Support device and support method

Abstract

The support device (2) supports the setting of analysis conditions of the liquid chromatograph system (1). The support device (2) includes: a display device (204); and a control device (201) that simulates the use period and use start timing of each of the injection device, the plurality of flow channels, and the detection device on the basis of the set analysis conditions, and displays the result of the simulation on a display device (204) by indicating the use period of the device with the length of a range bar for each device used. The control device (201) displays a range bar for each analysis when a plurality of analyses are set to be performed, and performs simulation so as to reflect a change in a period condition to each of the plurality of analyses when the first reception unit receives an input of the period condition for the injection device and / or the detection device, and performs simulation so as to reflect a change in the period condition to each of the plurality of analyses when the first reception unit receives an input of the period condition for each of the plurality of analyses. And reflecting a result of the simulation to a display device (204).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a support device and a support method for supporting setting of analysis conditions of a liquid chromatograph system. BACKGROUND

[0002] A liquid chromatograph is a technique in which an analysis target sample is introduced into a column together with an eluent as a mobile phase, thereby separating components contained in the sample. The components of the sample separated by the liquid chromatograph are analyzed by a detector such as a mass spectrometer.

[0003] International Publication No. 2017 / 216934 (Patent Literature 1) and “Nexera QX”, Shimadzu Corporation (Non-Patent Literature 1) disclose a liquid chromatograph system including an injection device including an analysis system (hereinafter referred to as a flow path) of a plurality of liquid chromatographs, an injector that injects a sample into each of the plurality of flow paths, a detector, and a valve that selectively connects one flow path from the plurality of flow paths to the detector.

[0004] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0005] PATENT LITERATURE

[0006] Patent Literature 1: International Publication No. 2017 / 216934

[0007] NON-PATENT LITERATURE

[0008] Non-Patent Literature 1: “Nexera QX”, [online], [retrieved on December 14, 2022], Shimadzu Corporation, Internet <URL: https: / / www.ssi.shimadzu.com / products / liquid-chromatography-mass-spectrometry / ultrafast-multiplex-lcms-nexera-qx.html> SUMMARY

[0009] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0010] According to the liquid chromatograph system described in Patent Literature 1 and Non-Patent Literature 1, separation of components in a sample is performed in parallel using a plurality of flow paths, and mass analysis is continuously performed, thereby improving analysis efficiency. However, in such a liquid chromatograph system, there are a plurality of points to be considered in setting of analysis conditions, and it is difficult to determine the analysis conditions.

[0011] For example, in order to improve analysis efficiency, a user desires to set a period during which analysis is not performed as short as possible. In a case where analysis in another flow path is started immediately after analysis in one flow path is started in order to achieve such a desire, there arises a problem that timing at which separated components reach a detector overlaps in each flow path.

[0012] An object of the present disclosure is to support, in a liquid chromatograph system having a plurality of flow paths and capable of performing separation of components in a sample in parallel, setting of analysis conditions so that it can be set more easily.

[0013] Technical means for solving the problem

[0014] The support device of the present disclosure supports setting of analysis conditions of a liquid chromatograph system. The liquid chromatograph system includes a plurality of flow paths for separating components contained in a sample, an injection device that injects a sample into each of the plurality of flow paths, and a detection device that detects components separated by each of the plurality of flow paths, and is configured to be capable of performing separation of components in a sample using each of the plurality of flow paths in parallel. The support device includes a display device, and a control device that simulates a use period and a use start timing of each of the injection device, the plurality of flow paths, and the detection device in accordance with set analysis conditions, and displays a result of the simulation on the display device, for each device used, by expressing the use period of the device in the length of a range bar. The control device includes a first reception unit that receives input of a period condition, which is an analysis condition related to the use period of the injection device and the detection device. The control device displays a range bar for each analysis in a case where a plurality of analyses are set to be performed, and performs simulation in a manner that changes in the period condition of at least one of the injection device and the detection device received by the first reception unit are reflected to each of the plurality of analyses, and reflects a result of the simulation to the display device.

[0015] The support method of the present disclosure is a support method for supporting setting of analysis conditions of a liquid chromatograph system. The liquid chromatograph system includes a plurality of flow paths for separating components contained in a sample, an injection device that injects the sample into each of the plurality of flow paths, and a detection device that detects components separated by each of the plurality of flow paths, and is configured to be able to perform separation of components in the sample using each of the plurality of flow paths in parallel. The support method includes the steps of simulating a use period and a use start timing of each of the injection device, the plurality of flow paths, and the detection device in accordance with set analysis conditions, expressing the use period of each device in the length of a range bar for each device used, thereby displaying a result of the simulation on a display device, receiving input of an analysis condition, i.e., a period condition, related to the use period of the injection device and the detection device, and in the case where a plurality of analyses are set to be performed, displaying a range bar for each analysis, and in the case where the first receiving unit receives input of the period condition of at least one of the injection device and the detection device, performing simulation in a manner that changes in the period condition are reflected to each of the plurality of analyses, and reflecting a result of the simulation to the display device.

[0016] Effects of the Invention

[0017] According to the present disclosure, a range bar expressing the use period in the length is displayed for each device, each analysis, so the user can easily grasp the flow of the analysis, and by displaying the range bar for each analysis, it is also possible to easily grasp the idle condition between analyses in a visual manner. Furthermore, in the case where the first receiving unit receives input of the period condition of at least one of the injection device and the detection device, simulation is performed in a manner that changes in the period condition are reflected to each of the plurality of analyses, and a result of the simulation is reflected to the display device. Therefore, the user can intuitively grasp which of the plurality of period conditions is speeded up with respect to the shortening of the analysis time. As a result, it is possible to reduce the user's burden when performing optimization of the period condition. According to the above, it is possible to more easily set the analysis conditions in the liquid chromatograph system in which separation of components in the sample can be performed in parallel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0018] [ Figure 1 ] is a schematic configuration diagram of an LC system.

[0019] [ Figure 2 ] is a schematic configuration diagram of a flow path.

[0020] [ Figure 3 ] is a schematic diagram showing the hardware configuration of a support device.

[0021] [ Figure 4 ] is a flowchart showing the flow of a method of setting analysis conditions.

[0022] [ Figure 5 ] is a diagram schematically showing an example of the data structure of the analysis method DB.

[0023] [ Figure 6 ] is a diagram schematically showing an example of the data structure of a batch file.

[0024] [ Figure 7 ] is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen for an analysis method.

[0025] [ Figure 8 ] is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for analysis conditions.

[0026] [ Figure 9 ] is a diagram showing an input field.

[0027] [ Figure 10 ] is a graph showing the simulation results.

[0028] [ Figure 11 ] is a diagram showing another display form of the range bar.

[0029] [ Figure 12 ] is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for analysis conditions after parameter change.

[0030] [ Figure 13 ] is a flowchart showing the processing related to variant example 1.

[0031] [ Figure 14 ] is a flowchart showing the processing related to variant example 2.

[0032] [ Figure 15 ] is a diagram showing a situation where the length of the range bar is adjusted according to the display range. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, identical or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0034] [Overall system structure]

[0035] Reference Figure 1 A schematic configuration of a liquid chromatography system (hereinafter referred to as an LC (Liquid Chromatography) system) that supports setting of analysis conditions using a support device according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the LC system.

[0036] The LC system 1 separates components contained in a sample to be analyzed. The LC system 1 includes a sample injection device 10, a plurality of flow channels 12A to 12D, a flow selector valve 14, and a detector 16. Hereinafter, the flow channels 12A to 12D are referred to as "flow channels 12" without distinction.

[0037] The sample injection device 10 injects a sample into each of the plurality of flow channels 12A to 12D. The sample injection device 10 is, for example, an autosampler, which includes a sample plate capable of accommodating more than one sample and a needle, although not shown. The sample injection device 10 generally includes a plurality of sample plates. The needle sucks a sample from the sample plate and injects the sucked sample into a prescribed flow channel 12 in accordance with a set analysis condition.

[0038] The flow channels 12 are analysis flow paths for separating components contained in a sample, through which a mobile phase flows. Each of the flow channels 12A to 12D is connected to the detector 16 via the flow selector valve 14.

[0039] The flow selector valve 14 includes ports 141 to 146. The flow channels 12A to 12D are connected to the ports 141 to 144, respectively. The detector 16 is connected to the port 145. A drain pipe (not shown) is connected to the port 146. The flow selector valve 14 fluidically connects any one of the flow channels 12A to 12D to the detector 16 by switching the connection target of the port 141 to the port 145 or the port 146.

[0040] The detector 16 is disposed downstream of the flow channels 12A to 12D and analyzes components separated by each of the flow channels 12A to 12D. In one embodiment, the detector 16 is a mass spectrometer. The detector 16 is not limited to a mass spectrometer, but can be an absorbance detector, a fluorescence detector, a differential refractive index detector, a conductivity detector, an evaporative light scattering detector, or the like, and is not particularly limited.

[0041] As described above, in the LC system 1, the plurality of flow channels 12A to 12D are connected in parallel and connected to the detector 16 via the flow selector valve 14, whereby the LC system 1 is configured to be capable of performing separation of components in a sample using each of the flow channels 12A to 12D in parallel.

[0042] [Structure of flow channel]

[0043] Figure 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of a flow channel. The flow channel 12 includes a supply device 126, a valve 124, and a column 122. A mobile phase is transported from the supply device 126 toward the column 122, and the mobile phase is transported to the flow selector valve 14 through the column 122.

[0044] The supply device 126 supplies a mobile phase that flows in the flow path 12. The supply device 126 includes a plurality of solvent containers S1, S2, a mixer 261, and a mobile phase pump 262.

[0045] The plurality of solvent containers S1, S2 store solvents. The kinds of the solvents stored in the solvent containers S1, S2 can be different from each other or the same. In the present embodiment, the case where they are different is described.

[0046] The mixer 261 mixes each of the solvents supplied from the solvent containers S1, S2 at a prescribed ratio. The mixed solution mixed by the mixer 261 is delivered as a mobile phase toward the column 122 by the mobile phase pump 262. In addition, the prescribed ratio includes 0:100. The mixing ratio can be set to be fixed in the analysis of a sample or can be set to change with time in the analysis.

[0047] The mobile phase pump 262 delivers the mixed solution mixed by the mixer 261 as a mobile phase toward the valve 124.

[0048] The valve 124 switches the flow path connected to the supply device 126 to a flow path connected to the column 122 through the sample injection device 10 and a flow path connected to the column 122 without passing through the sample injection device 10. If a flow path in which the supply device 126, the sample injection device 10, and the column 122 are connected in series in the order described is referred to as an injection flow path, and a flow path in which the supply device 126 and the column 122 are connected in series in the order described without passing through the sample injection device 10 is referred to as a direct flow path, it can be said that the valve 124 switches between the injection flow path and the direct flow path.

[0049] The column 122 separates components contained in a sample injected from the sample injection device 10. In the column 122, a stationary phase for separating components contained in a sample is packed.

[0050] As described above, the flow path 12 is configured to separate components contained in a sample injected from the sample injection device 10.

[0051] In addition, Figure 2 The structure of the flow path 12 illustrated is an example and is not particularly limited. For example, the flow path 12 can include a flow path for delivering a cleaning solution. Also, the flow path 12 can be a structure that does not include the mixer 261 and includes one solvent container and is capable of delivering only one kind of solvent.

[0052] In addition, the structures of the flow paths 12A to 12D can be common to each other or different from each other. In the present embodiment, the case where the structures of the flow paths 12A to 12D are common to each other is described.

[0053] Further, in a case where the structures of the flow paths 12A to 12D are made different from each other, the flow paths 12A to 12D can be configured to be capable of switching between the straight connection flow path and the injection flow path, and include the supply device 126 and at least one column 122.

[0054] Further, the structures of the respective supply devices 126 included in the flow paths 12A to 12D can be made different from each other or common. By making the structures of the respective supply devices 126 different from each other, the kind of the mobile phase can be changed. Also, by making the kinds of the mobile phase pumps 262 included in the respective supply devices 126 different from each other, the settable range of the flow rate or the kind of the column 122 that can be used can be changed for each flow path 12. Also, the kind and / or the number of the respective columns 122 included in the flow paths 12A to 12D can be changed. Also, the flow paths 12A to 12D can further include a column oven for maintaining the temperature of the column 122.

[0055] [Hardware structure of support device]

[0056] Figure 3 is a schematic view showing a hardware structure of a support device. The support device 2 is a general-purpose personal computer (PC), a smartphone, or a tablet, and supports setting of an analysis condition in the LC system 1. The specific support method will be described later.

[0057] Reference Figure 3 The support device 2 includes a controller 201, an input device 202, and a display device 204. The input device 202 and the display device 204 are connected to the controller 201. The input device 202 includes, for example, a keyboard and a mouse. The user inputs various information to the controller 201 by operating the input device 202. The display device 204 displays an image corresponding to an image signal output from the controller 201. The display device 204 is, for example, a display.

[0058] The controller 201 includes a processor 21, a memory 22, a communication interface (I / F) 23, and an input / output I / F 24 as main constituent elements. The respective units are communicably connected to each other via a bus 25.

[0059] The processor 21 is typically an arithmetic processing unit such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU). The processor 21 reads out a program stored in the memory 22 and executes it, thereby controlling the operation of the support device 2.

[0060] The memory 22 is realized by, for example, a storage device such as a Read Only Memory (ROM), a Random Access Memory (RAM), and a Hard Disk Drive (HDD). The ROM stores a program executed by the processor 21. The RAM temporarily stores data used in execution of the program in the processor 21, and functions as a temporary data storage area. The HDD is a nonvolatile storage device. A semiconductor storage device such as a flash memory can be used instead of or in addition to the HDD. The program and / or data can also be stored in an external storage device accessible by the processor 21.

[0061] The communication I / F 23 is a communication interface for exchanging various data with the LC system 1, and is realized by an adapter or a connector, or the like. The communication method can be a wireless communication method using a wireless Local Area Network (LAN), or the like, or a wired communication method using a Universal Serial Bus (USB), or the like. The support device 2 acquires information related to the device configuration of the LC system 1 from the LC system 1 via the communication I / F 23, and transmits an analysis condition set in the support device 2 to the LC system 1. A control device not shown of the LC system 1 controls various devices (a pump, a valve, the sample injection device 10, the detector 16, and the like) constituting the LC system 1 in accordance with the transmitted analysis condition. The support device 2 can also have a function as the control device of the LC system 1.

[0062] The input / output I / F 24 is an interface for exchanging various data between the processor 21 and an external machine connected to the input / output I / F 24. The external machine includes the input device 202 and the display device 204.

[0063] [Setting method of analysis condition]

[0064] The setting method of the analysis condition will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 1. Figure 4 Figure 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of the setting method of the analysis condition. In addition, the flow shown in Figure 4 is an example, and is not limited thereto.

[0065] ​The analysis conditions are conditions under which the sample is analyzed each time the sample is analyzed, and include conditions defined according to the analysis method, the injection amount of the sample, the pretreatment conditions of the sample, the detection conditions of the detector 16, and the like. The analysis method that summarizes the conditions in the analysis conditions that can be set in common for each sample is information that specifies the analysis method for the sample, and includes, for example, the introduction ratio of the sample, the total flow rate of the mobile phase, the kind of solvent, the mixing ratio of the solvent, the elution method (gradient elution method, isocratic elution method), the cleaning time, and the like.

[0066] The support device 2 simulates the usage period and the usage start timing of each device to determine the injection timing of each sample and the timing at which the components separated by each flow path are detected (the switching timing of the flow splitter valve 14) when determining the analysis conditions of each sample and various conditions such as the flow path used.

[0067] In the present embodiment, as an example, a case in which a plurality of samples are all analyzed under the same analysis conditions is described. For example, in a clinical examination room of a hospital, an examination commissioning company, a pharmaceutical company, a research institution of a university, or the like, a plurality of test bodies (samples) are sometimes collectively processed under the same analysis conditions, and as an example, a method of setting the analysis conditions that assumes such processing is described.

[0068] In S100, the controller 201 creates the analysis method data 222 based on information input via the input device 202. Figure 5 This is a diagram that schematically represents an example of the data structure of the analysis method DB. The analysis method DB 220 includes a plurality of analysis method data 222. The controller 201 saves the created analysis method data 222 to the analysis method (database) DB 220 of the memory 22. The analysis method data 222 is information that specifies the analysis method, and includes the method name, the usage period of the flow path 12 when the analysis method is selected, the measurement mode (elution method), and the like. In addition, the analysis method data 222 can include the total flow rate of the mobile phase, the kind of solvent, the mixing ratio of the solvent, the cleaning time, and the like.

[0069] The method of creating the analysis method is not particularly limited. For example, the controller 201 can also provide a user interface that accepts the input of each analysis condition that constitutes the analysis method, and create the analysis method data 222 based on information input via the input device 202.

[0070] In S200, the controller 201 creates the batch file 224 based on information input via the input device 202. Figure 6is a drawing schematically showing an example of a data structure of a batch file. The batch file 224 is a file defining analysis conditions for each analysis. The batch file 224 contains, for each analysis, a plate number and a sample number indicating a position in which a sample is housed, a sample name, an analysis condition (an analysis method), and the like. Further, the number of analyses registered in the batch file 224 corresponds to the number of times of analysis, Figure 6 In the example shown, it is assumed that five analyses are registered.

[0071] The method of creating the batch file 224 is not particularly limited. For example, the controller 201 provides a user interface that receives selection of a plate number and a sample number, receives selection of one or more samples as measurement targets, and provides a user interface that receives selection of an analysis method, and assigns the analysis method to the selected one or more samples in common. The controller 201 creates the batch file 224 by assigning an analysis number to each of the selected one or more samples. Further, the controller 201 can also create the batch file 224 in a manner in which one sample is subjected to multiple analyses.

[0072] The analysis method is arbitrarily selected in accordance with the sample as an analysis target. The method of selecting the analysis method is not particularly limited. For example, the controller 201 displays one or more analysis methods stored in the analysis method DB 220 on the display device 204, and receives selection of an analysis method from the one or more analysis methods in accordance with an input operation by a user. Further, the controller 201 can also receive input of a sample as an analysis target, and select an appropriate analysis method from the analysis method DB 220 based on the kind of the received sample.

[0073] Figure 7 is a drawing showing an example of a selection screen of an analysis method. The screen 400 contains an input field 401, a confirmation button 402, and a cancel button 403. The screen 400 is displayed on the display device 204 by the controller 201. The input field 401 receives selection of an analysis method. That is, the input field 401 corresponds to a second receiving unit that receives selection of an analysis method. When the confirmation button 402 is selected, the controller 201 saves the analysis method input to the input field 401 as an analysis condition to the storage 22, and closes the screen 400. When the cancel button 403 is selected, the analysis method input to the input field 401 is not saved as an analysis condition to the storage 22, and the screen 400 is closed. In the present embodiment, as an example, the screen 400 is shown as a case in which a common analysis method is selected in each analysis. Alternatively, it is also possible to select an analysis method for each analysis. At this time, in the batch file 224, the analysis method selected for each analysis number is registered.

[0074] When the analysis method is selected, the usage period of the flow path 12 is determined. The usage period of the flow path 12 refers to a period from the time when the sample is injected into the flow path 12 to the time when the flow path 12 becomes ready for injection of the next sample, in a case where analysis is performed using the analysis method. For example, the cleaning time of the column or the flow path is included in the usage period of the flow path 12. The controller 201 can confirm the usage period by referring to the analysis method data 222 corresponding to the analysis method registered for each analysis.

[0075] In S300, the controller 201 receives input of other detailed conditions. The detailed conditions are conditions other than the analysis method that do not affect the usage period of the flow path 12, such as a pre-treatment condition of the sample, a detection condition of the detector 16, a margin time considering an actual analysis condition, the number of flow paths used, and the like. The actual analysis condition refers to a condition that cannot be uniquely determined by the analysis condition alone, such as a processing time on the controller 201 required for data processing or data saving after analysis.

[0076] The controller 201 creates a control schedule for controlling each device using the simulated usage period and usage start timing of each device when the analysis method of the sample and each analysis condition such as the number of flow paths used are determined. The controller 201 transmits the created control schedule of each device to the LC system 1. The LC system 1 controls each device in accordance with the transmitted control schedule, thereby performing each process such as pre-treatment, post-treatment, injection into the flow path 12, separation, detection, and the like for each sample.

[0077] In the present embodiment, when the selection of the analysis method is received in the input field 401, the controller 201 determines the usage period corresponding to the received analysis method by referring to the analysis method data 222, performs simulation using the determined usage period, and displays the result of the simulation on the display device 204. The user confirms the displayed simulation result and inputs other detailed conditions via the input device 202. Since the usage period is determined in advance for each analysis method, the processing load on the controller 201 can be reduced in simulation. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the controller 201 receives the selection of one analysis method, thereby assigning the analysis method to one or more samples selected uniformly. That is, the controller 201 performs simulation by applying the received analysis method to each of a plurality of analyses. Therefore, in a case where a plurality of samples are processed collectively under the same analysis condition, it is not necessary to input the analysis method one by one for each analysis, and the user burden can be reduced.

[0078] As described above, the LC system 1 is capable of performing separation of components in samples using each of the flow channels 12A to 12D in parallel by connecting the flow channels 12A to 12D in parallel and connecting to the detector 16. For example, the LC system 1 is capable of performing separation of components in samples using each of the flow channels 12A to 12D in parallel by staggering the timing of injection of samples into the flow channels 12A to 12D, and by switching the flow channel 12 connected to the detector 16, the components separated by the flow channels 12A to 12D can be continuously detected, improving the analysis efficiency.

[0079] In the LC system 1, the analysis conditions are set in a manner that the idle period in each flow channel 12 is shortened, whereby the analysis efficiency can be further improved. In the present embodiment, the "idle period" includes the period from the end of one analysis to the start of the next analysis in one flow channel 12. In the present embodiment, the "one analysis in one flow channel 12" refers to the period from the start of injection of a sample into one flow channel 12 to the state where the flow channel 12 becomes capable of injecting the next sample.

[0080] On the other hand, in the LC system 1, the mobile phase is continuously continuously flowing, and the components in the mobile phase are detected by the detector 16, so the timing at which the components separated by one flow channel 12 reach the detector 16 coincides with the timing at which the components separated by another flow channel 12 reach the detector 16, and the analysis conditions must be set in a manner that does not interfere with each other.

[0081] Thus, in the LC system 1 in which separation of components in samples using each of a plurality of flow channels 12 can be performed in parallel, there are a plurality of points to be considered in the setting of analysis conditions, and it is difficult to determine the analysis conditions.

[0082] In the present embodiment, to support the determination of analysis conditions, the controller 201 displays the results of simulation of the usage period and the usage start timing of each device in accordance with the set analysis conditions on the display device 204. The controller 201 separately displays a range bar indicating the usage period for each analysis. Thereby, the user can easily grasp the idle time or the degree of interference between analyses, and can more easily set the analysis conditions.

[0083] [Setting screen of analysis conditions]

[0084] Figure 8 is a drawing showing an example of a setting screen of analysis conditions. The screen 300 includes a parameter list 31, a simulation result 32, a confirmation button 33, and a cancel button 34.

[0085] The parameter list 31 displays a list of parameters, among the parameters set as the analysis conditions, that are related to the usage period and the usage start timing. In the parameter list 31, an input field 310 is provided for each parameter. The plurality of parameters displayed in the parameter list 31 include parameters that can be changed and parameters that cannot be changed. The input field 310A corresponding to the parameters that can be changed and the input field 310B corresponding to the parameters that cannot be changed are displayed in different display forms. Input to the input field 310A is accepted, whereas input to the input field 310B is not accepted.

[0086] The simulation result 32 is a result of simulating the usage period and the usage start timing of each device in accordance with the set analysis conditions. The simulation result 32 is indicated for each device by a range bar 320 that represents the usage period in length. The range bar 320 is indicated separately for each analysis.

[0087] Further, in the simulation result 32, a comparison result 35 that compares the time taken for all of the plurality of analyses when the set plurality of analyses are performed using only one flow path 12 and when the analyses are performed in accordance with the set analysis conditions is displayed. For example, a productivity improvement rate is displayed as the comparison result 35. The productivity improvement rate R is calculated in accordance with Expression 1 based on the time Tl required until an analysis ends, the number of analyses N registered in the batch file 224, and the time T2 required until all of the analyses end when the analyses are performed in the set analysis conditions.

[0088] R = 100 x (Tl x N / T2)... (Expression 1)

[0089] Thus, by displaying the comparison result 35, it is possible to confirm to what extent the analysis time can be shortened, and, in the case where the analysis conditions are changed, it is possible to confirm how the comparison result changes, and the user easily sets the optimal analysis conditions.

[0090] When the OK button 33 is selected, the controller 201 saves the analysis conditions (various parameters) input in the screen 300 to the memory 22 and closes the screen 300. When the cancel button 34 is selected, the analysis conditions (various parameters) input in the screen 300 are not saved to the memory 22 and the screen 300 is closed.

[0091] Reference will be made to Figure 9 and Figure 10 to explain the correspondence between the various parameters and the simulation result. Figure 9 is a diagram that represents an input field. Figure 10 is a diagram that represents a simulation result.

[0092] Reference will be made to Figure 9The plurality of input fields 310 provided in the parameter list 31 include an input field 311 to 313 of a parameter related to the sample injection device 10, an input field 314 of a parameter related to the flow path 12, an input field 315 to 317 of a parameter related to the detector 16, and an input field 318 of a parameter indicating the number of the flow path 12 used. The input to the input field 313, 314 among the input fields 311 to 317 is not accepted, whereas the input to the input fields 311, 312, 315 to 318 is accepted.

[0093] The parameters corresponding to the input fields 313, 314 are parameters determined in accordance with the selected analysis method. In correspondence with the change of the analysis method, the values displayed in the input fields 313, 314 are also changed. For example, the parameter of the input field 314 indicates the usage period of the flow path 12.

[0094] The parameter corresponding to the input field 311 is the margin time set for the pretreatment time in consideration of the actual analysis conditions. The parameter corresponding to the input field 312 is the margin time set for the post-treatment time in consideration of the actual analysis conditions.

[0095] The parameter corresponding to the input field 315 is a parameter related to the detector 16, and is the time from the start of the system for one analysis until the start of the detection.

[0096] The parameter corresponding to the input field 316 is the detection period during which the detection is continued from the start of the detection. The parameter corresponding to the input field 317 is the margin time set for the detection period in consideration of the actual analysis conditions.

[0097] Figure 9 The input fields 311, 312, 315 to 317 in the parameter list 31 shown correspond to the first reception section which accepts the input of the analysis conditions, i.e., the period conditions, related to the usage periods of the sample injection device 10 and the detector 16. Further, the parameter list 31 is configured not to accept the input of the analysis conditions determined in accordance with the analysis method, whereas it is configured to accept the input of other analysis conditions (e.g., the period conditions of the sample injection device 10 and the detector 16, the number of flow paths, etc.).

[0098] Referring to Figure 10 The simulation results are displayed in the form of Gantt charts 341 to 346 for each device. The Gantt charts 341 to 346 include at least one range bar 320. The range bar 320 is displayed separately for each analysis, and the length of the range bar 320 indicates the period during which the device is used in one analysis.

[0099] Thus, the range bar indicating the usage period in length is displayed for each device, each analysis, so the user can easily grasp the flow of the analysis, and by displaying the range bar for each analysis, the user can also easily grasp the idle condition between analyses in a visual manner.

[0100] The Gantt chart 341 indicating the usage period of the sample injection device 10 includes a plurality of range bars 321A to 321E, 322A to 322E. The range bars 321A to 321E vary in accordance with the parameters input to the input field 311, and indicate the margin time set for the pretreatment time. The range bars 322A to 322E vary in accordance with the parameters input to the input field 312, and indicate the margin time set for the post-treatment time.

[0101] Each of the Gantt charts 342 to 345 indicating the usage period of the flow path 1 to the flow path 4 includes a range bar 324A to 324E. Specifically, the Gantt chart 342 includes the range bars 324A, 324E, the Gantt chart 343 includes the range bar 324B, the Gantt chart 344 includes the range bar 324C, and the Gantt chart 345 includes the range bar 324D. The range bars 324A to 324E vary in accordance with the parameters shown in the input field 314, and indicate the usage period of the flow path 12. In addition, the usage period of the flow path 12 is set in accordance with the analysis method, so the usage period of each analysis of the flow path 12 does not vary in accordance with the operation on the screen 300. In addition, the start timing of the usage of the flow path 12 varies in accordance with each parameter input by the operation on the screen 300.

[0102] The Gantt chart 346 indicating the usage period of the detector 16 includes a plurality of range bars 326A to 326E, 327A to 327E. The range bars 326A to 326E vary in accordance with the parameters input to the input field 316, and indicate the detection period during which the detection is continued from the start of the detection. The range bars 327A to 327E vary in accordance with the parameters input to the input field 317, and indicate the margin time set for the detection period.

[0103] In the LC system 1, the process is advanced in the order of the injection of the sample by the sample injection device 10, the separation of the components in the sample by the flow path 12, and the detection of the components by the detector 16. That is, one analysis includes at least these processes. In addition, in the case where the pretreatment and the post-treatment of the sample are performed by the sample injection device 10, the pretreatment process and the post-treatment process are also included in one analysis.

[0104] Figure 9In the example shown, a series of the range bars 321A, 322A, 324A, 326A, 327A is displayed in an analysis. Also, a series of the range bars 321B, 322B, 324B, 326B, 327B is displayed in an analysis, a series of the range bars 321C, 322C, 324C, 326C, 327C is displayed in an analysis, a series of the range bars 321D, 322D, 324D, 326D, 327D is displayed in an analysis, and a series of the range bars 321E, 322E, 324E, 326E, 327E is displayed in an analysis. Further, hereinafter, the analysis corresponding to the range bar 324A, the range bar 324B, the range bar 324C, the range bar 324D, and the range bar 324E are sometimes referred to as the analysis A, the analysis B, the analysis C, the analysis D, and the analysis E, respectively.

[0105] The range bars 321A to 321E, 324A to 324E, 326A to 326E are displayed in different display forms according to the flow path used in the corresponding analysis. For example, the range bars 321A, 324A, 326A, 321E, 324E, 326E indicating the use period of the analysis using the flow path 1 are displayed in a common display form, respectively. On the other hand, the range bars 321B, 324B, 326B indicating the use period of the analysis using the flow path 2 different from the flow path 1 are displayed in a common display form and a display form different from the range bars 321A, respectively.

[0106] Further, the range bars 321A to 321E, 324A to 324E, 326A to 326E can be displayed in different display forms according to the corresponding analysis. Figure 11 is a view showing another display form of the range bar. As shown in Figure 11 The range bars 321A, 322A, 324A, 326A, 327A corresponding to the analysis A are displayed in a common display form, respectively. On the other hand, the range bars 321E, 322E, 324E, 326E, 327E corresponding to the analysis E using the same flow path 1 as the analysis A are displayed in a common display form and a display form different from the range bars 321A, respectively.

[0107] Further, a part of the range bars 322A to 322E displayed in the simulation result 32 are displayed in a common display form, respectively. Also, the range bars 327A to 327E are displayed in a common display form, respectively. In this way, the range bars corresponding to the common parameter can be displayed in a common display form.

[0108] By displaying the range bars in this display form, it is possible to visually indicate the flow of an analysis that distinguishes the processes for each device, and the user can easily grasp the relationship between the devices.

[0109] In addition, the period indicated by the parameter corresponding to the input field 315 is indicated by the length from the end of the range bar 324A indicating the use period of the flow path to the end of the range bar 326A indicating the detection period of the detector 16.

[0110] When the parameters corresponding to various analysis conditions are changed, the controller 201 performs simulation in accordance with the changes and updates the display of the simulation results 32. At this time, when the changes in the parameters are accepted, the controller 201 performs simulation in a manner that reflects the changes in the parameters to each of the set plurality of analyses and updates the display of the simulation results 32.

[0111] For example, when the parameters of the input field 311 are changed, the display of the simulation results 32 is updated to change the lengths of all the range bars 321A to 321E.

[0112] Thus, when the input of the analysis conditions, i.e., the period conditions, related to the use periods of the sample injection device 10 and the detector 16 is accepted via the parameter list 31, simulation is performed in a manner that reflects the changes in the period conditions to each of the plurality of analyses, and the results are reflected to the display device. Therefore, the user can intuitively grasp which of the plurality of period conditions controls the speed with respect to the shortening of the analysis time. As a result, the user burden when optimizing the period conditions can be reduced.

[0113] In addition, the controller 201 can also accept changes in the parameters by operating the range bars displayed in the simulation results 32. For example, when the pointer 328 is moved to the end of the range bar 326A via the input device 202, the controller 201 displays the adjustment key mark 329 on the screen 300. It is also possible to stretch or contract the range bar 326A by dragging in a state where the adjustment key mark 329 displayed at the end of the range bar 326A is selected with the pointer 328, thereby changing the parameter corresponding to the range bar 326A. In addition, at this time, the controller 201 also updates the display of the simulation results 32 to reflect the changes in the range bar 326A to each of the range bars 326B to 326E. The adjustment with the adjustment key mark 329 can be performed on the range bar corresponding to the changeable parameter.

[0114] Thus, the period conditions can be changed by operating the range bars, and it is possible to change the period conditions while confirming the idle times between the analyses indicated by the range bars and the range bars.

[0115] [Example of update of parameter-based change]

[0116] Reference is made to Figure 8 and Figure 12 to explain how the simulation result changes when the parameter (analysis condition) is changed, and how the display of the simulation result 32 is updated. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen of the analysis condition after the parameter is changed.

[0117] For example, the controller 201 performs simulation in accordance with the changed "8.73 minutes" in the case where the change of the time until the start of detection is accepted. Thus, the simulation result of the detector 16 is changed. In addition, Figure 12 In the example shown in , the time until the start of detection is 8.73 minutes, and the detection period is 2 minutes, in contrast to which, the usage period of the flow path is 10 minutes, and the time at the end of detection is later than the time at the end of the usage of the flow path, and thus is not appropriate as the analysis condition. Thus, the time until the start of detection as the analysis condition and the detection period as the analysis condition are not appropriate, and are the analysis conditions that become the cause of the failure to achieve analysis.

[0118] The controller 201 performs emphasized display on the input field and the range bar corresponding to the analysis condition that becomes the cause of the failure to achieve analysis. Specifically, the controller 201 displays the frame 354 that emphasizes the input field corresponding to the analysis condition that becomes the cause, or displays the frame 352 that emphasizes the range bar corresponding to the analysis condition that becomes the cause.

[0119] In addition, Figure 12 In the example shown in , the controller 201 performs emphasized display on the range bar and the input field corresponding to the analysis condition that becomes the cause, and part of the range bars and the input fields, but can perform emphasized display on all of the range bars and the input fields corresponding to the analysis condition that becomes the cause.

[0120] By performing emphasized display like this, it is possible to easily determine the analysis condition that becomes the cause of the failure to achieve analysis, and by performing emphasized display on the range bar, it is possible to visually confirm the overall schedule, the interference situation of analysis, and the like, and thus the user can more easily guess what kind of correction is good to achieve analysis.

[0121] In addition, the controller 201 can perform different processing in the case where the result of the simulation in accordance with the changed value is judged to be impossible to implement. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the processing related to the modified example 1.

[0122] Reference is made to Figure 13In S301, the controller 201 determines whether or not the input of the parameter has been accepted. If it is determined that the input has not been accepted (NO in S301), the controller 201 ends the processing. If it is determined that the input has been accepted (YES in S301), the controller 201 advances the processing to S302.

[0123] In S302, the controller 201 performs simulation.

[0124] In S303, the controller 201 determines whether or not there is an error in the result of the simulation. If it is determined that there is no error (NO in S303), the controller 201 displays the result of the simulation in S305 in the display device 204 and ends the processing. If it is determined that there is an error (YES in S303), the controller 201 advances the processing to S304.

[0125] In S304, the controller 201 sets a value closest to the input value accepted and for which analysis can be performed. That is, the controller 201 sets a maximum value or a minimum value. For example, in the case of the input example shown in Figure 12 the use period of the flow path is 10 minutes, the time until the start of the detection is set again from "8.73 minutes" to "8 minutes" (= the use period of the flow path 10 minutes - the detection time 2 minutes) so that the time until the start of the detection plus the detection period is 10 minutes.

[0126] After the controller 201 sets the value within the range for which analysis can be performed in S304, the processing after S302 is performed again. At this time, since the value within the range for which analysis can be performed is set, the controller 201 determines that there is no error (NO in S303) and displays the result of the simulation of the value set again in S305.

[0127] In this way, the controller 201 can also set again a value closest to the input value accepted within the range for which analysis can be performed in the case where the result of the simulation according to the changed value is determined to be unfeasible. By setting the value again like this, the user can easily understand that the analysis conditions input by the user are inappropriate and can know the range that can be input.

[0128] In addition, the controller 201 can also cancel the input of the changed value in the case where the result of the simulation according to the changed value is determined to be unfeasible. Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the processing related to the modified example 2. Figure 14 The flowchart shown in Figure 13 The flowchart shown in

[0129] When it is determined that there is an error in the simulation according to the input condition (NO in S303), the controller 201 cancels the acceptance of the input of the condition in S304A and ends the process.

[0130] For example, in the case of the input example shown in Figure 12 In the case of the input example shown in

[0131] Thus, the controller 201 can also cancel the input of the changed value when the result of the simulation according to the changed value is determined to be impossible. By canceling the input, the user can easily understand that the analysis condition input by the user is inappropriate.

[0132] Further, the controller 201 can also display the range bar with the length thereof adjusted according to the display range of the simulation result. Figure 15 is a view showing a case where the range bar is displayed with the length thereof adjusted according to the display range. As shown in Figure 15 The controller 201 can also display the simulation result with the length of the range bar 320 adjusted in a manner that converges within the display range of the simulation result 32. In addition, the length of the range bar 320 corresponds to the length of time, and thus the ratio of the lengths of the respective range bars 320 does not change before and after the adjustment.

[0133] By displaying the simulation result in a manner that converges within the display range as such, the entire flow of the analysis to be performed in the LC system 1 can be confirmed at a glance.

[0134] [Mode]

[0135] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiments and modifications described above are specific examples of the following modes.

[0136] The support device of the first item supports setting of analysis conditions of a liquid chromatograph system. The liquid chromatograph system includes a plurality of flow paths for separating components contained in a sample, an injection device that injects the sample into each of the plurality of flow paths, and a detection device that detects components separated by each of the plurality of flow paths, and is configured to be able to perform separation of components in the sample using each of the plurality of flow paths in parallel. The support device includes a display device, and a control device that simulates a usage period and a usage start timing of each of the injection device, the plurality of flow paths, and the detection device in accordance with the set analysis conditions, and displays a result of the simulation on the display device by expressing the usage period of each device in the length of a range bar. The control device includes a first reception unit that receives input of a period condition that is an analysis condition related to the usage period of the injection device and the detection device. The control device displays a range bar for each analysis when a plurality of analyses are set, and performs the simulation in a manner that reflects a change in the period condition to each of the plurality of analyses when the first reception unit receives input of the period condition of at least one of the injection device and the detection device, and reflects a result of the simulation to the display device.

[0137] The support device of the first item displays a range bar that expresses the usage period in the length for each device and each analysis, so the user can easily grasp the flow of the analysis, and by displaying the range bar for each analysis, it is also possible to easily grasp the idle condition between analyses in a visual manner. Furthermore, when the first reception unit receives input of the period condition of at least one of the injection device and the detection device, the simulation is performed in a manner that reflects a change in the period condition to each of the plurality of analyses, and the result is reflected to the display device. Therefore, the user can intuitively grasp which of the plurality of period conditions is speeded up with respect to the shortening of the analysis time. As a result, it is possible to reduce the user's burden when optimizing the period conditions. According to the above, it is possible to more easily set the analysis conditions in the liquid chromatograph system in which separation of components in the sample is performed in parallel.

[0138] The support device of the first item further includes a storage device that stores analysis method data including an analysis method and a usage period of a flow path when the analysis method is selected. The control device further includes a second reception unit that receives selection of an analysis method. The control device, when a plurality of analyses are set, determines a usage period corresponding to the received analysis method with reference to the analysis method data stored in the storage device when the second reception unit receives selection of an analysis method, performs the simulation using the determined usage period, and displays a result of the simulation on the display device.

[0139] The support device according to the second aspect can reduce the processing load on the control device in the simulation.

[0140] The support device according to the third aspect can reduce the user's burden in the case where a plurality of samples are collectively processed under the same analysis conditions.

[0141] The support device according to the third aspect can reduce the user's burden in the case where a plurality of samples are collectively processed under the same analysis conditions.

[0142] The support device according to the fourth aspect can make it easier for the user to grasp the schedule of the plurality of analyses as a whole.

[0143] The support device according to the fourth aspect can make it easier for the user to grasp the schedule of the plurality of analyses as a whole.

[0144] The support device according to the fifth aspect can change the period condition by operating the range bar, and thus can change the period condition while confirming the analysis indicated between the range bars and the idle time between the analyses.

[0145] The support device according to the fifth aspect can change the period condition by operating the range bar, and thus can change the period condition while confirming the analysis indicated between the range bars and the idle time between the analyses.

[0146] The support device according to the sixth aspect can easily determine the analysis condition that is the cause of the failure to achieve the analysis, and by highlighting the range bar, can visually confirm the overall schedule, the interference of the analyses, and the like, and thus the user can more easily infer what kind of correction is desirable to achieve the analysis.

[0147] The support device according to the sixth aspect can easily determine the analysis condition that is the cause of the failure to achieve the analysis, and by highlighting the range bar, can visually confirm the overall schedule, the interference of the analyses, and the like, and thus the user can more easily infer what kind of correction is desirable to achieve the analysis.

[0148] The support device according to the seventh aspect can cancel the change content received by the first reception unit in the case where it is determined based on the result of the simulation that the analysis cannot be achieved.

[0149] According to the support device of the seventh aspect, the user can easily understand that the analysis conditions input by the user are inappropriate.

[0150] (Eighth aspect) In the support device of any one of the first to fifth aspects, the control device displays, on the display device, a simulation result of conditions that are changed to conditions that enable analysis and that are closest to the period conditions received by the first reception unit, in a case where the simulation based on the period conditions received by the first reception unit is determined to be impossible.

[0151] According to the support device of the eighth aspect, the user can easily understand that the analysis conditions input by the user are inappropriate, and can know the range that can be input.

[0152] (Ninth aspect) In the support device of any one of the first to eighth aspects, in a case where a plurality of analyses are set to be performed, the control device compares, with respect to analysis time taken until all of the plurality of analyses are completed, a case where the plurality of analyses are performed based on the set analysis conditions and a case where the plurality of analyses are performed using one flow path, and displays a comparison result on the display device.

[0153] According to the support device of the ninth aspect, by displaying the comparison result, it is possible to confirm to what extent the analysis time can be shortened, and, in a case where the analysis conditions are changed, it is possible to confirm how the comparison result changes, and the user can easily set optimal analysis conditions.

[0154] (Tenth aspect) In the support device of any one of the first to ninth aspects, in a case where a plurality of analyses are set to be performed, the control device displays, on the display device, a range bar indicating a usage period in a different form for each analysis.

[0155] According to the support device of the tenth aspect, it is possible to visually indicate a flow of one analysis that is distinguished by a process for each device, and the user can easily grasp the relationship between the devices.

[0156] (Eleventh aspect) In the support device of any one of the first to ninth aspects, in a case where a plurality of analyses are set to be performed and the plurality of analyses are divided into a plurality of flow paths to be performed, the control device displays, on the display device, a range bar corresponding to a usage period of each of the plurality of analyses in a different display form according to the flow path used.

[0157] According to the support device of the eleventh aspect, it is possible to visually indicate a flow of one analysis that is distinguished by a process for each device, and the user can easily grasp the relationship between the devices.

[0158] (12) One form of a support method is a support method for supporting setting of analysis conditions of a liquid chromatograph system. The liquid chromatograph system includes a plurality of flow paths for separating components contained in a sample, an injection device that injects the sample into each of the plurality of flow paths, and a detection device that detects components separated by each of the plurality of flow paths, and is configured to be able to perform separation of components in the sample using each of the plurality of flow paths in parallel. The support method includes the steps of simulating a use period and a use start timing of each of the injection device, the plurality of flow paths, and the detection device in accordance with the set analysis conditions, expressing the use period of each device in the length of a range bar, thereby displaying a result of the simulation on a display device, receiving input of an analysis condition, i.e., a period condition, related to the use period of the injection device and the detection device, and in a case where a plurality of analyses are set to be performed, displaying a range bar for each analysis, and in a case where the first receiving unit receives input of the period condition of at least one of the injection device and the detection device, performing simulation in a manner that changes in the period condition are reflected to each of the plurality of analyses, and reflecting a result of the simulation to the display device.

[0159] (13) One form of a support program is a program for causing a computer to execute the support method described in (12).

[0160] (14) One form of a computer-readable medium stores the control program described in (13).

[0161] According to the support method, the support program, and the computer-readable medium described in (12) to (14), a range bar expressing the use period in the length is displayed for each device and each analysis, so the user can easily grasp the flow of the analysis, and by displaying the range bar for each analysis, it is also possible to easily grasp the idle condition between analyses in a visual manner. Furthermore, in a case where the first receiving unit receives input of the period condition of at least one of the injection device and the detection device, simulation is performed in a manner that changes in the period condition are reflected to each of the plurality of analyses, and a result of the simulation is reflected to the display device. Therefore, the user can intuitively grasp which of the plurality of period conditions is speeded up with respect to shortening of the analysis time. As a result, it is possible to reduce the user burden when performing optimization of the period condition. According to the above, it is possible to more easily set the analysis conditions in the liquid chromatograph system in which separation of components in the sample is performed in parallel.

[0162] The embodiments disclosed this time are not limited to the configurations of the above-described embodiments, but various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the present application. The embodiments disclosed this time are to be considered merely as examples, and the true scope of the present application is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and equivalents thereof are intended to be encompassed by the scope of the claims.

[0163] Explanation of Figure Numbers

[0164] 1: LC system

[0165] 2: Supported devices

[0166] 10: Sample injection device

[0167] 12, 12A~12D: flow channel

[0168] 14: Diverter valve

[0169] 16: Detector

[0170] 21: Processor

[0171] 22: Memory

[0172] 23: Communication I / F

[0173] 24: Input / Output I / F

[0174] 25: Bus

[0175] 31: Parameter List

[0176] 32: Simulation results

[0177] 33. 402: Confirm button

[0178] 34. 403: Cancel button

[0179] 35: Comparison results

[0180] 122: Pipeline

[0181] 124: Valve

[0182] 126: Supply device

[0183] 141-146: Interface

[0184] 201: Controller

[0185] 202: Input device

[0186] 204: Display device

[0187] 220: Analysis Method DB

[0188] 222: Analytical Method Data

[0189] 224: Batch Files

[0190] 261: Mixer

[0191] 262: Mobile phase pump

[0192] 300, 400: screen

[0193] 310, 310A, 310B, 311-318, 401: input field

[0194] 320, 321A-321E, 322A-322E, 324A-324E, 326A-326E, 327A-327E: range bar

[0195] 329: adjustment key mark

[0196] 341-346: Gantt chart

[0197] 352, 354: frame

[0198] S1, S2: solvent container

Claims

1. A support device for supporting the setting of analysis conditions of a liquid chromatography system, wherein The liquid chromatograph system comprises: Multiple flow channels for separating components contained in a sample; an injection device for injecting a sample into each of the plurality of flow channels; as well as a detection device for detecting components separated by passing through each of the plurality of flow channels, The liquid chromatograph system is configured to perform separation of components in a sample using each of the plurality of flow channels in parallel. The supporting device comprises: display device; as well as a control device that simulates the use period and use start timing of each of the injection device, the plurality of flow channels, and the detection device based on the set analysis conditions, and indicates the use period of each device by the length of a range bar for each device used, thereby displaying the simulation results on the display device; The control device includes a first receiving unit that receives input of a period condition, which is an analysis condition related to a usage period of the injection device and the detection device. When it is set to perform multiple analyses, a range bar is displayed for each analysis, and when the first receiving unit receives the input of the period condition of at least one of the injection device and the detection device, the simulation is performed in a manner that reflects the change of the period condition to each of the multiple analyses, and the result of the simulation is reflected to the display device.

2. The support device according to claim 1, further comprising: a storage device storing analysis method data including an analysis method and a usage period of a flow channel when the analysis method is selected; The control device further includes a second receiving unit that receives selection of the analysis method. When the second accepting unit accepts the selection of the analysis method in a case where a plurality of analyses are set to be performed, referring to the analysis method data stored in the storage device to determine the usage period corresponding to the accepted analysis method, performing the simulation using the determined usage period, The simulation result is displayed on the display device.

3. The support device according to claim 2, wherein When the second accepting unit accepts the selection of the analysis method in a case where a plurality of analyses are set to be performed, the control device applies the accepted analysis method to each of the plurality of analyses to perform the simulation.

4. The support device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The control device changes the length of a range bar according to a display range of the simulation result and displays the simulation result on the display device.

5. The support device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The first accepting unit accepts a change in the period condition by dragging an end portion of a range bar displayed on the display device.

6. The support device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein When the control device determines that the analysis is not possible based on the result of the simulation, the control device highlights a range bar indicating a usage period corresponding to the analysis condition causing the analysis to be impossible.

7. The support device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The control device cancels the changes accepted by the first accepting unit when determining that analysis is not possible based on the result of the simulation.

8. The support device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein When the result of the simulation based on the period condition accepted by the first accepting unit determines that analysis is not possible, the control device displays the simulation result on the display device after changing the condition to a condition that enables analysis and is closest to the period condition accepted by the first accepting unit.

9. The support device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein When the control device is set to perform multiple analyses, the control device compares the analysis time required to complete all of the multiple analyses when the multiple analyses are performed according to the set analysis conditions and when the multiple analyses are performed using one flow channel, and displays the comparison result on the display device.

10. The support device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein When the control device is set to perform a plurality of analyses, the control device displays the range bar indicating the usage period on the display device in a different form for each analysis.

11. The support device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein When the control device sets to perform a plurality of analyses and divides the plurality of analyses into a plurality of flow channels, the control device displays range bars corresponding to usage periods of the respective plurality of analyses in different display forms depending on the flow channels used.

12. A support method for supporting the setting of analysis conditions of a liquid chromatography system, wherein The liquid chromatograph system comprises: Multiple flow channels for separating components contained in a sample; an injection device for injecting a sample into each of the plurality of flow channels; as well as a detection device for detecting components separated by passing through each of the plurality of flow channels, The liquid chromatograph system is configured to perform separation of components in a sample using each of the plurality of flow channels in parallel. The supporting method comprises the following steps: simulating the usage period and usage start timing of each of the injection device, the plurality of flow channels, and the detection device according to the set analysis conditions, indicating the usage period of each device by the length of a range bar, and displaying the simulation results on a display device; accepting input of analysis conditions, i.e., period conditions, related to the use periods of the injection device and the detection device; as well as When it is set to perform multiple analyses, a range bar is displayed for each analysis, and in response to a case where the input of the period conditions of at least one of the injection device and the detection device is accepted, the simulation is performed in a manner that reflects the changes in the period conditions to each of the multiple analyses, and the results of the simulation are reflected to the display device.

Images