Preparation chromatography automated collector having an automatically highable z-arm collection module, use thereof and

Abstract

The invention relates to a preparative chromatography automatic collector with a Z arm collecting module capable of automatically lifting, application of the preparative chromatography automatic collector and a preparative chromatograph comprising the preparative chromatography automatic collector, the preparative chromatography automatic collector comprises an operation table top, an X arm, a Y arm and a Z arm, and the height of the Z arm collecting module of the Z arm can achieve the moving distance of 20-300 mm in the working process. The device can adapt to collection containers of various heights, the application range of the device is widened, and one device can meet the requirements for preparation, separation and collection of different scales.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application belongs to the field of preparative chromatography, and particularly relates to a preparative chromatography automatic collector with a Z-arm collection module capable of automatic lifting, use thereof, and a preparative chromatograph comprising the same. BACKGROUND

[0002] Chromatography, also known as color layer method or chromatography, is a physical and chemical analysis method. It utilizes the difference in the interaction force (distribution, adsorption, ion exchange, etc.) between different solutes (samples) and stationary phase and mobile phase. When the two phases move relatively, each solute undergoes multiple equilibria between the two phases, so that each solute is separated from each other. Preparative chromatography refers to the preparation of pure substances by using chromatographic technology, i.e. separating and collecting one or more chromatographically pure substances. The concept of "preparation" in preparative chromatography refers to obtaining a sufficient amount of a single compound to meet research and other purposes. The emergence of preparative chromatography has established a link between chromatographic technology and economic benefits. The amount of preparation and the cost are two important indicators of preparative chromatography.

[0003] The preparative chromatography collector is a key module of a high-throughput preparative chromatograph, which can realize automatic component collection. When the preparative chromatography system determines that the collection conditions are met, the mechanical arm is moved above the specified collection tube, and the collection valve is opened for collection. When the collection is completed, the system closes the collection valve and moves to the next collection position, and automatically determines whether to continue collection.

[0004] The current mainstream collector Z-arm collection module includes a Z-arm fixed module installed on the Y-axis and perpendicular to the operation table, and a collection valve fixed on the Z-arm collection module. The height of the Z-arm collection module can only be manually adjusted in the non-working state of the separation system. In the working state of the system, it is in a fixed state and cannot realize automatic lifting, i.e. cannot realize automatic adjustment of the height. Therefore, it can only use the same height of the collector in the work.

[0005] The preparative chromatograph produced by Waters Company can make slight height adjustment of the collection Z-arm during work to prevent the flow from splashing out. However, the adjustment range is very limited, only a few millimeters or so, which cannot meet the requirements of height adjustment for different specifications of collection containers.

[0006] Therefore, it is an urgent problem in the industry to provide a preparative chromatography automatic collector with a Z-arm collection module capable of automatic lifting, which can automatically adjust the height during work to flexibly adapt to collection containers of various heights. SUMMARY

[0007] In view of the above problems, one of the purposes of the present application is to provide a preparation chromatography automatic collector with a Z-arm collection module capable of automatic lifting, which can be adapted to collection containers of various heights, improve the application range of the equipment, and realize that one equipment meets the preparation separation and collection requirements of different scales.

[0008] To achieve the above-mentioned purposes, the present application provides the following technical solutions: the present application provides a preparation chromatography automatic collector with a Z-arm collection module capable of automatic lifting, comprising an operation table, an X-arm, a Y-arm and a Z-arm, wherein the Z-arm collection module of the Z-arm can realize a moving distance of 20-300 mm in height during the working process.

[0009] In the present application, the Z-arm collection module itself has a set height, and the moving distance of 20-300 mm refers to the height adjustment range that the Z-arm collection module can further perform on the basis of its own set height.

[0010] Therefore, the preparation chromatography automatic collector with a Z-arm collection module capable of automatic lifting provided by the present application can adjust the height at any time during use, thereby adapting to collection containers of different heights (i.e., test tubes and sample bottles of different specifications), such as when facing a large number of collected fractions that require a high collection container, the Z-arm collection module adjusts its height to make it basically fit the collection port of the high collection container; when facing a small number of collected fractions that require a small collection container, the Z-arm collection module lowers its height to make it basically fit the collection port of the small collection container. During the working of the preparation chromatography collector, the control device of the preparation chromatography automatic collector will preset the height adjustment value of the Z-arm collection module in advance, so that when different amounts of fractions are collected using collection containers of different heights, the system can work continuously without stopping, thereby greatly improving the system efficiency.

[0011] In some embodiments, the preparation chromatography automatic collector with a Z-arm collection module capable of automatic lifting provided by the present application is provided with a linear guide rail, and a sliding block capable of sliding on the linear guide rail is arranged on the linear guide rail.

[0012] The Z-arm comprises the Z-arm collection module and a Z-arm fixing module, the Z-arm fixing module is fixed on the sliding block, a linear bearing is arranged on the Z-arm fixing module, a collection valve is connected below the Z-arm collection module, a cylindrical rack is fixed above the Z-arm collection module, the cylindrical rack is inserted into the linear bearing, a motor is arranged on the Z-arm fixing module, and the motor gear of the motor is engaged with the cylindrical rack to drive the cylindrical rack to move up and down in the linear bearing to drive the collection valve to realize height adjustment.

[0013] Thus, the motor rotates under the control of the control device of the preparation chromatographic automatic collector, the motor gear drives the cylindrical rack to move up and down in the linear bearing. When the motor rotates forward, the cylindrical rack moves downward, thereby driving the collection valve to move downward; when the motor reverses, the cylindrical rack moves upward, thereby driving the collection valve to move upward, so that the collection valve can move up and down according to the control condition of the system.

[0014] In some embodiments, the preparation chromatographic automatic collector with the Z-arm collection module capable of automatic lifting provided by the present application is provided with a linear guide rail, a sliding block capable of sliding on the linear guide rail is arranged on the linear guide rail, a support frame is mounted on the Y-arm, a spline shaft parallel to the linear guide rail is arranged on the support frame, a motor is mounted on the Y-arm, the motor is connected with the spline shaft to drive the spline shaft to rotate, a spline shaft sleeve is sleeved on the spline shaft, and a gear coaxial with the spline shaft is mounted on the spline shaft sleeve.

[0015] The Z-arm includes the Z-arm collection module and a Z-arm fixed module, the Z-arm fixed module is fixed on the sliding block, a linear bearing is arranged on the Z-arm fixed module, a collection valve is connected below the Z-arm collection module, a cylindrical rack is fixed above the Z-arm collection module, the cylindrical rack is inserted into the linear bearing, and the cylindrical rack is engaged with the gear to move up and down in the linear bearing under the driving of the motor to drive the collection valve to realize height adjustment.

[0016] Thus, the motor rotates under the control of the control device of the preparation chromatographic automatic collector, the motor drives the spline shaft, the shaft sleeve and the gear to rotate, thereby driving the cylindrical rack to move up and down in the linear bearing. When the motor rotates forward, the cylindrical rack moves downward, thereby driving the collection valve to move downward; when the motor reverses, the cylindrical rack moves upward, thereby driving the collection valve to move upward, so that the collection valve can move up and down according to the control condition of the system.

[0017] In some embodiments, the preparation chromatographic automatic collector with the Z-arm collection module capable of automatic lifting provided by the present application is provided with a linear guide rail, a sliding block capable of sliding on the linear guide rail is arranged on the linear guide rail, the Z-arm includes the Z-arm collection module and a Z-arm fixed module, the Z-arm fixed module is fixed on the sliding block, and a linear bearing is arranged on the Z-arm fixed module.

[0018] A collection valve is connected to the lower part of the Z-arm collection module, and the upper part of the Z-arm collection module is inserted into the linear bearing to slide up and down in the linear bearing. A steel cable is connected to the top of the Z-arm collection module, and the steel cable is wound on the drive disk. The drive disk is connected to a motor to drive the drive disk to rotate and drive the steel cable to move, thereby realizing the height adjustment of the collection valve.

[0019] Thus, the motor rotates under the control of the control device of the preparative chromatography automatic collector, thereby driving the drive disc to move, which in turn drives the steel cable, Z-arm collection module, and collection valve to move up and down. When the motor rotates forward, it pushes the steel cable downward, thereby driving the collection valve downward; when the motor rotates in reverse, it pulls the steel cable upward, thereby driving the collection valve upward. In this way, the collection valve can move up and down according to the system's control conditions.

[0020] Because steel cables have a certain strength and flexibility, they can withstand the thrust and tension generated by the motor rotation, driving the Z-arm collection module to move up and down. Other materials with similar properties can also replace steel cables.

[0021] In some implementations, the drive disk and motor can be installed in unused space within the device (preparative chromatography collector) and do not need to move together with the robotic arm (i.e., the X-arm, Y-arm, or Z-arm).

[0022] In some implementations, the Z-arm fixing module is further provided with a limiting plate, which is located above the linear bearing. The steel cable passes through the limiting hole of the limiting plate and is wound around the drive disc, thereby ensuring that the steel cable will not deviate when it is lifted.

[0023] In some implementations, the linear bearing is perpendicular to the operating table surface.

[0024] In some implementations, the motor is communicatively connected to the control device of the preparative chromatographic automatic collector to control the operating state of the motor.

[0025] In some implementations, the operating state of the motor includes the direction of rotation of the motor and the distance that it drives the cylindrical rack or the steel cable to move.

[0026] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a preparative chromatograph, wherein the preparative chromatograph includes an automated preparative chromatographic collector according to the present invention.

[0027] In some embodiments, the present invention provides the use of the preparative chromatography automated collector according to the present invention for continuously collecting samples in collection containers at different heights.

[0028] By adopting the above technical solutions, the present invention has achieved at least the following technical effects: (1) It can be adapted to collection containers of various heights, such as test tubes and sample bottles of different specifications, thereby improving the applicability of the equipment; (2) The height adjustment range can reach 20 to 300 mm, with a large adjustment range and a wide range of collection containers; (3) It can be adapted to collection containers of different heights in continuous working state, so that one device can be used for different scales of preparation, separation and collection needs, with high collection efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the preparative chromatography automated collector with an automatically lifting Z-arm collection module provided by the present invention is shown.

[0030] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the preparative chromatography automated collector with an automatically lifting Z-arm collection module provided by the present invention is shown.

[0031] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the preparative chromatography automated collector with an automatically lifting Z-arm collection module provided by the present invention is shown.

[0032] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0033] 1-Y-arm, 11-linear guide rail, 12-spline shaft, 13-second motor, 14-spline bushing, 15-gear, 2-Z-arm, 21-Z-arm collection module, 211-collection valve, 212-cylindrical rack, 213-steel cable, 214-drive disc, 22-Z-arm fixing module, 221-linear bearing, 222-motor, 223-limiting plate, 3-third motor. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0035] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the system or component referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., used to define components are merely for the convenience of distinguishing the aforementioned components. Unless otherwise stated, these terms have no special meaning and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0036] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0037] The present invention provides an automated preparative chromatography collector with an automatically height-adjustable Z-arm collection module, comprising: an operating platform, an X-arm, a Y-arm, and a Z-arm. The Z-arm collection module can move its height by 20–300 mm during operation. Therefore, the automated preparative chromatography collector can adjust its height at any time during use to accommodate collection containers of different heights (i.e., test tubes and sample vials of different sizes). For example, when collecting a large amount of fraction requiring a taller collection container, the Z-arm collection module is raised to approximately align with the collection port of the taller container; when collecting a small amount of fraction requiring a smaller collection container, the Z-arm collection module is lowered to approximately align with the collection port of the smaller container. During operation, the control device of the automated preparative chromatography collector pre-sets the height adjustment value of the Z-arm collection module. This allows for continuous operation without stopping the system when collecting different amounts of fraction using collection containers of different heights, significantly improving system efficiency.

[0038] Specifically, such as Figure 1As shown in the figure, as a non-limiting embodiment, the Y-arm 1 of the preparative chromatography automatic collector with an automatically lifting Z-arm collection module provided by the present invention is provided with a linear guide rail 11, and a slider (not labeled in the figure) that can slide on the linear guide rail 11 is provided. The Z-arm 2 includes a Z-arm collection module 21 and a Z-arm fixing module 22. The Z-arm fixing module 22 is fixed on the slider. The Z-arm fixing module 22 is provided with a linear bearing 221 perpendicular to the operating table surface and a motor 222. A collection valve 211 is connected to the lower part of the Z-arm collection module 21. A cylindrical rack 212 is fixed to the upper part of the Z-arm collection module 21. The cylindrical rack 212 is inserted into the linear bearing 221. The motor gear of the motor 222 meshes with the cylindrical rack 212, thereby driving the cylindrical rack 212 to move up and down in the linear bearing 221, thereby driving the collection valve 211 to achieve height adjustment.

[0039] As another non-limiting implementation, such as Figure 2 As shown, the Y-arm 1 of the preparative chromatography automatic collector with an automatically lifting Z-arm collection module provided by the present invention is provided with a linear guide rail 11. A slider (not labeled in the figure) that can slide on the linear guide rail 11 is provided. A support frame (not labeled in the figure) is installed on the Y-arm 1. A spline shaft 12 parallel to the linear guide rail 11 is provided on the support frame. A second motor 13 is installed on the Y-arm 1. The second motor 13 is connected to the spline shaft 12, thereby driving the spline shaft 12 to rotate. A spline bushing 14 is sleeved on the spline shaft 12. A gear 15 coaxial with the spline shaft 12 is installed on the spline bushing 14. Z-arm 2 includes Z-arm collecting module 21 and Z-arm fixing module 22. Z-arm fixing module 22 is fixed on slider. Z-arm fixing module 22 is provided with linear bearing 221 perpendicular to the operating table surface. A collecting valve 211 is connected to the lower part of Z-arm collecting module 21. A cylindrical rack 212 is fixed above Z-arm collecting module 21. The cylindrical rack 212 is inserted into the linear bearing 221 and meshes with the gear, so that it can move up and down in the linear bearing 221 under the drive of the second motor 13, thereby driving the collecting valve 211 to achieve height adjustment.

[0040] As another non-limiting implementation, such as Figure 3As shown, the Y-arm 1 of the preparative chromatography automatic collector with an automatically lifting Z-arm collection module provided by the present invention is provided with a linear guide rail 11, and a slider (not labeled in the figure) that can slide on the linear guide rail 11 is provided. The Z-arm 2 includes a Z-arm collection module 21 and a Z-arm fixing module 22. The Z-arm fixing module 22 is fixed on the slider. The Z-arm fixing module 22 is provided with a linear bearing 221 perpendicular to the operating table surface. A collection valve 211 is connected to the lower part of the Z-arm collection module 21. The upper part of the Z-arm collection module 21 is inserted into the linear bearing 221, so that it can slide up and down in the linear bearing 221. A steel cable 213 is connected to the top of the Z-arm collection module 21. The steel cable 213 is wound on the drive disk 214. The drive disk 214 is connected to the third motor 3, so that the drive disk 214 can be driven to rotate and drive the steel cable 213 to move, thereby realizing the height adjustment of the collection valve 211.

[0041] In this non-limiting embodiment, such as Figure 3 As shown, the Z-arm fixing module 22 is also equipped with a limiting plate 223. The limiting plate 223 is located above the linear bearing 221. The steel cable 213 passes through the limiting hole of the limiting plate 223 and is wrapped around the drive disc 214, thereby ensuring that the steel cable 213 will not deviate when it is lifted.

[0042] Example 1

[0043] Taking the preparative chromatographic automatic collector of the first embodiment of the present invention as an example, 50 samples were separated and collected. Among them, 30 samples were small-volume samples, 12 samples were medium-volume samples, and 8 samples were large-volume samples. During separation and collection, samples 1 to 30 were small-volume samples, using 12ml small test tubes with a height of 150mm; samples 31 to 42 were medium-volume samples, using 50ml medium-volume test tubes with a height of 200mm; and samples 43 to 50 were large-volume samples, using 200ml large test tubes with a height of 300mm. These samples were delivered all at once, so they could be divided into three categories and separated in a unified manner.

[0044] First, based on the sample conditions, place a test tube rack containing test tubes of different sizes in the corresponding position of the automatic collector. Then, based on the height of the test tubes on the rack, set the collection height of the collection valve to 150mm in the preparative chromatograph control software. After collecting 30 small samples, adjust the collection height of the collection valve to 200mm and collect 12 medium samples. Finally, adjust the collection height of the collection valve to 300mm and collect 8 large samples. Then, the preparative chromatograph is started, and the preparative chromatograph automatic collector begins collection. When the preparative chromatograph automatic collector has collected 30 small samples, the control software outputs a signal to the control device, which controls the Z-axis motor to drive the Z-arm collection module from the small test tube position (collection valve height 150mm) to the medium test tube position (collection valve height 200mm). When the preparative chromatograph automatic collector has collected 12 medium samples, the control software outputs a signal to the control device, which controls the Z-axis motor to drive the Z-arm collection module from the medium test tube position (collection valve height 200mm) to the large test tube position (collection valve height 300mm). This achieves automatic adjustment of the collection valve height within a large range during continuous system operation.

[0045] Using the preparative chromatography automatic collector provided by this invention, the separation and collection of the above 50 samples can be completed without stopping for adjustment, enabling continuous operation. Based on actual conditions, the processing time for a small sample is approximately 15 minutes, for a medium sample approximately 20 minutes, and for a large sample approximately 25 minutes. The total time to complete the separation and collection of the above 50 samples is approximately 16 hours. Starting at 9:00 AM, the system switches from small test tubes to medium test tubes around 4:30 PM and from medium test tubes to large test tubes around 8:30 PM. Without human intervention, the separation and collection of 50 samples can be automatically completed within one day.

[0046] Example 2

[0047] Taking the preparative chromatographic automatic collector of the second embodiment of the present invention as an example, 50 samples were separated and collected. Among them, 30 samples were small-volume samples, 12 samples were medium-volume samples, and 8 samples were large-volume samples. During separation and collection, samples 1 to 30 were small-volume samples, using 12ml small test tubes with a height of 150mm; samples 31 to 42 were medium-volume samples, using 50ml medium-volume test tubes with a height of 200mm; and samples 43 to 50 were large-volume samples, using 200ml large test tubes with a height of 300mm. These samples were delivered all at once, so they could be divided into three categories and separated in a unified manner.

[0048] First, based on the sample conditions, place a test tube rack containing test tubes of different sizes in the corresponding position of the automatic collector. Then, based on the height of the test tubes on the rack, set the collection height of the collection valve to 150mm in the preparative chromatography collector control software. After completing the collection of 30 small samples, adjust the collection height of the collection valve to 200mm and complete the collection of 12 medium samples. Finally, adjust the collection height of the collection valve to 300mm and complete the collection of 8 large samples. Then, the preparative chromatograph is started, and the preparative chromatograph automatic collector begins collection. When the preparative chromatograph automatic collector has collected 30 small samples, the control software outputs a signal to the control device, which controls the Z-axis motor to drive the Z-arm collection module from the small test tube position (collection valve height 150mm) to the medium test tube position (collection valve height 200mm). When the preparative chromatograph automatic collector has collected 12 medium samples, the control software outputs a signal to the control device, which controls the Z-axis motor to drive the Z-arm collection module from the medium test tube position (collection valve height 200mm) to the large test tube position (collection valve height 300mm). This achieves automatic adjustment of the collection valve height within a large range during continuous operation of the system.

[0049] Using the preparative chromatography automatic collector provided by this invention, the separation and collection of the above 50 samples can be completed without stopping for adjustment, enabling continuous operation. Based on actual conditions, the processing time for a small sample is approximately 15 minutes, for a medium sample approximately 20 minutes, and for a large sample approximately 25 minutes. The total time to complete the separation and collection of the above 50 samples is approximately 16 hours. Starting at 9:00 AM, the system switches from small test tubes to medium test tubes around 4:30 PM and from medium test tubes to large test tubes around 8:30 PM. Without human intervention, the separation and collection of 50 samples can be automatically completed within one day.

[0050] Example 3

[0051] Taking the preparative chromatographic automatic collector of the third embodiment of the present invention as an example, 50 samples were separated and collected. Among them, 30 samples were small-volume samples, 12 samples were medium-volume samples, and 8 samples were large-volume samples. During separation and collection, samples 1 to 30 were small-volume samples, using 12ml small test tubes with a height of 150mm; samples 31 to 42 were medium-volume samples, using 50ml medium-volume test tubes with a height of 200mm; and samples 43 to 50 were large-volume samples, using 200ml large test tubes with a height of 300mm. These samples were delivered all at once, so they could be divided into three categories and separated in a unified manner.

[0052] First, based on the sample conditions, place a test tube rack containing test tubes of different sizes in the corresponding position of the automatic collector. Then, based on the height of the test tubes on the rack, set the collection height of the collection valve to 150mm in the preparative chromatography collector control software. After completing the collection of 30 small samples, adjust the collection height of the collection valve to 200mm and complete the collection of 12 medium samples. Finally, adjust the collection height of the collection valve to 300mm and complete the collection of 8 large samples. Then, the preparative chromatograph is started, and the preparative chromatograph automatic collector begins collection. When the preparative chromatograph automatic collector has collected 30 small samples, the control software outputs a signal to the control device, controlling the drive disc to rotate and move the steel cable to adjust the height of the collection valve, moving it from the small test tube position (collection valve height 150mm) to the medium test tube position (collection valve height 200mm). When the preparative chromatograph automatic collector has collected 12 medium samples, the control software outputs a signal to the control device, controlling the drive disc to rotate and move the steel cable to adjust the height of the collection valve, moving it from the medium test tube position (collection valve height 200mm) to the large test tube position (collection valve height 300mm). This achieves automatic adjustment of the collection valve height within a large range during continuous system operation.

[0053] Using the preparative chromatography automatic collector provided by this invention, the separation and collection of the above 50 samples can be completed without stopping for adjustment, enabling continuous operation. Based on actual conditions, the processing time for a small sample is approximately 15 minutes, for a medium sample approximately 20 minutes, and for a large sample approximately 25 minutes. The total time to complete the separation and collection of the above 50 samples is approximately 16 hours. Starting at 9:00 AM, the system switches from small test tubes to medium test tubes around 4:30 PM and from medium test tubes to large test tubes around 8:30 PM. Without human intervention, the separation and collection of 50 samples can be automatically completed within one day.

[0054] Comparative Example 1

[0055] Using a commercially available preparative chromatography collector that does not automatically adjust the collection height, 50 samples, identical to those in Example 1, were separated and collected. After separating and collecting 30 small samples, the system needed to be stopped, and the height of the Z-arm collection module needed to be manually adjusted before proceeding with the separation and collection of medium-sized samples. This process, including system shutdown, preparation, adjustment, and subsequent restart and rebalancing, took at least 30 minutes. Furthermore, because the collection and injection systems shared a single robotic arm, the height of the collection module was limited. Although the height of the collection module could be manually adjusted, the adjustment range was limited, allowing only small and medium-sized test tubes to be used, not large test tubes. Therefore, after manually adjusting the height to separate medium-weight samples, large-scale sample separation and collection could not be performed. A separate preparative chromatography instrument capable of using large test tubes was required to complete this task.

[0056] Therefore, to complete the separation of 50 samples as in the example, two different types of preparative chromatography instruments are required, which requires more investment in fixed assets. Furthermore, the efficiency is much lower because the height of the collection module needs to be manually adjusted, and operators also need to be on duty at night.

[0057] As can be seen from Examples 1-3 and Comparative Example 1, the preparative chromatography automatic collector provided by the present invention uses an independent robotic arm system for the collection module. When facing the usage requirements of collection containers of different heights, no shutdown operation or manual intervention is required. The height of the Z-arm collection module can be automatically adjusted over a wide range, which greatly improves the separation and collection efficiency, reduces the labor intensity of operators, and reduces the investment in fixed assets.

[0058] Example 4

[0059] Using the preparative chromatographic automatic collector of the first embodiment of the present invention, 75 samples were separated and collected, of which 47 were small-volume samples and 28 were medium-volume samples. These samples are time-sensitive and need to be processed as soon as possible after receipt. However, the samples were not sent all at once, but were sent for separation in multiple batches, with medium-volume and small-volume samples interspersed. Specifically, samples 1 to 15 were small-volume samples, using 12ml small test tubes with a height of 150mm; samples 16 to 30 were medium-volume samples, using 50ml medium-volume test tubes with a height of 200mm; samples 31 to 62 were again small-volume samples, using small test tubes with a height of 150mm; and finally, samples 63 to 75 were medium-volume samples, using medium-volume test tubes with a height of 200mm.

[0060] First, based on the height of the test tubes on the automatic collector's test tube rack, the collection height adjustment mode of the collection valve is set in the preparative chromatograph control software. When the preparative chromatograph automatic collector completes the collection of a certain amount of sample, the control software outputs a signal to the control device, which controls the Z-axis motor to drive the Z-arm collection module from the position of one type of test tube to the collection position of another type of test tube, thereby realizing the automatic adjustment of the collection valve height.

[0061] Using the preparative chromatography automatic collector provided by this invention, the separation and collection of the above 75 samples can be completed without stopping for adjustments, enabling continuous operation. Based on actual conditions, the processing time for a small sample is approximately 15 minutes, and for a medium-sized sample, it is approximately 20 minutes. The total time for completing the collection of the above 75 samples is approximately 21 hours. Starting at 9:00 AM, the system switches from small to medium-sized test tubes at approximately 12:45 PM, from medium-sized to small test tubes at 5:45 PM, and then back to medium-sized test tubes at 1:45 AM the next day. This avoids at least three stops for adjusting the height of the collection module, saving a significant amount of time. The system can automatically complete the separation and collection of 75 samples within one day without human intervention, greatly improving work efficiency and reducing the workload of operators.

[0062] Example 5

[0063] Using the preparative chromatographic automatic collector of the second embodiment of the present invention, 75 samples were separated and collected, of which 47 were small-volume samples and 28 were medium-volume samples. These samples are time-sensitive and need to be processed as soon as possible after receipt. However, the samples were not sent all at once, but were sent for separation in multiple batches, with medium-volume and small-volume samples interspersed. Specifically, samples 1 to 15 were small-volume samples, using 12ml small test tubes with a height of 150mm; samples 16 to 30 were medium-volume samples, using 50ml medium-volume test tubes with a height of 200mm; samples 31 to 62 were again small-volume samples, using small test tubes with a height of 150mm; and finally, samples 63 to 75 were medium-volume samples, using medium-volume test tubes with a height of 200mm.

[0064] First, based on the height of the test tubes on the automatic collector's test tube rack, the collection height adjustment mode of the collection valve is set in the preparative chromatograph control software. When the preparative chromatograph automatic collector completes the collection of a certain amount of sample, the control software outputs a signal to the control device, which controls the Z-axis motor to drive the Z-arm collection module from the position of one type of test tube to the collection position of another type of test tube, thereby realizing the automatic adjustment of the collection valve height.

[0065] Using the preparative chromatography automatic collector provided by this invention, the separation and collection of the above 75 samples can be completed without stopping for adjustments, enabling continuous operation. Based on actual conditions, the processing time for a small sample is approximately 15 minutes, and for a medium-sized sample, it is approximately 20 minutes. The total time for completing the collection of the above 75 samples is approximately 21 hours. Starting at 9:00 AM, the system switches from small to medium-sized test tubes at approximately 12:45 PM, from medium-sized to small test tubes at 5:45 PM, and then back to medium-sized test tubes at 1:45 AM the next day. This avoids at least three stops for adjusting the height of the collection module, saving a significant amount of time. The system can automatically complete the separation and collection of 75 samples within one day without human intervention, greatly improving work efficiency and reducing the workload of operators.

[0066] Example 6

[0067] Using the preparative chromatographic automatic collector of the third embodiment of the present invention, 75 samples were separated and collected, of which 47 were small-volume samples and 28 were medium-volume samples. These samples are time-sensitive and need to be processed as soon as possible after receipt. However, the samples were not sent all at once, but were sent for separation in multiple batches, with medium-volume and small-volume samples interspersed. Specifically, samples 1 to 15 were small-volume samples, using 12ml small test tubes with a height of 150mm; samples 16 to 30 were medium-volume samples, using 50ml medium-volume test tubes with a height of 200mm; samples 31 to 62 were again small-volume samples, using small test tubes with a height of 150mm; and finally, samples 63 to 75 were medium-volume samples, using medium-volume test tubes with a height of 200mm.

[0068] First, based on the height of the test tubes on the automatic collector's test tube rack, the collection height adjustment mode of the collection valve is set in the preparative chromatograph control software. When the preparative chromatograph automatic collector completes the collection of a certain amount of sample, the control software outputs a signal to the control device, which controls the drive disc to rotate and moves the steel cable to adjust the height of the collection valve, so that it moves from the position of one type of test tube to the collection position of another type of test tube, thereby realizing the automatic adjustment of the height of the collection valve.

[0069] Using the preparative chromatography automatic collector provided by this invention, the separation and collection of the above 75 samples can be completed without stopping for adjustments, enabling continuous operation. Based on actual conditions, the processing time for a small sample is approximately 15 minutes, and for a medium-sized sample, it is approximately 20 minutes. The total time for completing the collection of the above 75 samples is approximately 21 hours. Starting at 9:00 AM, the system switches from small to medium-sized test tubes at approximately 12:45 PM, from medium-sized to small test tubes at 5:45 PM, and then back to medium-sized test tubes at 1:45 AM the next day. This avoids at least three stops for adjusting the height of the collection module, saving a significant amount of time. The system can automatically complete the separation and collection of 75 samples within one day without human intervention, greatly improving work efficiency and reducing the workload of operators.

[0070] Comparative Example 2

[0071] Using a preparative chromatography collector with non-automatically adjustable collection height, 75 samples identical to those in Example 4 were separated and collected. After separating and collecting 15 small samples, 15 medium samples, and 32 small samples, the machine needed to be stopped and the height of the Z-arm collection module manually adjusted before the next sample separation and collection could proceed. Including the time for each stop, preparation, adjustment, and subsequent restart for rebalancing, this process takes at least 30 minutes. Three stops would add another 1.5 hours to the time required. Separating 75 samples of the above specifications would take approximately 22.5 hours, necessitating the arrangement of operators on night shifts.

[0072] As can be seen from Examples 4-6 and Comparative Example 2, the preparative chromatography automatic collector provided by the present invention can automatically adjust the height of the Z-arm collection module without any shutdown operation or manual intervention when facing the use requirements of collection containers of different heights. This greatly improves the separation and collection efficiency and significantly reduces the workload of operators. It also eliminates the need for operators to stay by the instrument or work night shifts, saving a lot of time to do other work and reducing labor costs.

[0073] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automated preparative chromatographic collector, characterized in that, The preparative chromatography automatic collector has an automatically height-adjustable Z-arm collection module. The preparative chromatography automatic collector includes an operating table, an X-arm, a Y-arm, and a Z-arm. The height of the Z-arm collection module can move 20 to 300 mm during operation.

2. The preparative chromatographic automatic collector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The Y-arm is provided with a linear guide rail, and a slider that can slide on the linear guide rail is provided on the linear guide rail; The Z-arm includes a Z-arm collecting module and a Z-arm fixing module. The Z-arm fixing module is fixed to the slider and is equipped with a linear bearing and a motor. A collecting valve is connected to the lower part of the Z-arm collecting module, and a cylindrical rack is fixed to the upper part of the Z-arm collecting module. The cylindrical rack is inserted into the linear bearing, and the motor gear of the motor meshes with the cylindrical rack to drive the cylindrical rack to move up and down in the linear bearing to drive the collecting valve to achieve height adjustment.

3. The preparative chromatographic automatic collector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The Y-arm is provided with a linear guide rail, and a slider that can slide on the linear guide rail is provided on the linear guide rail. A support frame is installed on the Y-arm, and a spline shaft parallel to the linear guide rail is provided on the support frame. A motor is installed on the Y-arm, and the motor is connected to the spline shaft to drive the spline shaft to rotate. A spline shaft sleeve is fitted on the spline shaft, and a gear coaxial with the spline shaft is installed on the spline shaft sleeve. The Z-arm includes a Z-arm collecting module and a Z-arm fixing module. The Z-arm fixing module is fixed to the slider and is equipped with a linear bearing. A collecting valve is connected to the lower part of the Z-arm collecting module. A cylindrical rack is fixed to the upper part of the Z-arm collecting module. The cylindrical rack is inserted into the linear bearing and meshes with the gear to move up and down in the linear bearing under the drive of the motor, thereby driving the collecting valve to achieve height adjustment.

4. The preparative chromatographic automatic collector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The Y-arm is provided with a linear guide rail, and a slider that can slide on the linear guide rail is provided on the linear guide rail. The Z-arm includes a Z-arm collecting module and a Z-arm fixing module. The Z-arm fixing module is fixed on the slider and is provided with a linear bearing. A collection valve is connected to the lower part of the Z-arm collection module, and the upper part of the Z-arm collection module is inserted into the linear bearing to slide up and down in the linear bearing. A steel cable is connected to the top of the Z-arm collection module, and the steel cable is wound on the drive disk. The drive disk is connected to a motor to drive the drive disk to rotate and drive the steel cable to move, thereby realizing the height adjustment of the collection valve.

5. The preparative chromatographic automatic collector according to claim 4, characterized in that, The Z-arm fixing module is also provided with a limiting plate, which is located above the linear bearing. The steel cable passes through the limiting hole of the limiting plate and is wound around the drive disc.

6. The preparative chromatographic automatic collector according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The linear bearing is perpendicular to the operating table surface.

7. The preparative chromatographic automatic collector according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The motor is communicatively connected to the control device of the preparative chromatographic automatic collector to control the working state of the motor.

8. The preparative chromatographic automatic collector according to claim 7, characterized in that, The operating state of the motor includes the direction of rotation of the motor and the distance that it drives the cylindrical rack or the steel cable to move.

9. A preparative chromatograph, wherein the preparative chromatograph comprises an automated preparative chromatographic collector according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The preparative chromatography automatic collector according to any one of claims 1 to 8 is used for continuously collecting samples in collection containers at different heights.

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