Integrated Metering Device for Liquid Chromatography Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid chromatography (LC) systems are complex, prone to failure, and difficult to service due to multiple components, which also require significant space.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where a metering device is used to push a sample into a trap column without a separate pumping device, integrating functions such as sample introduction, pressurization, and depressurization, reducing the number of components and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate components (pump, injection valve, distribution valve) are used in LC systems, then sample introduction and separation functions are achieved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pump, injection valve, and distribution valve into a single integrated component. The pump body directly houses the injection valve and distribution valve mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate connection interfaces and reducing the total number of components. This merging approach directly addresses the technical contradiction by reducing device complexity while maintaining all necessary functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated component performs multiple functions simultaneously: the pump provides fluid delivery, the injection valve enables sample introduction, and the distribution valve controls flow distribution to different columns. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require three separate components, thereby improving reliability by reducing failure points while maintaining system capability.
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate components are used in LC systems, then complete sample handling functionality is achieved, but the system requires significant space and is difficult to service
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the pump, injection valve, and distribution valve into one integrated unit, the patent reduces the number of separate components that need to be handled during servicing. Fewer components mean fewer connection points and less assembly/disassembly work required for maintenance, directly improving ease of operation and servicing.
3Reliability
If traditional separate components are used, then sample introduction and separation are achieved, but the system is prone to failure at connection points
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of pump, injection valve, and distribution valve into a single component eliminates multiple external connection points and interfaces. By removing these connection points, the patent eliminates potential failure sources such as leaks, loose connections, and interface incompatibilities, thereby improving failure resistance while reducing the number of components.
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
The solution results in a simpler, more reliable, and space-efficient LC system that is less prone to failure and easier to maintain, with improved sample handling and analysis precision.
Implementation Method 1
a metering device pushing a sample into a trap column
Implementation Method 2
Different constituents of the sample adhere to the separation column in a different manner
Data Source
AI summary
A method performed in a liquid chromatography system includes a metering device pushing a sample into a trap column. The metering device sucks in the sample from a sample reservoir, wherein the sucking in the sample from a sample reservoir precedes the step of pushing the sample into the trap column. The liquid chromatography system also includes a trap column and a metering device, wherein the system is adapted to assume a configuration allowing the metering device to push a sample into the trap column and wherein the metering device is adapted to push the sample into the trap column in this configuration, wherein the system is adapted to assume a configuration allowing the sample to be sucked into the system by means of the metering device. Furthermore, the invention relates to a use of the liquid chromatography system for liquid chromatography, in particular of high-pressure liquid chromatography.