Liquid chromatography column holder

Abstract

An apparatus for holding a chromatographic column includes a first clamp attachable to the fixed rail, the first clamp configured to hold a first end of a chromatographic column in a fixed position relative to the fixed rail within a space of the fixed rail, the first post clamp includes a body structure and at least one protrusion extending from the body structure, the at least one protrusion sized to fit within at least one channel of a wall structure of the fixed rail. The body structure is made of an elastically deformable material configured to be compressed manually such that the at least one outwardly extending protrusion can be inserted into the at least one channel, after which the body structure is configured to expand to retain the first clamp within the wall structure of the fixed track.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of the earlier filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 441,904, filed on January 30, 2023, and entitled “Liquid Chromatography Column Holder,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to liquid chromatography. More particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus and system for holding a liquid chromatography column. Background Art

[0004] Liquid chromatography allows for the rapid and efficient separation and characterization of analytes within a given sample. Components of a liquid chromatography system (e.g., a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system or an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) system) include a high-pressure pump that facilitates the movement of an aqueous phase through the system. The aqueous phase (or mobile phase) comprises a solvent for initially balancing the liquid chromatography system. The solvent also provides an aqueous environment for the analyte, enabling it to traverse the entire liquid chromatography system. Finally, the mobile phase comprises a solvent that elutes the analyte from the liquid chromatography column.

[0005] Another component of a liquid chromatography system is the chromatographic separation column. The column contains a solid phase. This solid phase, combined with the mobile phase, enables the differential separation of analytes contained in the sample matrix. The solid phase is typically composed of a polymeric chemistry that interacts with a specific class of analytes. For example, an ion-exchange HPLC column has a solid-phase chemistry that specifically interacts with ionic analytes. To illustrate this principle, an anion-exchange column has solid-phase cationic functional groups that interact non-covalently with anions present in the sample matrix. Depending on the conditions of the mobile phase passing through the column, some anions of the sample will elute from the column's solid phase, while other anions of the sample will be retained.

[0006] Once the analytes elute from the column, they traverse into and through a detector. There are a variety of detection systems that can be used with liquid chromatography systems. For example, there are ultraviolet ("UV") detectors that detect analytes in the UV range.

[0007] The fluidic system of any HPLC or UHPLC system requires tubing that serves as a channel for the mobile phase throughout the system. The separation column is connected to the mobile phase fluid via this tubing. The tubing connects the column to the fluidic system via fittings. Since an HPLC column has two threaded ends, there are typically two threaded fittings that facilitate the fluidic connection between the column and the rest of the HPLC system.

[0008] One problem that continues to plague chromatography practitioners is how to install and / or secure the column during use or otherwise. Some HPLC or UHPLC systems have heating / cooling components that secure the column within the unit. However, in these particular systems, access to the column is limited and difficult for the practitioner.

[0009] A column holder that is easy to manufacture, can be adjusted to hold columns of different sizes, enables tool-free column replacement, and / or is robust enough to prevent breakage would be welcome in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0010] In one embodiment, a liquid chromatography system comprises: a solvent delivery system; a sample manager configured to transfer a sample into a chromatographic flow stream provided by the solvent delivery system; a column holder assembly for holding a chromatographic column, the column holder assembly being located in a column chamber, the column holder assembly comprising: a fixed track extending between a first end and a second end, the fixed track comprising a wall structure defining a space for receiving the chromatographic column, the wall structure comprising at least one channel extending at least partially between the first end and the second end; a first clamp capable of being attached to the fixed track, the first clamp being configured to hold the first end of the chromatographic column in a fixed position relative to the fixed track within the space of the fixed track, the first clamp being configured to hold the first end of the chromatographic column in a fixed position relative to the fixed track within the space of the fixed track, the first clamp being configured to hold the first end of the chromatographic column in a fixed position relative to the fixed track within the space of the fixed track. A clamp includes a main structure and at least one protrusion extending from the main structure, the at least one protrusion being sized to fit within at least one channel of the wall structure of the fixed track, wherein the main structure is made of an elastically deformable material, the elastically deformable material being configured to be manually compressed by an amount at least defined by the width of the outwardly extending protrusion so that the at least one outwardly extending protrusion can be inserted into the at least one channel, and thereafter the main structure is configured to expand so as to retain the first clamp within the wall structure of the fixed track when the at least one protrusion is within the at least one channel; and a second clamp capable of being attached to the fixed track and configured to retain the second end of the chromatography column in a fixed position relative to the fixed track within the space of the fixed track. The liquid chromatography system also includes a chromatography column fixed within the column holder assembly; and a detector located downstream of the liquid chromatography column.

[0011] In addition or alternatively, the second clamp includes a second clamp main body structure and at least one second clamp protrusion extending from the second clamp main body structure, the size of the at least one second clamp protrusion being designed to fit within at least one channel of the wall structure of the fixed track, wherein the main body structure is made of an elastically deformable material, the elastically deformable material being configured to be manually compressed by an amount at least defined by the width of the outwardly extending protrusion so that the at least one outwardly extending protrusion can be inserted into the at least one channel or the second channel, and thereafter the second clamp main body structure is configured to expand so as to retain the second clamp within the wall structure of the fixed track so that the at least one second clamp protrusion is located within the at least one channel or the second channel.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively, the first clamp is configured to slidably adjust position between the first end and the second end of the mounting rail while retaining the at least one protrusion of the first clamp in the at least one channel.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, the second clamp includes at least one securing protrusion keyed to fit into a recess in the wall structure of the fixed rail at a position proximate the second end, the securing protrusion being configured to hold the second clamp at a position proximate the second end and to prevent the second clamp from sliding between the first end and the second end of the fixed rail.

[0014] Additionally or alternatively, the first clamp includes a planar contact extending from the main structure, the planar contact being configured to be grasped by a hand to slidably adjust a position of the first clamp between the first end and the second end of the mounting rail.

[0015] Additionally or alternatively, the first clamp and the second clamp are retained within the fixing rail without retaining pins.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, the wall structure of the fixing rail comprises a U-shaped cross-section extending between the first end and the second end, and wherein the body structure of the first clamp comprises a U-shaped cross-section corresponding to the U-shaped cross-section of the fixing rail.

[0017] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one protrusion of the first clamp is two outward protrusions, each outward protrusion being located at an end of the U-shaped cross-section of the first clamp, and wherein the at least one channel of the fixing rail is two channels configured to receive the two outward protrusions of the first clamp.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, the first clamp and the second clamp each include two flexible arms extending from the main structure into the space defined by the main structure, and the dimensions of each of the two flexible arms are designed to flex while cooperatively retaining an accessory of the chromatography column, so that retaining the accessory generates stress between the two flexible arms and the accessory, and the stress retains the accessory between the two flexible arms.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, the two flexible arms are configured with a yield strength that accommodates a fitting having a range of diameters, wherein the two flexible arms are configured to generate stress between the two flexible arms and the fitting within the range of diameters.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively, the two clamps each include a back plate structure extending from the main structure at an axial height of the main structure that is the same as the axial height of the two flexible arms, the back plate structure being configured to prevent the accessory from being inserted beyond a clamping position defined between the two flexible arms.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp includes a hinged rod configured to rotate about a fulcrum axis, wherein the hinged rod is configured to facilitate removal of the chromatography column from at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively, the fulcrum axis comprises a pin, and wherein the hinged lever comprises a curved body configured to bend about the chromatography column.

[0023] In another embodiment, a column holder assembly for holding a chromatography column includes: a fixed track extending between a first end and a second end, the fixed track including a wall structure defining a space for receiving the chromatography column, the wall structure including at least one channel extending at least partially between the first end and the second end; a first clamp capable of being attached to the fixed track, the first clamp being configured to hold the first end of the chromatography column in a fixed position relative to the fixed track within the space of the fixed track, the first clamp including a main structure and at least one protrusion extending from the main structure, the at least one protrusion being sized to fit within at least one channel of the wall structure of the fixed track, wherein the main structure is made of an elastically deformable material, the elastically deformable material being configured to be manually compressed by an amount at least defined by the width of the outwardly extending protrusion so that the at least one outwardly extending protrusion can be inserted into the at least one channel, after which the main structure is configured to expand so as to retain the first clamp within the wall structure of the fixed track when the at least one protrusion is located within the at least one channel; and a second clamp capable of being attached to the fixed track and configured to retain the second end of the chromatographic column in a fixed position relative to the fixed track within the space of the fixed track.

[0024] In addition or alternatively, the second clamp includes a second clamp main body structure and at least one second clamp protrusion extending from the second clamp main body structure, the size of the at least one second clamp protrusion being designed to fit within at least one channel of the wall structure of the fixed track, wherein the main body structure is made of an elastically deformable material, the elastically deformable material being configured to be manually compressed by an amount at least defined by the width of the outwardly extending protrusion so that the at least one outwardly extending protrusion can be inserted into the at least one channel or the second channel, and thereafter the second clamp main body structure is configured to expand so as to retain the second clamp within the wall structure of the fixed track so that the at least one second clamp protrusion is located within the at least one channel or the second channel.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, the first clamp is configured to slidably adjust position between the first end and the second end of the mounting rail while retaining the at least one protrusion of the first clamp in the at least one channel.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively, the second clamp includes at least one securing protrusion keyed to fit into a recess in the wall structure of the fixed rail at a position proximate the second end, the securing protrusion being configured to hold the second clamp at a position proximate the second end and to prevent the second clamp from sliding between the first end and the second end of the fixed rail.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively, the first clamp includes a planar contact extending from the main structure, the planar contact being configured to be grasped by a hand to slidably adjust a position of the first clamp between the first end and the second end of the mounting rail.

[0028] Additionally or alternatively, the first clamp and the second clamp are retained within the fixing rail without retaining pins.

[0029] Additionally or alternatively, the wall structure of the fixing rail comprises a U-shaped cross-section extending between the first end and the second end, and wherein the body structure of the first clamp comprises a U-shaped cross-section corresponding to the U-shaped cross-section of the fixing rail.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one protrusion of the first clamp is two outward protrusions, each outward protrusion being located at an end of the U-shaped cross-section of the first clamp, and wherein the at least one channel of the fixing rail is two channels configured to receive the two outward protrusions of the first clamp.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively, the first clamp and the second clamp each include two flexible arms extending from the main structure into the space defined by the main structure, and the dimensions of each of the two flexible arms are designed to flex while cooperatively retaining an accessory of the chromatography column, so that retaining the accessory generates stress between the two flexible arms and the accessory, and the stress retains the accessory between the two flexible arms.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, the two flexible arms are configured with a yield strength that accommodates a fitting having a range of diameters, wherein the two flexible arms are configured to generate stress between the two flexible arms and the fitting within the range of diameters.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively, the two clamps each include a back plate structure extending from the main structure at an axial height of the main structure that is the same as the axial height of the two flexible arms, the back plate structure being configured to prevent the accessory from being inserted beyond a clamping position defined between the two flexible arms.

[0034] Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp includes a hinged rod configured to rotate about a fulcrum axis, wherein the hinged rod is configured to facilitate removal of the chromatography column from at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp.

[0035] Additionally or alternatively, the fulcrum axis comprises a pin, and wherein the hinged lever comprises a curved body configured to bend about the chromatography column.

[0036] In another embodiment, a device for holding a chromatography column includes: a first clamp that can be attached to a fixed rail, the first clamp being configured to hold the first end of the chromatography column in a fixed position relative to the fixed rail within the space of the fixed rail, the first clamp including a main structure and at least one protrusion extending from the main structure, the size of the at least one protrusion being designed to fit within at least one channel of the wall structure of the fixed rail, wherein the main structure is made of an elastically deformable material, the elastically deformable material being configured to be manually compressed by an amount at least defined by the width of the outwardly extending protrusion so that the at least one outwardly extending protrusion can be inserted into at least one channel, thereafter the main structure being configured to expand so as to hold the first clamp within the wall structure of the fixed rail when the at least one protrusion is located within the at least one channel; and a second clamp that can be attached to the fixed rail and is configured to hold the second end of the chromatography column in a fixed position relative to the fixed rail within the space of the fixed rail. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The above and other advantages of the present invention may be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements and features throughout the various figures. For clarity, not every component is labeled in every figure. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.

[0038] Figure 1 Depicted is a schematic diagram of a liquid chromatography system according to one embodiment.

[0039] Figure 2 Depicted is a perspective view of a liquid chromatograph with a column manager according to one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 3 Depicted is a perspective view of a column manager having an open door and housing a column extending between a first end and a second end, according to one embodiment.

[0041] Figure 4 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 3 An enlarged perspective view of the second end of the column.

[0042] Figure 5 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 3 An enlarged perspective view of a first end portion of a column.

[0043] Figure 6 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 3 A perspective view of a column manager with an open door and no columns inside.

[0044] Figure 7 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 3 A perspective view of the mounting rails of a column manager with the clamps of the column manager removed.

[0045] Figure 8 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 7 Top view of the fixed track.

[0046] Figure 9 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 5 A perspective view of the first fixture.

[0047] Figure 10 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 5 and Figure 9 Top view of the first fixture.

[0048] Figure 11 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 4 A perspective view of the second fixture.

[0049] Figure 12 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 4 and Figure 11 Top view of the second fixture.

[0050] Figure 13 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 4 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12 A perspective view of a second clamp having a hinged lever in a first position.

[0051] Figure 14 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 4 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 12 and Figure 13 A perspective view of a second clamp having its hinged lever in a second position.

[0052] Figure 15 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 5 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 A perspective view of the bottom of a first clamp having a hinged lever. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Reference in this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present teachings. References to specific embodiments within this specification are not necessarily all to the same embodiment.

[0054] This teaching will now be described in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments of this teaching as shown in the accompanying drawings. Although this teaching has been described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, this teaching is not intended to be limited to such embodiments. On the contrary, this teaching encompasses various substitutions, modifications, and equivalents, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Those of ordinary skill in the art who can use this teaching will recognize additional embodiments, modifications, and embodiments within the scope of this disclosure as described herein, as well as other areas of use.

[0055] The present invention relates to a column holding device for securing a column in one or more positions provided along a fixture, such as a fixed track of a column holder assembly system. According to the embodiments described herein, the column may be supported by a pair of clamps, for example, attached to an inlet fitting and an outlet fitting. The clamps fit into slots in the walls of a track located in, for example, a column compartment in a column manager system. As disclosed, at least one of the clamps may slide along the track. The clamps may preferably be made of a flexible material such as plastic. The material may also have low thermal conductivity to prevent heat from being conducted to the column. In general, the flexibility of the components of the clamps may be configured to allow the column to be simply installed by pushing the column into a receiving position provided by the clamps. The flexing of the clamps provides for tool-less column replacement and may also provide some adjustability in terms of retaining column ends and / or column clamps of different sizes.

[0056] The features of the column holding apparatus and / or systems described herein can be applied to any liquid chromatography system configured to deliver a sample into a chromatographic flow stream. As an example, Figure 1 An embodiment of a liquid chromatography system 10 for separating a mixture into its components is shown. The liquid chromatography system 10 includes a solvent delivery system 12 in fluid communication with a sample manager 14 (also known as an injector or autosampler) via tubing 16. The sample manager 14 is in fluid communication with a chromatography column 18 housed in a column manager 19. A detector 21, such as a mass spectrometer, is in fluid communication with the column 18 to receive the eluted solution.

[0057] Solvent delivery system 12 comprises pumping system 20, and this pumping system is communicated with solvent reservoir 22 fluids, and pumping system 20 extracts solvent (liquid) from this solvent reservoir by tubing 24.In one embodiment, pumping system 20 is embodied by low-pressure mixed gradient pumping system, and this low-pressure mixed gradient pumping system has two two pumps that are connected in series in a fluidic manner.In low-pressure gradient pumping system, before pump, the mixing of solvent occurs, and solvent delivery system 12 has mixer 26, and this mixer is communicated with solvent reservoir 22 fluids to receive various solvents in metering ratio.This mixing of solvent (mobile phase) composition changes (that is, gradient) over time.

[0058] Pumping system 20 is in fluid communication with mixer 26 to draw a continuous gradient flow therefrom for delivery to sample manager 14. Examples of solvent delivery systems that may be used to implement solvent delivery system 12 include, but are not limited to, the ACQUITY Binary Solvent Manager and the ACQUITY Quaternary Solvent Manager manufactured by Waters Corp. of Milford, Mass.

[0059] The sample manager 14 may include an injector valve 28 having a sample loop 30. The sample manager 14 operates in one of two states: a loading state and an injection state. In the loading state, the position of the injector valve 28 causes the sample manager to load a sample 32 into the sample loop 30. The sample 32 is extracted from a bottle held by a sample bottle holder. A "sample bottle holder" herein refers to any device configured to carry a sample bottle, such as a well plate, a sample bottle holder, etc. In the injection state, the position of the injector valve 28 changes so that the sample manager 14 introduces the sample in the sample loop 30 from the solvent delivery system into the continuously flowing mobile phase. Thus, the mobile phase carries the sample to the column 18. In other embodiments, a flow-through needle (FTN) can be used instead of a fixed quantitative loop sample manager. Using the FTN method, the sample can be drawn into the needle, which can then be moved into the seal. The valve can then be switched to align the needle with the solvent delivery system.

[0060] The liquid chromatography system 10 may also include a data system 34 that communicates signals with the solvent delivery system 12, the sample manager 14, the column manager 19, and / or the detector 21. The data system 34 has a processor 36 and a switch 38 (e.g., an Ethernet switch) that handles signal communication between the solvent delivery system 12 and the sample manager 14, the column manager 19, and / or the detector 21. Signal communication between the various systems and instruments can be electrical or optical, using wireless or wired transmission. A host computing system 40 communicates with the data system 34, through which technicians can download various parameters and configuration files to the data system 34.

[0061] Figure 2 A perspective view of a liquid chromatography system 10 is shown, which includes a sample manager 14, a detector 21, a column manager 19, a solvent delivery system 12, and a solvent 22. Each of the sample manager 14, the detector 21, the column manager 19, and the solvent delivery system 12 can include a housing or body within which various features can be housed, such as a data system 34, a sample loop 30 and an injector valve 28, a pumping system 20, a mixer 26, and tubing 24. The various components 12, 14, 19, 21, 22 can be interconnected with fluidic tubing and in signal communication with the system's data system 34. The liquid chromatography system 10 is shown with the solvent delivery system 12, the sample manager 14, the column manager 19, the detector 21, and trays stacked together for holding the solvent 22.

[0062] Figure 3 A perspective view of a column manager 100 according to one embodiment is depicted, having an open door 110 and housing a column 112. The column manager 100 and column 112 may be incorporated into a liquid chromatography system, such as a Figure 1and Figure 2 Liquid chromatography system 10 is shown. For example, column manager 100 may be an exemplary form of column manager 19 described above, and column 112 may likewise be an exemplary form of column 18 described above.

[0063] Located within the column manager 100 is a column chamber 114 having a column holder assembly 116 therein. The column holder assembly 116 is shown to include a mounting rail 118 extending between a first end 120 and a second end 122. The mounting rail 118 includes a wall structure 123 that defines a space for receiving the chromatography column 112. Attached to the mounting rail 118 is a first clamp 124 that is configured to hold a first end 126 of the chromatography column 112 (or its column accessories) in a fixed position relative to the mounting rail 118 within the space defined by the mounting rail 118. Attached to the mounting rail 118 is a second clamp 128 that is configured to hold a second end 130 of the chromatography column 112 (or its column accessories) in a fixed position relative to the mounting rail 118 within the space defined by the mounting rail 118.

[0064] Figure 4 Depicted is a second clamp 128 held according to one embodiment. Figure 3 1. In the case of a vertical orientation of the column manager, the second clamp 128 may be located on the top side of the column manager 100. However, in other embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown in the column manager 19, the column manager can be oriented horizontally rather than vertically. Regardless of the orientation, the second clamp 128 can be configured to hold the second end 130 of the chromatography column 112. Specifically, the second clamp 128 is shown as contacting, clamping, engaging and / or attaching to a column fitting 132 of the column 112.

[0065] In particular, the second clamp 128 is shown attached to the post fitting 132 between the large diameter knob end 133 of the compression screw of the post fitting 132 and the post end nut 135 of the coupler at a narrow portion 137 of the post fitting 132, with the narrow portion 137 being located between these two features 133, 135. In other embodiments, the second clamp 124 can be configured to attach, clamp, engage or contact the body of the post 112 itself, or the post end nut 135, or any other portion of the post assembly and / or its fittings.

[0066] The second clamp 128 includes a main structure 134. The main structure 134 extends in a generally U-shaped cross section, which corresponds to the U-shaped cross section of the fixing rail 118 (e.g., Figure 7 and Figure 8). The main structure 134 includes outwardly extending protrusions 136a, 136b on each end of the U-shape. The outwardly extending protrusions 136a, 136b can have mirror image dimensions and can be outwardly extending flanges, protrusions, ridges, overhangs, etc. Each of the outwardly extending protrusions 136a, 136b can be sized to fit within the channel of the mounting rail 118 (at Figure 7 and Figure 8 The outwardly extending protrusions 136a, 136b may be vertically disposed and extend along the entire height of the second clamp 128.

[0067] The main structure 134 may also be made of an elastically deformable material that is configured to be manually compressed so that the main structure deflects inwardly by at least an amount defined by the width of one or both of the outwardly extending protrusions 136a, 136b to allow the U-shape of the main structure 134 to be inserted into the fixing rail 118 and its channel. Once inserted into the fixing rail, as shown, the second clamp 128 may thereafter be configured to expand once the inward pressure is no longer applied, thereby retaining the second clamp 128 within the wall structure 123 of the fixing rail 118 so that the protrusions 136a, 136b are located within the corresponding channels of the fixing rail 118. The second clamp 128 may include a fixing protrusion (at Figure 12 , the retaining protrusion extends into a recess in the wall structure of the retaining rail 118 at a location proximate the second end 122 of the retaining rail 118. The retaining protrusion can be configured to maintain the second clamp 128 in an axial position along the retaining rail 118 without sliding along the length of the retaining rail 118.

[0068] Figure 5 Depicted is a diagram of a device held by a first fixture 124 according to one embodiment. Figure 3 18 is an enlarged perspective view of the first end 126 of the column 112 of the column manager 100. With the column manager in a vertical orientation, the first clamp 124 can be located on the bottom side of the column manager 100. The first clamp 124 can be located at an opposite end of the column manager 100 and / or the fixed rail 118 and / or the column 112 as the second clamp 128. However, the first clamp 124 can slide along the fixed rail 118 so as to be located at any position along the fixed rail 118 between the first end 120 and the second end 122 of the fixed rail 118. As shown, the first clamp 124 is located in the middle portion of the fixed rail 118 because the column 112 extends to this middle point within the fixed rail 118. The first clamp 124 can be configured to hold the first end 126 of the chromatography column 112. Specifically, the first clamp 124 is shown as contacting, clamping, engaging and / or attaching to the column accessory 132 of the column 112, which can be Figure 4 The column assemblies 132 shown are identical.

[0069] Specifically, the second clamp 124 is shown attached to the post fitting 132 between the large diameter knob end 133 of the compression screw of the post fitting 132 and the post end nut 135 of the coupler at a narrow portion 137 of the post fitting 132, which is located between these two features 133, 135. In other embodiments, the second clamp 124 can be configured to attach, clamp, engage or contact the body of the post 112 itself, or the post end nut 135, or any other portion of the post assembly and / or its fittings.

[0070] The first clamp 124 includes a main body structure 138. Similar to the main body structure 134 of the second clamp 128, the main body structure 138 of the first clamp 124 extends in a generally U-shaped cross-section corresponding to the U-shaped cross-section of the fixing rail 118 (e.g., Figure 7 and Figure 8 ). Similar to the main structure 134 of the second clamp 128, the main structure 138 of the first clamp 124 includes outwardly extending protrusions 140a, 140b on each end of the U-shape. The outwardly extending protrusions 140a, 140b can have mirror image dimensions and can be outwardly extending flanges, protrusions, ridges, overhangs, etc. Each of the outwardly extending protrusions 140a, 140b can be sized to fit within the channel of the mounting rail 118 (at Figure 7 and Figure 8 The outwardly extending protrusions 140a, 140b may be vertically disposed and extend along the entire height of the first clamp 124.

[0071] The main structure 138 of the first clamp 124 can also be made of an elastically deformable material that is configured to be manually compressed, causing the main structure to deflect inwardly by at least an amount defined by the width of one or both of the outwardly extending protrusions 140a, 140b, thereby allowing the U-shape of the main structure 138 to be inserted into the fixed rail 118 and its channel. Once inserted into the fixed rail, as shown, the first clamp 124 can thereafter be configured to expand once the inward pressure is no longer applied, thereby retaining the first clamp 124 within the wall structure 123 of the fixed rail 118, such that the protrusions 140a, 140b are located within the corresponding channels of the fixed rail 118. From this position, the first clamp 124 can be slidably moved along the length of the fixed rail 118 between the first end 120 and the second end 122 thereof by force applied by the hand of an operator or technician.

[0072] Figure 6 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 31 is a perspective view of a column manager 100 with an open door 110 and no columns within. The column manager 100 is shown with the entire mounting rail 118 exposed. While the first clamp 124 is shown positioned closer to the second end 122 (and the second clamp 128) than the first end 120, the first clamp 124 can be configured to slide within the mounting rail 118 (all the way down to the bottom of the mounting rail 118 to reach the first end 120) while remaining attached to the mounting rail 118. This ensures that columns of varying lengths can be accommodated.

[0073] Figure 7 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 3 A perspective view of the mounting rail 118 of a column manager with the column clamps of the column manager removed. Figure 8 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 7 FIG1 is a top view of a mounting rail 118. Mounting rail 118 includes a wall structure 123 that generally includes a U-shaped cross-section extending the length of mounting rail 118. Wall structure 123 specifically includes a left wall 142 and a right wall 144 with a base 146 extending therebetween. Base 146 extends perpendicularly from each of right wall 144 and left wall 142.

[0074] Extending longitudinally along the length of the post 146 is a first channel 148 in the left wall 142 and a second channel 150 in the right wall 144. Thus, each of the channels 148, 150 is at least partially located between the first end 120 and the second end 122 of the mounting rail 118 (e.g., Figure 3 The U-shaped cross-section of the wall structure 123 of the fixing rail 118 can correspond in size to the U-shaped cross-section of each of the body structures 134, 138 of the second clamp 128 and the first clamp 124, respectively. In addition, the protrusions 136a, 136b of the second clamp 128 and the protrusions 140a, 140b of the first clamp 124 can each be keyed to fit within the first channel 148 and the second channel 150, respectively.

[0075] Thus, the first clamp 124 may be configured to be slidably adjustable between the first end 120 and the second end 122 of the mounting rail 118 while retaining the extending protrusions 140 a , 140 b of the first clamp 124 within the channels 148 , 150 of the mounting rail 118 .

[0076] Furthermore, keyed recesses may also be positioned proximate the second end 122 of the mounting rail 118 to receive corresponding protrusions of the second clamp 128 to maintain the second clamp 128 in the same longitudinal position within the mounting rail 118. Specifically, the mounting rail 118 includes a rear opening or recess 152 located at the same longitudinal position along the mounting rail 118 as a left recess 154a and a right recess 154b. The left recess 154a extends from the end of the left wall 142 to slightly beyond the first channel 148, while the right recess 154b extends from the end of the right wall 144 to slightly beyond the first channel 150. Together, the recesses 152, 154a, 154b receive corresponding protrusions that key to these recesses present within the second clamp 128.

[0077] Figure 9 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 5 A perspective view of the first fixture 124, and Figure 10 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 5 and Figure 9 FIG1 is a top view of the first clamp 124. As shown, the first clamp 124 includes a main structure 138 that is U-shaped in cross-section and has dimensions corresponding to the U-shape of the mounting rail 118. The main structure 138 includes a left wall 156, a right wall 158, and a base 160. The base 160 extends perpendicularly from each of the left wall 156 and the right wall 158.

[0078] As described above, the main structure 138 of the first clamp 124 can also be made of an elastically deformable material, which is configured to be manually moved in the direction A (eg, Figure 10 140b) so as to deflect the main structure inwardly by at least an amount defined by the width of one or both of the outwardly extending protrusions 140a, 140b to permit insertion of the U-shape of the main structure 138 into the securing rail 118 and its channel. After insertion into the securing rail, the U-shape of the main structure 138 can be held under tension when the protrusions 140a, 140b are positioned within the channels 148, 150 of the securing rail 138. Specifically, the U-shape of the main structure 138 can be sized to be naturally slightly wider than the dimensions of the securing rail 138, thereby exerting a slight permanent force or compression on the main structure 138 when the first clamp 124 is placed within the securing rail. When positioned within the securing rail 118, the amount of stress or tension exerted on the main structure 138 can be sufficient to maintain the first clamp 124 in position within the securing rail 138 and prevent gravity from producing unintentional vertical sliding movement. Rather, the slidable first clamp 124 may only be moved intentionally (via hand-applied force) within the securing rail 138 due to the permanent stress or tension maintained on the main structure 138 by the securing rail 138 .

[0079] The U-shape of main structure 138 defines a space, and this post can extend in this space when first fixture 124 keeps, retains or is attached to post.In this space, first fixture 124 comprises the structure for being clamped to the post in a removable but firmly maintainable mode.Specifically, first fixture 124 comprises two flexible arms 162a, 162b extending from main structure 138 into the space defined by U-shaped main structure 138.Each flexible arm in two flexible arms 162a, 162b can be flexed when collaboratively keeping chromatographic column and / or its post accessories.Specifically, each in flexible arms 162a, 162b comprises curved end 164a, 164b respectively, and its formation is configured as the partial annular structure of cup (cylindrical shape).

[0080] In addition, when the first clamp 124 holds the column and / or its column accessories, the flexible arms 162a, 162b, together with the curved ends 164a, 164b, can be maintained under tension or stress. This stress or tension can be caused by the flexibility or elastic deformation of the arms 162a, 162b when the column is positioned between the curved ends 164a, 164b. The two flexible arms 162a, 162b can be configured to have a yield strength or be made of a material having a yield strength that accommodates accessories and / or columns having a range of diameters. The stop structures 166a, 166b are shown as being positioned radially outward from the curved ends 164a, 164b to prevent further deflection of the flexible arms 162a, 162b. When the curved ends 164a, 164b abut the stop structures 166a, 166b, respectively, the size of the space between the curved ends defines the maximum diameter size that can be received by the first clamp 124.

[0081] The first clamp 124 also includes a backing structure 168 that extends from the main structure 138 at an axial height of the main structure 138 that is the same as the axial height of the two flexible arms 162a, 162b, the curved ends 164a, 164b, and the stop structures 166a, 166b. The backing structure 168 can be configured to prevent the fitting and / or post received by the first clamp 124 from being inserted beyond the clamping position defined between the two flexible arms 162a, 162b and / or their curved ends 164a, 164b. The backing structure 168 and the stop structures 166a, 166b can provide support for the post in the longitudinal direction by contacting the post fitting 132 at the large diameter knob end 133 or the post 12 at the post end nut 135.

[0082] The first clamp 124 also includes a planar contact point 170 or oversized shoulder structure extending from the main structure 138 near the base of the two flexible arms 162a, 162b. The planar contact point 170 can be configured to be grasped by hand to slidably adjust the position of the first clamp 124 between the first end 120 and the second end 122 of the mounting rail 118.

[0083] Figure 11 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 4 A perspective view of the second fixture 128, and Figure 12 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 4 and Figure 11 17. A top view of the column clamp 128 of the second clamp 128 is shown. As shown, the second clamp 128 includes a main structure 134 that is U-shaped in cross-section and corresponds in size to the U-shape of the mounting rail 118. The main structure 134 includes a left wall 176, a right wall 178, and a base 180. The base 180 extends perpendicularly from each of the left wall 176 and the right wall 178. Because the second clamp 128 is configured to remain stationary within the mounting rail 118, the main structure 134 of the second clamp 128 may have a shorter profile than the main structure 138 of the first clamp 124. However, the heights of the clamps 124, 128 contemplated herein are not limited to the embodiment shown.

[0084] As described above, the main structure 134 of the second clamp 128 can also be made of an elastically deformable material, which is configured to be manually deformed along the direction V (eg, Figure 12 The second clamp 128 is compressed (as shown) such that the main structure deflects inwardly by at least an amount defined by the width of one or both of the outwardly extending protrusions 136a, 136b to permit insertion of the U-shape of the main structure 134 into the securing rail 118 and its channel. After insertion into the securing rail, the U-shape of the main structure 134 of the second clamp 128 can be held under tension, similar to the tension applied to the first clamp 124 by the securing rail 138 as described above.

[0085] The U-shape of main structure 134 defines a space, and this post can extend in this space when second fixture 128 keeps, retains or is attached to post.In this space, second fixture 128 comprises the structure for being clamped to the post in the mode of removable but firmly maintaining.Specifically, second fixture 128 comprises two flexible arms 182a, 182b extending into the space defined by U-shaped main structure 134 from main structure 134.The size of each flexible arm in two flexible arms 182a, 182b is designed to be able to flex when collaboratively keeping chromatographic column and / or its post accessories.Specifically, each in flexible arm 182a, 182b comprises curved end 184a, 184b respectively, and its formation is configured as the partial annular structure of cup (cylindrical shape).

[0086] In addition, when the first clamp 184 holds the column and / or its column accessories, the flexible arms 182a, 182b, together with the curved ends 184a, 184b, can be maintained under tension or stress. This stress or tension can be caused by the flexibility or elastic deformation of the arms 182a, 182b when the column is positioned between the curved ends 184a, 184b. The two flexible arms 182a, 182b can be configured to have a yield strength or be made of a material having a yield strength that accommodates accessories and / or columns having a range of diameters. The stop structures 186a, 186b are shown as being positioned radially outward from the curved ends 184a, 184b to prevent further deflection of the flexible arms 182a, 182b. When the curved ends 184a, 184b abut the stop structures 186a, 186b, respectively, the size of the space between the curved ends defines the maximum diameter size that can be received by the second clamp 128.

[0087] The second clamp 128 also includes a backing structure 188 that extends from the main structure 134 at an axial height of the main structure 134 that is the same as the axial height of the two flexible arms 182a, 182b, the curved ends 184a, 184b, and the stop structures 186a, 186b. The backing structure 188 can be configured to prevent the fitting and / or post received by the second clamp 128 from being inserted beyond the clamping position defined between the two flexible arms 182a, 182b and / or their curved ends 184a, 184b. The backing structure 188 and the stop structures 186a, 186b can provide support for the post in the longitudinal direction by contacting the post fitting 132 at the large diameter knob end 133 or the post 12 at the post end nut 135.

[0088] The second clamp 128 also includes a plurality of securing protrusions that are keyed to fit within the recesses 152, 154a, and 154b of the mounting rail 118 near the second end 122 of the mounting rail. Specifically, the second clamp 128 includes a first securing protrusion 189a that extends perpendicularly from the vertically extending protrusion 136a and is keyed to fit within the recess 154a of the mounting rail 118. Similarly, the second clamp 128 includes a second securing protrusion 189b that extends perpendicularly from the vertically extending protrusion 136b and is keyed to fit within the recess 154b of the mounting rail 118. Additionally, the second clamp 128 includes a rear protrusion 190 that extends from the rear side of the base 180 of the main structure 134 of the second clamp 128. The rear protrusion 190 is keyed to fit within the recess 152 of the mounting rail 118.

[0089] Utilizing the channels 148, 150 and recesses 152, 154a, 154b of the mounting rail 118, the structure of the mounting rail 118 can be configured to retain the first and second clamps 124, 128 to the mounting rail 118 without the need for retaining pins, bolts, screws, or the like. Only the size and flexible structure of the mounting rail 118 and clamps 124, 128 maintain the clamps' attachment. The first and second clamps 124, 128 can each be configured to be manually attached to and removed from the mounting rail 118 by flexing the first and second clamps 124, 128 inwardly as described above. Once secured in place, the corresponding extending protrusions 136a, 136b of the second clamp 128 maintain the second clamp 128 attached to the mounting rail 118 while maintaining the ability to be slid longitudinally along the rail using force applied by hand. Once held in place, the corresponding protrusions 140a, 140b of the first clamp 124 together with the fixing protrusions 188a, 188b, 190 of the first clamp 124 hold the first clamp 124 attached to the fixing rail 118 at a specific predefined position within the fixing rail 118 without the ability to slide longitudinally along the fixing rail 118.

[0090] Figure 13 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 4 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12 1 and 2. A perspective view of the second column clamp 128 of FIG. 1 is provided, showing a hinge rod 192 of the second column clamp in a first position. The hinge rod 192 is configured to rotate about a fulcrum axis 194. The fulcrum axis 194 may include a pin and / or bolt, etc., about which the hinge rod 192 may rotate. The hinge rod 192 may include a curved body that is configured to bend about a received column. In the first position, the hinge rod 192 may be positioned so that the second clamp 128 can receive the column, as described above. The hinge rod 192 may be particularly configured to facilitate removal of the column from the receiving position. Figure 14 Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 4 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12 A perspective view of the second column fixture 128 is shown with the hinged rod 192 in a second position. In this position, the hinged rod 192 is rotated about the fulcrum axis 194. To rotate the hinged rod 192, a force can be applied to the end 195 of the hinged rod 192, thereby rotating the rod so that the bent end pushes the column outward from the receiving position within the second column fixture 128. Although Figure 13 and Figure 14 The hinge rod 192 is shown attached to the second column clamp 128 , but it should be understood that in practice, the hinge rod 192 may be applied to both or either the first column clamp 124 or the second column clamp 128 .

[0091] Figure 15Depicted according to one embodiment Figure 5 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 A perspective view of the bottom of the first column clamp 124 having a hinged rod 192. As shown below, the hinged rod 192 can be attached with a bolt or screw 198 that is received within internal threads (not shown) of the hinged rod 192. A washer 196 is included to distribute the tightening force. The bolt 198 (and thus Figure 13 、 Figure 14 The fulcrum axis 194 (shown in FIG) can thereby extend axially within an opening defined between one of the arms of the clamp and the stop structure.

[0092] While the foregoing description herein describes the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings in detail and with particularity, it should be understood that various alternatives are contemplated for applying the principles described herein in various other structural configurations. For example, various arm sizes and orientations are contemplated to allow for the flexible retention and holding of the column within the clamp as described. Furthermore, if sliding motion is desired at both ends of the system, two sliding clamps, such as first clamp 124, may be deployed. Alternatively, a fully fixed system is also contemplated, which deploys two fixed clamps, such as second clamp 128. In such embodiments, keyed recesses may be located at both ends of the fixed track. Various keying systems are contemplated for securing second clamp 128 to fixed track 118, whereby protrusions are sized in various ways and fixed track 118 includes corresponding recesses. In other embodiments, the track may include protrusions, while second clamp 128 may include corresponding recesses. Such a configuration may allow the same clamp structure to function as both a sliding clamp and a fixed clamp, depending on where the clamp is deployed on the fixed track.

[0093] Still further, a body structure having a protrusion that fits into a recess in the track can be used in conjunction with methods for retaining posts that do not include a flexible inner arm. For example, according to various embodiments, it is contemplated that a cam-type post retainer, a latch, or a soft rubber retainer, or any other retaining mechanism, may be used in place of the flexible inner arm. Such embodiments may include the U-shaped body described above, wherein the protrusion feature fits into the recess of the track and may be allowed to slide (such as with the structure of the first clamp 124) or may be held stationary (such as with the structure of the second clamp 128).

[0094] While the present invention has been shown and described with reference to particular embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the following claims.

Claims

1. A liquid chromatography system, comprising: solvent delivery systems; a sample manager configured to transfer a sample into a chromatographic flow stream provided by the solvent delivery system; A column holder assembly, the column holder assembly is used to hold a chromatographic column, the column holder assembly is located in a column chamber, and the column holder assembly comprises: a fixed track extending between a first end and a second end, the fixed track comprising a wall structure defining a space for receiving a chromatography column, the wall structure comprising at least one channel extending at least partially between the first end and the second end; a first clamp, the first clamp being attachable to the fixing rail, the a first clamp configured to hold the first end of the chromatography column in a fixed position relative to the fixing track within the space of the fixing track, the first clamp comprising a main body structure and at least one protrusion extending from the main body structure, the at least one protrusion being sized to fit within the at least one channel of the wall structure of the fixing track, wherein the main body structure is made of an elastically deformable material, the elastically deformable material being configured to be manually compressed by an amount at least defined by a width of the outwardly extending protrusion so that the at least one outwardly extending protrusion can be inserted into the at least one channel, and thereafter the main body structure is configured to expand so as to hold the first clamp within the wall structure of the fixing track when the at least one protrusion is located within the at least one channel; and a second clamp attachable to the fixing rail and configured to retain the second end of the chromatography column in a fixed position relative to the fixing rail within the space of the fixing rail; the chromatography column, the chromatography column being fixed in the column holder assembly; and A detector is located downstream of the liquid chromatography column.

2. A liquid chromatography system according to claim 1, wherein the second clamp includes a second clamp main body structure and at least one second clamp protrusion extending from the second clamp main body structure, the size of the at least one second clamp protrusion is designed to fit within the at least one channel of the wall structure of the fixed track, wherein the main body structure is made of an elastically deformable material, and the elastically deformable material is configured to be manually compressed by an amount at least defined by the width of the outwardly extending protrusion so that the at least one outwardly extending protrusion can be inserted into the at least one channel or the second channel, thereafter the second clamp main body structure is configured to expand so as to retain the second clamp within the wall structure of the fixed track so that the at least one second clamp protrusion is located within the at least one channel or the second channel.

3. The liquid chromatography system of claim 2, wherein the first clamp is configured to slidably adjust a position between the first end and the second end of the fixed rail while retaining the at least one protrusion of the first clamp in the at least one channel.

4. The liquid chromatography system of claim 3 , wherein the second clamp comprises at least one securing protrusion keyed to fit into a recess in the wall structure of the fixing rail at a position proximate the second end, the securing protrusion being configured to hold the second clamp at the position proximate the second end and prevent the second clamp from sliding between the first end and the second end of the fixing rail.

5. The liquid chromatography system of claim 3, wherein the first clamp comprises a planar contact extending from the main structure, the planar contact being configured to be grasped by a hand to slidably adjust the position of the first clamp between the first end and the second end of the fixed rail. The liquid chromatography system of claim 1 , wherein the first clamp and the second clamp are retained within the fixed rail without retaining pins.

7. The liquid chromatography system of claim 1 , wherein the wall structure of the fixed rail includes a U-shaped cross-section extending between the first end and the second end, and wherein the main body structure of the first clamp includes a U-shaped cross-section corresponding to the U-shaped cross-section of the fixed rail.

8. The liquid chromatography system of claim 7 , wherein the at least one protrusion of the first clamp is two outward protrusions, each outward protrusion being located at an end of the U-shaped cross-section of the first clamp, and wherein the at least one channel of the fixed rail is two channels configured to receive the two outward protrusions of the first clamp.

9. The liquid chromatography system according to claim 1 , wherein the first clamp and the second clamp each comprise two flexible arms extending from the main structure into a space defined by the main structure, the dimensions of each of the two flexible arms being designed to flex while cooperatively holding an accessory of the chromatography column, so that holding the accessory generates stress between the two flexible arms and the accessory, and the stress holds the accessory between the two flexible arms.

10. The liquid chromatography system of claim 9, wherein the two flexible arms are configured to have a yield strength that accommodates a fitting having a range of diameters, wherein the two flexible arms are configured to generate the stress between the two flexible arms and the fitting within the range of diameters.

11. The liquid chromatography system of claim 9 , further comprising a backplate structure extending from the main body structure at an axial height of the main body structure that is the same as the axial height of the two flexible arms, the backplate structure being configured to prevent the accessory from being inserted beyond a clamping position defined between the two flexible arms.

12. The liquid chromatography system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp comprises a hinged lever configured to rotate about a fulcrum axis, wherein the hinged lever is configured to facilitate removal of the chromatography column from at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp.

13. The liquid chromatography system of claim 12, wherein the fulcrum axis comprises a pin, and wherein the hinged rod comprises a curved body configured to bend around the chromatography column.

14. A column holder assembly for holding a chromatography column, the column holder assembly comprising: a fixed track extending between a first end and a second end, the fixed track comprising a wall structure defining a space for receiving a chromatography column, the wall structure comprising at least one channel extending at least partially between the first end and the second end; a first clamp attachable to the mounting rail, the first clamp being configured to retain a first end portion of a chromatography column in a fixed position relative to the mounting rail within the space of the mounting rail, the first clamp comprising a main body structure and at least one protrusion extending from the main body structure, the at least one protrusion being sized to fit within the at least one channel of the wall structure of the mounting rail, wherein the main body structure is made of an elastically deformable material, the elastically deformable material being configured to be manually compressed by an amount at least defined by a width of the outwardly extending protrusion such that the at least one outwardly extending protrusion can be inserted into the at least one channel, and thereafter the main body structure being configured to expand to retain the first clamp within the wall structure of the mounting rail when the at least one protrusion is located within the at least one channel; and A second clamp is attachable to the fixing rail and is configured to retain the second end of the chromatography column in a fixed position relative to the fixing rail within the space of the fixing rail.

15. A column retainer assembly according to claim 14, wherein the second clamp includes a second clamp body structure and at least one second clamp protrusion extending from the second clamp body structure, the size of the at least one second clamp protrusion is designed to fit within the at least one channel of the wall structure of the fixed track, wherein the body structure is made of an elastically deformable material, the elastically deformable material is configured to be manually compressed by an amount at least defined by the width of the outwardly extending protrusion so that the at least one outwardly extending protrusion can be inserted into the at least one channel or the second channel, thereafter the second clamp body structure is configured to expand so as to retain the second clamp within the wall structure of the fixed track so that the at least one second clamp protrusion is located within the at least one channel or the second channel.

16. The post retainer assembly of claim 15, wherein the first clamp is configured to slidably adjust position between the first end and the second end of the mounting rail while retaining the at least one protrusion of the first clamp in the at least one channel.

17. A column retainer assembly according to claim 16, wherein the second clamp includes at least one fixing protrusion, which is keyed to fit into a recess in the wall structure of the fixing rail at a position near the second end, and the fixing protrusion is configured to hold the second clamp at the position near the second end and prevent the second clamp from sliding between the first end and the second end of the fixing rail.

18. The post retainer assembly of claim 16, wherein the first clamp includes a planar contact extending from the body structure, the planar contact configured to be grasped by hand to slidably adjust the position of the first clamp between the first end and the second end of the mounting rail.

19. The post retainer assembly of claim 14, wherein the first clamp and the second clamp are retained within the securing rail without a retaining pin.

20. The post retainer assembly of claim 14, wherein the wall structure of the mounting rail includes a U-shaped cross-section extending between the first end and the second end, and wherein the body structure of the first clamp includes a U-shaped cross-section corresponding to the U-shaped cross-section of the mounting rail.

21. A column retainer assembly according to claim 20, wherein the at least one protrusion of the first clamp is two outward protrusions, each outward protrusion is located at the end of the U-shaped cross-section of the first clamp, and wherein the at least one channel of the fixing rail is two channels configured to receive the two outward protrusions of the first clamp.

22. The column holder assembly according to claim 14, wherein the first clamp and the second clamp each include two flexible arms extending from the main structure into the space defined by the main structure, and the size of each of the two flexible arms is designed to flex while cooperatively holding the accessories of the chromatography column, so that holding the accessories generates stress between the two flexible arms and the accessories, and the stress holds the accessories between the two flexible arms.

23. The column holder assembly of claim 22, wherein the two flexible arms are configured with a yield strength that accommodates fittings having a range of diameters, wherein the two flexible arms are configured to generate the stress between the two flexible arms and the fitting within the range of diameters.

24. A column retainer assembly according to claim 22, wherein the column retainer assembly further includes a backplate structure, which extends from the main structure at an axial height of the main structure that is the same as the axial height of the two flexible arms, and the backplate structure is configured to prevent the accessory from being inserted beyond the clamping position defined between the two flexible arms.

25. The column holder assembly of claim 14, wherein at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp comprises a hinged rod configured to rotate about a fulcrum axis, wherein the hinged rod is configured to facilitate removal of the chromatography column from at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp.

26. The column holder assembly of claim 25, wherein the fulcrum axis comprises a pin, and wherein the hinged rod comprises a curved body configured to bend about the chromatography column.

27. A device for holding a chromatography column, the device comprising: a first clamp attachable to the mounting rail, the first clamp being configured to retain a first end portion of a chromatography column in a fixed position relative to the mounting rail within the space of the mounting rail, the first clamp comprising a main body structure and at least one protrusion extending from the main body structure, the at least one protrusion being sized to fit within the at least one channel of the wall structure of the mounting rail, wherein the main body structure is made of an elastically deformable material, the elastically deformable material being configured to be manually compressed by an amount at least defined by a width of the outwardly extending protrusion such that the at least one outwardly extending protrusion can be inserted into the at least one channel, and thereafter the main body structure being configured to expand to retain the first clamp within the wall structure of the mounting rail when the at least one protrusion is located within the at least one channel; and A second clamp is attachable to the fixing rail and is configured to retain the second end of the chromatography column in a fixed position relative to the fixing rail within the space of the fixing rail.

Images