Chromatography Valve Routing for Single and Multidimensional Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multidimensional liquid chromatography systems are not readily reconfigurable to perform both single and multidimensional chromatography without requiring replumbing, limiting their deployment and acceptance.
Innovation Solution
A chromatography system with a valve system that allows for seamless switching between single and multidimensional modes by using a first and second solvent delivery subsystems, a sample injection system, and a valve system with two valves to direct flow to either a first or second dimension column path without altering the fluidic structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a system is configured for multidimensional liquid chromatography, then it can perform MDLC separations, but it cannot perform single dimensional separation without replumbing
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates multiple valve configurations that enable a single chromatography system to perform both multidimensional and single dimensional separations. The valve system can be set to different positions to route flow through either one column (single dimensional) or multiple columns in sequence (multidimensional), making the system universal for both separation modes without requiring physical reconfiguration or replumbing
2Adaptability or versatility
If replumbing is required to switch between MDLC and single dimensional separation, then mode switching is possible, but system usability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic valve positioning to enable easy switching between separation modes. Instead of static plumbing configurations, the system uses controllable valves that can be electronically switched between different positions to route flow through different column configurations, allowing rapid and easy mode transitions without manual plumbing changes
Data Source
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AI summary
A system capable of performing both single and multidimensional liquid chromatography includes a solvent delivery system, a sample injection system, a first dimension column path configured to perform a separation process in a first dimension, a second dimension column path configured to perform a separation process in a second dimension that is different than the first dimension, a valve system; and a sample injection system fluidically connected to the valve system. The valve system is configured to direct flow from a sample injection system to a first dimension column path when the valve system is in a first position, and to direct flow from the sample injection system to the second dimension column path without the flow path flowing through the first dimension column path in the chromatography system when the valve system is in a second position.