Chromatographic column system and maintenance method therefor

Abstract

The present application provides a chromatographic column system and a maintenance method therefor. The chromatographic column system has a first state, a second state, and a third state, wherein in the first state, a lifting mechanism is connected to an upper end member, and the upper end member is separated from a column drum; in a second state, the lifting mechanism is connected to the upper end member, and the upper end member is located at a top position or a non-top position of the column drum and is connected to the column drum by means of locking devices; and in a third state, the lifting mechanism is separated from the upper end member, and the upper end member is connected to the column drum by means of the locking devices. By means of the chromatographic column system provided in the present application, the chromatographic column system can switch among the first state, the second state and the third state, thereby facilitating the maintenance of chromatographic columns. Moreover, on the basis of the arrangement, one frame stand can be conveniently adapted to different chromatographic columns and can maintain the different chromatographic columns, thereby helping to improve work efficiency and reduce work costs.

Description

Chromatographic column systems and their maintenance methods

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application filed on June 21, 2024, with application number 202410808416.X, entitled "A Chromatographic Column System and a Maintenance Method Thereof", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to a chromatographic column system and its maintenance method, belonging to the field of column chromatography technology. Background Technology

[0004] In the chromatographic process of separation and purification in biopharmaceuticals, different target products require different production processes, necessitating the use of packed beds with varying inner diameters and heights, such as diameters ranging from 50mm to 2000mm and heights from 10mm to 90mm. Furthermore, different column packing materials are used, including affinity packing, anion exchange packing, cation exchange packing, and molecular sieve packing. Typically, the packing of empty columns and equipment maintenance are performed directly within the workshop where the equipment is located. However, in current pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, there is a need for the same workshop to be used for the production of different products. For example, in CDMO (Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization) production lines, there is a need to use packed beds with different inner diameters and heights, and different column packing materials, within the same workshop.

[0005] Currently, chromatographic columns on the market consist of components such as the column tube, upper end piece, lower end piece, drive section, compression section, and support frame. These components are directly integrated onto the column, forming a one-piece structure. The drive section, compression section, and support frame of this one-piece structure are generally made of metal and are only used during packing and equipment maintenance. This increases the overall weight and manufacturing cost of the one-piece structure column, placing high demands on the load-bearing capacity of the production workshop. Furthermore, the one-piece structure column achieves packing and equipment maintenance by controlling the up-and-down movement of the piston at the upper end. The compression section, such as the screw, reaches its maximum height when it moves upwards, further increasing the overall height of the one-piece structure column and requiring significant height considerations in the production workshop. Due to the high weight and height of the one-piece structure column, large-scale one-piece columns are difficult to move. Packing and equipment maintenance are performed directly in the production workshop where the equipment is located, requiring sufficient space for installation and maintenance. During equipment maintenance, the one-piece structure column is unusable for extended periods, resulting in prolonged downtime and reduced operational efficiency in the production workshop.

[0006] Therefore, a separate column packing room can be set up for packing empty chromatographic columns and equipment maintenance, reducing the load-bearing, height, and area requirements of the production workshop and improving its operational efficiency. Furthermore, a chromatographic column system is needed to accommodate the maintenance of columns with different packed bed inner diameters and heights. Additionally, when necessary, the column can be packed and maintained in the column packing and maintenance room and then moved to the production workshop for separation and purification.

[0007] Chromatographic column maintenance refers to the regular cleaning and replacement of column parts, including the sieve plates, distribution discs, valves, and sealing rings at the top and bottom of the column. A chromatographic column is also called a chromatography column.

[0008] Chinese patent application publication number CN102946959A describes a chromatography column system and a method for column maintenance, which facilitates maintenance by raising the space between the base plate and the floor. When directly lifting the column barrel and base plate for maintenance, the operator works under a heavy load, posing a safety risk. When the column barrel is first rotated sideways and then the base plate is raised via an adapter for maintenance, the side rotation increases the floor space required for column maintenance. Column barrels are typically made of heavy materials such as stainless steel, glass, or acrylic. If the column barrel is too heavy, there is a risk of deformation of the side-rotation connectors, which could potentially cause the equipment to tip over or be damaged.

[0009] Chinese Patent Application Publication No. CN103505909A discloses a chromatographic column frame and a method for maintaining and packing the column. The column frame achieves separation of a first or second end unit of the column by controlling the vertical movement of an adapter rod. The column includes an adapter rod connected to the adapter assembly, the adapter rod being arranged to extend through an opening in the first end element, and a retainer structure being arranged to releasably retain the adapter rod. When the column is heavy and the adapter rod is threaded, disassembly of the adapter rod from the retainer structure can easily lead to misalignment or thread damage between the adapter rod and the retainer structure. When the column is large-diameter and the adapter acts directly on the upper end, the force-bearing area during axial compression of the column is small. When the packing reaches the same compressive force, its annular cross-sectional area is small, resulting in greater deformation. As the force diffuses from the center to the periphery, the packing material distributed at the column edge may not be sufficiently compressed due to the large column diameter, potentially leading to uneven distribution.

[0010] Therefore, a chromatographic column system is also needed to avoid the risks of operators working under heavy loads, deformation of the column barrel side-rotating connector, easy damage between the adapter rod and the retainer structure, and uneven distribution of packing material under axial compression. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The technical problem to be solved by this application is to provide a structurally stable chromatographic column system.

[0012] This application provides a chromatography system, including a chromatography column and a support for connecting the chromatography column. The chromatography column includes a column barrel and upper and lower end pieces respectively located on the upper and lower sides of the column barrel. The upper end piece is connected to the top of the column barrel by a locking device. The top of the upper end piece has a positioning hole for a detachable connector II for positioning with the column lifting mechanism. The lower end piece is connected to the bottom of the column barrel by a detachable connector I. The support includes a lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the upper end piece. The lifting mechanism includes a pair of telescopic uprights and a pair of lifting rods. The bottom ends of the two lifting rods are connected to the lifting surface. A positioning device is provided between the column support pieces. The positioning device can position chromatography columns of different specifications at appropriate positions on the support piece for connecting the chromatography column, so that the lifting mechanism can accurately position the upper end piece of chromatography columns of different diameters at appropriate positions.

[0013] In some embodiments, the locking device includes a locking rod fixed to the top surface of the upper end piece, the locking rod having a threaded first thread, the locking rod passing through the connecting flange and being limited by a nut, and the connecting flange also having a threaded second thread for connecting the column barrel.

[0014] In some embodiments, the detachable coupling is a bolt and a nut.

[0015] In some embodiments, the locking device includes screw holes located at corresponding positions on the upper end piece and the column barrel, and the two screw holes are fixed by bolt connection.

[0016] In some embodiments, the detachable connector 2 is disposed on the column holder and is used to connect the upper end of the column.

[0017] In some embodiments, the positioning device is provided with positioning holes for chromatography columns of different specifications, and the corresponding lower end piece of the chromatography column also has three corresponding positioning pin holes. Based on the principle that three points determine a circle, it ensures that the lower end piece is concentric with the support of the chromatography column.

[0018] This application also provides maintenance methods for the above-mentioned chromatography system, including any one of the following: column transfer method, compatibility method for columns of different diameters, compatibility method for columns of different heights, maintenance method for the lower end of the column, and maintenance method for the upper end of the column.

[0019] In some embodiments, the method includes step 1), a transport method for the chromatographic column:

[0020] Step 1.1): Move the transport cart under the chromatographic column;

[0021] Step 1.2), use a transport cart to support the chromatographic column;

[0022] Step 1.3): Move the chromatographic column to the designated position using a transport cart;

[0023] Step 1.4): Separate the chromatographic column from the transport cart;

[0024] Step 1.5) Remove the transport cart from under the chromatographic column.

[0025] In some embodiments, the method includes step 2), a compatible method for chromatographic columns of different diameters:

[0026] Step 2.1): Fix the positioning device in the appropriate position, and then move the chromatographic column under the stand; or move the chromatographic column under the stand, and then fix the positioning device in the appropriate position.

[0027] Step 2.2): Align the positioning devices between the chromatographic column and the stand;

[0028] Step 2.3) Perform column and stand positioning.

[0029] In some embodiments, the method includes step 3), a method for compatibility of chromatographic columns of different heights:

[0030] Step 3.1): Move the lifting surface of the lifting mechanism above the chromatographic column;

[0031] Step 3.2): Position the chromatographic column and the stand;

[0032] Step 3.3): The upper end piece of the chromatographic column remains connected to the locking device, and then the upper end piece is connected to the lifting surface of the lifting mechanism. The upper end piece assembly and the lifting surface of the lifting mechanism are connected by threads. Operation: Drive the column mount motor to lower the lifting surface of the lifting mechanism into the positioning groove of the upper end piece (the upper end piece has a corresponding positioning groove on the lifting surface to ensure concentricity). Then, fix the two together by threads. Next, remove the column locking device, leaving only one fixed connection between the upper end piece and the lifting surface. Then, drive the column mount motor to raise and lower the lifting surface to achieve different column loading height requirements. Once the defined height is reached, connect the upper end piece to the locking device and lock it, fixing the upper end piece to the column barrel. Then, remove the bolts between the lifting surface and the upper end piece, leaving only one fixed connection between the upper end piece and the column barrel. Finally, drive the motor to disengage the lifting surface from the column barrel.

[0033] Step 3.4) The lifting mechanism controls the upper part to move to different heights.

[0034] In some embodiments, the method includes step 4), a method for maintaining the lower end of the chromatographic column:

[0035] Step 4.1), perform the following steps in any order: disassemble the detachable connector one between the column barrel and the lower end part; connect the upper end part of the chromatographic column to the detachable connector two, and then connect the detachable connector two to the lifting surface of the lifting mechanism; lock the upper end part in any part of the chromatographic column;

[0036] Step 4.2) The lifting mechanism lifts the column barrel and the upper part, separating the lower part from the rest of the chromatographic column;

[0037] Step 4.3) Perform maintenance on the lower-end components.

[0038] In some embodiments, the method includes step 5), a method for maintaining the upper part of the chromatographic column:

[0039] Step 5.1) Connect the upper part to the lifting mechanism via the second detachable connector, and then unlock the locking device; or unlock the locking device and then connect the upper part to the lifting mechanism via the second detachable connector.

[0040] Step 5.2): The lifting mechanism lifts the upper part, separating it from the rest of the chromatographic column.

[0041] Step 5.3) Perform maintenance on the upper part of the chromatographic column.

[0042] In some embodiments, the maintenance method further includes a column positioning method, wherein a first detector and a second detector are provided on the stand, a first distance between the stand and the column is detected by the first detector, a second distance between the stand and the column is detected by the second detector, and the position adjustment of the column is performed based on the first distance and the second distance.

[0043] This application's design makes column installation and maintenance safer, reduces overall weight and height, lowers manufacturing costs, facilitates relocation, and reduces the installation and maintenance area. The support frame is compatible with the maintenance of various packed bed inner diameters and heights of chromatographic columns. After packing and equipment maintenance in the column packing and maintenance workshop, the column can be moved to the production workshop for separation and purification, avoiding risks such as operators working under heavy loads, deformation of column barrel side-rotation connectors, easy damage between adapter rods and retainer structures, and uneven packing pressure distribution during axial compression.

[0044] This chromatographic column system adopts a separate design for the column and the support. A positioning device is installed between the column and the support to which it can be connected. The positioning device can position columns of different specifications in appropriate positions on the support to which they can be connected. It can realize the lifting and lowering of the upper parts of the columns of different specifications. The weight and height of the drive part, compression part and support frame that were originally equipped separately for multiple integrated chromatographic columns are reduced to the configuration of multiple integrated chromatographic columns. This makes the total weight of the columns lower, the total height lower, the manufacturing cost lower, and the movement more convenient. It meets the needs of being able to move to the production workshop for separation and purification after the column packing and maintenance workshop has carried out packing and equipment maintenance.

[0045] This application also provides a method for maintaining a chromatographic column system, comprising the following steps.

[0046] A chromatographic column system is provided, including a stand and a chromatographic column. The stand includes a lifting mechanism. The chromatographic column includes a column barrel and an upper end member and a lower end member respectively disposed on the upper and lower sides of the column barrel. The lower end member is connected to the bottom of the column barrel through a detachable connector one. The upper end member is connected to the lifting mechanism through a detachable connector two. The upper end member is also detachably connected to the column barrel through a locking device.

[0047] The maintenance method further includes at least one of the following steps: connecting the lifting mechanism to the upper part through the detachable connector two, and raising or lowering the upper part through the lifting mechanism; connecting the lifting mechanism to the upper part through the detachable connector two, connecting the upper part to the column barrel through the locking device, wherein the upper part is located at the top or non-top position of the column barrel, and raising or lowering the upper part and the column barrel as a whole through the lifting mechanism.

[0048] In some embodiments, a first detector, a second detector, and a third detector are provided on the stand for detecting the relative distance between the chromatographic column and the stand. The first detector is located in a first direction of the stand, and the third detector is located in a second direction of the stand. The first direction and the second direction are not parallel and do not coincide. A moving mechanism is provided at the bottom of the stand or the chromatographic column.

[0049] The maintenance method also includes an alignment method for the stage and column, the alignment method including an automatic alignment step, the automatic alignment step including,

[0050] Obtain the first distance measured by the first detector, and obtain the movement distance of the moving mechanism in the first direction based on the first distance;

[0051] The third distance measured by the third detector is obtained, and the movement stroke of the moving mechanism in the second direction is obtained based on the third distance;

[0052] Drive the moving mechanism to move.

[0053] In some embodiments, a second determination step is performed after the automatic alignment step, the second determination step including...

[0054] The system acquires a first distance measured by a first detector and determines whether the first distance is within a first preset distance range; it acquires a second distance measured by a second detector and determines whether the second distance is within a second preset distance range; it acquires a third distance measured by a third detector and determines whether the third distance is within a third preset distance range.

[0055] If any one of the first, second, and third preset distance ranges is not met, the automatic alignment step is executed again.

[0056] In some embodiments, a first determination step is performed before the automatic alignment step, the first determination step including...

[0057] Obtain the first distance and the third distance, and determine whether the first distance is within the range of the first threshold and whether the third distance is within the range of the third threshold;

[0058] If all conditions are met, then the automatic alignment step is performed.

[0059] This application also provides a chromatographic column system, comprising,

[0060] A platform, including a lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the upper component, the lifting mechanism including a telescopic upright and a lifting rod; and

[0061] A chromatographic column includes a column barrel and an upper end piece and a lower end piece respectively disposed on the upper and lower sides of the column barrel. The lower end piece is connected to the bottom of the column barrel through a detachable connector one, and the top of the upper end piece is provided with a detachable connector two.

[0062] The chromatographic column system has a first state, a second state, and a third state. In the first state, the lifting mechanism is connected to the upper end member, and the upper end member is separated from the column barrel. In the second state, the lifting mechanism is connected to the upper end member, and the upper end member is located at the top or a non-top position of the column barrel and is connected to the column barrel through a locking device. In the third state, the lifting mechanism is separated from the upper end member, and the upper end member is connected to the top of the column barrel through a locking device.

[0063] In some embodiments, the locking device includes a connecting flange having a second thread and being connected to the column barrel through the second thread; and a locking rod fixed to the top surface of the upper end piece and having a first thread, the locking rod passing through the connecting flange and being limited by the engagement of a nut with the first thread.

[0064] In the first state, the lifting mechanism drives the upper part to rise and fall to a first position; in the second state, the locking device connects the upper part and the column barrel in the first position, where the first position is either the top position or a non-top position of the column barrel.

[0065] In some embodiments, the lifting rod is provided with a lifting surface, the lifting rod and the upper end face of the upper end member of the chromatographic column are opposite each other, and the lifting surface is detachably connected to the upper end member through the detachable connector II.

[0066] In some embodiments, the lifting surface is an annular ring concentric with the upper end face of the chromatographic column, and the radius of the lifting surface is between 1 / 3 and 2 / 3 of the radius of the upper end face of the chromatographic column.

[0067] In some embodiments, the stand is provided with a positioning device, which has a plurality of positioning hole groups of different specifications to accommodate chromatographic columns of different diameters.

[0068] In some embodiments, the positioning device further includes a positioning platform, wherein the positioning hole group is disposed on the positioning platform; and a plurality of positioning pins for cooperating with the positioning hole group to achieve positioning of the stage and the chromatographic column.

[0069] Each positioning hole group includes three positioning holes to achieve concentric positioning of the stand and the chromatographic column. Two of the three positioning holes are round holes and one is a waist hole.

[0070] In some embodiments, the stand includes a first support portion on which a first detector is disposed; and a second support portion forming a positioning space with the first support portion for positioning the chromatographic column, wherein a second detector is disposed on the second support portion.

[0071] The first detector and the second detector are arranged symmetrically about the center of the positioning space. The first detector is used to detect a first distance between the first support and the chromatographic column located in the positioning space, and the second detector is used to detect a second distance between the second support and the chromatographic column located in the positioning space.

[0072] This application also provides a method for cruise positioning of a chromatographic column, which includes the following steps.

[0073] A chromatographic column system is provided, including a stand and a chromatographic column. The stand includes a lifting mechanism. The chromatographic column includes a column barrel and an upper end member and a lower end member respectively disposed on the upper and lower sides of the column barrel. The lower end member is connected to the bottom of the column barrel through a detachable connector one. The upper end member is connected to the lifting mechanism through a detachable connector two. The upper end member is also detachably connected to the column barrel through a locking device.

[0074] The cruise positioning method further includes at least one of the following steps: connecting the lifting mechanism to the upper part through the detachable connector two, and raising or lowering the upper part through the lifting mechanism; connecting the lifting mechanism to the upper part through the detachable connector two, connecting the upper part to the column barrel through the locking device, wherein the upper part is located at the top or non-top position of the column barrel, and raising or lowering the upper part and the column barrel as a whole through the lifting mechanism.

[0075] In some embodiments, a first detector, a second detector, and a third detector are provided on the stand for detecting the relative distance between the chromatographic column and the stand. The first detector is located in a first direction of the stand, and the third detector is located in a second direction of the stand. The first direction and the second direction are not parallel and do not coincide. A moving mechanism is provided at the bottom of the stand or the chromatographic column.

[0076] The cruise positioning method further includes an alignment method for the stage and the chromatographic column, the alignment method including an automatic alignment step, the automatic alignment step including,

[0077] Obtain the first distance measured by the first detector, and obtain the movement distance of the moving mechanism in the first direction based on the first distance;

[0078] The third distance measured by the third detector is obtained, and the movement stroke of the moving mechanism in the second direction is obtained based on the third distance;

[0079] Drive the moving mechanism to move.

[0080] In some embodiments, a second determination step is performed after the automatic alignment step, the second determination step including...

[0081] The system acquires a first distance measured by a first detector and determines whether the first distance is within a first preset distance range; it acquires a second distance measured by a second detector and determines whether the second distance is within a second preset distance range; it acquires a third distance measured by a third detector and determines whether the third distance is within a third preset distance range.

[0082] If any one of the first, second, and third preset distance ranges is not met, the automatic alignment step is executed again.

[0083] In some embodiments, a first determination step is performed before the automatic alignment step, the first determination step including...

[0084] Obtain the first distance and the third distance, and determine whether the first distance is within the range of the first threshold and whether the third distance is within the range of the third threshold;

[0085] If all conditions are met, then the automatic alignment step is performed.

[0086] The chromatographic column system and its maintenance method provided in this application allow for convenient maintenance of the chromatographic column system. Attached Figure Description

[0087] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0088] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a chromatographic column system.

[0089] Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary diagram of the mating position between the upper end of the chromatographic column and the second detachable connector.

[0090] Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of the detachable connection between the lower end of the chromatographic column and the mobile trolley.

[0091] Figure 4 shows an exemplary side view of the stand.

[0092] Figure 5 illustrates an exemplary front view of a chromatography column system.

[0093] Figure 6 illustrates a schematic diagram of a locking device.

[0094] Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary diagram of the engagement of a detachable connector.

[0095] Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary diagram of the connection between the detachable connector 2 and the upper part.

[0096] Figure 9 illustrates an exemplary half-sectional view of the detachable connector 2 connected to the upper end piece.

[0097] Figure 10 shows an exemplary structural diagram of the platform.

[0098] Figure 11 shows an exemplary structural schematic diagram of the positioning device.

[0099] Figure 12 is an exemplary schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the positioning hole group on the positioning device.

[0100] Figure 13 illustrates an exemplary connection diagram between the detachable connector 2 and the lifting rod.

[0101] Figure 14 illustrates an exemplary connection diagram of the upper end piece, column barrel, and lower end piece in a chromatographic column.

[0102] Figure 15 illustrates an exemplary diagram of the connection between the test bench and the chromatographic column.

[0103] Figure 16 illustrates an exemplary diagram of the connection between the platform and the upper end piece and the column barrel.

[0104] Figure 17 illustrates an exemplary connection diagram between the platform and the upper component.

[0105] Figure 18 illustrates a schematic diagram of the lifting member driving the upper part to move.

[0106] Figure 19 illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of the column barrel and upper end piece of a chromatographic column being lifted by a lifting member and separated from the lower end piece.

[0107] Figure 20 illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of the upper part of the chromatographic column being lifted by the lifting member and separated from the column barrel.

[0108] Figure 21 is an exemplary schematic diagram showing the relative movement of the column barrel and upper end piece of the chromatographic column with the support platform and lower end piece after the column is lifted by the lifting member.

[0109] Figure 22 illustrates an exemplary diagram showing the relative movement of the support frame and column barrel after the upper part of the chromatographic column is lifted by the lifting member.

[0110] Figure 23 illustrates the positions of the first detector, the second detector, and the point detector.

[0111] Figure 24 shows an exemplary top view of the installation positions of the first detector and the second detector.

[0112] Figure 25 illustrates a schematic diagram of the spacings L1, L2, and L3.

[0113] Figure 26 illustrates a schematic diagram of the spacings L1 and L2.

[0114] Figure 27 illustrates a schematic diagram of the steps of an alignment method for a chromatographic column system.

[0115] Figure 28 illustrates a schematic diagram of the specific implementation process of the alignment method for a chromatographic column system.

[0116] The following are the reference numerals for the components in the accompanying drawings: chromatographic column 1, locking device 1-1, locking rod 1-1-1, thread one 1-1-2, thread two 1-1-3, connecting flange 1-1-4, detachable connector two 1-2, upper end piece 1-3, column barrel 1-4, detachable connector one 1-5, lower end piece 1-6, positioning device 1-7, positioning platform 1-7-1, positioning hole group 1-7-2, positioning hole 1-7-2-1, moving trolley 1-8, stand 2, lifting mechanism 2-1, lifting rod 2-2, lifting surface 2-3, telescopic upright 2-4, connecting bracket 2-4-1, first support part 2-5, second support part 2-6, positioning space 2-7, first detector 2-8, second detector 2-9, third detector 2-10, limiting block 2-11. Detailed Implementation

[0117] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application. In addition, it should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only for illustration and explanation of this application and are not intended to limit this application. In this application, unless otherwise stated, directional terms such as "up," "down," "left," and "right" generally refer to up, down, left, and right in the actual use or working state of the device, specifically the drawing directions in the accompanying drawings.

[0118] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature.

[0119] This application provides a chromatographic column system and its maintenance method, which are described in detail below. It should be noted that the order of description of the following embodiments is not intended to limit the preferred order of the embodiments of this application. Furthermore, the descriptions of each embodiment have their own emphasis; parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment can be referred to in the relevant descriptions of other embodiments.

[0120] Existing chromatographic columns 1 and their supports 2 are usually designed as a single unit, resulting in a high overall system weight. Furthermore, this integrated design necessitates a separate support 2 for each column 1, making the support 2 unsuitable for different columns 1, thus increasing operating costs in terms of time and price.

[0121] Referring to Figure 1, an embodiment of this application provides a chromatographic column system comprising a stand 2 and a chromatographic column 1. Through the separate design of the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1, i.e., the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1 are two independent parts that can be separated from each other, they cooperate during use and can be disassembled after use. This allows one stand 2 to be used with different chromatographic columns 1, thereby improving efficiency and reducing costs.

[0122] Referring to Figure 5, the chromatographic column 1 includes a column barrel 1-4 and upper end pieces 1-3 and 1-6 respectively located on the upper and lower sides of the column barrel 1-4. During use, the upper end piece 1-3 needs to move up and down along the column barrel 1-4 in its height direction to compress the packing material inside. Depending on the actual needs, the upper end piece 1-3 may ultimately be positioned at different heights within the column barrel 1-4. For example, after compression, the upper end piece 1-3 may be positioned at the top of the column barrel 1-4, or it may be positioned at other non-top positions within the column barrel 1-4, such as a position a certain distance below the top.

[0123] In addition, the upper part 1-3 may also be provided with a fluid interface (not shown) to inject drug solution or other fluids into the column barrel 1-4 during the actual use of the chromatographic column 1.

[0124] Please refer to Figure 5. The stand 2 includes a lifting mechanism 2-1 for raising and lowering the upper part 1-3. For other existing chromatographic column systems, the lifting mechanism 2-1 is located entirely above the chromatographic column 1, so a large space needs to be reserved above the chromatographic column 1 when lifting.

[0125] In the embodiments of this application, the lifting mechanism 2-1 may include a telescopic upright 2-4 and a lifting rod 2-2. At least a portion of the telescopic upright 2-4 is positioned below the top of the chromatographic column 1. A connecting bracket 2-4-1 is formed on the telescopic upright 2-4, and the lifting rod 2-2 is disposed on the connecting bracket 2-4-1. By extending or retracting the telescopic upright 2-4, the lifting rod 2-2 can be raised or lowered. The lifting rod 2-2 is used to connect to the chromatographic column 1 to raise or lower the chromatographic column 1 or its components.

[0126] For example, referring to Figure 10, the stand 2 includes a first support portion 2-5 and a second support portion 2-6, forming a positioning space 2-7 between the first support portion 2-5 and the second support portion 2-6. The positioning space 2-7 is used for positioning and accommodating the chromatographic column 1. For example, a positioning device 1-7 (described later) can be provided at the positioning space 2-7. The aforementioned telescopic uprights 2-4 are two in number, respectively disposed in the first support portion 2-5 and the second support portion 2-6. The lifting rods 2-2 are located in the middle of the two telescopic uprights 2-4. Here, the number of lifting rods 2-2 can be four. However, in other embodiments, the number of telescopic uprights 2-4 and lifting rods 2-2 may differ from the aforementioned example. The example in this embodiment does not constitute an undue limitation.

[0127] As another example, referring to Figure 10, a limiting block 2-11 is provided on the stand 2. For example, the limiting block 2-11 can be provided on the first support 2-5 and the second support 2-6 respectively, and the limiting block 2-11 can be arranged opposite to each other. Referring to Figure 20, in use, the limiting block 2-11 can be held against the lower side of the chromatographic column 1, thereby preventing the stand 2 from rising relative to the chromatographic column 1.

[0128] Here, the first support portion 2-5 and the second support portion 2-6 can be an integral structure or a separate structure. For example, in Figure 10, the first support portion 2-5 and the second support portion 2-6 are arranged opposite each other and their ends on the same side are connected to each other, thereby forming a roughly U-shaped opening space between the first support portion 2-5 and the second support portion 2-6. Of course, the example in this embodiment does not constitute an undue limitation.

[0129] Therefore, unlike the prior art where the main components of the lifting mechanism 2-1 are all located at the top of the chromatographic column 1, in this embodiment, when the chromatographic column 1 or its components are raised or lowered, the lifting is driven by the telescopic uprights 2-4 located on both sides of the chromatographic column 2. Compared with the scheme where the telescopic uprights 2-4 are located at the top of the chromatographic column 1, the space at the top of the chromatographic column 1 can be saved, and the lifting load can also be reduced.

[0130] Referring again to Figure 5, the lower end part 1-6 of the chromatographic column 1 is connected to the bottom of the column barrel 1-4 via a detachable connector 1-5. The top of the upper end part 1-3 is provided with a detachable connector 1-2 and a locking device 1-1. The detachable connector 1-2 is used to connect with the lifting mechanism 2-1, for example, to the lifting rod 2-2 of the lifting mechanism 2-1. The locking device 1-1 is used to connect with the column barrel 1-4.

[0131] Here, the chromatographic column system has a first state, a second state, and a third state.

[0132] Please refer to Figures 17 and 18. In the first state, the lifting mechanism 2-1 is connected to the upper part 1-3, and the upper part 1-3 is separated from the column barrel 1-4.

[0133] In this state, the lifting mechanism 2-1 can lift and lower the upper part 1-3 independently. For example, the lifting mechanism 2-1 can lift and lower the upper part 1-3 to different height positions of the column barrel 1-4, or lift and lower the upper part 1-3 to separate it from the column barrel 1-4 or to adapt it to the column barrel 1-4, thereby enabling maintenance of the upper part 1-3 and / or the column barrel 1-4.

[0134] Especially when the stand 2 can be used with various sizes of chromatographic columns 1, different chromatographic columns 1 are often used for different purposes and filled with different packing materials, so the actual required height position of the upper part 1-3 is also different. By setting the first state, the lifting mechanism 2-1 can lift the upper part 1-3 to different height positions of the column barrel 1-4, thereby making the stand 2 suitable for various uses and sizes of chromatographic columns 1.

[0135] In the second state, as shown in Figures 15 and 16, the lifting mechanism 2-1 is connected to the upper part 1-3, which is located at the top or non-top position of the column barrel 1-4 and is connected to the column barrel 1-4 through the locking device 1-1.

[0136] In this state, since the upper part 1-3 is fixed to the column barrel 1-4 via the locking device 1-1, the lifting mechanism 2-1 can move the upper part 1-3 and the column barrel 1-4 up and down as a whole, thereby performing maintenance on the chromatographic column 1, or other operations such as moving the chromatographic column 1 to the required height position. In this state, the lower part 1-6 can be connected to the column barrel 1-4 via the detachable connector 1-5, or it can be separated from the column barrel 1-4. The specific structure of the detachable connector 1-5 will be described later.

[0137] In the third state, the lifting mechanism 2-1 is separated from the upper part 1-3, as shown in Figure 14. At this time, the upper part 1-3 is connected to the column barrel 1-4 through the locking device 1-1.

[0138] In this state, the connection between the lifting mechanism 2-1 and the chromatographic column 1 is released, and the upper part 1-3 is connected to the column barrel 1-4. This allows for maintenance or other operations on the chromatographic column 1. Referring to Figure 14, in this state, the lower part 1-6 can be connected to the column barrel 1-4 via the detachable connector 1-5, or it can be separated from the column barrel 1-4. For example, in this state, the upper part 1-3, the column barrel 1-4, and the lower part 1-6 are connected as a single unit.

[0139] At this point, the chromatographic column 1 can be moved to the desired position by means of transport carts 1-8, or the stand 2 can be moved away from the position that matches the chromatographic column 1 by moving the stand 2, so that the stand 2 can continue to be used for other chromatographic columns 1 and perform related work.

[0140] As can be seen, the chromatographic column system provided in this embodiment can switch between a first state, a second state, and a third state, thereby facilitating the maintenance of the chromatographic column 1. Simultaneously, according to this configuration, a stand 2 can be easily adapted to different chromatographic columns 1 and used to maintain different chromatographic columns 1, helping to improve work efficiency and reduce operating costs.

[0141] In some embodiments, referring again to FIG1, the lifting mechanism 2-1 is connected to the upper end member 1-3 via a detachable connector 2-2. Exemplarily, the bottom end or near the bottom end of the lifting rod 2-2 is connected to the detachable connector 2-2. The detachable connector 2-2 has a lifting surface 2-3 on the side near the upper end member 1-3 (see FIG9). The lifting surface 2-3 is opposite to the upper end surface of the upper end member 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1. For example, the lifting surface can be the bottom surface of the detachable connector 2-2. The lifting surface 2-3 and the upper end member 1-3 form a detachable connection. For example, referring to FIG7, the detachable connector 2-2 and the upper end member 1-3 are detachably connected by bolts, etc. Of course, this embodiment does not constitute an undue limitation.

[0142] In a further example, the upper part 1-3 is provided with a groove that conforms to the shape of the lifting surface 2-3 of the detachable connector 1-2. For example, the lifting surface 2-3 of the detachable connector 1-2 is generally circular or annular, with its outer edge forming an outer circle, and the groove is a corresponding circular or annular shape, allowing the lifting surface 2-3 of the detachable connector 1-2 to fit into the groove. Furthermore, the lifting surface 2-3 is an annular shape concentric with the upper end face of the chromatographic column 1, and the radius of the lifting surface 2-3 is between 1 / 3 and 2 / 3 of the radius of the upper end face of the chromatographic column 1. For example, referring to Figure 8, the detachable connector 1-2 is generally an annular shape concentric with the upper part 1-3.

[0143] Therefore, by setting the lifting surface 2-3, the contact area between the lifting mechanism 2-1 and the chromatographic column 1 is increased, which makes the movement of the chromatographic column 1 and its components more stable when lifting and lowering, and the lifting mechanism 2-1 is less likely to be damaged.

[0144] In some embodiments, referring to FIG6, the locking device 1-1 includes a connecting flange 1-1-4 and a locking lever 1-1-1.

[0145] The connecting flange 1-1-4 has a second thread 1-1-3 and is connected to the column barrel 1-4 through the second thread 1-1-3. The locking rod 1-1-1 is fixed to the top surface of the upper part 1-3 and has a first thread 1-1-2. The locking rod 1-1-1 passes through the connecting flange 1-1-4 and is limited by the cooperation of the nut and the first thread 1-1-2.

[0146] Therefore, when the upper part 1-3 is raised or lowered to different height positions of the column barrel 1-4, the connection between the upper part 1-3 and the column barrel 1-4 can be achieved through the locking device 1-1. Especially when the upper part 1-3 is lowered to a certain height position inside the column barrel 1-4, there is a certain distance between it and the top of the column barrel 1-4, making it difficult to fix the upper part 1-3 to the column barrel 1-4. However, in this embodiment, simply replacing the locking rod 1-1-1 with one of appropriate length, or extending the locking rod 1-1-1 by means of bolt connection, can be used to fix the upper part 1-3 and the column barrel 1-4. This is particularly suitable for use scenarios where the stand 2 can be adapted to chromatographic columns 1 of different sizes and uses.

[0147] For example, in the first state, referring to Figure 10, the lifting mechanism 2-1 drives the upper part 1-3 to rise and fall to the first position. In the second state, referring to Figure 15, the locking device 1-1 can connect the upper part 1-3 and the column barrel 1-4 in the first position. The first position is either the top position or a non-top position of the column barrel 1-4, and in particular, it can be a position located a distance below the top of the column barrel 1-4.

[0148] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 10 again. The stand 2 is provided with a positioning device 1-7. Please refer to Figures 11 and 12. The positioning device 1-7 is provided with a plurality of positioning hole groups 1-7-2 of different specifications to accommodate chromatographic columns 1 of different diameters. For example, a plurality of positioning holes 1-7-2-1 arranged along arcs of different diameters.

[0149] Therefore, by setting up positioning devices 1-7, it is possible to achieve positioning of chromatographic columns 1 of different sizes, so that lifting mechanism 2-1 can be better positioned with chromatographic column 1, and thus more stably achieve lifting and lowering of chromatographic column 1 or its components.

[0150] For example, referring to Figure 10, the positioning device 1-7 also includes a positioning platform 1-7-1 and several positioning pins, with the positioning platform 1-7-1 mounted on the frame 2.

[0151] The aforementioned positioning hole group 1-7-2 is set on the positioning platform 1-7-1. The positioning pins are used to cooperate with the positioning hole group 1-7-2 to realize the positioning of the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1. The number of positioning pins usually corresponds to the number of positioning holes 1-7-2-1 in the positioning hole group 1-7-2.

[0152] For example, referring to Figure 11 again, each group of positioning holes 1-7-2 includes three positioning holes 1-7-2-1 to achieve concentric positioning of the stand 2 and the column 1. The three positioning holes 1-7-2-1 uniquely define a center point, and this three-point positioning method helps to achieve accurate positioning of the column 1 and the stand 2. Furthermore, two of the three positioning holes 1-7-2-1 are circular holes, and one is a waist-shaped hole. This arrangement facilitates fine-tuning of the column 1's position for accurate positioning. Here, the waist-shaped hole can be located between the two circular holes in the circumferential direction.

[0153] Therefore, the positioning device 1-7 can achieve rapid positioning between the chromatographic column 1 and the stand 2, which facilitates the quick application of the stand 2 to different chromatographic columns 1 during use, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0154] As another example, please continue referring to Figure 11. The positioning platform 1-7-1 can be roughly semi-circular, with an arc-shaped side and a straight side. A slot is provided on the straight side to facilitate the assembly of the chromatographic column 1. Since the lower end face of the chromatographic column 1 is usually circular, the semi-circular positioning platform 1-7-1 can better support and receive the chromatographic column 1, while occupying less area to avoid interference with other components.

[0155] In some embodiments, referring to FIG10, the stand 2 includes a first support portion 2-5 and a second support portion 2-6. Referring to FIG24, a first detector 2-8 is disposed on the first support portion 2-5, and a second detector 2-9 is disposed on the second support portion 2-6. A positioning space 2-7 is formed between the second support portion 2-6 and the first support portion 2-5 for positioning and accommodating the chromatographic column 1.

[0156] The first detector 2-8 and the second detector 2-9 are arranged symmetrically about the center of the positioning space 2-7. For example, at least a part of the positioning space 2-7 is located on the aforementioned positioning platform 1-7-1, and the center of the positioning space 2-7 can be the center of each group of positioning holes 1-7-2 on the aforementioned positioning platform 1-7-1.

[0157] Referring to Figure 25, the first detector 2-8 detects the first distance between the first support 2-5 and the chromatographic column 1 located in the positioning space 2-7, and the second detector 2-9 detects the second distance between the second support 2-6 and the chromatographic column 1 located in the positioning space 2-7. Exemplarily, both the first detector 2-8 and the second detector 2-9 are distance sensors or other sensors, located on an arc centered on the center of the positioning space 2-7, and both facing the center. Therefore, during alignment, only the position between the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1 needs to be adjusted so that the first and second distances are equal. Of course, the first detector 2-8 and the second detector 2-9 can also be arranged in other ways, as long as the first and second distances meet preset values ​​when the chromatographic column 1 is aligned.

[0158] In this embodiment of the application, the platform 2 needs to be adapted to multiple chromatographic columns 1, and the dimensions of the multiple chromatographic columns 1 may be different. Therefore, when the platform 2 needs to drive the chromatographic columns 1, the alignment function between the platform 2 and the chromatographic columns 1 is very important. If they are not aligned, the platform 2 will not be able to connect well with the chromatographic columns 1, which will affect the stability and safety of raising and lowering the chromatographic columns 1 or their components.

[0159] However, manually moving the column 1 or the stand 2 and constantly adjusting the position between the stand 2 and the column 1 to achieve centering is rather cumbersome. Therefore, in some embodiments, the aforementioned first detector 2-8 and second detector 2-9 can be used to detect the positional relationship between the stand 2 and the column 1. Based on changes in the first and second distances, the position between the stand 2 and the column 1 can be automatically or manually adjusted in a targeted manner, thereby improving the centering efficiency.

[0160] As another example, the platform 2 is also equipped with a controller (not shown), which is signal-connected to the first detector 2-8 and the second detector 2-9. After receiving the signals of the first distance and the second distance, the controller sends a signal to prompt the user to adjust the position. For example, the controller is also connected to a speaker or a display, which may display the signal parameters of the first distance and the second distance, or output the displacement direction and distance to be adjusted calculated based on the signals of the first distance and the second distance.

[0161] Alternatively, the controller is also connected to a driver, which can be a motor push rod or hydraulic push rod, an electric caster located at the bottom of the stand 2, or a moving trolley 1-8 carrying the chromatographic column 1 (see Figures 2 and 3), etc. According to the signals of the first distance and the second distance, the controller controls the driver to move the stand 2 or the chromatographic column 1 so that the chromatographic column 1 moves to a preset position on the stand 2, such as within the position range that can cooperate with the lifting mechanism 2-1.

[0162] As another example, the signals of the first distance and the second distance, or the displacement signal calculated based on the signals of the first distance and the second distance, are transmitted to the electric casters provided at the bottom of the stand 2. The electric casters continuously adjust the position of the stand 2 according to the obtained signals until they finally reach the preset position, thereby achieving the alignment of the stand 2 with the chromatographic column 1.

[0163] Of course, it is understood that relevant distance signals, displacement signals, etc., can also be transmitted to the aforementioned mobile vehicles 1-8. The examples in this embodiment do not constitute an undue limitation on this application.

[0164] Embodiments of this application also provide a method for maintaining a chromatographic column system, comprising the following steps.

[0165] A chromatographic column system is provided, as shown in Figures 1 to 26. This system includes a stand 2 and a column 1. The stand 2 includes a lifting mechanism 2-1. The column 1 includes a column barrel 1-4 and an upper end member 1-3 and a lower end member 1-6 respectively disposed on the upper and lower sides of the column barrel 1-4. The lower end member 1-6 is connected to the bottom of the column barrel 1-4 via a detachable connector 1-5. The upper end member 1-3 is connected to the lifting mechanism 2-1 via a detachable connector 1-2. The upper end member 1-3 is also detachably connected to the column barrel 1-4 via a locking device 1-1. Exemplarily, referring to Figures 1 to 26, this chromatographic column system can be any of the chromatographic column systems provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0166] The maintenance method further includes at least one of the following two steps: connecting the lifting mechanism 2-1 to the upper part 1-3 via the detachable connector 2-2, and raising or lowering the upper part 1-3 via the lifting mechanism 2-1; connecting the lifting mechanism 2-1 to the upper part 1-3 via the detachable connector 2-2, and connecting the upper part 1-3 and the column barrel 1-4 via the locking device 1-1, wherein the upper part 1-3 is located at the top or non-top position of the column barrel 1-4, and raising or lowering the upper part 1-3 and the column barrel 1-4 as a whole via the lifting mechanism 2-1.

[0167] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 25, a first detector 2-8, a second detector 2-9, and a third detector 2-10 are provided on the stand 2 to detect the relative distance between the chromatographic column 1 and the stand 2. The first detector 2-8 is located in a first direction of the stand 2 (e.g., the X direction in Figure 25), and the third detector 2-10 is located in a second direction of the stand 2 (e.g., the Y direction in Figure 25). The first direction and the second direction are not parallel and do not coincide. Exemplarily, the first direction can be perpendicular to the second direction. A moving mechanism is provided at the bottom of the stand 2 or the chromatographic column 1. For example, the moving mechanism is an electric caster at the bottom of the stand 2, or a moving trolley 1-8 at the bottom of the chromatographic column 1.

[0168] It is understood that there are no restrictions on the placement of the second detector 2-9. For example, the second detector 2-9 can be placed in the opposite direction of the first direction. Taking the first direction as the right-to-left direction and the second direction as the front-to-back direction as an example, when the chromatographic column 1 is mounted on the stand 2, the first detector 2-8 is located on the left side of the chromatographic column 1, the second detector 2-9 is located on the right side of the chromatographic column 1, and the third detector 2-10 is located on the rear side of the chromatographic column 1.

[0169] Here, as a further example, the first distance is the distance between the first detector 2-8 on the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1, for example, the distance L1 between the left side of the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1; the second distance is the distance between the second detector 2-9 on the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1, for example, the distance L2 between the right side of the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1; and the third distance is the distance between the third detector 2-10 on the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1, for example, the distance L3 between the front side of the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1. Here, the front side of the chromatographic column 1 refers to the side of the chromatographic column 1 facing the stand 2 when the chromatographic column 1 moves relative to the stand 2.

[0170] It is understandable that the first distance, the second distance, and the third distance here can be the distance between any part of the chromatographic column 1 and any part of the stand 2. For example, the first distance, the second distance, and the third distance can be the distance between the outer wall of the column barrel 1-4 and the stand 2, or the distance between the moving trolley 8 that carries the chromatographic column 1 and the stand 2.

[0171] Here, the maintenance method also includes the alignment method of the stand 2 and the column 1. Please refer to Figure 27 and Figure 28 when reading the relevant specific steps. The alignment method includes a first judgment step S100, which includes the following steps.

[0172] S110. Obtain the first distance and the third distance, and determine whether the first distance is within the first threshold range and whether the third distance is within the third threshold range;

[0173] S120. If all conditions are met, then proceed with the following automatic alignment step S200.

[0174] It is understandable that performing step S100 before step S200 helps ensure that step S200 is only executed when the relative positions of the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1 are close, thereby reducing computational load and energy consumption. Of course, in some embodiments, step S100 may not be performed; furthermore, typically, a processor connected to the moving mechanism or a processor inherent in the moving mechanism acquires relevant distance signals and performs related calculations and judgments, etc., for data processing. However, the examples in this embodiment do not constitute an undue limitation.

[0175] For example, it is determined whether the spacing L1 is less than the preset spacing X, and whether the spacing L2 is less than the preset spacing Y. If the requirements are met, the chromatographic column 1 is considered to be in a suitable position for performing step S200.

[0176] Here, the alignment method includes an automatic alignment step S200, which includes:

[0177] S210. Obtain the first distance measured by the first detector 2-8, and obtain the first movement stroke of the moving mechanism in the first direction based on the first distance;

[0178] S220. Obtain the third distance measured by the third detector 2-10, and obtain the third movement stroke of the moving mechanism in the second direction based on the third distance;

[0179] S230. Drive the moving mechanism to move according to the first moving stroke and the third moving stroke.

[0180] It is understood that the sequence numbers in this specification do not necessarily indicate the order in which the steps are executed. For example, S210 and S220 can be executed simultaneously, or S210 can be executed first, or S220 can be executed first. In addition, generally, the processor connected to the mobile mechanism signal or the processor of the mobile mechanism itself acquires the relevant distance signal and performs the calculation and driving of the movement distance. Of course, the examples in the embodiments of this application do not constitute an undue limitation.

[0181] For example, based on the spacing L1 and the preset target value L for the left side spacing... 左 The difference is used to calculate the distance the moving mechanism needs to travel, based on the difference between the distance L3 and the preset target value of the front distance L. 前 The difference is used to calculate the distance the moving mechanism needs to travel. For example, the moving mechanism is an electric caster installed on the underside of the platform 2. Based on the calculation result, the electric caster drives the platform 2 to move the corresponding distance.

[0182] In some embodiments, a second determination step S300 is performed after the automatic alignment step S200. The second determination step S300 includes:

[0183] S310. Obtain the first distance measured by the first detector 2-8, and determine whether the first distance is within the first preset distance range; S320. Obtain the second distance measured by the second detector 2-9, and determine whether the second distance is within the second preset distance range; S330. Obtain the third distance measured by the third detector 2-10, and determine whether the third distance is within the third preset distance range;

[0184] S340. If at least one of the first preset distance range, the second preset distance range, and the third preset distance range is not met, the automatic alignment step S200 is executed again.

[0185] It is understood that the sequence numbers in this specification do not necessarily indicate the order in which the steps are executed. For example, S310, S320, and S330 can be executed simultaneously, or S310 can be executed first, or S320 can be executed first, or S320 can be executed first. In addition, usually, the processor connected to the mobile mechanism signal or the processor of the mobile mechanism itself acquires the relevant distance signal and performs data processing such as calculation and judgment. Of course, the examples in the embodiments of this application do not constitute an undue limitation.

[0186] For example, after obtaining the left side spacing L1, the right side spacing L2, and the front side spacing L3, calculate whether the distance between the current position of column 1 and the target position satisfies |L1-L 左 |≤L 左差 |L2-L 右 |≤L 右差 |L3-L 前 |≤L 前差 L 左差 For the first preset distance range, L 右差 For the second preset distance range, L 前差 If the third preset distance range is met, the centering process ends; otherwise, the aforementioned step S200 is repeated.

[0187] It is understood that the chromatographic column system in this embodiment is configured as a split structure, meaning that the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1 can be docked and separated. Therefore, the aforementioned maintenance method includes steps for positioning, docking, and separating the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1. When it is necessary for the stand 2 to engage with the chromatographic column 1, the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1 can be moved relative to each other, thereby docking the chromatographic column 1 with the stand 2, for example, by using the aforementioned alignment method. After the maintenance of the chromatographic column 1 is completed, the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1 can be moved relative to each other, thereby separating the chromatographic column 1 from the stand 2. Therefore, this maintenance method for the chromatographic column system can also be called a cruise positioning method for the chromatographic column system.

[0188] Example 1

[0189] As shown in Figure 1, a chromatographic column system provided by the present invention includes a chromatographic column 1 and a support 2 for connecting the chromatographic column 1. The chromatographic column 1 includes a column barrel 1-4 and an upper end member 1-3 and a lower end member 1-6 respectively disposed on the upper and lower sides of the column barrel 1-4. The upper end member 1-3 is connected to the top of the column barrel 1-4 through a locking device 1-1 (to fix the upper end member 1-3 at different heights). The lower end member 1-6 is connected to the bottom of the column barrel 1-4 through a detachable connector 1-5. The support 2 includes a lifting mechanism 2-1 for raising and lowering the upper end member 1-3. The lifting mechanism 2-1 includes a pair of telescopic uprights 2-4 and a pair of lifting rods 2-2. The bottom ends of the two lifting rods 2-2 are connected to the lifting surface 2-3. A positioning device 1-7 is provided between the chromatographic column 1 and the support 2.

[0190] The locking device 1-1 includes a locking rod 1-1-1 fixed to the top surface of the upper end piece 1-3. The locking rod 1-1-1 is provided with a thread 1-1-2 on the outside. The locking rod 1-1-1 passes through the connecting flange 1-1-4 and is limited by a nut. The connecting flange 1-1-4 is also provided with a thread 1-1-3 for connecting the column barrel 1-4.

[0191] The detachable connector 1-5 uses bolts and nuts.

[0192] The detachable connector 1-2 is mounted on the support 2 of the chromatographic column 1 (Figure 13). Its outer circle can be positioned with the groove provided in the upper part 1-3, and it is provided with bolt holes to be connected and fixed to the upper part 1-3.

[0193] As shown in Figure 11, the positioning device 1-7 is provided with positioning holes 1-7-2-1 for different specifications of chromatography columns (as shown in Figure 12). Correspondingly, each lower end part 1-6 of a chromatography column with a different diameter is also provided with three corresponding positioning pin holes. Based on the principle of three points determining a circle, it is ensured that the lower end part 1-6 is concentric with the support 2 of the chromatography column 1.

[0194] The aforementioned chromatographic column system, comprising column 1 and stand 2, adopts a separate design. Therefore, column 1 can be moved using a transport trolley (a transport trolley platform is installed at the bottom of column 1, as shown in Figure 3, facilitating transport). Optional transport trolleys include air-cushioned vehicles or electric tanks.

[0195] The maintenance methods for the above-mentioned column system are as follows:

[0196] I. Transport of chromatographic column 1, the specific implementation steps are as follows:

[0197] Step 1: Move the transport cart below column 1.

[0198] Step 2: Use a transport cart to support column 1.

[0199] Here, you can choose to lower the support feet of the chromatographic column 1 to lower the support surface of the chromatographic column 1 to the transport trolley, or you can choose to use a liftable transport trolley to raise the support surface of the transport trolley to the chromatographic column 1.

[0200] Step 3: Move column 1 to the designated position using a transport cart.

[0201] Step 4: Separate column 1 from the transport cart.

[0202] Here, you can choose to raise the support feet of the chromatographic column 1 to raise the chromatographic column 1 away from the support surface of the transfer cart, or you can choose to use a transfer cart that can be raised and lowered to lower the support surface of the transfer cart away from the chromatographic column 1.

[0203] Step 5: Remove the transport cart from under column 1.

[0204] The chromatographic column 1 includes an upper component 1-3, a column barrel 1-4, and a lower component 1-6. The upper component 1-3 and the lower component 1-6 of the chromatographic column 1 include a sieve plate, a distribution plate, valves, and sealing rings. The column barrel 1-4 of the chromatographic column 1 can be ring-shaped or square. While not all parts of the chromatographic column 1 are mentioned here, these are standard components.

[0205] The column barrel 1-4 of the chromatographic column 1 is detachably connected to the lower end piece 1-6 of the chromatographic column 1 via a detachable connector 1-5. The detachable connector 1-5 can be a set of threaded structures installed symmetrically or asymmetrically along the column barrel 1-4. Figure 7 shows an example of the detachable connector 1. The detachable connector 1 can also be designed in other styles.

[0206] The chromatographic column 1 is equipped with a locking device 1-1, which can lock the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 at any part of the column 1. When the lower part 1-6 of the chromatographic column 1 is separated from the column 1, the column barrel 1-4 and the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 can be raised. The locking device 1-1 can be a set of threaded structures installed symmetrically or asymmetrically along the column barrel 1-4. Figure 6 shows an example of the locking device 1-1. The locking device 1-1 can also be designed in other styles. The locking device 1-1 is detachable. The column barrel 1-4 is threadedly connected to a locking disc, which is threadedly connected to a locking rod 1-1-1. The locking rod 1-1-1 is threadedly connected to the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1. By adjusting the length of the locking rod 1-1-1 extending into the column barrel 1-4, the position of the upper part 1-3 relative to the lower part 1-6 of the chromatographic column 1 is adjusted. Therefore, the locking device 1-1 can lock the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 at any part of the chromatographic column 1.

[0207] The lower end piece 1-6 of the chromatographic column 1 is not connected to the stand 2 that can be connected to the chromatographic column 1.

[0208] A positioning device 1-7 is provided between the chromatographic column 1 and the stand 2 on which the chromatographic column 1 can be connected. The positioning device 1-7 can position the chromatographic column 1 of different specifications at a suitable position on the stand 2 on which the chromatographic column 1 can be connected.

[0209] Figures 11 and 12 show examples of the positioning device 1-7. The positioning device 1-7 can also be designed in other styles. The positioning device 1-7 includes a positioning platform 1-7-1, positioning holes 1-7-2-1, and positioning pins. The positioning platform 1-7-1 has positioning holes 1-7-2-1 for three different diameter chromatographic columns 1, thus enabling the support frame 2 to accommodate three different diameter chromatographic columns 1. The positioning platform 1-7-1 has three positioning holes 1-7-2-1 for different diameter chromatographic columns 1, two of which are round holes and one is a slotted hole, facilitating the installation of the positioning pins. The positioning device 1-7 uses a three-point method to determine the center of a circle, achieving concentric positioning of the support frame 2 and the chromatographic column 1, so that the lifting mechanism 2-1 can accurately position the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 of different diameters.

[0210] II. Compatibility of chromatographic columns with different diameters, the specific implementation steps are as follows:

[0211] Step 1: Fix the positioning devices 1-7 in the appropriate position.

[0212] Here, the positioning platform 1-7-1 can be fixed to the stand 2 that can be connected to the chromatographic column 1 by means of welding or bolt connection.

[0213] Step 2: Move column 1 below the stand 2 that can be connected to column 1. (Steps 1 and 2 can be adjusted arbitrarily.)

[0214] Step 3: Align the positioning devices 1-7 between the chromatographic column 1 and the stand 2 that can be connected to the chromatographic column 1.

[0215] Here, the positioning holes 1-7-2-1 between the chromatographic column 1 and the stand 2 that can be connected to the chromatographic column 1 are aligned.

[0216] Step 4: Position the chromatographic column 1 and the stand 2 that can be connected to the chromatographic column 1.

[0217] Here, insert the locating pin into the locating hole 1-7-2-1.

[0218] A lifting mechanism 2-1 is provided on the support 2 that connects to the chromatographic column 1. The lifting surface 2-3 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 and the upper end face of the chromatographic column 1 are concentrically designed. The length of the lifting rod 2-2 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 that can extend into the column barrel 1-4 and the extension distance of the telescopic upright 2-4 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 are greater than or equal to the maximum difference between the barrel height and the packing bed height of the chromatographic columns 1 with different diameters that need to be compatible. It is recommended that the connection between the lifting surface 2-3 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 and the upper end face of the chromatographic column 1 adopt a symmetrical design, preferably a ring design. It is recommended that the radius of the lifting surface 2-3 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 be between 1 / 3 and 2 / 3 of the radius of the upper end face of the chromatographic column 1.

[0219] Figure 14 shows an example of the lifting mechanism 2-1 connecting to the support 2 of the chromatographic column 1. The lifting mechanism 2-1 can also be designed in other styles. The lifting mechanism 2-1 is equipped with a drive motor and two telescopic uprights 2-4. Each telescopic upright 2-4 has an upper screw and a lower screw, which are connected by threads. The upper screw is fixed to the lifting mechanism 2-1 by bolts or other means, so that the drive motor can rotate the lower screw to achieve the upward and downward movement of the lifting mechanism 2-1. Figure 9 shows an example of the connection style between the lifting surface 2-3 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 and the upper end face of the chromatographic column 1. The connection between the lifting surface 2-3 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 and the upper end face of the chromatographic column 1 can also be designed in other styles. A concentric, symmetrical, and larger contact surface helps to avoid the risk of uneven packing pressure distribution during axial compression.

[0220] The lifting mechanism 2-1 of the support 2 of the chromatographic column 1 is detachably connected to the upper end piece 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 via a detachable connector 2-2. Figure 9 shows an example of the detachable connector 2-2. The detachable connector 2-2 can also be designed in other styles.

[0221] After the detachable connector 1-2 is connected, the lifting mechanism 2-1 that can be raised or lowered on the stand 2 that can be connected to the chromatographic column 1 can move the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 to different heights.

[0222] III. Compatibility of chromatographic columns of different heights, the specific implementation steps are as follows:

[0223] Step 1: Move the lifting surface 2-3 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 of the stand 2 that can be connected to the chromatographic column 1 above the chromatographic column 1.

[0224] Step 2: Position the chromatographic column 1 and the stand 2 that can be connected to the chromatographic column 1.

[0225] Step 3: The upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 is kept connected to the locking device 1-1, and then the upper part 1-3 is connected to the lifting surface 2-3 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 (Figure 19).

[0226] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the upper component 1-3 is connected to the lifting surface 2-3 (Figure 19) of the lifting mechanism 2-1 by means of threads (or snap-fit ​​connection). The operation method is as follows:

[0227] The motor driving column 1 support 2 lowers the lifting surface 2-3 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 into the positioning groove of the upper part 1-3 (the upper part 1-3 has a positioning groove corresponding to the lifting surface 2-3 to ensure concentricity). Then, the two are fixed together by threaded connection. Then, the locking device 1-1 of column 1 is removed so that only one of the upper part 1-3 and the lifting surface 2-3 is fixed. Then, the motor driving column 1 support 2 drives the lifting surface 2-3 to rise and fall to meet the different column loading height requirements of the customer.

[0228] Once the defined height is reached, connect the upper part 1-3 to the locking device 1-1 and lock them together to fix the upper part 1-3 to the column barrel 1-4. Then remove the bolts between the lifting surface 2-3 and the upper part 1-3 so that the upper part 1-3 is only fixed to the column barrel 1-4.

[0229] The motor is then driven to disengage the lifting surface 2-3 from the column barrel 1-4.

[0230] When the required column height and packing bed height for chromatographic columns 1 with different diameters are shown in Table 1, the length of the lifting rod 2-2 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 that can extend into the column barrel 1-4 is greater than or equal to 880 mm, and the extension distance of the telescopic upright 2-4 of the lifting mechanism 2-1 is greater than or equal to 880 mm.

[0231] Table 1

[0232] Therefore, when the locking device 1-1 locks the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 at any part of the chromatographic column 1, and when the lower part 1-6 of the chromatographic column 1 separates from the chromatographic column 1, the column barrel 1-4 and the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 can be lifted to perform maintenance on the lower part 1-6 of the chromatographic column 1. When the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 is unlocked from the chromatographic column 1, the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 can be lifted to perform maintenance on the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1.

[0233] IV. Maintenance of the lower end parts 1-6 of chromatographic column 1, the specific implementation steps are as follows:

[0234] Step 1: Disassemble the detachable joint 1-5 between the column barrel 1-4 and the lower end piece 1-6 of the chromatographic column 1;

[0235] Step 2: Connect the detachable connector 1-2 between the upper end part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 and the lifting mechanism 2-1 of the support 2 that can connect the chromatographic column 1.

[0236] Step 3: Lock the upper part 1-3 of column 1 at any part of column 1. (Steps 1, 2, and 3 can be adjusted arbitrarily.)

[0237] Figure 15 shows the status of column 1 after steps 1, 2, and 3.

[0238] Step 4: Raise the lifting mechanism 2-1 of the stand 2 that can be connected to the chromatographic column 1, thereby raising the column barrel 1-4 and the upper end piece 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1, and separating the lower end piece 1-6 of the chromatographic column 1 from the chromatographic column 1.

[0239] Figure 16 shows the state of column 1 after step 4. At this point, removing the lower end piece 1-6 of column 1 along the path it entered provides sufficient space for maintenance. This avoids the operator working under heavy loads including column barrel 1-4 and eliminates the risks associated with the side rotation of column barrel 1-4. If maintenance is required on components below lower end piece 1-6, a device such as a crane or jack can be used to lift lower end piece 1-6 of column 1, creating more space for maintenance.

[0240] Step 5: Perform maintenance on the lower end parts 1-6 of column 1 (Figure 20).

[0241] V. Maintenance of upper components 1-3 of chromatographic column 1, the specific implementation steps are as follows:

[0242] Step 1: Connect the detachable connector 1-2 between the upper end part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 and the lifting mechanism 2-1 of the support 2 that can connect the chromatographic column 1.

[0243] Step 2: Unlock the upper part 1-3 of column 1 and column 1. (Steps 1 and 2 can be adjusted arbitrarily.)

[0244] Figure 17 shows the status of column 1 after steps 1 and 2.

[0245] Step 3: Raise the lifting mechanism 2-1 of the stand 2 that can be connected to the chromatographic column 1, thereby raising the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 and separating the upper part 1-3 of the chromatographic column 1 from the chromatographic column 1.

[0246] Figure 18 shows the state of column 1 after step 3. At this point, by removing the column barrel 1-4 and lower end piece 1-6 (as shown in Figure 22) along the path used to insert column 1, there is sufficient space for maintenance of the upper end piece 1-3.

[0247] Step 5: Perform maintenance on the upper part 1-3 of column 1.

[0248] Furthermore, this embodiment also provides an example of the centering step, which can be applied in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0249] In this embodiment, the relative position of the chromatographic column 1 and the stand 2 is first detected. If the distance L1 between the chromatographic column 1 and the left side is less than X, and the distance L3 between the chromatographic column 1 and the front side is less than Y, then the chromatographic column 1 is considered to be in a position that can be automatically centered, and then automatic centering can begin.

[0250] First, obtain the distance L1 from the left side and the distance L3 from the front of the current chromatographic column 1. Then, calculate the distance L1 from the left side to reach the target distance value. 左 and the target value L ahead 前 At that time, the electric caster needs to move in the direction and number of steps, and then drive the chromatographic column 1 to move in the corresponding direction according to the calculation results, which is the calculated number of steps.

[0251] Next, obtain the spacing L1 on the left, L2 on the right, and L3 on the front of the current column 1, and calculate whether the distance between the current position of column 1 and the target position satisfies |L1-L 左 |≤L 左差 |L2-L 右 |≤L 右差 |L3-L 前 |≤L 前差 If the conditions for termination are met, the centering operation ends; otherwise, the calculation of the driving direction and number of steps for column 1 is repeated.

[0252] It is understood that this example is based on driving the column 1 to move. In other embodiments, the platform 2 can also be driven to move. As long as there is relative movement between the column 1 and the platform 2, the relative positions between the column 1 and the platform 2 will change.

[0253] Here, since the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1 are connected in a separate manner, the alignment function between the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1 is crucial when the stand 2 needs to be adapted to different specifications of the chromatographic column 1. If misalignment occurs, the stand 2 will not be able to connect to the chromatographic column 1. The chromatographic column system provided in this application can achieve alignment by manually moving the chromatographic column 1 and / or the stand 2, or by using the aforementioned method.

[0254] In this embodiment, a first detector 2-8, a second detector 2-9, and a third detector 2-10 are set on the stand 2 to detect the positional relationship between the chromatographic column 1, the stand 2, and the chromatographic column 1. Finally, the positional distance is fed back to the chromatographic column 1 and / or the moving mechanism such as electric casters on the stand 2, and then the relative position between the chromatographic column 1 and the stand 2 is continuously adjusted until they reach the preset position, thereby achieving the alignment of the stand 2 and the chromatographic column 1 and effectively ensuring the adaptability of the stand 2 to different chromatographic columns 1.

[0255] It is understood that the terms used in the embodiments of this application have the same meaning. For any content not described in detail in a certain embodiment, the specific implementation details can be referred to the descriptions in other embodiments. The examples and technical effects shown in the foregoing embodiments can be implemented accordingly. For repeated parts, this embodiment will not elaborate further.

[0256] The chromatographic column system and its maintenance method provided in this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. A chromatographic column system, characterized in that, The system includes a chromatographic column and a support for connecting the chromatographic column. The chromatographic column includes a column barrel and upper and lower end pieces respectively located on the upper and lower sides of the column barrel. The upper end piece is connected to the top of the column barrel by a locking device and has a detachable connecting piece two on the top. The lower end piece is connected to the bottom of the column barrel by a detachable connecting piece one. The support includes a lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the upper end piece. The lifting mechanism includes a pair of telescopic uprights and a pair of lifting rods. The bottom ends of the two lifting rods are connected to the lifting surface.

2. The chromatographic column system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking device includes a locking rod fixed to the top surface of the upper end piece. The locking rod has a threaded first thread, which passes through the connecting flange and is limited by a nut. The connecting flange also has a threaded second thread for connecting the column barrel.

3. The chromatographic column system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second detachable connector includes screw holes located at corresponding positions on the upper end piece and the column barrel, and the two screw holes are connected and fixed by bolts.

4. The chromatographic column system according to claim 1, characterized in that, A positioning device is provided between the chromatographic column and the stand, and the positioning device is provided with a group of positioning holes suitable for chromatographic columns of different diameters.

5. A method for maintaining a chromatographic column system according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, This includes any one of the following: column transport methods, compatibility methods for columns of different diameters, compatibility methods for columns of different heights, maintenance methods for the lower end of the column, and maintenance methods for the upper end of the column.

6. The maintenance method for the chromatographic column system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The transport method of the chromatographic column includes the following steps. Use a transport cart to support the chromatographic column; The chromatographic column is moved to the designated position using a transport cart; Separate the chromatographic column from the transport cart; Remove the transport cart from under the chromatographic column.

7. The maintenance method for the chromatographic column system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The compatibility method for chromatographic columns of different diameters includes the following steps: Secure the positioning device to the stand, and then move the chromatographic column below the stand; or move the chromatographic column below the stand, and then secure the positioning device to the stand. Align the chromatographic column with the positioning device so that the center of the chromatographic column is aligned with the center of the positioning hole group of the positioning device; Perform column and stage positioning.

8. The maintenance method for the chromatographic column system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The compatibility method for chromatographic columns of different heights includes the following steps. Move the lifting surface of the lifting mechanism above the chromatographic column; Position the chromatographic column and the stand; Connect the upper end piece of the chromatographic column to the second detachable connector, and then connect the second detachable connector to the lifting surface of the lifting mechanism. The upper end piece and the lifting surface of the lifting mechanism are connected by threads or snap-fit. Drive the column mount motor to lower the lifting surface of the lifting mechanism into the positioning groove of the upper end piece. The upper end piece has a positioning groove corresponding to the lifting surface. Then, fix the upper end piece and the lifting surface by threaded connection. Then, disassemble the upper end piece of the chromatographic column and the second detachable connector, so that only one of the upper end piece and the lifting surface is fixed. Then, drive the column mount motor to raise or lower the lifting surface. When the defined height is reached, connect the upper end piece and the second detachable connector to fix the upper end piece to the column barrel. Then, remove the bolts between the lifting surface and the upper end piece, so that only one of the upper end piece and the column barrel is fixed. Then, drive the motor to disengage the lifting surface from the column barrel.

9. The maintenance method for the chromatographic column system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The maintenance method for the lower end of the chromatographic column includes the following steps. Perform the following steps in any order: Disassemble the first detachable connector between the column barrel and the lower end; connect the upper end of the chromatographic column to the second detachable connector, and then connect the second detachable connector to the lifting surface of the lifting mechanism; lock the upper end to any part of the chromatographic column. The lifting mechanism lifts the column barrel and the upper part, separating the lower part from the column barrel and the upper part of the chromatographic column; Perform maintenance on the lower-level components; And / or, the maintenance method for the upper part of the chromatographic column includes the following steps: Connect the upper part to the lifting mechanism via the second detachable connector, and then unlock the locking device; or unlock the locking device, and then connect the upper part to the lifting mechanism via the second detachable connector. The lifting mechanism lifts the upper part, separating it from the column barrel and lower part of the chromatographic column; Perform maintenance on the upper part of the chromatographic column.

10. The maintenance method for the chromatographic column system according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a method for positioning the chromatographic column, wherein a first detector and a second detector are provided on the stand, a first distance between the stand and the chromatographic column is detected by the first detector, a second distance between the stand and the chromatographic column is detected by the second detector, and the position adjustment of the chromatographic column is performed by using the first distance and the second distance.

11. A method for maintaining a chromatographic column system, characterized in that, Includes the following steps, A chromatographic column system is provided, including a stand and a chromatographic column. The stand includes a lifting mechanism. The chromatographic column includes a column barrel and an upper end member and a lower end member respectively disposed on the upper and lower sides of the column barrel. The lower end member is connected to the bottom of the column barrel through a detachable connector one. The upper end member is connected to the lifting mechanism through a detachable connector two. The upper end member is also detachably connected to the column barrel through a locking device. The maintenance method further includes at least one of the following steps. The lifting mechanism is connected to the upper part through the detachable coupling part 2, and the upper part is raised and lowered through the lifting mechanism; The lifting mechanism is connected to the upper part through the detachable connector 2, and the upper part and the column barrel are connected through the locking device. The upper part is located at the top or non-top position of the column barrel, and the upper part and the column barrel are raised and lowered as a whole through the lifting mechanism.

12. The maintenance method for the chromatographic column system according to claim 11, characterized in that, The stand is equipped with a first detector, a second detector and a third detector for detecting the relative distance between the chromatographic column and the stand. The first detector is located in a first direction of the stand and the third detector is located in a second direction of the stand. The first direction and the second direction are not parallel and do not coincide. A moving mechanism is provided at the bottom of the stand or the chromatographic column. The maintenance method also includes an alignment method for the stage and column, the alignment method including an automatic alignment step, the automatic alignment step including, Obtain the first distance measured by the first detector, and obtain the first movement stroke of the moving mechanism in the first direction based on the first distance; The third distance measured by the third detector is obtained, and the third movement stroke of the moving mechanism in the second direction is obtained based on the third distance; The moving mechanism is driven to move according to the first moving stroke and the third moving stroke.

13. The maintenance method for the chromatographic column system according to claim 12, characterized in that, A second determination step is performed after the automatic alignment step, the second determination step including: Obtain the first distance measured by the first detector, and determine whether the first distance is within a first preset distance range; Obtain the second distance measured by the second detector, and determine whether the second distance is within the second preset distance range; Obtain the third distance measured by the third detector, and determine whether the third distance is within the third preset distance range; If any of the first, second, and third preset distance ranges are not met, the automatic alignment step is executed again.

14. The maintenance method for the chromatographic column system according to claim 12, characterized in that, A first determination step is performed before the automatic alignment step, the first determination step including: Obtain the first distance and the third distance, and determine whether the first distance is within the range of the first threshold and whether the third distance is within the range of the third threshold; If all conditions are met, then the automatic alignment step is performed.

15. A chromatographic column system, characterized in that, include, A platform, including a lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the upper component, the lifting mechanism including a telescopic upright and a lifting rod; and A chromatographic column includes a column barrel and an upper end piece and a lower end piece respectively disposed on the upper and lower sides of the column barrel. The lower end piece is connected to the bottom of the column barrel through a detachable connector one, and the top of the upper end piece is provided with a detachable connector two. The chromatographic column system has a first state, a second state, and a third state. In the first state, the lifting mechanism is connected to the upper end piece, and the upper end piece is separated from the column barrel. In the second state, the lifting mechanism is connected to the upper end piece, and the upper end piece is located at the top or a non-top position of the column barrel and is connected to the column barrel through a locking device. In the third state, the lifting mechanism is separated from the upper end piece, and the upper end piece is connected to the column barrel through a locking device.

16. The chromatographic column system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The lifting rod is connected to the second detachable connector. The second detachable connector has a lifting surface on the side near the upper end member. The lifting surface is opposite to the upper end face of the upper end member of the chromatographic column, and the lifting surface and the upper end member form a detachable connection.

17. The chromatographic column system according to claim 16, characterized in that, The lifting surface is an annular ring concentric with the upper end face of the chromatographic column, and the radius of the lifting surface is between 1 / 3 and 2 / 3 of the radius of the upper end face of the chromatographic column.

18. The chromatographic column system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The stand is equipped with a positioning device, which has several positioning hole groups of different specifications to accommodate chromatographic columns of different diameters.

19. The chromatographic column system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The platform includes, The first support part is equipped with the first detector; as well as The second support portion forms a positioning space with the first support portion for positioning the chromatographic column, and a second detector is provided on the second support portion; The first detector and the second detector are arranged symmetrically about the center of the positioning space. The first detector is used to detect a first distance between the first support and the chromatographic column located in the positioning space, and the second detector is used to detect a second distance between the second support and the chromatographic column located in the positioning space.

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