Dead Volume-Free Fraction Collection via Fluid Line Transition

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional fraction collection systems suffer from internal dead volume, leading to back mixing and loss of sample during the transfer process, which is particularly problematic in high-speed chromatography applications like LC-NMR, where precise and quick fraction collection is essential.

Innovation Solution

A fraction collection apparatus with a fluid line connected to a fluid pump, where the capillary and fluid line have outlet openings positioned in close proximity to each other, allowing for direct transition of the liquid fraction into the fluid line, thereby eliminating dead volume and enabling precise and complete aspiration or transfer of the fraction without mixing with adjacent samples.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of substance

If conventional fraction collection systems are used, then mechanical transfer of fractions is achieved, but internal dead volume causes back mixing and sample loss

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample lossVSAvoidinternal dead volume

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts and eliminates the dead volume problem by transitioning from a mechanical transfer system with internal volumes to a continuous flow system where the mobile phase carries fractions directly to collection vessels, removing the source of back mixing and sample loss

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces the mechanical fraction collector with a flow-based system using the mobile phase to transport fractions, substituting mechanical transfer with fluid dynamic transport to eliminate dead volume and improve sample recovery

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If conventional mechanical fraction collectors are used, then fraction transfer is achieved, but back mixing occurs reducing fraction purity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefraction purityVSAvoidinternal dead volume

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts and eliminates the dead volume problem by transitioning from a mechanical transfer system with internal volumes to a continuous flow system where the mobile phase carries fractions directly to collection vessels, removing the source of back mixing and sample loss

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces the mechanical fraction collector with a flow-based system using the mobile phase to transport fractions, substituting mechanical transfer with fluid dynamic transport to eliminate dead volume and improve sample recovery

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If rapid mechanical positioning is used, then fraction collection speed is improved, but mechanical complexity and potential mixing increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefraction collection speedVSAvoidmechanical reaction speed

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the mechanical fraction collector with a flow-based system using the mobile phase to transport fractions, substituting mechanical transfer with fluid dynamic transport to eliminate dead volume and improve sample recovery

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention maintains continuous flow of the mobile phase throughout the fraction collection process, eliminating interruptions and mechanical positioning actions, thereby maintaining constant productivity without mechanical complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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 prevents unwanted mixing of fractions, reduces uncontrolled dripping, and allows for efficient positioning of target vessels, ensuring high-purity fraction collection without the need for rapid mechanical reactions, thereby improving the accuracy and reproducibility of the fraction collection process.

Implementation Method 1

comprising a capillary (2), which can guide a liquid fraction from the separation or reaction apparatus (1) to a branching unit (3)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapillary action: Capillary Action

Implementation Method 2

a fluid line (6) opens into the branching unit (3), which is fluidically connected to a fluid pump (7)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPump: Pump

Data Source

PatentUS11680929B2Dead volume-free fraction collection apparatus

Publication Date: 2023.06.20 BRUKER BIOSPIN MRI GMBH

AI summary

An apparatus for collecting liquid fractions from a separation/reaction apparatus (1). A capillary (2) guides an extracted liquid fraction to a branching unit (3), a collection arrangement (4) carries a plurality of target vessels (5) receiving the liquid fraction from the capillary and a fluid line (6) is flow-connected to a fluid pump (7) and opens into the branching unit. The capillary and the fluid line each have outlet openings in the direct vicinity of one another at their end facing a target vessel such that liquid emerging from the outlet opening (2′) of the capillary transitions into the outlet opening (6′) of the fluid line. This precludes back mixing with earlier/later liquid fractions, precludes uncontrolled dripping of sample substance at the transfer point, speeds displacement of the target vessels in the collection arrangement, facilitates automation of the fraction processing procedure, and results in a more compact fraction collection apparatus.