Pretreatment system and pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients

Abstract

A sample preparation system for measuring active ingredients is disclosed. The sample preparation system may include a cartridge station on which at least one cartridge is placed; a pipetting device configured to inject a sample or standard sample into the at least one cartridge; a vial shaker configured to shake the placed first and second vials, on which at least one first vial containing a sample to be analyzed and a second vial containing a standard sample whose properties, including components and concentration, are known; a drying chamber on which at least one reservoir is placed and configured to dry the solution in at least one reservoir; and a reservoir processing unit configured to selectively bind to the at least one reservoir and to spray a solvent into the at least one reservoir. A sample preparation method performed using the sample preparation system is further disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application Nos. 10-2024-0066013, 10-2024-0066014, and 10-2024-0066015 filed on May 21, 2024, and all the contents disclosed in the documents of the Korean patent applications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a pretreatment system and method for measuring an active ingredient, and automates a long and complex pretreatment process for detecting trace amounts of active ingredients contained in waste, minimizing deviations in analysis results, and improving the efficiency of analysis. The present invention relates to a pretreatment system and method for measuring an active ingredient in waste.

Background Art

[0003] Dioxins are generated when organic compounds containing chlorine burn, and are mainly generated when burning garbage. Due to the toxicity problem of dioxins contained in waste, the importance of regulating and managing dioxin emissions has increased. Accordingly, there is a need for a process to detect and quantify trace amounts of dioxins contained in waste.

[0004] Generally, in order to analyze dioxin compounds, an extraction step of extracting dioxin compounds from a sample, a purification step of removing interfering substances from the extract, and a concentration step of concentrating the eluate are sequentially performed. Among such a three-step pretreatment process, the required time for the purification step and the concentration step is long, and it is performed manually and depends on the proficiency of the operator. As a result, the analysis results may vary for each analyst.

[0005] The matters described in this background art section are created to enhance the understanding of the background of the invention, and may include matters that are not prior art already known to those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this technology pertains. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a pretreatment system and pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients in waste, which automates the long and complex pretreatment process for detecting trace amounts of active ingredients contained in the waste. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A sample preparation system for measuring active ingredients according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cartridge station on which at least one cartridge is placed; a pipetting device configured to inject a sample or standard sample into the at least one cartridge; a vial shaker configured to shake the placed first and second vials, on which at least one first vial containing a sample to be analyzed and a second vial containing a standard sample whose properties, including components and concentration, are known; a drying chamber on which at least one reservoir is placed and configured to dry the solution in at least one reservoir; and a reservoir processing unit selectively coupled to the at least one reservoir and configured to spray a solvent into the at least one reservoir, wherein the upper end of the at least one reservoir is selectively coupled to the lower end of the at least one cartridge, so that each reservoir is in fluid communication with the corresponding cartridge, and a collection vial that is in fluid communication with the reservoir can be detachably coupled to the lower end of each reservoir.

[0008] The pre-processing system may further include a pipetting device transfer device configured to transfer the pipetting device at least between a vial shaker and a cartridge station.

[0009] The pipetting device may include a pipette module body, a pipette piston that is movable relative to the pipette module body in a vertical direction, and a pipette push actuator that is movable in a vertical direction and configured to push the upper end of the pipette piston.

[0010] With the pipette tip attached to the lower end of the pipette piston immersed in the sample in the first vial, the pipette push actuator can push the upper end of the pipette piston two to three times to collect the sample.

[0011] The pipette piston can be elastically attached to the pipette module body.

[0012] The pretreatment system may further include a cartridge purification device, which is selectively coupled to the upper end of at least one cartridge and configured to inject a solvent into at least one cartridge.

[0013] The cartridge purification apparatus may be further configured to inject gas into at least one cartridge.

[0014] The pretreatment system may further include a conditioning drain unit configured to selectively bind to the lower end of at least one cartridge and to discharge the solvent that has been ejected from the cartridge purifier and flowed out of the cartridge.

[0015] The pre-processing system may further include a vial capping device configured to separate a vial cap from at least one of the first and second vials placed on a vial shaker, or to attach a vial to at least one of the first and second vials.

[0016] The vial capping device may include a vial cap gripper having a pair of fingers that can move toward each other to grasp a vial cap and move toward each other to release a vial cap; a pair of vial grip fingers that can move toward each other to grasp a vial and move toward each other to release a vial; and a cap gripper transfer actuator that moves the vial cap gripper vertically.

[0017] The cartridge may contain beads that adsorb impurities.

[0018] The pretreatment system may further include a reservoir rotating device that is operatively connected to at least one reservoir placed in the drying chamber and configured to rotate the at least one reservoir.

[0019] The reservoir processing unit may be further configured to inject gas into at least one reservoir.

[0020] The pretreatment system may further include a hot air source that supplies hot air to the drying chamber.

[0021] The reservoir processing unit may be configured to spray the solvent toward the wall of at least one reservoir.

[0022] The pretreatment system may further include a level sensor configured to measure the water level of the solution in at least one reservoir.

[0023] The pretreatment system may further include a controller configured to communicate with the pipetting device, vial shaker, drying chamber, and reservoir processing unit, and to control the operation of the pipetting device, vial shaker, drying chamber, and reservoir processing unit.

[0024] The pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient according to another embodiment of the present invention includes the steps of connecting at least one reservoir placed in a drying chamber to the lower end of at least one cartridge placed in a cartridge station, injecting a sample into the at least one cartridge with a pipetting device, injecting a standard sample into the at least one cartridge with the pipetting device, eluting the sample and the standard sample in the at least one cartridge into at least one reservoir, separating at least one reservoir placed in the drying chamber from the at least one cartridge, and drying the solution in the at least one reservoir in the drying chamber.

[0025] The cartridge may contain beads that adsorb impurities.

[0026] The pretreatment method may further include a step of collecting a sample with a pipetting device before the step of injecting the sample into the at least one cartridge. The step of collecting a sample with a pipetting device may include pressing the upper end of a pipette piston that is movable relative to the pipette module body in a vertical direction two to three times.

[0027] The pretreatment method may further include the steps of connecting a cartridge purifying device to the upper end of at least one cartridge and injecting a solvent into at least one cartridge with the cartridge purifying device before the step of connecting at least one reservoir placed in the drying chamber to the lower end of at least one cartridge placed in the cartridge station.

[0028] The pretreatment method may further include a step of connecting a conditioning drain unit to the lower end of at least one cartridge before the step of injecting a solvent into at least one cartridge with the cartridge purifying device.

[0029] The step of eluting the sample and standard sample in at least one cartridge into at least one reservoir may include the steps of connecting a cartridge purifier to the upper end of at least one cartridge and injecting a solvent into at least one cartridge using the cartridge purifier.

[0030] The aforementioned pretreatment method may further include the step of injecting gas into at least one cartridge using a cartridge purification device.

[0031] The step of drying the solution in at least one reservoir in the drying chamber may be performed by blowing hot air into the drying chamber.

[0032] The step of drying the solution in at least one reservoir in a drying chamber may include the step of rotating the at least one reservoir with a reservoir rotating device operatively coupled to the reservoir.

[0033] The step of drying the solution in at least one reservoir in a drying chamber may further include the steps of connecting a reservoir processing unit to at least one reservoir and spraying a solvent into at least one reservoir with the reservoir processing unit.

[0034] The step of drying the solution in at least one reservoir in a drying chamber may further include the step of injecting gas into at least one reservoir in a reservoir processing unit.

[0035] In one embodiment, the controller may further include a step of ending the drying step in response to the water level of the solution in at least one reservoir reaching a set water level.

[0036] In another embodiment, the controller may further include a step of terminating the drying step in response to the drying step having been performed for a set amount of time. [Effects of the Invention]

[0037] According to the present invention, it is possible to automate long and complex sample preparation processes and prevent differences in analytical results depending on the skill level of the analyst.

[0038] Furthermore, automating the pre-processing steps can shorten the pre-processing time and improve the efficiency of the analysis.

[0039] Further effects that may be obtained or anticipated by the embodiments of the present invention will be disclosed directly or implicitly in the detailed description of the embodiments. In other words, the various effects that may be anticipated by the embodiments of the present invention will be disclosed in the detailed description below.

[0040] The embodiments described herein will be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the attached drawings, where similar reference numerals refer to the same or functionally similar elements. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0041] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of a pretreatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic perspective view showing the components of a pretreatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention, arranged within a housing. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of a pipetting device and a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view of a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a side view of a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of a vial shaker according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of a cartridge station according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of a cartridge purification unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9]This is a perspective view of the first nozzle according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a plan view of a cartridge purification unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 10. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view of a sample concentration apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram showing the operation of a sample concentration apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, where the cartridge is coupled to the cartridge purification unit and the conditioning drain unit. [Figure 14] This is a schematic diagram showing the operation of a sample concentration apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, where the reservoir processing unit, the second nozzle, and the drying chamber are shown coupled together. [Figure 15] This is a cross-sectional view along line BB in Figure 14. [Figure 16] The process of concentrating the eluate according to the embodiments of the present invention is schematically shown. [Figure 17] This is a schematic diagram showing the operation of a sample concentration apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, where the drying chamber is shown in a raised state. [Figure 18] This is a plan view of a drying chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] This is a cross-sectional view along the CC line in Figure 18. [Figure 20] This is a perspective view showing the bottom of a drying chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] This is a flowchart of a pretreatment method according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0042] It should be understood that the drawings referenced above are not necessarily shown to scale and are intended to present somewhat simplified representations of various preferred features illustrating the fundamental principles of this disclosure. For example, certain design features of this disclosure, including specific dimensions, orientations, locations, and shapes, will be determined in part by the specific intended application and usage environment.

[0043] The terms used herein are solely for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “including” and / or “including,” as used herein, identify the presence of the mentioned features, integers, stages, operations, components and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, stages, operations, components and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the terms “and / or” include any one or all combinations of the items listed in relation to them.

[0044] In addition, it is understood that the methods described below, or one or more of these embodiments, can be performed by at least one controller. The term “controller” may refer to a hardware device including memory and a processor. The memory is configured to store program instructions, and the processor is specifically programmed to execute program instructions to perform one or more processes as described further below. A controller can control the operation of a unit, module, component, device, or similar, as described herein. It is also understood that the methods described below can be performed by a device including a controller together with one or more other components, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0045] Furthermore, the controllers of this disclosure can be implemented as non-temporary computer-readable recording media containing executable program instructions executed by a processor. Examples of computer-readable recording media include, but are not limited to, ROM, RAM, compact disk (CD)ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash drive, smart card, and optical data storage device. Computer-readable recording media can also store and execute program instructions distributed across a computer network, for example, in a telematics server or controller area network (CAN).

[0046] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0047] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a pretreatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the components of the pretreatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention arranged within a housing.

[0048] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the pretreatment system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided in a housing 12, and all steps of the pretreatment method can be performed automatically within the housing 10 without user intervention. A first door 14 is provided at the top of the housing 10, and a user can open the first door 14 to access components provided at the top of the pretreatment system 10 (for example, components located on a workbench 18). Similarly, a second door 16 is provided at the bottom of the housing 10, and a user can open the second door 16 to access components provided at the bottom of the pretreatment system 10 (for example, components located below the workbench 18). The first and second doors 14 and 16 may be closed when the pretreatment method is being performed.

[0049] The pretreatment system 10 may include a controller 11 for controlling the pretreatment system 10 to perform a pretreatment method. The controller 11 is communicatively connected to the pretreatment system 10 and can control the operation of the pretreatment system 10. The controller 11 may be located inside or outside the housing 12 to remotely control the pretreatment system 10. The controller 11 can be implemented with one or more processors that operate according to a set program, and the memory of the controller 11 stores program instructions programmed to perform each step of the pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients in waste according to embodiments of the present invention via the one or more processors. The pretreatment system 10 may further include a user interface 13 that provides an input interface for operating the pretreatment system 10 and inputting process conditions, and an output interface for outputting the operating status of the pretreatment system 10, etc.

[0050] As shown in Figure 2, the pretreatment system 10 includes a liquid supply device provided above the workbench 18 and a sample concentration device 210 provided below the workbench 18.

[0051] The liquid supply device is configured to inject samples, standard samples, solvents, and / or gases into a cartridge 100 (see Figure 7). For this purpose, the liquid supply device includes a pipetting device transfer device 20, a pipetting device 30, a vial capping device 50, a pipette tip tray 70, a vial shaker 80, a cartridge station 90, and a cartridge purification device 110.

[0052] As shown in Figure 2, the pipetting device transfer device 20 is configured to transfer the pipetting device 30 in a first direction X. The pipetting device transfer device 20 includes a pair of support frames 24 mounted on both sides of the workbench 18 in the first direction X. Each support frame 24 extends upward in a vertical direction Z perpendicular to the first direction X, so as to ensure that the pipetting device 30 is transferred without colliding with other parts.

[0053] The pipetting device transfer device 20 further includes a pipetting device transfer rail 22. The pipetting device transfer rail 22 extends in a first direction X and is mounted on the upper part of a pair of support frames 24. That is, one end of the pipetting device transfer rail 22 is mounted on the upper part of a support frame 24 mounted on one side of the workbench 18, and the other end of the pipetting device transfer rail 22 is mounted on the upper part of a support frame 24 mounted on the other side of the workbench 18.

[0054] The pipetting device transfer device 20 further includes a pipetting device transfer actuator 26. The pipetting device transfer actuator 26 is connected to the pipetting device 30 and, under the control of the controller 11, transfers the pipetting device 30 along the pipetting device transfer rail 22 in a first direction X. Here, it is illustrated that the pipetting device transfer actuator 26 is mounted on one end of the pipetting device transfer rail 22, but the mounting position of the pipetting device transfer actuator 26 is not limited to this. The pipetting device transfer actuator 26 can be mounted in a position suitable for transferring the pipetting device 30 along the pipetting device transfer rail 22 in a first direction X.

[0055] The pipetting device 30 is configured to inject a sample or standard sample into the cartridge 100 under the control of the controller 11, and the vial capping device 50 is configured to attach a vial cap 68 to a vial 66 or detach a vial cap 68 from a vial 66 under the control of the controller 11. The pipetting device 30 and the vial capping device 50 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 3 to 5.

[0056] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a pipetting device and a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 is a perspective view of a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 5 is a side view of a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the pipetting apparatus 30 is configured to take a sample or standard sample from a vial 66 placed on a vial shaker 80 and inject the taken sample or standard sample into a cartridge 100 placed on a cartridge station 90. The pipetting apparatus 30 includes a pipette guide frame 32, a pipette slider 34, a pipette vertical movement actuator 36, a pipette module 38, and a pipette push actuator 48.

[0058] The pipette guide frame 32 is slidably mounted on the pipetting device transfer rail 22 and connected to the pipetting device transfer actuator 26, allowing it to move along the pipetting device transfer rail 22 in a first direction X. The pipette guide frame 32 extends in the vertical direction Z.

[0059] The pipette slider 34 is slidably mounted on the pipette guide frame 32. Since the pipette guide frame 32 extends in the vertical direction Z, the pipette slider 34 is movable in the vertical direction Z along the pipette guide frame 32.

[0060] The pipette vertical movement actuator 36 is connected to the pipette slider 34 and is configured to move the pipette slider 34 vertically in the Z direction along the pipette guide frame 32 under the control of the controller 11.

[0061] The pipette module 38 is mounted on the pipette slider 34 and is movable vertically in the Z direction together with the pipette slider 34. Since the pipette slider 34 is mounted on the pipette guide frame 32 and is movable in a first direction X along the pipetting device transfer rail 22 together with the pipette guide frame 32, the pipette module 38 can move in the first direction X along the pipetting device transfer rail 22 and is movable vertically in the Z direction along the pipette guide frame 32. As a result, the pipette module 38 can move in the first direction X along the pipetting device transfer rail 22 to position itself on a pipette tip tray 70, vial shaker 80, or cartridge station 90 provided on the workbench 18, and then move vertically in the Z direction along the pipette guide frame 32 to perform a predetermined operation. More specifically, the pipette module 38 can descend from a position corresponding to the pipette tip tray 70 to attach the pipette tip 46, descend from a position corresponding to the vial shaker 80 to collect a sample or standard sample from the vial 66, and descend from a position corresponding to the cartridge station 90 to inject the collected sample or standard sample into the cartridge 100.

[0062] The pipette module 38 includes a pipette module body 40, a pipette piston 42, and a mounting end 44. The pipette module body 40 is fixedly mounted on the pipette slider 34, and the pipette piston 42 can move vertically in the Z direction relative to the pipette module body 40. The pipette piston 42 is elastically mounted on the pipette module body 40. The mounting end 44 is formed at the lower end of the pipette piston 42, and a pipette tip 46 can be mounted on the mounting end 44. When the pipette slider 34 moves downward with the pipette module 38 positioned to correspond to the pipette tip tray 70, the mounting end 44 of the pipette piston 42 is inserted into one of the pipette tips 46 placed on the pipette tip tray 70, and the pipette tip 46 is mounted on the mounting end 44. The pipette slider 34 then rises to its original position with the pipette tip 46 mounted on the mounting end 44.

[0063] The pipette push actuator 48 is located above the pipette piston 42 and is mounted on the pipette slider 34 so as to be vertically movable. When the pipette push actuator 48 moves downward under the control of the controller 11 and pushes the upper end of the pipette piston 42, the pipette piston 42 moves downward relative to the pipette module body 40 and pushes the pipette tip 46 mounted on the mounting end 44 downward. If the pipette tip 46 contains solution, the mounting end 44 pushes the pipette tip 46 downward and drains the solution contained in the pipette tip 46. When the pipette push actuator 48 moves upward under the control of the controller 11 and the force pushing the pipette piston 42 is released, the pipette piston 42, which is elastically mounted on the pipette module body 40, moves upward and pulls the pipette tip 46 mounted on the mounting end 44 upward. To collect a sample or standard sample from a vial 66 using a pipette tip 46, the pipette slider 34 moves downward so that the lower end of the pipette tip 46 is immersed in the solution in the vial 66. In this state, when the upper end of the pipette piston 42 is pushed and released via the pipette push actuator 48, the pipette tip 46 attached to the mounting end 44 is pushed downward and then pulled upward, collecting the sample or standard sample from the vial 66.

[0064] On the other hand, while the example shows two pipette modules 38 and two pipette push actuators 48 mounted on the pipette slider 34, the number of pipette modules 38 and pipette push actuators 48 is not limited to two each. The number of pipette modules 38 and the number of pipette push actuators 48 can be the same, and one or more pipette modules 38 can be provided.

[0065] The vial capping device 50 is configured to separate a vial cap 68 from a vial 66 placed on a vial shaker 80, or to attach a vial cap 68 to a vial 66. The vial capping device 50 may also be further configured to place a vial 66 on the vial shaker 80 or to remove a vial 66 from the vial shaker 80. The vial capping device 50 can be mounted on a pipette guide frame 32 or on a pipette slider 34 and moved along a pipetting device transfer rail 22 in a first direction X. Alternatively, the vial capping device 50 may be provided in a position corresponding to the vial shaker 80.

[0066] The vial capping device 50 may include a vial capping frame 52, a vial capping device transfer actuator 54, a cap gripper transfer actuator 56, a vial grip finger 58, a vial cap gripper 60, a vial grip actuator 62, and a cap gripper actuator 64.

[0067] The vial capping device transfer actuator 54 is mounted on the pipette guide frame 32 or pipette slider 34 and can move along the pipetting device transfer rail 22 in a first direction X. The vial capping device transfer actuator 54 is positioned differently from the pipette module 38 in the first direction X so that when the vial capping device transfer actuator 54 and the pipette module 38 move relative to each other, they do not collide. The vial capping device transfer actuator 54 moves the vial capping frame 52 in the vertical direction Z under the control of the controller 11.

[0068] The vial capping frame 52 is connected to the vial capping device transfer actuator 54 and is movable in the vertical direction Z. The cap gripper transfer actuator 56, vial grip finger 58, vial cap gripper 60, vial grip actuator 62, and cap gripper actuator 64 are mounted on the vial capping frame 52 and are movable together with the vial capping frame 52 in the vertical direction Z. The vial capping frame 52 includes a vertical surface extending in the vertical direction Z and a horizontal surface extending from the lower end of the vertical surface in a first direction X and a second direction Y perpendicular to the vertical direction Z, and the vertical surface and the horizontal surface can be formed integrally.

[0069] The cap gripper transfer actuator 56 is mounted on the vertical surface, and a cap gripper actuator 64 and a vial cap gripper 60 are mounted on its lower end. The cap gripper transfer actuator 56 moves the cap gripper actuator 64 and the vial cap gripper 60 in the vertical direction Z under the control of the controller 11.

[0070] The cap gripper actuator 64 is mounted on the lower end of the cap gripper transfer actuator 56 and is movable vertically in the Z direction by the cap gripper transfer actuator 56. The cap gripper actuator 64 can be controlled by the controller 11 to move the pair of fingers of the vial cap gripper 60 toward each other to grip the vial cap 68, or to move the pair of fingers of the vial cap gripper 60 toward each other to release the vial cap 68.

[0071] The vial cap gripper 60 is mounted on the lower end of the cap gripper actuator 64 and includes a pair of fingers. The pair of fingers of the vial cap gripper 60 are connected to the cap gripper actuator 64 and can move toward each other to grasp the vial cap 68 or move toward each other to release the vial cap 68. When the vial cap gripper 60 is grasping the vial cap 68, the cap gripper transfer actuator 56 can move the vial cap gripper 60 downward to couple the vial cap 68 to the vial 66, or move the vial cap gripper 60 upward to separate the vial cap 68 from the vial 66.

[0072] The vial grip actuator 62 is mounted on the horizontal surface of the vial capping frame 52 and extends vertically in the Z direction to a position lower than the vial cap gripper 60. A pair of vial grip fingers 58 are attached to the lower end of the vial grip actuator 62, and the vial grip actuator 62 can move the pair of vial grip fingers 58 toward each other to grasp the vial 66, or move the pair of vial grip fingers 58 toward each other to release the vial 66, under the control of the controller 11.

[0073] A pair of vial grip fingers 58 are mounted on the lower end of the vial grip actuator 62 and connected to the vial grip actuator 62, allowing them to move toward each other to grasp a vial 66 or move away from each other to release the vial 66. The pair of vial grip fingers 58 extend toward the central axis of the vial cap 68, so that a vial 66 grasped by the pair of vial grip fingers 58 can be positioned coaxially with a vial cap 68 grasped by a pair of fingers of the vial cap gripper 60.

[0074] Referring again to Figure 2, the pipette tip tray 70, vial shaker 80, and cartridge station 90 are arranged on the workbench 18 at a distance from each other. The pipette tip tray 70, vial shaker 80, and cartridge station 90 are arranged in the order of pipette tip tray 70, vial shaker 80, and cartridge station 90 in accordance with the operating sequence of the pipetting device 30, but the arrangement order of the pipette tip tray 70, vial shaker 80, and cartridge station 90 is not limited to this. In addition, the pipette tip tray 70, vial shaker 80, and cartridge station 90 are each configured to be movable in the second direction Y.

[0075] As shown in Figure 2, the pipette tip tray 70 is positioned on one side of the workbench 18 in a first direction X. The pipette tip tray 70 holds at least one unused pipette tip 46 and is movable in a second direction Y by the pipette tip tray actuator 72. For example, when a pipette tip 46 is to be attached to the mounting end 44 of the pipette module 38, the pipette tip tray actuator 72 moves the pipette tip tray 70 in the second direction Y to a position corresponding to the movement path of the pipette module 38, under the control of the controller 11. Conversely, when the pipette tip 46 is not needed, the pipette tip tray actuator 72 moves the pipette tip tray 70 to a standby position in the second direction Y, under the control of the controller 11.

[0076] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a vial shaker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] As shown in Figures 2 and 6, the vial shaker 80 is positioned in the middle of the workbench 18 in a first direction X. The vial shaker 80 places on at least one first vial 66a containing the sample to be analyzed and one second vial 66b containing a standard sample whose properties, such as components and concentration, are known, and shakes the placed first and second vials 66a and 66b to minimize the positional deviation of the characteristics of the sample and the standard sample.

[0078] As shown in Figure 6, the vial shaker 80 includes a shaker plate 82, a vial tray 84, a shaker transfer actuator 86, a shaking actuator 88, and a tray fixing knob 89.

[0079] The shaker plate 82 may be a roughly rectangular plate shape. One side of the shaker plate 82 is connected to the shaker transfer actuator 86 and is movable in the second direction Y, and the lower side of the shaker plate 82 is connected to the shaking actuator 88 and can repeatedly shake along a preset trajectory.

[0080] The vial tray 84 can be detachably coupled to the upper surface of the shaker plate 82. The vial tray 84 is configured to hold the first and second vials 66a and 66b. The vial tray 84 is coupled to the vial plate 82 and is movable together with the vial plate 82 in a second direction Y, and can be repeatedly shaken along a preset trajectory. This causes the first and second vials 66a and 66b, which are placed in the vial tray 84, to also repeatedly shake along the preset trajectory, maintaining uniform characteristics of the sample and standard sample within the first and second vials 66a and 66b. Figure 6 illustrates that six first vials 66a and one second vial 66b are provided, but the number of first and second vials 66a and 66b is not limited thereto.

[0081] The shaker transfer actuator 86 is connected to one side of the shaker plate 82 and can move the shaker plate 82 in the second direction Y under the control of the controller 11. For example, when taking a sample from the first vial 66a or a standard sample from the second vial 66b, the shaker transfer actuator 86 moves the shaker plate 82 in the second direction Y to a position corresponding to the movement path of the pipette module 38 under the control of the controller 11. Conversely, when taking a sample or standard sample is not required, the shaker transfer actuator 86 moves the shaker plate 82 to a standby position in the second direction Y under the control of the controller 11.

[0082] The shaking actuator 88 is connected to the underside of the shaker plate 82 and can repeatedly shake the shaker plate 82 along a preset trajectory under the control of the controller 11. This ensures that the characteristics of the sample and standard sample in the first and second vials 66a and 66b placed in the vial tray 84 are uniformly maintained. The shaking actuator 68 can continuously shake the shaker plate 82 until a sample is taken from the first vial 66a or a standard sample is taken from the second vial 66b.

[0083] The tray fixing knob 89 is used to fix the vial tray 84 to the shaker plate 82 or to separate the vial tray 84 from the shaker plate 82. Turning the tray fixing knob 89 in one direction allows the vial tray 84 to be coupled to the vial plate 82, and turning the tray fixing knob 89 in the opposite direction allows the vial tray 84 to be separated from the vial plate 82. The type of tray fixing knob 89 is not particularly limited, and one type of tray fixing knob 89 known to those skilled in the art can be used.

[0084] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a cartridge station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] As shown in Figures 2 and 7, the cartridge station 90 is positioned on the other side of the workbench 18 in the first direction X. At least one cartridge 100 is placed in the cartridge station 90. The cartridge 100 may be fixed to the cartridge station 90 or detachably fixed.

[0086] As shown in Figure 7, the cartridge station 90 may include a cartridge station actuator 94, a cartridge hold shutter 96, and a cartridge hold hole 98.

[0087] The cartridge hold shutter 96 is a roughly rectangular plate or block in shape, and at least one cartridge hold hole 98 is formed in the cartridge hold shutter 96. The number of cartridge hold holes 98 is the same as the number of cartridges 100. The cartridges 100 extend downward through the corresponding cartridge hold holes 98, and the upper end of the cartridges 100 can be fixed to the cartridge hold shutter 96.

[0088] The cartridge station actuator 94 is connected to one side of the cartridge hold shutter 96 and can move the cartridge hold shutter 96 in a second direction Y under the control of the controller 11. For example, when injecting a sample, standard sample, or solvent into the cartridge 100, the cartridge station actuator 94 moves the cartridge hold shutter 96 in a second direction Y over the workbench through-hole 92 formed in the workbench 18 under the control of the controller 11. Conversely, when work with the cartridge 100 is not required, the cartridge station actuator 94 moves the cartridge hold shutter 96 to a standby position in the second direction Y under the control of the controller 11.

[0089] Referring to Figures 9 and 11, the cartridge 100 is hollow and cylindrical. A flange is formed at the upper end of the cartridge 100 and is used to secure the cartridge 100 to the cartridge hold shutter 96. The upper surface of the cartridge 100 is open to form a cartridge mounting hole 104, and the lower end of the cartridge 100 is provided as a smaller diameter cartridge end 102, which also opens vertically in the Z direction. The diameter of the opening of the cartridge end 102 is small enough that the sample, standard sample, or solvent in the cartridge 100 elutes through the cartridge end 102. The cartridge 100 contains beads 106 for removing impurities that would interfere with the extraction of the active ingredient. Typically, the beads 106 separate impurities from the active ingredient (e.g., dioxin) and adsorb the impurities, preventing them from passing through the cartridge end 102.

[0090] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a cartridge purification unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 9 is a perspective view of a first nozzle according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 10 is a plan view of a cartridge purification unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 10.

[0091] As shown in Figures 1 and 8 to 11, the cartridge purification device 110 may be configured to remove impurities from the cartridge 100 by connecting to the upper end of the cartridge 100 fixed to the cartridge station 90 and supplying a solvent or gas into the cartridge 100. The cartridge purification device 110 may also supply a solvent or gas into the cartridge 100 containing the sample and / or standard sample so that the sample and / or standard sample in the cartridge 100 can be eluted into the reservoir 171 (see Figure 15). The cartridge purification device 110 includes a purification device transfer rail 112, a purification device transfer actuator 113, a purification device sliding frame 114, a nozzle transfer actuator 116, a nozzle mounting frame 118, and a first nozzle 120. The cartridge purification device 110 further includes a nozzle waiting block 130.

[0092] The purification device transfer rail 112 extends in a first direction X on the workbench 18. Typically, a pair of frames spaced apart in the first direction X are mounted on the workbench 18, and the purification device transfer rail 112 is mounted on the top of the pair of frames and positioned to extend in the first direction X. The purification device transfer rail 112 can extend at least between the nozzle waiting block 130 and the cartridge station 90 so that the first nozzle 120 remains in the nozzle waiting block 130 or the cartridge station 90.

[0093] The purification device transfer actuator 113 is mounted on one end of the purification device transfer rail 112 and moves the purification device sliding frame 114 along the purification device transfer rail 112 in a first direction X.

[0094] The purification device sliding frame 114 is movably mounted on the purification device transfer rail 112 and connected to the purification device transfer actuator 113, and is movable along the purification device transfer rail 112 in a first direction X. In other words, the purification device sliding frame 114 is movable along the purification device transfer rail 112 in a first direction X, at least between the nozzle waiting block 130 and the cartridge station 90.

[0095] The nozzle mounting frame 118 is mounted on the refining apparatus sliding frame 114 so as to be movable in the vertical Z direction and is connected to the nozzle transfer actuator 116. The nozzle transfer actuator 116 moves the nozzle mounting frame 118 in the vertical Z direction.

[0096] The first nozzle 120 is mounted on the nozzle mounting frame 118 and is movable vertically in the Z direction together with the nozzle mounting frame 118. That is, the first nozzle 120 is moved in the first direction X together with the purification device sliding frame 114 by the purification device transfer actuator 113 and is movable vertically in the Z direction together with the nozzle mounting frame 118 by the nozzle transfer actuator 116. As a result, the first nozzle 120 may be moved to the top of the nozzle waiting block 130 or cartridge station 90 by the purification device transfer actuator 113, and may descend vertically in the Z direction to connect with the cartridge 100 placed on the nozzle waiting block 132 or cartridge station 90, or it may rise vertically in the Z direction to separate from the cartridge 100 placed on the nozzle waiting block 132 or cartridge station 90. As shown in Figure 9, the first nozzle 120 includes a solvent supply line 122, a nozzle body 124, a nozzle passage 125, a gas supply unit 126, and a cartridge docking unit 128.

[0097] The nozzle body 124 communicates with a solvent supply source via a solvent supply line 122. The nozzle body 124 also has a nozzle passage 125 extending downwards. This allows the solvent supplied from the solvent supply source to the nozzle body 124 via the solvent supply line 122 to be injected into the cartridge 100 via the nozzle passage 125, washing away impurities within the cartridge 100. The nozzle body 124, the solvent supply line 122, or the nozzle passage 125 can be fitted with means for pressurizing the solvent to inject it, and the amount or rate of the injected solvent can be adjusted by control of the controller 11. The solvent may be a substance that can remove impurities that interfere with the detection of the active ingredient (e.g., dioxins), such as methanol or toluene.

[0098] A gas supply unit 126 is provided on one side of the nozzle body 124, and the nozzle body 124 is connected to a gas supply source via the gas supply unit 126. A cartridge docking unit 128 is provided on the lower side of the nozzle body 124. As a result, a gas such as nitrogen flows from the gas supply source to the nozzle body 124 via the gas supply unit 126 and can be injected into the cartridge 100 via the cartridge docking unit 128. The cartridge docking unit 128 can be inserted into the cartridge 100 via the cartridge mounting hole 104. A sealing member 129 may be provided on the cartridge docking unit 128 so that the cartridge 100 coupled with the first nozzle 120 is sealed.

[0099] In this specification, the cartridge purification device 110 is illustrated as including two first nozzles 120, but the number of first nozzles 120 is not limited to two. If necessary, the cartridge purification device 110 may include one or more first nozzles 120.

[0100] On the other hand, a gas valve 136 is provided on the purification apparatus transfer rail 112, which can selectively connect or disconnect the gas supply source and the gas supply unit 126.

[0101] The nozzle standby block 130 is provided corresponding to one side of the purification apparatus transfer rail 112, and when the purification step of the cartridge 100 is not being performed, the first nozzle 120 can remain in standby while coupled with the nozzle standby block 130.

[0102] The nozzle standby block 130 has a nozzle standby hole 132 formed in the vertical direction Z, and the first nozzle 120 can be inserted into the nozzle standby hole 132. A nozzle drain port 134 is provided at the bottom of the nozzle standby hole 132, and any solvent leaking from the first nozzle 120 inserted into the nozzle standby hole 132 can be discharged through the nozzle drain port 134.

[0103] The sample concentration apparatus will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 12 to 20.

[0104] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a sample concentration apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the operation of the sample concentration apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, where the cartridge is coupled to the cartridge purification unit and the conditioning drain unit; Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing the operation of the sample concentration apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, where the reservoir processing unit, the second nozzle, and the drying chamber are coupled to each other; Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view along line BB in Figure 14; Figure 16 schematically shows the process of concentrating the eluate according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing the operation of the sample concentration apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, where the drying chamber is raised; Figure 18 is a plan view of the drying chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view along line CC in Figure 18; Figure 20 is a perspective view showing the bottom of the drying chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] As shown in Figures 12 to 20, the sample concentration device 210 is configured to selectively connect to the bottom of the cartridge 100 placed in the cartridge station 90 to receive the sample and / or standard sample from the cartridge 100, and to concentrate the sample and / or standard sample by drying it. The sample concentration device 210 is also configured to selectively connect to the bottom of the cartridge 100 placed in the cartridge station 90 to receive the solvent from which the cartridge 100 has been purified, and to discharge the solvent. For this purpose, the sample concentration device 210 includes a conditioning drain unit 140, a reservoir processing unit 150, a drying chamber 170, and a reservoir drain unit 190.

[0106] As shown in Figures 12 to 15 and Figure 17, the conditioning drain unit 140 is mounted on the cartridge station 90 and is connected to the lower part of the cartridge 100, which is connected to the first nozzle 120, and is configured to receive the solvent that has been injected into the cartridge 100 from the first nozzle 120 and purified the cartridge 100, and to discharge the solvent. The conditioning drain unit 140 includes a conditioning drain body 141, a cartridge drain port 142, a first drain duct 144, and a conditioning drain unit moving actuator 146.

[0107] The cartridge drain port 142 is formed vertically in the Z direction on the upper surface of the conditioning drain body 141. The lower end of the cartridge 100 is inserted into the cartridge drain port 142. Therefore, the solvent sprayed into the cartridge 100 by the first nozzle 120 coupled to the upper part of the cartridge 100 flows into the cartridge drain port 142 via the cartridge end 102.

[0108] The first drain duct 144 is in communication with the cartridge drain port 142, and the solvent in the cartridge drain port 142 is discharged to the outside of the sample concentration device 210 via the first drain duct 144.

[0109] The conditioning drain unit moving actuator 146 is connected to the conditioning drain body 141 and can move the conditioning drain unit 140 in the vertical direction Z or the second direction Y. For example, when the purification step is performed, the first nozzle 120 of the cartridge purification device 110 moves to the top of the cartridge station 90, moves downward in the vertical direction Z, and connects to the upper end of the cartridge 100 placed on the cartridge station 90. The conditioning drain unit moving actuator 146 also moves the conditioning drain body 141 forward in the second direction Y to position it below the cartridge 100, and thereafter moves the conditioning drain body 141 upward in the vertical direction Z to connect the lower end of the cartridge 100 to the cartridge drain port 142. In this state, the second nozzle 120 injects the solvent and / or gas into the cartridge 100 to advance the purification step of the cartridge 100. The solvent purified in the cartridge 100 flows through the cartridge end 102 to the cartridge drain port 142, and then is discharged to the outside through the first drain duct 144.

[0110] Once the purification stage is complete, the conditioning drain unit moving actuator 146 moves the conditioning drain body 141 downward in the vertical direction Z to separate the lower end of the cartridge 100 from the cartridge drain port 142, and thereafter moves the conditioning drain body 141 backward in the second direction Y so that the conditioning drain unit 140 does not interfere with the operation of other parts of the sample concentration device 210.

[0111] As shown in Figures 12 to 17, the reservoir processing unit 150 is coupled to the upper end of the reservoir 171, which is placed in the drying chamber 170, during the concentration stage, and injects the solvent and gas into the reservoir 171. The reservoir processing unit 150 is also coupled to the upper part of the reservoir drain unit 190 after or before injecting the solvent and gas. The reservoir processing unit 150 includes a processing unit body 151, a processing unit movement actuator 152, a second drain duct 154, and a second nozzle 160.

[0112] The processing unit movement actuator 152 is connected to the processing unit body 151 and moves the processing unit body 151 in the second direction Y. For example, the processing unit movement actuator 152 moves the processing unit body 151 forward in the second direction Y to connect with the reservoir 171 installed in the drying chamber 170, and moves the processing unit body 151 backward in the second direction Y to connect with the reservoir drain unit 190.

[0113] The second drain duct 154 is connected to the processing unit body 151, and the solvent that evaporates during the drying / concentration process of the solution is discharged to the outside of the sample concentration device 210 via the second drain duct 154.

[0114] The second nozzle 160 is mounted on the upper surface of the processing unit body 151, and the lower part of the second nozzle 160 extends into the processing unit body 151. The lower surface of the processing unit body 151 is open and selectively closed by the reservoir drain unit 190 to form a selectively closed space within the processing unit body 151. The lower part of the second nozzle 160 can be inserted into the reservoir 171 placed in the drying chamber 170 or positioned in the closed space within the processing unit body 151.

[0115] The second nozzle 160 includes a solvent injection line 162 for injecting a solvent and a gas injection line 164 for injecting a gas. The solvent injection line 162 communicates with a solvent supply source, and the solvent from the solvent supply source can be injected through the solvent injection line 162. As shown in Figure 16, the lower end of the solvent injection line 162 is curved toward the wall of the reservoir 171 when the second nozzle 160 is coupled to the reservoir 171, so that the solvent from the solvent supply source can be injected toward the wall of the reservoir 171. As a result, any active ingredients adhering to the wall of the reservoir 171 are washed away by the solvent injected toward the wall, thereby allowing for accurate measurement of the amount of active ingredients. The solvent may be methanol, toluene, or the like.

[0116] The gas injection line 164 communicates with a gas supply source, and gas from the gas supply source can be injected through the gas injection line 164. The gas can help dry the solvent, increase the concentration of the solution, and increase the concentration rate. As shown in Figure 16, the lower end of the gas injection line 164 curves toward the wall of the reservoir 171, with the second nozzle 160 coupled to the reservoir 171, so that gas from the gas supply source can be injected toward the wall of the reservoir 171. The gas may be nitrogen.

[0117] The second nozzle 160 can spray a preset amount of solvent at a preset speed under the control of the controller 11. The number of second nozzles 160 may be the same as the number of reservoirs 171 installed in the drying chamber 170, but is not limited to this.

[0118] The drying chamber 170 is equipped with at least one reservoir 171, and the drying chamber 170 may be moved vertically in the Z direction to be coupled to or detached from the lower end of the cartridge station 90. When the drying chamber 170 is coupled to the lower end of the cartridge station 90, the upper end of the reservoir 171 mounted in the drying chamber 170 is coupled to the lower end of the cartridge 100 mounted in the cartridge station 90, allowing the sample and / or standard sample in the cartridge 100 to be eluted into the reservoir 171. Alternatively, the drying chamber 170 may be moved vertically in the Z direction to be coupled to or detached from the lower end of the reservoir processing unit 150. When the drying chamber 170 is coupled to the lower end of the reservoir processing unit 150, the upper end of the reservoir 171 mounted in the drying chamber 170 is coupled to the second nozzle 160, allowing the second nozzle 160 to inject solvent and gas into the reservoir 171.

[0119] Here, the reservoir 171 is hollow and cylindrical, as shown in Figures 15 and 16. The top surface of the reservoir 171 is open, and the lower end of the cartridge 100 or the lower end of the second nozzle 160 can be inserted into the reservoir 171 through the open top surface of the reservoir 171. A collection vial 173 is detachably coupled to the lower end of the reservoir 171 via a connector 172. The collection vial 173 communicates with the reservoir 171, allowing the sample and / or standard sample in the reservoir 171 to flow into the collection vial 173. Once the sample and / or standard sample is finally concentrated, the collection vial 173 is separated from the reservoir 171 to complete the pretreatment step. The solution in the collection vial 173 separated from the reservoir 171 can be analyzed by an analyzer.

[0120] The drying chamber 170 includes a drying chamber moving actuator 174, a drying chamber body 175, a hot air source 176, a reservoir holder 178, and a reservoir rotating device 180.

[0121] The drying chamber movement actuator 174 is connected to the drying chamber body 175 and can move the drying chamber body 175 vertically in the Z direction. For example, when the drying chamber movement actuator 174 moves the drying chamber body 175 upward in the Z direction, the upper end of the reservoir 171 mounted in the drying chamber 170 can be coupled to the cartridge 100 or the second nozzle 160 mounted in the cartridge station 90. When the drying chamber movement actuator 174 moves the drying chamber body 175 downward in the Z direction, the reservoir 171 mounted in the drying chamber 170 can be separated from the cartridge 100 or the second nozzle 160 mounted in the cartridge station 90.

[0122] The drying chamber body 175 is hollow. The reservoir 171 is located inside the drying chamber body 175 while mounted on the reservoir holder 178, and the upper end of the reservoir 171 protrudes upward through the upper surface of the drying chamber body 175. A reservoir rotating device 180 is mounted on the lower surface of the drying chamber body 175, and the reservoir holder 178 protrudes downward through the lower surface of the drying chamber body 175 and is connected to the reservoir rotating device 180, so that it can be rotated by the reservoir rotating device 180. As a result, the reservoir 171 and the collection vial 173 mounted on the reservoir holder 178 also rotate together with the reservoir holder 178.

[0123] A hot air source 176 is mounted on one side of the drying chamber body 175. The hot air source 176 can blow hot air 200 into the drying chamber body 175 to dry and concentrate the solutions in the reservoir 171 and the collection vial 173. In this specification, the hot air source is given as an example of a solution concentrating means for drying and concentrating the solutions in the reservoir 171 and the collection vial 173, but the solution concentrating means is not limited thereto, and suitable solution concentrating means known to those skilled in the art can be used as an alternative or additional means.

[0124] A level sensor 179 can be mounted on the drying chamber body 175. The level sensor 179 can detect the water level of the solution in the reservoir 171 and transmit a signal to the controller 11. The controller 11 can terminate the concentration of the solution when the water level of the solution in the reservoir 171 reaches a set level. Alternatively, the controller 11 may terminate the concentration of the solution when the time spent concentrating reaches a set time.

[0125] The reservoir rotating device 180 is configured to rotate the reservoir 171 in the drying chamber body 175 via a reservoir holder 178. The reservoir rotating device 180 may include a housing 181, a reservoir rotating motor 182, a drive gear 184, and at least one driven gear 186.

[0126] The housing 181 is coupled to the lower surface of the drying chamber body 175 and protects at least one driven gear 186 inside it.

[0127] The reservoir rotary motor 182 is configured to rotate its motor shaft, and a drive gear 184 is mounted on the motor shaft and rotates together with the motor shaft.

[0128] At least one driven gear 186 meshes with each other and is arranged in a row within the housing 181. The lower end of a reservoir holder 178 is coupled to the center of each driven gear 186, so that the reservoir holder 178 rotates together with each driven gear 186. A reservoir 171 (and a collection vial 173 coupled to the reservoir 171) is also mounted on the reservoir holder 178, so that the reservoir 171 is rotated by the driven gear 186, causing the solution in the reservoir 171 to dry and concentrate. One of the at least one driven gear 186 meshes with the drive gear 184 and receives rotational force from the reservoir rotating motor 182.

[0129] The reservoir drain unit 190 is located behind the drying chamber 170 and moves vertically in the Z direction to connect to the lower end of the reservoir processing body 151, thereby closing the reservoir processing body 151 or separating it from the reservoir processing body 151. The reservoir drain unit 190 includes a reservoir drain actuator 192 for moving the reservoir drain unit 190 vertically in the Z direction. When the reservoir drain actuator 192 raises the reservoir drain unit 190 vertically in the Z direction and connects it to the lower end of the reservoir processing body 151, the solvent leaking from the second nozzle 160 leaks into the closed space within the processing unit body 151 and is subsequently discharged outside the sample concentration device 210 via the second drain duct 154. In contrast, if the reservoir drain actuator 192 lowers the reservoir drain unit 190 in the vertical direction Z and separates it from the lower end of the reservoir processing body 151, the reservoir processing unit 150 can move in the second direction Y.

[0130] The following describes in detail a pretreatment method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] Figure 21 is a flowchart of a pretreatment method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0132] As shown in Figure 21, a pretreatment method according to another embodiment of the present invention is initiated by preparing a pretreatment system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The pretreatment system 10 includes a liquid supply device and a sample concentration device 210 located below the liquid supply device. The liquid supply device includes a pipetting device transfer device 20, a pipetting device 30, a vial capping device 50, a pipette tip tray 70, a vial shaker 80, a cartridge station 90, and a cartridge purification device 110. The sample concentration device 210 includes a conditioning drain unit 140, a reservoir processing unit 150, a drying chamber 170, and a reservoir drain unit 190.

[0133] Once the pre-treatment system 10 is prepared, the controller 11 operates the pre-treatment system 10. More specifically, the controller 11 controls the cartridge purification device 110 to connect the first nozzle 120 to the upper end of the cartridge 100 placed on the cartridge station 90 (S300). That is, the first nozzle 120 moves onto the cartridge station 90 by the purification device transfer actuator 113, and thereafter descends vertically in the Z direction by the nozzle transfer actuator 116 to connect to the upper end of the cartridge 100.

[0134] Furthermore, the controller 11 controls the conditioning drain unit 140 to connect it to the lower end of the cartridge 100 (S310). That is, as shown in Figure 13, the conditioning drain unit 140 moves forward in the second direction Y by the conditioning drain unit movement actuator 146, and then rises again in the vertical direction Z to connect the lower end of the cartridge 100 to the cartridge drain port 142. In this state, the reservoir processing unit 150 is located at the rear in the second direction Y, and the reservoir drain unit 190 rises in the vertical direction Z to connect to the reservoir processing unit 150. In other words, the reservoir processing unit 150 is in a standby state.

[0135] Here, steps S300 and S310 are not limited to the order illustrated in Figure 21. In other words, step S300 may be performed after step S310, or steps S300 and S310 may be performed simultaneously.

[0136] When the first nozzle 120 is connected to the upper end of the cartridge 100 and the conditioning drain unit 140 is connected to the lower end of the cartridge 100, the controller 11 injects solvent into the cartridge 100 via the first nozzle 120 (S320). In other words, the purification step of the cartridge 100 is performed. More specifically, by injecting solvent into the cartridge 100 via the first nozzle 120, impurities and other contaminants in the cartridge 100 are removed and the beads 106 inside the cartridge 100 are immersed. The solvent from which impurities have been removed flows through the cartridge end 102 to the cartridge drain port 142, and is subsequently discharged to the outside via the first drain duct 144. If necessary, a gas (e.g., nitrogen) may be injected into the cartridge 100 via the first nozzle 120.

[0137] Once the purification stage of cartridge 100 is complete, the controller 11 separates the first nozzle 120 and the conditioning drain unit 140 from cartridge 100 (S330). The first nozzle 120 rises vertically in the Z direction, moves along the purification device transfer rail 112 in the first direction X to position itself above the nozzle waiting block 130, and then descends vertically in the Z direction to wait on the nozzle waiting block 130. Alternatively, the first nozzle 120 may rise vertically in the Z direction, then move along the purification device transfer rail 112 in the first direction X to position itself above the cartridge station 90. The conditioning drain unit 140 may also move backward in the second direction Y.

[0138] Subsequently, the drying chamber 170 rises vertically in the Z direction, and the reservoir 171, which is mounted in the drying chamber 170, connects to the lower end of the cartridge 100 (S340). In this case, the collection vial 173 is connected to the lower end of the reservoir 171 via the connector 172. More specifically, as shown in Figure 17, when the conditioning drain unit 140 is in a reversed position in the second direction Y, and the reservoir processing unit 150 is in a standby state connected to the reservoir drain unit 190, the drying chamber 170 rises vertically in the Z direction to the cartridge station 90 by the drying chamber movement actuator 174. In this case, the reservoir 171, which is mounted in the drying chamber 170, connects to the lower end of the cartridge 100.

[0139] With the reservoir 171 connected to the lower end of the cartridge 100, the controller 11 controls the pipetting device 30 to inject the sample into the cartridge 100 (S350) and the standard sample into the cartridge 100 (S360). For this purpose, the vial tray 84 of the vial shaker 80 is fitted with at least one first vial 66a containing the sample to be analyzed and one second vial 66b containing a standard sample whose properties, such as components and concentration, are known. The vial shaker 80 repeatedly shakes the first and second vials 66a and 66b fitted in the vial tray 84 along a preset trajectory until the sample and / or standard sample are taken, thereby maintaining uniform properties of the sample and standard sample in the first and second vials 66a and 66b.

[0140] On the other hand, if the sample and the standard sample are injected into the same reservoir 171 and concentrated together, the properties of the active ingredient in the sample, such as its concentration, can be inferred from the measured value of the sample by using the measured value of the standard sample, whose properties such as components and concentration are known. Therefore, it is preferable that the sample and the standard sample are injected into the same reservoir 171 and concentrated together.

[0141] Furthermore, there are no particular restrictions on the order in which the sample and standard sample are injected. However, it is preferable to inject the standard sample after the sample.

[0142] To collect a sample or standard sample, the pipette module 38 moves along the pipetting device transfer rail 22 in a first direction X to the pipette tip tray 70 provided on the workbench 18, and then descends vertically in the Z direction along the pipette guide frame 32 to mount the pipette tip 46 placed on the pipette tip tray 70 onto the mounting end 44. The pipette module 38 then rises vertically in the Z direction along the pipette guide frame 32.

[0143] The pipette module 38 moves in a first direction X along the pipetting device transfer rail 22. In this state, the vial shaker 80 stops shaking the first and second vials 66a and 66b. The pipette module 38 then moves onto the first vial 66a of the vial shaker 80 provided on the workbench 18 and descends vertically Z along the pipette guide frame 32 so that the lower end of the pipette tip 46 is immersed in the sample in the first vial 66a. In this state, when the upper end of the pipette piston 42 is pushed and released via the pipette push actuator 48, the pipette tip 46 attached to the mounting end 44 is pushed downward and then pulled upward, and the sample in the first vial 66a is collected. In one example, the controller 11 can control the pipette push actuator 48 to push and release the upper end of the pipette piston 42 two to three times. This prevents the active ingredient 206 (e.g., dioxin) in the sample from settling due to density differences, allowing for the collection of a sample with maximum uniformity. Subsequently, the pipette module 38 rises vertically in the Z direction along the pipette guide frame 32, and the vial shaker 80 begins shaking the first and second vials 66a and 66b, which are placed in the vial tray 84, again along a preset trajectory.

[0144] The pipette module 38 moves along the pipetting device transfer rail 22 in a first direction X to the cartridge station 90 provided on the workbench 18, and then descends vertically Z along the pipette guide frame 32 to insert the lower end of the pipette tip 46 into the cartridge 100 placed on the cartridge station 90. In this state, when the upper end of the pipette piston 42 is pushed via the pipette push actuator 48, the sample collected on the pipette tip 46 is dispensed into the cartridge 100. Subsequently, the pipette module 38 rises vertically Z along the pipette guide frame 32.

[0145] The pipette module 38 moves in the first direction X along the pipetting device transfer rail 22. In this state, the vial shaker 80 stops shaking the first and second vials 66a and 66b again. The pipette module 38 then moves onto the second vial 66b of the vial shaker 80 provided on the workbench 18 and descends vertically in the Z direction along the pipette guide frame 32 so that the lower end of the pipette tip 46 is immersed in the standard sample in the second vial 66b. In this state, the upper end of the pipette piston 42 is pushed two to three times via the pipette push actuator 48 and then released, causing the pipette tip 46 mounted on the mounting end 44 to be pushed downward and then pulled upward, thereby collecting the standard sample in the second vial 66b. The pipette module 38 then rises vertically in the Z direction along the pipette guide frame 32. If there is still sample remaining to be collected, the vial shaker 80 will start shaking the first and second vials 66a and 66b, which are placed in the vial tray 84, along a pre-set trajectory. Conversely, if there is no more sample remaining to be collected, the vial shaker 80 will remain stopped.

[0146] The pipette module 38 moves in a first direction X along the pipetting device transfer rail 22 to the cartridge station 90 provided on the workbench 18, and then descends vertically Z along the pipette guide frame 32 to insert the lower end of the pipette tip 46 into the cartridge 100 into which the sample has been placed. In this state, when the upper end of the pipette piston 42 is pushed via the pipette push actuator 48, the standard sample collected on the pipette tip 46 is dispensed into the cartridge 100. Subsequently, the pipette module 38 rises vertically Z along the pipette guide frame 32 and moves in a first direction X along the pipetting device transfer rail 22 to detach from the cartridge station 90.

[0147] The controller 11 controls the cartridge purification device 110 to reconnect the first nozzle 120 to the upper end of the cartridge 100 into which the sample and standard sample are loaded (S370). In other words, the first nozzle 120 is moved onto the cartridge station 90 by the purification device transfer actuator 113, and thereafter descends vertically in the Z direction by the nozzle transfer actuator 116 to connect to the upper end of the cartridge 100 into which the sample and standard sample are loaded.

[0148] When the first nozzle 120 is reattached to the upper end of cartridge 100, the controller 11 reinjects the solvent into cartridge 100 through the first nozzle 120 (S380). This causes the solution in cartridge 100 (including the sample and standard sample) to elute into reservoir 171. If necessary, a gas (e.g., nitrogen) may be injected into cartridge 100 through the first nozzle 120.

[0149] Once the solution in cartridge 100 has eluted into reservoir 171, controller 11 separates the first nozzle 120 and the reservoir 171, which is located in the drying chamber 170, from cartridge 100 (S390). More specifically, the first nozzle 120 rises vertically in the Z direction, moves along the purification unit transfer rail 112 in the first direction X to position itself above the nozzle waiting block 130, and then descends vertically in the Z direction to wait on the nozzle waiting block 130. Alternatively, the first nozzle 120 may rise vertically in the Z direction, then move along the purification unit transfer rail 112 in the first direction X to position itself above cartridge station 90. The drying chamber 170 also descends vertically in the Z direction by the drying chamber transfer actuator 174.

[0150] Subsequently, a sample concentration step is performed. For this purpose, the controller 11 connects the second nozzle 160 to the upper end of the reservoir 171 of the drying chamber 170 (S400). More specifically, as shown in Figure 14, the reservoir drain unit 190 descends in the vertical direction Z and separates from the reservoir processing unit 150, the reservoir processing unit 150 moves forward in the second direction Y, and the drying chamber 170 rises again in the vertical direction Z and connects with the reservoir processing unit 150. As a result, the second nozzle 160 of the reservoir processing unit 150 is connected to the upper end of the drying chamber 170.

[0151] In this state, the controller 11 dries the solution in the reservoir 171 (S410). As shown in Figure 16, the drying of the solution in the reservoir 171 can be done by rotating the reservoir 171 and drying it with hot air 200. More specifically, the reservoir rotation motor 182 is rotated under the control of the controller 11, and the rotational force is transmitted to the reservoir holder 178 via the drive gear 184 and at least one driven gear 186, thereby rotating the reservoir 171 mounted in the reservoir holder 178. In this state, the hot air source 176 blows hot air 200 into the drying chamber body 175 to dry and concentrate the solution in the reservoir 171.

[0152] Furthermore, the solvent injection line 162 of the second nozzle 160 injects a preset amount of solvent 202 into the reservoir 171 at a preset flow rate, and the gas injection line 164 of the second nozzle 160 injects gas 204 into the reservoir 171. As shown in Figure 16, the lower end of the solvent injection line 162 curves toward the wall of the reservoir 171 while the second nozzle 160 is connected to the reservoir 171, allowing the solvent 202 from the solvent supply source to be injected toward the wall of the reservoir 171. As a result, the active ingredient 206 adhering to the wall of the reservoir 171 is washed away by the solvent 202 injected toward the wall, thereby allowing the amount of the active ingredient to be accurately measured. Also, the lower end of the gas injection line 164 curves toward the wall of the reservoir 171 while the second nozzle 160 is connected to the reservoir 171, allowing the gas 204 from the gas supply source to be injected toward the wall of the reservoir 171. The gas 204 can help dry the solvent 202, thereby increasing the concentration of the solution and increasing the concentration rate.

[0153] While the sample concentration step is being performed, the level sensor 179 can detect the water level of the solution in the reservoir 171 and transmit a signal to the controller 11. The controller 11 can terminate the concentration of the solution when the water level of the solution in the reservoir 171 reaches a set level. Alternatively, the controller 11 may terminate the concentration of the solution when the time spent concentrating reaches a set time.

[0154] Once the solution in reservoir 171 is finally concentrated, the pretreatment step is completed by separating the collection vial 173 from reservoir 171, and the solution in the collection vial 173 separated from reservoir 171 can be analyzed by an analytical instrument.

[0155] On the other hand, after the concentration of the solution is complete, the controller 11 may return to step S340 if necessary. In this case, steps S340 to S410 can be repeated multiple times to obtain a sufficiently concentrated solution.

[0156] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and includes all modifications that can be easily modified by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains and are considered equivalent.

Claims

1. In a pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients, A cartridge station in which at least one cartridge is placed, A pipetting device configured to inject a sample or standard sample into the interior of at least one cartridge, A vial shaker is configured to shake the first and second vials, which are placed on a stand and contain at least one first vial containing a sample to be analyzed and a second vial containing a standard sample whose properties, including its components and concentration, are known. A drying chamber is provided, which includes at least one reservoir and is configured to dry the solution in at least one reservoir, A reservoir processing unit configured to selectively bind to at least one reservoir and spray a solvent into at least one reservoir, Includes, A pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients, wherein the upper end of at least one reservoir is selectively coupled to the lower end of at least one cartridge, each reservoir is fluidically connected to the corresponding cartridge, and a collection vial, which is fluidly connected to the reservoir, is detachably coupled to the lower end of each reservoir.

2. The pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients according to claim 1, further comprising a pipetting device transfer device configured to transfer the pipetting device at least between a vial shaker and a cartridge station.

3. The aforementioned pipetting apparatus is The pipette module body and A pipette piston that is movable relative to the pipette module body in a vertical direction, A pipette push actuator that is movable vertically and configured to push the upper end of the pipette piston, A pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients according to claim 1, comprising:

4. The sample preparation system according to claim 3, wherein, with the pipette tip attached to the lower end of the pipette piston immersed in the sample in the first vial, the pipette push actuator pushes the upper end of the pipette piston two to three times to collect the sample.

5. The pipette piston is elastically attached to the pipette module body, in the pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients according to claim 3.

6. The pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients according to claim 1, further comprising a cartridge purification device selectively coupled to the upper end of at least one cartridge and configured to spray a solvent into at least one cartridge.

7. The cartridge purification apparatus is further configured to inject gas into at least one cartridge, the pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients according to claim 6.

8. The pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients according to claim 6, further comprising a conditioning drain unit configured to selectively bind to the lower end of at least one cartridge and to discharge the solvent that has been ejected from the cartridge purification device and flowed out of the cartridge.

9. The pretreatment system according to claim 1, further comprising a vial capping device configured to separate a vial cap from at least one of a first or second vial placed on a vial shaker, or to attach a vial to at least one of the first or second vial.

10. The vial capping device is A vial cap gripper including a pair of fingers that can move toward each other to grasp the vial cap or move away from each other to release the vial cap, A pair of vial gripping fingers that can move towards each other to grasp the vial, or move away from each other to release the vial, A cap gripper transfer actuator that moves the vial cap gripper vertically, The pretreatment system according to claim 9, including the above.

11. The pretreatment system according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge contains beads that adsorb impurities.

12. The pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients according to claim 1, further comprising a reservoir rotating device operatively connected to at least one reservoir placed in the drying chamber and configured to rotate the at least one reservoir.

13. The pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients according to claim 1, wherein the reservoir treatment unit is further configured to inject gas into at least one reservoir.

14. The pretreatment system according to claim 1, further comprising a hot air source for supplying hot air to the drying chamber.

15. The pretreatment system according to claim 1, wherein the reservoir treatment unit is configured to spray a solvent toward the wall of at least one reservoir.

16. A pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients according to claim 1, further comprising a level sensor configured to measure the water level of a solution in at least one reservoir.

17. A pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients according to claim 16, further comprising a controller that is communicatively connected to a pipetting device, a vial shaker, a drying chamber, and a reservoir processing unit, and configured to control the operation of the pipetting device, the vial shaker, the drying chamber, and the reservoir processing unit.

18. In a pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients, The steps include: connecting at least one reservoir, which is installed in a drying chamber, to the lower end of at least one cartridge, which is installed in a cartridge station; The steps include: injecting the sample into at least one cartridge using a pipetting device; The steps include: injecting a standard sample into at least one cartridge using the pipetting device; The steps include eluting the sample and standard sample in at least one cartridge into at least one reservoir, The steps include separating at least one reservoir, which is installed in the drying chamber, from at least one cartridge, A step of drying the solution in at least one reservoir in a drying chamber, A pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients, including those listed.

19. The pretreatment method according to claim 18, wherein the cartridge contains beads that adsorb impurities.

20. Prior to the step of injecting the sample into at least one cartridge, the step further includes collecting the sample with a pipetting device, The sample preparation method according to claim 18, wherein the step of collecting a sample with a pipetting device includes pressing the upper end of a pipette piston, which is movable relative to the pipette module body in a vertical direction, two to three times.

21. Before the step of connecting at least one reservoir, which is installed in the drying chamber, to the lower end of at least one cartridge, which is installed in the cartridge station, The steps include: connecting the cartridge purification device to the upper end of at least one cartridge; The process involves a step of injecting a solvent into at least one cartridge using a cartridge purification device, The pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients according to claim 18, further comprising:

22. Before the step of spraying the solvent into at least one cartridge in the cartridge purification device, A pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients according to claim 21, further comprising the step of attaching a conditioning drain unit to the lower end of at least one cartridge.

23. The step of eluting the sample and standard sample in at least one cartridge into at least one reservoir is: The steps include: connecting the cartridge purification device to the upper end of at least one cartridge; The process involves a step of injecting a solvent into at least one cartridge using a cartridge purification device, A pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients according to claim 18, including the method described in claim 18.

24. A pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient according to claim 21 or 23, further comprising the step of injecting a gas into at least one cartridge in a cartridge purification device.

25. The pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients according to claim 18, wherein the step of drying the solutions in at least one reservoir in a drying chamber is carried out by blowing hot air into the drying chamber.

26. The pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient according to claim 18, wherein the step of drying the solution in at least one reservoir in a drying chamber includes the step of rotating the at least one reservoir with a reservoir rotating device operatively coupled to the reservoir.

27. The step of drying the solution in at least one reservoir in a drying chamber is, The steps include: connecting a reservoir processing unit to at least one reservoir, The reservoir processing unit includes the step of spraying a solvent into at least one reservoir, A pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient according to claim 25 or 26, further comprising:

28. The pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients according to claim 27, wherein the step of drying the solution in at least one reservoir in a drying chamber further comprises the step of injecting a gas into at least one reservoir in a reservoir processing unit.

29. The pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient according to claim 18, further comprising the step of ending the drying step in response to a controller reaching a set level of the water level of the solution in at least one reservoir.

30. The pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient according to claim 18, further comprising the step of terminating the drying step in response to a set time being reached by a controller.

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