Multi-Component Test Samples for Sensorless Separation Characterization

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sample separation methods in fluidic devices, such as liquid chromatography, often deviate significantly from the target behavior due to non-ideal apparatus behavior, leading to inaccuracies and the need for external sensors for performance monitoring.

Innovation Solution

A process using a test sample with pre-known components and absolute sample separation properties to determine real operation parameters by comparing experimental results with simulated outcomes, allowing for a sensorless characterization of the sample separation apparatus.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a sample separation method is executed using conventional apparatus, then the separation process can be performed, but the real behavior deviates significantly from target behavior due to non-ideal apparatus behavior

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of separation resultsVSAvoidconsistency between target and real behavior

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the parameter representation from ideal/target values to real/actual values by using experimentally determined retention times and peak shapes. The system adjusts separation parameters based on actual apparatus behavior observed through test sample analysis, transforming the approach from theoretical to empirical parameter usage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the actual separation results using a test sample and comparing them against expected behavior. The apparatus uses this feedback to identify deviations and adjust operation parameters accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that compensates for non-ideal apparatus behavior.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If external sensors are used for performance monitoring, then apparatus performance can be tracked, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveperformance monitoring accuracyVSAvoidnumber of external sensors

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sample separation apparatus performs self-diagnosis and self-monitoring by using a test sample to evaluate its own performance. The system extracts information about its operational state from the separation results themselves, eliminating the need for external sensors and making the apparatus self-sufficient for performance monitoring.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The test sample serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a calibration standard, a performance monitor, a diagnostic tool, and a reference for parameter determination. This multi-functional approach replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate external devices, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If conventional test mixtures are used for system suitability, then basic column performance can be assessed, but precise determination of real operation parameters is not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem suitability assessmentVSAvoidparameter value determination accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary characterization by injecting a test sample before actual sample analysis to determine real operation parameters. This preliminary action establishes the actual state of the apparatus, including flow rate, temperature, and gradient conditions, which are then used to interpret subsequent analytical results accurately.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces physical sensors and direct measurements of operation parameters with a chemical/biochemical substitution approach. Instead of mechanically measuring flow rate or temperature with external sensors, the system uses the separation behavior of known test components to infer these parameters, substituting direct physical measurement with indirect chemical probing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 precise characterization of the sample separation method without external sensors, facilitating operational qualification, method transfer, and diagnostic tools for potential malfunctions, while reducing the need for recalibration and maintenance.

Implementation Method 1

a sample separation unit for separating the fluidic sample in the mobile phase

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectChromatography: Chromatography

Data Source

PatentUS12360090B2Using multi-component test sample for determining real parameter value of sample separation

Publication Date: 2025.07.15 AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES INC

AI summary

A process which, on the basis of a provided test sample including a mix of a plurality of pre-known sample components and on the basis of provided absolute sample separation properties for each of the sample components, includes experimentally determining a real sample separation result by executing a sample separation method for separating the test sample by a sample separation apparatus, and determining a real value of at least one operation parameter based on a comparison between the absolute sample separation properties and the real sample separation result for characterizing a real course of the sample separation method.