Modular Chromatography Cartridge with On-Board Data Recording
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid chromatography systems require matching cleanup and analytical columns for optimal results, which can be time-consuming to set up and maintain, and lack on-board recording of usage history, leading to potential errors and invalidation of results.
Innovation Solution
A cartridge module integrating both cleanup and analytical chromatography columns with on-board electronics for temperature control, sensor monitoring, and data recording, allowing for quick interchange and ensuring appropriate column usage based on stored protocols and history.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional liquid chromatography systems use separate cleanup and analytical columns, then the system can perform chromatographic separations, but the setup and maintenance become time-consuming and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple chromatography columns (cleanup column and analytical column) into a single integrated cartridge assembly. This merging of previously separate columns into one modular unit reduces setup time and maintenance complexity while maintaining the functional separation needed for chromatographic operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge assembly serves multiple functions within a single device: it houses both cleanup and analytical columns, includes temperature control mechanisms, incorporates sensors for monitoring, and provides data recording capabilities. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate systems for each operation.
2Reliability
If conventional systems lack on-board recording of usage history, then the device structure remains simple, but errors and invalidation of results occur due to improper column usage
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge assembly includes on-board electronics that automatically record usage history, temperature data, and operational parameters. This self-service capability ensures proper tracking of column usage without requiring external monitoring systems, improving reliability while adding only moderate complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensors and data recording system provide continuous feedback on column usage conditions, temperature variations, and flow parameters. This feedback mechanism allows the system to monitor and record critical information for validating results and identifying when columns need replacement or maintenance.
3Reliability
If matched cleanup and analytical columns are used for optimal results, then the analytical reliability improves, but the column interchange process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By combining matched cleanup and analytical columns into a single pre-configured cartridge assembly, the system maintains optimal column matching for analytical reliability while enabling rapid interchange of entire cartridges rather than individual columns, significantly reducing setup time.
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
Facilitates rapid column interchange and ensures accurate data recording, reducing errors and improving analytical reliability by integrating matched columns and on-board data management within a single cartridge.
Implementation Method 1
Liquid chromatography (LC) is well-known in the fields of chemical separation, compound purification and chemical analysis. The retention results from the distribution of the components of the mixture between one or more stationary phases and the bulk fluid, (i.e., mobile phase), as this fluid moves relative to the stationary phase(s).
Implementation Method 2
The apparatus is further operable so as to apply a second force to a deformable sealing member so as to deform the sealing member in a fashion that creates a leak-tight seal between the tubing, end fitting and column.
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
A cartridge for chromatography separations comprises a housing; at least a first and a second chromatography column at least partially passing through the housing, each chromatography column comprising a first and a second end fitting operable to connect the chromatography to external tubing of a chromatography system. Connection fittings protruding outside of the housing at each end of each column enable fluidic connection to a chromatograph plumbing system and/or mass spectrometer detector. The cartridge may comprise heaters and temperature sensors and optional sensors to monitor fluid flow rate or pH. A passive identification feature, e.g., a barcode or RFID module may identify the cartridge and its associated chromatography methods to external software. Further, an on-board memory module and controller chip may be used to actively record computer-readable module information, including module history information, the information transferable through a standard interface, such as a universal serial bus (USB) port.