Modular Chromatograph Assembly with Reconfigurable Column and Detector Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional chromatograph systems lack flexibility and efficiency in configuration, limiting their ability to adapt to different analytical needs and requiring rebuilding when components are added or replaced.
Innovation Solution
A trans-configurable modular chromatograph system comprising a core unit and self-supporting column and detector modules, allowing for reconfiguration by adding or interchanging components, with advanced temperature control and fluid switching mechanisms for enhanced separation and detection capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional chromatograph systems use fixed configuration, then system stability is maintained, but adaptability to different analytical needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The chromatograph system is divided into independent modular components including column modules, detector modules, and a core unit. Each module can be independently selected, added, removed, or replaced without affecting other modules, enabling flexible reconfiguration for different analytical needs while maintaining system stability through standardized interfaces.
2Productivity
If conventional chromatograph systems require rebuilding when components are added or replaced, then system reliability is maintained, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs universal standardized interfaces and mounting mechanisms that allow different types of column and detector modules to be interchangeably connected to the core unit. This enables rapid reconfiguration for various analytical applications without requiring system rebuilding, while maintaining reliability through consistent connection protocols and modular design.
3Ease of operation
If conventional chromatograph systems lack modular components, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Column modules and detector modules are pre-assembled with integrated mounting mechanisms and connection interfaces before being delivered to the user. This preliminary preparation of modular components with standardized connections simplifies both manufacturing processes and final system assembly, while providing operational flexibility for easy reconfiguration.
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
Enables flexible and efficient analysis by allowing multiple column and detector configurations, improving separation and detection capabilities, and enabling the use of different column and detector types for comprehensive chemical analysis without rebuilding the entire system.
Implementation Method 1
a thermally insulated first enclosure. Within the thermally insulated first enclosure there is a first heater member, which is positioned to heat the interior of the thermally insulated first enclosure housing
Implementation Method 2
a temperature controller, which controls the heater member and is programmed to maintain the thermally insulated enclosure at a uniform temperature throughout an analysis
Implementation Method 3
a capillary column heater member, a capillary column analyte inlet member, a capillary column analyte outlet member, and means for sensing and controlling the temperature of the capillary column
Implementation Method 4
a detector member, a detector member analyte inlet member... The capillary column analyte outlet member is in fluid communication with the detector module inlet member
Data Source
AI summary
A trans-configurable modular chromatograph assembly is provided with a core unit, at least one column module, and at least one detector module. The core unit includes a controller module having a first computer processing unit, an analogue to digital signal converter, and a thermally insulated enclosure. The enclosure includes a first heater member positioned to heat the thermally insulated first enclosure housing, a first analytes stream inlet, and a first analyte stream conduit. A temperature controller is programmed to maintain the thermally insulated first enclosure at a uniform temperature throughout an analysis. The at least one column module includes a computer processor, means for releasably securing the core unit to a column module, a capillary column, a capillary column heater member, and means for sensing and controlling the temperature of the capillary column. The capillary column has an analyte outlet member in fluid communication with at least one detector module. The at least one detector module has a computer processing unit, and an analogue to digital signal converter, means for releasably securing said core unit to the detector module. The detector module includes detector member within a thermally insulated enclosure.