Particle sampling systems and methods for robotic controlled manufacturing barrier systems
AssigneeParticle Measuring Systems, Inc.
InventorsGiovanni Scialo, Davide Recchia
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Provided herein are systems and methods allowing for automated sampling and/or analysis of controlled environments, for example, to determine the presence, quantity, size, concentration, viability, species or characteristics of particles within the environment. The described systems and methods may utilize robotics or automation or remove some or all of the collection or analysis steps that are traditionally performed by human operators. The methods and systems described herein are versatile and may be used with known particle sampling and analysis techniques and particle detection devices including, for example, optical particle counters, impingers and impactors.
Claims40
A system for detecting particles in a fluid, the system comprising:
- a particle detection device comprising:
- an inlet for receiving a particle-containing fluid;
- a sampling region for detecting particles in the fluid, the sampling region in fluid communication with the inlet;
- and
- an outlet for discharging the fluid, the outlet in fluid communication with the sampling region;
- a sterilization system for sterilizing all or part of the particle detection device;
- and
- a robotic manipulator system configured to perform at least one of the following steps:
- transport the particle detection device to the sampling location;
- remove the particle detection device from the sampling location;
- and
- regulate a flow of fluid through the particle detection device;
- and
- wherein the robotic manipulator system is configured to transport the particle detection device to the sterilization system.
A method for detecting particles in a fluid, the method comprising the steps of:
- exposing the inlet of a particle detection device to a particle-containing fluid;
- flowing the particle-containing fluid into the inlet;
- directing the fluid through a sampling region of the device;
- discharging the fluid through an outlet of the device;
- wherein the exposing step and/or the flowing step is performed by a robotic manipulator system;
- and
- sterilizing the particle detection device via the robotic manipulator system.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.