Flow Module Selector for Liquid Chromatography
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LC/MS systems face limitations in flexibility and precision when adjusting flow rates, requiring hardware changes and introducing potential errors like leaks or clogs when switching between different flow restrictors to accommodate varying flow rates.
Innovation Solution
A system with pre-calibrated fluid flow modules and a selector valve allows for selective delivery of mobile phases to an LC column, enabling adjustable flow rates without hardware changes, using multiple pre-calibrated flow modules and pumps to provide a wide range of flow rates and dynamic adjustments during runtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different calibrated restrictors or cartridges are used to address different ranges of flow rates, then the flow rate range is expanded, but the device complexity increases and flexibility is limited due to hardware changes
Solution Approach 1:
A single flow module is designed to perform multiple functions by delivering different flow rates through software-controlled pump speed adjustments rather than requiring different physical restrictors for different flow rate ranges
Solution Approach 2:
The flow rate is controlled by changing the operational parameters (pump speed) of a single flow module rather than changing the physical structure or replacing hardware components, allowing continuous adjustment across different flow rate ranges
2Adaptability or versatility
If user-replaceable cartridges with different flow rates are used, then flow rate adjustment is possible, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to time-consuming replacement and potential sources of failure
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically adjusts flow rates through software control of the pump speed without requiring user intervention to physically replace cartridges or restrictors, eliminating manual operations and associated errors
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical system of replacing physical cartridges is replaced with an electronic/software-based control system that adjusts pump speed to change flow rates, eliminating the need for manual hardware changes
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 solution provides flexible and precise control over flow rates, eliminating the need for hardware changes and reducing the risk of errors, allowing for seamless adjustments and varying concentrations of mobile phases, enhancing the operational efficiency of LC/MS systems.
Implementation Method 1
flow rate measurements can be performed by measuring a pressure differential across a calibrated fluid flow module
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a system for adjusting flow rate of at least one mobile phase delivered to a liquid chromatography (LC) column is disclosed, which includes a first plurality of pre-calibrated flow modules each configured to receive a first mobile phase at an inlet port thereof and to provide a pre-calibrated range of output flow rates of said first mobile phase at its outlet port, wherein said first plurality of flow modules are configured to provide different ranges of output flow rates of said first mobile phase, and a first selector valve in fluid communication with said first plurality of pre-calibrated flow modules for selecting among said first plurality of pre-calibrated flow modules for selective delivery of said first mobile phase to said LC column, thereby adjusting the flow rate of the first mobile phase delivered to said LC column.