Centrifugal Mixing Disk Assembly for Automated Gradient Elution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid chromatography methods require complex and precise control steps, and there is a high risk of cross-contamination during eluate collection, necessitating a more efficient and automated solution.
Innovation Solution
A mixing disk assembly for centrifugal platforms, comprising an inner separation disk with eluent reservoirs, mixing chambers, and an outer collection disk with fraction collectors, utilizing centrifugal and Coriolis forces for proportional metering and a ratchet mechanism for automatic switching, enabling stepwise gradient elution and reducing cross-contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional high precision syringes and mixers are used for eluent mixing, then mixing precision is improved, but device complexity and operational steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical syringes and mixers with a centrifugal field-based mixing system. By utilizing centrifugal force generated during rotation, the system achieves precise eluent mixing and fraction collection without complex mechanical pumping and injection mechanisms, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining mixing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters by using rotational speed control instead of mechanical displacement control. By adjusting the rotational speed of the centrifugal platform, the system controls eluent flow rates and mixing ratios, replacing the need for precision syringes with a simpler rotational parameter control mechanism
2Measurement precision
If conventional fraction collection methods are used, then collection accuracy is maintained, but cross-contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the collection system into multiple independent fraction collectors arranged radially on the centrifugal platform. Each collector handles specific eluate fractions, and the radial arrangement with centrifugal force ensures physical separation between fractions, preventing cross-contamination while maintaining collection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a centrifugal field as an intermediary mechanism that naturally separates and directs different eluate fractions to different collectors based on their flow characteristics and timing. This intermediary field-based separation reduces direct mechanical contact between fractions, minimizing cross-contamination risk
3Productivity
If automated switching mechanism is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service switching mechanism where the centrifugal field itself provides the switching function. By controlling the rotational speed and acceleration/deceleration patterns, the system automatically directs eluate fractions to appropriate collectors without external mechanical switching devices, achieving automation while keeping the mechanism simple
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic acceleration and deceleration of the centrifugal platform to achieve automatic fraction switching. The periodic changes in rotational speed create natural flow direction changes that direct different fractions to different collectors, providing automated switching through simple periodic motion control rather than complex mechanical switches
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The assembly automates chromatographic processes, reduces analysis costs, and facilitates gradient elution by controlling eluent composition through rotational speed adjustments, minimizing cross-contamination during eluate collection.
Implementation Method 1
integrates centrifugal force and Coriolis force to induce proportional metering distribution
Implementation Method 2
integrates centrifugal force and Coriolis force to induce proportional metering distribution
Implementation Method 3
at least one mixing chamber in fluid communication with a siphoning channel and a separation column
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamic mixing disk assembly for a centrifugal platform has an inner disk and an outer disk. The inner disk comprises a first ring part and a second ring part configured to an outer periphery circumference of the first ring part. The first ring part comprises multiple or at least two pawls. The outer disk is rotatably disposed on the second ring part of the inner disk. The outer disk comprises multiple tapered recesses or at least two tapered recesses. When the pawls are engaged with the tapered recesses of the outer disk, the inner disk and the outer disk are able to rotate synchronously with the centrifugal platform. When the inner disk is stopped by the centrifugal platform, the outer disk will keep rotating, and the pawls disengage from the tapered recesses and move to the next tapered recesses.