Apparatuses for generating a reciprocating motion for the purpose of grinding of samples

An apparatus generating a reciprocating motion for the purpose of grinding or homogenizing samples, the apparatus comprising:

• a connecting linkage having a proximal end and a distal end;
• a crank configured to rotate about a central axis;
• a crank pivot coupled to the crank at a position away from the central axis of the crank and coupled to the connecting linkage at the proximal end of the connecting linkage such that as the crank rotates the proximal end of the connecting linkage undergoes rotational motion;
• a sliding carriage configured to slide along a rail;
• a slide pivot coupled to the sliding carriage and coupled to the connecting linkage at the distal end of the connecting linkage such that as the crank rotates the distal end of the connecting linkage undergoes linear motion;
• a holder configured to hold a sample vial, the holder attached to the connecting linkage between the proximal end and the distal end such that as the crank rotates the sample vial undergoes a combination of rotational and linear motion.

A mechanical reciprocating apparatus to grind or homogenize samples, the apparatus comprising:

• a holder configured to hold a sample vial;
• a connecting linkage having a proximal pivot point and a distal pivot point, the holder being attached to the connecting linkage between the proximal pivot point and the distal pivot point;
• a frame top;
• a rail coupled to the frame top;
• a crank pivot connected to the proximal pivot point of the connecting linkage;
• a slide pivot connected to the distal pivot point of the connecting linkage;
• a sliding carriage coupled to the slide pivot and to the rail such that the sliding carriage is configured to slide along the rail thereby causing the slide pivot to undergo linear motion;
• and
• a crank attached to the crank pivot and positioned between the connecting linkage and the frame top.