DE102015117428A1 - Fluid valve for uninterrupted branching of fluidic sample fluid path in another fluid path - Google Patents

Abstract

A fluid valve (90) for a sample separator (10) having a preparatory path (80) for separating a fluidic sample and an analytical path (85) branching from the preparative path (80) for analyzing a portion diverted from the preparative path (80) the fluidic sample, wherein the fluid valve (90) has two first fluid ports (200, 202) for connection to the preparative path (80), two second fluid ports (204, 206) for connection to the analytical path (85), and a plurality of fluid ports to the fluid ports (200, 202, 204, 200) movable fluid receiving channels (208) for temporarily receiving the branched portion of the fluidic sample upon transferring the preparative path (80) through a respective one of the fluid receiving channels (208) into the analytical path (85) wherein the fluid ports (200, 202, 204, 206) and fluid receiving passages (208) are disposed relative to one another and movable to provide an uninterrupted flow s of the branched portion of the fluidic sample from the preparative path (80) through the fluid valve (90) into the analytical path (85).

Description

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

 The present invention relates to a fluid valve, a sample separation apparatus, and a method for branching a portion of a fluid sample prepared by a sample separator from a preparative path for separating the fluid sample into an analytical path for analyzing the separated fluid sample by means of a fluid valve.

In an HPLC, a liquid (mobile phase) is typically run at a very accurately controlled flow rate (for example in the range of microliters to milliliters per minute) and at a high pressure (typically 20 bar to 1000 bar and beyond, currently up to 2000 bar ), in which the compressibility of the liquid can be sensed and measured, is moved through a stationary phase (for example a chromatographic separation column) in order to separate individual components of a sample liquid introduced into the mobile phase. In a detection device, for example a flow cell, of a liquid chromatography device, the separate fractions of the sample are then detected. Such an HPLC system is for example from EP 0,309,596 B1 by the same Applicant, Agilent Technologies, Inc.

 However, chromatographic separations are not used exclusively for analytical purposes but also for preparative purposes (among others in the laboratory and in the chemical industry) in order to purify a product (for example proteins) or to separate very similar substances (for example enantiomers) , In preparative chromatography, a fluidic sample may be separated along a preparative path, and the separated fractions may be taken up into appropriate receptacles in a fractionator. In order to monitor this process or to control the fractionator, a small proportion of the separated fluidic sample can be transferred into an analytical path and here the separation can be controlled by means of a detector. This branching of a portion of the separated fluidic sample from a preparative path into an analytical path still poses difficulties because this branching can interfere with continuous operation.

 High demands are placed on preparative chromatography, in particular with regard to the functioning of fluid valves used for branching. Fluid valves that may be used at different locations on a sample separator may include a stator with ports (and optionally channels) and a rotor with channels, which ports may be statically connected to fluid lines and the channels may be rotated with the rotor so in different switching positions to couple different of the ports by means of a respective channel fluidly and to decouple other of the ports fluidly.

Conventional fluid valves are for example in US 3,567,389 . US 3,885,439 . US 6,890,489 . US 7,575,723 and US 9,032,819 disclosed.

EPIPHANY

 It is an object of the invention to efficiently design a transfer of a fluidic sample from a preparative path into an analytical path of a sample separation device. The object is achieved by means of the independent claims. Further embodiments are mentioned in the dependent claims.

 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a fluid valve for a sample separator having a preparatory path for separating a fluidic sample and having an analytical path branching from the preparative path for analyzing a portion of the fluidic sample branched from the preparative path, wherein the fluid valve is at least two first fluid ports for connection to the preparative path, at least two second fluid ports for connection to the analytical path, and a plurality (ie at least two, but preferably at least 10 and more particularly at least 50) of fluid receiving channels movable relative to the fluid ports for temporarily receiving the fluid branched portion of the fluidic sample when transferring from the preparative path through a respective one of the fluid receiving channels in the analytical path, wherein the fluid ports and the fluid receiving channels relative are arranged to each other and movable to effect an uninterrupted flow of the branched portion of the fluidic sample from the preparative path through the fluid valve in the analytical path.

 According to another exemplary embodiment, there is provided a sample separator for separating a fluidic sample, the sample separator comprising a preparative path configured to separate the fluid sample, an analytical path established, a portion of the fluidic sample branched from the preparative path and to provide a fluid valve having the above-described features for transferring the branched portion of the fluidic sample from the preparative path into the analytical path.

According to yet another exemplary embodiment, a method is provided for branching a portion of a fluid sample prepared by a sample separator from a preparative path for separating the fluid sample into an analytical path for analyzing the separated fluid sample by means of a fluid valve first fluid ports of the fluid valve are connected to the preparative path, two second fluid ports of the fluid valve are connected to the analytical path, and a plurality of fluid receiving channels of the fluid valve for temporarily receiving the branched portion of the fluidic sample relative to the fluid ports upon transfer from the preparative path a respective one of the fluid receiving channels are moved into the analytical path, wherein the fluid ports and the fluid receiving channels are arranged and moved relative to each other to interrupt one smooth flow of the branched portion of the fluidic sample from the preparative path through the fluid valve into the analytical path.

 According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a continuous and undisturbed operation of a particular preparative sample separation device can be ensured by a fluid valve between a first, in particular preparative path and a second, in particular analytical, path of the sample separation device being configured to divert a continuous flow of one Ensures part of the fluidic sample in the second, in particular analytical path. This means that with such a fluid valve, the flow of the fluidic sample to be analyzed in particular in the second path, in particular, is never interrupted. Thus, for example, a fractionator in the preparative path can be reliably controlled based on the detection result in the analytical path. Such a fluid valve can be operated wear and without excessive noise, especially when it is rotated continuously. By continuously supplying the second, in particular analytical, path with a certain amount of fluidic sample, a good time resolution with regard to the analysis of the separated fluidic sample is ensured, without the continuous controllability of the separation result being interrupted again and again by an interruption of the fluid connection which can be avoided according to the invention.

 In the following, embodiments of the fluid valve, the sample separation device and the method will be described.

 According to one embodiment, the fluid ports and the fluid receiving channels may be configured to effect uninterrupted flow of the fluidic sample along the preparative path, regardless of the fluid branching. Thus, the design and interaction of the fluid ports and the fluid receiving passages of the fluid valve can be configured to not only maintain flow throughout the analytical path, but also to maintain flow along the preparative path throughout. As a result, preparative sample separation (in particular preparative liquid chromatography) can be operated completely continuously. By also maintaining complete continuity in the fluid transport in the preparative path, the wear and noise of the fluid valve are further reduced and throughput increased without compromising end-to-end monitoring.

 According to one embodiment, the fluid ports and the fluid receiving channels may be configured to maintain the flow of the fluidic sample in the preparative path and the flow of the branched portion of the fluidic sample in the analytical path without interruption in each active operating state of the fluid valve. According to this embodiment, the fluid valve can be put in any position without ever running the risk of interrupting a continuous flow into the analytical path.

According to one embodiment, the fluid valve may be a rotationally operating fluid valve, ie be switchable by a rotational movement. Such a fluid valve may include a rotor member (ie, a rotatable valve body) and a stator member (ie, a stationary valve body), wherein the fluid ports may be disposed on the stator member and the fluid receiving channels on the rotor member. By rotating the rotor element relative to the stator element, different fluid coupling states or fluid coupling states can be set. In a fluid coupling state, different fluid ports may be fluidly coupled through one or more fluid receiving channels corresponding to a current valve position. In a fluid coupling state, different fluid ports are not bridged by any fluid receiving passage corresponding to another valve position and therefore fluidly decoupled. It has been shown that with a rotor valve (see 2 . 3 ) the requirements for an uninterrupted fluid transport into a preparative path can be fulfilled particularly advantageously and simply. Alternatively, however, the fluid valve can also be designed as a valve operable by a longitudinal movement.

According to one embodiment, the fluid ports ports and grooves on a valve body (in particular on a stator) and the fluid receiving channels grooves on another valve body (in particular on a rotor element), wherein the grooves of the fluid receiving channels depending on an operating condition of the fluid valve with associated ports and Grooves of the fluid connections can be fluidly coupled or fluidly decoupled from the associated ports and grooves of the fluid connections. The ports of a valve body of the fluid valve can be fluidly coupled by means of fluid lines to be connected fluidic components. The grooves may be formed in a surface of a respective valve body and serve to bypass corresponding ports or other grooves in a respective valve state.

 According to one exemplary embodiment, the two first fluid connections can be tangentially offset from one another and / or the two second fluid connections can be tangentially offset from each other. The tangential direction can be defined in the case of a fluid valve designed as a rotor valve by the motion vector of a certain point on the circumference of a rotating valve body. In the tangential direction, the respective fluid connections can thus be spaced from one another and preferably arranged statically.

 According to one exemplary embodiment, the two first fluid connections may be designed as connections running radially from a common initial radius to a common end radius of a circular disk-shaped valve body and / or the two second fluid connections may be formed as connections of the circular disk-shaped valve body running radially from a common initial radius to a common end radius be. Such a configuration has the advantage that during rotation of the fluid receiving channels, these successively sweep over the two first fluid ports and / or the two second fluid ports and therefore couple only temporarily thereto. As a result, the fluidic transfer from the preparative path to the analytical path can be maintained without interruption. At the same time, the dead volume of the fluid connections and of their fluidic coupling can be kept low.

 According to one embodiment, the fluid receiving channels may be formed or grouped as a plurality of fluid receiving channel groups arranged tangentially offset from each other. Again referring to the above definition of the tangential direction, tangentially offsetting the fluid receiving channels of each fluid receiving channel group is a suitable instrument to ensure continuous and simultaneously quasi-continuous flow into the analytical path through a respective fluid receiving channel and simultaneously along the preparative path through a respective other fluid receiving channel. In particular, it has proved to be advantageous for this purpose to form at least a portion of the fluid receiving channel groups of a plurality of extending in the tangential direction fluid receiving channels which overlap each other in the tangential direction and are spaced apart in the radial direction. The overlapping configuration of the fluid receiving channels in the tangential direction can advantageously be configured in combination with the arrangement of the fluid connections such that at any time at least one of the fluid receiving channels bridges or fluidly couples the two first fluid ports and / or at least one other of the fluid intake ports the two second fluid ports bridged or fluidly coupled. The radial spacing of the fluid receiving channels of a respective group can at the same time ensure that only one or a part of the fluidic channels of a group accomplishes said bridging function, so that overdetermination is avoided.

In one embodiment, the two first fluid ports in each operating state of the fluid valve (ie, in particular, during a full 360 ° rotation of a rotary fluid valve) may be fluidly coupled by at least one of the fluid receiving channels and / or the two second fluid ports may be in each operating state of the fluid valve (FIG. ie in particular during a full 360 ° rotation of a rotary fluid valve) by means of at least one respective fluid receiving channels be coupled. This configuration is for example in 2 realized.

According to this embodiment, the first fluid connections are provided separately from one another and are fluidly connected to one another only by a fluid receiving channel which changes in each case by rotation of the fluid valve, preferably however continuously (so that in each case one fluid receiving channel is detached without interruption by a subsequent other fluid receiving channel). In a respective transitional period, the first two fluid ports may be temporarily interconnected by two or more fluid receiving passages. As a result of this temporary fluidic coupling through at least one respectively changing fluid receiving channel, the flow within the preparative path is maintained throughout. Furthermore, it is also possible to continuously divert fluidic fluid branches through the fluid intake channel which just traverses the two first fluid connections Sample from the preparative path into the analytical path.

 In a corresponding manner, the two second fluid ports may be provided separately from each other and fluidly connected to each other only by a fluid receiving channel which varies by rotation of the fluid valve, but preferably continuously (so that one fluid receiving channel is detached without interruption by a subsequent other fluid receiving channel). In a respective transitional period, the two second fluid ports can be temporarily interconnected by two fluid receiving channels. As a result of this intermittent fluidic coupling through at least one respectively changing fluid receiving channel, the flow into the analytical path is consistently maintained by moving fluid sample received from this fluid receiving channel out of the fluid valve and into the analytical path beforehand by prior coupling to the two first fluid connections is transported.

According to an alternative embodiment, the two first fluid ports may be fluidly coupled to one another directly independent of the fluid receiving channels, and / or the second fluid ports may be fluidly coupled to one another directly independent of the fluid receiving channels. Such an embodiment is, for example, in 3 shown. The first two fluid ports, according to this embodiment, do not require a fluid receiving passage to maintain uninterrupted flow in the preparative path without interruption. Instead, the two first fluid ports according to this embodiment are inseparably connected to each other. The temporary fluidic coupling of these first fluid ports to a respective changing fluid receiving channel (or more fluid receiving channels) according to this embodiment is only for the purpose of continuously transferring a portion of the fluidic sample from the preparative path into the analytical path. The same applies to the second fluid connections, which according to this embodiment also do not require a fluid receiving channel in order to maintain their continuous connection to the analytical path without interruption. The second fluid ports accept the fluidic sample from the fluid receiving channel (s) previously located in communication with the first fluid ports and further transport this fluidic sample into the analytical path.

Still referring to the embodiment described above, the fluid valve may be further configured such that at least one respective one of the fluid receiving channels passes over the first fluid ports directly fluidly connected to each other during movement or switching of the fluid valve and temporarily with these for receiving the branched part fluidic sample is fluidically coupled. As an alternative or in addition, the second fluid connections, which are directly coupled to one another fluidically, can be swept by at least one respective one of the fluid receiving channels during the movement or switching of the fluid valve and temporarily coupled to the respective at least one fluid receiving channel for transferring the branched part of the fluidic sample. A corresponding embodiment is again in FIG 3 shown.

 According to one embodiment, the fluid receiving channels may be grouped into a plurality of fluid receiving channel groups, each of which is associated with an angular sector of the fluid valve. The fluid receiving channels of a respective fluid receiving channel group may be arranged radially and tangentially offset from each other. In particular, a connection direction of the centers of gravity of the fluid receiving channels of a respective group can be tilted relative to an extension direction of one of the fluid connections or of fluid connections directly coupled to one another. This can be accomplished that when turning the fluid valve, the individual fluid receiving channels of a respective group only one after the other and thus delayed, possibly exactly overlapping partially, the or the respective fluid connections (or a groove assigned to this) and thus a continuous coupling of the first fluid connections Ensure at least one respective fluid receiving channel and / or the second fluid connections to at least one respective other fluid receiving channel. As a result, the freedom of interruption in the analytical path and / or in the preparative path can also be ensured.

According to one embodiment, the fluid valve may be configured such that, during a filling of a downstream portion of the fluidic sample portion to be branched into one of the fluid receiving channels that is currently in fluid communication with the first fluid ports, a preceding other portion of the fluidic sample may be detected in the fluid sample analytical path is deflated by dumping the previous portion from another of the fluid receiving channels into the analytical path, which other fluid receiving channel is currently in fluidic communication with the second fluid ports. Advantageously, the fluid receiving channels can also be designed such that, when the fluid valve is continuously moved or switched, a respective portion of the branched-off part of the fluidic sample is initially between the two first fluid connections a respective fluid receiving channel flows and after continued moving or switching this portion flows out of the fluid receiving channel between the second fluid ports. Thereby, a continuous operation can be ensured, in particular with regard to the continuous transport of a small amount of the fluidic sample into the analytical path.

 According to an embodiment of the sample separation apparatus, the preparative path may include a fluid drive device (eg, a fluidic high pressure pump) configured to drive mobile phase (especially a solvent or solvent composition) and fluid sample therein, and a sample separator (particularly a chromatographic separator) formed into fractions for separating the fluidic sample and disposed upstream of a branch of the fluidic sample from the preparative path into the analytical path. Thus, the fluidic sample can first be separated in particular chromatographically, for which purpose the temporal composition of the mobile phase can also be varied (so-called gradient run). After this separation, at the branch point where the fluid valve can be located, a continuous flow through the fluid valve and into the analytical path and, in parallel, a continuous flow through the fluid valve and into the preparative path can take place.

 In one embodiment, the sample separation apparatus may further include a fractionator disposed in the preparative path downstream of the branching point (and downstream of the fluid valve) and configured to fractionate the separate fluidic sample. In such a fractionator, the sample separated in the preparative path and thus purified can be filled into one or more receptacles. In order to purposefully control this filling, a controller may advantageously use the information obtained in the analytical path about the current separation state of the fluidic sample. Clearly, during preparation, it is advantageous to know the current separation state of the fluidic sample in order to decide in which receiving vessel of the fractionator currently flowing out fluidic sample should be filled.

 According to one embodiment, the analytical path may include detection means for detecting the branched portion of the separated fluidic sample. Such a detection device can be, for example, a flow cell, wherein the detection principle can be based on a fluorescence measurement.

 According to one embodiment, the sample separation apparatus may further comprise a further fluid drive means (eg, another fluid pump) disposed in the analytical path and configured to deliver the branched portion of the fluidic sample flowing out of the fluid valve to the detection means. Thus, the analytical path may comprise a separate means for driving the branched fluidic sample, in particular together with the mobile phase provided by the further fluid drive means, and for supplying the same to the detection means.

 According to one embodiment, the branched-off portion of the fluidic sample may be smaller than a portion of the fluidic sample remaining in the preparative path, in particular at most 1 volume percent of the total fluidic sample. For example, the flow rate in the analytical path may be between 0.05 ml / min and 3 ml / min, especially 1 ml / min per min. In contrast, the flow rate in the preparative path can be between 10 ml / min and 10 l / min, in particular 100 ml / min.

According to one embodiment, the fluid receiving channels may be circular (see for example 3 ) or bent (see for example 2 ) be. Other forms of fluid receiving channels are possible.

According to one embodiment, the fluid valve may have two further first fluid ports for connection to the preparative path (or to another preparative path) and two further second fluid ports for connection to the analytical path (or to another analytical path). A corresponding embodiment is in 5 shown. As a result, a particularly smooth transition can be created and a particularly continuous splitting of the flow can be achieved.

 According to one exemplary embodiment, the sample separation device may have a control device (for example a processor or a part thereof) which is designed to control the fluid valve such that the fluid valve is continuously (in particular steplessly) and / or exclusively in one direction of movement (in particular in a constant direction of rotation ) is driven. Such a control device may alternatively or additionally be designed to control the fractionator based on a detection result of the detection device.

The sample separation device can be a microfluidic measuring device, a life science device, a liquid chromatography device, an HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography), a gas chromatography device, an electrophoresis device and / or a gel electrophoresis device. However, many other applications are possible.

 The sample separator may include a pump for moving a mobile phase. Such a pump may, for example, be adapted 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. Alternatively or additionally, the sample separation device may have a Probeninjektor for injection of the sample into a mobile phase. Such a sample injector may include a needle in a seat of a corresponding fluid pathway that may extend out of that seat to receive sample and which, upon reintroduction into the seat, injects the sample into the system. Alternatively or additionally, the sample separation apparatus may include a sample fractionator for fractionating the separated components. Such a fractionator may carry the various components, for example, into different liquid containers. The analyzed 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 Figure 4 shows an HPLC system with a preparative path and analytical path according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

2 shows a fluid valve for the in 1 shown HPLC system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

3 shows another fluid valve for the in 1 shown HPLC system according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention.

4 shows another fluid valve for the in 1 2, according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, in which the first fluid ports are formed as an elongate groove in a stator element, the second fluid ports as an elongated groove in the stator element and the fluid receiving channels as a plurality of circular grooves in a rotor element.

5 shows another fluid valve for the in 1 shown HPLC system according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, in addition to 4 further first fluid connections are provided as a further elongated groove in the stator element and further second fluid connections are provided as a further elongate groove in the stator element.

6 shows another fluid valve for the in 1 shown HPLC system according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, in which, as in 2 Fluid receiving channels are formed as arcuate grooves in a rotor element.

 The illustration in the drawing is schematic.

Before referring to the further figures exemplary embodiments are described in detail, some general considerations will be described on the basis of which exemplary embodiments of the invention have been developed.

 According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a make-up fluidic splitter valve may be provided with continuous rotation during operation. Such a fluid valve can advantageously be used for the purpose of preparative sample separation, in particular in a preparative HPLC. Such a makeup splitter valve may serve to transfer small amounts of a preparative main flow of a fluidic sample into an analytical path (which may also be referred to as a makeup path), the branched flow being directed by means of a make-up flow (for example by means of further mobile flow Phase) can be diluted. In the analytical path, the diluted fluidic sample can be detected in a detection device. Such a detection device can be, for example, a sample-destructive detection device (for example a mass-selective detector, in particular a mass spectrometer) or a detection device which requires a signal of a diluted sample (for example a UV detector with an analytical cell).

Conventional passive makeup splinters employ two fluidic tees and combine preparative flow and analytical flow with a flow resistance capillary. However, such a solution has the disadvantage that the backpressure at a cleavage site on the preparative side must be greater than on the analytical side, resulting in a complicated configuration result Has. In addition, it is disadvantageous to such a solution that the decomposition ratio dynamically changes, for example, as the solvent composition of mobile phase changes due to viscosity effects.

 Another conventional approach is to use a fluid valve to split a flow, such a conventional fluid valve receiving a certain volume of preparative flow in a groove and transferring it into the analytical path through a corresponding valve circuit. However, such a solution has the great disadvantage that the flow into the analytical path is interrupted again and again during the switching of the fluid valve. By such a discontinuous sample transfer a continuous detection is impossible. Such a fluid valve wears quickly and then tends to leak. In addition, the operation of such a fluid valve involves significant noise and significant heat build-up on the rotor.

 For preparative HPLC applications, an automated and robust splitter would be desirable that can be easily operated by a user (particularly with regard to adjustments, start and stop operation, etc.). In addition, it would be desirable to have a high dynamic range of operation in terms of flow rate and split ratio. Exemplary embodiments of the invention, which will be described in more detail below, provide a splitter fluid valve that can overcome at least part of the above disadvantages of conventional solutions.

 According to such an exemplary embodiment, there is provided a fluid valve that can be employed at an interface between a preparative path and an analytical path and can ensure a continuous flow of branched fluidic sample from the preparative path into the analytical path. Advantageously, this can be achieved independently of changes in viscosity via a gradient run of a mobile phase which can occur during chromatographic sample separation. The modification of a preparative back pressure is dispensable in such a configuration to achieve branching of a portion of a fluidic sample from the preparative path into the analytical pathway. In addition, the presence and operation of such a fluid valve advantageously does not significantly affect the backpressure. The flow from the preparative path into the analytical path, and preferably the flow along the preparative path, is never interrupted. Such a fluid valve according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention may be controlled in operation to perform a continuous valve rotation. This reduces the wear of the fluid valve by suppressing alternating accelerations and static friction. In addition, the performance requirements for the valve operation are reduced. Furthermore, the noise development of the fluid valve in operation can be significantly reduced compared to conventional solutions.

 According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a fluid valve operating continuously (instead of a stepwise switching) is provided in operation. Advantageously, such a fluid valve may be configured with regard to the arrangement of the fluid ports for coupling the preparative path and the analytical path and the fluid receiving channels for transferring fluidic sample to be branched from the preparative path into the analytical path so that the flow is never blocked.

1 shows the basic structure of a preparative HPLC system as a sample separation device 10 as can be used, for example, to recover a fluid separated and contaminated fluid sample by liquid chromatography. A pump as a fluid drive device 20 containing solvents from a supply unit 25 supplied drives a mobile phase through a sample separator 30 (such as a chromatographic column) containing a stationary phase. A degasser 27 may degas the solvents before these the fluid drive means 20 be supplied. A sample application unit 40 is between the fluid drive device 20 and the sample separator 30 arranged to in a corresponding switching state of an injector 95 to introduce a sample liquid into the mobile phase. The stationary phase of the sample separator 30 is intended to separate components of the sample fluid. A fractionator or fractionator 60 can be provided to issue separated components of the sample liquid in designated container. Waste liquids that are no longer required can be dispensed into a waste container (not shown).

While a fluid path between the fluid drive means 20 and the sample separator 30 typically at high pressure, the sample liquid under normal pressure is first in a separate area from the liquid path, a so-called sample loop (English: Sample Loop), the sample unit 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 separator 10 brought. A control unit 70 controls the individual components of the sample separator 10 ,

The sample separator 10 serves to separate a fluidic sample and has a preparative path 80 as well as an analytical path 85 on. The preparative path already described 80 , the components 20 . 25 . 27 . 30 . 40 . 60 . 95 is arranged to separate the fluidic sample in the manner described by means of liquid chromatography. The fractionator 60 is in the preparative path 80 downstream of a branch point 87 arranged and formed for fractionating the separate fluidic sample. The analytical path 85 on the other hand is set up, one by means of a rotary fluid valve 90 from the preparative path 80 diverted portion of the fluidic sample. The operation of the fluid valve 90 can also be from the control unit 70 to be controlled. The fluid valve 90 may be configured to rotate continuously during operation and serves as a fluidic interface for transferring the branched portion of the fluidic sample from the preparative path 80 in the analytical path 85 , 2 and 3 show exemplary embodiments of the fluid valve 90 ,

The fluid valve 90 has two first fluid connections 200 . 202 to connect to the preparative path 80 on. fluid port 200 is directly downstream of the sample separator 30 arranged. fluid port 202 is directly upstream of the fractionator 60 arranged. Two second fluid connections 204 . 206 of the fluid valve 90 serve for fluidic connection to the analytical path 85 , fluid port 204 is directly downstream of another fluid drive device 22 the analytical path 85 arranged. fluid port 206 is directly upstream of a detection device 50 arranged to detect the branched fluidic sample passing through the further fluid drive means 22 promoted mobile phase before reaching the detection device 50 is diluted. Furthermore, the fluid valve 90 a plurality of relative to the fluid ports 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 movable fluid receiving channels 208 for temporarily receiving the branched portion of the fluidic sample upon transfer from the preparative path 80 through a respective one of the fluid receiving channels 208 in the analytical path 85 on. The fluid receiving channels 208 are for the two in 2 and 3 illustrated embodiments shown in detail. The fluid connections are advantageous 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 and the fluid receiving channels 208 arranged relative to each other and movable relative to each other so as to provide an uninterrupted flow of the branched portion of the fluidic sample from the preparative path 80 through the fluid valve 90 through into the analytic path 85 accomplish.

As already mentioned, the analytical path points 85 the detection device 50 for detecting the branched portion of the separated fluidic sample. Further, the analytical path points 85 the further fluid drive device 22 which is set up, the diverted part of the out of the fluid valve 90 flowing out fluidic sample to the detection device 50 to promote and dilute with mobile phase.

The branched portion of the fluidic sample is preferably substantially smaller than one in the preparative path 80 remaining part of the fluidic sample. The ratio of the two flow rates relative to the fluid volume may be, for example, 1: 100.

The control device 70 controls the fluid valve 90 such that the fluid valve 90 is operated exclusively in a movement or switching direction, for example counterclockwise. Further preferably, the control device controls 70 the fluid valve 90 such that it continuously rotates during operation, which results in a low-wear operation of the fluid valve 90 causes. The control device 70 also controls the fractionator 60 based on a detection result of the detection device 50 ,

2 shows a fluid valve 90 that in the in 1 shown preparative HPLC system as a sample separator 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention can be implemented. In operation, the fluid valve 90 exclusively and continuously along a direction of rotation 270 rotated, resulting in a low-wear and quiet operation.

In the fluid valve 90 according to 2 are the fluid connections 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 and the fluid receiving channels 208 formed an uninterrupted flow of the fluidic sample both along the entire preparative path 80 and through the fluid valve 90 through, as well as from the preparative path 80 through the fluid valve 90 through and into the analytic path 85 to accomplish. To simplify the graphic representation is in 2 only part of the fluid receiving channels provided along the entire circumference in the manner shown 208 drawn (along the entire circumference, the fluid receiving channels 208 corresponding 6 be arranged). While the fluid valve 90 continuously along the rotation direction 270 turns and the fluid drive equipment 20 . 22 promote mobile phase and fluidic sample, this is done twice uninterrupted flow automatically as a result of in 2 shown embodiment of the fluid connections 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 and the cooperating fluid receiving channels 208 , In other words, the fluid connections 200 . 202 204 . 206 and the fluid receiving channels 208 trained, in each rotational and operating state of the fluid valve 90 the flow of the fluidic sample in the preparative path 80 and the flow of the branched portion of the fluidic sample in the analytical path 85 maintain uninterrupted.

The fluid valve 90 has a rotatable and circular disk-shaped rotor element and a stationary and likewise circular disk-shaped stator element, both of which are perpendicular to the paper plane of 2 stacked on top of each other. The fluid connections 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 are provided by means of ports and grooves on the stator element, and the fluid receiving channels 208 are arranged as grooves in the rotor element. The individual grooves of the fluid receiving channels 208 are dependent on a current rotational or operating state of the fluid valve 90 with associated grooves and ports of the fluid ports 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 fluidly coupled or associated with the grooves or ports of the fluid connections 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 fluidically decoupled. According to 2 are the first two fluid connections 200 . 202 (Fluid inlet 200 , Fluid outlet 202 ) tangentially to each other. Likewise, the two second fluid ports 204 . 206 (Fluid inlet 204 , Fluid outlet 206 ) according to 2 tangentially offset to each other. In other words, according to 2 all fluid connections 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 along the direction of rotation 270 arranged offset from one another. The two first fluid connections 200 . 202 are formed as from a common initial radius R1 to a common end radius R2 radially extending ports. Accordingly, the two second fluid ports 204 . 206 as formed from the common initial radius R1 to the common end radius R2 radially extending terminals. The length of the fluidic channels or grooves of the fluid connections 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 is thus identical to R2-R1 and by the distance from the farthest point fluid intake channels 208 and fulcrum next fluid receiving channels 208 Are defined.

According to 2 are the fluid receiving channels 208 as a plurality of fluid receiving channel groups arranged tangentially offset from each other 220 educated. Each fluid intake channel group 220 has three annular segment-shaped fluid receiving channels 208 on, which have different distances from the fulcrum. More specifically, each of the fluid receiving channel groups 220 of three fluid receiving channels extending in the tangential direction 208 formed, which overlap each other in the tangential direction and are spaced apart in the radial direction.

The two first fluid connections 200 . 202 are in any operating condition of the fluid valve 90 by means of a respective one of the fluid receiving channels 208 coupled fluidically (in the current operating state, the in 2 is shown, the coupling fluid receiving channel with reference numerals 208 ' in). At the same time, the coupling fluid receiving channel fills 208 ' with new fluidic sample for subsequent transfer to the analytical path 85 , Likewise, the two second fluid ports are 204 . 206 in any operating condition of the fluid valve 90 by means of a respective one of the fluid receiving channels 208 coupled fluidically (in the current operating state, the in 2 is shown, the coupling fluid receiving channel with reference numerals 208 '' in). In this case, the fluidic sample is emptied in the fluid receiving channel 208 '' converting it into the analytical path 85 , Due to the arrangement of the fluid connections shown 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 and the cooperating fluid receiving channels 208 can be found at every rotational position or at every rotation state of the fluid valve 90 a respective fluid receiving channel 208 , which is the first fluid connections 200 . 202 bridged. This is at every rotational position or in each state of rotation of the fluid valve 90 Ensures that the river is in the preparative path 80 through the first fluid connections 200 . 202 and the respective changing fluid receiving channel 208 ' is maintained without interruption. Furthermore, it is found at each rotational position or in each state of rotation of the fluid valve 90 a respective other fluid receiving channel 208 that the second fluid connections 204 . 206 bridged. This is at every rotational position or in each state of rotation of the fluid valve 90 ensures that the flow into the analytical path 85 through the second fluid ports 204 . 206 and the respective changing fluid receiving channel 208 '' is maintained without interruption.

The fluid valve 90 is thus designed such that during filling of a downstream portion of the part to be branched, the fluidic sample into one of the fluid receiving channels 208 (see fluid receiving channel 208 ' ) currently in fluidic communication with the first fluid ports 200 . 202 is a previous other portion of the fluidic sample for detection in the analytical path 85 is transferred by the preceding portion of another of the fluid receiving channels 208 (See fluid intake channel 208 '' ) in the analytical path 85 is emptied, which other fluid receiving channel 208 currently in fluidic communication with the second fluid ports 204 . 206 stands. Further, the fluid receiving channels 208 trained that while continuing Switching the fluid valve 90 a respective portion of the branched portion of the fluidic sample first between the first two fluid ports 200 . 202 into a respective fluid receiving channel 208 flows and after continued switching this portion of the fluid receiving channel 208 between the second fluid ports 204 . 206 flows.

According to the exemplary embodiment of 2 the preparative flow takes place between the first fluid connections 200 . 202 and the analytical flow (which may also be referred to as make-up flow) between the second fluid ports 204 . 206 each in two separate static and in the embodiment shown rectilinear grooves in the stator of the fluid valve 90 that define the flow inlet and the flow outlet. These grooves may be connected to ports of the stator element, to which in turn fluid lines for fluidically coupling the connected fluidic components (see reference numeral 30 . 60 . 22 . 50 ) can be connected. Rotating and in the embodiment shown curved grooves in the rotor element of the fluid valve 90 according to 2 are first filled with preparative flow, which is then flushed or washed into the makeup flow. The positions and lengths of all fluid port grooves 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 and the fluid receiving channels 208 are chosen so that neither the preparative flow nor the make-up flow at any time or in any operating state of the fluid valve 90 is blocked.

Alternatively to the illustration according to 2 it is possible that the shape of the grooves is modified so that the stator grooves are bent and the rotor grooves are arranged in columns. Furthermore, according to 2 longer rotor grooves for a more continuous washing.

In the embodiment according to 2 There is no interruption of the flow in the preparation path or in the make-up path. Furthermore, there is no direct fluidic connection between the preparation path and the make-up path. Because the movement of the fluid valve 90 according to 2 is continuous, there is no static friction and no unwanted effects due to longitudinal acceleration.

Alternative to the configuration according to 2 offset rotor slots are possible with respect to curved stator slots. It is possible to provide a large number of three or more rotor slots per group to allow smooth transitions in fluid transfer. Longer grooves result in more continuous washing out. An increased number of stator ports or stator slots results in a smoother transition, clearly demonstrating harmonic stator-rotor connections.

3 shows another fluid valve 90 also in the in 1 shown preparative HPLC system as a sample separator 10 According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention can be implemented. To simplify the graphic representation is in 3 only part of the fluid receiving channels provided in the manner shown along the entire circumference 208 located.

According to 3 are the first two fluid connections 200 . 202 independent of the fluid receiving channels 208 , thus directly or immediately, always fluidly coupled together. In a corresponding manner are according to 3 the second fluid connections 204 . 206 independent of the fluid receiving channels 208 , thus directly or immediately, always fluidly coupled together. This provides both a continuous flow of fluidic sample in the preparative path 80 as well as a continuous flow in the analytical path 85 for sure. In particular, this is in 3 shown fluid valve 90 formed such that during rotation of the fluid valve 90 in each case at least one respective one of the fluid receiving channels 208 the connecting groove of the fluidly connected directly to each other first fluid connections 200 . 202 swept over and at times is fluidly coupled with this for receiving the branched portion of the fluidic sample. According to the operating condition in 3 these are three fluid receiving channels 208 ''' , Further, in the embodiment according to 3 the connecting groove of the fluidly coupled directly to each other second fluid ports 204 . 206 during rotation of the fluid valve 90 each of at least one respective one of the fluid receiving channels 208 overlined and thereby for transferring the branched portion of the fluidic sample temporarily with the respective at least one fluid receiving channel 208 fluidly coupled. According to the operating condition in 3 these are two fluid receiving channels 208 '''' ,

Furthermore, according to 3 the fluid receiving channels 208 into several fluid receiving channel groups 220 grouped, each of which is an angular sector of the fluid valve 90 assigned. The fluid receiving channels 208 a respective fluid receiving channel group 220 are here preferably arranged radially and tangentially offset from each other. According to 3 contains each of the fluid receiving channel groups 220 five mutually separate and in the embodiment shown circular grooves, in the radial direction from the inside to the outside along the direction of rotation 270 offset from each other. A connecting line of the centers of gravity of these grooves of a fluid receiving channel group 220 is opposite to a radial alignment line through a center of rotating valve body and the innermost of the grooves of a fluid receiving channel group 220 twisted.

According to 3 Thus, a common preparative inlet and outlet groove and a common makeup-related or inlet and outlet inlet groove are formed in the stator. Transfer of fluid, in particular fluidic sample, and thus the transport of material from the preparative path 80 in the analytical path 85 is performed by the round grooves in the rotor element. Their high number (for example at least 10, in particular at least 50) guarantees an almost continuous mass transfer. A short distance between preparative grooves and make-up grooves guarantees a short delay time of the splitter valve.

Also in the embodiment according to 3 There is no interruption of the flow in the preparation path or in the make-up path. Furthermore, there is no direct fluidic connection between the preparation path and the make-up path. Because the movement of the fluid valve 90 also according to 3 is continuous, there is no static friction and no unwanted effects due to longitudinal acceleration.

Alternative to the configuration according to 3 offset rotor slots are possible with respect to curved stator slots. It is possible to provide a large number of rotor slots per group to allow smooth transitions in fluid transfer. Longer grooves (compared to grooves with a circular cylindrical cross-section) result in more continuous washing out. An increased number of stator ports or stator slots results in a smoother transition, clearly demonstrating harmonic stator-rotor connections.

4 shows a fluid valve 90 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the first fluid ports 200 . 202 as an elongate groove in a stator element, the second fluid ports 204 . 206 as an elongated groove in the stator element and the fluid receiving channels 208 are formed as a plurality of circular grooves in a rotor element. Arrows in 4 indicate the flow direction of the corresponding fluid.

5 shows a fluid valve 90 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, in addition to 4 further first fluid connections 200 ' . 202 ' (Functionally the first fluid connections 200 . 202 correspond) as another elongated groove in the stator element and further second fluid connections 204 ' . 206 ' (the functionally the second fluid connections 204 . 206 correspond) are provided as a further elongated groove in the stator element. Arrows in 5 indicate the flow direction of the corresponding fluid.

6 shows a fluid valve 90 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, in which, as in 2 Fluid intake channels 208 are formed as arcuate grooves in a rotor element. Arrows in 6 indicate the flow direction of the corresponding fluid.

 According to exemplary embodiments of the invention, it is possible to provide more than just a pair of inlet grooves and outlet grooves in the stator element to achieve an even smoother transition and an even more continuous flow splitting. Further, by providing a sufficiently large number of rotor slots, it is possible to make the transfer of fluid even gentler and more continuous.

A person skilled in the art will understand that the sizes, positions and shapes of the grooves or ports as they are in 2 to 6 are merely exemplary and can be configured differently, provided that the uninterrupted flow of fluidic sample into the analytical path 85 is always guaranteed.

 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 3567389 [0005]
• US 3885439 [0005]
• US 6890489 [0005]
• US 7575723 [0005]
• US 9032819 [0005]

Claims (20)

Fluid valve ( 90 ) for a sample separation device ( 10 ) with a preparative path ( 80 ) for separating a fluidic sample and one from the preparative path ( 80 ) branching analytical path ( 85 ) for analyzing one from the preparative path ( 80 ) branched part of the fluidic sample, wherein the fluid valve ( 90 ): two first fluid ports ( 200 . 202 ) to connect to the preparative path ( 80 ); two second fluid connections ( 204 . 206 ) for connection to the analytical path ( 85 ); a plurality of relative to the fluid ports ( 200 . 202 . 204 . 200 ) movable fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) for temporarily receiving the branched portion of the fluidic sample upon transfer from the preparative path ( 80 ) through a respective one of the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) into the analytical path ( 85 ); the fluid connections ( 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 ) and the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) are arranged relative to one another and are movable in order to ensure uninterrupted flow of the branched-off part of the fluidic sample from the preparative path (FIG. 80 ) through the fluid valve ( 90 ) into the analytical path ( 85 ) to accomplish. Fluid valve ( 90 ) according to claim 1, comprising one or more of the following features: wherein the fluid connections ( 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 ) and the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) are arranged and movable relative to each other, an uninterrupted flow of the fluidic sample along the preparative path ( 80 ) to accomplish; the fluid connections ( 200 . 202 204 . 206 ) and the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) are formed, in each operating state of the fluid valve ( 90 ) the flow of the fluidic sample in the preparative path ( 80 ) and the flow of the branched portion of the fluidic sample in the analytical path ( 85 ) maintain uninterrupted; the fluid valve ( 90 ) a rotary fluid valve ( 90 ), in particular a rotor element and a stator element, wherein the fluid connections ( 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 ) on the stator element and the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) are arranged on the rotor element; the fluid connections ( 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 ) Ports and grooves on a valve body of the fluid valve ( 90 ) and the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) Grooves on another valve body of the fluid valve ( 90 ), wherein the grooves of the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) depending on an operating state of the fluid valve ( 90 ) with associated ports and grooves of the fluid ports ( 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 ) fluidically coupled or associated with the ports and grooves of the fluid ports ( 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 ) are fluidically decoupled; wherein the two first fluid connections ( 200 . 202 ) tangentially to one another and / or the two second fluid connections ( 204 . 206 ) are offset tangentially to each other; wherein the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) are formed such that when the fluid valve (2) is continuously moved ( 90 ) a respective portion of the branched portion of the fluidic sample first between the two first fluid ports ( 200 . 202 ) into a respective fluid receiving channel ( 208 ) and after continued movement of the fluid valve ( 90 ) this portion from the fluid receiving channel ( 208 ) between the second fluid ports ( 204 . 206 ) flows away; wherein the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) are circular or curved; the fluid valve ( 90 ) two further first fluid connections ( 200 ' . 202 ' ) to connect to the preparative path ( 80 ) or to another preparative path and two further second fluid connections ( 204 ' . 206 ' ) for connection to the analytical path ( 85 ) or to another analytical path. Fluid valve ( 90 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the two first fluid connections ( 200 . 202 ) are formed as from a common initial radius (R1) to a common end radius (R2) radially extending ports and / or the two second fluid ports (R1) 204 . 206 ) are formed as from a common initial radius (R1) to a common end radius (R2) radially extending ports. Fluid valve ( 90 ) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) as a plurality of fluid intake channel groups ( 220 ) are formed. Fluid valve ( 90 ) according to claim 4, wherein at least a part of the fluid receiving channel groups ( 220 ) of a plurality of fluid receiving channels extending in the tangential direction ( 208 ) is formed, which overlap each other in the tangential direction and are spaced apart in the radial direction. Fluid valve ( 90 ) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the two first fluid connections ( 200 . 202 ) in each operating state of the fluid valve ( 90 ) by means of a respective one of the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) are fluidly coupled together and / or wherein the two second fluid connections ( 204 . 206 ) in each operating state of the fluid valve ( 90 ) by means of a respective one of the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) are fluidly coupled together. Fluid valve ( 90 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the two first fluid connections ( 200 . 202 ) independent of the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) are fluidically coupled with each other directly and / or the second fluid connections ( 204 . 206 ) independent of the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) are fluidly coupled with each other directly. Fluid valve ( 90 ) according to one of claims 1, 2 or 7, wherein the fluid valve ( 90 ) is designed such that during the movement of the fluid valve ( 90 ) at least one respective one of the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) the first fluid connections ( 200 . 202 ) and at times with the first fluid connections ( 200 . 202 ) is fluidically coupled to receive the branched portion of the fluidic sample and / or the fluidly coupled directly to each other second fluid ports ( 204 . 206 ) during the switching of the fluid valve ( 90 ) each of at least one respective one of the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) and thereby for transferring the branched part of the fluidic sample temporarily with the respective at least one fluid receiving channel ( 208 ) are fluidically coupled. Fluid valve ( 90 ) according to one of claims 1, 2, 7 or 8, wherein the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) into several fluid receiving channel groups ( 220 ) are grouped, each of which is an angular sector of the fluid valve ( 90 ), wherein the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) of a respective fluid intake channel group ( 220 ) are arranged radially and tangentially offset to each other. Fluid valve ( 90 ) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fluid valve ( 90 ) is formed such that during filling of a downstream portion of the part to be branched off the fluidic sample into one of the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) currently in fluidic communication with the first fluid ports ( 200 . 202 ), a preceding other portion of the fluidic sample for detection in the analytical path ( 85 ) is transferred by the preceding portion of another of the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) into the analytical path ( 85 ) is emptied, which other fluid receiving channel ( 208 ) are currently in fluidic communication with the second fluid ports ( 204 . 206 ) stands. Sample Separator ( 10 ) for separating a fluidic sample, wherein the sample separation device ( 10 ) has a preparative path ( 80 ) arranged to separate the fluidic sample; an analytical path ( 85 ), which is set up, one from the preparative path ( 80 ) diverted portion of the fluidic sample; and a fluid valve ( 90 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 for transferring the branched portion of the fluidic sample from the preparative path ( 80 ) into the analytical path ( 85 ). Sample Separator ( 10 ) according to claim 11, wherein the preparative path ( 80 ) comprises: a fluid drive device ( 20 ) configured to drive mobile phase and fluidic sample therein; and a sample separator ( 30 ) formed to separate the fluidic sample into fractions and upstream of a branch point ( 87 ) of the fluidic sample from the preparative path ( 80 ) into the analytical path ( 85 ) is arranged. Sample Separator ( 10 ) according to claim 12, further comprising a fractionator ( 60 ) in the preparative path ( 80 ) downstream of the branch point ( 87 ) and is arranged to fractionate the separate fluidic sample. Sample Separator ( 10 ) according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the analytical path ( 85 ) a detection device ( 50 ) for detecting the branched portion of the separated fluidic sample. Sample Separator ( 10 ) according to claims 13 and 14, comprising a control device ( 70 ) used to control the fractionator ( 60 ) based on a detection result of the detection device ( 50 ) is set up. Sample Separator ( 10 ) according to claim 14 or 15, further comprising a further fluid drive device ( 22 ) in the analytical path ( 85 ) is arranged and arranged, the diverted part of the from the fluid valve ( 90 ) flowing out fluidic sample, in particular diluted with means of the further fluid drive device ( 22 ) conveyed mobile phase, to the detection device ( 50 ) to promote. Sample Separator ( 10 ) according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the branched portion of the fluidic sample is smaller than one in the preparative path ( 80 ) remaining part of the fluidic sample is, in particular at most 1 volume percent of the total fluidic sample. Sample Separator ( 10 ) according to one of claims 11 to 17, comprising a control device ( 70 ) used to control the fluid valve ( 90 ) is designed such that the fluid valve ( 90 ) is continuously driven and / or driven exclusively in one direction of movement. Sample Separator ( 10 ) according to one of claims 11 to 18, further comprising at least one of the following features: the sample separation device ( 10 ) has a sample separator ( 30 ), which are called chromatographic Separating device, in particular as a chromatographic separation, is formed; 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 ) comprises at least one of the group consisting of a detector device, a chemical, biological and / or pharmaceutical analysis device, a liquid chromatography device and an HPLC device; the sample separator ( 10 ) has a fluid drive device ( 20 ) configured to drive mobile phase at a high pressure; the sample separation device has a fluid drive device ( 20 ), which is configured to drive mobile phase at a pressure of at least 100 bar, in particular of at least 500 bar, more particularly of at least 1200 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 an injector device ( 40 ) for introducing the fluidic sample into a fluidic path between a fluid drive device ( 20 ) and a sample separator ( 30 ) of the preparative path ( 80 ) on. Method for branching off part of a sample by means of a sample separating device ( 10 ) to be prepared fluidic sample from a preparative path ( 80 ) for separating the fluidic sample into an analytical path ( 85 ) for analyzing the separated fluidic sample by means of a fluid valve ( 90 ), the method comprising: connecting two first fluid connections ( 200 . 202 ) of the fluid valve ( 90 ) to the preparative path ( 80 ); Connection of two second fluid connections ( 204 . 206 ) of the fluid valve ( 90 ) to the analytical path ( 85 ); Moving a plurality of fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) of the fluid valve ( 90 ) for temporarily receiving the branched portion of the fluidic sample relative to the fluid ports ( 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 ) when transferring from the preparative path ( 80 ) through a respective one of the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) into the analytical path ( 85 ), wherein the fluid connections ( 200 . 202 . 204 . 206 ) and the fluid receiving channels ( 208 ) are moved relative to each other and moved to allow uninterrupted flow of the branched portion of the fluidic sample from the preparative path (FIG. 80 ) through the fluid valve ( 90 ) into the analytical path ( 85 ) to accomplish.

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