Nuclide Separation Device With Dynamic Fluid Channel Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nuclide separating devices have limitations in throughput, particularly when handling a large number of samples, such as those required for evaluating radioactive characteristics of decommissioned wastes, as they can only continuously separate up to eight samples, which is insufficient for processes generating 40 or more samples per day.
Innovation Solution
A nuclide separating device with a column arrangement part, fluid channels for reagent and sample introduction and waste collection, and a transfer mechanism that allows for the efficient connection and disconnection of columns to facilitate continuous chemical separation of multiple samples using the extraction chromatography method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If an automatic nuclide separating device uses chemical separation technology with a fixed column arrangement, then the separation process is automated, but the throughput is limited to a maximum of eight samples continuously
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the separation system into multiple independent columns that can be individually connected to the fluid channel. Each column can be separately controlled and connected/disconnected, allowing the system to handle multiple samples simultaneously or sequentially, thereby increasing throughput from eight to potentially dozens of samples per day while maintaining automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid channel connection system is made dynamic through the ability to connect and disconnect columns from the fluid channel as needed. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to different sample volumes and separation requirements, enabling continuous processing of large numbers of samples without being constrained by a fixed column arrangement
2Manufacturing precision
If chemical separation is performed manually with extraction chromatography, then separation efficiency can be optimized by analyst skill, but the process is complicated and takes a long time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated chemical separation without requiring manual analyst intervention. The computer-controlled fluid channel automatically connects columns, regulates reagent flow, and collects fractions, eliminating the time-consuming manual operations while maintaining consistent separation efficiency through programmed protocols that can be optimized in advance
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system enables continuous chemical separation operations without interruption. Multiple columns can be connected in sequence or parallel, allowing the separation process to continue without the breaks and delays inherent in manual operations, thereby reducing total processing time while maintaining high separation efficiency through continuous reagent flow and automated monitoring
3Productivity
If a nuclide separating device is designed for high throughput with multiple columns, then the number of samples processed per day increases, but the device complexity and control system requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid channel connection system is designed as a universal interface that can connect any number of columns to the same reagent and collection systems. This multi-functional design allows the system to handle varying numbers of samples from a few to dozens per day using the same basic hardware and control architecture, increasing productivity without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The computer-controlled fluid channel acts as an intermediary between the multiple columns and the reagent/collection systems. This intermediary component automates the connection and disconnection of columns, regulates fluid flow to each column independently, and coordinates the entire separation process, thereby managing the complexity of multiple columns through centralized automated control rather than requiring complex manual coordination
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 the efficient extraction of nuclides of interest from multiple samples by allowing continuous operation and increased throughput, addressing the limitations of existing devices by enabling the separation of a larger number of samples in a single process.
Implementation Method 1
the extraction chromatography method is a method of separating nuclides of interest and interfering ions after filling a column with resin
Data Source
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AI summary
A nuclide separating device is disclosed. A nuclide separating device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a column arrangement part in which a plurality of columns are arranged; a first fluid channel through which a reagent or a sample to be introduced into each of the columns arranged in the column arrangement part is transferred; a second fluid channel through which a purified sample or waste discharged from the column is delivered to a collection part; a fluid channel forming part for connecting or disconnecting the first fluid channel and the second fluid channel to or from a random column arranged in the column arrangement part; a main pump for supplying pressure to introduce the reagent or the sample into the first fluid channel and to discharge the purified sample or waste from the column; and a transfer part for transferring the fluid channel forming part so that the fluid channel forming part can connect or disconnect the first fluid channel and the second fluid channel to or from another random column arranged in the column arrangement part.