GB2605648A - Auto-sampler device and method of autosampling - Google Patents

Abstract

An auto-sampler device (100) for collecting samples in a plurality of sample units (102) comprises a fluid injection apparatus (104) with a fluid supply to be sampled. The injection apparatus is arranged to inject fluid from the fluid supply into each of the sample units. The device further comprises a feed mechanism (108) arranged to convey a supply of sample units along a processing path (110) through the auto-sampler device, which has one or more sample unit locations (112), each arranged to releasably engage with a sample unit from the supply of sample units. The processing path comprises an engagement position (110a) where the feed mechanism engages a sample unit, a sampling position (110b) where the sample unit is aligned relative to the fluid injection apparatus, and a release position (110d) where the sample unit is released from the feed mechanism. The release position is different from the engagement position.

Description

AUTO-SAMPLER DEVICE AND METHOD OF AUTOSAMPLING

Technical field

The present application relates to an auto-sampler device and a method of auto-sampling. In particular, the device and method are for collecting samples in a plurality of sample units. The samples may be fluid samples (e.g. liquid samples such as water) and/or filter samples. The device and method may be used for the collection of biological material samples

Background

The oceans absorb much of the heat and carbon produced by greenhouse gas emissions and provide primary food sources for many nations, thus sustaining life. Their ability IS to continue providing these services to mankind is dependent on a multitude of physical, chemical and biological factors. Satellite data have delivered a global overview of biological and physical parameters in the top 10 m of the ocean. For physics, this has been supplemented in the third dimension (depth) by autonomous sensor technology, which has contributed to our understanding of contemporary ocean currents and heat transport. The oceans are the largest biome on the planet and therefore understanding the interconnected physical, chemical and biological parameters would benefit from insitu technology targeting chemical and biological parameters. This gap in technology is becoming more poignant as Earth warms and oceans change as a result of greenhouse gas emissions.

Plankton are small organisms that are unable to swim against the current in aquatic environments. They are quite diverse, representing all three domains of life (Bacteria, Archaea and Eukarya) and viruses. Ecosystem roles of plankton span from primary producers, harvesting energy from the sun or chemical reactions to form the base of food webs, to predators and larvae. Their health is directly dependent on their nutrient (i.e. chemical) environments. Among the plankton are also organisms such as pathogenic Vibrios and harmful algae, responsible for illness and death as well as > $1B USD annual economic losses globally. Hence there is significant need for the study of the population of such organisms.

The need for auto-sampler devices and instruments that can collect samples to study aquatic organisms and chemistry is therefore large, including for fisheries, aquaculture, water quality and environmental monitoring. Material harvested from auto-sampler devices can be used to monitor pollution, pathogens, invasive species and ballast water cleanliness with an equally broad potential customer base focused on policy / regulatory enforcement. Monitoring of species in aquatic environments is required as part of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), which requires quantitative measures for Biodiversity Maintenance targeting species distributions and population sizes, and the maintenance of healthy ecosystems.

Related to this imperative, the Partnership for the Observation of the Global Oceans (POGO) has deemed long-term, global autonomous monitoring of marine organisms, using auto-sampler devices, a major priority.

Known ocean-deployable instrumentation for molecular ecology is summarised by Robidart and McQuillan (Molecular-biological sensing in aquatic environments: recent developments and emerging capabilities, Current Opinion in Biotechnology Volume 45, June 2017, Pages 43-50), and updated in the tables below: Instrument Manufacturer or developer Organisms measured Max Size Platforms Samples References volume per per deployment sample DNA detection: Population change Autonomous WW1 > 0.45 pm 150 ml M ROV 6 Taylor et Microbial " SRN al., 2006 Sampler (ANIS) Phytoplankton McLane > 0.8 pm 10 L L NI, P 24 Honda and Sampler (PPS) Research Watanabe, Laboratories 2007; Winslow et al., 2014 Remote Access Sampler (RAS) M cLane Research Laboratories no 500 ml M M, P 48 McKinney et al., 1997; Winslow et al., 2014 filtration Large Volume Water Transfer System (WTS-LV) McLane > 0.8 pm 5000 L M ROV, 1 Beaulieu et al., 2009 Research C,.TD, Ship Laboratories SUspended WHOI > 0.2 um 30 -100 L M ROY 24 24 Particulate Cm' Breier et al. ., Rosette (SUPR) Water and Sir Alister no 250 ml** S Ship 10 Stern etal., Microplankton Hardy filtration (towed) 2015 Sampler Foundation for (WaTVIS) Ocean Science

Table I

Instrument Manufacturer or developer Organisms Max Size Platforms Samples References measured volume per per deployment sample DNA, RNA & protein detection: Changes in populations and activities SUspended WHOI > 0.22 tun 2 L L ROY. 14 Brcicr et al., Particulate Auv' 014; Rosette Govindarajan Version 2 et al., 2015 (SUPR/SUPR-REMUS) Microbial Sampler -Submersible Incubation Device (MS- WHO! > 0.22 gm 4 L NI M. Di' 48 Taylor and Doherty, 1990;Bombar et al., 2015; Edgeomb et al., 2016 SID) Archiver JAMSTEC >0.2 Km Marine Genetic S M P M. P. ROY ' Df*, AUV 48 Fukuba et al. (MGA) 4 L ' In situ University of Porto/CIIMAR > 0.22 inn 4 L S M, P. 16 Ribiero et al., Autonomous ROY' 2019 Biosampler Df*, (IS-ABS) AUV Robotic Cartridge Sampling Instrument (RoCST) National ? 0.2 Km 4 L S M. P. 40+ Samuel et al. Oceanography ROV, Df, ' Centre AUV in prep Automated Alfred >0.4 gm 5 L S M 12 Metfies et al., filtration Wegener 2016 marine lsitech microbes (AUTOFIM)

Table 2

Most known devices are either samplers only (without preservation capacity, limiting their use), or they have low sample capacity. None of the samplers that can carry > 30 samples is user-friendly. Many known devices are samplers capable of more complex tasks (i.e. in situ processing and/or analysis) so they are more complicated than needed for sampling alone. Most are >10 L volume, and require the user to be familiar with programming in order to initiate each deployment.

The appliean s also aware of the following: US20140349328A1 describes in vivo and in vitro (cultured) sampling technologies that allow direct temporal and spatial sampling from living ecosystems such as those associated with marine ecology. Various sampling probes are disclosed.

US2015224502 (Al) discloses a compact flow-through water collection and processing device. The device uses a rotatable cartridge wheel into which multiple custom cartridges can be loaded around a central ring of distribution valves. Only a limited number of sample cartridges that can be carried by the wheel at one time can be processed W0199918421 Al and US6187530B1 disclose an aquatic auto-sampler that moves a filter disk within a filter housing from a filer carousel into a filter housing holder. The filter housing holder is slidablv mounted to a linear shuttle that moves the filer housing into a process position to collect a sample. The filter housing is then returned to the filter carousel for storage. A drawback of this device is that the number of filters is limited by space in the carousel, plus a complex mechanism is required to move the filter housings.

CNI07821301 A discloses a pool stereoscopic monitoring system that has an auto-sampler made up of a rotating disc with test tubes mounted on it. The number of samples is limited by number of test tubes on the disc GB2353860 A discloses a device for pollutant monitoring. This disclosure relates to a passive sampler for the collection of pollutants across a permeable membrane, and does not provide auto-sampling.

US2007161076 Al discloses an in situ microcosm array (1SMA) sampler or testing device. Fluid is passed through a plurality of capillaries by a pump. Valves are provided to control flow through each capillary from a shared inlet. The number of samples is therefore limited by the number of capillaries, and a complex arrangement of valves in required.

CA26I2952 Al discloses a sampling device for capturing samples from a fluid environment. The disclosed device uses a sampling net with a mouth that can be placed on a stream bed to collect a sample. It therefore does not provide auto-sampling.

W02020110097 Al discloses a portable device for collecting and/or concentrating in situ plankton microbiome. The device uses a filter cartridge with a plurality of filters, and a pump for pumping water across the filters. A plurality of valves is used to control flow of water to each filter. The disclosed device can therefore only take 16 filter samples at a time and requires the use of a complex arrangement of valves.

JP4845855B2 discloses a ship ballast water sampling system that is provided with both a sampling nozzle for continuously collecting part of ballast water from a water-pouring line of ballast water and/or a water discharge line of ballast water, and a sampling device for condensing aquatic organisms contained in ballast water collected from the sampling nozzle. JP4845855B2 does not allow multiple samples to be collected in separate sample units for later analysis.

The devices and methods of the present application are intended to address any one or more of the drawbacks mentioned above. For example, a general problem to be addressed is how to provide an auto-sampler device in which the sample number capacity is not limited by thc number of sample units loaded into a magazinc.

Summary

A first aspect provides an auto-sampler device for collecting samples in a plurality of sample units, the device comprising any one or more of: a fluid injection apparatus in fluid communication with a fluid supply to be sampled, the fluid injection apparatus being arranged to inject fluid from the fluid supply into each of the plurality of sample units; a feed mechanism arranged to convey a supply of sample units along a processing path through the device, the feed mechanism having one or more sample unit locations, each sample unit location arranged to rcicasably engage with a sample unit from the supply of sample units, wherein the processing path comprises: IS an engagement position at which the feed mechanism is arranged to engage with a sample unit from the supply of sample units; a sampling position at which the sample unit is aligned relative to the fluid injection apparatus; and a release position at which the sample unit is released from the sample unit location of the feed mechanism, the release position being different from the engagement position.

The feed mechanism allows a continuous stream of sample units to be conveyed along the processing path by engaging or capturing them at the engagement position, taking a sample, and releasing them again at a different position along the processing path.

The auto-sampler device is therefore capable of collecting samples in a number of sampling units limited only by the number that can be supplied to the device and stored after processing. This is in contrast to prior art devices which rely on a predetermined number of sample units.

The feed mechanism may be an indexing mechanism arranged to move the sample units between the different positions of the processing path. This allows the sample units to be positioned accurately in alignment with the injection apparatus to collect a sample.

The indexing mechanism may comprise an indexing member (e.g. wheel) rotatably mounted relative to the water injection apparatus. The sample unit locations may be distributed around the outer surface (e.g. circumference) of the indexing member.

The sample unit locations may be formed by recesses in an outer surface of the indexing member, the recesses each being arranged to receive a sample unit, whereby the sample unit is conveyed along the processing path by the indexing member until being released at the release position The indexing member may be driven by a Geneva drive mechanism arranged to cause intermittent rotation of the indexing member. This provides precise, repeatable positioning of the sample units.

The auto-sampler device may be further arranged to inject a preservative into one or more of the sample units.

The auto-sampler device may further comprise a preservative injection apparatus arranged to inject a preservative into the sample units. The processing path may further comprise a preservative position following the sampling position at which the sample unit is aligned relative to the preservative injection apparatus. Separate injection apparatuses are therefore provided for the injection of sample fluid and preservative, at different respective locations along the processing path. The fluid injection apparatus and preservative injection apparatus may each comprise a similar arrangement of nozzles to fluidly couple to the sample units.

The fluid injection apparatus may be further arranged to inject the preservative into one or more of the sample units. in some embodiments, the fluid injection apparatus and preservative injection apparatus are combined into a single injection apparatus. The fluid injection apparatus is therefore also arranged to inject a preservative after the fluid sample injection is complete. A single arrangement of nozzles may therefore be used to inject preservative and sample fluid.

The fluid injection apparatus (and the preservative injection apparatus where provided) may comprise a pair of actuated nozzles arranged engage with valves at either end of the sample units.

The nozzles may each be configured to engage with a corresponding valve provided on the sample unit. The valves may be needless valves such as needless luer connectors.

The fluid injection apparatus may comprise a linear actuator system to which the nozzles are mounted.

The auto-sampler device may be arranged to store a mission definition preferably including one or more mission parameters which, when read by the auto-sampler device, is used to control the operation of the auto-sampling device. The mission definition may include pre-defined mission parameters.

The mission parameters may include any one or more of: a water injection volume; whether a preservative injection is required; a preservative injection volume; a number of samples to be taken, a time separation of sample collection; and a mission duration.

The auto-sampler device may further comprise, or be in communication with, one or more sensors. The one or more sensors may be arranged to measure one or both of: one or more environmental parameters associated with the environment in which the auto-sampler device is operating; and one or more operating parameters of the auto-sampler device.

The environmental parameters may be parameters that can be measured by an external sensor i.e. they relate to factors external to the sampling process within the auto-sampler device. The auto sampler device may be configured to receive sensor information indicative of one or more environmental parameters and compare the sensor information to a pre-determined or locally calculated threshold, or sensor information may be provided by sensors provided as part of the auto-sampler device.

The auto-sampler device may be arranged to trigger the collection of a sample, or to stop sampling, in response to the threshold comparison.

The auto-sampler device may be configured to determine one or more sampling error warnings by comparison of each of the environmental parameters and/or operating parameters to a respective predefined threshold.

The auto-sampler device may be arranged to log the one or more sampling error warnings in a computer readable memory. The auto-sampler device may be arranged to control its operation according to the one or more sampling error warnings The operating parameters may include any one or more of: an indication of engagement between the injection system(s) and the sample unit, water flow rate, and pressure/differential pressure in the water injection apparatus (e.g. a maximum fluid path pressure threshold). The operating parameters may be stored by the auto-sampler device similarly to the mission definition parameters, and may be pre-defined by the user when defining a mission. The operating parameters may comprise threshold values for comparison to a sensor reading. The operating parameters may relate to internal factors of the operation of the auto-sampler.

The maximum fluid path threshold may be compared to a pressure measurement of the fluid being injected into a sample unit. The auto-sampler device may comprise a pressure sensor in order to measure the pressure at which fluid is injected into a sample unit. This may allow clogging or blockages within the system or sample unit to be detected and injection stopped in response. This may help to avoid damage to the pump used to for fluid injection in the case of a blockage restricting flow.

The auto-sampler device may further comprise a sample unit information read/write device arranged to read and/or write information to or from each of the sample units.

The read/write device may be arranged to read and/or write a unique identifier from, or to, each of the sample units.

The read/write device may be arranged to write any one or more of: i) the one or more sample error warnings, ii) the one or more environmental parameters and/or iii) the one or more operating parameters onto an associated sample unit.

The read/write device may comprise an RFID chip reader/writer. it may be arranged to communicate with an RF1D chip/memory provided on each sample unit.

The fluid from which samples are collected may be water (e.g. fresh or sea water), and the fluid injection apparatus may be arranged to inject water into the sample units.

A second aspect provides a method of auto-sampling for collecting samples in a plurality of sample units, the method comprising one or more of: a) engaging a sample unit at an engagement position; b) conveying the sample unit from the engagement position to a sampling position; c) injecting fluid into the sample unit at the sampling position in order to collect a sample d) conveying the sample unit to a release position; and e) releasing the sample unit at the release position, the release position being different from the engagement position, wherein steps a) to c) are carried out for each of the plurality of sample units. I5

After injecting fluid into the sample unit, the method may further comprise injecting a preservative into the sample unit The method may further comprise conveying the sample unit from the sampling position to a preservative position, and injecting a preservative into the sample unit.

The method may comprise injecting preservative into the sample unit at the sampling position.

Method steps a) to e) may be controlled according to a mission definition including one or more mission parameters. The mission parameters may be pre-defined (e.g. saved before the mission begins).

The method may further comprise measuring, or receiving a signal indicative of, one or both of one or more environmental parameters in which the auto-sampler device is operating; and one or more operating parameters of the auto-sampler device.

The method may further comprise determining one or more sampling error warnings by comparing the environmental parameters and/or operating parameters to a respective predefined threshold.

The method may further comprise logging the one or more sampling error warnings, and/or controlling the auto-sampling according to the one or more sampling error warnings The method may comprise reading and/or writing information from, or onto each of the sample units. The information may include a unique identifier, the one Or more environmental parameters in which the auto-sampler device is operating; and/or the one or more operating parameters of the auto-sampler device.

Each conveying step may comprise indexing the sample unit from one position to another in one or more intermittent steps.

A third aspect provides an auto-sampler device for collecting samples in a plurality of sample units, the device comprising any one or more of: a fluid injection apparatus in fluid communication with a fluid supply to be sampled, the fluid injection apparatus arranged to inject fluid from the fluid supply into each of the plurality of sample units; a feed mechanism arranged to deliver a supply of sample units to the fluid injection apparatus; a storage unit to which the feed mechanism is arranged to output sample units in which a sample has been collected; and a read/write device arranged to read and or write information associated with each sample collection to or from each associated sample unit.

The auto-sampler can therefore be arranged to store data associated with each sample on the sample units themselves. This allows the identification of a given sample unit or access to information regarding the collection of the sample from the plurality of sample units collected in the output storage unit. This allows a large number of sample units to be collected in the storage unit and later be identified without having to use a fixed magazine in which the sample units are stored in the order in which they were taken.

The read/write device may read/write a unique identifier associated with each sample unit to or from each sample unit. This may allow the sample units stored in the storage unit to be identified.

The read/write device may additionally or alternatively store any one or more of: i) a sample error warning, ii) an environmental parameter and/or iii) an operating parameter associated with each sample collection on the respective sample unit.

The sample error warning, environmental parameter and/or operating parameter may additionally or alternatively be stored in a memory associated with the auto-sampler device in association with the unique identifier. This meta-data may then be used in later analysis.

The read/write device may be an RFID device arranged to communicate with an RFID chip provided on each sample unit.

A fourth aspect provides a method of auto-sampling for collecting samples in a plurality of sample units, the method comprising any one or more of: receiving a supply of sample imits in which a sample is to be collected; injecting fluid from a fluid supply into each of the plurality of sample units to collect a sample; and outputting each of the sample units, once a sample is collected, to a storage unit wherein the method further comprises: reading and/or writing information associated with each sample collection to or from each associated sample unit.

The reading and/or writing information may comprise reading/writing a unique identifier associated with each sample unit to or from each sample unit.

The reading and/or writing of information may additionally or alternatively comprise storing any one or more of: i) a sample error warning, ii) one or more environmental parameters and/or iii) one or more operating parameters associated with each sample collection on the respective sample unit.

The sample error warning(s), environmental parameter(s) and/or operating parameter(s) may additionally or alternatively be stored in a memory associated with the auto-sampler device, and may be stored in association with the unique identifier.

The reading and/or writing of information may be done using an RF1D device arranged to communicate with an RFID chip provided on each sample unit.

A fifth aspect provides a ship having the auto-sampler device of the first or third aspect mounted thereon or attached thereto.

A sixth aspect provides an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) having the auto-sampler device of the first or third aspect mounted thereon or attached thereto.

A seventh aspect provides a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) having the auto-sampler device of the first or third aspect mounted thereon or attached thereto. The AUV and ROV may be suitable for use in water, e.g. may be ocean going The skilled person will appreciate that except where mutually exclusive, a feature described in relation to any one of the above aspects may be applied to any other 20 aspect.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of an auto-sampler device according to an embodiment; Figure 2 shows a schematic front view of the auto-sampler device of Figure 2; Figures 3 and 4 shows a perspective view of an auto-sampler device according to another embodiment; Figure 5 shows a schematic side view of an auto-sampler device according to another embodiment; Figure 6 shows a perspective view of an auto-sampler device according to another embodiment; Figure 7 shows a schematic view of an auto-sampler device on board a ship; Figure 8 shows a schematic view of an auto-sampler device on board an autonomous underwater vehicle (AU V); Figure 9 shows a method of auto-sampling; Figurel0 shows another method of auto-sampling; and Figure 11 shows another method of auto-sampling.

Detailed Description

An auto-sampler device 100 is illustrated schematically in Figures 1 and 2. The auto-sampler device is suitable for collecting aquatic samples from an input supply of water. The auto-sampler device 100 can be used in a number of different implementations or delivery platforms to assist in the research of oceanographic or other aquatic sciences, including freshwater microbiology and waste water epidemiology. The device 100 can be used in a laboratory, sampling from a ship's underway system or another flowing seawater supply, or can be mounted on autonomous vehicles, open ocean buoys, piers, pontoons or floats. The auto-sampler device 100 can be used for a number of implementations in which biomaterial samples are required including fisheries, aquaculture, water quality and environmental monitoring. Material harvested from the auto-sampler device can be used to monitor pollution, pathogens, invasive species and ballast water cleanliness for various purposes.

The auto-sampler device 100 is arranged to collect samples of biomaterial (or non-biological particulates) filtered from water injected through samples units 102. The sample units 102 in this embodiment may therefore be referred to as filter units or cartridges. Various types of sample units are known in the art for such purposes. The auto-sampler device 100 can in some embodiments be used with off-the-shelf sample units such as Sterivex Cartridges. Other sample units may be used that are suitable for filtering. The auto-sampler device 100 is arranged to receive a supply of water that is to be sampled, a volume of which is then passed through a filter within each sample unit and the filtrate is either discharged or retained for further analysis. Particles collected on the filter are stored within the sample unit for later analysis. The pore sizes of the filter may be chosen according to the material to be sampled. For sampling of aquatic micro-organisms the pore size may be between 0.1pm and 0.6p.m, and preferably may be about 0.2gm or 0.45p.m. Commercially-available filters or larger pore-size custom filters may be used depending on the requirements of the specific implementation of the invention.

While the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2 is configured for the collection of particles retained by a filter, the device may in other embodiments be configured to additionally or alternatively collect liquid samples for analysis In each case, water is injected into each sample unit to collect a sample.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the auto sampling device 100 generally comprises a water injection apparatus 104, a preservative injection apparatus 106 and a feed mechanism 108 The water injection apparatus 104 is in fluid communication with a water supply 120 from which samples are to be taken. The water injection apparatus 104 is arranged to inject water from the water supply into each of the plurality of sample units 102 so that microorganisms or the like are filtered from the water and collected in the sample units 102. The preservative injection apparatus 106 is arranged to inject a preservative into the sample units after a sample has been collected.

The feed mechanism 108 is arranged to convey a supply of sample units 108 along a processing path 110 through the device 100 (indicated by the dashed line in Figure 1). Figure 1 shows seven sample units 102a-102g that are being conveyed through the device 100. The feed mechanism 108 is arranged to move a series of sample units 102 along the processing path 110. The feed mechanism 108 comprises a plurality of sample imit locations (one of which is labelled 112 in Figure 1). Each of the sample unit locations 112 is arranged to relcasably engage with a sample unit 102 such that, once engaged, the sample unit is conveyed relative to the water injection apparatus 104 and preservative injection apparatus 106.

The processing path 110 comprises an engagement position 110a at which the feed mechanism 108 is arranged to engage with a sample unit 102. At this position, a sampling unit 102 is captured or engaged by the feed mechanism 108 so that it can be carried along the processing path 110.

The processing path 110 subsequently comprises a sampling position 1106 at which a sample unit 102 is aligned relative to the water injection apparatus 104. When at this position the water injection apparatus 104 can be activated so that the injection apparatus connects to the sample unit and water is injected into the sample unit 108 to collect a sample.

The processing path 110 subsequently comprises a preservative injection position 110c at which a sample unit 102 is aligned relative to the preservative injection apparatus 106. At this position preservative is injected into the sample unit 102.

Following the preservative injection position 110c, the processing path 110 comprises a release position 110d at which the sample units are released from the feed mechanism and so released from the auto-sample device. The sample units can then be stored for later analysis.

As can be seen in Figure 1, the release position is separate from the engagement position i.e, an empty sample unit is engaged by the feed mechanism at a different location compared to where it is released. This allows a supply of sample units to be moved from an input position to a different output position so that a continuous stream of sample units is processed and in which samples are collected. This is opposed to prior art devices where sample units are taken from a position in a magazine, used to collect a sample, and returned to the same position within the magazine, By feeding the sample units along the processing path 110 the auto-sampler device is capable of collecting samples in a number of sampling units limited only by the number that can be supplied to the device and stored after processing. This is in contrast to prior art devices which rely on a predetermined number of sample units. While only seven sample units arc shown in Figure 1, a continuous supply of sampling units may be fed into the auto-sampler device for the duration of time over which samples are desired for collection.

The auto-sampling device 100 may be connected to a sample unit input storage unit from which empty sample units arc fed into the engagement position, and a sample unit output storage unit into which sample units having a sample collected therein are received from the release position. The auto-sampling device 100, input storage unit and output storage unit may together form an auto-sampling systcm.

In the presently described embodiment, the feed mechanism is an indexing mechanism arranged to move the sample units in discrete intermittent steps along the processing path. The sample units 102 are held stationary for a time period at the injection apparatuses set by the indexing frequency of the indexing mechanism. This allows water and preservative to be injected into the sample units 102 while they are in a stationary position. By using an indexing motion the sample units are moved accurately to the correct position to allow sampling. In other embodiments, a continuous movement of sample units can be provided.

In the presently described embodiment, each of the engagement, sampling, preservative injection and release positions arc each separated by a single step of the indexing mechanism. Each sample unit is therefore conveyed along the processing path so that it is indexed to each of these positions. In other embodiments, these positions may each be one or more indexing steps apart from each other, and may not be evenly distributed along the processing path.

in the presently described embodiment, the feed mechanism 108 comprises an indexing wheel 114 that is rotatably mounted relative to the water and preservative injection apparatuses 104, 106. The indexing wheel 114 comprises a plurality of sample unit locations 112 distributed evenly around its circumference at which it is arranged to rcleasably engage with the sample units 102. Each sample unit location 112 is formed from an axial recess in an outer cylindrical surface of the indexing wheel 114. Each of the recesses arc shaped so that a sample unit 102 may rest at least partially within the recess. This allows it to be engaged by the indexing wheel 114 at the engagement location 110a and conveyed along the processing path 110. In the presently described embodiment, the sampling units 102 are supplied in a chain in which they arc interconnected by a webbing 116. The sample units 102 may therefore be oriented in fixed positions along a flexible belt formed by the webbing 116. In other embodiment, the sampling units may be fed individually into the engagement position 110a of the processing path 110 from a hopper or similar storage container. Intermittent rotary motion of the indexing wheel 114 accurately positions the supply of sampling units 102 firstly at the correct position to allow the water injection system to interact to perform the act of sampling, and secondly at a correct position to allow preservative injection The indexing wheel 114 may be generally circular in cross section as shown in the Figures, but may in other embodiments be any other suitably shaped rotatably mounted member.

The indexing wheel 114 may be driven by a Geneva drive 118 that translates continuous rotation movement into intermittent rotary motion of the indexing wheel.

The Geneva drive comprises a rotating drive wheel that is rotated continuously and an intermittently rotating driven wheel. The drive wheel comprises a pin that is received within a plurality of slots located in the driven wheel as it rotates in order to advance the driven wheel by one step at a timc. The drive wheel comprises a part-circular locking portion that engages with a correspondingly shaped recess in the driven wheel to lock the driven wheel in position between steps.

The indexing wheel 114 may be driven by a motor provided in the auto-sampler device 100, or remotely using magnetic couplings. This may allow underwater operation of the device. The Geneva drive 118 advantageously provides precise and repeatable positioning of the sample units. Other indexing or intermittent drives may however be used in other embodiments, such as a stepper motor or the like.

In the presently described embodiment, the water injection apparatus 104 is arranged to form a fluidic input and output connection with the sample unit so that sample water may be passed therethrough. The water injection apparatus 104 comprises a water input 120 at which a supply of water to be sampled (e.g. sea water) is received into the auto-sampler device 100. The water injection apparatus 104 further comprises a pair of linearly actuated nozzles I22a, I22b. The nozzles are actuated by the water injection apparatus relative to a sample unit at the sampling position 110b. The nozzles 122a, 122b are arranged to connect to corresponding valves 124a, 124b provided at opposite ends of each of the sampling units 102. The filter provided in each sampling unit is located between the valves such that water flowing through the waters passes through the filter to collect a sample of particles (e.g, biological material) within the water. In the presently described embodiment, the valves provided on the sample unit are needle free valves. This helps to ensure the sample is not lost due to leakage and also helps reduce the risk of contamination. The valves may be needle free lucr activated valves, and may be swabablc valves to reduce the risk of contamination. In the present embodiment, one of the pair of nozzles acts as an input nozzle via which water is injected into the sample unit. The second nozzle acts as an output nozzle to receive the filtered water. The filtered water may then be retained for further analysis, or output from the device. In other embodiments, only a single nozzle may be required where liquid samples rather than filter samples are being taken.

The nozzles are mounted within the water injection apparatus 104 so that they can move relative to the sample units 102 to connect and disconnect to the valves 124a, 124b. In the present embodiment, the nozzles 122a, 122b are mounted to a linear actuator system that comprises a leadscrew 126. The leadscrew is driven directly by a motor 128 in the present embodiment, but may be drivcn remotely using a magnetic coupling to allow for under water use. The leadscrew 126 comprises portions which have left and right handed threads 126a, 126b to allow simultaneous actuation of the nozzles and connection to both ends of the sample unit. In other embodiments, other actuation mechanisms may be provided to drive the nozzles.

The water injection apparatus 104 further comprises a pump 130 via which water is pumped into the sampling unit 102 once the nozzles 124a, 124b are connected. The pump is operated for a time duration set according to the parameters of a mission definition as will be described later. After pumping is complete, the nozzles 124a, 124b are disengaged so that the sample unit 120 can be indexed along the processing path.

The present embodiment is configured to inject a volume of water into each of the sample units of approximately 10 to 4000 nil. Other volumes of water may be collected/sampled depending on the specific implementation of the device. The water injection system may be connected to any suitable source of fluid to be sampled. The auto-sampler device may, for example, comprise a circulating sample reservoir upstream of the intake for water delivery when not-submerged during use.

The preservative injection apparatus 106 is arranged to inject a supply of preservative into the sample units. The preservative may be a dosage of a liquid fixative such as RNALater. Other reagents may be used. The preservative may be suitable for preserving DNA and RNA, which are universal for life on Earth. This may allow high-sensitivity forensics from aquatic material using environmental DNA or eDNA' methodologies. eDNA measures genetic signatures for specific organisms through collected biomaterial from aquatic ecosystems such as sloughed cells, scales and faeces, and has been used most recently as proof of the current habitat of an organism previously thought to be extinct in the UK, which was later verified by visual identification in this region, eDNA has also been used for the monitoring of invasive species in marine harbours in the UK, which would require less manual labour and thus a large costs savings from environmental monitoring groups. RNA methodologies can be applied to measure viability of pathogens, of 'killed cells' from ballast water treatment, or from sewage treatment overflows after flooding The preservative injection apparatus 106 comprises a similar arrangement of injection nozzles as the water injection apparatus It is instead in fluid communication with a preservative reservoir.

In some embodiments, the preservation apparatus 106 may be absent. The preservation position of the process path is therefore to be understood as optional, with no preservative injected in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the preservative position and injection system may be provided, but only activated when required for some sample units and not others (e.g. as determined by the mission definition). In yet other embodiments, preservative may be injected into the sample units at the sampling position. In this embodiment, the water injection apparatus and preservative injection apparatus are combined into a single injection apparatus. In such an embodiment, the water injection apparatus is also arranged to inject a preservative after the water sample injection is complete. The water injection apparatus may therefore be in fluid communication with the preservative reservoir, and the separate preservative injection apparatus absent.

The auto-sampler device 100 further comprises a control systcm 132. The control system is in operable communication with the indexing mechanism, water injection apparatus and preservative injection apparatus The control system 132 comprises a processor 132a and computer readable memory 132b arranged to store a mission definition which includes mission parameters which, when read by the processor, control operation of the auto-sampler device. The control system 132 further comprises an input/output interface 132c via which the control system can be programmed and data stored or data retrieved. The input/output interface may comprise a USB connection or the like to which a computer can be connected, or may comprise a wireless connection interface such as a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi module.

The mission definition may define various parameters according to which samples are collected. The mission definition may define various parameters including any one or more of: a water injection volume (which may be pre-set according to the desired research requirements or according to the filter pore size); whether a preservative injection is required; the preservative injection volume; number of samples to be taken, time separation of sample collection (e.g. indexing speed); and mission duration. The water and preservative volume may be controlled by setting an injection duration and pressure. The mission definition may be pre-set and stored within the controller so that the auto-sampler device 100 can operate autonomously. In other embodiments, the mission definition can be updated during operation.

The auto-sampler device 100 further comprises one or more sensors configured to sense one or both of environmental parameters in which the auto-sampler device is operating and operating parameters of the device itself. The operating and environmental parameters may each be measured using a respective sensor.

The operating parameters may include any one or more of: engagement between the injection system(s) and the sample unit, water flow rate, and pressure/differential pressure in the water injection apparatus (e.g. a maximum fluid path pressure threshold). The maximum fluid path pressure may be used to detect blockage or clogging of the sample units and stop sample collection if excess pressure is detected to avoid damage to the supply pump.

The environmental parameters can be anything measured by an external sensor, with a pre-determined or in-situ-calculated threshold provided for comparison. The auto-sampler device is triggered to sample or to stop sampling based on the comparison between an environmental parameter and the threshold. The controller may be arranged to receive sensor measurements, or may comprise sensors to take measurements, indicative of suitable environmental parameters so that a threshold comparison can be made.

The controller may be arranged to determine sampling error warnings by comparison of the operating parameters and/or environmental parameters to a respective predefined threshold. The threshold may define a limit or range of accurate or safe operation. Sample error warnings determined in this way may be logged by the controller, or used to control the sampling process (e.g. to stop further sampling, or adjust collection parameters such as water pressure). This may allow errors such as over pressurisation during sample filtration to be detected. The controller may be arranged to log sample collection by storing any one or more of the environmental parameters, operating parameters, or sample errors determined for each sample unit in the controller memory. These data may alternatively be stored in a memory located remotely from the auto-sampler device.

The auto-sampler device 100 further comprises a sample unit information read/write IS device 134. The read/write device is arranged to remotely read and/or write information to or from each of the sample units.

The sample units may be electronically tagged by the auto-sampler device 100 using the read/write device 134. The read/write device 134 may be arranged to write a unique identifier associated with each sample unit on the sample units. The identifier may be stored using a computer readable memory such as an RF1D chip 136 provided on each sample unit. The read/write device 134 in this embodiment is an RFiD device capable of writing the identifier into the data storage of the RFiD chip, in other embodiments, other forms of remotely accessible computer readable storage may be used. The data storage may, for example be an optical label such a bar-code or QR code that can be printed onto the storage units using the read/write device 134. In yet other embodiments, the read/write device may be arranged to print a human readable identifier on each sample unit (e.g. printed -ID number).

The sample units 102 may alternatively be labelled using the unique identifiers before the mission begins. The read/write device 134 may, for example, be arranged to read a unique identifier on each of the sample units for use in logging the samples taken.

The unique identifiers associated with each sample unit may be stored in the memory of the controller to keep a log of the samples which have been collected. Any environmental parameters, operational parameters, or sample errors may be stored in association with thc unique idcntificrs so that they can be used in later analysis of the samples. It some embodiments, the read/write device 134 may be arranged to store environment parameters, operation parameters, sample errors or any other data directly onto the sample units (either with or without the unique identifier) The auto-sampler device may further comprise a flushing system, connected to the intake via an optional valve, to periodically flush the water injection apparatus with a cleaning fluid, such as bleach. This helps reduce the amount of carryover from previous sampling operations. The flushing system may be triggered by the control system, and may be triggered according to parameters of the mission definition The auto-sampler device 100 is powered by a suitable power supply depending on the relevant implementation. In some embodiments, the power supply may be provided by an on-board supply such as battery cells or a solar panel. in other embodiments the device may be connected to an external power supply if integrated into a platform such as an autonomous underwater vehicle, or if mounted onto a ship.

In the presently described embodiment, the indexing mechanism 108 is in the form of an indexing wheel 114 arranged to rotate in order to index sample units 102 along the processing path 110. The indexing mechanism described herein provides advantageous repeatability and accuracy of sample unit positioning. -in other embodiments, other forms of indexing mechanism may be used to convey sample units so that they are indexed along the processing path.

In the embodiments already described the auto-sampler device 100 is arranged to collect samples filtered from water passed through the filters of the sample units 102. The present application is not however limited to only this implementation, in other embodiments, the auto-sampler device 100 is configured to collect liquid samples in additional to, or alternatively to, filter retention samples. In such embodiments, the sample units and inlet fittings can be exchanged for liquid sample collection and/or sample filtration as desired. Liquid sample collection may, for example, be used for implementations in the oil industry, environmental chemistry and toxicology.

Although the embodiments described herein are intended for use in collecting samples from water (i.e. either sea water, natural fresh water, or any other water sources such as drinking water) the present application is not limited only to that implementation. Any of the embodiments described herein may be adapted for use in collecting samples of any fluid. For example, they may be used to collected samples of fluids in industrial or chemical process. The water injection apparatus of ally embodiment described herein may more generally be referred to as a fluid injection apparatus.

Figures 3 and 4 show an example embodiment of the auto-sampler device shown in Figures 1 and 2. Figure 4 shows the device without an input feed of sample units to aid clarity. Corresponding components are given corresponding reference numbers for ease of reference. Figure 3 shows a series of sample units 102 being fed into the feed mechanism (in this case an indexing wheel 114). The sample units in this example arc Sterivex cartridges connected by a webbing. Figures 3 shows the needless luer lock valves I24a provided at the end of each cartridge. Figures 3 and 4 also show the Geneva drive 118 used to drive the indexing wheel 114, along with the water injection and preservative injections apparatuses connected to a seawater source and an RNAlater reservoir.

Figure 5 illustrates a further embodiment of an auto-sampling device 200. In this embodiment, the auto-sampler device 200 generally comprises a water injection apparatus 204 similarly to the other embodiments described herein, and is arranged to collect samples in a plurality of sample units 202. Corresponding reference numerals have been used in Figure 5 for features that a common to the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4. Anything disclosed herein in relation to those embodiments may also apply to the embodiment shown in Figure 5.

The auto-sampler device 200 is fed with a supply of empty sample units 238 from a suitable supply unit or hopper as already described. Samples arc carried by a feed mechanism to the water injection apparatus where a sample is collected before being output into a storage unit 240. The storage unit may be a storage hopper or the like arranged to hold a plurality of sample units in which a sample has been collected. The sample units may be conveyed through the device by a suitable feed mechanism as described elsewhere herein, and is not limited to the indexing wheel described above.

The auto-sampler device 200 comprises a control/monitoring system 232 having a processor 232a and memory 2326, which is in communication with a read/write device 234 and one or more sensors 242 similarly to as described in connection with the embodiments of Figures 1 to 4 The read/write device 234 is arranged to read and or write information associated with each sample collection to or from an associated sample unit. For example, the read/write device may read/write a unique identifier associated with each sample unit to or from each sample unit. The read/write device may additionally or alternatively store any one or more of i) the sample error warnings, ii) the environmental parameters and/or iii) the operating parameters associated with each sample collection to the respective sample unit as described above. These data may additionally or alternatively be stored in the memory of the control/monitoring system 232 in association with the unique identifier for use in later analysis. The read/write device may be an RFID device arranged to communication with an RFID chip provided on each sample unit as already described. Other types of storage media may be used.

Storing meta-data associated with each sample on the sample units themselves in this way allows the identification of a given sample unit from the plurality of sample units collected in the output storage hopper 240. For example, the unique identifier of a sample unit can be read, providing further meta-data from the control/monitoring system, when the sample is analysed. This allows a large number of sample units to be collected in the hopper 240 and later identified without having to use a fixed magazine in which the sample units are stored in the order in which they were taken.

Figure 6 shows an auto-sampler device 250 according to another embodiment.

Corresponding reference numerals are used in Figure 6 for components common with the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 5, and anything described in connection with those embodiments may also be used in connection with the embodiment of Figure 6, and vice versa.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 6, the auto-sampler device 250 comprises a sample unit supply system 252 arranged to supply a supply of empty sample units 238 to the indexing wheel 214 (or other feed mechanism). In this embodiment, the supply system 252 comprises a guide arranged to orient the sample units and supply them the order in which they are loaded to the engagement position of the processing path.

Figure 6 shows a sequence of sample units 202a, 202b, 202c and 202d corresponding to those of Figures 1 and 2. Sample unit 202e is at the engagement position, while sample unit 202d is at the sampling position. The guide comprises a track structure 254 adapted guide the movement of the sample units 238. The track structure 254 comprises a guide feature (such as a groove) adapted to engage with a corresponding guide feature (e.g. a lip or other protrusion) provided on each sample unit. Positive engagement between the guide features orients the sample units 238 with respect to the indexing wheel 214 so that they can be captured at the engagement position. Sample units may be actively driven along the track structure 254, or may be allowed to move into position under the action of gravity.

As already discussed, the auto-sampler devices of the present application can be used in a number of different implementations. Embodiments in which the auto-sampler device is used to collect samples from sea water for use in oceanography are illustrated in Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 shows the auto-sampler 100 mounted on board a ship 300, with water supplied from an underway system 302 (e.g. an under way water pump system) that is arranged to provide a supply of water from outside of the hull of the ship to the auto-sampler device. In some embodiments, the water supply may pumped from a TowFish water intake to the auto-sampler device on board the ship. The auto-sampler may be used in an onboard wet lab. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7 the auto-sampler device is fed a supply of sample units from an input storage unit 304 such as a hopper holding un-used empty sample units. Sample units that have been used by the auto-sampler device 100 to collect a water sample are output into an output storage unit 306. The number of sample units that can be used to take samples is therefore limited only by the available supply and the available storage for sample units in which a sample has been collected.

Figure 8 shows an embodiment in which the auto-sampler device 100 is mounted on board an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). In other embodiments, the auto-sampler device can be similarly mounted on board a remotely operated vehicle (ROY).

In these embodiments, the auto-sampler device is in fluidic connection with a supply pump 402 or the like to provide water from outside of the AUV or ROV to the water injection apparatus. The auto-sampler 100 is fed a supply of sample units from an input sample unit storage unit 404 and outputs collected samples to an output storage unit 406 in a similar manner to operation on board a ship as described above.

Figures 7 and 8 illustrate only example implementations of the auto-sampler device when used for oceanographic research. It may also be mounted on board other autonomous platforms or open ocean buoys, piers, pontoons or floats. Any of the auto-sampler devices described or claimed herein can be used in combination with a ship, AUV or ROY, including the auto-sampler devices illustrated in Figures 1 to 6.

The present application further relates to a method of auto-sampling that is used to collect samples in a plurality of sample units. The method 500 is illustrated in Figure 9, and may be carried out by any of the auto-sampling devices described herein, for example the auto-sampling devices of Figures 1 to 6, but could also be implemented using any other suitable device. Anything described elsewhere herein in connection with a device may also apply to the disclosed methods The method 500 comprises engaging 502 a sample unit at an engagement position.

Once engaged, the sample unit is conveyed along a processing path. The sampling unit may be conveyed by being indexed along the processing path using any suitable indexing mechanism that is configured to move the sampling unit in discrete intermittent steps, such as those described elsewhere herein.

The sample unit is first conveyed (e.g. indexed) 504 from the engagement position to a sampling position. Once at the sampling position, the method 500 comprises injecting 506 fluid (e.g, water) into the sample unit in order to collect a sample. The injection step may comprise injecting fluid through the sample unit so that material is collected in a filter therein. The injection step may alternatively, or additionally, comprise injecting fluid through or into the sample unit so that a liquid sample is retained, e.g. fluid is collected and stored in the sample unit.

Once fluid has been injected 506 into the sample unit, the method 500 comprises conveying (e.g. indexing) 508 the sample unit to a release position. Once at the release position, the sample unit is released 510. The release position is different from the engagement position, therefore allowing each of the sample units to be moved through the auto-sampler from an engagement position to a different release position.

The steps shown in Figure 9 are carried out for each of a supply of a plurality of sample units. The method therefore involves continuously processing a supply of sample units, rather than a fixed number. The sample collection may be controlled according to a mission definition including one or more mission parameters. The mission parameters may be pre-defined as already discussed, and may include a fluid injection volume; whether a preservative injection is required; the preservative injection volume; number of samples to be taken, time separation of sample collection (e.g. indexing speed); and mission duration.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises injecting a preservative into some or all of the sample units. Such a method 600 is illustrated in Figure 10. The method 600 comprises steps of: engaging 602; conveying (e.g. indexing) 604 to a sampling position; and injecting 606 fluid (e.g. water) into a sample unit, each step being similar to those of the method of Figure 9. The method 600 also comprises corresponding steps of conveying (e.g. indexing) 608 to a release position and releasing 610 the sample unit.

The method 600 further comprises a step of injecting a preservative once the sample has been taken. The method 600 therefore comprises, after the fluid injection step 606, conveying (e.g. indexing) 612 the sample unit from the sampling position to a preservative position Once at the preservative position, the method comprises injecting 614 a preservative into the sample unit. As described elsewhere herein, the preservative may be suitable for preserving DNA and RNA. Following the preservative injection, the method 600 comprises conveying (e.g. indexing) 608 the sample unit to a release position at which point it is released 610. In this embodiment, all of the steps shown in Figure 10 are carried out for each of a supply of sample units to provide continuous processing. in other embodiments, the step of injecting a preservative once the sample has been taken may take place at the sample position (e.g. using a combined water injection and preservative injection apparatus as already described).

Methods 500, 600 may further comprise measuring one or both of: environmental parameters in which the auto-sampler device is operating; and operating parameters of the auto-sampler device. As discussed above, this can be done using appropriate sensors. The operating parameters may include any one or more of: engagement between the injection system(s) and the sample unit, water flow rate, and pressure/differential pressure (e.g. maximum threshold pressure) in the water injection apparatus as described elsewhere.

The methods 500, 600 may further comprise determining one or more sampling error warnings by comparing the environmental parameters and/or operating parameters to a respective predefined threshold. Once a sampling error warning is determined, the method may comprise logging the sampling error warning (e.g. in the computer readable memory of a controller of the auto-sampler device). The method may also comprise controlling the auto-sampling according to the sampling error warning. For example, the sampling may be stopped if a sampling error warning is determined. The environmental parameters and/or operating parameters may also be stored to provide a log of the sample collection.

The methods 500, 600 may further comprise reading and/or writing information onto, or from, each of the sample units. The information may include a unique identifier as discussed above. Other information may also be stored such as the sampling error warnings, operating parameters or environmental parameters. Information may be read or written to a RFID chip provided on the sample units. Other forms of computer readable or human readable storage may be used.

Figure 11 illustrates a method 700 carried out by the auto-sampler device of Figure 5. The method comprises receiving 702 a supply of sample units in which a sample is to be collected. For each sample unit received, the method 700 comprises injecting 704 fluid (e.g. water) from a fluid supply into each of the plurality of sample units to collect a sample.

The method further comprises reading and/or writing 706 information associated with each sample collection process to or from each associated sample unit. The reading and/or writing of information may be done using an RFID device arranged to communicate with an RFID chip provided on each sample unit.

After a sample has been collected by injecting water to obtain either or both of a liquid or filter sample and information read/written, the method 700 comprises outputting 708 the sample units to a storage unit. The storage unit may be any suitable storage device such as a hopper as described above In the present embodiment, the information is read/written after a sample has been taken. In other embodiments, some or all of the information may be read/written before a sample is taken (e.g. before step 704), or concurrently with taking a sample. For example, a unique identifier for each sample may be read/written either before or after each sample is collected (but before a sample unit is output to the storage device). Any parameters relating to how the sample was taken (e.g. the sample error warning, environmental parameter or operating parameter) may be recorded after the sample is taken.

The reading and/or writing of information may comprise reading/writing a unique identifier associated with each sample unit to or from each sample unit. The reading and/or writing information may additionally or alternatively comprise storing any one or more of: i) a sample error warning, ii) an environmental parameter and/or iii) an operating parameter associated with each sample collection on the respective sample unit as discussed elsewhere herein in connection with other embodiments. The sample error warning, environmental parameter and/or operating parameter may additionally or alternatively be stored in a memory associated with the auto-sampler device in association with the unique identifier.

Various modifications will be apparent to the skilled person without departing form the scope of the claims. The embodiments described above should be understood as exemplary only. Any feature of any of the aspects or embodiments of the disclosure may be employed separately or in combination with any other feature of the same or different aspect or embodiment of the disclosure and the disclosure includes any feature or combination of features disclosed herein.

Claims (25)

1. CLAIMS1. An auto-sampler device for collecting samples in a plurality of sample units, the device comprising: a fluid injection apparatus in fluid communication with a fluid supply to be sampled, the fluid injection apparatus arranged to inject fluid from the fluid supply into each of the plurality of sample units; a feed mechanism arranged to convey a supply of sample units along a processing path through the device, the feed mechanism having one or more sample unit locations, each sample unit location arranged to releasably engage with a sample unit from the supply of sample units, wherein the processing path comprises: an engagement position at which the feed mechanism is arranged to engage with a sample unit from the supply of sample units; a sampling position at which the sample unit is aligned relative to the fluid IS injection apparatus; and a release position at which the sample unit is released from the sample unit location of the feed mechanism, the release position being different from the engagement position.
2. 2. An auto-sampler device according to claim I, wherein the feed mechanism is an indexing mechanism arranged to move the sample units between the different positions of the processing path.
3. 3. An auto-sampler device according to claim 2, wherein the indexing mechanism comprises an indexing member rotatably mounted relative to the water injection apparatus, the sample unit locations being distributed around the outer surface of the indexing member.
4. 4. An auto-sampler device according to claim 3, wherein the sample unit locations are formed by recesses in an outer surface of the indexing member, the recesses each arranged to receive a sample unit, whereby the sample unit is conveyed along the processing path by the indexing member until being released at the release position.
5. 5. An auto-sampler device according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the indexing member is driven by a Geneva drive mechanism arranged to cause intermittent rotation of the indexing member.
6. 6. An auto-sampler device according to any preceding claim, wherein the auto-sampler device is further arranged to inject a preservative into one or more of the sample units, and optionally wherein: a) the auto-sampler device further comprises a preservative injection apparatus arranged to inject a preservative into the sample units, and the processing path further comprises a preservative position following the sampling position at which the sample unit is aligned relative to the preservative injection apparatus; or b) the fluid injection apparatus is further arranged to inject the preservative into one or more of the sample units.
7. I5 7. An auto-sampler device according to any preceding claim, wherein the fluid injection apparatus comprises a pair of actuated nozzles arranged to engage with valves at either end of the sample units, and optionally one or both of: a) wherein the nozzles are each configured to engage with a corresponding valve provided on the sample unit, the valves preferably being needless valves; and/or b) wherein the fluid injection apparatus comprises a linear actuator system to which the nozzles are mounted.
8. 8. An auto-sampler device according to any preceding claim, wherein the auto-sampler device is arranged to store a mission definition including one or more mission parameters which, when read by the auto-sampler device, is used to control the operation of the auto-sampling device, wherein the mission definition preferably includes pre-defined mission parameters.
9. 9. An auto-sampler device according to claim 8, wherein the mission parameters include any one or more of: a water injection volume; whether a preservative injection is required; a preservative injection volume; a number of samples to be taken, a time separation of sample collection; and a mission duration.
10. An auto-sampler device according to any preceding claim, further comprising, or being in communication with, one or more sensors, the one or more sensors arranged to measure one or both of one or more environmental parameters associated with the environment in which the auto-sampler device is operating; and one or more operating parameters of the auto-sampler device.
11. 11 An auto-sampler device according to claim 10, wherein the auto-sampler device is configured to determine one or more sampling error warnings by comparison of each of the environmental parameters and/or operating parameters to a respective predefined threshold, and optionally wherein the auto-sampler device is arranged to log the one or more sampling error warnings in a computer readable memory, and/or operation of the auto-sampling device is controlled according to the one or more sampling error warnings.
12. 12. An auto-sampler device according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the operating parameters include any one or more of an indication of engagement between the injection system(s) and the sample unit, water flow rate, and pressure/differential pressure in the water injection apparatus
13. 13. An auto-sampler device according to any preceding claim, further comprising a sample unit information read/write device arranged to read and/or write information to or from each of the sample units.
14. 14. An auto-sampler device according to claim 13, wherein the read/write device is arranged to read and/or write a unique identifier from, or onto, each of the sample units.
15. 15. An auto-sampler device according to claim 13 or claim 14, when dependent on any of claims 10 to 12, wherein the read/write device is arranged to write any one or more of i) one or more of the sample error warnings, ii) one or more of the environmental parameters and/or iii) one or more of the operating parameters onto an associated sample unit. I516.
16. An auto-sampler device according to claim 13 or claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the read/write device comprises an RF1D chip reader/writer.
17. 17. An auto-sampler device according to any preceding claim, wherein the fluid is water, and the injection apparatus is arranged to inject water into the sample units.
18. 18. A ship, autonomous underwater vehicle or remotely operated vehicle having the auto-sampler device of any preceding claim mounted thereon or attached thereto.
19. 19. A method of auto-sampling for collecting samples in a plurality of sample units, the method comprising: a) engaging a sample unit at an engagement position; b) conveying the sample unit from the engagement position to a sampling position; c) injecting fluid into the sample unit at the sampling position in order to collect a sample; d) conveying the sample unit to a release position; and e) releasing the sample unit at the release position, the sample unit being released in a different position from which it was engaged, wherein steps a) to e) are carried out for each of the plurality of sample units.
20. 20. A method according to claim 19, wherein after injecting fluid into the sample unit, the method further comprises injecting a preservative into the sample unit, wherein the method optionally comprises: conveying the sample unit from the sampling position to a preservative position, and injecting a preservative into the sample unit; or injecting preservative into the sample unit at the sampling position.
21. 21. A method according to claim 19 or 20, wherein method steps a) to c) are controlled according to a mission definition including one or more mission parameters, the mission parameters preferably being pre-defined.
22. 22. A method according to any of claims 19 to 21, further comprising measuring, or receiving a signal indicative of, one or both of: one or more environmental parameters in which the auto-sampler device is operating and one or more operating parameters of the auto-sampler device.
23. 23. A method according to claim 22, further comprising determining one or more sampling error warnings by comparing the environmental parameters and/or operating parameters to a respective predefined threshold, and optionally further comprising logging the one or more sampling error warnings, and/or controlling the auto-sampling according to the one or more sampling error warnings.
24. 24. A method according to any of claims 19 to 23 further comprising reading and/or writing information from or onto each of the sample units, wherein optionally the information includes a unique identifier, and/or when dependent on claim 22, the information preferably includes: the one or more environmental parameters in which the auto-sampler device is operating; and/or one or more operating parameters of the I5 auto-sampler device.
25. 25. A method according to any of claims 19 to 24, wherein each conveying step comprises indexing the sample unit from one position to another in one or more intermittent steps.