Parallel Preprocessing of Capillary Electrophoresis Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional capillary electrophoresis analysis methods face inefficiencies when analyzing multiple samples, as the preprocessing steps, such as cleaning, must be completed sequentially, leading to increased latency times and reduced overall analysis efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An analysis apparatus and method that utilize a control unit to simultaneously perform preprocessing steps across multiple separation channels, allowing for staggered start times and parallel processing of cleaning, filling, and sample dispensing, while using a switching valve system to manage the flow of cleaning and electrophoresis liquids, and detectors positioned off-center for efficient detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If preprocessing steps are performed sequentially on multiple separation channels, then each channel is properly prepared for analysis, but the total analysis time increases due to latency periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preprocessing steps in advance and in parallel across multiple separation channels before analysis begins. The control unit coordinates simultaneous cleaning, filling, and sample dispensing operations on different channels, eliminating sequential waiting time while ensuring each channel is properly prepared.
Solution Approach 2:
The preprocessing workflow is divided into independent segments that can be executed simultaneously on different separation channels. Each channel undergoes cleaning, filling, and sample dispensing as separate operable units, allowing parallel processing without interference between channels.
2Productivity
If more separation channels are used to analyze more samples, then sample throughput increases, but the complexity of coordinating preprocessing steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple separation channels with a unified control system, managing cleaning, filling, and sample dispensing operations across all channels through a single coordinated interface. This multi-functional approach increases throughput while avoiding the need for separate control systems for each channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that coordinates between the preprocessing mechanisms (cleaning systems, filling systems, sample dispensing systems) and the multiple separation channels. It manages the timing and sequencing of operations, simplifying the coordination complexity by centralizing control logic.
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
This approach significantly reduces the time required for preprocessing, enabling faster completion of analysis steps and enhancing the overall efficiency of the analysis process by allowing concurrent preparation and analysis of multiple channels.
Implementation Method 1
a switching valve for switching the flow of the cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid reservoir to any of the plurality of separation channels
Implementation Method 2
The separated particular component is detected by, for example, an optical technique
Implementation Method 3
by application of voltage across the separation channel, an electro-osmotic flow is created to cause the electrophoresis liquid to migrate from the positive electrode side to the negative electrode side
Implementation Method 4
by application of voltage, the particular component in the sample tries to migrate according to its electrophoretic mobility
Data Source
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AI summary
An analysis apparatus (1) includes a plurality of separation channels (30a-30d), a detector (40), and a control unit (71). In each separation channel, a particular component contained in a sample (2) is separated from other components. The detector (40) detects the separated particular component. The control unit (71) controls an analysis step and a preprocessing step. The analysis step includes a separation step of performing the separation and a detection step of performing the detection in each separation channel. The preprocessing step is performed to put each separation channel into a state in which it can perform the analysis step. The control unit (71) simultaneously carries out at least parts of the preprocessing steps of at least two of the plurality of separation channels (30a-30d).