Method for configuring a system for chemical separation

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method 500 performed by a system 110 operable to configure a chemical separation system 120, the method including step 510 of receiving system hardware configuration data, the system hardware configuration data indicating at least fluid operation modules 121_1 to 12N_M of the chemical separation system 120, desired functionality of the fluid operation modules, and a fluid network 210 comprising fluid couplers configured to fluidly couple the fluid operation modules 121_1 to 12N_M; step 520 of identifying a first set of function blocks to provide the desired functionality for the indicated fluid operation modules; step 530 of generating a second set of function blocks by purging a third set of function blocks from the first set of function blocks using the configuration data to eliminate dead code; and step 530 of transmitting the second set of function blocks to the system 120.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method of configuring a system for chemical separations. [Background technology]

[0002] To efficiently perform chemical separations, such as liquid chromatography separations, a system must be configured to support the desired chromatographic process, which involves tedious and time-consuming manual procedures.

[0003] Typically, several fluid manipulation modules are selected and fluidly coupled via a fluid network, and by combining different fluid manipulation modules, different functionality can be enabled and / or achieved.

[0004] In one example, the addition of fluid handling modules in the form of pumps and conductivity sensors allows for chemical separations to be performed on conductivity-based gradients, i.e., the functionality associated with a particular fluid handling module depends in part on the selection of additional fluid handling modules.

[0005] The subset of fluid manipulation modules each include a control unit such as a programmable logic controller, PLC, etc. Thus, the software required to provide the desired functionality of the fluid manipulation module will vary depending on the selection of additional fluid manipulation modules.

[0006] In conventional solutions, an expert system may be used to generate a configuration and identify the fluid handling modules, desired functionality, and necessary fluid connections. The chemical separation device or system is then assembled according to the configuration. Software, often in the form of PLC function blocks, is loaded into the control units of the fluid handling modules of the assembled chemical separation device or system.

[0007] This has the disadvantage that each control unit is loaded with software supporting all of the functionality that a particular fluid handling module can provide. The inclusion of software that is not used but may be accidentally executed significantly increases the risk of production errors and reduces overall safety.

[0008] Thus, there is a need for improved methods for configuring devices or systems for chemical separations, particularly for configuring the software of the devices or systems. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] It is an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide a solution that alleviates or overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks and problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] These and further objects are achieved by the subject matter described herein.Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are further defined herein.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the above and other objects are achieved by a method performed by a system operable to configure a chemical separation system, the method comprising the steps of receiving system hardware configuration data, the system hardware configuration data indicating at least fluid operation modules of the chemical separation system, desired functionality of the fluid operation modules, and a fluid network comprising fluid couplers configured to fluidly couple the fluid operation modules; identifying a first set of function blocks to provide the desired functionality for the indicated fluid operation modules; generating a second set of function blocks by purging a third set of function blocks from the first set of function blocks using the configuration data to eliminate dead code; and transmitting the second set of function blocks to the system.

[0012] In one embodiment according to the first aspect, generating the second set of function blocks includes mapping a desired functionality to each function block included in the first set of function blocks, and identifying a third set of function blocks as blocks included in the first set of function blocks that are not mapped to the desired functionality.

[0013] In one embodiment according to the first aspect, the method further includes storing data related to the chemical separation system by storing, in the database, an identification of the chemical separation system, an identification of the function blocks in the second set of function blocks, an identification of the version of the function blocks in the second set of function blocks, and an identification of the fluid manipulation module with which each function block in the second set of function blocks is associated.

[0014] In one embodiment according to the first aspect, the function blocks are function blocks defined by the IEC 61131-3 standard.

[0015] In one embodiment according to the first aspect, the system hardware configuration data indicates a fluid handling module selected from one or more of an inlet port module, a system pump module, a pressure sensor module, a mixer module, an air trap module, a conductivity module, a column module, a UV module, a pH module, and an outlet module.

[0016] In one embodiment according to the first aspect, the system hardware configuration data indicates at least a flow scheme for directing fluids into and out of the system and for operating said fluid handling modules of the system according to a selected protocol.

[0017] An advantage of the present disclosure according to at least the first aspect is that it achieves fully automated creation of equipment configuration ICs for specific chemical separation system configurations. This is an improvement over conventional solutions that involve manual or semi-manual processes. A further advantage is that by ensuring that a well-defined, reproducible process for IC generation for every customer-specific system configuration is achieved, manual intervention is reduced, thereby reducing the risk of introducing bugs or fixes. A further advantage is that dead code is eliminated by purging function blocks that support functionality that is not part of the desired functionality. That is, a particular fluid manipulation module may support more functionality than desired, and the software supporting that functionality is purged before being loaded into each fluid manipulation module. A further advantage is that the resulting ICs are reproducible and are generated in the same way when repeated. A further advantage is that it reduces time and complexity when updating existing chemical separation systems in the field, since all new ICs can be generated at once for all customers requiring updates. A further advantage is that it reduces time and complexity when performing test runs of customer configurations.

[0018] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the above and other objects are achieved by a configuration system, the system comprising a circuit comprising a processing circuit and a memory, said memory containing instructions executable by said processing circuit, the configuration system being communicatively coupled to a fluid manipulation module of a chemical separation system, whereby said system is configured to perform a method according to any one of the preceding claims when the instructions are executed by said processing circuit.

[0019] In one embodiment according to the second aspect, the configuration system is further communicatively coupled to a database, the database configured to store identification information of the function blocks in the set of function blocks, store version identification information of the function blocks in the set of function blocks, and store identification information of the fluid manipulation module with which each function block in the set of function blocks is associated.

[0020] In one embodiment according to the second aspect, the database is further configured to store an identification of a chemical separation system in which each functional block of the set of functional blocks is installed.

[0021] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the above and other objects are achieved by a computer program comprising computer-executable instructions which, when executed on processing circuitry included in the control unit, cause the control unit to perform the method according to the first aspect.

[0022] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the above and other objects are achieved by a computer program product including a computer readable storage medium having embodied therein a computer program according to the third aspect.

[0023] The advantages of the disclosure according to the second through fourth aspects are at least similar to those of the first aspect. A more complete understanding of embodiments of the present invention, as well as a realization of additional advantages thereof, will be afforded to those skilled in the art by consideration of the following detailed description of one or more embodiments. It should be understood that like reference numerals have been used to identify like elements shown in one or more of the figures. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration system operable to configure a chemical separation system for chemical separation according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2]FIG. 1 illustrates details of a chemical separation system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 illustrates the storage of a second set of function blocks in a database in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an example configuration of a chemical separation system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart of a method according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1A-1C illustrate further examples of configurations of chemical separation systems according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1A-1C illustrate further examples of configurations of chemical separation systems according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] A more complete understanding of embodiments of the present invention, as well as a realization of additional advantages thereof, will be afforded to those skilled in the art by a consideration of the following detailed description of one or more embodiments. It should be understood that like reference numerals have been used to identify like elements shown in one or more of the figures.

[0026] The present disclosure relates to devices or systems for chemical separations. Such systems are typically formed or designed from a selection of multiple fluid-handling modules that are selected based on the desired target substances to be achieved by the chemical separation. An example of such a chemical separation device / system is the Cytiva AKTA® chromatography instrument.

[0027] The large selection of available fluid handling modules results in a vast number of possible combinations. To deal with this complexity, expert systems are typically used to guide the user in selecting appropriate and compatible fluid handling modules.

[0028] Given a particular selected combination of fluid handling modules, the desired functionality that a user desires from that selected combination, and the functionality that the selected combination can support, can still vary widely.

[0029] In traditional solutions, this is addressed by loading software that enables all the functionality that the selected combination can support, which means there is "dead code" in the system that is unused unless a software bug accidentally addresses the dead code.

[0030] The present solution solves this problem by identifying only those function blocks that are necessary to provide the desired functionality for the fluid handling module shown.

[0031] Additionally, the present disclosure stores the identities and versions of these identified function blocks in a database along with the device / system identities, which can improve efficiency, for example, when a software bug is identified in a function block or when a function block is updated. Devices / systems that have the particular function block can then be identified and updated.

[0032] At least one advantage of the present disclosure is that it can reduce the complexity of selecting software for chemical separation devices / systems. A further advantage is that it can improve operational safety by eliminating dead code. A further advantage is that it can reduce the complexity of updating / maintaining software for chemical separation devices / systems.

[0033] "Or" in this specification and the corresponding claims should be understood as a mathematical OR, which includes "and" and "or," and not as an XOR (exclusive OR). The indefinite article "a" in this disclosure and claims is not limited to "one" but can also be understood as "one or more," i.e., plural.

[0034] In this disclosure, processing circuitry and processing means are referred to interchangeably.

[0035] In this disclosure, the term "fluid handling module" refers to components, parts, or materials that form a chemical separation system, such as a chromatography device.

[0036] In this disclosure, the term "fluid network" refers to components configured to allow fluid to flow therethrough, thereby fluidly connecting a fluid manipulation module, an input port, an output port, and any external components fluidly coupled to any of the fluid manipulation modules. Examples of such components are connectors, conduits, or tubing.

[0037] In this disclosure, the terms "system hardware configuration data" or "configuration data" refer to data that describes the configuration of a chemical separation system. The configuration data typically describes the modules included in the chemical separation system, the desired functionality of the modules included in the chemical separation system, and the fluid network that fluidly connects the modules.

[0038] In this disclosure, the term "function block" refers to a software block that defines a function between input and output variables, typically an IEC 61131-3 function block.

[0039] In this disclosure, the term "target molecule" refers to a desired molecule, typically a molecule separated in a liquid chromatography process.

[0040] In this disclosure, the term "target substance" refers to a desired substance, typically a substance separated in a liquid chromatography process.

[0041] In this disclosure, the terms "chromatography" or "liquid chromatography" refer to a process for separating components of a mixture. The mixture is dissolved in a first substance called the mobile phase. The mixture and the first substance are fed into the inlet of a chromatography column filled with a second substance called the stationary phase. The different components of the mixture move through the stationary phase at different rates, causing them to separate from each other at the outlet of the chromatography column. The properties of the specific mobile and stationary phases determine which substances move faster or slower and how well they are separated. These different migration times are called retention times and are recorded as retention data.

[0042] In this disclosure, the term "chromatographic run" refers to a cycle in which a mixture and a first substance travel from the inlet to the outlet of a chromatography column.

[0043] In this disclosure, the term "operating mode" defines chromatographic run characteristics, such as chromatographic column characteristics, bead / microporous volume characteristics, mobile phase characteristics, stationary phase characteristics, and mixture characteristics. This may include mobile phase modifiers such as pH, salt concentration, and ionic strength, which may be changed during a chromatographic run.

[0044] In this disclosure, the terms "retention behavior" and "retention behavior data" refer to the behavior of a mixture and a first substance moving through a chromatography column and the data recorded about that behavior. The retention behavior data may further include the chromatography run characteristics defined above. The retention behavior data may further include processed or aggregated data based on the above-mentioned categories of data. In one example, the retention behavior data includes the migration time of components of the mixture from the inlet of the chromatography column to the outlet of the chromatography column. In a further example, the retention behavior data includes the run volume or total volume of the mixture and the mobile phase.

[0045] In this disclosure, the term "fluidic network" refers to fluidically coupled device / system components typically configured to hold, direct, and control fluid flow. Examples of device components included in a fluidic network are conduits / pipes, fluid containers / receptacles, sensors, valves, fluid columns, etc.

[0046] Some device components may be controllable, communicatively coupled to a control unit, responsive to control signals received from the control unit, and / or transmitting data, e.g., device component properties and / or measurement data, as control signals to the control unit. Examples of such controllable device components are sensors and controllable valves.

[0047] 1 illustrates a configuration system 110 operable to configure a chemical separation system 120 for chemical separation according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The chemical separation system 120 may be, for example, a chemical separation device such as a chromatography device.

[0048] Chemical separation system 120 includes a plurality of fluid manipulation modules 121_1 to 121_M fluidly coupled by a fluid network including, for example, conduits and / or pipes.

[0049] The configuration system 110 previously received or defined the configuration of the fluid manipulation modules 121_1 to 121_M and the fluid network as system hardware configuration data, that is, data indicating the configuration of the chemical separation system 120.

[0050] The system hardware configuration data indicates at least the fluid manipulation modules (121_1-12N_M) of the chemical separation system 120. The system hardware configuration data further indicates the desired functionality of the fluid manipulation modules and a fluid network, including fluid couplers configured to fluidly couple the fluid manipulation modules (121_1-12N_M) to the interior or exterior of the chemical separation system.

[0051] The configuration system 110 then identifies a first set of function blocks to provide the desired functionality for the indicated fluid manipulation module. In one example, the configuration system 110 identifies the first set of function blocks by referencing a database using identification or type information of the fluid manipulation modules 121_1-12N_M and / or the fluid network.

[0052] In one example, the fluid manipulation module includes a controllable valve and a controllable pump (not shown). Identifying a first set of function blocks to provide desired functionality for the illustrated fluid manipulation module typically involves searching all function blocks associated with the identities or types of controllable valves and controllable pumps. The desired functionality may include opening valves and operating pumps in a fixed flow mode in response to signals, such as control signals from a control panel.

[0053] The configuration system 110 then generates a second set of function blocks by purging the third set of function blocks from the first set of function blocks to eliminate dead code using the configuration data.

[0054] In one example, the function blocks associated with a pump in a first set of function blocks may include a first function block for fixed flow and a second function block for variable flow. The second function block may then be added to a third set of function blocks, effectively purging, because the desired functionality does not include variable flow operation.

[0055] Configuration system 110 then transmits the second set of function blocks to chemical separation system 120. In a practical situation, this may involve loading the function blocks of the second set of function blocks into the corresponding control units of the fluid handling modules.

[0056] 2 shows details of a chemical separation system 120 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The chemical separation system 120 comprises a fluid network 210 that fluidly couples selected fluid manipulation modules 121_1-12N_M and / or fluid manipulation modules 121_1-12N_M to each other and to input / output ports and other external modules, such as chromatography columns.

[0057] Chemical separation system 120 optionally includes a central control unit 220 having a second set of selections of the functional blocks described in FIG. 1 loaded into memory.

[0058] Additionally, the selected fluid manipulation modules 121_1 to 12N_M each optionally comprise a respective control unit 221_1 to 22N_M each having a selection of a second set of function blocks as set forth in FIG. 1 loaded into memory.

[0059] 3 illustrates the storage of a second set of function blocks in a database 310 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The configuration system 110 may generate the second set of function blocks for three different chemical separation systems 102A-120C.

[0060] The configuration system 110 may then store the corresponding set of function blocks along with additional metadata such as system identification information, module identification information, and function block version identification information.

[0061] As can be seen from FIG. 3, this allows device 120B to be identified as having the older version 3.1 of function block 121_1, which can then be updated to version 3.2.

[0062] 4 illustrates an example configuration of a chemical separation system 120 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. This configuration includes a first input port module 411 and a second input port module 412, each configured to allow or not allow fluid flow from one or more inlets A1-A3, B1-B3 by actuating a controllable valve. A fluid network then fluidically couples the first input port 411 and the second input port 412 to a pressure sensor 415. The pressure sensor 415 is optionally fluidly coupled to a mixer module 420 configured to mix the incoming fluids. The mixer module 420 is then optionally coupled, either directly or via a conductivity sensor module 421, to an air trap module 431 configured to remove air from the incoming fluids. The air trap module 431 is then coupled to a column module 450 configured to control flow to and from columns 455, 456. Column module 450 optionally includes, directly or via flow and / or conductivity sensors, pressure sensors 451, 452 and controllable column valves 453, 454. Column module 450 is then fluidly coupled to one or more output port modules 490, each configured to allow fluid to flow or not allow fluid to flow from one or more outlets O1-O3 by controlling the controllable valves.

[0063] The chemical separation system 120 further comprises a selection of sensors such as a pressure sensor P, a conductivity sensor C, a flow sensor F, an ultraviolet sensor UV, and a pH sensor pH.

[0064] First input port module 411, second input port module 412, mixer module 420, air trap module 431, column module 450, and output port module 490 typically comprise circuitry including a processor configured to execute functional blocks to provide functionality. Because functionality depends in part on the combination of fluid manipulation modules, the software required to provide the desired functionality will vary depending on the combination of fluid manipulation modules.

[0065] In one example, the addition of fluid handling modules in the form of pumps and conductivity sensors allows for chemical separations to be performed on conductivity-based gradients, i.e., the functionality associated with a particular fluid handling module depends in part on the selection of additional fluid handling modules.

[0066] Because the functionality of a fluid manipulation module varies depending on the configuration of the chemical separation system 120, all of the function blocks necessary to support all of the functionality of the fluid manipulation module are typically retrieved from a database configured to associate fluid manipulation modules with function blocks. Effectively, this contains a relatively large amount of dead code, which can be accidentally addressed by a software bug and pose a risk to the chemical separation system 120.

[0067] The methods disclosed herein address this problem.

[0068] 5 shows a flowchart of a method according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The method is performed by a configuration system 110 operable to configure a chemical separation system 120. The method includes:

[0069] Step 510: Receive system hardware configuration data, the system hardware configuration data indicating at least fluid manipulation modules 121_1-12N_M of the chemical separation system 120, the desired functionality of the fluid manipulation modules, and a fluid network 210 including fluid couplers configured to fluidly couple the fluid manipulation modules 121_1-12N_M.

[0070] Step 520: Identify a first set of function blocks to provide the desired functionality for the indicated fluid handling module.

[0071] In one example, identifying a first set of function blocks to provide desired functionality for the indicated fluid manipulation module typically involves retrieving all function blocks associated with the identities or types of fluid manipulation modules 121_1-12N_M of chemical separation system 120 from a database that links the identities or types of fluid manipulation modules 121_1-12N_M to fluid manipulation modules.

[0072] Step 530: Generate a second set of function blocks by purging a third set of function blocks from the first set of function blocks to eliminate dead code using the configuration data.

[0073] Generating the second set of function blocks typically involves mapping desired functionality indicated by the system hardware configuration data to the first set of function blocks and identifying, as a third set of function blocks, function blocks that support functionality not required to perform / provide the desired functionality. Purging function blocks is further described in relation to FIG. 1. In other words, the present disclosure uses a predetermined database to map desired functionality to function blocks, and then removes function blocks that support functionality not required to perform / provide the desired functionality. In this manner, unnecessary function blocks are removed, minimizing or reducing the amount of "dead code."

[0074] Step 540: Send the second set of function blocks to the chemical separation system 120.

[0075] The second set of function blocks can typically be transmitted to the second set of function blocks via a communication network.

[0076] In one embodiment, generating the second set of function blocks includes mapping a desired functionality to each function block included in the first set of function blocks, and identifying a third set of function blocks as blocks included in the first set of function blocks that are not mapped to the desired functionality.

[0077] In one embodiment, the method further includes storing data related to chemical separation system 120 by storing an identification of chemical separation system 120, storing identifications of function blocks in a second set of function blocks, storing version identifications of said function blocks in the second set of function blocks, and storing identifications of fluid manipulation modules 121_1-12N_M with which each function block in the second set of function blocks is associated in a database, as further described in connection with FIG.

[0078] This has the advantage of at least reducing the complexity of updating the software of an existing chemical separation system 120, since the function blocks and software versions of the function blocks can be easily mapped to the particular chemical separation system 120 already installed.

[0079] In one embodiment, the function blocks are function blocks defined by the IEC 61131-3 standard.

[0080] In one embodiment, the system hardware configuration data indicates fluid handling modules selected from one or more of inlet port modules 411, 412, system pump modules 413, 414, pressure sensor modules 415, 451, 452, mixer module 420, air trap module 431, conductivity modules 440, 460, column module 450, UV module 470, pH module 489 and outlet module 490.

[0081] It is understood that any number of examples of fluid manipulation modules may be illustrated without departing from this disclosure, and it is further understood that the teachings herein may be extended to any number of different fluid manipulation modules known in the art without departing from this disclosure.

[0082] In one embodiment, the system hardware configuration data indicates at least a flow scheme for directing fluids to and from the system 120 and operating the fluid manipulation modules 121_1-12N_M of the chemical separation system 120 according to a selected protocol or method.

[0083] In a further aspect of the present disclosure, a configuration system 110 is provided.

[0084] 6 illustrates a configuration system 110 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The configuration system 110 comprises a circuit 660 comprising a processing circuit and a memory, the memory including instructions executable by the processing circuit, and the configuration system 110 is communicatively coupled to fluid manipulation modules 121_1-12N_M of a chemical separation system 120, such that the system is configured to perform methods described herein when instructions are executed by the processing circuit.

[0085] In one embodiment, configuration system 110 is further communicatively coupled to database 310. Database 310 is configured to store identification information of function blocks in the set of function blocks, store version identification information of said function blocks in the set of function blocks, and store identification information of fluid manipulation modules 121_1-12N_M with which each function block in the set of function blocks is associated.

[0086] Additionally or alternatively, database 310 is further configured to store identification information for chemical separation system 120 in which each functional block of the set of functional blocks is installed.

[0087] In a further aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program is provided, the computer program comprising computer-executable instructions that, when executed on processing circuitry included in the control unit, cause the control unit to perform any of the method steps described herein.

[0088] In a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program product including a computer readable storage medium having embodied therein the computer program described above.

[0089] 6, configuration system 110 includes a control unit 660 that includes circuitry, such as a processor and memory. The memory can include instructions executable by the processor, whereby the device operates to perform any of the steps or methods described herein. Control unit 660 may include a single control unit or one or more distributed control units that cooperate to perform the methods described herein.

[0090] Additionally or alternatively, chemical separation system 120 may further comprise a controllable fluid network 210, for example comprising fluidly coupled pipes or conduits.

[0091] Additionally or alternatively, the device may further comprise a chromatography column 630 further comprising at least one fluid inlet 631 and one fluid outlet 632. The fluid inlet 631 and one fluid outlet 632 are typically fluidly coupled to the controllable fluid network 210.

[0092] The chemical separation system 120 may optionally further comprise a fraction collection unit 650. The fraction collection unit 650 is typically fluidly coupled to the controllable fluid network.

[0093] Additionally or alternatively, the chemical separation system 120 further comprises a display 680 .

[0094] Additionally or alternatively, the chemical separation system 120 further comprises an input device 670 .

[0095] In one embodiment, the device further comprises one or more sensors (not shown) configured to measure properties of the fluid in chemical separation system 120 and / or fluid network 210. Control unit 660 is further optionally communicatively coupled to each sensor. The sensors may be configured to pressurize the fluid in the device and / or measure the pH and / or conductivity of the fluid. Any suitable sensor for performing fluid measurements may be used.

[0096] The chemical separation system 120 may be in the form of, for example, a chromatography apparatus, an electronic control unit, a server, an on-board computer, a stationary computing device, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a handheld computer, a wrist-worn computer, a smartwatch, a smartphone, or a smart TV. The chemical separation system 120 may comprise circuitry communicatively coupled to a transceiver configured for wired or wireless communication. The chemical separation system 120 may further comprise at least one optional antenna (not shown). The antenna may be coupled to the transceiver and configured to transmit and / or emit and / or receive wired or wireless signals within a communication network, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 3G, 4G, 5G, etc. In one example, the processing circuitry may be any of a selection of processing circuits, and / or a central processing unit and / or a processor module, and / or multiple processors configured to cooperate with each other. Additionally, the chemical separation system 120 may further comprise memory. The memory may comprise, for example, hard RAM, a disk drive, a floppy disk drive, a flash drive, or other removable or fixed media drive, or any other suitable memory selection known in the art. The memory may include instructions executable by the processing circuitry to perform any of the steps or methods described herein. The processing circuitry may optionally be communicatively coupled to a transceiver, memory, one or more sensors, such as pH sensors, conductivity sensors, and pressure sensors, or a selection of any suitable type of sensors capable of measuring characteristics of the device and / or the fluid being processed by the device. Chemical separation system 120 may be configured to send and receive control signals directly to any of the above-mentioned units or external nodes, or to send and receive control signals via a wired and / or wireless communication network.

[0097] The wired / wireless transceiver and / or wired / wireless communication network adapter may be configured to transmit and / or receive data values or parameters as signals to and from the processing circuitry from other external nodes, such as a measured pH or conductivity of a buffer solution or a generated volume.

[0098] In one embodiment, the transceiver communicates directly with an external node or over a wireless communication network.

[0099] In one or more embodiments, the input device 670 is configured to receive input or instructions from a user and to transmit user input signals indicative of the user input or instructions to the processing circuit.

[0100] In one or more embodiments, display 680 is configured to receive display signals from the processing circuitry indicating rendered objects, such as text or graphical user input objects, and to display the received signals as objects, such as text or graphical user input objects.

[0101] In one embodiment, display 680 is integrated with user input device 670 and is configured to receive display signals indicative of rendered objects, such as text or graphical user input objects, from the processing circuitry and display the received signals as objects, such as text or graphical user input objects, and / or to receive input or instructions from a user and send user input signals indicative of the user input or instructions to the processing circuitry.

[0102] In further embodiments, chemical separation system 120 may further comprise and / or be coupled to one or more additional sensors (not shown) configured to receive and / or acquire and / or measure physical properties associated with the device / system and / or the atmosphere surrounding the device / system and transmit one or more sensor signals indicative of the physical properties of the device to the processing circuitry, for example, a temperature sensor measuring ambient air temperature.

[0103] In an embodiment, the communication network is a local area network (LAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), Global System for Mobile Networks (GSM), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System, Long Term Evolution, High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (W-CDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), LTE Advanced, IEEE 802.16m, Wireless MAN-Advanced, Evolved High Speed Packet Access (HSPA+), 3GPP Long Term Evolution (LTE), Mobile WiMAX (IEEE 802.16e), Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB) (formerly Evolution-Data The wireless communication system communicates using wired or wireless communication technologies, which may include, but are not limited to, at least one of: EV-DO Optimized (EV-DO) Rev. C), High Speed Low Latency Access with Seamless Handoff Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (Flash-OFDM), High Capacity Spatial Division Multiple Access (iBurst®) and Mobile Broadband Wireless Access (MBWA) (IEEE 802.20) systems, High Performance Wireless Metropolitan Area Network (HIPERMAN), Beam Division Multiple Access (BDMA), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (Wi-MAX), and ultrasonic communications.

[0104] Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the chemical separation system 120 may comprise the necessary communication capabilities, for example in the form of functions, means, units, elements, etc. Examples of other such means, units, elements, and functions are processors, memories, buffers, control logic, encoders, decoders, rate matchers, de-rate matchers, mapping units, multipliers, decision units, selection units, switches, interleavers, de-interleavers, modulators, demodulators, inputs, outputs, antennas, amplifiers, receiver units, transmitter units, DSPs, MSDs, TCM encoders, TCM decoders, power supply units, power feeders, communication interfaces, communication protocols, etc., suitably arranged together to carry out the present solutions.

[0105] In particular, the processing circuit and / or processing means of the present disclosure may comprise one or more instances of processing circuits, processor modules, and multiple processors, central processing units (CPUs), processing units, processing circuits, processors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), microprocessors, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other processing logic capable of interpreting and executing instructions, configured to cooperate with one another. Thus, the phrases "processing circuit" and / or "processing means" may refer to a processing circuit comprising multiple processing circuits, such as any, some, or all of the above. The processing means may further perform data processing functions for inputting, outputting, and processing data, including device control functions such as data buffering and user interface control.

[0106] 7 illustrates a further example of a configuration of a chemical separation system 120 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. This particular example shows a flow diagram of the AKTA process with a single filter and feed pump C option.

[0107] This configuration includes first, second, and third input port modules 711-713. This configuration further includes an air trap module 721, a column module 731, and an output port module 790. These modules and the sensors P, F, AS, pH, and UV are further described in connection with Figure 4. This configuration further includes a single filter 722.

[0108] 8 illustrates a further example of a configuration of a chemical separation system 120 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. This particular example shows a flow diagram of an AKTA process with two filters and an ILD pump C option.

[0109] This configuration includes first, second, and third input port modules 811-813. This configuration further includes an air trap module 821, a column module 831, and an output port module 890. These modules and the sensors P, F, AS, pH, and UV are further described in connection with Figure 4. This configuration further includes two filters 822 and 823.

[0110] Finally, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but also relates to and incorporates all embodiments within the scope of the appended independent claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0111] 110 Configuration System 120 Chemical Separation System 121_1~12N_M Fluid Operation Module 210 Fluid Networks 220 Central Control Unit 221_1~22N_M control unit 310 Database 411 first input port module 412 Second Input Port Module 413, 414 System Pump Module 415 Pressure Sensor Module 420 Mixer Module 421 Conductivity Sensor Module 431 Air Trap Module 440 Conductivity Module 450 Column Module 451, 452 Pressure Sensor Module 453, 454 Controllable column valve 455, 456 columns 460 Conductivity Module 470 UV module 489 pH Module 490 Output Port Module 630 Chromatography Column 631 Fluid Inlet 632 Fluid outlet 650 fraction collection units 660 Control Unit 670 Input Devices 680 display 711 First Input Port Module 712 Second Input Port Module 713 Third Input Port Module 721 Air Trap Module 722 filters 731 Column Module 790 Output Port Module 811 First Input Port Module 812 Second Input Port Module 813 Third Input Port Module 821 Air Trap Module 822, 823 filters 831 Column Module 890 Output Port Module

Claims

1. A method (500) performed by a configuration system (110) operable to configure a chemical separation system (120), the method comprising: receiving (510) system hardware configuration data, the system hardware configuration data indicating at least fluid manipulation modules of the chemical separation system, desired functionality of the fluid manipulation modules, and a fluid network comprising fluid couplers configured to fluidly couple the fluid manipulation modules; identifying (520) a first set of function blocks to provide the desired functionality for the indicated fluid handling module; generating (530) a second set of function blocks by purging a third set of function blocks from the first set of function blocks to eliminate dead code using the system hardware configuration data; transmitting (530) the second set of function blocks to the system; The method (500) includes:

2. The step of generating the second set of function blocks (530) comprises: mapping the desired functionality to each function block included in the first set of function blocks; identifying the third set of function blocks as blocks in the first set of function blocks that are not mapped to the desired functionality; The method (500) of claim 1, comprising:

3. 3. The method (500) of claim 1 or 2, further comprising storing data related to the chemical separation system by storing in a database an identification of the chemical separation system, an identification of the function blocks in the second set of function blocks, an identification of the version of the function blocks in the second set of function blocks, and an identification of the fluid manipulation module with which each function block in the second set of function blocks is associated.

4. The method (500) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said functional blocks are functional blocks defined by the IEC 61131-3 standard.

5. 5. The method (500) of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the system hardware configuration data indicates fluid handling modules selected from one or more of an inlet port module, a system pump module, a pressure sensor module, a mixer module, an air trap module, a conductivity module, a column module, a UV module, a pH module, and an outlet module.

6. 6. The method (500) of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the system hardware configuration data indicates at least a flow scheme for directing fluids into and out of the system and for operating the fluid handling modules of the system according to a selected protocol.

7. A configuration system (110), comprising: a processing circuit; Memory and 10. A configuration system (110) comprising: a circuit (660) comprising: a memory including instructions executable by the processing circuit; the memory including instructions executable by the processing circuit; and the configuration system being communicatively coupled to a fluid manipulation module of a chemical separation system, whereby the system is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 6 when the instructions are executed by the processing circuit.

8. 10. The configuration system (110) of claim 7, further comprising: a database (310) communicatively coupled to the database (310), the database (310) configured to store identification information of function blocks within a set of function blocks, store version identification information of the function blocks within the set of function blocks, and store identification information of the fluid manipulation module with which each function block of the set of function blocks is associated.

9. The configuration system (110) of claim 8, wherein the database (310) is further configured to store an identification of a chemical separation system in which each function block of the set of function blocks is installed.

10. 7. A computer program comprising computer-executable instructions which, when executed on processing circuitry included in a control unit (660), cause the control unit (660) to perform any of the steps of the method of any one of claims 1 to 6.

11. A computer program product comprising a computer readable storage medium having embodied therein a computer program according to claim 10.

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