Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a sample preparation apparatus for grinding or homogenizing test samples. More specifically, the disclosure relates to grinding samples using rotational and linear motion. Grinding samples can be accomplished with an apparatus with a slider-crank mechanism that is attached to an oscillating connecting linkage. The amplitude of oscillatory motion can be greater than or equal to a length of a sample processing chamber.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are devices, apparatuses, and methods for grinding of samples. A method includes securing a sample vial in a holder attached to a connecting linkage, the sample vial having a grinding media in the sample vial. The method includes rotating a crank that is operatively coupled to a proximal end of the connecting linkage at a proximal pivot point so that the proximal pivot point undergoes rotational motion. The method includes restricting a distal pivot point of the connecting linkage to a linear path, the distal pivot point near a distal end of the connecting linkage. A result being that the sample vial undergoes a combination of rotational and linear motion.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are devices, apparatuses, and methods for generating a reciprocating motion for the purpose of grinding or homogenizing samples. An apparatus includes a connecting linkage that extends along a longitudinal axis. The apparatus includes a sample vial holder attached to the connecting linkage. The apparatus includes a crank operatively connected to the proximal end of the connecting linkage, the crank configured to impart rotational motion to the proximal end of the connecting linkage. The apparatus includes a sliding carriage operatively connected to the distal end of the connecting linkage, the sliding carriage configured to restrict the distal end of the connecting linkage to a linear path. The apparatus includes a motor operatively connected to the crank to rotate the crank such that the sample vial holder, in use, moves with a combination of rotational and linear motion.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a sample preparation apparatus for grinding or homogenizing test samples. More specifically, but without restriction to the particular embodiments hereinafter described in accordance with the best mode of practice, this invention relates to a reciprocating apparatus based upon a slider-crank mechanism for grinding or homogenizing of a sample within a sample vial attached to an oscillating connecting linkage that has an amplitude of oscillatory motion equal to or greater than the length of the sample processing chamber.