Chromatography Column Nozzle Pivot Base Plate Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing nozzle assemblies for chromatography columns face challenges in precise and easy control of nozzle tube positions, often requiring complex and costly mechanisms, which can be difficult to operate accurately.

Innovation Solution

A nozzle assembly with a pivot base plate and spring-loaded pin system allows for easy adjustment of the nozzle tube into three distinct positions, reducing the need for complex mechanics and minimizing parts, ensuring accurate and convenient operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a screwing mechanism is used to control axial movement of the nozzle probe, then the nozzle can be adjusted between fully open, partly open, and fully closed positions, but the positioning accuracy is poor and the mechanism becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of controlling nozzle positionsVSAvoidaccuracy of nozzle positions

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The invention uses a dynamic spring-loaded pin system that can be easily inserted into different holes on the pivot base plate to achieve three distinct nozzle positions (fully open, partly open, fully closed). This dynamic adjustment mechanism replaces the static screwing mechanism, providing both ease of operation and precise positioning without complicated mechanics

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces the screwing mechanism with a spring-loaded pin system that uses simple mechanical insertion and engagement. The spring-loaded pin automatically engages with holes on the pivot base plate, eliminating the need for threading and manual screwing operations, thereby improving both ease of operation and positioning accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a screwing mechanism is used for axial movement of the nozzle probe, then the nozzle can be positioned at different locations, but the production cost increases due to complicated mechanics

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to adjust nozzle positionsVSAvoidproduction cost and complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the adjustment mechanism into discrete holes on the pivot base plate, with each hole representing a specific nozzle position. The spring-loaded pin engages with these segmented positions, providing adaptability for three distinct nozzle configurations while using simple, easily manufacturable components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses a simple spring-loaded pin that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. The pin system with holes on the pivot base plate represents a cost-effective solution compared to precision screwing mechanisms, reducing production costs while maintaining full adjustability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentEP2864775B1Chromatography column nozzle

Publication Date: 2017.02.22 GE HEALTHCARE BIO SCIENCES AB

AI summary

A nozzle assembly (1) provided in a chromatography column (3), said nozzle assembly comprising a nozzle tube (21) through which chromatography media slurry is to be provided to the column (3). According to the invention said nozzle assembly (1) further comprises a pivot (39) connected in a first end (40a) to a pivot point arm (35), said pivot (39) can be pivoted into at least two different locked pivot positions and said pivot (39) being connected to the nozzle tube (21) such that a nozzle tip (25) of said nozzle tube is adjusted into at least two different locked nozzle tip positions corresponding to the at least two different locked pivot positions.