Rotatable Chromatography Valve Panel for Low Void Volume Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-column chromatography systems are complex, expensive, and have a large void volume, leading to inefficiencies in processing smaller quantities and increased waste, with remote sensors causing delays in fluid property determination and suboptimal switching between columns.
Innovation Solution
A chromatography system with a panel featuring rotatable valves and integrated fluid channels, reducing the need for multiple pinch valves and minimizing void volume, and allowing for easier sensor placement close to columns for timely fluid control and efficient processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple pinch valves are mounted on separate tubes for each column, then fluid flow control is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple pinch valves are integrated into a single rotatable valve assembly that controls fluid flow to multiple columns simultaneously. The valve body incorporates multiple valve seats and ports arranged radially, allowing one rotating component to perform the function of multiple separate valves, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining flow control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable valve assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as a flow distributor to multiple columns, a flow controller, and a switching mechanism all in one device. By making the valve multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate control mechanisms for each column, reducing both complexity and cost.
2Quantity of substance
If large volume tubing and conduits are used for fluid transfer, then fluid flow capacity is sufficient, but void volume increases causing waste and processing inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear tubing to a two-dimensional planar panel structure with integrated channels. The fluid distribution board features shallow channels etched or formed on its surface, creating a compact routing system that minimizes the volume of fluid pathways while maintaining adequate flow capacity through optimized channel geometry and direct routing to column interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly and fluid distribution channels are nested within a compact panel structure. The rotatable valve is housed within a cavity in the fluid distribution board, and the channels are integrated into the board's thickness, creating a space-efficient arrangement that minimizes overall system volume and void space.
3Ease of manufacture
If sensors are positioned remote from chromatography columns, then sensor placement is simplified, but response time delays occur in determining fluid properties
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is extracted from remote positioning and placed directly at the column outlet interface on the fluid distribution board. This allows the sensor to be integrated into the critical measurement zone without complicating the overall system architecture, as the board's modular design naturally accommodates sensor mounting at strategic locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid distribution board serves as an intermediary platform that bridges the chromatography column and the sensor. It provides a mounting surface and fluid pathway that enables direct sensor placement at the column outlet, allowing real-time monitoring of effluent properties while maintaining system modularity and ease of assembly.
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
The system enhances processing efficiency by reducing void volume, minimizing waste, and enabling faster, more precise control over fluid flow, making it more cost-effective and easier to operate and maintain.
Implementation Method 1
a rotatable valve directed fluid flow from an inlet channel to different outlet channels depending on a rotational position of the valve
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A chromatography system includes a first chromatography column and a panel having a top face and an opposing bottom face, a first cavity being formed on the panel so as to pass through the top face and be encircled by an inner surface. The panel bounds an inlet fluid channel having an end terminating at an inlet opening formed on the inner surface encircling the first cavity so that the inlet fluid channel communicates with the first cavity. The panel also bounds a plurality of first outlet fluid channels each having an end terminating at an outlet opening formed on the inner surface encircling the first cavity so that each of the plurality of first outlet fluid channels communicate with the first cavity, a first one of the plurality of first outlet fluid channels being in fluid communication with the first chromatography column. A first valve is rotatably disposed within the first cavity.