Chromatograph Data Processing Device for Joint Chromatogram Creation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional data-processing devices for chromatographs create separate data files for each analysis, making it difficult to ensure temporal continuity and detect abnormalities or falsifications in chromatogram data obtained from different analyzing systems used for the same sample, as each analysis is treated as a new event.

Innovation Solution

A data-processing device that allows for the creation of a joint chromatogram from data collected during multiple analyses scheduled for the same sample, using a schedule table to manage analysis conditions and automatically switch between columns, enabling continuous data collection and display of chromatograms, with features to correct retention times for comparison across analyses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If separate data files are created for each analysis, then data organization for different analyzing systems is simplified, but temporal continuity and authenticity verification of chromatogram data become difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata organizationVSAvoidtemporal continuity verification
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple separate chromatogram data files into a single integrated data structure that preserves temporal continuity. The system combines chromatogram data from multiple analyses into one unified data file, allowing verification of temporal relationships between different analyzing systems while maintaining organized data storage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a nested data structure where individual chromatogram data files are embedded within a master data file. Each individual analysis data file contains its own chromatogram information, while the master file orchestrates these individual files with timing and sequence information, creating a hierarchical nesting that enables both detailed analysis and overall temporal verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple analyses are performed using different analyzing systems, then comprehensive analysis of sample components is achieved, but detection of abnormalities or falsifications becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanalysis capabilityVSAvoidabnormality detection
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms that automatically compare chromatogram data across different analyzing systems and time points. The system monitors for abnormalities by analyzing patterns and deviations in the data, providing feedback that highlights potential falsifications or errors in real-time during the analysis process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary verification of data authenticity by establishing baseline patterns from initial analyses before proceeding with subsequent analyses. This preliminary action creates reference data that is used to detect abnormalities in later analyses, enabling early identification of potential issues.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of manufacture

If conventional data processing creates separate files for each injection, then data storage is simplified, but efficient analysis of multiple components across different systems is hindered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata storageVSAvoidanalysis efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal data structure that serves multiple functions simultaneously: it stores individual chromatogram data, maintains temporal sequences, enables cross-system comparison, and supports various analysis methods. This multi-functional data structure eliminates the need for separate processing approaches for different analyzing systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary data processing layer that translates and harmonizes data from different analyzing systems into a unified format. This intermediary structure enables efficient analysis across multiple components and systems while maintaining the simplicity of storage through standardized data organization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Ensures temporal continuity and sameness of chromatograms, facilitating easy detection of abnormalities or falsifications, and allowing for efficient analysis of multiple components in a single data set, enhancing the validity and authenticity verification of analysis results.

Implementation Method 1

The components in the sample are thereby separated from each other due to their difference in the interaction with the stationary phase (which may also be called a 'packing material') and the mobile phase in the column

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChromatography: Chromatography

Data Source

PatentUS11567046B2Data-processing device for chromatograph
Publication Date: 2023.01.31 SHIMADZU CORP
  • US11567046B2 patent drawing
  • US11567046B2 patent drawing
  • US11567046B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is a data-processing device used for a chromatograph which continuously performs a series of analyses for components in each sample while sequentially introducing a plurality of samples into a column. The device includes: an input section configured to allow for input of information into a schedule table for a plurality of analyses, the schedule table describing an analysis condition including a combination of the values of a plurality of control parameters, the order of execution of the plurality of analyses, and information for identifying a sample to be subjected to each analysis; a chromatogram creating means configured to receive data sequentially collected during two or more analyses and create a joint chromatogram from the data if the two or more analyses have been continuously performed for the same sample according to the schedule table; and a display means configured to display the joint chromatogram.