Mass Spectrometer Sample Introduction Valve Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current high throughput analysis devices face challenges in achieving rapid cleaning processes, particularly in mass spectrometry, due to variations in sample viscosity and the need for extensive cleaning protocols, which hinder the ability to perform analyses within 30 seconds while maintaining accuracy and minimizing carryover.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a mass spectroscope with a sample introduction unit, liquid feeding unit, sample condensation unit, and detection unit, featuring a syringe valve, sample introduction valve, cleaning valve, and elution valve, allows for simultaneous sample introduction and cleaning, utilizing a control unit to manage flow paths and solution mixing ratios to optimize cleaning efficiency and reduce carryover.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If vacuum suction method is used to introduce sample into flow path pipe, then sample introduction speed is improved, but sample moving speed becomes non-constant due to viscosity variations requiring extensive cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is divided into multiple segments with separate control valves (front six-way valve, rear six-way valve) that can independently switch flow paths. This segmentation allows the sample to be directed through different routes, enabling the introduction of minimal sample volume while maintaining constant speed through pressure control, thereby reducing cleaning time.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the pressure parameter by using a pressure generator to maintain constant sample moving speed in the flow path pipe, overcoming the viscosity-related speed variations of the vacuum suction method. This parameter change eliminates the need for extensive cleaning while maintaining high introduction speed.
2Quantity of substance
If large amount of sample is introduced into flow path pipe before and after sample loop, then sample loop can be properly filled, but cleaning requirement increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a sample loop pre-filled with sample or a mechanism to ensure proper sample presence in the loop before analysis begins. This preliminary action eliminates the need to continuously introduce large amounts of sample to maintain loop filling, thereby reducing cleaning requirements and increasing throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention maintains continuous sample flow through the system using a pressure generator and controlled valve switching, ensuring the sample loop is continuously filled without requiring periodic large sample introductions. This continuous action reduces waste sample volume and cleaning needs while maintaining high productivity.
3Productivity
If cleaning process is accelerated to achieve high throughput, then productivity is improved, but analysis accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates automated valve switching and pressure control systems that automatically manage sample introduction, loop filling, and cleaning processes. This self-service mechanism ensures that even with accelerated throughput, the cleaning process is sufficient to maintain analysis accuracy without requiring manual intervention or extended cleaning times.
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 enables high throughput cleaning and analysis, ensuring accurate and efficient sample processing while minimizing carryover and reducing maintenance needs, thereby enhancing the overall performance of mass spectrometry systems.
Implementation Method 1
a sample is sucked from a sample vial mounted on a sample rack by a needle suction method, and the sample is injected into an injection port of an injection valve to be introduced into the flow path system including a column
Implementation Method 2
a sample is sucked from a sample vial mounted on a sample rack by a needle suction method
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An analysis device of the present invention is provided with: a sample introduction unit (101) that introduces a sample into a mass spectroscope (100); a sample condensation unit (103) that treats the sample introduced into the device; a detection unit (104) that analyzes the sample treated by a treatment unit; and a control unit (105) that controls the sample introduction unit (101), the sample condensation unit (103), and the detection unit (104). The sample introduction unit (101) includes a sample introduction valve (204), and the sample condensation unit (103) includes an elution valve (402) and a cleaning valve (401), and the cleaning valve (401) is disposed between the sample introduction valve (204) and the elution valve (402).