Patent ID: 7610941
Filing Date: 2009-11-03
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A method of preparing samples for analysis, comprising: injecting a liquid in a column of a plurality of columns of a movable plate located at a first position using a movable injection needle; moving the movable plate from the first position to a second position by coupling the movable injection needle with the movable plate and moving the movable injection needle; injecting a second liquid in the column of the movable plate located at the second position using the movable injection needle while the plurality of columns are open to the atmosphere; after injecting the second liquid, moving the movable plate downwards into sealing engagement with an underlying receptacle; after sealing, subjecting the underlying receptacle to a vacuum; drawing liquid from all of the plurality of columns into the underlying receptacle through a stationary phase provided in each column; and releasing the vacuum from the underlying receptacle.