Liquid Chromatograph Flow Path Switching for Multi-Column Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid chromatograph mass spectrometry systems are limited to using only two measurement blocks with different columns and mobile phases, which increases costs and reduces efficiency when analyzing samples with varying characteristics such as polarity, hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity, and molecular size.
Innovation Solution
A liquid chromatograph system with three or more columns, each with a fluid supply unit and a flow path switching unit that allows for parallel operation, enabling sharing of an autosampler and detector, and simultaneous equilibration or washing of standby columns during sample measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dual liquid chromatograph mass spectrometry system with two measurement blocks is used, then cost is reduced compared to having separate liquid chromatographs, but the system can only handle two types of measurement conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement functionality into separate measurement blocks (each with column and fluid supply unit) that can be independently configured and switched, allowing multiple measurement conditions to be handled through modular segmentation rather than a monolithic system
Solution Approach 2:
The flow path switching unit enables a single detector and autosampler to serve multiple measurement blocks, creating a universal system where one detector can analyze samples from different columns under various conditions, increasing adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Productivity
If columns are switched sequentially in a conventional system, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but measurement throughput decreases due to repeated equilibration time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary equilibration of standby columns in advance while the current column is being used for measurement. The flow path switching unit allows equilibration mobile phase to flow through standby columns simultaneously, so when switching is needed, the standby column is already equilibrated and ready for immediate use
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous useful action by performing column equilibration in parallel with sample measurement. While one column is measuring samples, other columns are being equilibrated simultaneously through the flow path switching unit, ensuring that measurement activity never stops and throughput is maximized
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid chromatograph includes a plurality of columns, fluid supply units each configured to feed a predetermined solution in parallel with inlet side flow paths of the plurality of columns, a sample injection unit capable of selectively injecting a sample into one of the inlet side flow paths of the plurality of columns, and a flow path switching unit disposed on exit sides of the plurality of columns and configured to selectively connect one of outlet side flow paths of the plurality of columns to a flow path connected to a detector arranged on a downstream side of the flow path switching unit and connect outlet side flow paths of other columns to a waste liquid flow path. The liquid chromatograph may improve a throughput by shortening a time required for a series of measurements in which a sample is measured under a plurality of conditions by alternatively using a plurality of columns.