Pretreatment system and pretreatment method for measuring active ingredient

Abstract

A pretreatment system for measuring an active ingredient is disclosed. The pretreatment system may comprise: a cartridge station having at least one cartridge mounted thereon; a pipetting device configured to inject a sample or a standard sample into the interior of the at least one cartridge; a vial shaker configured to shake the first and second vials, wherein at least one first vial containing a sample to be analyzed and a second vial containing a standard sample having known properties including a component and concentration are mounted on the vial shaker; a drying chamber having at least one reservoir mounted thereon and configured to dry a solution in the at least one reservoir; and a reservoir processing unit configured to be selectively coupled to the at least one reservoir and to spray a solvent into the at least one reservoir. A pretreatment method performed using the pretreatment system is further disclosed.

Description

Pretreatment system and pretreatment method for measuring effective ingredients

[0001] Cross-citation with related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0066013, Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0066014, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0066015, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0003] The present invention relates to a pretreatment system and a pretreatment method for measuring an effective ingredient in waste, and more particularly, to a pretreatment system and a pretreatment method for measuring an effective ingredient in waste, which can minimize deviations in analysis results and improve analysis efficiency by automating a long and complex pretreatment process for detecting trace amounts of an effective ingredient contained in waste.

[0004] Dioxins can be produced when organic compounds containing chlorine are burned, and are primarily produced when burning waste. The toxicity of dioxins in waste has heightened the importance of regulating and managing dioxin emissions. Consequently, a process for detecting and quantifying trace amounts of dioxins in waste is necessary.

[0005] Typically, analyzing dioxin-like compounds involves a sequential process: an extraction step to extract the dioxin-like compounds from the sample, a purification step to remove interfering substances from the extract, and a concentration step to concentrate the effluent. Of these three pretreatment steps, the purification and concentration steps are time-consuming and, as they are performed manually, are highly dependent on the skill of the operator. Consequently, analysis results can vary across analysts.

[0006] The information contained in this background section is intended to enhance understanding of the background of the invention and may include matters that are not prior art and are already known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention seeks to provide a pretreatment system and a pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients in waste, which automates a long and complex pretreatment process for detecting trace amounts of active ingredients contained in waste.

[0008] A pretreatment system for measuring an active ingredient according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cartridge station having at least one cartridge mounted thereon; a pipetting device configured to inject a sample or a standard sample into the interior of the at least one cartridge; a vial shaker configured to shake the first and second vials, wherein at least one first vial containing a sample to be analyzed and a second vial containing a standard sample having known properties including a component and a concentration are mounted thereon; a drying chamber having at least one reservoir mounted thereon and configured to dry a solution in the at least one reservoir; and a reservoir processing unit configured to be selectively coupled to the at least one reservoir and to inject a solvent into the at least one reservoir, wherein an upper end of the at least one reservoir is selectively coupled to a lower end of the at least one cartridge such that each reservoir is fluidly connected to a corresponding cartridge, and a collection vial fluidly connected to the corresponding reservoir can be detachably coupled to a lower end of each reservoir.

[0009] The above pretreatment system may further include a pipetting device transport device configured to transport the pipetting device between at least a vial shaker and a cartridge station.

[0010] The above pipetting device may include a pipette module body; a pipette piston that is vertically movable relative to the pipette module body; and a pipette push actuator that is vertically movable and configured to press the top of the pipette piston.

[0011] The pipette push actuator can collect a sample by pressing the top of the pipette piston two to three times while the pipette tip mounted on the lower end of the pipette piston is immersed in the sample in the first vial.

[0012] The pipette piston can be elastically mounted to the pipette module body.

[0013] The pretreatment system may further include a cartridge purification device selectively coupled to the upper portion of at least one cartridge and configured to inject a solvent into the at least one cartridge.

[0014] The above cartridge purification device may be further configured to inject gas into at least one cartridge.

[0015] The above pretreatment system may further include a conditioning drain unit configured to be selectively coupled to the lower portion of at least one cartridge to discharge solvent that has flowed out of the cartridge by being injected from the cartridge purification device.

[0016] The above pretreatment 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 the vial shaker or to bind a vial to at least one of the first and second vials.

[0017] The vial capping device may include a vial cap gripper including a pair of fingers that can move toward each other to grasp a vial cap or move away from each other to place a vial cap; a pair of vial grip fingers that can move toward each other to grasp a vial or move away from each other to place a vial; and a cap gripper transfer actuator that moves the vial cap gripper in a vertical direction.

[0018] The cartridge may contain beads that adsorb impurities.

[0019] The pretreatment system may further include a reservoir rotation device operatively connected to at least one reservoir mounted in the drying chamber and configured to rotate the at least one reservoir.

[0020] The reservoir treatment unit may be further configured to inject gas into at least one reservoir.

[0021] The above pretreatment system may further include a hot air source for supplying hot air to the drying chamber.

[0022] The reservoir treatment unit may be configured to spray solvent toward the wall of at least one reservoir.

[0023] The pretreatment system may further include a level sensor configured to measure the level of the solution within at least one reservoir.

[0024] The above pretreatment system may further include a controller communicatively connected to the pipetting device, the vial shaker, the drying chamber, and the reservoir processing unit, and configured to control the operation of the pipetting device, the vial shaker, the drying chamber, and the reservoir processing unit.

[0025] A pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient according to another embodiment of the present invention may include the steps of: coupling at least one reservoir mounted in a drying chamber to the lower portion of at least one cartridge mounted 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 mounted in the drying chamber from the at least one cartridge; and drying a solution in the at least one reservoir with a drying chamber.

[0026] The cartridge may contain beads that adsorb impurities.

[0027] The above pretreatment method further includes a step of collecting a sample with a pipetting device before the step of injecting a sample into the at least one cartridge, and the step of collecting a sample with the pipetting device may include a step of pressing the top of a pipette piston that is relatively movable in a vertical direction with respect to the pipette module body two to three times.

[0028] The above pretreatment method may further include, before the step of coupling at least one reservoir mounted in the drying chamber to the lower portion of at least one cartridge mounted on the cartridge station, the step of coupling a cartridge purification device to the upper portion of at least one cartridge; and the step of injecting a solvent into at least one cartridge with the cartridge purification device.

[0029] The above pretreatment method may further include a step of coupling a conditioning drain unit to the lower end of at least one cartridge before the step of injecting the solvent into at least one cartridge using the cartridge purification device.

[0030] The step of eluting the sample and standard sample within the at least one cartridge into the at least one reservoir may include the step of coupling a cartridge purification device to the upper end of the at least one cartridge; and the step of injecting a solvent into the at least one cartridge with the cartridge purification device.

[0031] The above pretreatment method may further include a step of injecting gas into at least one cartridge with a cartridge purification device.

[0032] The step of drying the solution within at least one reservoir in the drying chamber can be performed by blowing hot air into the drying chamber.

[0033] The step of drying the solution within at least one reservoir with a drying chamber may comprise the step of rotating said at least one reservoir with a reservoir rotation device operatively connected to the reservoir.

[0034] The step of drying the solution within at least one reservoir with a drying chamber may further include the step of coupling a reservoir treatment unit to the at least one reservoir; and the step of injecting a solvent into the at least one reservoir with the reservoir treatment unit.

[0035] The step of drying the solution within at least one reservoir with a drying chamber may further include the step of injecting gas into the at least one reservoir with a reservoir treatment unit.

[0036] In one aspect, the method may further include a step of terminating the drying step in response to the level of the solution in at least one reservoir reaching a set level, by the controller.

[0037] In another aspect, the method may further include a step of terminating the drying step in response to the controller having reached a set time for which the drying step has been in progress.

[0038] According to the present invention, a long and complex preprocessing process can be automated to prevent analysis results from varying depending on the skill of the analyst.

[0039] Additionally, automation of the preprocessing process can shorten preprocessing time and improve analysis efficiency.

[0040] In addition, the effects that can be obtained or expected from embodiments of the present invention will be disclosed directly or implicitly in the detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention. That is, the various effects expected according to embodiments of the present invention will be disclosed in the detailed description that follows.

[0041] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be better understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals designate identical or functionally similar elements.

[0042] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a pretreatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating components of a pretreatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention disposed within a housing.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a pipetting device and a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 5 is a side view of a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a vial shaker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a cartridge station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a cartridge purification unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a first nozzle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 10 is a plan view of a cartridge purification unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of Figure 10.

[0053] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a sample concentration device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a sample concentration device according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a cartridge is shown coupled to a cartridge purification unit and a conditioning drain unit.

[0055] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a sample concentration device according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which a reservoir processing unit, a second nozzle, and a drying chamber are shown coupled to each other.

[0056] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of Figure 14.

[0057] Figure 16 schematically illustrates a process for concentrating an effluent according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a sample concentration device according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the drying chamber is shown in an elevated state.

[0059] Figure 18 is a plan view of a drying chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC of Figure 18.

[0061] FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing the bottom of a drying chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 21 is a flowchart of a preprocessing method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] The drawings referenced above are not necessarily drawn to scale, but should be understood to present rather simplified representations of various preferred features that illustrate the fundamental principles of the present disclosure. For example, specific design features of the present disclosure, including specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes, will be determined in part by the specific intended application and usage environment.

[0064] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will also be understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any one or all combinations of the associated listed items.

[0065] Additionally, it is understood that one or more of the methods or aspects thereof below may be implemented by at least one controller. The term "controller" may refer to a hardware device comprising a memory and a processor. The memory is configured to store program instructions, and the processor is specifically programmed to execute the program instructions to perform one or more processes described in more detail below. The controller may control the operation of units, modules, components, devices, or the like, as described herein. It is also understood that the methods below may be implemented by a device comprising the controller in conjunction with one or more other components, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

[0066] Additionally, the controller of the present disclosure may be implemented as a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium containing executable program instructions executed by a processor. Examples of computer-readable recording media include, but are not limited to, read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), compact disc (CD) ROM, magnetic tapes, floppy disks, flash drives, smart cards, and optical data storage devices. The computer-readable recording medium may also be distributed across a computer network so that the program instructions are stored and executed in a distributed manner, such as on a telematics server or a Controller Area Network (CAN).

[0067]

[0068] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0069] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a pretreatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing components of the pretreatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention arranged within a housing.

[0070] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a pretreatment system (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided within a housing (12) so that all processes of a pretreatment method can be automatically performed within the housing (10) without user intervention. A first door (14) is provided at the upper portion of the housing (10), so that a user can open the first door (14) and access components provided at the upper portion of the pretreatment system (10) (e.g., components arranged on a worktable (18). Similarly, a second door (16) is provided at the lower portion of the housing (10), so that a user can open the second door (16) and access components provided at the lower portion of the pretreatment system (10) (e.g., components arranged under a worktable (18). The first and second doors (14, 16) may be closed when the pretreatment method is performed.

[0071] The above pretreatment system (10) may include a controller (11) for controlling the pretreatment system (10) to perform a pretreatment method. The controller (11) may be communicatively connected to the pretreatment system (10) to control the operation of the pretreatment system (10). The controller (11) may be disposed within the housing (12) or disposed outside the housing (12) to remotely control the pretreatment system (10). The controller (11) may be implemented with one or more processors that operate according to a set program, and the memory of the controller (11) stores program commands programmed to perform each step of the pretreatment method for measuring effective components in waste according to an embodiment of the present invention through the one or more processors. In addition, the pretreatment system (10) may further include a user interface (13) that provides an input interface for operating the pretreatment system (10) or inputting process conditions, and an output interface for outputting an operating status of the pretreatment system (10), etc.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 2, the pretreatment system (10) includes a liquid supply device provided on the upper side of the worktable (18) and a sample concentration device (210) provided on the lower side of the worktable (18).

[0073] The liquid supply device is configured to inject a sample, a standard sample, a solvent, and / or a gas into a cartridge (100) (see FIG. 7). For this purpose, the liquid supply device includes a pipetting device transport 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).

[0074] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the pipetting device transport device (20) is configured to transport the pipetting device (30) in a first direction (X). The pipetting device transport device (20) includes a pair of support frames (24) mounted on both sides in the first direction (X) on a worktable (18). Each support frame (24) extends upward in a vertical direction (Z) perpendicular to the first direction (X) so that the pipetting device (30) is transported without colliding with other parts.

[0075] The above pipetting device transport device (20) further includes a pipetting device transport rail (22). The pipetting device transport rail (22) extends in the first direction (X) and is respectively mounted on the upper portions of a pair of support frames (24). That is, one end of the pipetting device transport rail (22) is mounted on the upper portion of the support frame (24) mounted on one side of the worktable (18), and the other end of the pipetting device transport rail (22) is mounted on the upper portion of the support frame (24) mounted on the other side of the worktable (18).

[0076] The above pipetting device transport device (20) further includes a pipetting device transport actuator (26). The pipetting device transport actuator (26) is connected to the pipetting device (30) and transports the pipetting device (30) along the pipetting device transport rail (22) in a first direction (X) under the control of the controller (11). Here, the pipetting device transport actuator (26) is exemplified as being mounted on one end of the pipetting device transport rail (22), but the mounting position of the pipetting device transport actuator (26) is not limited thereto. The pipetting device transport actuator (26) can be mounted at an appropriate position to transport the pipetting device (30) along the pipetting device transport rail (22) in the first direction (X).

[0077] The pipetting device (30) is configured to inject a sample or standard sample into a cartridge (100) under the control of the controller (11), and the vial capping device (50) is configured to couple a vial cap (68) to a vial (66) or separate 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) are described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5.

[0078] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a pipetting device and a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a side view of a vial capping device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, the pipetting device (30) is configured to collect a sample or standard sample from a vial (66) placed on a vial shaker (80) and inject the collected sample or standard sample into a cartridge (100) placed on a cartridge station (90). The pipetting device (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).

[0080] The pipette guide frame (32) is slidably mounted on the pipetting device transport rail (22) and is connected to the pipetting device transport actuator (26) so as to be able to move in the first direction (X) along the pipetting device transport rail (22). The pipette guide frame (32) extends in the vertical direction (Z).

[0081] The above 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) can move in the vertical direction (Z) along the pipette guide frame (32).

[0082] The pipette vertical movement actuator (36) is connected to the pipette slider (34) and is configured to move the pipette slider (34) in the vertical direction (Z) along the pipette guide frame (32) under the control of the controller (11).

[0083] The pipette module (38) is mounted on the pipette slider (34) and can move in the vertical direction (Z) together with the pipette slider (34). Since the pipette slider (34) is mounted on the pipette guide frame (32) and can move in the first direction (X) along the pipetting device transport rail (22) together with the pipette guide frame (32), the pipette module (38) can move in the first direction (X) along the pipetting device transport rail (22) and can move in the vertical direction (Z) along the pipette guide frame (32). Accordingly, the pipette module (38) can move in the first direction (X) along the pipetting device transport rail (22) and be positioned on top of a pipette tip tray (70), a vial shaker (80), or a cartridge station (90) provided on the worktable (18), and then move in the vertical direction (Z) along the pipette guide frame (32) to perform a predetermined operation. More specifically, the pipette module (38) can be lowered at a position corresponding to the pipette tip tray (70) to mount a pipette tip (46), lowered at a position corresponding to the vial shaker (80) to collect a sample or standard sample in a vial (66), and lowered at a position corresponding to the cartridge station (90) to inject the collected sample or standard sample into a cartridge (100).

[0084] 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 to a pipette slider (34), and the pipette piston (42) can move in a vertical direction (Z) with respect to the pipette module body (40). The pipette piston (42) is elastically mounted to 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 to the mounting end (44). When the pipette slider (34) moves downward while the pipette module (38) is positioned at a position corresponding to the pipette tip tray (70), the mounting end (44) of the pipette piston (42) is inserted into one of the pipette tips (46) mounted on the pipette tip tray (70), so that the pipette tip (46) is mounted to the mounting end (44). After that, the pipette slider (34) rises to its original position with the pipette tip (46) mounted on the mounting end (44).

[0085] The pipette push actuator (48) is positioned above the pipette piston (42) and is vertically mounted on the pipette slider (34) so ​​as to be movable. When the pipette push actuator (48) moves downward under the control of the controller (11) and presses the upper end of the pipette piston (42), the pipette piston (42) moves downward relative to the pipette module body (40) and pushes downward the pipette tip (46) mounted on the mounting end (44). If the pipette tip (46) contains a solution, the mounting end (44) pushes downward the pipette tip (46) to discharge 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 pressing the pipette piston (42) disappears, the pipette piston (42) elastically mounted on the pipette module body (40) moves upward and pulls the pipette tip (46) mounted on the mounting end (44) upward. In order to collect a sample or standard sample contained in a vial (66) with the pipette tip (46), the pipette slider (34) moves downward so that the lower part of the pipette tip (46) is immersed in the solution contained in the vial (66). In this state, when the upper part of the pipette piston (42) is pressed and released through the pipette push actuator (48), the pipette tip (46) mounted on the mounting end (44) is pushed downward and then pulled upward, so that the sample or standard sample in the vial (66) is collected.

[0086] Meanwhile, although two pipette modules (38) and two pipette push actuators (48) are exemplified as being 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) may be the same, and one or more pipette modules (38) may be provided.

[0087] 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 couple a vial cap (68) to a vial (66). In addition, the vial capping device (50) may be further configured to place a vial (66) on the vial shaker (80) or to take out a vial (66) from the vial shaker (80). The vial capping device (50) may be mounted on a pipette guide frame (32) or on a pipette slider (34) and move in a first direction (X) along a pipetting device transport rail (22). Alternatively, the vial capping device (50) may be provided at a position corresponding to the vial shaker (80).

[0088] The above vial capping device (50) may include a vial capping frame (52), a vial capping device transport actuator (54), a cap gripper transport actuator (56), a vial grip finger (58), a vial cap gripper (60), a vial grip actuator (62), and a cap gripper actuator (64).

[0089] The vial capping device transport actuator (54) is mounted on the pipette guide frame (32) or the pipette slider (34) and can move in the first direction (X) along the pipetting device transport rail (22). The vial capping device transport actuator (54) is positioned at a different position from the pipette module (38) in the first direction (X) so that the vial capping device transport actuator (54) and the pipette module (38) do not collide with each other when they move relative to each other. The vial capping device transport actuator (54) moves the vial capping frame (52) in the vertical direction (Z) under the control of the controller (11).

[0090] The vial capping frame (52) is connected to the vial capping device transport actuator (54) and is movable in the vertical direction (Z). The cap gripper transport actuator (56), the vial grip finger (58), the vial cap gripper (60), the vial grip actuator (62), and the cap gripper actuator (64) are mounted on the vial capping frame (52) and are movable in the vertical direction (Z) together with the vial capping frame (52). The vial capping frame (52) includes a vertical plane extending in the vertical direction (Z) and a horizontal plane extending in a second direction (Y) perpendicular to the first direction (X) and the vertical direction (Z) from the lower end of the vertical plane, and the vertical plane and the horizontal plane may be formed integrally.

[0091] The above cap gripper transport actuator (56) is mounted on the vertical surface, and a cap gripper actuator (64) and a vial cap gripper (60) are mounted on the lower part thereof. The cap gripper transport 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).

[0092] The cap gripper actuator (64) is mounted at the bottom of the cap gripper transport actuator (56) and can be moved in the vertical direction (Z) by the cap gripper transport actuator (56). The cap gripper actuator (64) can move a pair of fingers of the vial cap gripper (60) toward each other under the control of the controller (11) to hold the vial cap (68) or move a pair of fingers of the vial cap gripper (60) away from each other to release the vial cap (68).

[0093] 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 away from each other to release the vial cap (68). While the vial cap gripper (60) is holding the vial cap (68), the cap gripper transport actuator (56) can move the vial cap gripper (60) downward to engage the vial cap (68) with the vial (66) or move the vial cap gripper (60) upward to separate the vial cap (68) from the vial (66).

[0094] The vial grip actuator (62) is mounted on the horizontal surface of the vial capping frame (52) and extends to a position lower than the vial cap gripper (60) in the vertical direction (Z). A pair of vial grip fingers (58) are mounted on 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 hold a vial (66) or move the pair of vial grip fingers (58) away from each other to place a vial (66) under the control of the controller (11).

[0095] A pair of vial grip fingers (58) are mounted on the lower end of the vial grip actuator (62) and are connected to the vial grip actuator (62) so as to move toward each other to hold 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), and the vial (66) held by the pair of vial grip fingers (58) can be positioned coaxially with the vial cap (68) held by the pair of fingers of the vial cap gripper (60).

[0096] Referring again to FIG. 2, a pipette tip tray (70), a vial shaker (80), and a cartridge station (90) are arranged spaced apart from each other on a worktable (18). The pipette tip tray (70), the vial shaker (80), and the cartridge station (90) are arranged in the order of the pipette tip tray (70), the vial shaker (80), and the cartridge station (90) in accordance with the operating order of the pipetting device (30), but the arrangement order of the pipette tip tray (70), the vial shaker (80), and the cartridge station (90) is not limited thereto. In addition, the pipette tip tray (70), the vial shaker (80), and the cartridge station (90) are each configured to be movable in the second direction (Y).

[0097] As illustrated in FIG. 2, a pipette tip tray (70) is placed on one side in a first direction (X) on a worktable (18). At least one unused pipette tip (46) is placed on the pipette tip tray (70) and can be moved in a second direction (Y) by a pipette tip tray actuator (72). For example, when a pipette tip (46) is mounted on 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). In contrast, 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).

[0098] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a vial shaker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 6, a vial shaker (80) is placed in the middle of a workbench (18) in a first direction (X). The vial shaker (80) places at least one first vial (66a) containing a sample requiring analysis and one second vial (66b) containing a standard sample having known properties such as components and concentrations, and shakes the placed first and second vials (66a, 66b) to minimize positional deviations in the properties of the sample and the standard sample.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 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).

[0101] The shaker plate (82) may be generally rectangular in shape. One side of the shaker plate (82) is connected to a shaker transport actuator (86) and can move in the second direction (Y), and the lower side of the shaker plate (82) is connected to a shaking actuator (88) and can be repeatedly shaken along a preset orbit.

[0102] 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 first and second vials (66a, 66b). The vial tray (84) is coupled to the vial plate (82) and can move in the second direction (Y) together with the vial plate (82) and can be repeatedly shaken along a preset orbit. Accordingly, the first and second vials (66a, 66b) held on the vial tray (84) are also repeatedly shaken along the preset orbit, and the characteristics of the sample and standard sample in the first and second vials (66a, 66b) are uniformly maintained. Although FIG. 6 illustrates that six first vials (66a) and one second vial (66b) are provided, the number of the first and second vials (66a, 66b) is not limited thereto.

[0103] The shaker transport 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 collecting a sample in the first vial (66a) or a standard sample in the second vial (66b), the shaker transport 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). In contrast, when collecting a sample or standard sample is not required, the shaker transport actuator (86) moves the shaker plate (82) to a standby position in the second direction (Y) under the control of the controller (11).

[0104] The shaking actuator (88) is connected to the lower surface of the shaker plate (82) and can repeatedly shake the shaker plate (82) along a preset orbit under the control of the controller (11). Accordingly, the characteristics of the sample and standard sample in the first and second vials (66a, 66b) placed on the vial tray (84) are maintained uniformly. The shaking actuator (68) can continuously and repeatedly shake the shaker plate (82) until a sample is collected from the first vial (66a) or a standard sample is collected from the second vial (66b).

[0105] 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). When the tray fixing knob (89) is turned in one direction, the vial tray (84) can be coupled to the vial plate (82), and when the tray fixing knob (89) is turned in the opposite direction, the vial tray (84) can be separated from the vial plate (82). The type of the tray fixing knob (89) is not particularly limited, and one type of various types of tray fixing knobs (89) known to those skilled in the art can be used.

[0106] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a cartridge station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 7, a cartridge station (90) is placed on the other side in the first direction (X) on the worktable (18). At least one cartridge (100) is mounted on the cartridge station (90). The cartridge (100) may be fixed or detachably fixed to the cartridge station (90).

[0108] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the cartridge station (90) may include a cartridge station actuator (94), a cartridge hold shutter (96), and a cartridge hold hole (98).

[0109] The cartridge hold shutter (96) is generally in the shape of a rectangular plate or block, 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 cartridge (100) extends downward through the corresponding cartridge hold hole (98), and the upper end of the cartridge (100) can be fixed to the cartridge hold shutter (96).

[0110] 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 the second direction (Y) under the control of the controller (11). For example, when a sample, a standard sample, or a solvent is injected into the cartridge (100), the cartridge station actuator (94) moves the cartridge hold shutter (96) in the second direction (Y) above the work table penetration hole (92) formed in the work table (18) under the control of the controller (11). In contrast, when work using the cartridge (100) is not required, the cartridge station actuator (94) moves the cartridge hold shutter (96) to the standby position in the second direction (Y) under the control of the controller (11).

[0111] Here, referring to FIGS. 9 and 11, the cartridge (100) has a hollow cylindrical shape. A flange is formed on the upper end of the cartridge (100) to be used for fixing the cartridge (100) to the cartridge hold shutter (96). The upper surface of the cartridge (100) is opened to form a cartridge mounting hole (104), and the lower end of the cartridge (100) is provided with a cartridge end (102) having a small diameter, and the cartridge end (102) is also opened in the vertical direction (Z). The diameter of the opening of the cartridge end (102) is sufficiently small so that the sample, standard sample, or solvent in the cartridge (100) is eluted through the cartridge end (102). The cartridge (100) contains beads (106) for removing impurities that interfere with the extraction of the active ingredient. Typically, the beads (106) separate impurities from the active ingredient (e.g., dioxin, etc.) and adsorb the impurities to prevent them from passing through the cartridge end (102).

[0112] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a cartridge purification unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a first nozzle according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 10 is a plan view of a cartridge purification unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 10.

[0113] As illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 8 to FIG. 11, the cartridge purification device (110) may be configured to be coupled to the upper end of a cartridge (100) fixed to a cartridge station (90) and to supply a solvent or gas into the cartridge (100) to remove impurities, etc., within the cartridge (100). In addition, the cartridge purification device (110) may supply a solvent or gas into the cartridge (100) containing the sample and / or standard sample, so that the sample and / or standard sample within the cartridge (100) may be eluted into a reservoir (171) (see FIG. 15). The cartridge purification device (110) includes a purification device transport rail (112), a purification device transport actuator (113), a purification device sliding frame (114), a nozzle transport actuator (116), a nozzle mounting frame (118), and a first nozzle (120). The cartridge purification device (110) further includes a nozzle standby block (130).

[0114] The purification device transport rail (112) extends in a first direction (X) above the worktable (18). Typically, a pair of frames spaced apart in the first direction (X) are mounted on the worktable (18), and the purification device transport rail (112) is mounted on the upper portion of the pair of frames and arranged to extend in the first direction (X). The purification device transport rail (112) can extend at least between the nozzle waiting block (130) and the cartridge station (90) so that the first nozzle (120) can remain in the nozzle waiting block (130) or the cartridge station (90).

[0115] The purification device transport actuator (113) is mounted on one end of the purification device transport rail (112) and moves the purification device sliding frame (114) along the purification device transport rail (112) in the first direction (X).

[0116] The purification device sliding frame (114) is movably mounted on the purification device transport rail (112) and is connected to the purification device transport actuator (113) so as to be movable in the first direction (X) along the purification device transport rail (112). In other words, the purification device sliding frame (114) is movable in the first direction (X) along the purification device transport rail (112) at least between the nozzle standby block (130) and the cartridge station (90).

[0117] The nozzle mounting frame (118) is mounted so as to be movable in the vertical direction (Z) on the refining device sliding frame (114) and is connected to the nozzle transport actuator (116). The nozzle transport actuator (116) moves the nozzle mounting frame (118) in the vertical direction (Z).

[0118] The first nozzle (120) is mounted on the nozzle mounting frame (118) and can move in the vertical direction (Z) together with the nozzle mounting frame (118). That is, the first nozzle (120) moves in the first direction (X) between the nozzle standby block (130) and the cartridge station (90) together with the purifier sliding frame (114) by the purifier transport actuator (113), and can move in the vertical direction (Z) together with the nozzle mounting frame (118) by the nozzle transport actuator (116). Accordingly, the first nozzle (120) can be moved to the upper part of the nozzle standby block (130) or the cartridge station (90) by the purification device transport actuator (113), and can be lowered in the vertical direction (Z) to be combined with the cartridge (100) mounted on the nozzle standby block (132) or the cartridge station (90), or can be separated from the cartridge (100) mounted on the nozzle standby block (132) or the cartridge station (90) by being raised in the vertical direction (Z). As illustrated in FIG. 9, the first nozzle (120) includes a solvent supply line (122), a nozzle body (124), a nozzle passage (125), a gas supply portion (126), and a cartridge docking portion (128).

[0119] The nozzle body (124) is connected to a solvent supply source through a solvent supply line (122). In addition, a nozzle passage (125) is provided downwardly in the nozzle body (124). Accordingly, the solvent supplied from the solvent supply source to the nozzle body (124) through the solvent supply line (122) can be sprayed into the cartridge (100) through the nozzle passage (125) to wash away impurities in the cartridge (100). The nozzle body (124), the solvent supply line (122), or the nozzle passage (125) may be equipped with a means for pressurizing the solvent to spray the solvent, and the means for pressurizing the solvent can adjust the amount or speed of the sprayed solvent by control of the controller (11). The solvent may be a substance capable of removing impurities that interfere with the detection of an effective ingredient (e.g., dioxin, etc.), such as methanol or toluene.

[0120] A gas supply part (126) is provided on one side of the nozzle body (124), so that the nozzle body (124) is connected to a gas supply source through the gas supply part (126). In addition, a cartridge docking part (128) is provided on the lower side of the nozzle body (124). Accordingly, a gas such as nitrogen can be introduced from a gas supply source into the nozzle body (124) through the gas supply part (126) and sprayed into the cartridge (100) through the cartridge docking part (128). The cartridge docking part (128) can be inserted into the cartridge (100) through the cartridge mounting hole (104). A sealing member (129) can be provided on the cartridge docking part (128) so that the cartridge (100) combined with the first nozzle (120) is sealed.

[0121] Although the present specification exemplifies that the cartridge purification device (110) includes two first nozzles (120), 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).

[0122] Meanwhile, a gas valve (136) is provided on the above-described purification device transport rail (112) to selectively connect or disconnect the gas supply source and the gas supply unit (126).

[0123] The nozzle standby block (130) is provided corresponding to one side of the purification device transport rail (112), and when the purification step of the cartridge (100) is not in progress, the first nozzle (120) can stand by while being combined with the nozzle standby block (130).

[0124] In the above nozzle waiting block (130), a nozzle waiting hole (132) is formed in the vertical direction (Z), and the first nozzle (120) can be inserted into the nozzle waiting hole (132). A nozzle drain port (134) is provided at the bottom of the nozzle waiting hole (132), so that solvent leaking from the first nozzle (120) inserted into the nozzle waiting hole (132) can be discharged through the nozzle drain port (134).

[0125]

[0126] Hereinafter, the sample concentration device will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 12 to 20.

[0127] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a sample concentration device according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a sample concentration device according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a cartridge is coupled to a cartridge purification unit and a conditioning drain unit; FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a sample concentration device according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a reservoir processing unit, a second nozzle, and a drying chamber are coupled to each other; FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG. 14; FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating a process of concentrating an effluent according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a sample concentration device according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a drying chamber is elevated; FIG. 18 is a plan view of a drying chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG. 18; and FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating the bottom of a drying chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] As illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 20, the sample concentration device (210) is configured to be selectively coupled to the lower portion of a cartridge (100) mounted on a cartridge station (90) to receive a sample and / or a standard sample from the cartridge (100), and to dry the sample and / or the standard sample to concentrate the sample and / or the standard sample. In addition, the sample concentration device (210) is further configured to be selectively coupled to the lower portion of a cartridge (100) mounted on a cartridge station (90), to receive a solvent that has purified the cartridge (100), 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 rinse drain unit (190).

[0129] As illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 15 and 17, the conditioning drain unit (140) is mounted on a cartridge station (90) and is configured to be coupled to a lower portion of a cartridge (100) in which an upper portion thereof is coupled to a first nozzle (120), so as to receive a solvent that has been purified by spraying the cartridge (100) from the first nozzle (120) into 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 movement actuator (146).

[0130] The cartridge drain port (142) is formed in a vertical direction (Z) on the upper surface of the conditioning drain body (141). The lower part of the cartridge (100) is inserted into the cartridge drain port (142). Accordingly, 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) through the cartridge end (102).

[0131] The first drain duct (144) is connected to 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) through the first drain duct (144).

[0132] The conditioning drain unit movement 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 in progress, the first nozzle (120) of the cartridge purification device (110) moves to the upper side of the cartridge station (90) and moves downward in the vertical direction (Z) to engage with the upper side of the cartridge (100) mounted on the cartridge station (90). In addition, the conditioning drain unit movement actuator (146) moves the conditioning drain body (141) forward in the second direction (Y) to position it below the corresponding cartridge (100), and then moves the conditioning drain body (141) upward in the vertical direction (Z) to engage the lower end of the corresponding cartridge (100) with the cartridge drain port (142). In this state, the second nozzle (120) injects solvent and / or gas into the cartridge (100) to perform a purification step of the cartridge (100), and the purified solvent of the cartridge (100) flows through the cartridge end (102) to the cartridge drain port (142) and is then discharged to the outside through the first drain duct (144).

[0133] When the purification step is completed, the conditioning drain unit movement actuator (146) moves the conditioning drain body (141) downward in the vertical direction (Z) to separate the lower portion of the cartridge (100) from the cartridge drain port (142), and then moves the conditioning drain body (141) backward in the second direction (Y) to prevent the conditioning drain unit (140) from interfering with the operation of other components of the sample concentration device (210).

[0134] As illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 17, the reservoir treatment unit (150) is coupled to the upper portion of a reservoir (171) mounted in a drying chamber (170) in the concentration step and injects solvent and gas into the reservoir (171). In addition, the reservoir treatment unit (150) is coupled to the upper portion of a reservoir rinse drain unit (190) after or before injecting the solvent and gas. The reservoir treatment unit (150) includes a treatment unit body (151), a treatment unit movement actuator (152), a second drain duct (154), and a second nozzle (160).

[0135] 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 engage with the reservoir (171) mounted in the drying chamber (170), and moves the processing unit body (151) backward in the second direction (Y) to engage with the reservoir rinse drain unit (190).

[0136] 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) through the second drain duct (154).

[0137] The second nozzle (160) is mounted on the upper surface of the processing unit body (151), and the lower portion of the second nozzle (160) extends into the processing unit body (151). The lower portion of the processing unit body (151) is open and selectively closed by the reservoir rinse drain unit (190), thereby forming a selectively closed space within the processing unit body (151). The lower portion of the second nozzle (160) may be inserted into a reservoir (171) mounted in the drying chamber (170), or may be positioned in a closed space within the processing unit body (151).

[0138] 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) is connected to a solvent supply source, so that the solvent from the solvent supply source can be injected through the solvent injection line (162). As illustrated in FIG. 16, the lower end of the solvent injection line (162) can be bent 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). Accordingly, the active ingredient adhered to the wall of the reservoir (171) can be washed away by the solvent injected toward the wall, thereby allowing the amount of the active ingredient to be accurately measured. The solvent may be methanol, toluene, or the like.

[0139] The gas injection line (164) is connected to a gas supply source, so that 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 illustrated in FIG. 16, the lower end of the gas injection line (164) can be bent toward the wall of the reservoir (171) while the second nozzle (160) is 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 can be nitrogen.

[0140] The second nozzle (160) can spray a preset amount of solvent at a preset speed under the control of the controller (11). In addition, 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 thereto.

[0141] At least one reservoir (171) is mounted in the drying chamber (170), and the drying chamber (170) can be moved in the vertical direction (Z) to be coupled to the lower end of the cartridge station (90) or separated 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), so that the sample and / or standard sample in the cartridge (100) can be eluted into the reservoir (171). In addition, the drying chamber (170) can be moved in the vertical direction (Z) to be coupled to the lower end of the reservoir processing unit (150) or separated from the lower end of the reservoir processing unit (150). When the drying chamber (170) is coupled to the lower part of the reservoir processing unit (150), the upper part of the reservoir (171) mounted in the drying chamber (170) is coupled to the second nozzle (160), so that the second nozzle (160) can inject solvent and gas into the reservoir (171).

[0142] Here, the reservoir (171) has a hollow cylindrical shape, as illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16. The upper surface of the reservoir (171) is open, so that 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 opened upper surface of the reservoir (171). A collection vial (173) is detachably coupled to the lower end of the reservoir (171) through a connector (172). The collection vial (173) is connected to the reservoir (171), so that the sample and / or standard sample in the reservoir (171) can flow into the collection vial (173). When the sample and / or standard sample is finally concentrated, the collection vial (173) is separated from the reservoir (171), thereby completing the pretreatment process. The solution in the collection vial (173) separated from the reservoir (171) can be analyzed using an analysis device.

[0143] The above drying chamber (170) includes a drying chamber movement actuator (174), a drying chamber body (175), a hot air source (176), a reservoir holder (178), and a reservoir rotation device (180).

[0144] The drying chamber movement actuator (174) is connected to the drying chamber body (175) and can move the drying chamber body (175) in the vertical direction (Z). For example, when the drying chamber movement actuator (174) moves the drying chamber body (175) upward in the vertical direction (Z), the upper end of the reservoir (171) mounted on the drying chamber (170) can be coupled to the cartridge (100) mounted on the cartridge station (90) or the second nozzle (160). When the drying chamber movement actuator (174) moves the drying chamber body (175) downward in the vertical direction (Z), the reservoir (171) mounted on the drying chamber (170) can be separated from the cartridge (100) mounted on the cartridge station (90) or the second nozzle (160).

[0145] The drying chamber body (175) has a hollow shape. The reservoir (171) is positioned within the drying chamber body (175) while being mounted on a 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 rotation 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 rotation device (180) so as to be rotated by the reservoir rotation device (180). Accordingly, the reservoir (171) and the collection vial (173) mounted on the reservoir holder (178) also rotate together with the reservoir holder (178).

[0146] 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 solution in the reservoir (171) and the collection vial (173). In this specification, the hot air source is exemplified as a solution concentration means for drying and concentrating the solution in the reservoir (171) and the collection vial (173), but the solution concentration means is not limited thereto, and an appropriate solution concentration means known to those skilled in the art may be used alternatively or additionally.

[0147] The drying chamber body (175) may be equipped with a level sensor (179). The level sensor (179) may detect the level of the solution in the reservoir (171) and transmit a signal thereto to the controller (11). The controller (11) may terminate the concentration of the solution when the 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 for which the concentration has been in progress reaches a set time.

[0148] The reservoir rotation device (180) is configured to rotate the reservoir (171) within the drying chamber body (175) via the reservoir holder (178). The reservoir rotation device (180) may include a housing (181), a reservoir rotation motor (182), a driving gear (184), and at least one driven gear (186).

[0149] The housing (181) is coupled to the lower surface of the drying chamber body (175) and protects at least one driven gear (186) therein.

[0150] The reservoir rotation motor (182) is configured to rotate a motor shaft, and a drive gear (184) is mounted on the motor shaft to rotate together with the motor shaft.

[0151] 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). In addition, a reservoir (171) (and a collection vial (173) coupled to the reservoir (171)) is mounted on the reservoir holder (178), so that the reservoir (171) rotates by the driven gear (186), and the solution within the reservoir (171) is dried and concentrated. One of the at least one driven gear (186) meshes with the drive gear (184) so ​​as to receive rotational power from the reservoir rotation motor (182).

[0152] The reservoir rinse drain unit (190) is located at the rear of the drying chamber (170) and moves in the vertical direction (Z) and is coupled to the lower end of the reservoir treatment body (151) to close the reservoir treatment body (151) or is separated from the reservoir treatment body (151). The reservoir rinse drain unit (190) includes a reservoir rinse drain actuator (192) for moving the reservoir rinse drain unit (190) in the vertical direction (Z). When the reservoir rinse drain actuator (192) raises the reservoir rinse drain unit (190) in the vertical direction (Z) and attaches it to the lower end of the reservoir treatment body (151), the solvent leaking from the second nozzle (160) leaks into a closed space within the treatment unit body (151) and is then discharged to the outside of the sample concentration device (210) through the second drain duct (154). Conversely, when the reservoir rinse drain actuator (192) lowers the reservoir rinse drain unit (190) in the vertical direction (Z) and detaches it from the lower end of the reservoir treatment body (151), the reservoir treatment unit (150) can move in the second direction (Y).

[0153]

[0154] Hereinafter, a preprocessing method according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0155] Figure 21 is a flowchart of a preprocessing method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] As illustrated in FIG. 21, a pretreatment method according to another embodiment of the present invention begins 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 transport 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), and the sample concentration device (210) includes a conditioning drain unit (140), a reservoir processing unit (150), a drying chamber (170), and a reservoir rinse drain unit (190).

[0157] When the above pretreatment system (10) is prepared, the pretreatment system (10) is operated through the controller (11). More specifically, the controller (11) controls the cartridge purification device (110) to couple the first nozzle (120) to the upper end of the cartridge (100) mounted on the cartridge station (90) (S300). That is, the first nozzle (120) is moved upwards of the cartridge station (90) by the purification device transport actuator (113), and then lowered in the vertical direction (Z) by the nozzle transport actuator (116) to be coupled to the upper end of the cartridge (100).

[0158] In addition, the controller (11) controls the conditioning drain unit (140) to couple the conditioning drain unit (140) to the lower portion of the cartridge (100) (S310). That is, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the conditioning drain unit (140) moves forward in the second direction (Y) by the conditioning drain unit movement actuator (146) and then rises in the vertical direction (Z) to couple the lower portion of the cartridge (100) to the cartridge drain port (142). In this state, the reservoir processing unit (150) is positioned at the rear in the second direction (Y), and the reservoir rinse drain unit (190) rises in the vertical direction (Z) to couple to the reservoir processing unit (150). That is, the reservoir processing unit (150) is in a standby state.

[0159] Here, steps S300 and S310 are not limited to the order illustrated in Fig. 21. That is, step S300 may be performed after step S310, or steps S300 and S310 may be performed simultaneously.

[0160] When the first nozzle (120) is coupled to the upper end of the cartridge (100) and the conditioning drain unit (140) is coupled to the lower end of the cartridge (100), the controller (11) injects a solvent into the cartridge (100) through the first nozzle (120) (S320). That is, the purification step of the cartridge (100) is performed. More specifically, by injecting the solvent into the cartridge (100) through the first nozzle (120), impurities, etc., within the cartridge (100) are removed and the beads (106) within the cartridge (100) are wetted. In addition, the solvent from which the impurities have been removed flows into the cartridge drain port (142) through the cartridge end (102) and is then discharged to the outside through the first drain duct (144). If necessary, a gas (e.g., nitrogen, etc.) may be injected into the cartridge (100) through the first nozzle (120).

[0161] When the purification step of the cartridge (100) is completed, the controller (11) separates the first nozzle (120) and the conditioning drain unit (140) from the cartridge (100) (S330). The first nozzle (120) rises in the vertical direction (Z), moves in the first direction (X) along the purification device transport rail (112) to be positioned above the nozzle waiting block (130), and then descends in the vertical direction (Z) to wait in the nozzle waiting block (130). Alternatively, the first nozzle (120) may rise in the vertical direction (Z) and then move in the first direction (X) along the purification device transport rail (112) to be positioned above the cartridge station (90). In addition, the conditioning drain unit (140) may move backward in the second direction (Y).

[0162] After that, the drying chamber (170) rises in the vertical direction (Z) and the reservoir (171) mounted in the drying chamber (170) is coupled to the lower end of the cartridge (100) (S340). In this case, a collection vial (173) is coupled to the lower end of the reservoir (171) via a connector (172). More specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 17, when the conditioning drain unit (140) is in a state of moving backward in the second direction (Y) and the reservoir processing unit (150) is coupled to the reservoir rinse drain unit (190) and is in a standby state, the drying chamber (170) is elevated in the vertical direction (Z) to the cartridge station (90) by the drying chamber movement actuator (174). In this case, the reservoir (171) mounted in the drying chamber (170) is coupled to the lower end of the cartridge (100).

[0163] In a state where the reservoir (171) is coupled to the lower part of the cartridge (100), the controller (11) controls the pipetting device (30) to inject a sample into the cartridge (100) (S350) and inject a standard sample into the cartridge (100) (S360). To this end, at least one first vial (66a) containing a sample requiring analysis and one second vial (66b) containing a standard sample having known properties such as components and concentration are placed in the vial tray (84) of the vial shaker (80), and the vial shaker (80) repeatedly shakes the first and second vials (66a, 66b) placed in the vial tray (84) along a preset orbit until the sample and / or standard sample are collected, thereby uniformly maintaining the properties of the sample and standard sample in the first and second vials (66a, 66b).

[0164] Meanwhile, if the sample and standard sample are injected into the same reservoir (171) and concentrated together, the characteristics of the effective ingredient in the sample, such as the concentration, can be inferred from the measured values ​​of the sample using the measured values ​​of the standard sample, whose characteristics, such as the composition and concentration, are known. Therefore, it is preferable that the sample and standard sample are injected into the same reservoir (171) and concentrated together.

[0165] Additionally, there is no particular restriction on the order in which the sample and standard sample are injected. However, it is preferable to inject the standard sample after the sample.

[0166] To collect a sample or standard sample, the pipette module (38) moves in a first direction (X) along the pipetting device transport rail (22), moves above the pipette tip tray (70) provided on the worktable (18), and descends in a vertical direction (Z) along the pipette guide frame (32) to mount a pipette tip (46) mounted on the pipette tip tray (70) on the mounting end (44). Thereafter, the pipette module (38) rises in a vertical direction (Z) along the pipette guide frame (32).

[0167] The above pipette module (38) moves in the first direction (X) along the pipetting device transport rail (22). In this state, the vial shaker (80) stops shaking the first and second vials (66a, 66b). Thereafter, the pipette module (38) moves above the first vial (66a) of the vial shaker (80) provided on the worktable (18), and descends in the vertical direction (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 pressed and released through the pipette push actuator (48), the pipette tip (46) mounted on the mounting end (44) is pushed downward and then pulled upward, so that 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 top of the pipette piston (42) two to three times. This prevents the phenomenon of the effective ingredient (206) (e.g., dioxin, etc.) in the sample from settling due to the difference in density, and allows the most uniform sample to be collected. Thereafter, the pipette module (38) rises in the vertical direction (Z) along the pipette guide frame (32), and the vial shaker (80) starts shaking the first and second vials (66a, 66b) placed on the vial tray (84) again along a preset orbit.

[0168] The above pipette module (38) moves in the first direction (X) along the pipetting device transport rail (22), moves above the cartridge station (90) provided on the worktable (18), and descends in the vertical direction (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 pressed through the pipette push actuator (48), the sample collected in the pipette tip (46) is injected into the cartridge (100). Thereafter, the pipette module (38) rises in the vertical direction (Z) along the pipette guide frame (32).

[0169] The above pipette module (38) moves in the first direction (X) along the pipetting device transport rail (22). In this state, the vial shaker (80) stops shaking the first and second vials (66a, 66b) again. Thereafter, the pipette module (38) moves above the second vial (66b) of the vial shaker (80) provided on the worktable (18), and descends in the vertical direction (Z) 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, when the top of the pipette piston (42) is pressed and released two to three times through the pipette push actuator (48), the pipette tip (46) mounted on the mounting end (44) is pushed downward and then pulled upward, and the standard sample in the second vial (66b) is collected. Thereafter, the pipette module (38) rises in the vertical direction (Z) along the pipette guide frame (32). If there are more samples left to be collected, the vial shaker (80) starts shaking the first and second vials (66a, 66b) placed on the vial tray (84) again along a preset orbit. In contrast, if there are no more samples left to be collected, the vial shaker (80) remains stopped.

[0170] The above pipette module (38) moves in the first direction (X) along the pipetting device transport rail (22) to move above the cartridge station (90) provided on the work table (18), and descends in the vertical direction (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 is introduced. In this state, when the upper end of the pipette piston (42) is pressed through the pipette push actuator (48), the standard sample collected in the pipette tip (46) is introduced into the cartridge (100). Thereafter, the pipette module (38) rises in the vertical direction (Z) along the pipette guide frame (32) and moves in the first direction (X) along the pipetting device transport rail (22) to move away from above the cartridge station (90).

[0171] The controller (11) controls the cartridge purification device (110) to re-attach the first nozzle (120) to the top of the cartridge (100) into which the sample and standard sample are loaded (S370). That is, the first nozzle (120) is moved upwards to the cartridge station (90) by the purification device transport actuator (113), and then lowered in the vertical direction (Z) by the nozzle transport actuator (116) to be coupled to the top of the cartridge (100) into which the sample and standard sample are loaded.

[0172] When the first nozzle (120) is re-attached to the top of the cartridge (100), the controller (11) re-injects the solvent into the cartridge (100) through the first nozzle (120) (S380). Accordingly, the solution (including the sample and standard sample) in the cartridge (100) is eluted into the reservoir (171). If necessary, a gas (e.g., nitrogen, etc.) may be injected into the cartridge (100) through the first nozzle (120).

[0173] If the solution in the cartridge (100) is eluted into the reservoir (171), the controller (11) separates the first nozzle (120) from the cartridge (100) and the reservoir (171) placed in the drying chamber (170) (S390). More specifically, the first nozzle (120) rises in the vertical direction (Z), moves in the first direction (X) along the purification device transport rail (112), is positioned above the nozzle waiting block (130), and then descends in the vertical direction (Z) and waits in the nozzle waiting block (130). Alternatively, the first nozzle (120) may rise in the vertical direction (Z), then move in the first direction (X) along the purification device transport rail (112), and be positioned at a position outside the cartridge station (90). Additionally, the drying chamber (170) is lowered in the vertical direction (Z) by the drying chamber movement actuator (174).

[0174] After that, the sample concentration step proceeds. For this purpose, the controller (11) couples the second nozzle (160) to the upper end of the reservoir (171) of the drying chamber (170) (S400). More specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the reservoir rinse drain unit (190) descends in the vertical direction (Z) and is separated 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 is coupled with the reservoir processing unit (150). Accordingly, the second nozzle (160) of the reservoir processing unit (150) is coupled to the upper end of the drying chamber (170).

[0175] In this state, the controller (11) dries the solution in the reservoir (171) (S410). As illustrated in FIG. 16, the drying of the solution in the reservoir (171) can be accomplished by rotating the reservoir (171) and using hot air (200). More specifically, under the control of the controller (11), the reservoir rotation motor (182) rotates and transmits the rotational force to the reservoir holder (178) through the driving gear (184) and at least one driven gear (186), thereby rotating the reservoir (171) mounted on the reservoir holder (178). In this state, the hot air source (176) blows hot air (200) to the drying chamber body (175) to dry and concentrate the solution in the reservoir (171).

[0176] In addition, 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 illustrated in FIG. 16, the lower end of the solvent injection line (162) can be bent toward the wall of the reservoir (171) when the second nozzle (160) is coupled to the reservoir (171) to inject the solvent (202) of the solvent supply source toward the wall of the reservoir (171). Accordingly, the active ingredient (206) adhered to the wall of the reservoir (171) can be washed away by the solvent (202) injected toward the wall, thereby allowing the amount of the active ingredient to be accurately measured. Additionally, the lower end of the gas injection line (164) can be bent toward the wall of the reservoir (171) while the second nozzle (160) is coupled to the reservoir (171) to inject gas (204) from the gas supply source toward the wall of the reservoir (171). The gas (204) can help dry the solvent (202), increase the concentration of the solution, and increase the concentration rate.

[0177] During the concentration step of the sample, the level sensor (179) can detect the level of the solution in the reservoir (171) and transmit a signal thereto to the controller (11). The controller (11) can terminate the concentration of the solution when the level of the solution in the reservoir (171) reaches a set level. Alternatively, the controller (11) can terminate the concentration of the solution when the concentration time reaches a set time.

[0178] When the solution in the reservoir (171) is finally concentrated, the pretreatment process is completed by separating the collection vial (173) from the reservoir (171), and the solution in the collection vial (173) separated from the reservoir (171) can be analyzed through an analysis device.

[0179] Meanwhile, after the concentration of the solution is completed, if necessary, the controller (11) may return to step S340. In this case, steps S340 to S410 may be repeated several times to obtain a sufficiently concentrated solution.

[0180]

[0181] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and includes all changes that can be easily modified and deemed equivalent by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains from the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. In the preprocessing system for measuring effective ingredients, A cartridge station having at least one cartridge loaded; A pipetting device configured to inject a sample or standard sample into the interior of at least one cartridge; A vial shaker configured to shake the first and second vials, wherein at least one first vial containing a sample to be analyzed and a second vial containing a standard sample having known properties including components and concentrations are placed therein; A drying chamber having at least one reservoir mounted thereon and configured to dry a solution within the at least one reservoir; and A reservoir treatment unit configured to selectively couple to at least one reservoir and to inject a solvent into the at least one reservoir; Includes, A pretreatment system for measuring an active ingredient, wherein the upper portion of at least one reservoir is selectively coupled to the lower portion of at least one cartridge, each reservoir being fluidly connected to a corresponding cartridge, and a collection vial being removably coupled to the lower portion of each reservoir, the collection vial being fluidly connected to the corresponding reservoir.

2. In paragraph 1, A pretreatment system for measuring an active ingredient further comprising a pipetting device transport device configured to transport the pipetting device between at least a vial shaker and a cartridge station.

3. In paragraph 1, The above pipetting device Pipette module body; A pipette piston that is relatively movable in a vertical direction with respect to the pipette module body; and A pipette push actuator configured to move vertically and press the top of the pipette piston; A pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients including:

4. In paragraph 3, A pretreatment system in which the pipette push actuator presses the upper part of the pipette piston two to three times to collect a sample while the pipette tip mounted on the lower part of the pipette piston is immersed in the sample in the first vial.

5. In paragraph 3, The pipette piston is a pretreatment system for measuring active ingredients that is elastically mounted on the pipette module body.

6. In paragraph 1, A pretreatment system for measuring an active ingredient further comprising a cartridge purification device selectively coupled to an upper portion of at least one cartridge and configured to inject a solvent into the at least one cartridge.

7. In paragraph 6, A pretreatment system for measuring an effective ingredient, wherein the cartridge purification device is further configured to inject gas into at least one cartridge.

8. In paragraph 6, A pretreatment system for measuring an active ingredient further comprising a conditioning drain unit configured to selectively couple to the lower end of at least one cartridge and to discharge solvent that has flowed out of the cartridge by being injected from the cartridge purification device.

9. In paragraph 1, A pretreatment system further comprising a vial capping device configured to separate a vial cap from at least one of the first and second vials placed on the vial shaker or to bind a vial to at least one of the first and second vials.

10. In paragraph 9, Vial capping device A vial cap gripper comprising a pair of fingers capable of moving toward each other to grasp a vial cap or moving away from each other to release a vial cap; A pair of vial grip fingers that can move toward each other to grasp a vial or move away from each other to release a vial; and A cap gripper transport actuator that moves the vial cap gripper in a vertical direction; A preprocessing system including:

11. In paragraph 1, A pretreatment system containing beads that adsorb impurities within the above cartridge.

12. In paragraph 1, A pretreatment system for measuring an active ingredient further comprising a reservoir rotation device operatively connected to at least one reservoir mounted in the drying chamber and configured to rotate the at least one reservoir.

13. In paragraph 1, A pretreatment system for measuring an effective component, wherein the reservoir treatment unit is further configured to inject gas into at least one reservoir.

14. In paragraph 1, A pretreatment system further comprising a hot air source for supplying hot air to the drying chamber.

15. In paragraph 1, The above reservoir treatment unit is a pretreatment system configured to spray solvent toward the wall of at least one reservoir.

16. In paragraph 1, A pretreatment system for measuring an active ingredient, further comprising a level sensor configured to measure the level of a solution within at least one reservoir.

17. In paragraph 16, A pretreatment system for measuring an active ingredient, further comprising a controller 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 the preprocessing method for measuring effective ingredients, A step of coupling at least one reservoir mounted in a drying chamber to the lower portion of at least one cartridge mounted in a cartridge station; A step of injecting a sample into at least one cartridge using a pipetting device; A step of injecting a standard sample into at least one cartridge using the pipetting device; A step of eluting the sample and standard sample within at least one cartridge into at least one reservoir; A step of separating at least one reservoir mounted in a drying chamber from at least one cartridge; and A step of drying the solution within at least one reservoir using a drying chamber; A pretreatment method for measuring effective ingredients including .

19. In paragraph 18, A pretreatment method in which beads that adsorb impurities are contained within the above cartridge.

20. In paragraph 18, Further comprising a step of collecting a sample with a pipetting device prior to the step of injecting the sample into at least one cartridge, A pretreatment method comprising the step of collecting a sample using a pipetting device, wherein the step includes pressing the top of a pipette piston that is vertically movable relative to the pipette module body two to three times.

21. In paragraph 18, Before the step of combining at least one reservoir mounted in the drying chamber to the lower part of at least one cartridge mounted in the above cartridge station. A step of coupling a cartridge purification device to the upper portion of at least one cartridge; and A step of injecting a solvent into at least one cartridge using a cartridge purification device; A pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients including:

22. In paragraph 21, Before the step of injecting the solvent into at least one cartridge with a cartridge purification device; A pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient, further comprising the step of coupling a conditioning drain unit to the lower portion of at least one cartridge.

23. In paragraph 18, The step of eluting the sample and standard sample in at least one cartridge into at least one reservoir A step of coupling a cartridge purification device to the upper portion of at least one cartridge; and A step of injecting a solvent into at least one cartridge using a cartridge purification device; A pretreatment method for measuring effective ingredients including .

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

25. In paragraph 18, A pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient, wherein the step of drying a solution within at least one reservoir in a drying chamber is performed by blowing hot air into the drying chamber.

26. In paragraph 18, A pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient, wherein the step of drying a solution within at least one reservoir by a drying chamber comprises the step of rotating said at least one reservoir by a reservoir rotation device operatively connected to the reservoir.

27. In paragraph 25 or 26, The step of drying the solution within at least one reservoir by means of a drying chamber A step of coupling a reservoir processing unit to at least one reservoir; and A step of injecting a solvent into at least one reservoir using a reservoir treatment unit; A pretreatment method for measuring active ingredients including:

28. In paragraph 27, A pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient, wherein the step of drying the solution within at least one reservoir with a drying chamber further comprises the step of injecting gas into the at least one reservoir with a reservoir treatment unit.

29. In paragraph 18, A pretreatment method for measuring an active ingredient, further comprising the step of terminating the drying step in response to the level of the solution in at least one reservoir reaching a set level by the controller.

30. In paragraph 18, A pretreatment method for measuring an effective ingredient, further comprising a step of terminating the drying step in response to the time during which the drying step has been performed reaching a set time, by a controller.

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