U.S. patent application number 12/200729 was filed with the patent office on 2009-03-05 for contactless memory information storage for sample analysis and hand-holdable analyzer for use therewith.
Invention is credited to Michael E. DUGAS, Mark Hamilton, Kenneth P. Martin.
Application Number | 20090057422 12/200729 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39961363 |
Filed Date | 2009-03-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090057422 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DUGAS; Michael E. ; et
al. |
March 5, 2009 |
Contactless Memory Information Storage for Sample Analysis and
Hand-Holdable Analyzer for Use Therewith
Abstract
An analytical instrument stores and/or reads information related
to a sample in a contactless memory, such as a passive or active
radio-frequency identification (RF-ID) tag. The information may
include information about: composition of the sample, one or more
analytical instruments that were used to analyze the sample,
operator(s) who used the instrument(s) to analyze the sample,
user-entered data about the sample (such as an origin of the
sample) or a combination thereof or the like. The memory may be
attached to the sample or to a container, in which the sample is
stored or transported. One or more copies of such a memory may be
loosely stored with the sample, such as with soil in a plastic bag
or a rail car. When the memory is attached to, or stored with, the
sample, the sample becomes essentially self-documenting.
Information about the sample, such as its composition or origin,
may be read by a contactless memory reader, such as an RF-ID
reader.
Inventors: |
DUGAS; Michael E.;
(Londonderry, NH) ; Hamilton; Mark; (Upton,
MA) ; Martin; Kenneth P.; (Watertown, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THERMO FINNIGAN LLC
355 RIVER OAKS PARKWAY
SAN JOSE
CA
95134
US
|
Family ID: |
39961363 |
Appl. No.: |
12/200729 |
Filed: |
August 28, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60968538 |
Aug 28, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
235/494 ;
250/281; 356/301; 356/326; 378/45 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01N 2223/301 20130101;
G01N 2223/0766 20130101; G01N 2035/00841 20130101; G01N 21/65
20130101; G06K 7/0008 20130101; G01N 2035/00861 20130101; G01N
35/00732 20130101; G01N 2035/00326 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
235/494 ;
356/326; 378/45; 250/281; 356/301 |
International
Class: |
G06K 19/06 20060101
G06K019/06; G01J 3/28 20060101 G01J003/28; G01N 23/223 20060101
G01N023/223; H01J 49/26 20060101 H01J049/26; G01J 3/44 20060101
G01J003/44 |
Claims
1. A method for tagging an analyzed sample with characterizing
information, the method comprising: analyzing composition of the
sample; storing information about the composition of the sample in
a contactless memory; and physically associating the memory with
the sample.
2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the physically
associating the memory with the sample comprises attaching the
memory to the sample.
3. A method according to claim 1, wherein the physically
associating the memory with the sample comprises: placing the
sample in a container; and attaching the memory to the
container.
4. A method according to claim 1, wherein the physically
associating the memory with the sample comprises: placing the
sample in a container; and placing the memory in the container.
5. A method according to claim 1, wherein the contactless memory
comprises a radio-frequency identification (RF-ID) tag.
6. A method according to claim 1, wherein the contactless memory
comprises a barcode.
7. A method according to claim 1, wherein the contactless memory
comprises a magnetic stripe.
8. A method according to claim 1, wherein analyzing the composition
of the sample comprises analyzing the composition with an optical
emission spectrometric analyzer.
9. A method according to claim 1, wherein analyzing the composition
of the sample comprises analyzing the composition with an X-ray
fluorescence analyzer.
10. A method according to claim 1, wherein analyzing the
composition of the sample comprises analyzing the composition with
a mass spectrometer.
11. A method according to claim 1, wherein analyzing the
composition of the sample comprises analyzing the composition with
a Raman spectrometer.
12. A method according to claim 1, wherein storing the information
in the contactless memory comprises writing the information to a
passive radio frequency identification (RF-ID) tag.
13. A method according to claim 1, wherein storing the information
in the contactless memory comprises writing the information to an
active radio frequency identification (RF-ID) tag.
14. A method according to claim 1, further comprising storing, in
the memory, information about an analysis device used to analyze
the sample and to produce the information about the composition of
the sample.
15. A method according to claim 1, further comprising storing, in
the memory, information about a user of an analysis device used to
analyze the sample and to produce the information about the
composition of the sample.
16. A method according to claim 15, further comprising: reading an
RF-ID tag associated with the user; and ascertaining the
information about the user from information read from the RF-ID
tag.
17. A method according to claim 1, wherein physically associating
the memory with the sample occurs after analyzing the composition
of the sample.
18. A method according to claim 1, wherein physically associating
the memory with the sample occurs before analyzing the composition
of the sample.
19. A method according to claim 1, further comprising: further
analyzing composition of the sample; storing additional
information, based on the further analysis, about the composition
of the sample in the contactless memory.
20. A method according to claim 19, wherein the analyzing the
composition of the sample and the further analyzing the composition
of the sample are performed by separate analytic devices.
21. A method according to claim 20, wherein each of the separate
analytic devices is capable of detecting a different set of
constituents in the sample.
22. A method according to claim 20, wherein: the analyzing the
composition of the sample comprises analyzing the composition of
the sample with an optical emission spectrometric device; and the
further analyzing the composition of the sample comprises analyzing
the composition of the sample with an X-ray fluorescence
device.
23. An analyzer for analyzing composition of a sample, comprising:
a source for producing an excitation signal that produces a
response signal from the sample; a detector for receiving the
response signal and for producing an output signal; a contactless
memory writer; and a processor coupled to the detector and to the
contactless memory writer and programmed to: process the output
signal from the detector; and control the contactless memory writer
so as to write information related to the composition of the sample
to a contactless memory.
24. An analyzer according to claim 23, further comprising a
contactless memory dispenser.
25. An analyzer according to claim 24, wherein the contactless
memory dispenser comprises: a holder for holding a supply of
contactless memories; and a mechanism for advancing the contactless
memory from the holder to a position where the contactless memory
is written by the contactless memory writer.
26. An analyzer according to claim 24, wherein the processor is
further programmed to control operation of the contactless memory
dispenser so as to dispense the contactless memory before the
contactless memory writer writes the information to the contactless
memory.
27. A method according to claim 24, wherein the contactless memory
comprises a radio-frequency identification (RF-ID) tag.
28. A method according to claim 24, wherein the contactless memory
comprises a barcode.
29. A method according to claim 24, wherein the contactless memory
comprises a magnetic stripe.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 60/968,538, filed Aug. 28, 2007, titled
"Contactless Memory Information Storage for Sample Analysis," the
entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference
herein, for all purposes.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to elemental and chemical
composition analyzers and, more particularly, to such analyzers
that store and/or read information related to analyzed substances,
instrument identification, operating conditions, and/or controlling
parameters in contactless memories that may be physically
associated with analyzed samples.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] Portable and bench-top x-ray fluorescent (XRF), optical
emission spectrographic (OES) and other analytical instruments are
used throughout the world for determining elemental and chemical
compositions of samples, such as metals, soils and plastics. In
some cases, results of these analyses are stored in the instruments
or archived in company databases, etc., sometimes with user-entered
identifying information, such as time and date of analysis,
instrument operator's name, etc.
[0004] In one common application, such instruments are used in
metal recycling facilities to facilitate sorting large and small
pieces of scrap metal. In such facilities, the scrap pieces are
physically sorted and segregated into piles of similarly composed
materials. For example, ferrous metals may be separated from
nonferrous metals. After each piece of metal is analyzed, such as
with a hand-held instrument, the piece is moved to an area of the
recycling facility where similarly composed pieces are
stockpiled.
[0005] Later, if it becomes desirable to more finely sort the
pieces in one stockpile, for example, if it becomes desirable to
sort the ferrous metals according to alloy type, each piece in the
ferrous stockpile must be analyzed again, and the re-analyzed
pieces must be physically moved again to create separate stockpiles
of, for example, cast iron, stainless steel, wrought iron, etc.
Re-analyzing the pieces and then moving the pieces to the separate
stockpiles takes time. Even if the pieces were originally
segregated according to alloy, requiring a separate stockpile for
each material composition requires a large amount of real estate,
because each stockpile must be separated from the other stockpiles
by enough space to operate material moving equipment.
[0006] In other common applications, such instruments are used to
analyze, identify or certify elemental concentrations or chemical
compositions of materials. For example, such instruments are used
to: quantify the amount of gold or other precious metals in
jewelry; identify plastics that have excessive amounts of toxic
elements; or certify soil that has less than a predetermined amount
of a toxic chemical. However, securely conveying certifications or
other information about analyzed materials when the materials
change hands is difficult, particularly if the materials are
conveyed through a long chain of ownership.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] An embodiment of the present invention provides a method for
tagging an analyzed sample with characterizing information. The
method includes analyzing composition of the sample and storing
information about the composition of the sample in a contactless
memory. The method also includes physically associating the memory
with the sample.
[0008] Physically associating the memory with the sample may
include attaching the memory to the sample. Optionally or
alternatively, associating the memory with the sample may include
placing the sample in a container and attaching the memory to the
container and/or placing the memory in the container. Physically
associating the memory with the sample may occur before or after
analyzing the composition of the sample.
[0009] The contactless memory may be a radio-frequency
identification (RF-ID) tag, a barcode, magnetic stripe, another
suitable memory or a combination thereof.
[0010] Analyzing the composition of the sample may include
analyzing the composition with an optical emission spectrometric
analyzer, with an X-ray fluorescence analyzer, with a mass
spectrometer and/or with a Raman spectrometer.
[0011] Storing the information in the contactless memory may
include writing the information to a passive or to an active radio
frequency identification (RF-ID) tag.
[0012] The method may further include storing, in the memory,
information about an analysis device used to analyze the sample and
to produce the information about the composition of the sample
and/or information about a user of an analysis device used to
analyze the sample and to produce the information about the
composition of the sample. The method may also include reading an
RF-ID tag associated with the user and ascertaining the information
about the user from information read from the RF-ID tag.
[0013] The method may also include further analyzing composition of
the sample and storing additional information, based on the further
analysis, about the composition of the sample in the contactless
memory. Analyzing the composition of the sample and the further
analyzing the composition of the sample may be performed by
separate analytic devices. Each of the separate analytic devices
may be capable of detecting a different set of constituents in the
sample. Analyzing the composition of the sample may include
analyzing the composition of the sample with an optical emission
spectrometric device and further analyzing the composition of the
sample may include analyzing the composition of the sample with an
X-ray fluorescence device.
[0014] Yet another embodiment of the present invention provides an
analyzer for analyzing composition of a sample. The analyzer
includes a source for producing an excitation signal that produces
a response signal from the sample and a detector for receiving the
response signal and for producing an output signal. The analyzer
also includes a contactless memory writer and a processor. The
processor is coupled to the detector and to the contactless memory
writer. The processor is programmed to process the output signal
from the detector. The processor is also programmed to control the
contactless memory writer so as to write information related to the
composition of the sample to a contactless memory.
[0015] The analyzer may include a contactless memory dispenser. The
contactless memory dispenser may include a holder for holding a
supply of contactless memories and a mechanism for advancing the
contactless memory from the holder to a position where the
contactless memory is written by the contactless memory writer.
[0016] The processor may be further programmed to control operation
of the contactless memory dispenser so as to dispense the
contactless memory before the contactless memory writer writes the
information to the contactless memory.
[0017] The contactless memory may include a radio-frequency
identification (RF-ID) tag, a barcode and/or a magnetic stripe.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The invention will be more fully understood by referring to
the following Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments in
conjunction with the attached Drawings, of which:
[0019] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary sample with a
radio-frequency identification (RF-ID) tag attached thereto,
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a fob that includes an RF-ID
tag, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 3 is a plan view of a bag, with an RF-ID tag attached
thereto, that may be used for loose and other types of samples,
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an x-ray fluorescence (XRF)
instrument that includes an RF-ID reader, writer or reader/writer,
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an optical emission
spectroscopy (OES) instrument that includes an RF-ID reader, writer
or reader/writer, according to one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an analytical instrument
that includes an RF-ID tag dispenser spindle, according to one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the instrument of FIG. 6
with a spool of RF-ID tags mounted thereon, according to one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternative RF-ID tag
encoder-dispenser, according to one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary context in
which an instrument may prevent unauthorized use, or control one or
more aspects of its operation, in accordance with embodiments of
the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an instrument and a docking
station ("stand"), to which the instrument may be docked, according
to embodiments of the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating operations performed to
store information related to an analyzed sample, according to one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another stand and an
instrument docked to the stand;
[0031] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the stand of FIG. 12 with
its cover closed; and
[0032] FIG. 14 another perspective view of the stand of FIG. 12
from a lower viewpoint than that provided in FIGS. 12 and 13.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
Description
[0033] The contents of US Provisional Patent Application No.
60/891,408, titled "Hand-Held, Self-Contained Optical Emission
Spectroscopy (OES) Analyzer," filed Feb. 23, 2007, and 60/889,465,
titled "Small Spot X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analyzer," filed Feb.
12, 2007, are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
Storing Analytical Information in Association with an Analyzed
Sample
[0034] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention,
methods and apparatus are disclosed for storing information related
to an analyzed substance (also referred to as a "sample" or,
equivalently, as an "analyte"), such as a metal, soil, a plastic or
a composite. The information may be stored in a contactless memory.
The term "contactless memory," as used herein, means that the
memory, be it read-only or read/write, may be read without
electrical contact with the memory and in some embodiments may be
written without contact. Exemplary contactless memories include,
without limitation: passive or active radio-frequency
identification (RF-ID) tags, printed or rewriteable barcodes and
magnetic stripes. Although these exemplary contactless memories are
discussed and may be used on various embodiments, not all
contactless memories are equivalent or necessarily interchangeable.
Some contactless memories may be written, whereas other contactless
memories are read-only devices. The amount of data that may be
stored in a contactless memory may vary with the technology
used.
[0035] The information about the analyzed sample may include
information about: composition of the sample, one or more
analytical instruments that were used to analyze the sample,
operator(s) who used the instrument(s) to analyze the sample,
user-entered data about the sample (such as an origin of the
sample) or a combination thereof or the like. The information may
be stored in the memory when the sample is analyzed. Optionally,
additional information may be added to the memory if the sample is
subsequently analyzed again, such as by a second instrument that is
sensitive to a different set of constituents or that uses a
different analytical protocol. The memory may be attached to the
sample or to a container, such as a plastic bag, a box or a rail
car, in which the sample is stored or transported. Optionally or
alternatively, one or more copies of such a memory may be loosely
stored with the sample, such as with soil in a plastic bag or in a
rail car.
[0036] The memory(ies) may be added to the sample at about the same
time that the sample is analyzed and for the purpose of storing the
above-described information. However, a memory with sufficient
storage capacity may be used to also store other information, such
as information about a chain of custody of the sample.
Alternatively, a memory that is already associated with the sample
may be used for storing the information about the sample's
composition, etc. For example, such a memory may have been included
with the sample by a manufacturer or another entity in the sample's
supply chain for inventory control or another purpose. Thus, the
composition information may be able to "piggyback" on, or replace
data in, an existing memory. If the manufacturer or other entity in
the sample's supply chain stored information about the composition
of the sample at the time the sample was manufactured or
subsequently, the analytical instrument may verify or refute this
compositional information. For example, the sample may have
undergone a chemical change since its manufacture due to time,
exposure to radiation, contamination or for some other reason.
[0037] A sample may be any size. For example, a sample may be
small, such as on the order of several centimeters or less in
diameter. A sample may be a representative piece cut or otherwise
separated from a larger item or volume of material. On the other
hand, a sample may be large. The term "sample" also encompasses an
entire item, only a portion of which is analyzed, without cutting
or separating the analyzed portion from the rest of the item. For
example, a piece of scrap metal in a metal recycling facility may
be many meters long, but only one or several portions of the scrap
metal may be analyzed.
[0038] In some cases, only one portion of a sample is analyzed. In
other cases, more than one portion of a sample is analyzed, such as
to ascertain uniformity of composition of the sample. Information
about several (possibly physically spaced-apart) measurements taken
on a single sample may be stored individually, or information
representing an average or a composite of several individual
measurements may be stored in the memory.
[0039] When the memory is attached to, or stored with, the sample,
the sample becomes essentially self-documenting. Information about
the sample, such as its composition or origin, may be read by a
contactless memory reader, such as an RF-ID reader. Thus, many
different types of tagged samples may be stockpiled or shipped
together. The samples may subsequently be sorted or segregated by
reading the information stored in the samples' memories, without
re-analyzing the compositions of the samples. Thus, for example, a
recycling facility need not separately stockpile each type of
material. Instead, after each item has been analyzed and tagged
with a memory, a portable hand-held RF-ID reader may be used to
manually sort the samples, or an automatic sorter may use an RF-ID
reader. In the latter case, the RF-ID reader may be attached to an
automatic sorter, such as a conveyor belt-driven sorter. As each
sample passes near the RF-ID reader, the automatic sorter may
interrogate the memory traveling with, and therefore associated
with, the sample and divert the sample to a selected one of several
destinations, based on information read from the memory.
[0040] Samples' information travels with the samples. An
unsegregated mixture of sample types may be transported together
and later sorted and re-sorted as needed, based on the information
in their respective memories. For example, samples may be sorted
according to iron content for one purpose. Some high iron content
samples may be removed, and the remaining samples may be mixed back
together, moved if necessary, and then sorted again, this time
according to sulfur content or state of origin or some other
criterion. Thus, the samples need not be physically segregated
after their initial analyses. Furthermore, at the time of the
initial analyses, no determination needs to be made regarding on
what basis the samples should be segregated; that determination may
be made and remade later.
[0041] Using the disclosed systems and methods, the samples'
information is much less likely to be lost than if the information
were stored in a paper-based or computerized system, because each
sample's information remains physically proximate the sample. Once
the sample is analyzed, information about the sample may be
obtained quickly and at a location of the sample, without resorting
to a central paper file or computer system; the sample's
information may be retrieved quickly by simply reading the memory
with a portable or non-portable RF-ID reader. Furthermore, when
possession of a sample is transferred from one organization to
another organization, this information is automatically transferred
to the other organization, along with the sample. No paper or
electronic data transfer is necessary.
[0042] The information in the memory may be encrypted to prevent
unauthorized reading of the information. Furthermore, encrypting
the information, or storing a digital signature, in the memory may
provide a subsequent user of the information with a level of
confidence in the accuracy of the information, because the user may
ascertain the identity of the person, organization and/or
instrument who or that analyzed the sample. Knowledge of this/these
identity(ies) enables a user to evaluate the reliability of the
compositional or other information in the memory. If an analyzing
organization or person is certified to perform a particular type of
analysis, and the analytical information in the memory is signed
with a digital signature associated with the organization's or
person's certificate, a subsequent user of the information may be
confident that the analysis was performed by a certified
organization or person. In addition, each person or organization
who or that handles a sample may add his/her/its identity (such as
in the form of a digital signature) to the memory, thus providing a
secure chain of custody to the sample.
[0043] In addition to storing information about the composition of
the sample, the instrument may store additional or other
information in the contactless memory, including, without
limitation: the type of instrument(s) (e.g., XRF, OES, Raman
spectrometer, mass spectrometer, etc.) used to analyze the sample;
a range or list of elements, alloys, etc. each analyzing instrument
is capable of detecting; minimum quantities or concentrations of
the elements, alloys, etc., each analyzing instrument is capable of
detecting; a spectral range or list of wavelengths or minimum
signal levels each analyzing instrument is capable to detecting; a
serial number of each analyzing instrument; or number and
location(s) of portions of the sample that were analyzed.
Preventing Unauthorized Use of an Analytical Instrument
[0044] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention,
methods and apparatus are disclosed for preventing unauthorized
persons from operating analytical instruments, such as XRF and OES
instruments. Use of some of these instruments by unqualified
persons can be dangerous. For example, a typical XRF analyzer
produces a potentially dangerous x-ray beam, and a common type of
OES instrument produces a high-voltage discharge.
[0045] An analytical instrument may include a contactless memory
reader, such as an RF-ID reader. Each person authorized to use the
instrument may carry a contactless memory, such as an RF-ID tag in
an identification (ID) badge. The instrument may have one or more
controlled aspects. Examples of controlled aspects include: taking
a reading; activating an x-ray beam, a laser beam or a spark
generator; and any aspect of the instrument that may be dangerous
or expensive to activate or for some other reason should be
performed only by an authorized person or under controlled
circumstances. Prior to activating a controlled aspect of the
instrument, the instrument scans for a contactless memory within
the vicinity of the instrument. If the instrument reads a
contactless memory that contains information identifying an
authorized person, the instrument enables the controlled aspect of
the instrument. On the other hand, if the instrument does not
detect an authorizing contactless memory, the instrument does not
enable the controlled aspect of the instrument. Instead, the
instrument may display an error message on a screen, provide some
other indication or simply remain in its status quo.
[0046] The instrument may scan for an authorizing contactless
memory prior to each time the instrument enables the controlled
aspect of the instrument. Optionally or alternatively, the
instrument may scan for the authorizing contactless memory: once
upon startup; periodically; after a predetermined number of
analyses; after a predetermined amount of time during which the
instrument goes unused; or according to another scheme.
Automatically Setting Operating Parameters of an Analytical
Instrument
[0047] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention,
methods and apparatus are disclosed for automatically setting or
changing operational parameters of an analytical instrument. Some
hand-held analytical instruments may be used with optional stands
or docking stations (collectively hereinafter referred to as
"stands"). When such an instrument is mounted in a stand, the stand
may provide electrical power, cooling, gas to purge air from an
analytical gap within the instrument and/or other supplies, a
closeable shielded cover or services to the instrument or to the
operator. Under these circumstances, the instrument may be capable
of operating differently than if the instrument were not connected
to the stand. For example, the external power supply and cooling
provided by the stand may enable the instrument to operate an x-ray
source at a higher power level than if the instrument were powered
and cooled solely by the instrument's internal battery. Operating
differently than if the instrument were not connected to a stand is
referred to herein as "operating in an enhanced mode." Under some
circumstances, operating the x-ray source at a higher power may be
dangerous, absent shielding to protect an operator or others. The
stand may provide a closeable shielded cover, and the instrument
may determine whether the cover is open or closed and enable the
x-ray source only if the cover is closed.
[0048] A stand may contain a contactless memory, such as an RF-ID
tag. The memory may store information that indicates the memory is
associated with a stand. This indication may imply a set of one or
more supplies and/or services the stand is capable of providing to
an instrument docked with the stand. For example, the memory may
store a model number of the stand, and each stand model may be
known to provide a known set of supplies and/or services.
Optionally, the memory may include information that identifies the
supplies and/or services the stand is capable of providing.
[0049] An instrument may include a contactless memory reader, such
as an RF-ID reader. If the instrument is mounted in a stand and the
stand includes a contactless memory, the instrument reads the
stand's contactless memory and automatically sets operational
parameters of the instrument in accordance with supplies and/or
services the stand is capable of providing. Thus, the instrument
may automatically operate in an enhanced mode as a result of being
mounted in the stand. Optionally, before, during or after taking
each measurement, the instrument may store information in a
contactless memory associated with the sample analyzed by the
instrument to indicate the mode (such as enhanced or normal) in
which the instrument was operating while the sample was analyzed.
Optionally or alternatively, the instrument may store information
in the sample's memory to indicate one or more specific parameters
(such as x-ray power level or arc/spark voltage or current
profile), under which the instrument operated when the sample was
analyzed.
[0050] Optionally, the instrument may automatically determine one
or more operating parameters (such as maximum x-ray beam power)
based on information in an operator's contactless memory. For
example, some operators may be authorized to operate an XRF
analyzer at a higher x-ray beam power than other, less qualified,
operators.
[0051] An instrument may use information from a combination of
contactless memories to determine one or more operating parameters.
For example, an instrument may read from a memory in a stand and
from a memory in an operator's ID badge to determine one or more
operating parameters. In this case, the instrument may operate in
an enhanced mode, if the stand supports such a mode and the
operator is authorized to operate the instrument in such a
mode.
[0052] Optionally or alternatively, the instrument includes a
contactless memory that stores information, such as a model number,
indicating that the memory is associated with an instrument. The
information may, but need not, include a list of characteristics of
the instrument, such as a type of source (e.g., x-ray, laser,
spark, etc.) used by the instrument to produce an excitation
signal. The information may include operational parameters, such as
power levels, at which the instrument is capable of operating if
the instrument were to be provided with external electrical power,
cooling, etc. The information may include a list of supplies and/or
services that the instrument requires before operating in the
enhanced mode. The information may also include a quantification of
the supplies and/or services that the instrument requires to
operate in the enhanced mode. For example, the information may
indicate that the instrument requires 7 VDC at 4.0 amps of
electrical power and 100 BTU/hour of cooling in order to operate
the instrument's x-ray source at a high power level.
[0053] A stand may include a contactless memory reader, such as an
RF-ID reader. If an instrument with a contactless memory that
stores information about the instrument is mounted in a stand with
a contactless memory reader, the stand may ascertain a set of
supplies and/or services the stand is to supply to the instrument
in order to enable the instrument to operate in an enhanced mode.
Thus, the stand need not necessarily provide supplies and/or
services that the instrument does not need.
[0054] Optionally, the stand may modify contents of a contactless
memory associated with the stand to indicate to the instrument when
the stand is prepared to supply the required supplies and/or
services or if a problem develops within the stand that prevents
the stand from providing a supply or service that the instrument
requires or requested. Similarly, the instrument may modify
contents of a contactless memory associated with the instrument to
indicate status information to the stand, such as if additional
cooling is required or the instrument is being shut down and
therefore no longer needs the supplies and/or services provided by
the stand. Thus, the stand and the instrument may communicate with
each other by modifying contents of their respective contactless
memories.
Hand-Held Analyzer with RF-ID Reader and/or Writer
[0055] RF-ID tags, in accordance with the present disclosure, can
take many forms. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary
sample 100 with an RF-ID tag 102 attached thereto, according to one
embodiment of the present invention. The RF-ID tag 102 may be a
passive or an active RF-ID tag. The RF-ID tag 102 may be attached
to the sample 100 before, during or after analysis by an
instrument. As previously noted, the RF-ID tag 102 may have been
attached to the sample 100 much earlier than the analysis. For
example, the RF-ID tag 102 may have been attached to the sample 100
by a manufacturer of the sample 100. Optionally, the RF-ID tag 102
may include human-readable indicia, such as text, and/or
computer-readable indicia, such as a barcode.
[0056] In some instances, it may be preferable to removably attach
an RF-ID tag to a sample or to attach an RF-ID tag to a loop or a
hole in the sample. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a fob 200 that
includes an RF-ID tag (shown in phantom at 202). The fob 200
includes a "key ring" 204 for attachment to a sample (not shown).
Alternatively, a carabiner or other releasable or nonreleasable
attachment mechanism may be used.
[0057] It may not be practical to attach RF-ID tags some types of
samples, such as particularly small samples or samples of loose
material, such as soil. FIG. 3 is a plan view of a bag 300, with an
RF-ID tag 302 attached thereto, that may be used for these and
other types of samples. The bag 300 may be made of plastic or
another suitable material for storing the sample. The bag 300 shown
in FIG. 3 includes a zipper 304, so the bag 300 may be opened and
resealed multiple times. However, a one-time sealing mechanism (not
shown) that, once sealed, cannot be readily opened may be used.
[0058] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an XRF instrument 400 that
includes an RF-ID writer 402, including a loop antenna 404,
according to one embodiment of the present invention. A processor
403 (with an associated memory 405 for storing instructions and
data for the processor 403) is coupled to the RF-ID writer 402 to
control operation of the RF-ID writer 402. The RF-ID writer 402 may
include an RF-ID writer or an RF-ID reader/writer housed in an
integrated circuit. For example, an appropriate device is available
from Texas Instruments, Dallas, Tex. under the part number TRF7960
or TRF7961.
[0059] The XRF instrument 400 may also include a touch-sensitive
display screen 406 and user interface buttons 408, by which an
operator may interact with the instrument 400, and a snout 410. If
the snout 410 is metal, the antenna 404 may be oriented differently
or may be located elsewhere in the instrument 400, such as in the
handle 413 or in the rear 415 of the instrument, so the antenna 404
is not proximate the snout 410. The instrument 400 may include a
rechargeable battery 411 for powering components of the instrument
400. In operation, the operator places a front portion 412 of the
snout 410 against a sample. The instrument 400 may include a
spring-loaded interlock switch 414, which must be fully depressed
against the sample before the instrument 400 will produce an x-ray
beam. The operator actuates the instrument 400 by depressing a
trigger 416. The instrument 400 includes a source (not shown) of
x-rays, such as an x-ray tube.
[0060] Upon actuation, the instrument 400 activates the x-ray
source and emits an x-ray beam excitation signal through a window
418. The x-ray beam strikes the sample and excites a portion of the
sample, thereby producing an XRF response signal from the sample.
The response signal enters the instrument 400 via the window 418
and is detected by a detector (not shown) in the instrument 400.
The processor (not shown) is also coupled to the detector and is
programmed by instructions stored in a memory to control the x-ray
source and to process an output signal from the detector.
[0061] The processor displays information, such as a chemical
composition of the sample or an alloy name or identifier deduced
from the chemical composition, on the screen 406. Additional
information about the structure and operation of the instrument 400
is available in the above-referenced U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/889,465, titled "Small Spot X-Ray Fluorescence
(XRF) Analyzer," although not all aspects of the small spot XRF
analyzer disclosed in the referenced provisional patent application
are required in embodiments of the present invention.
[0062] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an OES instrument 500 that
includes a processor (not shown) and an associated memory (not
shown) for controlling operation of the instrument 500, as with the
XRF instrument 400 described above with respect to FIG. 4. The OES
instrument 500 (FIG. 5) includes an RF-ID writer 502, including a
loop antenna 504, according to one embodiment of the present
invention. The RF-ID writer 502 may include an RF-ID writer or an
RF-ID reader/writer housed in an integrated circuit. For example,
an appropriate device is available from Texas Instruments, Dallas,
Tex. under the part number TRF7960 or TRF7961. The processor is
coupled to the RF-ID writer 502 to control operation of the RF-ID
writer 502.
[0063] The OES instrument 500 also includes a touch-sensitive
screen 506 and user interface buttons 508, by which an operator may
interact with the instrument 500, a snout 510 and an electrode 512
within a hollow portion 514 of the snout 510. As discussed above,
with respect to FIG. 4, if the snout 510 is metal, the antenna 504
may be oriented differently or may be located elsewhere in the
instrument 500. The instrument 500 may include a rechargeable
battery 515 for powering components of the instrument 500. In
operation, the operator places a front portion 516 of the snout 510
against a sample. The instrument 500 may purge air from the hollow
portion 514 by introducing a gas, such as helium, through a port
518 into the hollow portion 514. The operator actuates the
instrument 500 by depressing a trigger 520. The instrument 500
includes a spark generator (not shown) coupled to the electrode
512.
[0064] Upon actuation, the instrument 500 generates an excitation
signal by activating the spark generator and thereby causing an
arc/spark from the electrode 512 to the sample. The arc/spark
excites a portion of the sample, thereby producing an OES response
signal from the sample. The response signal enters the instrument
500 via the port 518 and is directed by one or more mirrors (not
shown) to a spectrometer, a portion of which is shown at 522. The
spectrometer 522 acts as a detector. The spectrometer 522 is
coupled to the processor (not shown), which is programmed by
instructions stored in a memory to control the spark generator and
to process the output signal from the spectrometer 522.
[0065] The processor displays information, such as a chemical
composition of the sample or an alloy name or identifier deduced
from the chemical composition, on the screen 506. Additional
information about the structure and operation of the instrument 500
is available in the above-referenced U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/891,408, titled "Hand-Held, Self-Contained
Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES) Analyzer," although not all
aspects of the OES analyzer disclosed in the referenced provisional
patent application are required in embodiments of the present
invention.
[0066] Although an XRF instrument 400 and an OES instrument 500
have been described, embodiments of the present invention may
include or be used with other types of analyzers, such as
laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), glow discharge (GD)
analyzers, Raman spectrometers, mass spectrometers, etc. The
descriptions of uses with XRF or OES instruments 400 or 500 are,
therefore, merely exemplary and not limiting.
[0067] As noted, storing information related to an analyzed sample
(such as a chemical composition of the sample or information about
the sample's origin), an instrument used to analyze the sample or
an operator of the instrument can be very useful. The RF-ID writer
402 or 502 of the XRF instrument 400 of FIG. 4 or the OES
instrument 500 of FIG. 5 or a similar RF-ID writer in another
portable or non-portable instrument may be used to store this type
of information in a contactless memory, such as the RF-ID tags 102,
202 or 302 shown in FIGS. 1-3. The RF-ID tags 102, 202 or 302 may
be written before, during or after the analysis by the instrument.
One of the RF-ID tags 102, 202 or 302 may be written by bringing a
portion of the instrument 400 or 500 that contains the loop antenna
404 or 504 proximate the RF-ID tag and operating the RF-ID writer
402 or 502.
[0068] The RF-ID tag writer 402 or 502 may scan for RF-ID tags and,
therefore, automatically detect the presence of an RF-ID tag within
range and, thereafter, automatically write the analytical
information, etc. to the RF-ID tag. Alternatively or optionally, an
operator may use the user interface buttons 408 or 508 or the
touch-sensitive screen 406 or 506 to command the RF-ID writer 402
or 502 to scan for or write the RF-ID tag.
[0069] If the RF-ID tag 102, 202 or 302 already contains, or may
already contain, information that should be preserved, the
instrument 400 or 500 may include an RF-ID reader/writer (or an
RF-ID reader and a separate RF-ID writer) in place of the RF-ID
writer 402 or 502. (In other respects, FIGS. 4 and 5 may be used to
describe instruments with RF-ID reader/writers or both readers and
separate writers, and reference numerals 402 and 502 will be used
to also represent such RF-ID readers and/or writers.) An instrument
400 or 500 may interrogate the RF-ID tag 102, 202 or 302 to read
data stored therein. Then, when the instrument 400 or 500 writes
new analytical information to the memory, the RF-ID writer or
reader/writer 402 or 502 may write to a location in the memory so
as to avoid overwriting the previously stored information.
Alternatively or optionally, the writer or reader/writer 402 or 502
may re-write the previously stored information in the same location
in the memory as the information was previously stored or in a
different location.
[0070] In some instances, a user may have a supply of loose RF-ID
tags that may be attached to samples before or after the RF-ID tags
are written to. In other instances, the samples already have RF-ID
tags, such as those attached by manufacturers. In yet other
instances, it may be convenient for the instrument 400 or 500 to
dispense RF-ID tags. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an instrument
600 that includes a dispenser spindle 602, on which a spool (not
shown) of RF-ID tags may be mounted. (Although an OES instrument
600 is shown in FIG. 6, an RF-ID tag dispenser, as described
herein, may be included in an XRF or other type of instrument.) The
instrument 600 includes a feed slot 604 and a dispensing slot 606
in the housing of the instrument 600.
[0071] As shown in FIG. 7, a spool 700 of RF-ID tags may be mounted
on the spindle 602. The spindle 700 contains a roll of backing tape
702, on which a series of RF-ID tags 704, 706, 708, etc. is
attached. The backing tape 702 is fed into the feed slot 604. The
backing tape 702 loops around a second spindle 712 and then exits
the housing via the dispensing slot 606. A pinch roller (not shown)
and drive motor (not shown) operate under control of the processor
to advance the backing tape 702 as needed.
[0072] The loop of backing tape 702 around the second spindle 712
brings the backing tape 702 and, therefore, each individual RF-ID
tag attached to the backing tape 702 proximate the loop antenna 716
to facilitate writing one RF-ID tag at a time. The RF-ID tags may
be spaced along the backing tape 702 such that only one of the
RF-ID tags on the backing tape 702 is within range of the loop
antenna 716 at one time. Optionally, RF shielding (not shown) may
be used to prevent other RF-ID tags on the backing tape 702 from
receiving sufficient radiation from the loop antenna 716 to
activate the RF-ID tags.
[0073] Once an RF-ID tag has been written to by the instrument 600
and the RF-ID tag exits the instrument 600 via the dispensing slot
606, the RF-ID tag may be removed from the backing tape 702 and
attached to the sample. Optionally, before dispensing the RF-ID
tag, the instrument may attempt to read the RF-ID tag to ensure it
is readable and the information was correctly stored in the
memory.
[0074] Each RF-ID tag may have an adhesive backing to facilitate
attaching the RF-ID tag to the sample. Optionally or alternatively,
a user may apply an adhesive to each RF-ID tag to attach the RF-ID
tag to the sample, or the user may attach the RF-ID tag to the
sample by covering the RF-ID tag with an adhesive tape or by any
other suitable mechanism.
[0075] Alternatively or optionally, as shown in FIG. 4, an
instrument 400 may include a depression 420 in the instrument's
housing, into which an individual RF-ID tag 422 may be placed (as
indicated by an arrow 424) while the RF-ID writer 402 interrogates
and/or writes to the RF-ID tag. Alternatively or optionally, the
instrument housing may have indicia to indicate where the RF-ID tag
422 should be held while the RF-ID tag is written. As discussed
above, the RF-ID tag 422 may have an adhesive backing to facilitate
attaching the RF-ID tag to a sample.
[0076] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternative RF-ID tag
encoder-dispenser 800, according to one embodiment of the present
invention. The RF-ID tag encoder-dispenser 800 is a stand-alone
unit. A hand-held instrument 400 or 500 or a non-portable
instrument (not shown) may send information and commands to the tag
encoder-dispenser 800 to cause the tag encoder-dispenser 800 to
encode an RF-ID tag and dispense the tag. The instrument may
communicate with the encoder-dispenser 800 via a wireless link,
such as an infrared or a Bluetooth link, or any other suitable
wired or wireless link. The RF-ID tag encoder-dispenser 800 is
shown dispensing RF-ID tags 802, 804 and 806 on a backing tape 808.
A suitable RF-ID tag encoder-dispenser is available from Weber
Marking Systems, Inc., Arlington Heights, Ill., under the
designation R4Mplus, R110XiIIIPlus or R170XiIIIPlus.
[0077] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary context in
which an instrument 900 may prevent unauthorized use, or control
one or more aspects of its operation, in accordance with
embodiments of the present invention. The instrument 900 is shown
being used by an operator 902 to test a sample 904. The operator
902 wears an identification (ID) badge 906, which includes an RF-ID
tag (shown in phantom at 908). The instrument 900 includes an RF-ID
reader (not shown, but similar to the RF-ID tag reader 402 or 502,
including loop antenna 404 or 504, shown in FIG. 4 or 5). A
suitable RF-ID reader is available from SkyeTek, Inc., Westminster,
Colo., under the designation SkyeModule M1-mini.
[0078] As noted, the instrument 900 may have one or more controlled
aspects. Prior to activating a controlled aspect of the instrument,
or prior to operating an aspect of the instrument in a
predetermined mode, the instrument scans for a contactless memory,
such as the RF-ID tag 908 in the operator's ID badge 906, within
range of the instrument. If the instrument reads a contactless
memory that contains information identifying an authorized person,
the instrument enables the controlled aspect of the instrument or
operates the aspect of the instrument in the predetermined mode.
Thus, for example, the instrument 900 may enable a spark generator
only if an authorized operator is using the instrument, or the
instrument may determine a maximum x-ray beam power, based on
information in the operator's RF-ID tag 908.
[0079] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an instrument 1000 attached
("docked" or, equivalently, "mounted") to a stand 1002. The stand
1002 may include a drawer 1004 with a depression or a bore 1006,
into which a sample 1008 may be inserted. When the drawer 1004 is
closed, a sample within the depression or bore 1006 is positioned
adjacent the instrument 1000 for analysis thereby. The stand 1002
includes a receiver 1010, into which a portion of the instrument
1000 is inserted. The receiver 1010 may include one or more latches
(one visible at 1011) to secure the instrument 1000 to the stand
1002. The instrument 1000 may include one or more grooves, notches,
holes, bosses, studs or other features that cooperate with the
latches to secure the instrument 1000 to the stand 1002. Optionally
or alternatively, the instrument 1000 may be held in the receiver
1010 by another type of releasable mechanism, such as a
spring-loaded projection that mates with a detent, magnets,
friction or merely by gravity. An optional bracket 1012 supports a
portion of the weight of the instrument 1000 and stabilizes the
instrument 1000.
[0080] As noted, the stand 1002 may provide one or more supplies or
services to the instrument 1000. Some or all of these supplies or
services may be provided via electrical, fluid, mechanical, heat
transfer or other suitable connectors on the stand 1002 and
corresponding connectors on the instrument 1000 that mate with each
other when the instrument 1000 is docked in the stand 1002. These
connectors may be located in any suitable location on the
instrument 1000 and on the stand 1002. For example, some or all of
these connectors may be located on the snout 410 (FIG. 4) or 510
(FIG. 5) of the instrument 1000. Such snout-located connectors may
mate with corresponding connectors located within the receiver
1010. Optionally or alternatively, supplies or services, such as
cooling, may be provided via physical contact or proximity between
the instrument 1000 and the stand 1002.
[0081] Optionally or alternatively, the stand 1002 may be connected
to the instrument 1000 via a cable 1014 extending to a "dummy"
battery 1016, which attaches to the instrument 1000 in the same way
the rechargeable battery 411 or 515 (FIG. 4 or 5) attaches to the
instrument 1000. The cable 1014 may include electrical connections,
such as a power supply or a thermoelectric (TE) cooling circuit.
The cable 1014 may also include fluid communication channels, such
as for a cooling fluid or a purge gas.
[0082] In one embodiment, an inside surface (not visible) of the
receiver 1010 is cooled by the stand 1002, so the docked instrument
1000 may operate at a higher power level and/or for a longer time
than if the instrument 1000 were being operated separate from the
stand 1002. The snout 410 or 510 may contact the cooled surface of
the receiver 1010 to conduct heat from the instrument 1000.
[0083] The receiver surface may be cooled by forced air provided by
a fan (not visible), by another circulating fluid that flows
through a refrigeration unit (not visible) or a heat sink (not
shown), by TE cooling or by any other suitable mechanism. The stand
1002 may introduce forced cooling air into the instrument 1000 to
cool components therein. If the instrument 1000 utilizes TE
cooling, such as to cool an optical sensor, the stand 1002 may
include a hot side of the TE heat exchanger, and the cold side of
the TE heat exchanger in the instrument 1000 may be electrically
connected to the hot side of the heat exchanger. The stand 1002 may
include an air intake and/or exhaust port 1018 that is used in
conjunction with the stand's cooling mechanism.
[0084] As noted, the instrument 1000 may automatically set or
change operational parameters as a result of being docked in the
stand 1002. The stand 1002 may include an RF-ID tag 1020, which the
instrument 1000 may interrogate using the RF-ID reader 402 or 502
(FIG. 4 or 5). Thus, for example, by reading the RF-ID tag 1020 in
the stand 1002, the instrument 1000 may ascertain the supplies
and/or services the stand 1002 is capable of providing.
[0085] Also as noted, the instrument 1000 may include an RF-ID tag
1026, which the stand 1002 may interrogate using an RF-ID reader
1022, including a loop antenna 1024. Thus, for example, by reading
the RF-ID tag 1026 in the instrument 1000, the stand 1002 may
ascertain operational parameters of the instrument 1000 or services
or supplies that the instrument 1000 may require.
[0086] In some cases, an operator or others should be protected
from x-rays, laser beams, sparks or other hazards produced by an
analytical instrument or by a by-product of, or possible effect
(such as an explosion) from, an analysis performed by the
instrument. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another stand 1200, on
which an analytical instrument 1000 is detachably docked. The stand
1200 includes a hinged, recloseable cover 1204, which is suitably
shielded to protect an operator or others. The analytical
instrument 1000 is docket to the stand 1200 from below, as best
shown in FIG. 14. The analytical instrument 1000 docks in a
receiver 1402 and is secured to the stand 1200 by a releasable
latch (one of which is visible at 1404) or another suitable
mechanism, examples of which were discussed above, with respect to
FIG. 10.
[0087] Returning to FIG. 12, the cover 1204 shielding may include a
lead or other suitable material liner 1206, or the cover 1204 may
be made of a suitably shielding material. Similarly, the stand 1200
includes a lead or other suitable material table 1208, or the base
1210 of the stand 1200 is made of a suitable shielding material.
When the cover 1204 is open, the operator may place a sample on the
table 1208 (or directly on the base 1210, if no separate table 1208
is provided) for analysis by the analytical instrument 1000. The
table 1208 and the base 1210 include openings 1212, through which
the analytical instrument 1000 has access to the sample.
[0088] When the cover 1204 is closed, as shown in FIG. 13, the
cover liner 1206 and the table 1208 and/or the cover 1204 and the
base 1210 shield the operator and others from hazards associated
with analyzing the sample by the analytical instrument 1000.
[0089] For convenience, the stand 1200 may include foldable legs
1214. The legs 1214 may be folded by pivoting the legs 1214 about
hinged points 1216 to make the stand more compact for storage or
transport. A gas-filled shock absorber 1218 maintains the legs 1214
in either a folded or extended position.
[0090] The stand 1200 may include a latch 1220 that mates with a
catch 1222. The latch 1220 may be locked or unlocked by a manual
switch 1224 on a front panel 1226 of the stand 1200. The front
panel 1226 may also include indicator lights, switches and other
controls 1228, some or all of which may be electrically coupled to
the analytical instrument 1200. The analytical instrument 1200 may
be electrically and otherwise coupled to the stand 1200, as
described above.
[0091] In one embodiment, the stand 1200 includes an RF-ID tag 1400
(FIG. 14). The analytical instrument 1000 reads the RF-ID tag 1400
to ascertain that the analytical instrument 1000 is docked with a
stand having a cover 1204 that may be opened. The cover 1204
includes magnets 1230 (FIG. 12), and the base 1210 includes
Hall-effect sensors 1232, positioned such that, when the cover 1204
is closed, the magnets 1230 are proximate the Hall-effect sensors
1232. The Hall-effect sensors 1230 are coupled to the analytical
instrument 1000, so the instrument 1000 can determine whether the
cover 1204 is open or closed. Optionally or alternatively,
electrical contacts, miniature switches, pressure sensors or other
sensors may be used to determine whether the cover 1204 is open or
closed. The analytical instrument 1200 may be electrically and
otherwise coupled to the Hall-effect sensors 1232, as described
above.
[0092] When the analytical instrument 1000 determines that it is
docked to the stand 1200 (by reading the RF-ID tag 1400), and that
the cover 1204 is closed, the instrument 1000 enables operation of
its x-ray tube, spark generator, laser or other source of
penetrating radiation at a power level that may not be suitable,
absent the shielding provided by the cover 1204 and other parts of
the stand 1200. Thus, the magnets 1230, the Hall-effect sensors
1232 and the processor in the analytical instrument 1000 form an
interlock to prevent unsafe operation of the analytical instrument
1000. When the analytical instrument 1000 does not detect the RF-ID
tag 1400, i.e., when the instrument 1000 is not docked in the stand
1200, the processor in the analytical instrument 1000 enables
operation of the x-ray tube, spark generator, laser, etc. in a
different mode, i.e., at a lower power level than when the
instrument 1000 is docked with the stand 1200 and the cover 1204 is
closed.
[0093] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating operations performed to
store information related to an analyzed sample. At 1100,
composition of the sample is analyzed. At 1102, the sample is
optionally stored in a container. At 1104, information about the
composition of the sample is stored in a contactless memory. At
1106, the contactless memory is attached to the sample or to the
container, or the contactless memory is stored in the container
along with the sample.
[0094] Some embodiments of the present invention have been
described as including various types of contactless memories and/or
contactless memory readers, writers or reader/writers. Some of
these embodiments have been described with reference to RF-ID tags
and RF-ID readers, writers or reader/writers; however, other types
of contactless memories may be used. In some such embodiments,
barcodes may be used. After an instrument analyzes a sample,
information about the sample may be suitably encoded as binary or
other types of data and the encoded data may be printed as a
barcode. The instrument may include a barcode printer or the
instrument may communicate, such as via a wired or wireless link,
to a barcode printer. The barcode may include an adhesive backing
to facilitate attaching the barcode to the sample. In another
embodiment, the instrument or an external writer may write the
barcode directly on a surface of the sample, such as by etching the
surface with a laser beam.
[0095] In other embodiments, rewritable barcodes may be used. In
one such embodiment, a rewriteable card is written by a suitable
writer. Such a writer is available from Datacard Group, Minnetonka,
Minn., under the designation Datacard SP25 Card Printer. Additional
information about rewriteable barcode is available in U.S. Pat. No.
5,521,371, titled "Rewriteable Bar Code Display Medium, and Image
Display Method and Image Display Apparatus Using the Same," the
contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
[0096] Barcodes may be read by hand-held barcode readers or fixed
barcode readers coupled to automatic sorting equipment.
[0097] An analytical instrument has been described as including a
processor controlled by instructions stored in a memory. The memory
may be random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash
memory or any other memory, or combination thereof, suitable for
storing control software or other instructions and data. Some of
the functions performed by the analytical instrument have been
described with reference to flowcharts. Those skilled in the art
should readily appreciate that functions, operations, decisions,
etc. of all or a portion of each block, or a combination of blocks,
of the flowcharts may be implemented as computer program
instructions, software, hardware, firmware or combinations thereof.
Those skilled in the art should also readily appreciate that
instructions or programs defining the functions of the present
invention may be delivered to a processor in many forms, including,
but not limited to, information permanently stored on non-writable
storage media (e.g. read-only memory devices within a computer,
such as ROM, or devices readable by a computer I/O attachment, such
as CD-ROM or DVD disks), information alterably stored on writable
storage media (e.g. floppy disks, removable flash memory and hard
drives) or information conveyed to a computer through communication
media, including computer networks. In addition, while the
invention may be embodied in software, the functions necessary to
implement the invention may alternatively be embodied in part or in
whole using firmware and/or hardware components, such as
combinatorial logic, Application Specific Integrated Circuits
(ASICs), Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) or other hardware
or some combination of hardware, software and/or firmware
components.
[0098] While the invention is described through the above-described
exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those of ordinary
skill in the art that modifications to, and variations of, the
illustrated embodiments may be made without departing from the
inventive concepts disclosed herein. Furthermore, disclosed
aspects, or portions of these aspects, may be combined in ways not
listed above. Accordingly, the invention should not be viewed as
limited.
* * * * *