Switch Valve System for Backflush and Online Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample preparation methods for chromatographic analysis, such as the backflush process, face limitations including peak widening, inability to perform online cleaning steps, and the need for additional equipment like isocratic pumps, which restrict the complexity of processes that can be performed online.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising switch elements and distributor elements connected to control means, allowing configuration of multiple fluidic paths between separation columns, enabling flexible fluid flow and eliminating the need for selectivity considerations between columns, thereby facilitating improved sample preparation and enrichment with enhanced sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a backflush process is used with a 10-port valve, then peak widening is minimized and separation quality is improved, but the system cannot perform online cleaning steps and requires additional isocratic pumps
Solution Approach 1:
The switching valve system is designed to perform multiple functions: sample injection, backflush operation, and online cleaning steps all through the same valve configuration. The valve can be positioned in different states to enable different operational modes, making the system versatile without requiring additional specialized equipment for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a backflush process where the eluent flow direction is reversed through the separation column by configuring the switching valve. This inversion of the normal flow direction allows retained components to be eluted backwards, improving peak shape and resolution without needing separate cleaning mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional isocratic pumps are added to enable online cleaning steps, then cleaning capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The gradient pump is utilized to perform both gradient elution and online cleaning functions. By programming the pump to deliver appropriate solvent compositions at different times, the same equipment achieves multiple objectives without requiring dedicated isocratic pumps for cleaning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-cleaning through automated valve switching and gradient programming. The cleaning process is integrated into the normal operational sequence, where the system uses its own resources (solvents and pump capacity) to clean the columns without requiring separate dedicated cleaning equipment or manual intervention.
3Quantity of substance
If offline cartridges are used for sample preparation, then sample enrichment is achieved, but the process cannot be automated and requires manual manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the sample enrichment function with the analytical separation system by integrating a trapping column directly into the HPLC flow path. The trapping column is connected through switching valves that allow it to be positioned in-line with the pump and detector, merging sample preparation and analysis into a single automated flow system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous automated operation where sample loading, enrichment, and separation occur in an uninterrupted flow sequence. The switching valves automatically transition between different operational modes (loading, washing, eluting) without manual intervention, maintaining continuous fluid flow and eliminating idle time between steps.
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 allows for efficient sample preparation and enrichment with reduced peak widening and improved sensitivity, enabling online performance of complex processes without additional equipment, such as isocratic pumps, and allowing for additional cleaning steps and flexible chromatographic configurations.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second switch elements being connected to control means for opening and closing the switch element inputs and switch element outputs; a first distributor element with at least three ports and a second distributor element with at least three ports
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for sample preparation and/or sample enrichment are provided. The system comprises the following components: a first switch element with a switch element input and at least two mutually exclusive switch element outputs and a second corresponding switch element with at least two mutually exclusive switch element inputs and a switch element output, the first and second switch elements being connected to control means for opening and closing the switch element inputs and switch element outputs; a first distributor element with at least three ports and a second distributor element with at least three ports; as well as a first separation column and a second separation column, the components being in such fluidic communication with each other that by means of different positions of the switch elements it is possible to configure at least two different fluidic paths in the system, wherein said different positions are achievable through the control means. The system allows, for example, the simple performance of the backflush process.