Multi-Injection Mode Valve Module for Automated Dispersion Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Manually altering the system mixing volume or sample dispersion in liquid chromatography systems invalidates the qualification, requiring time-consuming requalification, which is inefficient and disruptive to the workflow.
Innovation Solution
A chromatography system with a valve module that allows for automated and selective adjustment of system volume and sample dispersion, enabling configurations that match legacy systems without requalification, using a processor to control multiple valve positions and mixers to alter fluid paths and flow directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual alteration of system mixing volume or sample dispersion is performed, then the system can be adapted to different chromatography needs, but the qualification is invalidated and requalification is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamically switchable flow paths through electronically controlled valves that can alter system mixing volume and sample dispersion characteristics without manual intervention. The processor-controlled valve module enables real-time reconfiguration of fluid paths, allowing the system to adapt between different chromatography modes (e.g., high sample dispersion vs. low sample dispersion) while maintaining qualification status.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment of system volume with an automated electronic control system. The processor-controlled valve module substitutes human-operated mechanical changes with automated electronic valve actuation, enabling rapid reconfiguration of flow paths and system characteristics without requiring time-consuming manual requalification procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual changes are made to accommodate legacy system configurations, then compatibility is achieved, but workflow is disrupted and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve module provides multi-functional capability by supporting multiple flow path configurations within a single integrated component. It can operate in different modes (e.g., mode A with mixers in flow path, mode B with mixers bypassed) to accommodate both legacy and contemporary chromatography system requirements, eliminating the need for separate dedicated systems and improving overall workflow efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables dynamic switching between different operational modes through processor-controlled valve actuation. This allows rapid adaptation to match legacy system configurations when needed, while maintaining the ability to operate in optimized contemporary modes, thereby achieving both compatibility and efficiency without workflow disruption.
3Extent of automation
If automated valve positioning is implemented, then system reconfiguration becomes efficient, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve module is designed as a segmented, modular component with distinct flow path sections and independently controllable valve elements. This segmentation allows the complex functionality to be achieved through coordinated operation of simpler sub-components, making the automation more manageable and the device easier to control despite its enhanced capabilities.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A chromatography system has an associated system volume and a sample dispersion volume. The chromatography system comprises a pump pumping a flow of gradient, a sample manager for introducing a sample into the flow of gradient, and a valve manager fluidically coupled to the pump and to the sample manager. The valve manager includes at least one valve. A first valve of the at least one valve has a plurality of ports including an inlet port that receives the flow of gradient from the pump and an outlet port through which the flow of gradient exits the first valve. The first valve has at least two different, automatically selectable positions. A first position of the at least two different automatically selectable positions operating to change one of the system and sample dispersion volumes of the chromatography system when the first valve is automatically switched into the first position.