Field Flow Fractionation Device Parallel Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Field flow fractionation devices require significant time for sequential analysis of samples due to conditioning needs, making them inefficient, and using multiple devices increases solvent consumption and costs.
Innovation Solution
A field flow fractionation device with a separation cell group, dual carrier fluid supply units, and a channel switching unit allows for the reuse of carrier fluid between separation cells, enabling parallel analysis without additional solvent consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If sequential analysis is performed using a single field flow fractionation device, then device complexity is kept simple, but analysis time increases significantly due to conditioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple separation cells (first separation cell, second separation cell, etc.) that can operate independently. Each separation cell has its own inlet port, outlet port, and separation channel, allowing parallel processing of multiple samples without requiring full device conditioning between analyses.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier fluid supply unit continuously supplies carrier fluid to all separation cells in advance, maintaining readiness for analysis. The system pre-configures multiple separation channels with carrier fluid flow, eliminating the need for time-consuming conditioning procedures before each analysis.
2Productivity
If multiple field flow fractionation devices are used for parallel analysis, then analysis efficiency improves, but solvent consumption and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separation cells are integrated into a single device structure, sharing common components such as the carrier fluid supply unit, control unit, and housing. This merging allows parallel analysis capability while avoiding the redundant solvent consumption that would occur with multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier fluid supply unit serves multiple separation cells simultaneously, making it a universal component that performs the same function across different analysis channels. This multi-functionality enables parallel processing with a single carrier fluid source, reducing overall solvent consumption.
3Productivity
If multiple field flow fractionation devices are used for parallel analysis, then analysis efficiency improves, but device costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from single-channel sequential analysis to multi-channel parallel analysis by adding spatial dimensions (multiple separation cells arranged in series or parallel). This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous processing of multiple samples while maintaining a compact integrated structure.
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
This configuration improves analysis efficiency while maintaining a simple device configuration and reducing costs by reusing carrier fluid, thus reducing the time required for sequential sample analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a micropore-bearing semipermeable membrane (also called a separation membrane) made of RC (regenerated cellulose), PES (polyethersulfone), or the like
Implementation Method 2
When carrier fluid is introduced into the channel, it traverses this wall and generates flow (cross-flow) orthogonal to the flow traveling from the inlet port to the outlet port of the separation channel
Implementation Method 3
a counter flow (focus flow) is formed within the separation channel by the channel flow of carrier fluid supplied from the inlet port and carrier fluid supplied from the port on the outlet port side, causing the sample introduced into the separation channel to be collected at the boundary between the channel flow and the focus flow
Implementation Method 4
focus flow is stopped, causing the flow within the separation channel to be reduced to only channel flow and cross-flow, at which point Stokes flow causes sample particles to be discharged from the separation channel via the outlet port in sequence from smallest to largest
Data Source
AI summary
Field flow fractionation device includes a channel switching unit for switching the connection of a second carrier fluid supply unit to any one of the second inlet port of an upper separation cell, the first inlet port of a lower separation cell, or the second inlet port of a lower separation cell. Furthermore, the second carrier fluid supply unit is connected to the second inlet port of an upper separation cell during the process of focusing to generate flow of carrier fluid counter to the flow of carrier fluid from the first inlet port within the upper separation cell, whereas the second carrier fluid supply unit is connected to the first inlet port or the second inlet port of a lower separation cell after conclusion of focusing in the upper separation cell.