation energy based on satisfaction of rules for an enclosed benchtop analytical device in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. At1410, process1400can include enabling emission of optical energy. The enabling can be in response to determining concurrent satisfaction of rules including a first rule. The first rule can be related to determining contact between an optical element of a Raman spectroscopy probe and a sample. The first rule can be related to determining that the enclosure is closed.

In an aspect, a Raman spectrometer can interrogate a sample by emitting optical energy, into or onto a sample. Optical energy can be returned from the sample that is characteristic of the molecular composition of the sample. A first rule related to the contact can be determined to be satisfied when a probe, e.g., probe102,302,402,502,602,702,802,902,1002,1102,1202, etc., is in contact with a sample, e.g., is pressed against a solid sample, inserted into a liquid or gas sample, etc. Where this first rule is part of a group of rules, and the group of rules is determined to be concurrently satisfied, the release of optical energy for interrogation of a sample can be enabled. A first rule related to a closed state of the enclosure can be determined to be satisfied when the lid is in a closed position relative to the body of the enclosure. In an aspect, this can allow designation of procedures, tolerances, and safety measures to be automatically monitored before allowing the analysis to proceed. As an example, a contact sensor can verify that an enclosure is closed before allowing a release of laser light to interrogate a sample, which can prevent the laser emission while the enclosure is not closed to protect an operator. Additional rules of the group of rules can be determined to be concurrently satisfied at1410. For example, a rule relating to an operator being logged into a user account can be monitored to determine if the rule is satisfied concurrently with the first rule. As another example, a contact sensor can verify that an enclosure is closed before allowing via the probe to interrogate a sample. As another example, a light sensor can be monitored to ensure the sample is in darkness before the analysis can proceed, which can reduce artifacts in the spectral results that can occur when ambient light is present. As a further example, a temperature within the enclosure can be monitored (e.g., using a temperature sensor) to allow a sample to be at a known state before the analysis is enabled to proceed, which can reduce variation between analytical runs that can result from operators opening and closing an enclosure between runs. A compliance component can receive input from various sensors, monitors, user inputs, etc., to coordinate a release of a hold on an analysis, e.g., the analysis can occur in response to the concurrent satisfaction of one or more compliance rules. As another example, an operator can place a sample in an enclosure having an imaging system and a sample contact sensor. The example operator can then position a Raman probe at an area of interest on the sample. The imaging system can then be switched to a non-illumination mode to reduce light pollution and the example Raman probe can be advanced against the sample. In this example, the compliance component can determine that the enclosure is properly closed, that concurrently the illumination source is off, and can wait for the contact sensor to concurrently indicate that the Raman probe has contacted the sample. Upon the sample being contacted by the Raman probe, the contact sensor can indicate that contact has been made, which can satisfy a contact rule concurrently with the lights being off and the enclosure being closed, and can result in the analysis being allowed to proceed, e.g., the concurrent satisfaction of the conditions can start the analysis. This can allow an operator to simply place the sample, close the door, position the sample via a camera, and move the probe to contact the sample, whereupon the analysis is triggered and the operator can begin the subsequent analysis. Moreover, expanding the prior example, an array of samples, e.g., placed on a 96-well plate, etc., can be placed in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, the enclosure can be closed, the operator can move, with the help of an internal video camera and illuminator, the probe to the first of the 96 wells in the plate and press a start button. In response, the example system can shut off the illuminator and begin a stage translation process to bring the probe into contact with each well of the 96-well plate sequentially. The example compliance component can verify that the enclosure is closed, that the illuminator is off, and can enable the Raman interrogation laser only when the probe is determined to be in contact with the sample plate, e.g., at each well as the translation process cycles the probe contact with each well, concurrent with the illuminator being off and the enclosure being closed.

At1420, process1400can include disabling emission of the optical energy in response to determining a lack of concurrent satisfaction of the rules. In an aspect, the optical energy can be stopped or shunted in response to determining that a rule of the rules is no longer satisfied. Between1410and1420, this can result in releasing optical energy only when the rules are simultaneously satisfied. A compliance component, e.g.,612,712,812,912, etc., can receive input from various sensors, monitors, user inputs, etc., to coordinate a release of a hold on optical energy to begin an analysis, e.g., the analysis can occur in response to the concurrent satisfaction of one or more compliance rules.

As an example, an operator can place a sample in an enclosure having an imaging system and a sample contact sensor. The example operator can then position a Raman probe at an area of interest on the sample. The imaging system can then be switched to a non-illumination mode to reduce light pollution and the example Raman probe can be advanced against the sample. In this example, the compliance component can determine that the enclosure is properly closed, that concurrently the illumination source is off, and can wait for the contact sensor to indicate concurrently that the Raman probe has contacted the sample. Upon the sample being contacted by the Raman probe, the contact sensor can indicate that contact has been made, which can satisfy a contact rule concurrently with the lights being off, and the enclosure being closed, and can result in the analysis being allowed to proceed, e.g., the concurrent satisfaction of the conditions can start the analysis. This can allow an operator to simply place the sample, close the door, position the sample via a camera, and move the probe to contact the sample, whereupon the analysis is triggered and the operator can begin the subsequent analysis. Further, when the probe is retracted from the sample, the enclosure is opened, or the illumination source is reactivated, the interrogation beam can be shut off. This can serve to protect the operator of the instrument, protect the optical sensor of the instrument, ensure data quality, etc. Moreover, an array of samples, e.g., placed on a 96-well plate, etc., can be placed in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, the enclosure can be closed, the operator can move, with the help of an internal video camera and illuminator, the probe to the first of the 96 wells in the plate and press a start button. In response, the example system can shut off the illuminator and begin a stage translation process to bring the probe into contact with each well of the 96-well plate sequentially. The example compliance component can verify that the enclosure is closed, that the illuminator is off, and can enable the Raman interrogation laser only when the probe is determined to be in contact with the sample plate, e.g., at each well as the translation process cycles the probe contact with each well, concurrent with the illuminator being off and the enclosure being closed. As such, should the enclosure be opened, the compliance component can prevent the release of laser energy.

At1430, process1400can include indicating a first value corresponding to a first state of an enclosure condition corresponding to the first rule. At this point process1400can end. This can allow access to the first value by other systems/components, operators, etc. As an example, where the first rule relates to determining contact between the optical element of a Raman probe and the sample, the first value can be a distance between the probe and the sample, between the probe and the sample stage, a proximity metric of the probe to the sample, a depth of insertion of the probe into a flow cell, an amount of pressure measured between the probe and the sample stage, etc. The first value can guide additional actions, e.g., where the pressure between the probe and the sample plate transitions a threshold value, the distance between the probe and sample plate can be increased to prevent damage to the optical element of the probe, etc.

In some embodiments, acquisition of optical spectrums can be facilitated by process1400. In some embodiments, a wireless link between a mobile device or other user equipment and the enclosed benchtop Raman spectrometer can enable control of aspects of the enclosed benchtop Raman spectrometer, for example, allowing modification, creation, deletion, etc., of rules and/or groups of rules. In another embodiment, a wired link between a user equipment and the enclosed benchtop Raman spectrometer can similarly enable control of aspects of the enclosed benchtop Raman spectrometer.

FIG. 15illustrates a process1500enabling emission of first interrogating optical energy based on an indication of contact between a probe and a sample and a concurrent indication of sufficiently attenuated non-interrogation optical energy in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. At1510, process1500can include enabling emission of optical energy. The enabling can be in response to determining concurrent satisfaction of rules including a first rule and a second rule. The first rule can be related to determining contact between an optical element of a Raman spectroscopy probe and a sample. The second rule can be related to second optical energy proximate to the interface between the optical element and the sample.

A first rule related to the contact can be determined to be satisfied when a probe, e.g., probe102,302,420,502,602,702,802,902,1002,1102,1202, etc., is in contact with a sample, e.g., is pressed against a solid sample, inserted into a liquid or gas sample, etc. The first rule can be satisfied when the probe is in contact with the sample to be tested. A second rule can relate to attenuation of ambient light in the interior of the enclosure. In an aspect, for example where the interior of the enclosure is monitored by an imaging device using an illuminator, e.g.,730/740,830/840,930/940, etc., it can be desirable to have the illuminator not emitting light that can be detected at the detector of the Raman spectrometer during interrogation of a sample. As such, the second rule can validate that the illuminator is off, that ambient light is below a threshold level, etc., within the enclosure, and more particularly at the sample-probe interface where stray light could affect spectroscopy results. Where this first rule is part of a group of rules, the second rule is part of the group of rules, and the group of rules is determined to be concurrently satisfied, the release of optical energy for interrogation of a sample can be enabled.

At1520, process1500can include disabling emission of the optical energy in response to determining a lack of concurrent satisfaction of the rules. In an aspect, the optical energy can be stopped or shunted in response to determining that a rule, e.g., the first rule, the second rule, etc., of the rules is not being concurrently satisfied. This can result in releasing optical energy if, and only if, the group of rules are simultaneously satisfied. A compliance component, e.g.,612,712,812,912, etc., can receive input from various sensors, monitors, user inputs, etc., to coordinate a release of a hold on optical energy to begin an analysis, e.g., the analysis can occur in response to the concurrent satisfaction of one or more compliance rules.

At1530, process1500can include indicating a first value corresponding to a first state of a first enclosure condition corresponding to the first rule. This can allow access to the first value by other systems/components, operators, etc. As an example, where the first rule relates to determining contact between the optical element of a Raman probe and the sample, the first value can be a distance between the probe and the sample, between the probe and the sample stage, a proximity metric of the probe to the sample, a depth of insertion of the probe into a flow cell, an amount of pressure measured between the probe and the sample stage, etc. The first value can guide additional actions, e.g., where the pressure between the probe and the sample plate transitions a threshold value, the distance between the probe and sample plate can be increased to prevent damage to the optical element of the probe, etc.

At1540, process1500can include indicating a second value corresponding to a second state of a second enclosure condition corresponding to the second rule. At this point process1500can end. This can allow access to the second value by other systems/components, operators, etc. As an example, where the second rule relates to determining ambient optical energy within the enclosure, the second value can be a measure of optical energy at a time, a time value indicating a rate of optical energy attenuation, etc. The second value can guide additional actions, e.g., where UV light causes a sample to fluoresce to facilitate placement of the probe relative to the sample, the fluorescence can decrease at a measurable rate, which measurable rate can be reflected in the second value. As such, this example second value can be employed, for example, by a timing delay component, e.g., included in the compliance component, etc., to delay onset of an optical analysis to allow for the fluorescence to drop below a threshold level to improve the results of the acquired spectral information.

FIG. 16illustrates a process1600that facilitating sequential optical interrogation of samples at different sample locations within an enclosed benchtop analytical device in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure. At1610, process1600can include enabling emission of first optical energy. The enabling can be in response to determining concurrent satisfaction of first rules including determining contact between an optical element of a Raman spectroscopy probe and a sample at a first location. Contact can be determined to be satisfied when a probe, e.g., probe102,302,420,502,602,702,802,902,1002,1102,1202, etc., is in contact with a sample, e.g., is pressed against a solid sample, inserted into a liquid or gas sample, etc.

At1620, process1600can include disabling emission of the optical energy in response to determining a lack of concurrent satisfaction of the first rules. In an aspect, the optical energy can be stopped or shunted in response to determining that the first rules are not being concurrently satisfied. This can result in releasing optical energy if, and only if, the first rules are simultaneously satisfied. A compliance component, e.g.,612,712,812,912, etc., can receive input from various sensors, monitors, user inputs, etc., to coordinate a release of a hold on optical energy to begin an analysis, e.g., the analysis can occur in response to the concurrent satisfaction of one or more compliance rules of the first rules.

At1630, process1600can include indicating a change in position between the optical element of the Raman spectroscopy probe and the first location. In an aspect, the change in position can occur subsequent to the probe not being in contact with a solid sample to prevent damage to the probe, although it will be noted that where the probe is in a gas or liquid, the change in position can occur without removing the probe form contact with the sample where the gas or liquid is unlikely to damage the probe. In some embodiments, the change in position can correlate to distances between wells included in a multi-well plate, e.g., a 384-, 96-, 48-, 24-, 12-, 6-well plate sample container, etc. This can enable analysis of samples in one or more wells of the multi-well plate.

At1640, process1600can include determining that a clean probe rule has been satisfied. The clean probe rule can relate to cleaning of the optical element of the Raman spectroscopy probe between contacts with a sample(s), e.g., the optical element can be determined to be optically transparent in Raman relevant regions to satisfy the clean probe rule. In some embodiments, where cleaning of the probe fails, the probe can be exchanged for a new or otherwise clean probe. This new or other clean probe can satisfy the clean probe rule.

At1650, process1600can include enabling emission of second optical energy. The enabling can be in response to determining concurrent satisfaction of second rules including determining contact between an optical element of a Raman spectroscopy probe and a sample at a second location. At this point process1600can end. In an aspect, the second capture of a second Raman spectrum at a second location of a sample, or another sample, can occur automatically in response to the second rules being determined to be concurrently satisfied. In an example, where a probe is in contact with a sample in a first well of a plate, a first spectrum can be captured where the first rules are concurrently satisfied. Upon retracting the probe from the first well, the first rules can fail to be satisfied and the Raman laser can correspondingly be shunted. The plate can be moved and the probe can be cleaned. The probe can then be brought into contact with a sample in a second well of the plate in a manner that concurrently satisfies second rules, whereby shunting of the laser is ended and a second Raman spectrum can be captured.

FIG. 17illustrates an example process1700enabling verification of a type of sample and/or a concentration of the sample by performing optical spectroscopy of the sample within an enclosure of a benchtop analytical device in accordance with aspects of the subject disclosure.

At1710, a computer coupled to a benchtop analytical device may receive, via a user interface, a selection of (i) a type of sample among multiple available types of samples or (ii) a concentration of the type of sample. For example, the computer may maintain a database of available types of samples (e.g., types of medication) for selection, and an operator may select one of those types of samples in order to verify a sample in the operator's possession is the type of sample, and/or to verify that the sample in the operator's possession is of a particular concentration.FIG. 12shows an example user interface1260for this purpose.

At1720, optical spectroscopy of a sample within an enclosure of the benchtop analytical device may be performed by emitting optical energy from a probe within the enclosure toward the sample. For instance, the operator may place a sample within the enclosure of the benchtop analytical device, may close the lid of the enclosure, and commence optical spectroscopy of the sample by pressing a button (e.g., a verify button, start button, etc.).

At1730, the computer may output, via the user interface, a result verifying (i) that the sample is the type of sample or (ii) the sample is of a concentration corresponding to (e.g., equal to, within a tolerance of, etc.) the selected concentration.

The process1700may be implemented in combination with any of the features and functionality described herein for operational use of the disclosed benchtop analytical device. In particular, the features and functionality described with reference toFIG. 12can be included in the context of the process1700.

FIG. 18is a schematic block diagram of a computing environment1800with which the disclosed subject matter can interact. The system1800includes one or more remote component(s)1810. The remote component(s)1810can be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). In some embodiments, remote component(s)1810can include servers, personal servers, etc. As an example, remote component(s)1810can be a remote server, a controller component, a remotely located compliance component612,712,812,912, etc., user equipment, laboratory information management system (LIMS) component, etc.

The system1800also includes one or more local component(s)1820. The local component(s)1820can be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). In some embodiments, local component(s)1820can include, for example, a local compliance component612,712,812,912, etc., imaging component130,230,330,430, etc., sample presentation component620,720,820,920,1020,1120,1220, etc., stage motion component1022,1122, etc.

One possible communication between a remote component(s)1810and a local component(s)1820can be in the form of a data packet adapted to be transmitted between two or more computer processes. Another possible communication between a remote component(s)1810and a local component(s)1820can be in the form of circuit-switched data adapted to be transmitted between two or more computer processes in radio time slots. The system1800includes a communication framework1840that can be employed to facilitate communications between the remote component(s)1810and the local component(s)1820, and can include an air interface, e.g., Uu interface of a UMTS network. Remote component(s)1810can be operably connected to one or more remote data store(s)1850, such as a hard drive, SIM card, device memory, etc., that can be employed to store information on the remote component(s)1810side of communication framework1840. Similarly, local component(s)1820can be operably connected to one or more local data store(s)1830, that can be employed to store information on the local component(s)1820side of communication framework1840.

In the subject specification, terms such as “store,” “storage,” “data store,” data storage,” “database,” and substantially any other information storage component relevant to operation and functionality of a component, refer to “memory components,” or entities embodied in a “memory” or components including the memory. It is noted that the memory components described herein can be either volatile memory or nonvolatile memory, or can include both volatile and nonvolatile memory, by way of illustration, and not limitation, volatile memory1920(see below), non-volatile memory1922(see below), disk storage1924(see below), and memory storage1946(see below). Further, nonvolatile memory can be included in read only memory, programmable read only memory, electrically programmable read only memory, electrically erasable read only memory, or flash memory. Volatile memory can include random access memory, which acts as external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, random access memory is available in many forms such as synchronous random access memory , dynamic random access memory, synchronous dynamic random access memory, double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory, enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory, Synchlink dynamic random access memory, and direct Rambus random access memory. Additionally, the disclosed memory components of systems or processes herein are intended to include, without being limited to including, these and any other suitable types of memory.

FIG. 19illustrates a block diagram of a computing system1900operable to execute the disclosed systems and processes in accordance with some embodiments. Computer1912, which can be, for example, included in compliance component612-912, etc., sample presentation component620-1220, etc., stage motion component1022-1122, etc., state interaction component1024-1124, etc., enclosure110,310,410,610-910, and1210, etc., imaging component630-930, etc., environmental control component960, etc., includes a processing unit1914, a system memory1916, and a system bus1918. System bus1918couples system components including, but not limited to, system memory1916to processing unit1914. Processing unit1914can be any of various available processors. Dual microprocessors and other multiprocessor architectures also can be employed as processing unit1914.

System bus1918can be any of several types of bus structure(s) including a memory bus or a memory controller, a peripheral bus or an external bus, and/or a local bus using any variety of available bus architectures including, but not limited to, industrial standard architecture, micro-channel architecture, extended industrial standard architecture, intelligent drive electronics, video electronics standards association local bus, peripheral component interconnect, card bus, universal serial bus, advanced graphics port, personal computer memory card international association bus, Firewire (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 1194), and small computer systems interface.

System memory1916can include volatile memory1920and nonvolatile memory1922. A basic input/output system, containing routines to transfer information between elements within computer1912, such as during start-up, can be stored in nonvolatile memory1922. By way of illustration, and not limitation, nonvolatile memory1922can include read only memory, programmable read only memory, electrically programmable read only memory, electrically erasable read only memory, or flash memory. Volatile memory1920includes read only memory, which acts as external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, read only memory is available in many forms such as synchronous random access memory, dynamic read only memory, synchronous dynamic read only memory, double data rate synchronous dynamic read only memory, enhanced synchronous dynamic read only memory, Synchlink dynamic read only memory, Rambus direct read only memory, direct Rambus dynamic read only memory, and Rambus dynamic read only memory.

Computer1912can also include removable/non-removable, volatile/non-volatile computer storage media.FIG. 19illustrates, for example, disk storage1824. Disk storage1924includes, but is not limited to, devices like a magnetic disk drive, floppy disk drive, tape drive, flash memory card, or memory stick. In addition, disk storage1924can include storage media separately or in combination with other storage media including, but not limited to, an optical disk drive such as a compact disk read only memory device, compact disk recordable drive, compact disk rewritable drive or a digital versatile disk read only memory. To facilitate connection of the disk storage devices1924to system bus1918, a removable or non-removable interface is typically used, such as interface1926.

Computer-readable storage media can be any available storage media that can be accessed by the computer and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable storage media can be implemented in connection with any process or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, program modules, structured data, or unstructured data. Computer-readable storage media can include, but are not limited to, read only memory, programmable read only memory, electrically programmable read only memory, electrically erasable read only memory, flash memory or other memory technology, compact disk read only memory, digital versatile disk or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or other tangible media which can be used to store desired information. In this regard, the term “tangible” herein as may be applied to storage, memory or computer-readable media, is to be understood to exclude only propagating intangible signals per se as a modifier and does not relinquish coverage of all standard storage, memory or computer-readable media that are not only propagating intangible signals per se. In an aspect, tangible media can include non-transitory media wherein the term “non-transitory” herein as may be applied to storage, memory or computer-readable media, is to be understood to exclude only propagating transitory signals per se as a modifier and does not relinquish coverage of all standard storage, memory or computer-readable media that are not only propagating transitory signals per se. Computer-readable storage media can be accessed by one or more local or remote computing devices, e.g., via access requests, queries or other data retrieval protocols, for a variety of operations with respect to the information stored by the medium. As such, for example, a computer-readable medium can include executable instructions stored thereon that, in response to execution, cause a system including a processor to perform operations, including: enabling emission of optical energy in response to determining concurrent satisfaction of a group of rules, e.g., via compliance component612-912, etc.

It can be noted thatFIG. 19describes software that acts as an intermediary between users and computer resources described in suitable operating environment1900. Such software can include an operating system1928. Operating system1928, which can be stored on disk storage1924, acts to control and allocate resources of computer system1912. System applications1930take advantage of the management of resources by operating system1928through program modules1932and program data1934stored either in system memory1916or on disk storage1924. It is to be noted that the disclosed subject matter can be implemented with various operating systems or combinations of operating systems.

A user can enter commands or information into computer1912through input device(s)1936. In some embodiments, a user interface can allow entry of user preference information, etc., and can be embodied in a touch sensitive display panel, a mouse input GUI, a command line controlled interface, etc., allowing a user to interact with computer1912. Input devices1936include, but are not limited to, a pointing device such as a mouse, trackball, stylus, touch pad, keyboard, microphone, joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, TV tuner card, digital camera, digital video camera, web camera, cell phone, smartphone, tablet computer, etc. These and other input devices connect to processing unit1914through system bus1918by way of interface port(s)1938. Interface port(s)1938include, for example, a serial port, a parallel port, a game port, a universal serial bus, an infrared port, a Bluetooth port, an IP port, or a logical port associated with a wireless service, etc. Output device(s)1940use some of the same type of ports as input device(s)1936.

Thus, for example, a universal serial bus port can be used to provide input to computer1912and to output information from computer1912to an output device1940. Output adapter1942is provided to illustrate that there are some output devices1940like monitors, speakers, and printers, among other output devices1940, which use special adapters. Output adapters1942include, by way of illustration and not limitation, video and sound cards that provide means of connection between output device1940and system bus1918. It should be noted that other devices and/or systems of devices provide both input and output capabilities such as remote computer(s)1944.

Computer1912can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers, such as remote computer(s)1944. Remote computer(s)1944can be a personal computer, a server, a router, a network PC, cloud storage, a cloud service, code executing in a cloud-computing environment, a workstation, a microprocessor based appliance, a peer device, or other common network node and the like, and typically includes many or all of the elements described relative to computer1912.

For purposes of brevity, only a memory storage device1946is illustrated with remote computer(s)1944. Remote computer(s)1944is logically connected to computer1912through a network interface1948and then physically connected by way of communication connection1950. Network interface1948encompasses wire and/or wireless communication networks such as local area networks and wide area networks. Local area network technologies include fiber distributed data interface, copper distributed data interface, Ethernet, Token Ring, Radius, Diameter, and the like. Wide area network technologies include, but are not limited to, point-to-point links, circuit-switching networks like integrated services digital networks and variations thereon, packet switching networks, and digital subscriber lines. As noted below, wireless technologies may be used in addition to or in place of the foregoing.

Communication connection(s)1950refer(s) to hardware/software employed to connect network interface1948to bus1918. While communication connection1950is shown for illustrative clarity inside computer1912, it can also be external to computer1912. The hardware/software for connection to network interface1948can include, for example, internal and external technologies such as modems, including regular telephone grade modems, cable modems and digital subscriber line modems, integrated services digital network adapters, and Ethernet cards.

As will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, each embodiment disclosed herein can comprise, consist essentially of or consist of its particular stated element, step, ingredient or component. Thus, the terms “include” or “including” should be interpreted to recite: “comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of” The transition term “comprise” or “comprises” means includes, but is not limited to, and allows for the inclusion of unspecified elements, steps, ingredients, or components, even in major amounts. The transitional phrase “consisting of” excludes any element, step, ingredient or component not specified. The transition phrase “consisting essentially of” limits the scope of the embodiment to the specified elements, steps, ingredients or components and to those that do not materially affect the embodiment.

Moreover, terms like “user equipment (UE),” “mobile station,” “mobile,” subscriber station,” “subscriber equipment,” “access terminal,” “terminal,” “handset,” and similar terminology, refer to a wireless device utilized by a subscriber or user of a wireless communication service to receive or convey data, control, voice, video, sound, gaming, or substantially any data-stream or signaling-stream. The foregoing terms are utilized interchangeably in the subject specification and related drawings. Likewise, the terms “access point,” “AP,” “base station,” “Node B,” “evolved Node B,” “eNodeB,” “home Node B,” “home access point,” and the like, are utilized interchangeably in the subject application, and refer to a wireless network component or appliance that serves and receives data, control, voice, video, sound, gaming, or substantially any data-stream or signaling-stream to and from a set of subscriber stations or provider enabled devices. Data and signaling streams can include packetized or frame-based flows.

Aspects, features, or advantages of the subject matter can be exploited in substantially any, or any, wired, broadcast, wireless telecommunication, radio technology or network, or combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of such technologies or networks include broadcast technologies (e.g., sub-Hertz, extremely low frequency, very low frequency, low frequency, medium frequency, high frequency, very high frequency, ultra-high frequency, super-high frequency, terahertz broadcasts, etc.); Ethernet; X.25; powerline-type networking, e.g., Powerline audio video Ethernet, etc.; femtocell technology; Wi-Fi; worldwide interoperability for microwave access; enhanced general packet radio service; third generation partnership project, long term evolution; third generation partnership project universal mobile telecommunications system; third generation partnership project 2, ultra mobile broadband; high speed packet access; high speed downlink packet access; high speed uplink packet access; enhanced data rates for global system for mobile communication evolution radio access network; universal mobile telecommunications system terrestrial radio access network; or long term evolution advanced.

What has been described above includes examples of systems and processes illustrative of the disclosed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every combination of components or processes herein. One of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible.