Modular HPLC Fluid Handling Layout for Flexible Flow Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid handling systems lack flexibility in adapting to various applications, require time-consuming upgrades, and are restricted by manufacturer-specific kits, with fluid flow paths often needing external add-on equipment and complex replacement of defective units.
Innovation Solution
A modular fluid handling system with interchangeable components, including pumps, valves, and sensors, allowing easy upgrades and flexible flow path optimization without additional equipment, using a master control unit for seamless integration and configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fluid handling systems are designed for a specific application with a specific flow path, then the system structure is simplified and easier to manufacture, but the flexibility and ability to alter or optimize the fluid flow path is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular fluid handling units that can be independently configured and rearranged. Each unit contains specific fluid handling components (pumps, valves, mixers) that can be selectively positioned along the flow path to create different experimental configurations without redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic reconfigurability where the flow path can be altered during operation or between experiments by repositioning modular units. This allows the system to adapt to different applications while maintaining a standardized base structure, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and flow path flexibility.
2Stability of the object's composition
If upgrade kits are supplied as external add-on equipment, then the original system structure is preserved, but the footprint of the system is enlarged and additional fluidic and electrical connections are required
Solution Approach 1:
Upgrade capabilities are merged into the core modular architecture rather than being external add-ons. The modular fluid handling units can be directly integrated into the existing system footprint, eliminating the need for separate external equipment and reducing the overall system area while maintaining structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular units are designed with universal interfaces and standardized connections that allow them to serve multiple functions across different applications. This multi-functionality enables upgrades without requiring additional specialized equipment, thereby preserving the original system structure and minimizing footprint expansion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular components are made interchangeable with external fluidics section separated from non fluidics section by a panel, then the system adaptability and ease of upgrading is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The separation of fluidics and non-fluidics sections into distinct modular components actually reduces overall system complexity by allowing independent design, manufacturing, and maintenance of each section. The standardized interfaces between modules simplify integration compared to monolithic designs, as each module can be optimized independently while maintaining overall system adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is An automated liquid chromatography system (100) comprising: a housing unit (20); and multiple modular fluid handling units (1-26), having a fluidics section, wherein the housing unit (20) comprises, on an external surface of the housing unit a plurality of discrete receiving positions, each receiving position being adapted to receive one of the modular fluid handling units (1-26) therein such that a respective fluidics section thereof is external to the housing unit, wherein a fluid flow path is formed by fluidic interconnections between the modular fluid handling units, wherein the modular fluid handling units: are readily interchangeable in the housing unit, such that positioning of the modular fluid handling unit with respect to other modular fluid handling units permits optimization of the fluid flow path; and include a CPU for independently performing fluid control operations in response to instructions over a system BUS (42) connected to said modular units arranged in the housing.