DE102014109551A1 - Injector with optional dosing pump that can be switched into or out of the analytical path - Google Patents

Abstract

An injector (40) for injecting a fluidic sample into an analytical path of a sample separator (10) between an analytical pump (20) for delivering mobile phase and a sample separator (30) for separating the fluid sample into fractions, the injector (40). a needle (200) insertable into a sample container (277) for introducing the fluidic sample and insertable into a seat (202) for injecting the fluidic sample into the analytical path, the seat (202), a sample receiving volume (204 In fluid communication with the needle (200) for temporarily receiving the retracted fluidic sample, an injector pump (206) adapted to apply a sample draw force to draw the fluid sample from the sample container (277) through the needle (200) into the sample receiving volume (204 ) and a switching means (208, 210) adapted to selectively switch the injector (40) to a first mode of operation, in which the injector pump (206) is fluidically decoupled from the analytical path between the analytical pump (20) and the sample separator (30), and into a second mode of operation in which the injector pump (206) enters the analytical path between the analytical pump (20). and the sample separator (30) is inserted.

Description

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

 The present invention relates to an injector, a sample separation apparatus and a method of operating an injector.

In an HPLC, a liquid (mobile phase) is typically run at a very precisely controlled flow rate (for example in the range of microliters to milliliters per minute) and at a high pressure (typically 20 to 1000 bar and beyond, currently up to 2000 bar). , in which the compressibility of the liquid is felt, moved by a stationary phase (for example, a chromatographic column) to separate individual components of a sample liquid introduced into the mobile phase from each other. Such an HPLC system is for example from EP 0,309,596 B1 by the same Applicant, Agilent Technologies, Inc.

For liquid chromatography, it is necessary to introduce a fluid sample to be tested into the system. Such systems for introducing (also referred to as injecting or introducing) a fluid sample are out US 4,939,943 . US 3,916,692 or US 3,376,694 known.

 Thus, in such and other meters, an injector incorporating an injector loop may be provided for introducing a fluid sample into a path between a high pressure pump and a separation column. In such an injector loop, a needle may be disposed in a seat, wherein for receiving the fluid sample, the needle moves out of the seat, immersed in a sample vessel for aspirating the fluid sample and then retracts into the seat. After switching over a fluid valve configured as an injection valve, the fluid sample thus taken up is brought into the high-pressure path between the high-pressure pump and the separation column.

 In such and other systems, fluid flow may thus be controlled by one or more fluid valves that may be in fluid communication with one or more separation columns and may, for example, control fluid delivery to the separation column (s). Such fluid valves may include a stator with connection ports and a rotor with channels, wherein the connection ports may be statically connected to fluid lines and the channels may be rotated with the rotor so as to fluidly couple different ones of the connection ports by means of a respective channel in different switching positions and others fluidically decouple the connection ports.

EPIPHANY

 It is an object of the invention to provide an injector in which an injector pump contained therein can, if necessary, fulfill a high level of functionality and can be operated correspondingly flexibly. The object is achieved by means of the independent claims. Further embodiments are shown in the dependent claims.

 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an injector for injecting a fluidic sample (wherein a fluid may be a liquid and / or a gas, optionally comprising solid particles) into an analytical path of a sample separation device between an analytical pump for promoting mobile phase and a Sample separator for separating the fluidic sample into fractions created, wherein the injector a needle, which is insertable for drawing the fluidic sample into a sample container and for injecting the fluidic sample in the analytical path in a seat (in particular pressure-resistant and / or fluid-tight) insertable and the seat, a sample receiving volume in fluid communication with the needle for temporarily receiving the retracted fluidic sample, an injector pump (in particular a piston pump) adapted to apply a sample drawing force to draw the fluidic sample from the sample container the needle is arranged in the sample receiving volume, and one (in particular by means of a control device - which can also control other particular fluidic components of the sample separation device - controllable) switching means for selectively switching the injector in a first operating mode (also called injector pump analysis pump Decoupling mode may be a sample separation and / or sample application mode) in which the injector pump is fluidically decoupled from the analytical path between the analytical pump and the sample separator and into a second mode of operation (also referred to as injector pump analysis pump coupling mode) and may be a purge mode) in which the injector pump is inserted into the analytical path between the analytical pump and the sample separator.

According to another exemplary embodiment, a sample separator is provided for separating a mobile phase fluid sample into fractions, wherein the sample separator is an analytical pump for delivering the mobile phase, an injector having the above-described features for injecting the fluid sample into an analytical path between the analytical pump and a sample separator, and the sample separator for Separating the fluidic sample contained in the mobile phase delivered by the analytical pump into fractions.

 According to yet another exemplary embodiment, there is provided a method of operating an injector having the features described above, wherein in the method, the switching means is switched to the first mode of operation and in the first mode of operation the fluidic sample is drawn into the sample receiving volume, and wherein the Switching means is switched to the second operating mode and in the second operating mode, the drawn-in fluidic sample is injected from the sample receiving volume in the analytical path between the analytical pump and the sample separator.

According to one embodiment of the invention, an injector is provided in which a switching device selectively switches an injector pump into an analytical path between an analytical pump and a sample separator or fluidly decouples from this analytical path. As a result, two well-defined coupling states can be specified in which the injector pump can be brought back into different fluidic connection states in each case. The first operating mode (see for example 2 and 4 ) corresponds to an injector pump analysis pump decoupling mode and may be used, for example, for sample separation in the analytical path or for simultaneous or sequential sample collection and / or pre-compression using the injector pump. The second operating mode (see for example 3 and 5 ) corresponds to an injector pump analysis pump coupling mode and may be used, for example, to purge at least a portion of the injector path involving the analytical pump. The flexibility of using the injector pump can be significantly increased, as the preceding examples illustrate, by selectively switching the injector pump on or off from the analytical separation path. As a result, an injector pump with a higher and flexible selectable range of functions can be acted upon. In addition, the idle time during operation of the sample separating device can be reduced, the dead volume can be kept low and a high throughput can be achieved by an injector pump operated in this way.

 In the following, further embodiments of the injector, the sample separation device and the method will be described.

 According to one embodiment, the first mode of operation may also be referred to as an injector pump analysis pump decoupling mode in which the injector pump and analytical pump are fluidically decoupled from each other. In the first mode of operation, a sample separation of a fluidic sample, which has been previously grown in a sample separation volume of the injector, may be performed in the analytical path. In the first operating mode, alternatively or in addition to sample separation by means of the injector pump, a sample application may take place, for example if a sample separation volume other than the sample separation volume is provided which is fluidically coupled to the injector pump during the fluidic decoupling of the injector pump from the analytical pump.

According to an embodiment, the second mode of operation may also be referred to as an injector pump analysis pump coupling mode in which the injector pump and the analytical pump are fluidly coupled together. In the second mode of operation, purging of at least a portion of the fluidic path of the injector may be performed, particularly using the analytical pump to provide and deliver mobile phase used as purging fluid. In one embodiment, the injector may be configured to purge at least a portion of the injector pump, the sample collection volume, the needle, and / or the seat by the mobile phase delivered by the analytical pump when the switching device is switched to the second mode of operation (see, for example 5 ). This measure has advantages. On the one hand, one and the same mobile phase can be used for sample separation and rinsing. This makes a complicated adaptation of a separate rinsing liquid to given operating conditions of a sample separating device dispensable. On the other hand, by using the analytical pump for rinsing at least a part of the sample separation device, a separate rinsing pump can be omitted, which leads to a still compact sample separation device with comfortable functionality.

In one embodiment, the injector may further fluidly connect another needle that is insertable into a sample container for drawing additional fluid sample and insertable into a further seat for injecting the further fluid sample into the analytical path, the further seat, and another sample receiving volume with the further needle for temporarily receiving the retracted further fluidic sample, wherein the same injector pump is adapted for applying a sample drawing force for drawing the further fluidic sample from the sample container through the further needle into the further sample receiving volume. Thus, the one injector pump can be used to operate two needles together with associated sample volumes, resulting in a compact Design of the injector causes. The switching means may be configured to adjust respective fluidic coupling or decoupling conditions to selectively bring the injector pump into fluid communication with a respective one of the needles and at the same time to bring it out of fluid communication with the other of the needles.

According to one embodiment, the switching means may be configured to selectively switch either the further sample receiving volume, the further needle and the further seat into the analytical path and simultaneously the sample receiving volume, the needle and the seat, both in the first operating mode and in the second operating mode fluidically decoupling from the analytical path (see, for example, the first mode of operation of FIG 2 or the second operating mode according to 3 Alternatively, switch the sample receiving volume, needle and seat into the analytical path and simultaneously fluidly decouple the additional sample receiving volume, the additional needle and the further seat from the fluidic path (see for example the first mode of operation of FIG 4 and the second operating mode according to 5 ). By providing two needles in one injector, the two needles can be advantageously operated in a changeover mode. Accordingly, one needle at a time can be introduced into the fluidic separation path to inject fluid sample into it, while the other needle outside the analytical separation path can simultaneously perform another task, such as drawing a new fluidic sample. As a result, the dead time during operation of the sample separator can be reduced and the throughput can be increased. The two needles can be alternately switched between these two operating states by actuating the switching device alternately. This means that one needle can always be used for sample separation in the Main Pass, the other for sampling in the bypass.

According to one embodiment, the injector may be adapted to purge at least a portion of the further sample receiving volume, the further needle, and / or the further seat by means of a mobile phase delivered by the analytical pump, in particular when the switching device is switched to the second operating mode (see, for example 3 ). The provision of a separate flushing pump or the provision of a separate flushing fluid for flushing the other needle is thereby unnecessary.

 According to one embodiment, the switching means may be arranged to alternately switch the injector between different coupling states, each of which draws fluid sample into one of the sample receiving volumes by one of the needles and simultaneously injects the previously drawn in fluidic sample into the analytical path through the other of the needles becomes. In particular, the switching of the switching device between the first operating mode and the second operating mode can be repeated cyclically.

This allows a toggle operation to be set which allows for a continuous operation of the pump with only a short dead time.

 According to an alternative embodiment, the injector may be free from another needle, i. have only a single needle (and only a single seat and only a single sample volume). Thus, according to this alternative embodiment, only a single needle is provided in the injector. Also in this configuration, the injector pump can be used either inside or outside the flow path.

 According to one embodiment, the switching device may be formed as at least one fluidic valve, in particular as two fluidically coupled fluidic valves. Such fluidic valves can have two valve bodies which are movable relative to one another and which can be moved in translation or in rotation relative to one another in order to change between different switching states. One of the movable valve bodies may include fluidic ports that may be fluidly coupled to fluidic devices (eg, fluid conduits). The other of the movable valve bodies may have fluidic channels (for example in the form of grooves in the valve body) which may be fluidly connected to respective different ones of the fluidic ports. According to exemplary embodiments, the switching device may be formed as one or more such fluidic valves, which can be controlled by a control device between the described operating modes and switching states can be switched.

According to one embodiment, the injector may be free of a separate rinse pump. Even without a separate rinse pump, a rinse function can be performed by the already existing analytical pump. This allows a reliable protection against still existing in fluid lines historical solvent can be combined with a lightweight and compact injector. Also, in certain configurations, reliable protection against unwanted carry-over of sample may be achieved between different measurements, for example, when the needle is removed from the seat and flushed in the forward direction.

 According to one embodiment, the injector may be free of further injector pumps, i. only have exactly one injector pump. In other words, the injector pump described above may be the only injector pump of the injector, which can operate by the alternating operation of the switching device in Fehlrobuster manner also multiple needles.

In one embodiment, the injector pump may be configured to pre-compress a fluid sample already drawn into the sample receiving volume prior to injecting it into the analytical path in the first mode of operation fluidically decoupled from the analytical path (see, for example 2 ). When the fluidic sample is in the injector and is fluidically decoupled from the analytical separation path located at high pressure (eg 1200 bar), it is at a low pressure of, for example, the order of one atmosphere (for example 1 bar). Switching the switching device to inject the fluid sample in the sample receiving volume into the analytical separation path between the analytical pump and the sample separator would expose the fluidic sample and the fluidic components in the injector to high compression in one go, which would increase the risk of damage even involves destruction. By increasing the pressure in a corresponding part of the fluid lines of the injector and at least approximating the pressure in the analytical separation path by means of the injector pump, the magnitude of the pressure surge when switching the switching device can be reduced or even completely eliminated. This increases the life of the injector. Pre-compression by the injector pump may be performed by advancing a piston of the injector pump in a piston chamber.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the injector pump can-in a corresponding manner-be set up to pre-compress a fluid sample already drawn into the further sample receiving volume prior to injection into the analytical path in the first operating mode fluidically decoupled from the analytical path (see, for example 4 ).

 According to one embodiment, the injector pump may be configured to pressure-reduce the sample receiving volume and the needle in the first mode of operation fluidically de-coupled from the analytical path prior to drawing the fluidic sample into the sample receiving volume. In order to protect the fluidic components of the injector from an undesirably high pressure surge, the injector pump can also have an at least partial pressure adaptation between the high pressure still prevailing in the injector path (which has been established as the injector path in the high pressure path between Analytical pump and sample separator was introduced) and the atmospheric pressure to be on which may be located in a sample container fluidic sample, which can be sucked by means of the needle in the sample receiving volume. Such decompression before sampling in turn increases the life of the injector. Pre-decompression by means of the injector pump can be carried out by moving the piston of the injector pump in the piston chamber backwards.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the injector pump can-in a corresponding manner-be set up to subject the further sample receiving volume and the further needle to pressure reduction in the first operating mode that is fluidically decoupled from the analytical path before the fluidic sample is drawn into the further sample receiving volume (see, for example 4 ).

 According to one exemplary embodiment, the injector may be configured such that mobile phase used for sample separation in the analytical path between the analytical pump and the sample separator and flushing fluid for flushing at least part of a fluidic path of the injector originate from the same fluid reservoir and / or both the analytical pump can be funded. A complex and error-prone compilation of a suitable rinsing liquid is eliminated in that even only a single reservoir for the provision of the mobile phase, which is also used as rinsing liquid, is sufficient.

According to one embodiment, the switching device and the injector pump may be configured to repeat the following procedure a predetermined plurality of times (for example, 5-15 times): drawing a presettable amount of fluid into the sample receiving volume by means of the injector pump; Switching the switching means to fluidly decouple the injector pump from the sample receiving volume; Ejecting the drawn fluid, in particular into a waste pipe; and switching the switching means to fluidly couple the injector pump to the sample receiving volume. In this way, quantities of liquid in the injector which are greater than a maximum volume defined by the dimension of the injector pump (in particular its stroke volume) can also be processed. Here, by a cooperation between the injector pump and the switching device, a cycle of sucking a quantity of liquid into the sample receiving volume and the subsequent ejection thereof can be repeated several times until a desired Amount of liquid has been processed. According to the described "multi-draw" configuration, when a fluid volume to be aspirated exceeds a maximum intake volume of the injector pump, there is no longer a need to reciprocate the needle between a fluid reservoir and the seat several times to deliver individual portions of the fluid volume in each for the injector pump processable quantity to be successively transferred into the system. Instead, the needle may remain in the fluid reservoir while a desired large amount of fluid is received into the system as described above without moving the needle through the described procedure of valve shifting.

 According to one embodiment, the injector may have a backwash pump for backwashing the seat (and optionally also the further seat). In certain configurations, it may be desirable to rinse the needle-engaging seat, particularly in the backward direction (i.e., from a seat capillary through the seat and thence into the needle), with a rinse fluid and clean it of debris. If this is desirable or necessary for an application, a separate return pump can be provided for this purpose.

 According to one embodiment, the injector may comprise at least one one-way flow device fluidically coupled to the switching device for allowing fluid flow only in a predetermined flow direction and inhibiting fluid flow in a reverse direction inverse to the flow direction, the one-way flow device being fluidly coupled to the backwash pump and to the switching device is fluidically coupled. By providing one way flow means (or two one way flow means which may be associated with two fluidic valves of the switching means), the directed flow of flushing fluid for backwashing the seat (and / or the other seat) can be selectively adjusted. As a one-way flow device, a passive inlet valve can be used to allow flow only in one flow direction, but not in the opposite direction. As a result, the seat is flushable, and it can be simultaneously made even compressing / decompressing for pressure adjustment.

 According to one embodiment, the sample separation device may be configured as a microfluidic measuring device, liquid chromatography device or HPLC. The sample separation device can thus be designed in particular as an HPLC device (High Performance Liquid Chromatography or High Performance Liquid Chromatography), a life science device or an SFC device (Supercritical Fluid Chromatography). However, other applications are possible.

 According to one embodiment, the sample separation device may be pressure-resistant configured for operation at a pressure of up to about 100 bar, in particular for operation at a pressure of up to about 500 bar, more particularly for operation at a pressure of up to about 1000 bar.

 According to one embodiment, the sample separation device may comprise, as sample separation device, a separation column for separating different fractions of the injected fluid sample. Such a separation column can be filled with an adsorption medium, for example porous beads of silica gel or activated carbon. By chemical interaction with these porous beads, the fluidic sample can then be temporarily immobilized or adsorbed on the separation column. For example, by adjusting a gradient of a solvent composition, the individual fractions can then be individually detached or desorption from the adsorption medium and subsequently detected.

 According to an embodiment, the analytical pump for conveying the injected fluid sample may be formed together with a mobile phase. The mobile phase may be a solvent composition which may be constant in time or adjustably varied and which is mixed with the fluid sample after introduction of the fluid sample through the injection valve into the sample separation path. The mobile phase mixture and fluid sample may then be pumped through the chromatographic separation pathway by an analytical pump designed as a high pressure pump. Thus, the sample separation apparatus may include one or more pumps for conveying the injected fluid sample along with a mobile phase through at least a portion of the sample separation apparatus. For example, such a pump may be configured to pump the mobile phase through the system at a high pressure, for example, from a few hundred bars up to 1000 bars or more.

 According to one embodiment, the sample separator may include a sample detector for detecting separate sample components of the fluid sample. Such a sample detector may be based on a detection principle that detects electromagnetic radiation (for example in the UV range or in the visible range) originating from certain sample components of the fluid sample.

Alternatively or additionally, the meter may include a sample fractionator for fractionating the separated sample components. Such a fractionator can be the various For example, lead sample components into different fluid containers. The analyzed fluid sample can also be fed to a waste container.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

 Other objects and many of the attendant advantages of embodiments of the present invention will be readily appreciated and become better understood by reference to the following more particular description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Features that are substantially or functionally the same or similar are given the same reference numerals.

1 shows an HPLC meter according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

2 to 5 show an injector of a sample separator according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention in different coupling states.

6 to 9 show an injector of a sample separator according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention in different coupling states.

10 to 15 show an injector of a sample separator according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the invention in different coupling states.

16 to 19 show an injector of a sample separator according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention in different coupling states.

 The illustration in the drawing is schematic.

1 shows the basic structure of an HPLC system as an example of a sample separator 10 , as it can be used for example for liquid chromatography. An analytical pump 20 drives a mobile phase by a solvent container 25 provided and by means of a degasser 27 can be degassed by a separation device as sample separation device 30 (such as a chromatographic column) containing a stationary phase. A sample application unit, which also sample injector or injector only 40 is called, is between the pump 20 and the sample separator 30 arranged to by means of a fluid switch 90 (which also to the injector 40 can be expected) according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention to introduce a fluidic sample in the mobile phase. The stationary phase of the sample separator 30 is intended to separate sample components of the sample liquid. A detector 50 Detects separated sample components of the sample, and a fractionator 60 may be provided to dispense separated sample components of the sample liquid, for example in designated containers or a drain. A control device 70 controls the components of the sample separator 10 ,

While a fluid path between the pump 20 and the sample separator 30 is typically under high pressure, the sample liquid under normal pressure is first in a separate area from the liquid path, a so-called sample loop (as a sample receiving volume), the injector 40 entered, which then introduces the sample liquid in the high-pressure liquid path. When connecting the initially under normal pressure sample liquid in the sample loop in the high-pressure liquid path, the content of the sample loop abruptly (typically in the range of milliseconds) to the system pressure of the sample separation 10 brought. The fluid switch 90 is adapted to receive a fluidic sample from the injector 40 in the analytical path between the pump 20 and the sample separator 30 contribute.

Possible embodiments of the injector 40 will be further referred to in in 2 to 19 illustrated exemplary embodiments of the invention described in more detail. The fluid switch 90 is according to 2 to 19 through two separate fluid valves 208 . 210 realized that the respective injector 40 assigned.

2 to 5 show an injector 40 a sample separator 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention in different fluidic coupling states.

2 shows the injector 40 for injecting a fluidic sample into an analytical path of the sample separation device 10 between the analytical pump 20 for conveying the mobile phase and the fluidic sample on the one hand and the sample separation device 30 for separating the fluidic sample into fractions on the other.

The injector 40 has a needle 200 which is used to draw in the fluidic sample from a sample container 277 in the sample container 277 is insertable and for subsequent injection of the drawn fluidic sample into the analytical path between the pump 20 and sample separator in a seat 202 is insertable (in the figures is the needle 200 each in one state shown in the seat 202 is introduced). According to 2 there is the needle 200 So in the seat 202 from which they are brought out for sample collection (for example by means of a robot, not shown) and to the sample container 277 can be moved. There is also a sample volume 204 (also referred to as a sample loop) via a short fluid conduit in fluid communication with the needle 200 and serves to temporarily pick up the through the needle 200 drawn fluidic sample before the fluidic sample subsequently from the sample receiving volume 204 injected into the analytical separation path.

An injector pump constructed as a piston pump 206 (which may also be referred to as dosing pump or syringe pump) serves to apply a sample drawing force for drawing the fluid sample from the sample container 277 through the needle 200 in the sample receiving volume 204 if the needle 200 in the sample container 277 dips. For sampling, the piston of the injector moves 206 in its piston chamber backwards and thereby sucks the fluidic sample through the needle 200 in the sample receiving volume 204 one,

A switching device 208 . 210 , in the 1 schematically with reference numerals 90 is represented by a first fluid valve 208 and through a second fluid valve 210 formed, both by means of in 1 shown control device 70 can be switched according to a predetermined switching scheme. Each of the fluid valves 208 and 210 is formed of two valve bodies which are rotatable relative to each other. This can be done in 2 to 5 With 1 to 6 or with 1 to 9 designated ports of a respective static stator valve body, to the individual fluidic components of the sample separator 10 are connected, with respective groove-like channels 279 a respective rotatable rotor valve body are fluidly coupled and are fluidically decoupled from these to adjust different fluidic coupling states. 2 to 5 show four different valve positions. It should be noted that each of the fluid valves 208 and 210 can also be formed with more or less ports, as shown in the figures. For example, both the fluid valve 208 as well as the fluid valve 210 a portion of the ports (for example, each two of the ports) are omitted, be placed blind or used for additional functions not shown in the figures.

The switching device 208 . 210 Used for selective switching of the injector 40 optionally in an in 2 and 4 shown first operating mode (ie according to a first sub-mode accordingly 2 or according to a second sub-mode accordingly 4 can be realized) or in an in 3 and 5 shown second operating mode (ie also according to a first sub-mode accordingly 3 or according to a second sub-mode accordingly 5 can be realized). In the first mode of operation is the injector pump 206 from the analytical path between the analytical pump 20 and the sample separator 30 fluidically decoupled, whereas in the second mode of operation, the injector pump 206 into the analytical path between the analytical pump 20 and the sample separator 30 is introduced. In the first mode of operation, sample separation of already drawn up sample in the analytical path and drawing up of new sample by the injector pump 206 be performed. In the second operating mode, a part of the fluid lines and the fluidic components of the injector 40 be rinsed, as described in more detail below.

The injector 40 also has another needle 220 for drawing further fluidic sample into another sample container (for example also in the in 2 shown sample container 277 , or in another sample container, not shown) and for injecting the further fluidic sample in the analytical path between the analytical pump 20 and the sample separator 30 in another seat 222 is insertable. In addition, there is another sample volume 224 (For example, another sample loop, sample loop) in fluid communication with the other needle 220 provided for temporarily receiving the retracted further fluidic sample.

The injector pump 206 is the only injector pump of the injector 40 and therefore also serves for applying a sample drawing-in force for drawing in the further fluidic sample from the further sample container through the further needle 222 in the further sample volume 224 ,

The switching device 208 . 210 is configured to be in the first operating mode according to the sub-mode according to FIG 2 or in the second operating mode according to the sub-mode according to 3 the further sample volume 224 , the more needle 220 and the other seat 222 into the analytical path and simultaneously sample loading volume 204 , the needle 200 and the seat 202 to fluidically decouple from the analytical path. The switching device 208 . 210 is further formed, alternatively in the sub-mode of the first operating mode according to 4 or in the sub-mode of the second operating mode according to 5 the sample volume 204 , the needle 200 and the seat 202 switch into the analytical path and simultaneously the further sample volume 224 , the more needle 220 and the other seat 222 fluidically decoupling from the fluidic path.

The injector 40 is for flushing the injector pump 206 , the sample taking volume 204 , the needle 200 and the seat 202 by means of the analytical pump 20 funded mobile phase set up when the switching device 208 . 210 in the second operating mode according to the sub-mode accordingly 5 is switched. In other words, the flushing fluid is equal to the mobile phase used for sample separation and is derived from the 1 shown solvent container 25 , The injector 40 is also for purging the further sample collection volume 224 , the other needle 220 and the other seat 222 by means of the analytical pump 20 funded mobile phase set up when the switching device 208 . 210 in the second operating mode according to the sub-mode accordingly 3 is switched. Therefore, also here the flushing fluid is equal to the mobile phase used for sample separation and comes from the in 1 shown solvent container 25 , The purging can thus by using a driving force of the analytical pump 20 be accomplished. The injector 40 is thus preferably free of a separate rinsing pump (which, however, may be provided in other embodiments, see reference numerals 600 ) and can then be made very compact. Advantageously, the mobile phase used for rinsing, which is also used for sample separation. As a result, a separate Spülfluidreservoir is unnecessary.

The switching device 208 . 210 is set up, the injector 40 to switch alternately between different coupling states, in each case by means of one of the needles 200 . 220 fluidic sample into an associated one of the sample volumes 204 . 224 is pulled and parallel through the other of the needles 220 . 200 previously drawn fluidic sample is injected into the analytical path and separated there. Associated fluidic coupling states are in 2 and 4 shown, both of which are assigned to the first operating mode. According to 2 can by means of the injector pump 206 through the needle 200 fluidic sample into the sample receiving volume 204 be drawn while the further fluidic sample from the further sample receiving volume 224 can be separated in the analytical path. According to 4 can by means of the injector pump 206 through the other needle 220 further fluidic sample into the further sample receiving volume 224 be drawn while the fluidic sample from the sample receiving volume 204 can be separated in the analytical path.

The injector pump 206 is set up in the first operating mode, which is fluidically decoupled from the analytical path, before the fluid sample is drawn into the sample receiving volume 204 the still under pressure sample collection volume 204 and the needle 200 to undergo a pressure reduction. This can be done in the valve positions according to 2 by returning the piston of the injector pump 206 be performed in the piston chamber. The injector pump 206 is further arranged in the first operating mode fluidically decoupled from the analytical path into the sample receiving volume 204 vorzukomprimieren already drawn fluidic sample prior to injecting into the analytical path to a higher pressure. This can also be done in the valve positions according to 2 by advancing the piston of the injector pump 206 be performed in the piston chamber before in the sample receiving volume 204 mounted sample is separated into the analytical path for sample separation. Thus, the injector pump 206 also accomplish compressing / decompressing to reduce or avoid pressure surges when switching between a low pressure condition and a high pressure condition.

In a corresponding manner, the injector pump 206 be set in the fluidically decoupled from the analytical path first mode of operation before drawing the further fluidic sample in the further sample receiving volume 224 the still under pressure further sample collection volume 224 and the other needle 220 to undergo a pressure reduction. This can be done in the valve positions according to 4 by returning the piston of the injector pump 206 be performed in the piston chamber. The injector pump 206 is further arranged in the first operating mode, which is fluidically decoupled from the analytical path, into the further sample receiving volume 224 vorzukomprimieren already drawn fluidic sample prior to injecting into the analytical path to a higher pressure. This can also be done in the valve positions according to 4 by advancing the piston of the injector pump 206 be carried out in the piston chamber before in the further sample receiving volume 224 mounted sample is separated into the analytical path for sample separation.

The embodiment according to 2 to 5 therefore shows an injector pump which can be selectively coupled out or can be coupled into it from the analytical separation path 206 for operating a hydraulic two-needle arrangement from the needle 200 and the other needle 220 , This two-needle arrangement is operable to perform pre-compression or pre-decompression operations (particularly, pre-compression prior to the high pressure hydraulic path being decompressed after decoupling from the high pressure hydraulic path) of solvent and / or fluidic specimen in the needle 200 , the seat 202 and the sample receiving volume 204 formed fluidic portion or from the other needle 220 , the another seat 222 and the further sample receiving volume 224 make formed other fluidic section. The injector pump 206 acts with the two designed as high-pressure valves fluid valves 208 and 210 Together, as the stator / rotor valves with the in 2 to 5 shown configuration of ports 1 to 6 respectively. 1 to 9 and channels 279 are formed. The injector pump 206 can be flushed with fresh, current solvent from the flow path, that of the analytical pump 20 is encouraged. If from the analytical pump 20 degassed solvent is used for purging throughout the flow path (see degasser 27 in 1 ), even when rinsing, there are no problems with gas bubbles in the solvent. A method change (especially a change of a chromatographic separation method) can be done without replacing the solvent to rinse the injector pump 206 be carried out as always fresh solvent from the analytical pump 20 can be funded.

2 shows the injector 40 in the first operating mode. The analytical pump 20 Pumps fluid through the analytical flow path, more precisely through the first fluid valve 208 , the second fluid valve 210 , the more sample volume 224 , the more needle 220 , the other seat 222 , again the second fluid valve 210 in the direction of the sample separator 30 , The injector pump 206 is currently decoupled from the analytical flow path and in fluid communication with the first fluid valve 208 , the second fluid valve 210 , the sample volume 204 , the needle 200 and the seat 202 , In this operating state, the injector pump 206 by advancing its piston, precompressing its associated fluidic pathway prior to entering the analytical flowpath, decompressing its associated fluidic pathway after leaving the analytical flowpath, and sampling from the sample reservoir 277 carry out. For sampling, the needle 200 temporarily out of the seat 202 moved out and into the sample container 277 be dipped, for example by means of a not shown robotic arm. Fluidic sample previously in the additional sample volume 224 has been recorded, can now in the sample separator 30 separated into their fractions.

3 shows the injector 40 in the second operating state, that is to say with the injector pump 206 in the analytical flow path and thus in fluidic coupling with the analytical pump 20 connected. The transition between 2 and 3 is by switching the first fluid valve 208 accomplished, whereas the second fluid valve 210 was not switched. The analytical pump 20 is now through the first fluid valve 208 fluidic with the injector pump 206 coupled. In the further course of the flow is the injector pump 206 again via the first fluid valve 208 , the second fluid valve 210 , the more sample volume 224 , the more needle 220 , the other seat 222 and again the second fluid valve 210 with the sample separator 30 coupled. The valve position shown in accordance with 3 is suitable for rinsing the of the analytical pump 20 achieved to achieve flow path with mobile phase. At the same time, the fluidic path uncoupled from the analytical flow path is sample collection volume 204 , Needle 200 and seat 202 blocked due to the current valve positions.

4 shows after another switching of the two fluid valves 208 . 210 , starting from the valve positions according to 3 , the injector 40 again in the first operating mode, ie in a state in which the injector pump 206 from fluid communication with the analytical pump 20 disconnected. The analytical pump 20 is now over the first fluid valve 208 and the second fluid valve 210 in fluid communication with the sample receiving volume 204 , the needle 200 and the seat 202 , and again via the second fluid valve 210 in fluid communication with the sample separator 30 connected. In this operating state, the injector pump 206 by advancing its piston, pre-compress the fluidic path associated with it prior to entry into the analytical flow path, decompress the associated fluidic path after it has been removed from the analytical flow path, and sample draw from a sample container. For sampling, the other needle 220 temporarily from the other seat 222 moved out and immersed in the sample container, for example by means of a robot arm, not shown. Fluidic sample previously in the sample receiving volume 204 has been recorded, can now in the sample separator 30 separated into their fractions.

5 shows the injector 40 again in the second operating state, that is to say with the injector pump 206 in the analytical flow path and thus in fluidic coupling with the analytical pump 20 connected. The transition between 4 and 5 is by switching only the first fluid valve 208 but not the second fluid valve 210 , has been accomplished. The analytical pump 20 is now through the first fluid valve 208 fluidic with the injector pump 206 coupled. In the further course of the flow is the injector pump 206 again via the first fluid valve 208 , the second fluid valve 210 , the sample volume 204 , the needle 200 , the seat 202 and again the second fluid valve 210 with the sample separator 30 coupled. The valve position shown in accordance with 5 is suitable for a rinse of the analytical pump 20 achieved to achieve flow path with mobile phase. At the same time, the fluidic path uncoupled from the analytical flow path is from the further sample receiving volume 224 , the other needle 220 and the other seat 222 blocked due to the current valve positions. Based on the valve positions according to 5 can the injector 40 again in the valve positions according to 2 be transferred back, and the switching sequence described are cyclically repeated.

In addition, it is possible to use the capillary from the first fluid valve 208 , Port 5 to the second fluid valve 210 , Port 9 to wash. This can be accomplished, for example, by drawing a suitable amount (of, for example, 100 μl) of rinse fluid into the rinse positions according to 3 and 5 the injector pump 206 respectively. An ejection can (according to 2 and 4 with the needle raised) into the appropriate loop capillary, which is in the bypass state, above the needle wash position.

If necessary, additional fluidic functions of the injector 40 can be realized, for example, the second fluid valve 210 instead of with 9 Ports are also provided with 11 ports. The injector 40 according to 2 to 5 has the advantage of rinsing by means of the analytical pump 20 and without additional rinsing pump. The in 2 to 5 shown injector 40 has the further advantage that the shown hydraulic dual-needle principle brings a significant reduction of the hardware-technical effort with it. Because the injector pump 206 If necessary, can be switched out of the flow path, the dead volume can be kept low and also possible thermal equilibrium times can be kept low. The latter designates a characteristic period of time required to allow adequate area precision in small injection volume areas. Furthermore, the injector pump 206 be rinsed in the flow path, for which currently used solvent can be used, so that the rinsing is method-independent or method-invariant (these methods in particular chromatographic separation methods denote). Additional modules for providing the injector function are at the injector 40 according to 2 to 5 not necessary.

6 to 9 shows an injector 40 a sample separator 10 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention in different coupling states.

In contrast to 2 to 5 has the injector 40 according to 6 to 9 as a second fluid valve 210 one with ports 1 to 11 instead of with ports 1 to 9 ie with two additional ports. The injector 40 also has a backwash pump 600 for backwashing the seat 202 or the other seat 222 on. The injector 40 also has two, with the switching device 208 . 210 fluidically coupled one-way flow devices 602 . 604 in each case for permitting a respective fluid flow in a respectively predetermined flow direction and for preventing fluid flow in a reverse direction inverse to the flow direction. A respective connection of a respective one of the one-way flow devices 602 . 604 is with the backwash pump 600 fluidly coupled, and a respective other port of a respective one of the one-way flow devices 602 . 604 is with a respective port ( 4 respectively. 8th ) of the second fluid valve 210 the switching device 208 . 210 fluidly coupled.

Essentially, the operating state corresponds to 6 according to that 2 , the operating condition according to 7 according to that 3 , the operating condition according to 8th according to that 4 and the operating state according to 9 according to that 5 ,

In addition to the functionality according to 2 to 5 allows the injector 40 according to 6 to 9 an additional backwash function of the seat 202 or the other seat 222 , This is done by the appropriately extended further fluid valve 210 as well as the two disposable flow devices 602 . 604 and the backwash pump 600 allows. The two reflux facilities 602 . 604 are designed as passive inlet valves in the embodiment shown. At the injector 40 according to 5 to 9 is it possible to have both seats 202 . 222 to rinse during sample preparation. According to 6 is the seat 202 flushable. According to 8th is the other seat 222 flushable.

The embodiment according to 6 to 9 is optionally combinable with the "multi-draw" function described in more detail below 10 to 15 ,

10 to 15 shows an injector 40 a sample separator 10 according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the invention in different coupling states.

Essentially, the operating state corresponds to 10 according to that 4 , the operating condition according to 12 (where the needle 200 in the seat 202 to rest) according to that 5 , the operating condition according to 13 according to that 2 and the operating state according to 15 (where the other needle 220 in the further seat 222 to rest) according to that 3 , In addition, an operating state is according to 11 which corresponds to ejecting fluid in a multi-draw configuration by switching only the first one fluid valve 208 starting from 10 adjustable. Furthermore, another operating state is according to 14 which also corresponds to ejecting fluid in a multi-draw configuration by switching only the first fluid valve 208 starting from 13 adjustable.

• – Einziehen einer vorgebbaren Menge von Fluid in das Probenaufnahmevolumen 204 mittels der Injektorpumpe 206 (siehe 13);
• – Schalten der Schalteinrichtung 208, 210, um die Injektorpumpe 206 von dem Probenaufnahmevolumen 204 fluidisch zu entkoppeln (siehe 14);
• – Ejizieren des eingezogenen Fluids, insbesondere in eine Waste-Leitung 1000 (siehe 14);
• – Schalten der Schalteinrichtung 208, 210, um die Injektorpumpe 206 mit dem Probenaufnahmevolumen 204 wieder fluidisch zu koppeln, und Wiederholen der Prozedur ab dem Einziehen eine gewünschte Anzahl von Malen. Entsprechend können bei der Dual-Nadel-Anordnung gemäß 10 bis 15 die Schalteinrichtung 208, 210 und die Injektorpumpe 206 auch zum Durchführen eines „Multi-Draw“-Prozesses eingerichtet sein, der folgende Prozedur eine vorgebbare Mehrzahl von Malen wiederholt:
• – Einziehen einer vorgebbaren Menge von Fluid in das weitere Probenaufnahmevolumen 224 mittels der Injektorpumpe 206 (siehe 10);
• – Schalten der Schalteinrichtung 208, 210, um die Injektorpumpe 206 von dem weiteren Probenaufnahmevolumen 224 fluidisch zu entkoppeln (siehe 11);
• – Ejizieren des eingezogenen Fluids, insbesondere in Waste-Leitung 1000 (siehe 11);
• – Schalten der Schalteinrichtung 208, 210, um die Injektorpumpe 206 mit dem weiteren Probenaufnahmevolumen 224 wieder fluidisch zu koppeln, und Wiederholen der Prozedur ab dem Einziehen eine gewünschte Anzahl von Malen.

The switching device 208 . 210 and the injector pump 206 are set up to perform a "multi-draw" process, repeating the following procedure a predetermined number of times:

• - Injecting a predetermined amount of fluid in the sample receiving volume 204 by means of the injector pump 206 (please refer 13 );
• - Switching the switching device 208 . 210 to the injector pump 206 from the sample receiving volume 204 fluidic decoupling (see 14 );
• - Ejizieren the recovered fluid, especially in a waste-line 1000 (please refer 14 );
• - Switching the switching device 208 . 210 to the injector pump 206 with the sample receiving volume 204 again fluidly, and repeating the procedure from drawing a desired number of times. Accordingly, in the dual-needle arrangement according to 10 to 15 the switching device 208 . 210 and the injector pump 206 also be arranged to perform a "multi-draw" process, the following procedure repeats a prescribable plurality of times:
• - Injecting a predetermined amount of fluid in the further sample receiving volume 224 by means of the injector pump 206 (please refer 10 );
• - Switching the switching device 208 . 210 to the injector pump 206 from the further sample receiving volume 224 fluidic decoupling (see 11 );
• - Ejizieren the recovered fluid, especially in waste-line 1000 (please refer 11 );
• - Switching the switching device 208 . 210 to the injector pump 206 with the further sample receiving volume 224 again fluidly, and repeating the procedure from drawing a desired number of times.

The injector 40 according to 11 to 15 Thus, if necessary, can draw a large amount of liquid, and is no longer by a maximum intake of the injector 206 limited. Instead, a respective amount of fluid in portions may each enter the sample receiving volume 204 or in the further sample receiving volume 224 be sucked and subsequently ejiziert. This is possible without the need to implement further fluidic components, resulting in a space-saving configuration.

It should also be noted that the illustrated "multi-draw" process can alternatively be performed in a 1-needle system, and not just in a 2-needle system used in 10 is shown.

16 to 19 shows an injector 40 a sample separator 10 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention in different coupling states.

The embodiment according to 16 to 19 differs from the embodiment according to 2 to 5 in particular, that according to 16 to 19 just a needle 200 , only one seat 202 and only one sample volume 204 is provided. Furthermore, the second fluid valve 210 according to 16 to 19 simplified, ie with 6 ports 1 to 6 instead of nine ports 1 to 9 ,

Also according to 16 to 19 can the injector pump 206 optionally be switched within or outside the analytical flow path, by providing two fluid valves 208 . 210 is effected. The injector pump 206 In turn, it can be purged using current solvent when it is momentarily within the flow path. Optionally, the injector pump 206 also by means of an additional flushing pump 600 be rinsed with a premixed solvent. Waste connections are denoted by reference numerals 1600 designated.

According to 16 are the sample volume 204 , the needle 200 and the seat 202 as well as the injector pump 206 in the flow path, ie, in fluid communication with the analytical pump 20 ,

According to 17 is the injector 40 in a bypass path, and the injector pump 206 can retract fluidic sample (blocked at a position).

According to 18 is the injector 40 continue in the bypass path, and the injector pump 206 is also outside the analytical flow path. The previously drawn up fluidic sample is now in the sample receiving volume 204 , The injector pump 206 can by means of the optional flushing pump 600 be rinsed. By switching the second fluid valve 210 For example, the received fluidic sample can be injected into the analytical separation path.

According to 19 is the injector 40 switched into the analytical flow path, so that the previously drawn up fluidic sample from the sample receiving volume 204 into the analytical separation path between the analytical pump 20 and the sample separator 30 is injected. The injector pump 206 can by means of the optional flushing pump 600 be rinsed.

It should be noted that the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements and that the "on" does not exclude a plurality. Also, elements described in connection with different embodiments may be combined. It should also be noted that reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 0309596 B1 [0002]
• US 4939943 [0003]
• US 3916692 [0003]
• US 3376694 [0003]

Claims (20)

Injector ( 40 ) for injecting a fluidic sample into an analytical path of a sample separation device ( 10 ) between an analytical pump ( 20 ) for conveying mobile phase and a sample separation device ( 30 ) for separating the fluidic sample into fractions, wherein the injector ( 40 ): a needle ( 200 ) used to draw the fluidic sample into a sample container ( 277 ) is insertable and that for injecting the fluidic sample into the analytical path into a seat ( 202 ) is insertable; the seat ( 202 ); a sample volume ( 204 ) in fluid communication with the needle ( 200 ) for temporarily receiving the retracted fluidic sample; an injector pump ( 206 ) for applying a Probeneinziehkraft for drawing the fluid sample from the sample container ( 277 ) through the needle ( 200 ) into the sample receiving volume ( 204 ) is set up; a switching device ( 208 . 210 ) for selectively switching the injector ( 40 ) into a first operating mode in which the injector pump ( 206 ) from the analytical path between the analytical pump ( 20 ) and the sample separation device ( 30 ) is fluidically decoupled, and in a second operating mode in which the injector pump ( 206 ) into the analytical path between the analytical pump ( 20 ) and the sample separation device ( 30 ) is established. Injector ( 40 ) according to claim 1, arranged for flushing at least a portion of the injector pump ( 206 ), the sample intake volume ( 204 ), the needle ( 200 ) and / or the seat ( 202 ) by means of the analytical pump ( 20 ) promoted mobile phase when the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) is switched to the second operating mode. Injector ( 40 ) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a further needle ( 220 ), which is insertable for drawing in further fluidic sample into a sample container and for injecting the further fluidic sample into the analytical path into a further seat ( 222 ), the other seat ( 222 ) and another sample volume ( 224 ) in fluid communication with the further needle ( 220 ) for temporarily receiving the retracted further fluidic sample; the injector pump ( 206 ) for applying a Probeneinziehkraft for drawing the further fluidic sample from the sample container through the further needle ( 222 ) into the further sample receiving volume ( 224 ) is set up. Injector ( 40 ) according to claim 3, wherein the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) is configured, both in the first operating mode and in the second operating mode, each optionally the further sample receiving volume ( 224 ), the other needle ( 220 ) and the other seat ( 222 ) in the analytical path and simultaneously the sample volume ( 204 ), the needle ( 200 ) and the seat ( 202 ) to fluidically decouple from the analytical path; or the sample volume ( 204 ), the needle ( 200 ) and the seat ( 202 ) in the analytical path and simultaneously the further sample volume ( 224 ), the other needle ( 220 ) and the other seat ( 222 ) fluidically decouple from the fluidic path. Injector ( 40 ) according to claim 3 or 4, arranged for rinsing at least a portion of the further sample receiving volume ( 224 ), the other needle ( 220 ) and / or the other seat ( 222 ) by means of the analytical pump ( 20 ) promoted mobile phase, in particular when the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) is switched to the second operating mode. Injector ( 40 ) according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the switching device ( 208 . 210 ), the injector ( 40 ) alternately switch between different coupling states, in each case by means of one of the needles ( 200 . 220 ) fluidic sample into an associated one of the sample volumes ( 204 . 224 ) and simultaneously through the other of the needles ( 220 . 200 ) previously injected fluidic sample is injected into the analytical path. Injector ( 40 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the injector ( 40 ) from another needle ( 220 ) free is. Injector ( 40 ) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) is designed as at least one fluidic valve, in particular as two fluidically coupled fluidic valves. Injector ( 40 ) according to one of claims 1 to 8, which is provided by a separate rinsing pump ( 600 ) free is. Injector ( 40 ) according to one of claims 1 to 9, which is free of further injector pumps. Injector ( 40 ) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the injector pump ( 40 ) in which, in the first operating mode, a state fluidically decoupled from the analytical path into the sample receiving volume ( 204 ) pre-compresses already drawn fluidic sample prior to injecting into the analytical pathway. Injector ( 40 ) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the injector pump ( 206 ) in which in the first operating mode of the analytical path fluidically decoupled state before the Drawing the fluidic sample into the sample receiving volume ( 204 ) the sample volume ( 204 ) and the needle ( 200 ) to undergo a pressure reduction. Injector ( 40 ) according to one of claims 1 to 12, arranged such that for sample separation in the analytical path between the analytical pump ( 20 ) and the sample separation device ( 30 ) used on the one hand and rinsing fluid for rinsing at least a portion of a fluidic path of the injector ( 40 ) on the other hand from the same fluid reservoir ( 25 ) and / or both by means of the analytical pump ( 20 ) are eligible. Injector ( 40 ) according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) and the injector pump ( 206 ) are arranged to repeat the following procedure a predefinable plurality of times: drawing a predeterminable amount of fluid into the sample receiving volume ( 204 ) by means of the injector pump ( 206 ); Switching the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) to the injector pump ( 206 ) from the sample receiving volume ( 204 ) fluidically decouple; Ejecting the drawn-in fluid, in particular into a waste-water line ( 1000 ); Switching the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) to the injector pump ( 206 ) with the sample receiving volume ( 204 ) again fluidly to couple. Injector ( 40 ) according to one of claims 1 to 8 or 10 to 14, comprising a backwash pump ( 600 ) for backwashing the seat ( 202 ). Injector ( 40 ) according to claim 15, comprising at least one with the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) fluidically coupled one-way flow device ( 602 . 604 ) for allowing fluid flow in a predetermined flow direction and for inhibiting fluid flow in a reverse direction inverse to the flow direction, the one-way flow device ( 602 . 604 ) with the backwash pump ( 600 ) can be coupled or coupled fluidically and with the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) is fluidically coupled or coupled. Sample Separator ( 10 ) for separating a mobile phase fluidic sample into fractions, wherein the sample separation device ( 10 ) comprises: an analytical pump ( 20 ) to promote the mobile phase; an injector ( 40 ) according to one of claims 1 to 16 for injecting the fluidic sample into an analytical path between the analytical pump ( 20 ) and a sample separator ( 30 ); the sample separator ( 30 ) for separating in the from the analytical pump ( 20 ) supported mobile phase fluid fractions in fractions. Sample Separator ( 10 ) according to claim 17, further comprising at least one of the following features: the sample separation device ( 30 ) is designed as a chromatographic separation device, in particular as a chromatography separation column; the sample separator ( 10 ) is configured to analyze at least one physical, chemical and / or biological parameter of at least one fraction of the fluidic sample; the sample separator ( 10 ) has at least one of the group consisting of a chemical, biological and / or pharmaceutical analysis apparatus, a liquid chromatography apparatus and an HPLC apparatus; the analytical pump ( 20 ) is set up to drive the mobile phase at a high pressure; the analytical pump ( 20 ) is arranged to drive the mobile phase at a pressure of at least 100 bar, in particular of at least 500 bar, more particularly of at least 1000 bar; the sample separator ( 10 ) is configured as a microfluidic device; the sample separator ( 10 ) is configured as a nanofluidic device; the sample separator ( 10 ) has a detector ( 50 ) for detecting the separated fractions; the sample separator ( 10 ) has a waste container ( 60 ) for collecting the separated fractions and the mobile phase; the sample separator ( 10 ) has a sample fractionator for fractionating the separated fractions. Method for operating an injector ( 40 ) according to one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the method comprises: switching the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) in the first mode of operation and drawing the fluidic sample into the sample receiving volume ( 204 ); Switching the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) into the second mode of operation, and injecting the retracted fluidic sample from the sample receiving volume (FIG. 204 ) into the analytical path between the analytical pump ( 20 ) and the sample separation device ( 30 ). A method according to claim 19, wherein the switching of the switching device ( 208 . 210 ) is cyclically repeated between the first operating mode and the second operating mode.

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