Sample delivery device with pumping element for analyzers

Abstract

The present application describes a sample delivery device (150) with a pumping element for an analyzer, in particular for an analyzer (10) for analyzing a fluid sample wherein the sample delivery device (150) comprises: i) a sample receptacle (126) for receiving and / or dispensing a fluid sample; ii) a moving device (178), in particular a robot arm, for moving the sample receiver (126); and iii) a pumping element (155) arranged to be moved by the moving means (178) in order to perform and / or trigger a pumping operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sample conveying device for conveying a fluid sample, in particular for an analyzer for analyzing the fluid sample. The sample conveying device comprises a sample receiver, a moving device and a pumping element, the pumping element being arranged to be moved by the moving device in order to perform and / or trigger a pumping operation. In addition, the present invention also relates to a sample conveying device, an analyzer and a method for operating the sample conveying device. Background Art

[0002] Analytical devices, such as sample separators and the like, are intended to analyze samples, in particular fluid samples, for example for performing chromatographic separations on the samples.

[0003] In an HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) analyzer, for example, a liquid (mobile phase) moves through a so-called stationary phase (for example in a chromatographic column) at a very accurately controlled flow rate (for example in the range of microliters to milliliters per minute) and high pressure (usually 20 to 1000 bar and above, currently up to 2000 bar) (the compressibility of the liquid at high pressure can be significant) in order to separate the individual fractions of the sample liquid introduced into the mobile phase. After passing through the stationary phase, the separated fractions of the fluid sample are detected in a detector. Such an HPLC system is known, for example, from EP 0,309,596 B1 of the same applicant Agilent Technologies, Inc.

[0004] In an analyzer, usually (fluid) samples are examined, which are supplied to the actual analysis (e.g. a sample separation device) by means of an automatic sampler. Usually, the sample is received (e.g. from a sample container), transported (e.g. through a sample space) and distributed (e.g. into an injection path for the analysis domain) by means of a sample receiving device, in particular a sample needle. Often, in particular for large numbers of samples, the sample transport is automated. In this case, it may be necessary to regularly rinse or clean the sample needle. Otherwise, the samples can contaminate one another and the quality of the analysis can be significantly reduced.

[0005] Fig. 6 schematically shows a conventional sample space 200 with such a flushing system. A mechanical arm 250 moves in the sample space 200, which can deliver a fluid sample by a sample pin. In order to perform the flushing process, the sample pin is lowered downwards in the vertical direction (Z) and immersed in the flushing container 240. The flushing container 240 is coupled to a flushing solution container 243 comprising the flushing solution required for flushing. However, an actively driven pumping is necessary so that the flushing solution can be provided to the flushing container 240 to carry out the flushing process. This is usually achieved by a motor 245 (e.g., a piezoelectric drive, an electric motor), which must be additionally provided, and therefore consumes material costs, maintenance costs, and energy costs that cannot be ignored. In addition, related infrastructure (electronic equipment, cables, etc.) is also required, which also requires additional space. Summary of the invention

[0006] It may be desirable to provide an efficient and low (energy / cost) expenditure pumping operation in the context of an analyzer.

[0007] This object is achieved by the independent claims. Further embodiments are indicated by the dependent claims.

[0008] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a sample delivery device (e.g., a sampler) for delivering a fluid sample is described, which is particularly used in an analyzer (e.g., HPLC) for analyzing the fluid sample, wherein the sample delivery device comprises:

[0009] i) a sample receiver (or a sample receiver volume; for example a sample needle or a sample loop) for receiving and / or dispensing (or transporting) a fluid sample,

[0010] ii) (sample) moving means (particularly a robot) for moving the sample receiver (e.g. the sample needle is moved by the robot), and

[0011] iii) a pumping element (e.g. a piston-shaped component) which is arranged to be moved by the moving device so as to (simultaneously with the movement) perform a pumping operation (or to exert a direct pumping action, in particular at least as part of a pump) and / or to trigger (or to exert an indirect pumping action, in particular to trigger such an action by moving the pumping element).

[0012] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a sample delivery device is described, comprising:

[0013] i) a sample delivery device as described above, and

[0014] ii) a pumping device (e.g. a pumping volume for a pumping element) which is arranged to interact directly or indirectly with the pumping element when the moving device moves (in particular in the vertical (Z) direction) so that a pumping operation (e.g. the pumping element acts as a piston in the pumping volume of the pumping device) is performed and / or triggered.

[0015] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an analyzer for analyzing a fluid sample (eg to be injected into a mobile phase) is provided, wherein the analyzer comprises at least one sample transport device and / or sample transport apparatus as described above.

[0016] According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a use of a (sample) movement device, in particular a robot arm, of an analyzer for performing and / or triggering a pumping operation is described.

[0017] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating a sample transport device (e.g. as described above) is described, the method comprising:

[0018] i) delivering a fluid sample through a sample receiver (device) of a sample delivery device, in particular for use in an analyzer for analyzing the fluid sample,

[0019] ii) a moving device, in particular a robot arm, for moving the sample transport device, and thereby

[0020] iii) A pumping operation is performed and / or triggered by a pumping element of the sample delivery device.

[0021] In the context of the present application, the term "(sample) movement device" may be understood in particular to mean a component or assembly that can perform at least one movement, in particular a rotational movement, for example in order to mechanically move another component (e.g. a sample needle) arranged on a movement device of the cantilever type. Alternatively or additionally, the sample movement device may be designed to perform at least one translational and / or rotational movement, for example to vertically lift or lower a sample receiver (device) and / or a pumping element.

[0022] In the context of the present application, the term "pumping element" may be understood to refer in particular to a component or assembly configured to be associated with a pumping operation, in particular to trigger such a pumping operation or to perform a pumping operation itself. In one example, the pumping element is associated with a mobile device, in particular, arranged / attached to the mobile device. Therefore, the pumping element can move (in a horizontal and / or vertical direction) together with the mobile device (simultaneously). In one example, the pumping element can realize the function of a pump piston, which is pressed into an associated pump chamber (e.g., the volume of the pumping device), thereby realizing a pumping operation. The volume of the pumping device can also be coupled to a fluid inlet and / or a fluid outlet, so that the fluid can be pumped through the volume of the pumping device by a pumping action. However, in one example, the pumping element itself may also have a pump volume, which is pressed onto the pumping device when moved by the mobile device, and the pumping device then realizes the piston function.

[0023] In the context of the present application, the term "fluid" is particularly understood to mean liquids and / or gases optionally comprising solid particles.

[0024] In the context of the present application, the term "fluid sample" is particularly understood to mean a medium, more particularly a liquid, like a protein solution, a drug sample or the like, containing the actual substance to be analyzed (eg a biological sample).

[0025] In the context of the present application, the term "mobile phase" is particularly understood to refer to a fluid, particularly a liquid, used as a carrier medium for conveying a fluid sample between a fluid driver and a sample separation device. However, the mobile phase can also be used in a fluid conveying device to influence the fluid sample. For example, the mobile phase can be a solvent (e.g., organic and / or inorganic) or a solvent composition (e.g., water and ethanol).

[0026] In the context of the present application, the term "analyser" may particularly denote a device capable of and configured to analyze, particularly separate, a fluid sample, more particularly separate it into different fractions. For example, such sample separation may be performed by chromatography or electrophoresis. Preferably, the analyzer may be a liquid chromatography sample separation device.

[0027] In the context of the present application, the term "sample needle" may be understood in particular to mean a hollow body having an inner cavity or a through hole through which a fluid sample may pass. In particular, the fluid sample may be introduced (e.g. aspirated) into the sample manipulation device and / or removed (e.g. discharged) from the sample manipulation device through the inner cavity or through hole. The sample needle may be elongated and rotationally symmetrical and may thus have an axis of symmetry.

[0028] According to an exemplary embodiment, the present invention can be based on the idea that a pumping operation can be provided efficiently and (energy / cost) advantageously in the context of an analyzer if a sample transport device is provided with a mobile device that is not only coupled to a sample receiver but also to a pumping element, and wherein the sample receiver is moved by the mobile device so that the pumping element can also be moved by the mobile device. This allows the kinetic energy of the mobile device to be used not only for manipulating the sample (receiving, transporting, dispensing), but also for simultaneously performing / triggering a pumping operation by the pumping element. In this way, an additional pump including a drive unit (see FIG. 6 ) is no longer required, since this function is performed by the drive of the mobile device. Thus, material costs, energy costs and maintenance costs are saved, while less space is required.

[0029] In other words, existing drives in the sample space (autosampler), such as motors for moving the axes of the mobile device (robot arm), etc., can also be used to drive the pumping device. This means that the separate drives previously used for these pumping devices can be omitted. In practice, in particular flushing / washing pumps (usually designed as peristaltic pumps) can be operated in this way. With this configuration, only the actual pump unit or pumping element is required. The pump drive and the facilities required for the drive can be omitted.

[0030] Exemplary Embodiments

[0031] According to an embodiment, the pumping element has an elongated portion having a preferred direction (extension in one spatial direction is significantly greater than in another or two other spatial directions) oriented in particular in the vertical direction (z). This allows the pumping element to perform / trigger a pumping operation (pumping action) directly by moving in the vertical direction (parallel to gravity) by means of a moving device. For example, the pumping element can be designed as a rod, column or piston with a circular, rectangular, triangular or polygonal cross-section. A variety of configurations are possible, but in each case movement in the vertical direction can produce a pumping effect. In one example, a syringe pump / dosing pump can be implemented by moving the pumping element.

[0032] According to an embodiment, the pumping element has a planar portion arranged at the end of the elongated portion, in particular wherein the preferential direction of the elongated portion and the preferential direction of the planar portion are perpendicular to each other. In this example, the pumping element is shaped like a piston, so that a piston pump can be realized by moving the pumping element.

[0033] According to an embodiment, the movement for performing and / or triggering the pumping operation comprises a movement in the direction of gravity (z). Typically, the sample receiver (in particular as a sample needle) moves in the vertical direction when receiving / dispensing a sample or performing a flushing process. Preferably, the movement of the pumping element is coupled to the movement of the sample receiver so that the movement is also along the vertical axis. Gravity can have a supporting effect, in particular during descent.

[0034] According to an embodiment, the pumping element is arranged to perform a pumping operation when a corresponding pumping device is inserted, for example in the form of a pump piston in a pump volume, so that a piston pump is provided. The pumping device can be the counterpart of the pumping element, whereby the interaction of the two elements provides a pump (for example the above-mentioned piston pump or injection pump). In one example, the pumping device also has an (elongated) preferential direction (along the Z-axis). Preferably, the main extension directions of the pumping element and the pumping device can be oriented (substantially) parallel to each other. Although in the first example, the pumping device represents the receiving element (pumping volume), in the second example, the pumping device can be the element to be introduced, while the pumping element (on the mobile device) is formed as a receiving element.

[0035] According to an embodiment, the pumping element is arranged to perform / trigger a pumping operation upon interaction with a coupling device, in particular a sample plate. In addition to the direct pumping action of the pumping element as part of the pump, the moving pumping element may also indirectly perform or trigger pumping. The coupling device may refer to a device on which the pumping element may act (via a coupling portion) to trigger a pumping operation. In an exemplary embodiment, the coupling device is formed as a sample plate, i.e. a sample stage on which the sample container and / or a sample container carrier may be arranged.

[0036] In one example, the sample plate is formed to be rotatable (particularly in a horizontal plane). This rotation is usually driven by a motor, but the movement of the pumping element (and the coupling with the sample plate) can also cause this rotation. The rotational movement can perform a pumping operation via further coupling with a pumping device (e.g., motor rotation).

[0037] According to an embodiment, the sample transport device further comprises: at least one drive (e.g. an electric motor) coupled to the mobile device and arranged to move the mobile device in a vertical direction (Z axis) and / or a horizontal direction (X, Y plane). Such drives, e.g. drives for robot arms / sample arms, are known and established in the field of analyzers. Therefore, the technology can be used directly and robustly. Advantageously, the drive can move the pumping element (essentially) without additional energy input. In an exemplary embodiment, the Z drive of the robot is used to drive the piston pump.

[0038] According to an embodiment, the pumping element is arranged such that the pressure action and / or the pumping action of the pumping element is (substantially) parallel to the gravity direction (z). As described above, such a movement can be coupled particularly efficiently with the movement of the moving device with respect to the sample needle. Preferably, the pumping element is pressed into the pumping device (its receiving volume) in order to provide the pumping action.

[0039] According to an embodiment, the pumping element comprises at least one of the following materials: plastic, metal, ceramic. Depending on the desired application, different established and reliable materials may be preferred.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the sample receiver has a needle device, in particular wherein the needle device has a sample needle having a lumen for passing a fluid sample. In another embodiment, the sample receiver is formed as a sample loop.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the pumping device has a pump volume, which is arranged so that the pumping element can be at least partially inserted into the pump volume in order to thereby perform a pumping operation, in particular as a piston pump or a syringe pump. This makes it possible to temporarily provide a pump without having to provide an additional pump or an associated drive. In another example, the pumping element has a pump volume into which the pumping device is inserted during a pumping operation. By moving the moving device, the pumping element can be moved into or out of the pump volume two or more times in order to perform a plurality of pumping operations in succession.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises: a flushing device, which is arranged to at least partially receive the sample receptacle for performing a flushing process. According to an embodiment, the flushing device is in particular fluidically coupled to the pumping device, such that the pumping operation provides a fluid, in particular a flushing solution, to the flushing device. In other words, for example, the sample needle can be inserted into the (elongated) flushing volume. The flushing solution is then actively pumped into the flushing volume in order to perform the flushing process.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the device further comprises: a coupling device, in particular a rotatable sample plate, and a pump coupling for coupling the coupling device to the pumping device. According to an embodiment, the sample transport device is arranged such that the pumping element activates the coupling device, in particular rotates it, and triggers a pumping operation in the pumping device via the pump coupling.

[0044] According to an embodiment, the device further comprises: a spring element, which is arranged to apply tension to the pumping element. For example, the spring element can advantageously bias the pumping element during movement (pressing down) into the pumping device. Then, when the bias is released, the pumping element can automatically return to the starting position. This can make the described application more flexible.

[0045] According to an embodiment, the sample transport device is formed as a sample (processing) space, in particular as a sampler / (auto)sampler. This allows the described sample transport apparatus to be directly integrated into established and widely used systems.

[0046] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises: moving the movement device, in particular in a vertical direction (z), to perform an action; and simultaneously performing and / or triggering a pumping operation, wherein the pumping operation is associated with the action.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the action comprises flushing, in particular flushing the sample receiving device. This illustrative embodiment has been described above and also in Figures 1 to 4D . However, in addition to flushing, many other actions may be performed, which are coupled to the movement of the moving device and thereby also enable the pumping element (and the associated pumping) to move. In one embodiment, the action involves flushing of the needle seat (the sample device injects the received sample into the needle seat). The pumping operation may direct / flow the flushing solution to the needle seat in a similar manner.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the pumping element is moved into the pump volume, in particular as a piston pump / syringe pump / dosing pump, so that a pumping operation is performed.

[0049] According to another embodiment, the pumping element is moved to the coupling element so that the pumping operation is triggered by the coupling element, in particular in the case where the coupling element has a sample plate that is in particular rotatable. In another embodiment, the drive for rotating the sample plate is also used to drive the flushing pump, so that the drive (and electrical connection) of the existing peristaltic pump is no longer required.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the invention makes it possible to dispense with a previous separate drive of the pumping device. In an embodiment, a flushing / washing pump (usually designed as a peristaltic pump) can in particular be operated in this way.

[0051] In one embodiment, an additional flushing pump (see Fig. 6) can be replaced by a simple piston pump, particularly a syringe pump. The syringe pump can be mounted vertically to the Z axis of the sample arm. It is driven by moving the sample arm in the Z direction, whereby the piston is mechanically coupled to the sample arm. If the arm moves upward, (flushing) liquid can be received in the piston chamber. The liquid is pumped into the system by lowering the sample arm. For this purpose, a suitable valve configuration, such as consisting of two check valves downstream of the pump inlet / outlet, is also advantageous. The pump can be coupled to the sample arm, for example, by a suitable clamping device.

[0052] According to an embodiment, the analyzer is formed as a sample separation device. According to an embodiment, the analyzer has a fluid driver for driving a mobile phase and a fluid sample injected into the mobile phase. According to an embodiment, the analyzer has a sample separation device for separating a fluid sample injected into the mobile phase. According to an embodiment, the analyzer is configured to analyze at least one physical, chemical and / or biological parameter of the fluid sample. According to an embodiment, the analyzer is configured as a sample separation device for separating a fluid sample.

[0053] In the context of the present application, the term "sample separation device" may be understood to refer in particular to a device for analyzing a fluid sample into, in particular, different fractions. For this purpose, the components of the fluid sample may first be adsorbed on the sample separation device and then desorbed individually (in particular fraction by fraction). For example, such a sample separation device may be designed as a chromatographic separation column.

[0054] According to an embodiment, the analyzer is a chromatography apparatus, in particular a liquid chromatography apparatus, a gas chromatography apparatus, a SFC (supercritical fluid chromatography) apparatus or a HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) apparatus.

[0055] According to an embodiment, the analyzer is configured as a microfluidic device. According to an embodiment, the analyzer is configured as a nanofluidic device.

[0056] According to an embodiment, the sample separation device is formed as a chromatographic separation device, in particular as a chromatographic separation column.

[0057] According to an embodiment, the fluid drive is configured to drive the mobile phase and the fluid sample under high pressure.

[0058] According to an embodiment, the fluid drive is configured to drive the mobile phase and the fluid sample at a pressure of at least 500 bar, in particular at least 1000 bar, more in particular at least 1200 bar.

[0059] According to an exemplary embodiment, the analyzer has a detector for detecting the analyzed, in particular separated, fluid sample.

[0060] According to an embodiment, the analyzer has a fractionator for fractionating the fluid sample into separate fractions.

[0061] The analyzer may be a microfluidic meter, a life science device, a liquid chromatography device, a gas chromatography device, an HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) device, a UHPLC system or a SFC (Supercritical Fluid Chromatography) device. However, many other applications are possible.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the sample separation device can be designed as a chromatographic separation device, in particular a chromatographic separation column. In the case of chromatographic separation, the chromatographic separation column can be provided with an adsorption medium. The fluid sample can be retained on the medium and then released fraction by fraction in the presence of a specific solvent composition, thereby separating the sample into its fractions.

[0063] For example, a pump system for pumping fluids may be arranged to convey fluids or mobile phases through the system at high pressures (eg, at pressures ranging from several hundred bar to 1000 bar and higher).

[0064] The analyzer can have a sample injector for introducing a sample into a fluid separation path. Such a sample injector can have a sample or injection needle, which can be coupled to a needle seat in a corresponding fluid path, so that the sample needle can move out of the needle seat to take a sample. After the sample needle is reinserted into the needle seat, the sample can be located in a fluid path, which can be switched, for example, by a switching valve into the separation path of the system. In another embodiment of the present invention, a sample injector or a sampler can use a sample needle that operates without a needle seat.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the needle device can have a sample receiving volume, in particular a sample loop, fluidically coupled to the sample needle. In particular, this can be understood to mean a capillary piece, inside which a receiving volume for receiving a defined amount of a fluid sample is formed.

[0066] The analyzer may have a fraction collector for collecting the separated components. Such a fraction collector may, for example, introduce the various components of the separated sample into different liquid containers. However, the analyzed sample may also be fed into a waste container.

[0067] Preferably, the analyzer may include a detector for detecting the separated components.Such a detector may generate a signal that may be observed and / or recorded and indicates the presence and amount of sample components in a fluid flowing through the system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0068] Other objects and many attendant advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent and better understood by referring to the following more detailed description of the embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals will be given to features that are substantially or functionally the same or similar.

[0069] Figure 1 An analyzer according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown as a chromatography device.

[0070] Figure 2 A sample delivery device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0071] Figure 3A-3B and Figures 4A-4D Execution of a pumping operation in a sample delivery device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0072] Figure 5 The triggering of a pumping operation in a sample delivery device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated.

[0073] FIG. 6 schematically shows a conventional sample space for flushing a sample needle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] The illustrations in the drawings are schematic.

[0075] Figure 1 The basic structure of the HPLC system is shown as an example of an analyzer 10 designed as a sample separation device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which can be used for liquid chromatography, for example. A fluid delivery device or fluid driver 20 supplied with solvent from a supply device 25 drives the mobile phase through a sample separation device 30 (such as a chromatographic column, etc.) containing a stationary phase. The supply device 25 includes a first fluid component source 113 for providing a first fluid or solvent component A (such as water) and a second fluid component source 111 for providing another, second fluid or solvent component B (such as an organic solvent). An optional degasser 27 can degas the solvents provided by the first fluid component source 113 and the second fluid component source 111 before supplying them to the fluid driver 20. The sample delivery unit, which may also be referred to as an injector 40, is arranged between the fluid drive 20 and the sample separation device 30 to initially receive a sample fluid or a fluid sample from a sample container 130 into a sample receiving volume 196 in an injector path 195 (shown only schematically), and subsequently introduce it into the fluid separation path 124 between the fluid drive 20 and the sample separation device 30 by switching an injection valve 90 of the injector 40. The fluid sample can be received from the sample container 130 in particular by moving the sample needle 126 out of the needle seat / sample seat 134 and into the sample container 130, aspirating the fluid sample from the sample container 130 through the sample needle 126 into the sample receiving volume 196 by a fluid transfer device designed as a metering device, and then moving the sample needle 126 back into the needle seat 134.

[0076] The stationary phase of the sample separation device 30 is intended to separate the components of the sample. A detector 50, which may include a flow cell, detects the separated components of the sample. A fractionation device or fractionator 60 may be provided to discharge the separated components of the sample into a container provided for this purpose. Liquid that is no longer needed may be discharged into a discharge container or waste line.

[0077] When the liquid path between the fluid drive 20 and the sample separation device 30 is typically under high pressure, the sample fluid under normal pressure is first introduced into the sample loop or sample receiving volume of the sample introduction unit or injector 40, which is separated from the fluid path. The sample liquid is then introduced into the high-pressure separation path 124. The sample loop (also called sample loop) as a sample receiving volume can be understood as a section of a fluid pipeline formed to receive or temporarily store a predetermined amount of a fluid sample. Preferably, even before the sample fluid in the sample receiving volume initially under normal pressure is switched into the high-pressure separation path 124, the contents of the sample receiving volume 132 are brought to the system pressure of the analyzer 10 formed as HPLC by a metering device in the form of a fluid delivery device. The control device 70 controls the individual components 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 90, etc. of the analyzer 10.

[0078] Figure 1 Two supply lines 171, 173 are shown, each of which is fluidically coupled to a respective one of two solvent containers, represented as fluid component sources 113, 111, to provide a respective one of the fluid or solvent components A and B. The respective fluid or the respective solvent component A or B is conveyed through the respective supply line 171 or 173, through the degasser 27 to the proportional valve 87 as a proportional device, where the fluid or solvent components A or B from the supply lines 171, 173 are combined with each other. Therefore, the fluid packets from the supply lines 171, 173 flow together at the proportional valve 87 to form a uniform solvent composition. The latter is then fed to the fluid driver 20.

[0079] During operation of the analyzer 10 and in particular the injector 40, the injection valve 90 is switched by the control device 70 to inject the fluid sample from the sample receiving volume 132 into the mobile phase in the separation path 124 between the fluid drive 20 and the sample separation device 30 of the analyzer 10. This switching of the injection valve 90 is performed in order to achieve a relative movement between a first valve body (which may be a stator stationary relative to the laboratory system) and a second valve body (which may be a rotor capable of rotating relative to the laboratory system) of the injection valve 90. The first valve body may be provided with a plurality of ports and may optionally be provided with one or more slot-shaped connection structures. On the other hand, the second valve body may be provided with preferably several slot-shaped connection structures so as to selectively couple or decouple with a corresponding one of the ports of the first valve body according to the corresponding relative orientation between the first valve body and the second valve body through at least one connection structure of the second valve body. Schematically, in certain switching states of the injection valve 90, the corresponding slot-shaped connection structure of the second valve body may fluidly connect two (or more) ports of the first valve body to each other, and may form a fluid decoupling between other ports of the first valve body. In this way, the various components of the injection valve 90 can enter an adjustable state of fluid coupling (decoupling) with each other according to the corresponding operating state of the injector 40.

[0080] The analyzer 10 is also coupled to or includes a sample transport device 100. In this example, the sample transport device 100 is formed as a sample space (sampler). The fluid sample is stored in a sample container 130. A sample transport device 150 is arranged in the sample space, which as an active device can be moved in the sample space by a drive, which is implemented as an electric motor (drive 128), for example. In this way, it is possible to automatically remove and transport the fluid sample from the sample container 130.

[0081] The sample transport device 150 is arranged to transport a fluid sample and comprises: a sample receiver 126 for receiving and / or dispensing a fluid sample. In particular, the sample receiver 126 has a sample receiver volume and is formed as a sample needle, which can absorb the fluid sample and store it (also during transport). The sample transport device 150 also has a moving device 178, which is formed as a mechanical arm for moving the sample receiver 126. In the example shown, the sample needle 126 is coupled to the moving device 178 and can therefore be moved / displaced in the horizontal direction (XY plane) and in the vertical direction (Z). In addition, the sample transport device 150 has a pumping element 155, which is attached to the moving device 178 and is arranged to be moved by the moving device 178 so as to perform and / or trigger a pumping operation while the moving device 178 moves.

[0082] The sample needle 126 is connected to the sample receiving volume 196, thereby providing a portion of the fluid path 195. As described above, through the sample needle 126, a fluid sample can be drawn from the sample container 130 into the sample receiving volume 196, and after being transported through the sample space in the needle seat 134, can be fed into the further fluid path 195 of the analyzer 10.

[0083] The sample transport device 100 further comprises (particularly in the sample space) a pumping device 145, which is arranged to interact directly or indirectly with the pumping element 155 when the moving device 178 moves, so that a pumping operation is performed and / or triggered (schematically shown by the movement of the sample transport device in the Z direction). The pumping device 145 has a pumping volume (here a cavity) which is arranged so that the pumping element 155 (here designed as a piston) can be at least partially inserted into the pumping volume in order to thereby perform a pumping operation (as the piston moves in the piston chamber).

[0084] The sample delivery device 100 further comprises a flushing device 140, which is arranged to at least partially receive the sample receiver 126 for a flushing process, so as to then flush the sample needle 126. The flushing device 140 is fluidically coupled to a pumping device 145, so that the pumping operation provides a flushing solution to the flushing device 140, thereby flushing the sample needle 126. Figure 2 Describe this method in detail.

[0085] Figure 2 It is shown in detail as already described for Figure 1 The sample delivery device 100 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described, wherein: Figure 2 The example focuses on the flushing process (rather than Figure 1 The moving device 178 (here a cantilever or a robotic arm) is coupled to the sample needle 126 as a sample receiver, and moves in the horizontal direction so that the sample needle 126 is positioned above the flushing device 140. In order to flush the sample needle 126, the moving device 178 is lowered in the vertical direction (Z) so that the sample needle 126 is inserted into the receiving volume of the flushing device 140.

[0086] For the actual flushing, the flushing solution is now fed from the flushing solution container 143 into the flushing device 140. This is conventionally done by means of an additional pump (see FIG. 6 ). However, according to the invention, this flushing process is solved efficiently and cost-effectively without further energy consumption: the pumping element 155 coupled to the mobile device 178 (attached to the latter) acts as a pump piston, and the lowering of the sample transport device 150 provides the necessary kinetic energy for the pumping operation. When the sample needle 126 is located above the flushing device 140, the pumping element 155 is also located above the pumping device 145. If the mobile device 178 is lowered at this time, the pumping element 155 is pressed into the pump volume of the pumping device 145 and acts like a pump piston in a pump chamber.

[0087] In other words, the movement of the sample delivery device 150 simultaneously moves the pumping element 155, so that a pumping operation is performed by the pumping element 155. The pumping operation draws out the flushing solution from the flushing solution container 143 and allows it to flow into the flushing device 140, thereby actively flushing the sample needle 126. During the flushing process, the sample delivery device 150 can move up / down several times in the Z direction, so that several pumping operations can be performed. The up and down movement of the sample needle 126 can facilitate the flushing process, for example, by providing a flowing fluid.

[0088] Figure 3A-3B and Figures 4A-4D The execution of the pumping operation in the sample delivery device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Here, the described method is implemented in the real sample space. Through the drive 128, the cantilever 178 can be moved in the horizontal and vertical directions as a moving device. The head of the moving device 178 is coupled to a pushing device, which surrounds the sample needle 126 and is used to separate the sample container (after the sample is aspirated). The pushing element 155 is attached to the side of the moving device 178, for example, and can be biased by a spring (not shown).

[0089] Figure 3A : In this plan view (along the Z axis), it is shown that the sample delivery device 150 is positioned so that the sample needle 126 is arranged above the sample container 130 instead of above the flushing device 140. In addition, in this configuration, the pumping element 155 is not arranged above the pumping device 145.

[0090] Figure 3B : In this side view, although the pumping element 155 is arranged above the pumping device 145, the pumping element 155 is decoupled from the sample transport device (in particular, the movement device 178 with the sample needle 126).

[0091] Figure 4A : The following configuration is shown in this plan view (along the Z axis), wherein the sample delivery device 150 and Figure 2 Similarly positioned: the sample needle 126 is positioned above the flushing device 140 (not above the sample container 130 ), and the pumping element 155 is positioned above the pumping device 145 .

[0092] Figure 4B : Combined Figure 3B For example, the pumping element 155 can now be coupled to the sample delivery device 150 so that the pumping element 155 delivers through the sample delivery device 150.

[0093] Figure 4C : In this configuration, the moving device 178 has been lowered in the Z direction. At this time, the sample needle 126 is inserted into the flushing device 140, and the pumping element 155 is pressed into the pumping device 145, so that the above-mentioned pumping operation is performed, which provides the flushing solution to the flushing device 140. Therefore, the pumping operation does not require additional devices and additional energy.

[0094] In other words, the robot 178 is positioned above the wash port 140, and then the Z axis is driven, and the robot 178 moves downward into the wash port 140. During the movement, the piston pump (syringe pump) 155 is driven and pressed downward by the robot 178. This generates a solution flow for flushing in the wash port 140.

[0095] Figure 4D : After the flushing process, the moving device 178 moves upward again. As a result, the sample needle 126 is sent out of the flushing device 140, and the pumping element 155 is sent out of the pumping device 145.

[0096] Figure 5 Schematically illustrates the triggering of the pumping operation in the sample delivery device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figures 2 to 4D Unlike the example of , the pumping operation here is not performed directly by the pumping element 155 but is triggered by it. In this example, the sample transport device 100 has a sample plate 160, on which the sample containers or sample container carriers are in turn arranged. The sample plate can also be rotated around a vertical axis in a horizontal plane. The sample plate 160 acts as a coupling device, to which the pumping element 155 (when moved by the sample transport device 150) can be coupled. For example, the pumping element 155 can be pressed onto the sample plate 160 so that a rotational movement (with or without the drive of the rotating plate motor) is triggered.

[0097] The sample transport device 100 further includes a pump coupling 165 between the coupling device 160 and the pumping device 145 . Here, the pumping element 155 can rotate the coupling device 160 and trigger a pumping operation in the pumping device 145 via the pump coupling 165 .

[0098] Reference numerals list

[0099] 10 Analyzer

[0100] 20 Fluid Drive

[0101] 25 Supply device

[0102] 27 Degasser

[0103] 30 Sample separation device

[0104] 40 Injector

[0105] 50 Detector

[0106] 60 Fractionator

[0107] 70 Control device

[0108] 87 Proportional valve

[0109] 90 Injection valve

[0110] 100 Sample delivery equipment

[0111] 111 Second fluid component source

[0112] 113 first fluid component source

[0113] 124 Fluid separation path

[0114] 126 Sample receiver (device), sample needle

[0115] 128 Driver

[0116] 134 Needle Seat

[0117] 140 Flushing device, other functions

[0118] 142 fluid coupling portion

[0119] 143 Rinse solution container

[0120] 145 Pumping device

[0121] 150 Sample transport device

[0122] 155 Pumping elements

[0123] 160 coupling device, sample plate

[0124] 165 Pump coupling

[0125] 171 First supply line

[0126] 173 Second supply line

[0127] 178 mobile device, robotic arm

[0128] 192 pin housing

[0129] 195 Injector Path

[0130] 196 Sample receiving volume

[0131] Prior art

[0132] 200 Sample Space

[0133] 240 Rinse container

[0134] 243 Rinse solution container

[0135] 245 Motor

[0136] 250 Robotic Arm

Claims

1. A sample transport device (150) for transporting a fluid sample, wherein the sample transport device (150) is particularly used in an analyzer (10), wherein the analyzer (10) is used to analyze the fluid sample, wherein: The sample transport device (150) comprises: a sample receiver (126) for receiving and / or dispensing the fluid sample; a moving device (178), in particular a robot arm, for moving the sample receiver (126); and A pumping element (155) is arranged to be moved by said moving device (178) in order to perform and / or trigger a pumping operation.

2. The sample transport device (150) according to claim 1, in, The pumping element (155) comprises an elongated portion having a preferential direction, in particular oriented in the vertical direction (z).

3. The sample transport device (150) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The pumping element (155) comprises a planar portion disposed at the end of the elongated portion, In particular, the preferential direction of the elongated portion and the preferential direction of the planar portion are arranged perpendicular to each other.

4. The sample transport device (150) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The movement to perform and / or trigger the pumping operation comprises movement in the direction of gravity (z).

5. The sample transport device (150) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The pumping element (155) is arranged to perform the pumping operation when introduced into a corresponding pumping device (145), in particular in the form of a piston pump and / or a syringe pump; and / or Therein, the pumping element (155) is arranged to trigger the pumping operation upon interaction with a coupling device (160), in particular a sample plate.

6. The sample delivery device (150) according to any one of the above claims, further comprising: A drive (128) is coupled to the moving device (178) and is arranged to move the moving device (178) in a vertical direction (z) and / or a horizontal direction (x, y).

7. The sample transport device (150) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one of the following features: in, The pumping element (155) is arranged such that the pressure action and / or pumping action of the pumping element (155) occurs substantially parallel to the direction of gravity (z); Wherein, the pumping element (155) comprises at least one of the following materials: plastic, metal, ceramic; The sample receiver (126) comprises a needle assembly, and in particular, the needle assembly comprises a sample needle (126), wherein the sample needle (126) has an inner cavity (197) for allowing the fluid sample to pass therethrough.

8. A sample delivery device (100), comprising: A sample transport device (150) according to any one of the preceding claims; and A pumping device (145) is arranged to interact directly or indirectly with the pumping element (155) when the moving device (178) moves so that a pumping operation is performed and / or triggered.

9. The sample delivery device (100) according to claim 8, in, The pumping device (145) comprises a pump volume arranged such that the pumping element (155) can be at least partially inserted into the pump volume in order to thereby perform the pumping operation.

10. The sample transport device (100) according to claim 8 or 9, Also includes: a flushing device (140) arranged to at least partially receive the sample receiver (126) for a flushing process; and Therein, the flushing device (140) is coupled, in particular fluidically coupled, to the pumping device (145), such that the pumping operation supplies a fluid, in particular a flushing solution, to the flushing device (140).

11. The sample delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, further comprising: a coupling device (160), in particular a rotatable sample plate, and a pump coupling portion (165) coupling the coupling device (160) to the pumping device (145); Therein, the sample delivery device (100) is arranged so that the pumping element (155) activates the coupling device (160), in particular rotates it, and triggers the pumping operation in the pumping device (145) via the pump coupling portion (165).

12. The sample delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 8 to 11, further comprising: A spring element is arranged to apply tension to the pumping element (155).

13. The sample transport device (100) according to any one of claims 8 to 12, in, The sample transport device (100) is formed as a sample processing chamber, in particular as an autosampler.

14. An analyzer (10) for analyzing a fluid sample, in particular to be injected into a mobile phase, wherein: The analyzer (10) comprises at least one sample transport device (150) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 or a sample transport apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 8 to 13.

15. The analyzer (10) of claim 14, further comprising at least one of the following features: The analyzer (10) is formed as a sample separation device; The analyzer (10) includes a fluid driver (20) for driving a mobile phase and a fluid sample injected into the mobile phase; The analyzer (10) comprises a sample separation device (30) for separating the fluid sample injected into the mobile phase; The analyzer (10) is configured to analyze at least one physical, chemical and / or biological parameter of the fluid sample; The analyzer (10) is configured as a sample separation device for separating the fluid sample; The analyzer (10) is a chromatographic device, in particular a liquid chromatography device, a gas chromatography device, an SFC (supercritical fluid chromatography) device or an HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) device; The analyzer (10) is configured as a microfluidic device; The analyzer (10) is configured as a nanofluidic device; The sample separation device (30) is formed as a chromatographic analysis separation device, in particular a chromatographic analysis separation column; The fluid driver (20) is configured to drive the mobile phase and the fluid sample under high pressure; The fluid driver (20) is configured to drive the mobile phase and the fluid sample at a pressure of at least 500 bar, in particular at least 1000 bar, more particularly at least 1200 bar; The analyzer (10) comprises a detector (50) for detecting the analyzed, in particular separated, fluid sample; The analyzer (10) includes a fractionator (60) for fractionating separated fractions of the fluid sample.

16. Use of a sample movement device (155), in particular a robotic arm, of an analyzer (10) for performing and / or triggering a pumping operation.

17. A method of operating a sample delivery device (150), the method comprising: The fluid sample is transported through the sample receiver (126) of the sample transport device (150), in particular for use in an analyzer (10), wherein the analyzer (10) is used to analyze the fluid sample; A moving device (178), in particular a robotic arm, for moving the sample transport device (150); and thus The pumping operation is performed and / or triggered by a pumping element (155) of the sample delivery device (150).

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising: Particularly, the moving device (178) is moved in a vertical direction (z) to perform the action; and at the same time The pumping operation is performed and / or triggered, wherein the pumping operation is associated with the action.

19. The method according to claim 18, in, The action includes flushing, in particular flushing the sample receiving device (126) and / or another device, further in particular the needle seat (134).

20. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 19, in, The pumping element (155) is moved into the pump volume so that the pumping operation is thereby performed; and / or Therein, the pumping element (155) is moved to the coupling element (160) so that the pumping operation is triggered by the coupling element (160), in particular wherein the coupling element (160) comprises a sample plate, in particular a rotatable sample plate.

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