Method for calculating cost performance in liquid chromatograph, program, and analyzer

Abstract

To provide information on cost performance of cleaning liquid in liquid chromatograph.SOLUTION: A method for calculating cost performance in liquid chromatograph includes: a step of calculating a third period that is reduced in a second period when second cleaning liquid is used in place of first cleaning liquid, on the basis of analysis time required for single analysis, cleaning time required for single cleaning, the number of times of calibration per batch, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in a first period, and a reanalysis ratio at which reanalysis is required for checking whether carry-over occurs, when the first cleaning liquid is used; and a step of calculating a second benefit obtained in the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used in place of the first cleaning liquid, on the basis of the third period, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of patches analyzed in the first period, and a first benefit obtained in single analysis.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method, program, and analysis device for calculating cost performance in a liquid chromatograph, and more particularly to a technique for calculating cost performance when a specified cleaning liquid is used. [Background technology]

[0002] In order to perform accurate analysis in a liquid chromatograph, it is important to reduce carry-over, which is the residual amount of a sample used in a previous analysis remaining in the system.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for reducing carry-over by washing the inside of a flow path with a washing solution having a different composition from the separation solution used to separate the sample, thereby efficiently reducing carry-over and shortening the time required to reduce carry-over. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2023-44723 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose a method for estimating the expected profit from the reduction in carry-over when the cleaning solution is purchased and used for a certain period of time. Therefore, it is not easy for users to decide whether to introduce a cleaning solution. In view of the above-mentioned circumstances, a method for providing information on the cost performance of cleaning solutions for liquid chromatographs has been desired. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A method for calculating cost performance of a liquid chromatograph according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes the steps of: calculating a third period shortened during a second period when a second cleaning liquid is used instead of a first cleaning liquid in a liquid chromatograph capable of batch analysis, based on the analysis time required for one analysis when a first cleaning liquid is used, the cleaning time required for one cleaning of the liquid chromatograph, the number of calibrations per batch, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in a first period, and a reanalysis rate at which reanalysis is required to confirm whether carry-over has occurred; and calculating a second profit obtained during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid, based on the third period, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in the first period, and a first profit obtained per analysis.

[0007] An analysis device according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a processor and a memory. The processor calculates a third period that is shortened during a second period when a second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid based on an analysis time required for one analysis in a liquid chromatograph capable of batch analysis, a cleaning time required for one cleaning of the liquid chromatograph, the number of calibrations per batch, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in a first period, and a reanalysis rate at which reanalysis is required to confirm whether carryover has occurred, when a first cleaning liquid is used in the liquid chromatograph capable of batch analysis. The processor further calculates a second profit that is obtained during a second period when a second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid based on the third period, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in the first period, and a first profit obtained per analysis. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the calculation method of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide information regarding the cost performance of cleaning solutions for liquid chromatographs. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a liquid chromatograph according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display screen relating to calculation of cost performance according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] 10 is a flowchart showing a calculation process of cost performance according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display screen relating to calculation of cost performance according to a modified example. [Diagram 5] 13 is a flowchart showing a calculation process of cost performance in a liquid chromatograph according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and their description will not be repeated.

[0011] [1. Liquid chromatograph configuration] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a liquid chromatograph 100 according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the liquid chromatograph 100 is a multiplex LC-MS including a plurality of analysis units 3 for performing analyses of a plurality of samples simultaneously in parallel. The liquid chromatograph 100 can perform analyses of a plurality of samples in parallel using the plurality of analysis units 3. Therefore, the liquid chromatograph 100 is suitable for processing a plurality of specimens (samples) collectively under the same analysis conditions in, for example, a clinical laboratory of a hospital, a testing outsourcing company, a pharmaceutical company, a research institute, etc. In another embodiment, the liquid chromatograph 100 may be a liquid chromatograph including only one analysis unit.

[0012] The liquid chromatograph 100 includes an analysis device 99 and a control device 9. The analysis device 99 includes a reagent supply unit 1Z, an analysis unit 3, a sampling flow path 51, selection valves 53 and 63, a sample container 60, a metering pump 61, and a low-pressure valve 62.

[0013] The base end of the sampling flow path 51 is connected to a common port of a selection valve 53. The sampling flow path 51 has a sampling needle 511 at its tip. The position of the needle 511 is moved three-dimensionally by a moving mechanism (not shown). The base end of the sampling flow path 51 is fluidly connected to a metering pump 61 via the selection valve 53, so that a sample contained in a sample container 60 arranged at a predetermined position can be sucked in through the needle 511 and held. In addition, by connecting the needle 511 to the injection port 31 of the analysis unit 3, the sampling flow path 51 can be fluidly connected to the analysis flow path 33 of the analysis unit 3.

[0014] The metering pump 61 is used to aspirate a predetermined amount of sample through the needle 511. The metering pump 61 is, for example, a syringe pump.

[0015] The configuration of the multiple analysis units 3 may be the same or different. In this embodiment, the multiple analysis units 3 are described as having a common configuration. In the example of Fig. 1, each analysis unit 3 includes a reagent supply unit 1A, an injection port 31, a high-pressure valve 32, an analysis flow path 33, and a flow path 34.

[0016] The reagent supply unit 1A supplies a separation liquid for sample separation to the analysis flow path 33. The separation liquid is also called a "mobile phase" by those skilled in the art. The reagent supply unit 1A also supplies a washing liquid used for washing the analysis flow path 33 and the like.

[0017] 1, the reagent supply unit 1A includes washing liquid containers 10A and 11A, a separation liquid container 12A, washing pumps 13A and 14A, a separation liquid pump 15A, a mixing valve 16A, a switching valve 17A, and a reagent flow path 18A. The configuration of the reagent supply units 1A in each analysis unit 3 may be the same or different from each other.

[0018] In one embodiment, the reagent supply unit 1A includes multiple cleaning fluid containers 10A, 11A, each containing a solution of a different composition. In FIG. 1, the reagent supply unit 1A is illustrated as including two cleaning fluid containers, but it should be understood that the reagent supply unit 1A may include three or more cleaning fluid containers. In another embodiment, the multiple cleaning fluid containers contain solutions of the same composition. In yet another embodiment, the reagent supply unit 1A includes one cleaning fluid container.

[0019] The separation liquid container 12A contains a separation liquid. The reagent supply unit 1A may be configured to include a plurality of separation liquid containers, similar to the washing liquid containers.

[0020] The cleaning pumps 13A and 14A supply the cleaning liquids contained in the cleaning liquid containers 10A and 11A, respectively, to the mixing valve 16A.

[0021] The mixing valve 16A mixes the cleaning liquids supplied from two or more cleaning liquid containers at a predetermined mixing ratio. In the example of FIG. 1, the mixing valve 16A mixes the cleaning liquids contained in the cleaning liquid containers 10A and 11A at a predetermined mixing ratio and supplies the mixture to the switching valve 17A. The separation liquid pump 15A supplies the separation liquid contained in the separation liquid container 12A to the switching valve 17A. The mixing ratio includes 100:0. The mixing ratio may be set to be constant during the separation of the sample, or may be set to change over time during the separation. The switching valve 17A connects either the separation liquid pump 15A or the mixing valve 16A to the high-pressure valve 32 via the reagent flow path 18A. As a result, the separation liquid or the cleaning liquid is supplied to the high-pressure valve 32 via the reagent flow path 18A.

[0022] In one embodiment, the high-pressure valve 32 is a two-position valve that has six ports on the same circumference and switches the connection state between adjacent ports. One port of the high-pressure valve 32 is connected to the injection port 31. One of the ports adjacent to the port connected to the injection port 31 leads to a drain, and the other is connected to the upstream end of the analysis flow channel 33. The port adjacent to the port to which the upstream end of the analysis flow channel 33 is connected, and the port located opposite the port connected to the injection port 31, is connected to the reagent flow channel 18A. The remaining two ports of the high-pressure valve 32 are connected to the flow channels 34 and 64, respectively. The flow channel 34 is connected to one selection port of the selection valve 53, and the flow channel 64 is connected to one selection port of the selection valve 63.

[0023] The analysis flow path 33 is a flow path for separating and analyzing a sample. The analysis flow path 33 has a column 331 for separating components in the sample. The components separated in the column 331 are detected by a mass spectrometer (not shown).

[0024] The common port of the selection valve 63 is connected to the common port of the low pressure valve 62. The selection port of the low pressure valve 62 is connected to the metering pump 61 and the reagent flow path 18Z of the reagent supply unit 1Z.

[0025] The reagent supply unit 1Z supplies a cleaning liquid used for cleaning the sampling flow path 51 etc. In the example of Fig. 2, the reagent supply unit 1Z includes cleaning liquid containers 10Z and 11Z, cleaning pumps 13Z and 14Z, a mixing valve 16Z, and a reagent flow path 18Z.

[0026] In one embodiment, the configurations of the cleaning liquid containers 10Z, 11Z, the cleaning pumps 13Z, 14Z, the mixing valve 16Z, and the reagent flow path 18Z in the reagent supply unit 1Z are the same as the configurations of the cleaning liquid containers 10A, 11A, the cleaning pumps 13A, 14A, the mixing valve 16A, and the reagent flow path 18A. In another embodiment, at least a part of the configurations of the cleaning liquid containers 10Z, 11Z, the cleaning pumps 13Z, 14Z, the mixing valve 16Z, and the reagent flow path 18Z in the reagent supply unit 1Z may be configured differently from the corresponding configurations of the cleaning liquid containers 10A, 11A, the cleaning pumps 13A, 14A, the mixing valve 16A, and the reagent flow path 18A.

[0027] In one embodiment, the control device 9 is a computer. The control device 9 includes a processor 91, a memory 92, a display unit 94, and an input unit 93.

[0028] The processor 91 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 91 loads a program stored in the memory 92 into a RAM or the like and executes the program.

[0029] The memory 92 includes, for example, a Read Only Memory (ROM), a Random Access Memory (RAM), and a non-volatile memory. The memory 92 may include a hard disk device instead of or in addition to the non-volatile memory. The memory includes a program that, when executed by the control device 9, causes the control device 9 to implement the method for calculating the cost performance of a liquid chromatograph according to this embodiment.

[0030] The input unit 93 is a unit for inputting user instructions to the control device 9. For example, the input unit 93 includes a keyboard and a pointing device such as a mouse.

[0031] The display unit 94 includes a liquid crystal display, etc. The control device 9 generates display data according to a program in which processing procedures are written, and displays the data on the display unit 94. This control is not limited to processing by software, and can also be processed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuitry).

[0032] The control device 9 controls the entire liquid chromatograph 100. In particular, the control device 9 controls each valve of the above-mentioned analysis device 99 to switch the flow path configuration, thereby supplying the cleaning solution supplied from the reagent supply units 1A, 1Z to the sampling flow path 51, the analysis flow path 33, etc., for cleaning. The control device 9 also implements the calculation method of cost performance according to the embodiment. The control device 9 may include multiple computers. For example, the control device 9 may include a control computer that controls the analysis device 99 and an analysis computer that implements the calculation method of cost performance according to the embodiment.

[0033] [2. Comparison with conventional liquid chromatography] A conventional method for eliminating carryover in liquid chromatography is to flush away remaining sample by running a separation liquid through the analyzer after the analysis of the sample. However, to sufficiently eliminate carryover using this method, it is necessary to run the separation liquid for a long time. For example, in a blank state where no sample is injected, the separation liquid is run in the same manner as when separating samples. In this case, the cleaning time is approximately the same as the time required for sample separation, so the time required to complete the analysis of a predetermined number of samples (hereinafter referred to as the "analysis time") is approximately twice the time required to actually analyze the predetermined number of samples. Note that the above "time required to actually analyze the predetermined number of samples" refers to the "time required to separate the predetermined number of samples in column 331 and perform mass analysis."

[0034] In addition, even if the cleaning method of flowing the separation liquid is performed, there are cases where carry-over is not eliminated. Therefore, even if an abnormal value is detected by analyzing a sample, it is not clear whether it is due to carry-over or whether the sample actually shows an abnormal value. Therefore, when using the conventional cleaning method of flowing the separation liquid, it is necessary to reanalyze samples that show abnormal values ​​as a result of analysis to check whether there is an effect of carry-over. Therefore, when the cleaning method of flowing the separation liquid is used, the time required for analysis becomes even longer due to the reanalysis. For example, if reanalysis is required for about 10% of the samples, 1.1 times the time required to perform the analysis of a predetermined number of samples without reanalysis is required to complete the analysis of the predetermined number of samples. Note that the reanalysis is also called "re-run" or "re-injection" by those skilled in the art.

[0035] In response to the above problems, high-performance cleaning solutions that can efficiently reduce carry-over have been developed in recent years. The high-performance cleaning solutions do not cause carry-over when they are run through an analyzer for a short period of time. The high-performance cleaning solutions are, for example, organic solvents suitable for cleaning analyzers. In addition, the high-performance cleaning solutions are usually used in combination with multiple types of cleaning solutions. The high-performance cleaning solutions tend to be more expensive than separation solutions.

[0036] Therefore, although the introduction of the high-performance cleaning solution is attractive for the user because it shortens the time required for analysis, it is difficult for the user to judge whether the high-performance cleaning solution is worth the cost. Even if the user can take the time to calculate the cost of using the multiple types of cleaning solutions for one cleaning, it is difficult for the user to calculate the cost of using the combination of the multiple types of cleaning solutions over a certain period of time.

[0037] [3. Calculation method and display screen of cost performance according to the embodiment] Therefore, in the liquid chromatograph 100 and the method for calculating cost performance according to this embodiment, the user can input basic numerical values ​​related to analysis, thereby providing information on the cost performance when a high-performance cleaning liquid is used.

[0038] 2 is a diagram showing a display screen relating to calculation of cost performance according to the embodiment. The display screen includes an image Im1. The image Im1 includes an image Im10 showing the title of the image Im1, an image Im11 where the user inputs values ​​relating to the analysis, and an image Im12 showing information relating to the cost performance of the cleaning liquid calculated by the control device 9. Specifically, the control device 9 calculates and displays the time saved when the high-performance second cleaning liquid is used instead of the conventional first cleaning liquid in the analysis of a predetermined number of samples, and the profit corresponding to the saved time.

[0039] In other words, the control device 9 calculates the time difference between the time required to analyze a predetermined number of samples under first conditions using a first cleaning liquid and the time required to analyze a predetermined number of samples under second conditions using a second cleaning liquid in the liquid chromatograph. The control device 9 also calculates the profit to be obtained by analyzing the samples under the second conditions by the time difference.

[0040] The time required to wash the liquid chromatograph 100 with the second cleaning liquid is shorter than the time required to wash the liquid chromatograph 100 with the first cleaning liquid. In addition, the second cleaning liquid has a lower possibility of carryover in the liquid chromatograph 100 than the first cleaning liquid.

[0041] In one embodiment, the time required to wash the liquid chromatograph 100 with the second cleaning liquid is much shorter than the time required to wash the liquid chromatograph 100 with the first cleaning liquid. Therefore, the time required to wash the liquid chromatograph 100 with the second cleaning liquid can be considered to be zero. In addition, the second cleaning liquid is a cleaning liquid that does not cause carry-over. Therefore, when cleaning is performed using the second cleaning liquid, even if an abnormal value is detected in the analysis of the sample after cleaning, there is no need to perform reanalysis to verify the effect of carry-over. Therefore, when the second cleaning liquid is used, there is no need for reanalysis.

[0042] In one embodiment, the first cleaning liquid is a solution having the same composition as the separation liquid used for separating the sample. The second cleaning liquid is a solution having a different composition from the separation liquid. In one embodiment, the second cleaning liquid includes an organic solvent suitable for cleaning an analytical device. The second cleaning liquid may include a combination of multiple types of cleaning liquid. The multiple types of cleaning liquid are, for example, respectively contained in multiple cleaning liquid containers and appropriately mixed by a mixing valve or the like before being used for cleaning. At least a portion of the multiple types of cleaning liquid may be contained in a mixed state in one cleaning liquid container.

[0043] In one embodiment, a user collects a large number of samples from a client and analyzes them collectively. The user is, for example, a testing outsourcing company. In one embodiment, the user first collects a large number of specimens (samples) from the client. Then, the analysis of the large number of samples is divided into a plurality of batch analyses. The user performs the batch analyses using liquid chromatograph 100. The user then provides the obtained analysis results to the client. Before or after the sample analysis, the user bills the client for a specified amount as compensation for the sample analysis and collects it from the client.

[0044] The following describes seven numerical values ​​N1 to N7 used to calculate the time saved when the second cleaning solution is used instead of the first cleaning solution in the analysis of a given number of samples, and the benefits corresponding to the saved time. The numerical values ​​N1 to N7 are numerical values ​​under a first condition. N1: Analysis time required for one analysis (hereinafter also referred to as "single analysis time"). In one embodiment, the single analysis time is expressed in "minutes". N2: The cleaning time required for one cleaning of the liquid chromatograph (hereinafter, also referred to as "single cleaning time"). In one embodiment, the single cleaning time is expressed in "minutes." N3: Number of calibrations per batch (hereinafter also referred to as "number of calibrations per batch") N4: Number of samples analyzed per batch (hereinafter also referred to as "number of samples per batch") N5: Number of batches analyzed in the first period (hereinafter also referred to as "number of batches per first period") N6: Reanalysis rate that requires reanalysis to confirm whether carryover has occurred (hereinafter also referred to as "reanalysis rate") N7: First profit obtained per analysis (hereinafter referred to as "first profit") Based on the above numerical values ​​N1 to N7, the following numerical values ​​N10 and N20 relating to cost performance are calculated. N10: The third period that is shortened during the second period when the second cleaning solution is used instead of the first cleaning solution. N20: The second profit obtained during the second period when the second cleaning solution is used instead of the first cleaning solution. Each of the first period and the second period is a predetermined period that is set in advance. The first period is a period that is a unit of analysis. The first period is a value that is set, for example, between one day and one year. In one embodiment, the first period is one week. The second period is a period that is a unit of cost performance calculation. The second period is a period that is the same length as the first period, or a period that is longer than the first period. The second period is a value that is set, for example, between one day and several years. In one embodiment, the first period is one year.

[0045] In one embodiment, the third period is calculated as a number of days, but the unit of the third period is not limited thereto and may be calculated as a number of weeks or hours, for example.

[0046] In one embodiment, the control device 9 calculates N10 and N20 based on N1 to N7 using the following formulas 1 and 2.

[0047]

number

[0048]

number

[0049] Equations 1 and 2 will be explained below.

[0050] Hereinafter, N2×{(N4×(100+N6) / 100)+4} in Equation 1 will be referred to as the "first part of Equation 1." The first part of Equation 1 indicates the total washing time required to analyze samples contained in one batch when washing is performed using a first washing solution. More specifically, the first part of Equation 1 indicates the total washing time required to complete one batch under the first conditions.

[0051] More specifically, {(N4×(100+N6) / 100)+4} indicates the total number of washes required to complete one batch under the first condition. The total number of washes is multiplied by the time required for one wash, N2, to calculate the total washing time.

[0052] N4×(100+N6) / 100 is the number of washings associated with analysis per batch. Therefore, N4×(100+N6) / 100 is equal to the number of analyses of samples per batch. More specifically, the number of samples per batch N4 is the number of analyses per batch when there is no reanalysis. Therefore, the number of analyses per batch including reanalysis is calculated by multiplying the value N4 by (100+N6) / 100, which also includes the number of reanalyses. For example, if reanalysis is performed with a probability of 10%, the reanalysis rate N6=10, so N4×(100+N6) / 100=N4×(100+10) / 100=N4×1.1. Therefore, including reanalysis, 1.1 times the number of analyses per batch N4 are performed per batch. The control device 9 then performs washing for each analysis.

[0053] Next, the "4" at the end of {(N4×(100+N6) / 100)+4} will be explained. The "4" is the number of washings without analysis per batch. In one embodiment, the control device 9 performs a series of analyses on all samples in one batch, and then reanalyzes all samples that showed abnormal values. The control device 9 performs washing before and after starting analysis on all samples in the batch. In addition, the control device 9 performs washing before and after reanalysis of the samples that showed abnormal values. Therefore, washing without analysis is performed four times in each batch. Naturally, if the number of washings without analysis per batch is a predetermined number other than four, the value of "4" at the end of {(N4×(100+N6) / 100)+4} is also changed to the predetermined number.

[0054] Hereinafter, N1×{((N4×N6) / 100)+N3} in Equation 1 will be referred to as the "second part of Equation 1". The second part of Equation 1 indicates the total reanalysis time required for reanalysis in consideration of the possibility of carry-over per batch. In other words, the second part of Equation 1 is the total time required for carry-over to complete one batch under the first condition. ((N4×N6) / 100) indicates the number of reanalyses per batch. The number of calibrations associated with reanalysis must be taken into account in ((N4×N6) / 100), and in this embodiment, the number of calibrations associated with reanalysis is equal to the number of calibrations per batch, N3. Therefore, the sum of the number of reanalyses per batch and the number of calibrations associated with reanalysis is {((N4×N6) / 100)+N3}. In one embodiment, after completing the analysis of all samples in a batch, when the user reanalyzes all samples that showed abnormal values, the user performs the same number of calibrations as for the batch analysis. However, if the user performs a predetermined number of calibrations different from the batch analysis during the reanalysis, the "N3" at the end of {((N4+N6) / 100)+N3} is changed to the predetermined number.

[0055] As described above, ((N4×N6) / 100)+N3 in Equation 1 indicates the sum of the number of reanalyses in one batch when there is a possibility of carry-over and the number of calibrations associated with it. Therefore, by multiplying ((N4×N6) / 100)+N3 by the time for one analysis, N1, the "sum of the time required for reanalysis and the time required for carry-over associated with reanalysis" in one batch is calculated when reanalysis is necessary in consideration of the possibility of carry-over.

[0056] From the above, the sum of the first and second parts of Equation 1 is not necessary when using the second cleaning solution, which can be considered to have no possibility of carry-over and the cleaning time can be considered to be zero, but it is the time required when using the first cleaning solution, which has the possibility of carry-over and requires a certain cleaning time. Therefore, the sum of the first and second parts of Equation 1 indicates the period that is shortened when the second cleaning solution is used instead of the first cleaning solution.

[0057] Hereinafter, N5×52 / (60×24) in Equation 1 will be referred to as the “third part of Equation 1.” The third part of Equation 1 converts the units of the first and second parts of Equation 1.

[0058] In this embodiment, since the single cleaning time N1 and the single analysis time N2 are expressed in units of "minutes", the first and second parts of the formula 1 also have units of "minutes". Therefore, in the third part of the formula 1, the sum of the first and second parts of the formula 1 is divided by (60 (minutes) x 24 (hours)) to convert it into units of "days".

[0059] The first and second parts of Equation 1 indicate the total cleaning time and the total reanalysis time per batch. The time required for cleaning and the time required for reanalysis per week are calculated by integrating the number of batches N5 per first period. Furthermore, by multiplying by 52 (weeks), this is converted to the time required for cleaning and the time required for reanalysis per second period (one year).

[0060] Therefore, by multiplying the first and second parts of Equation 1 by the third part, the third period N10 (days) that can be shortened in the second period (one year) when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid can be calculated.

[0061] In the formula 2, the third period N10 is multiplied by the number of samples per batch N4, the number of batches per first period N5, and the first profit N7, and then divided by 7. The reason for dividing by 7 is that in this embodiment, the first period is in units of weeks, so the number of batches per first period N5 is converted to the number of batches per day. This makes the units consistent with the third period N10, so the number of batches that can be performed in the third period N10 can be calculated by multiplying the third period N10 (days) and the number of batches per day. Then, the number of batches that can be performed in the third period N10 can be multiplied by the number of samples per batch N4 and the first profit N7 to calculate the second profit N20 that can be obtained extra in one year by introducing the second cleaning liquid.

[0062] In the example of Fig. 2, image Im10 shows a title "Simulation without Carry-Over". Image Im11 shows questions Q1 to Q5, and displays a form for accepting input of answers A1 to A5 to questions Q1 to Q5. The user inputs the above-mentioned values ​​N1 to N7 as answers A1 to A5.

[0063] Question Q1 asks, "How long does a run take?" As answer A1 to question Q1, the user inputs N1 (min / sample) and N2 (min / wash).

[0064] Question Q2 asks, "How many samples per batch?" As answer A2 to question Q2, the user inputs N3 (calibration) and N4 (samples).

[0065] Question Q3 is, “How many batches per week?” As answer A3 to question Q3, the user inputs N5 (batches).

[0066] Question Q4 is, "What is the positive hit rate that requires re-run?" As answer A4 to question Q4, the user inputs N6 (%).

[0067] Question Q5 is, "How much will you charge the client for the test?" As answer A5 to question Q5, the user inputs N7 (USD: United States Dollar).

[0068] When the user inputs N1 to N7 in image Im11, image Im12 displays N10 and N20 calculated by the control device 9 using N1 to N7. Specifically, image Im12 displays, as "Results," "Without carryover, N10 (days) will be saved in one year," and "A profit of N20 (USD) will be earned."

[0069] As shown in Fig. 2, according to this embodiment, the third period N10 that is shortened when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid, and the second profit N20 obtained by performing an analysis using the second cleaning liquid during the shortened third period can be easily output. Therefore, the title of the image Im1, "Simulation in the absence of carry-over", can be easily performed. The user can easily determine whether to introduce the second cleaning liquid in consideration of the third period N10 and / or the second profit N20 and the purchase price of the second cleaning liquid.

[0070] The display screen of Fig. 2 is provided to the user by, for example, the manufacturer of the liquid chromatograph 100 and / or the second cleaning liquid. For example, the display screen of Fig. 2 is displayed on the display unit 94 of the liquid chromatograph 100. Also, for example, the display screen of Fig. 2 may be included in the homepage of the manufacturer of the liquid chromatograph 100 and / or the second cleaning liquid, and the user may access the homepage and use it. Furthermore, for example, the client may transmit the numerical values ​​N1 to N7 to the user, and the user may calculate the numerical values ​​N10 and N20 using the display screen of Fig. 2, and transmit the display screen and / or the numerical values ​​N10 and N20 to the user.

[0071] [4. Calculation process of cost performance according to the embodiment] 3 is a flowchart showing a calculation process of cost performance according to the embodiment. The process in FIG.

[0072] 3, in step (hereinafter referred to as "S") 1, the processor 91 acquires numerical values ​​N1 to N7. In one embodiment, the processor 91 displays the image Im1 of FIG. 2 on the display unit 94, and acquires the numerical values ​​N1 to N7 input by the user using the input unit 93 in the image Im11.

[0073] In S2, the processor 91 calculates a third period N10 based on the numerical values ​​N1 to N6. In one embodiment, the processor 91 calculates the third period N10 that is shortened during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid by substituting the numerical values ​​N1 to N6 into Equation 1.

[0074] In S3, the processor 91 calculates a second profit N20 based on the numerical values ​​N10, N4, N5, and N7. In one embodiment, the processor 91 calculates the second profit N20 obtained during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid by substituting the numerical values ​​N10, N4, N5, and N7 into Equation 2.

[0075] In S4, the processor 91 outputs the numerical values ​​N10 and N20, and ends the process. In one embodiment, the processor 91 displays N10 and / or N20 in an image Im12 on the display unit 94. In another embodiment, the processor 91 may create a printed matter including N10 and / or N20 using a printer (not shown). In this case, the user provides the printed matter to the client.

[0076] 3, the control device 9 can simply calculate and output the third period N10 that is shortened when the high-performance second cleaning liquid is used instead of the conventional first cleaning liquid, and the expected second profit N20, based on the basic numerical values ​​N1 to N7 related to the analysis. Therefore, it is possible to provide information regarding the cost performance of the cleaning liquid in the liquid chromatograph.

[0077] [5. Calculation method and display screen of cost performance related to modified example] In the above embodiment, the difference in cost performance is calculated only between the high-performance second cleaning liquid and the conventional first cleaning liquid, but the cost performance may be compared simultaneously for three or more cleaning liquids.

[0078] 4 is a diagram showing a display screen relating to calculation of cost performance according to a modified example. The display screen includes an image Im0. The image Im0 includes an image Im1_2 and an image Im2.

[0079] Image Im1_2, like image Im1 in Fig. 2, is an image relating to calculation of cost performance when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid. Image Im1_2 and image Im1 differ only in title images Im10 and Im10_2. In image Im1_2, title image Im10_2 shows the title "Simulation without carryover (first cleaning liquid -> second cleaning liquid)".

[0080] Image Im_2 is an image related to calculation of cost performance when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the third cleaning liquid. The third cleaning liquid is a cleaning liquid having a different composition from the first cleaning liquid and the second cleaning liquid. In one embodiment, the time required to clean the liquid chromatograph 100 with the second cleaning liquid is shorter than the time required to clean the liquid chromatograph 100 with the third cleaning liquid. In addition, the time required to clean the liquid chromatograph 100 with the third cleaning liquid is different from the time required to clean the liquid chromatograph 100 with the first cleaning liquid.

[0081] Image Im2 includes images Im20, Im21, and Im22.

[0082] Image Im20 shows the title "Simulation without carryover (3rd wash → 2nd wash)".

[0083] In image Im21, the single cleaning time N2_2 when the third cleaning liquid is used is different from the single cleaning time N2 when the first cleaning liquid is used. The single cleaning time N2_2 when the third cleaning liquid is used corresponds to one embodiment of the "second cleaning time." In one embodiment, the same numerical values ​​are automatically input in image Im21 for the numerical values ​​N1, N3 to N7 that are the same as those in image Im11. In another embodiment, the user may input the same numerical values ​​as those in image Im11 using input unit 93. Also, in image Im21, an input form may be displayed only for the numerical value N2_2 that is different from that in image Im11.

[0084] In this embodiment, the third cleaning liquid and the first cleaning liquid only differ in cleaning time, but if other values ​​(for example, reanalysis rate N6) are also different, the values ​​may also be configured to be input in image Im21.

[0085] When the user inputs N1, N2_2, N3 to N7 in image Im21, image Im12 displays N10 and N20 calculated by the control device 9 using N1 to N7. Specifically, image Im12 displays, as "Results," "Without carryover, N10_2 (days) will be saved in one year," and "A profit of N20_2 (USD) will be obtained."

[0086] [6. Calculation process of cost performance related to modified example] 5 is a flowchart showing a calculation process of cost performance according to a modified example. The process in FIG.

[0087] S1 to S3 in FIG. 5 are the same as S1 to S3 in FIG.

[0088] In S5, the processor 91 acquires the numerical value N2_2. In one embodiment, the processor 91 displays the image Im0 of FIG.

[0089] In S6, the processor 91 calculates a third period N10_2 based on N1, N2_2, N3, N4, N5, and N6. In one embodiment, the processor 91 calculates a fourth period N10_2 that is shortened during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the third cleaning liquid by substituting the numerical values ​​N1, N2_2, N3, N4, N5, and N6 into Equation 1.

[0090] In S7, the processor 91 calculates the second profit N20_2 based on the numerical values ​​N10_2, N4, N5, and N7. In one embodiment, the processor 91 calculates the third profit N20_2 obtained during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the cleaning liquid during the third period by substituting the numerical values ​​N10_2, N4, N5, and N7.

[0091] In S8, the processor 91 outputs the numerical values ​​N10, N10_2, N20, and N20_2, and ends the process.

[0092] According to the process of Fig. 5, the control device 9 can simultaneously output information on the cost performance when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid and information on the cost performance when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the third cleaning liquid. Therefore, the user can easily compare the cost performance when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid and the cost performance when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the third cleaning liquid. Therefore, it is possible to help the user determine which cleaning liquid to use from the first to third cleaning liquids.

[0093] [Aspects] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the exemplary embodiments described above are examples of the following aspects.

[0094] (Item 1) A method for calculating the cost performance of a liquid chromatograph according to one embodiment includes the steps of: calculating a third period shortened during a second period when a second cleaning liquid is used instead of a first cleaning liquid in a liquid chromatograph capable of batch analysis, based on the analysis time required for one analysis when a first cleaning liquid is used, the cleaning time required for one cleaning of the liquid chromatograph, the number of calibrations per batch, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in a first period, and a reanalysis rate at which reanalysis is required to confirm whether carry-over has occurred, and calculating a second profit obtained during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid, based on the third period, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in the first period, and a first profit obtained per analysis.

[0095] According to the calculation method described in paragraph 1, the third period shortened and the expected second benefit when the high-performance second cleaning solution is used instead of the conventional first cleaning solution can be easily calculated and output based on basic values ​​related to analysis. Therefore, information on the cost performance of cleaning solutions for liquid chromatographs can be provided.

[0096] (2) In the calculation method according to the first paragraph, the first washing liquid is a solution having the same composition as the separating liquid used for separating the sample. The second washing liquid is a solution having a different composition from the separating liquid.

[0097] According to the calculation method described in paragraph 2, it is possible to calculate a third period that is shortened when a second cleaning liquid having a different cleaning composition from the separation liquid is used instead of a first cleaning liquid having the same composition as the separation liquid, and a second benefit corresponding to the shortened period.

[0098] (Clause 3) In the calculation method according to paragraph 1 or 2, each of the first period and the second period is a predetermined period that is set in advance. The second period is a period of the same length as the first period or a period longer than the first period.

[0099] According to the calculation method described in paragraph 3, a second period that is a unit of cost performance calculation and that is longer than a first period that is a predetermined unit of analysis is determined, and a third period that is shortened within the second period and a second profit obtained by the shortening can be calculated.

[0100] (4) In the calculation method pertaining to paragraph 3, the first period is one week, and the second period is one year.

[0101] According to the calculation method described in paragraph 4, by inputting the number of batches per week, which is a common unit of analysis, the third period shortened in the second period and the second profit obtained by said shortening can be easily calculated.

[0102] (Item 5) The calculation method according to any one of items 1 to 4 further includes a step of calculating a fourth period shortened during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the third cleaning liquid based on the analysis time, the analysis time required for one analysis when the third cleaning liquid is used, the second cleaning time required for one cleaning of the liquid chromatograph, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the reanalysis rate at which reanalysis is required to check whether carry-over has occurred, and the number of calibrations per batch; and a step of calculating a third profit obtained during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the third cleaning liquid based on the fourth period, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in the first period, and the first profit.

[0103] According to the calculation method described in paragraph 5, information on the cost performance when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid and information on the cost performance when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the third cleaning liquid can be output simultaneously. Therefore, the user can easily compare the cost performance when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid and the cost performance when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the third cleaning liquid. Therefore, it is possible to help the user determine which of the first to third cleaning liquids should be used.

[0104] (Item 6) A program that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to implement the method for calculating cost performance in a liquid chromatograph according to any one of items 1 to 5.

[0105] According to the program recited in item 6, the method for calculating the cost performance of a liquid chromatograph recited in any one of items 1 to 5 can be easily carried out.

[0106] (7th paragraph) An analysis device according to another aspect includes a processor and a memory. The processor calculates a third period that is shortened during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid, based on the analysis time required for one analysis in a liquid chromatograph capable of batch analysis when a first cleaning liquid is used, the cleaning time required for one cleaning of the liquid chromatograph, the number of calibrations per batch, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in a first period, and a reanalysis rate at which reanalysis is required to confirm whether carry-over has occurred. The processor further calculates a second profit that is obtained during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid, based on the third period, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in the first period, and the first profit obtained per analysis.

[0107] According to the analysis device described in paragraph 7, it is possible to easily calculate and output the third period shortened and the expected second benefit when the high-performance second cleaning solution is used instead of the conventional first cleaning solution, based on basic values ​​related to the analysis. Therefore, it is possible to provide information on the cost performance of the cleaning solution for liquid chromatographs.

[0108] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, not by the description of the embodiments described above, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 1A, 1Z reagent supply section, 3 analysis section, 9 control device, 10A, 10Z, 11A, 11Z cleaning solution container, 12A, 12Z separation solution container, 13A, 13Z, 14A, 14Z cleaning pump, 15A, 15Z separation solution pump, 16A, 16Z mixing valve, 17A switching valve, 18A, 18Z reagent flow path, 31 injection port, 32 high pressure valve, 33 analysis flow path, 34, 64 flow path, 51 sampling flow path, 53, 63 selection valve, 60 sample container, 61 metering pump, 62 low pressure valve, 91 processor, 92 memory, 93 input section, 94 display section, 99 analysis device, 100 liquid chromatograph, 331 column, 511 needle.

Claims

1. a step of calculating a third period that is shortened during the second period when a second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid in a liquid chromatograph capable of batch analysis, based on an analysis time required for one analysis when a first cleaning liquid is used, a cleaning time required for one cleaning of the liquid chromatograph, the number of calibrations per batch, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed during a first period, and a reanalysis rate at which reanalysis is required to confirm whether or not carry-over has occurred; and calculating a second profit to be obtained during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid, based on the third period, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in the first period, and a first profit to be obtained per analysis.

2. the first cleaning solution is a solution having the same composition as a separation solution used for separating a sample, 2. The method for calculating cost performance in a liquid chromatograph according to claim 1, wherein the second cleaning liquid is a solution having a different composition from the separating liquid.

3. each of the first period and the second period is a predetermined period that is set in advance; 3. The method for calculating cost performance in a liquid chromatograph according to claim 1, wherein the second period is a period having the same length as the first period or a period longer than the first period.

4. the first period of time is one week; The method for calculating cost performance in a liquid chromatograph according to claim 3 , wherein the second period is one year.

5. calculating a fourth period that is shortened during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the third cleaning liquid, based on the analysis time, an analysis time required for one analysis when a third cleaning liquid is used, a second cleaning time required for one cleaning of the liquid chromatograph, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the reanalysis rate, and the number of calibrations per batch; 3. The method for calculating cost performance in a liquid chromatograph according to claim 1, further comprising the step of calculating a third profit obtained during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the third cleaning liquid, based on the fourth period, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in the first period, and the first profit.

6. A program that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to carry out the method for calculating cost performance in a liquid chromatograph according to claim 1 or 2.

7. An analysis device including a processor and a memory, The processor, calculating a third period that is shortened during the second period when a second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid in a liquid chromatograph capable of batch analysis, based on the analysis time required for one analysis when a first cleaning liquid is used, the cleaning time required for one cleaning of the liquid chromatograph, the number of calibrations per batch, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed during a first period, and a reanalysis rate at which reanalysis is required to confirm whether or not carry-over has occurred; an analysis device that calculates a second profit to be obtained during the second period when the second cleaning liquid is used instead of the first cleaning liquid, based on the third period, the number of samples analyzed per batch, the number of batches analyzed in the first period, and a first profit to be obtained per analysis.

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