Microcolumn with Porous Members for Compact Capillary Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capillary electrophoresis and HPLC systems face challenges in connecting capillary tubes efficiently, particularly for short chromatography columns, due to the large volume occupied by connecting members and the need for additional components, which complicates the connection process.
Innovation Solution
The development of microcolumns with a column tube and packing material, featuring porous members and positioning means, that can compactly connect capillary tubes, allowing for fluid communication and separation functions without requiring extensive additional components, and can be easily integrated into existing systems by inserting them into the capillary tube.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connecting members (ferrule, nut, sleeve) are used to connect capillary tubes, then a liquid-tight connection is achieved, but the connecting portion occupies a large volume and requires significant capillary tube length
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection function and separation function into a single integrated microcolumn component. The microcolumn includes a column tube with packing material and porous members that simultaneously serve as the connection element between capillary tubes and as the separation medium, eliminating the need for separate ferrules, nuts, and sleeves.
Solution Approach 2:
The microcolumn is designed to be inserted directly into the capillary tube lumen, with the column tube nested within the capillary tube. The porous members are positioned within the column tube to retain packing material while allowing fluid flow, creating a nested structure that maximizes space utilization.
2Reliability
If traditional connecting members are used, then a secure connection is established, but the number of components increases and the connection process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the microcolumn: connection (replacing ferrule and nut), filtration (porous members), and separation (packing material). This single component replaces what previously required 3-4 separate parts, significantly reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The microcolumn serves multiple purposes simultaneously: it acts as a connector between capillary tubes, a filter to retain packing material, and a separation column for chromatographic analysis. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized components for each function.
3Loss of time
If short chromatography columns are used, then analysis time is reduced, but traditional connecting members make it difficult to attach them properly
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the connection and separation functions into one component, the patent enables the use of very short columns (1-50 mm) without requiring additional connecting hardware. The microcolumn can be directly inserted into the capillary tube, making attachment as simple as insertion regardless of column length.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the connection function from the traditional multi-component assembly and incorporates it directly into the microcolumn structure. The column tube openings and porous members provide the connection capability inherently, eliminating the need for separate attachment mechanisms.
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 enables efficient, compact connection of capillary tubes, facilitating microscale separation systems and precise control of fluid flow, while maintaining a liquid-tight connection, thus improving the usability of capillary electrophoresis and LC-MS techniques.
Implementation Method 1
porous members disposed within the column tube in contact with both ends of the packing material
Implementation Method 2
packing material packed inside the column tube
Data Source
AI summary
Provide is a novel microcolumn that contains a packing material and can be connected to a capillary tube. A connection structure includes a connector or a microcolumn and a plurality (e.g., two) of capillary tubes. The connecting structure is configured such that the microcolumn (or connector) and the capillary tube are in fluid communication. In one embodiment, the connection structure can be configured to be liquid-tight (to prevent liquid from flowing out from the interior of the structure to the exterior).