Patent Description:
The present invention relates to a nuclide separating device, and more specifically, the present invention relates to a nuclide separating device that separates a nuclide of interest from a sample for performing the evaluation of radioactive properties of radioactive waste, decommissioned waste, and the like.

The evaluation of radioactive properties of radioactive waste (solids, soil, water, etc.) or decommissioned waste (concrete, metal, etc.) is a very important factor in the disposal of radioactive waste or the decommissioning of nuclear power plants. This is because disposal strategies and disposal costs vary depending on the radioactive concentrations derived through the evaluation of radioactive properties.

The evaluation of radioactive properties of radioactive waste and decommissioned waste is based on the results of gamma nuclide analysis and alpha/beta nuclide analysis. Among these, in the case of alpha/beta nuclides, chemical separation must be required due to the radioactive characteristics and the properties of detectors. The chemical separation technique used in recent years is based on the extraction chromatography method, and the extraction chromatography method is a method of separating nuclides of interest and interfering ions after filling a column with resin.

As such, the chemical separation process is complicated and takes a long time, and the difference in separation efficiency may be large depending on the skill of the analyst. In order to solve such a problem, an automatic nuclide separating device that automatically performs nuclide separation using chemical separation technology has been introduced.

However, the automatic nuclide separating device according to the prior art has a limitation in terms of throughput, because the maximum number of samples that can be continuously separated is eight. Accordingly, there is a need to develop a nuclide separating device capable of increasing the efficiency of a process in which a large number of samples are generated, such as a process for evaluating radioactive characteristics of decommissioned wastes in which <NUM> or more samples are generated per day and the like.

<CIT> discloses an apparatus and system for the separation and optional analysis of the components of a sample of material, the apparatus and system comprising a cartridge comprising: at least one sample inlet port, at least one resin inlet port and a multiplicity of reagent and purge fluid input ports which are fluidically connected via a multiplicity of control valves to a multiplicity of chromatographic columns which are fluidically connected together in series; and a multiplicity of outlet ports wherein each outlet port additionally comprises an outlet valve which is adapted to control the flow of fluid through said outlet ports; wherein each of said multiplicity of chromatographic columns is aligned with one of said multiplicity of outlet ports so as to allow for fluid flow from said column through said outlet port. The system optionally additionally facilitates the analysis of the components. The invention additionally provides a method for the separation of the components of a sample of material which comprises the use of the apparatus and system of the invention. The apparatus, system and method of the invention are advantageously applied to the separation and analysis of radioactive materials.

The present invention is to solve the problems of the prior art described above, and the present invention aims to provide a nuclide separating device capable of continuously performing nuclide separation for a number of samples.

According to the present invention there is provided a nuclide separating device, comprising: a column arrangement part in which a plurality of columns are arranged; a first fluid channel through which a reagent or sample to be introduced into each of the columns arranged in the column arrangement part is transferred; a second fluid channel through which a purified sample or waste discharged from the column is delivered to a collection part; a fluid channel forming part for connecting or disconnecting the first fluid channel and the second fluid channel to or from a random column arranged in the column arrangement part; a main pump for supplying pressure to introduce the reagent or the sample into the first fluid channel and to discharge the purified sample or waste from the column; and a transfer part for transferring the fluid channel forming part so that the fluid channel forming part can connect or disconnect the first fluid channel and the second fluid channel to or from another random column arranged in the column arrangement part characterized in that the fluid channel forming part connects one column of the plurality of columns to the first fluid channel and the second fluid channel, the transfer part transfers the fluid channel forming part after extraction of the one column is completed, and the fluid channel forming part connects another one of the plurality of columns to the first fluid channel and the second fluid channel.

In this case, the transfer part may be capable of transferring the fluid channel forming part back and forth, and left and right.

In addition, the fluid channel forming part may include a first fluid channel connection part disposed above the column to connect or disconnect the first fluid channel to or from the upper portion of the column; a second fluid channel connection part disposed below the column to connect or disconnect the second fluid channel to or from the lower portion of the column; and an operational part for lowering or raising the first fluid channel connection part to connect or disconnect the first fluid channel to or from the upper portion of the column, and raising or lowering the second fluid channel connection part to connect or disconnect the second fluid channel to or from the lower portion of the column.

In addition, the collection part may include a purified sample collection container in which the purified sample is collected, and a waste collection container in which the waste is collected, and the fluid channel forming part may further include a discharge selection valve for selectively connecting the second fluid channel connection part to any one of the purified sample collection container and the waste collection container.

In addition, the nuclide separating device may further include a reagent supply part for selecting a random reagent among a plurality of reagents and supplying the same to the first fluid channel; a sample supply part for supplying the sample to the first fluid channel; and an inlet selection valve disposed in the first fluid channel to selectively connect the first fluid channel to any one of the reagent supply part and the sample supply part.

In addition, the sample supply part may include a needle for penetrating into a sample container containing the sample; a sample supply fluid channel formed between the needle and the inlet valve; and a needle transfer part for transferring the needle.

In addition, the sample supply part may further include a washing solution container containing a washing solution for washing the sample supply fluid channel, the first fluid channel, and the second fluid channel, and the needle transfer part may be capable of transferring the needle to penetrate into the washing solution container.

In addition, the sample supply part may include a plurality of sample containers for containing each different sample, and the needle and the needle transfer part may be controlled in a predetermined manner so that the samples in a plurality of sample containers and a washing solution in the washing solution container are supplied to the sample supply fluid channel according to a predetermined order.

In addition, the collection part may include a purified sample collection container in which the purified sample is collected, and a waste collection container in which the waste is collected; and a residual washing solution discharge part for transferring the residual washing solution in the washing solution container to the waste collection container.

In addition, the residual washing solution discharge part may include a washing solution discharge fluid channel formed between the washing solution container and the waste collection container; and a residual washing solution discharge pump for supplying pressure so that the residual washing solution is introduced into the washing solution discharge fluid channel.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, extraction of a plurality of columns can be efficiently performed through a fluid channel forming part for connecting or disconnecting a random column disposed in the column arrangement part to or from a transfer part for transferring the fluid channel forming part.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings such that those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains may easily practice. The present invention may be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described herein. In order to clearly describe the present invention, parts not relevant to the description in the drawings are omitted, and like reference numerals are assigned to the same or similar constitutional elements throughout the specification.

In the present specification, terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to describe the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or a combination thereof described in the specification, but it is to be understood that it does not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or a combination thereof.

<FIG> is a configurational diagram of a nuclide separating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The nuclide separating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is intended to be used in the nuclide analysis required for the evaluation of radioactive properties of radioactive waste and decommissioned waste, and in particular, it may be used for chemical separation of alpha/beta nuclides. More specifically, the nuclide separating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention allows that continuous chemical separation may be performed after filling the column with resin for a number of samples according to the extraction chromatography method of separating nuclides of interest and interference ions.

Referring to <FIG>, the nuclide separating device 1a according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a column arrangement part <NUM>, a first fluid channel <NUM>, a second fluid channel <NUM>, a reagent supply part <NUM>, a sample supply part <NUM>, an inlet selection valve <NUM>, a fluid channel forming part <NUM>, a main pump <NUM>, a transfer part <NUM>, a collection part <NUM>, a washing solution supply part <NUM>, and a residual washing solution discharge part <NUM>.

A plurality of columns C1 to Cn are arranged in the column arrangement part <NUM>. The column arrangement part <NUM> allows a plurality of columns C1 to Cn to be simultaneously arranged such that separation of a plurality of samples may be continuously performed.

The column arrangement part <NUM> may be formed of a tray having a plurality of column arranging holes <NUM> formed in a shape penetrated up and down to expose the upper and lower portions of the arranged column. Referring to <FIG>, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the column arrangement part <NUM> is formed of a rectangular tray. Other than the above, depending on the shape of the transfer part <NUM> to be described below, the column arrangement part <NUM> may be formed of a tray of another type such as an annular shape and the like.

The columns C1 to Cn are disposed by one in each column arrangement hole <NUM> of the column arrangement part <NUM>. The columns C1 to Cn are members into which reagents and samples are introduced. Resin is filled in the columns C1 to Cn, and reagents and samples are introduced therein to separate the purified sample including nuclides of interest and other wastes.

The first fluid channel <NUM> is a fluid channel through which reagents or samples to be introduced into the column disposed in the column arrangement part <NUM> are transferred. The first fluid channel <NUM> is connected to the reagent supply part <NUM>, the sample supply part <NUM>, and the inflow selection valve <NUM>. Depending on the operation of the inflow selection valve <NUM>, the first fluid channel <NUM> may be selectively connected to any one of the reagent supply unit <NUM> and the sample supply unit <NUM>.

The second fluid channel <NUM> delivers the purified sample or waste discharged from the column to the collection part <NUM>. The second fluid channel <NUM> has one end connected to the fluid channel forming part <NUM> and the other end connected to the collecting part <NUM>.

The second fluid channel <NUM> includes Fluid Channel <NUM>-<NUM> through which the purified sample or waste discharged from the column is introduced, Fluid Channel <NUM>-<NUM><NUM> for connecting a discharge selection valve <NUM> of a fluid channel forming part <NUM> to a purified sample collection container <NUM> of the collection part, and Fluid Channel <NUM>-<NUM> for connecting a discharge selection valve <NUM> of a fluid channel forming part <NUM> to a waste collection container <NUM> of a collection part <NUM>.

The reagent supply part <NUM> selects a random reagent among a plurality of reagents and supplies the same to the first fluid channel <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the reagent supply part <NUM> may supply six reagents R1 to R6, and the reagent selection valve <NUM> selects one reagent of the above and supplies the same to the first fluid channel.

Assuming that three reagents are used in the nuclide separating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first reagent R1 may be for column optimization, the second reagent R2 may be for washing and removing of interfering nuclides, and the third reagent R3 may be for extracting the nuclide of interest.

Meanwhile, when there are many interfering nuclides, more reagents may be used for washing and removing interfering nuclides, and accordingly, more reagents may be used. Furthermore, the number of reagents that the reagent supply part <NUM> may supply or the form of the reagent selection valve <NUM> may be changed as necessary.

The sample supply part <NUM> supplies a sample to the first fluid channel <NUM>. Herein, the sample is obtained from radioactive waste and decommissioned waste, and it is a subject for which it is necessary to determine whether nuclides of interest are included, the amount thereof, and the like.

The sample supply part <NUM> may include a plurality of sample containers S1 to Sn containing samples, a needle <NUM> for penetrating into the sample container containing the sample, a sample supply fluid channel <NUM> formed between the needle <NUM> and the inflow selection valve <NUM>, and a needle transfer part <NUM> for transferring the needle.

When the sample contained in any one of the sample containers is supplied to the first fluid channel <NUM> and the extraction of the nuclide of interest is performed, the needle transfer part <NUM> may transfer the needle <NUM> such that the sample contained in the other sample container may be supplied to the first fluid channel <NUM>.

The sample supply part <NUM> may further include a washing solution container V containing a washing solution for washing the fluid channel. For accurate analysis, after extracting a nuclide of interest for one sample and before supplying another sample to the first fluid channel <NUM>, it is necessary to wash the sample supply fluid channel <NUM>, the first fluid channel <NUM>, the second fluid channel <NUM>, and the like, and the needle transfer part <NUM> may transfer the needle <NUM> to penetrate into the washing solution container V.

Meanwhile, the sample supply part <NUM> may be automated by a computer program. For example, the needle <NUM> and the needle transfer part <NUM> are controlled by a computer program to continuously perform the separation of the nuclide of interest for a plurality of samples to operate such that the sample in a plurality of sample containers S1 to Sn and the washing solution in the washing solution container V are supplied to the fluid channel in a predetermined order.

The inflow selection valve <NUM> selectively connects the first fluid channel <NUM> to any one of the reagent supply part <NUM> and the sample supply part <NUM>. The inflow selection valve <NUM> may be connected to one end of the first fluid channel <NUM> to connect the first fluid channel <NUM> to the reagent supply part <NUM> or the sample supply part <NUM>.

The fluid channel forming unit <NUM> connects or disconnects the first fluid channel <NUM> and the second fluid channel <NUM> to or from a random column arranged in the column arrangement part <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the fluid channel forming part <NUM> includes a first fluid channel connection part <NUM>, a second fluid channel connection part <NUM>, an operational part <NUM>, and a discharge selection valve <NUM>.

The first fluid channel connection part <NUM> is disposed above the column to connect or disconnect the first fluid channel <NUM> to or from the upper portion of the column. The second fluid channel connection part <NUM> is disposed below the column to connect or disconnect the second fluid channel <NUM> to or from the lower portion of the column. The operational part <NUM> lowers or raises the first fluid channel connection part <NUM> to connect or disconnect the first fluid channel <NUM> to or from the upper portion of the column, and raises or lowers the second fluid channel connection part <NUM> to connect or disconnect the second fluid channel <NUM> to or from the lower portion of the column.

Meanwhile, the discharge selection valve <NUM> selectively connects the second fluid channel connection part <NUM> with any one of the purification sample collection container <NUM> and the waste collection container <NUM> of the collection unit <NUM>. More specifically, the discharge selection valve <NUM> connects the second fluid channel connection part <NUM> to the waste collection container <NUM> in the process of optimizing the column and separating interfering nuclides, and connects the second fluid channel connection part <NUM> to the purified sample collection container <NUM> in the process of extracting the nuclide of interest.

<FIG> is a view showing an embodiment of the fluid channel forming part of a nuclide separating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to <FIG>, the fluid channel forming part <NUM> is formed in a '⊏' shape and is implemented on a plate <NUM> in a shape in which a column may be arranged between the upper end and the lower end of one side. The first fluid channel connection part <NUM>, the second fluid channel connection part <NUM>, and the discharge selection valve <NUM> are disposed to be connected with the operational part <NUM>.

The operational part <NUM> includes a guide rail <NUM> provided in the vertical direction on the other side of the plate <NUM>, an upper operational body <NUM> disposed in a shape that may be raised and lowered from the top of the guide rail <NUM>, and a lower operational body <NUM> disposed in a shape that may be raised and lowered from the bottom of the guide rail <NUM>. In this case, the upper operational body <NUM> and the lower operational body <NUM> may include a servo motor.

The first fluid channel connection part <NUM> is coupled to a portion of the upper operational body <NUM> that extends to one side of the plate <NUM>, and the second fluid channel connection part <NUM> is coupled to a portion of the lower operational body <NUM> that extends to one side of the plate <NUM>. In addition, the discharge selection valve <NUM> may be coupled to the lower operational body <NUM> to be integrally operated with the lower operational body <NUM>.

When the upper operational body <NUM> descends and the lower operational body <NUM> rises, the first fluid channel connection part <NUM> and the second fluid channel connection part <NUM> are coupled to the upper and lower portions of the column, respectively, to connect the column, the first fluid channel <NUM>, and the second fluid channel <NUM>. In this connected state, the reagent or sample is supplied to the column, and optimization of the column, removal of interfering nuclides, extraction and washing of the nuclides of interest, and the like are performed.

When the upper operational body <NUM> rises and the lower operational body <NUM> descends, the first fluid channel connection part <NUM> and the second fluid channel connection part <NUM> are separated from the upper and lower portions of the column, respectively, to separate the column, the first fluid channel <NUM>, and the second fluid channel <NUM>. In this separated state, the fluid channel forming part <NUM> may be transferred to any random column disposed in the column arrangement part <NUM> by the transfer part <NUM>.

The main pump <NUM> supplies pressure such that the reagent or sample is introduced into the first fluid channel <NUM>, and the purified sample or waste is discharged from the column. The main pump <NUM> may be disposed on the first fluid channel <NUM>.

While the inflow selection valve <NUM> connects the first fluid channel <NUM> to the reagent supply part <NUM>, the main pump <NUM> supplies the reagent to the first fluid channel <NUM>, and while the inlet selection valve <NUM> connects the first fluid channel <NUM> to the sample supply part <NUM>, the main pump <NUM> supplies the sample to the first fluid channel <NUM>.

The transfer part <NUM> transfers a fluid channel forming part <NUM> such that the fluid channel forming part <NUM> may connect or disconnect the first fluid channel <NUM> and the second fluid channel <NUM> to or from any random column arranged in the column arrangement part <NUM>.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the transfer part <NUM> may transfer the fluid channel forming part <NUM> back and forth, and left and right while the fluid channel forming part <NUM> is separated from the first fluid channel <NUM> and the second fluid channel <NUM>. When the fluid channel forming part <NUM> is implemented in the same manner as in <FIG>, the transfer unit <NUM> may transfer the plate <NUM> of the fluid channel forming part <NUM> back and forth, and left and right through a ball screw method, a method of using a motor and a guide rail, or the like. That is, the transfer part <NUM> may be formed of a ball screw structure, a motor, a guide rail structure, or the like.

<FIG> is a view briefly showing the arrangement of columns and the transfer of the fluid channel forming part in a nuclide separating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to <FIG>, extraction of a nuclide of interest for one column C <NUM> is performed in the transfer unit <NUM>, and when the first fluid channel connection part <NUM> and the second fluid channel connection part <NUM> of the fluid channel forming part <NUM> are separated from the column C1, the fluid channel forming part <NUM> may be transferred along the X-axis or the Y-axis. Accordingly, the fluid channel forming part <NUM> may be transferred to one column C1 and a column C2 arranged adjacent to the X-axis direction or a column C3 arranged adjacent to the Y-axis direction, and the corresponding column C2 or C3 and the first fluid channel <NUM> and the second fluid channel <NUM> may be connected. Accordingly, continuous extraction for a plurality of columns may be efficiently performed.

The collection part <NUM> is a part for collecting a purified sample or waste discharged through the second fluid channel <NUM>. The collection part <NUM> includes a purified sample collection container <NUM> in which purified samples are collected and a waste collection container <NUM> in which wastes are collected.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the purified sample collection container <NUM> may be arranged to correspond one-to-one with the column disposed in the column arrangement part <NUM>. That is, the purified sample collection container <NUM> may be arranged in a tray-shaped purified sample collection part (not illustrated) having a purified sample collection container insertion hole at a position corresponding to the column position of the column arrangement part <NUM>. Through this arrangement, continuous separation of nuclides of interest for multiple samples may be performed more efficiently.

The washing solution supply part <NUM> supplies a washing solution to the washing solution container V of the sample supply part <NUM>. The washing solution supply part <NUM> includes a washing solution tank <NUM>, a washing solution supply fluid channel <NUM>, and a washing solution supply pump <NUM>.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the washing solution container V may include an inner container V1 and an outer container V2 surrounding the inner container V1. The inner container V1 is a portion in which the washing solution for washing the sample supply fluid channel <NUM>, the first fluid channel <NUM>, and the second fluid channel <NUM> is stored, and the outer container V2 is a portion in which the washing solution overflowing in the inner container V1 is stored.

On the premise that the washing solution container V is configured as above, the washing solution supply fluid channel <NUM> is formed as the inner container V1 of the washing solution container V in the washing solution tank <NUM>. That is, the washing solution in the washing solution tank <NUM> is supplied to the inner container V1 according to the operation of the washing solution supply pump <NUM>.

The residual washing solution discharge part <NUM> transfers the residual washing solution in the washing solution container V to the waste collection container <NUM>. Herein, the residual washing solution refers to a washing solution overflowing from the inner container V1 and remaining in the outer container V2.

After washing is performed once, when washing before extraction of the nuclide of interest for another sample is performed after the extraction of the nuclide of interest for one sample is performed, using the residual washing solution remaining during the previous washing may have a risk of contamination, and it is preferable to use a washing solution newly supplied from the washing solution tank <NUM>.

The residual washing solution discharge part <NUM> transfers the residual washing solution in the outer container V2 of the washing solution container V to the waste collection container <NUM> of the collection unit <NUM> to block the possibility of contamination during the next washing.

The residual washing solution discharge part <NUM> may include a washing solution discharge fluid channel <NUM> formed between the washing solution container V and the waste collection container <NUM>, and a residual washing solution discharge pump <NUM> disposed in the washing solution discharge fluid channel <NUM> to supply pressure to introduce the residual washing solution into the washing solution discharge fluid channel <NUM>.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the residual washing solution is discharged to the waste collection container <NUM> of the collection part <NUM> rather than a separate waste collection container. Accordingly, the size of the device may be reduced, and space efficiency may be secured.

The operational process of the nuclide separating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described as follows.

First, when the analysis of the first sample is started, the inflow selection valve <NUM> is connected to the sample supply part <NUM>, while the first fluid channel <NUM>, the column, and the second fluid channel <NUM> are connected by the fluid channel forming part <NUM>. In this case, the washing solution is supplied through the sample supply part <NUM> to wash the first fluid channel <NUM>, the main pump <NUM>, the column, the second fluid channel <NUM>, and the discharge selection valve <NUM>.

In the washing process, the washing solution in the washing solution tank <NUM> is supplied to the inner container V1 according to the operation of the washing solution supply pump <NUM>, and the residual washing solution in the outer container V2 is discharged through the washing solution discharge fluid channel <NUM> to the waste collection container <NUM> of the collection part <NUM>, according to the operation of the washing solution discharge pump <NUM>.

Meanwhile, at the end of the washing process, the needle <NUM> of the sample supply part <NUM> is transferred to the outside of the washing solution container V such that air is inflowed into the fluid channel to perform the drying of the fluid channel.

Next, the inlet selection valve <NUM> is connected to the reagent supply part <NUM>, and according to the operation of the main pump <NUM>, a reagent for optimizing the column, that is, a first reagent is supplied to the column, and waste discharged to the lower portion of the column is collected into the waste collection container <NUM> of the collection part <NUM>.

Subsequently, the inflow selection valve <NUM> is connected to the sample supply part <NUM>, and the sample is injected into the column according to the operation of the main pump <NUM>. In addition, the inlet selection valve <NUM> is connected to the reagent supply part <NUM> again, and according to the operation of the main pump <NUM>, one or more reagents for the removal of interfering nuclides are supplied to the column, and waste discharged to the bottom of the column is collected in the waste collection container <NUM> of the collection part <NUM>.

Afterwards, the sample supply part <NUM> supplies a reagent for separation of the nuclides of interest, and the purified sample is discharged to the bottom of the column according to the operation of the main pump <NUM>. In this case, the discharge selection valve <NUM> forms a fluid channel such that the purified sample is introduced into the purified sample collection container <NUM> of the collection part <NUM>.

Afterwards, the inflow selection valve <NUM> is connected to the sample supply part <NUM>, and again the washing of the fluid channel using the washing solution proceeds as described above.

Finally, after washing, while the fluid channel forming part <NUM> and the first fluid channel <NUM> are separated and the column and the second fluid channel <NUM> are separated, the fluid channel forming part <NUM> is transferred to a different column by the transfer part <NUM>. After the fluid channel forming part <NUM> is transferred to another column, the first fluid channel <NUM>, the other column, and the second fluid channel <NUM> are connected by the fluid channel forming unit <NUM>, and it may proceed from the optimization of columns.

As described above, the nuclide separating device 1a according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention forms or releases a fluid channel by connecting or disconnecting the upper and lower portions of the column to or from other components while the first fluid channel connection part <NUM> and the second fluid channel connection part <NUM> are operated. In addition, the transfer part <NUM> transfers the fluid channel forming part <NUM> while the fluid channel is released. Accordingly, extraction may be continuously performed by connecting a random column to the sample and connecting another column to the sample after extraction is completed.

Hereinafter, a nuclide separating device 1b according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate perspective views of a nuclide separating device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The nuclide separating device 1b according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is to be used in the analysis of nuclides required for the evaluation of radioactive properties of radioactive waste and decommissioned waste, as in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, and in particular, it may be used for the chemical separation of alpha/beta nuclides.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the nuclide separating device 1b according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a column holding part <NUM> in which a column <NUM> is disposed, a collection tube holding part <NUM> in which a collection tube <NUM> is disposed, a waste discharge part <NUM>, a separation part <NUM>, a connection part <NUM>, and a transfer part <NUM>.

The column <NUM> is a member through which reagents and samples are introduced. The column <NUM> is filled with resin, and reagents and samples are introduced therein to separate the purified sample including the nuclides of interest and other wastes. Samples and reagents may be stored in separate sample tanks (not illustrated) and reagent tanks (not illustrated), respectively, and these may be transferred by a pump (not illustrated) and introduced into the column <NUM>.

A plurality of columns <NUM> are disposed in the column holding part <NUM>. The column holding part <NUM> allows a plurality of columns <NUM> to be simultaneously disposed such that separation of a plurality of samples may be continuously performed. The column holding part <NUM> may be formed such that a plurality of columns <NUM> are arranged in an annular shape. Specifically, the column holding part <NUM> may include any one of a disc-shaped member, an annular member, and a saw-toothed wheel-shaped member, and may be configured to be fixed by inserting the column <NUM> at regular intervals along the rim thereof. For example, the column holding part <NUM> may be configured such that <NUM> columns are simultaneously disposed along the edge thereof.

Meanwhile, the column holding part <NUM> may be integrally connected to the collection tube holding part <NUM> through a support part <NUM>. The column holding part <NUM> may be integrally moved with the collection tube holding part <NUM> by being connected to the collection tube holding part <NUM> through the support part <NUM>.

The collection tube <NUM> is a container in which the purified sample that has passed through the column <NUM>, in other words, the purified sample extracted from the column <NUM> is collected. The collection tube <NUM> is disposed corresponding to the lower portion of each column <NUM> disposed in the column holding part <NUM>. That is, the collection tube <NUM> is disposed in a one-to-one correspondence to the lower portion of each column <NUM> such that the purified sample extracted from one column <NUM> may be collected from the lower portion thereof.

The collection tube holding part <NUM> is arranged to be spaced apart from the lower portion of the column holding unit <NUM> such that the collection tube <NUM> is disposed corresponding to the lower portion of each column <NUM> disposed in the column holding unit <NUM>. In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the collection tube holding part <NUM> may be configured such that the collection tube <NUM> corresponding to each column <NUM> is arranged in an annular shape, similar to the column holding part <NUM>. For example, when the column holding part <NUM> is configured to simultaneously arrange <NUM> columns <NUM> in an annular shape, the collection tube holding part <NUM> correspondingly has <NUM> collection tubes <NUM> arranged in an annular shape.

The collection tube holding part <NUM> may include any one of a disc-shaped member, an annular member, and a saw-toothed wheel-shaped member. Looking more specifically, the collection tube holding part <NUM> may include a disc-shaped upper plate <NUM> supporting the upper portion of the collection tube <NUM> and a lower plate <NUM> in the form of a saw-toothed wheel supporting the lower end of the collection tube <NUM>.

As described above, the collection tube holding part <NUM> may be integrally connected to the column holding part <NUM> through the support part <NUM>. In this case, the support part <NUM> may include a column member for connecting the lower plate <NUM> of the collection tube holding part <NUM> to the upper plate <NUM>, and a column member for connecting the upper plate <NUM> of the collection tube holding part <NUM> to the column holding part <NUM>, and a plurality of these may be provided at regular intervals for stable coupling between the column holding part <NUM> and the collection tube holding part <NUM>.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the centers of the column holding part <NUM> and the collection tube holding part <NUM> are disposed on the same axis, and the column holding part <NUM> and the collection tube holding part <NUM> have a form that may be rotated integrally around the axis.

The waste discharge part <NUM> discharges waste discharged from the column <NUM> to the outside. Separation of the purified sample and waste is performed in the column <NUM>, and the purified sample is collected in the collection tube <NUM>, and the waste is discharged to the outside through the waste discharge part <NUM>. In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the waste discharge part <NUM> may be formed of a discharge pipe connected to the valve <NUM> of the separation part <NUM>, and the waste discharge part <NUM> may be connected to a waste storage tank (not illustrated).

The separation part <NUM> may be disposed between the column holding part <NUM> and the collection tube holding part <NUM>, and when connected to the column <NUM> and the collection tube <NUM>, the purified sample is introduced into the collection tube <NUM>, and the waste is separated to be discharged to the waste discharge part <NUM>. The separation part <NUM> includes a fluid channel structure <NUM> and a valve <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of the fluid channel structure of a separation part of a nuclide separating device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Referring to <FIG>, the fluid channel structure <NUM> has a rectangular block shape as a whole. The fluid channel structure <NUM> includes a column connection part <NUM>, a first fluid channel <NUM>, a second fluid channel <NUM>, and a collection tube connection part <NUM>. The column connection part <NUM> is formed on the upper portion of the fluid channel structure <NUM> and has a hole shape that may be connected to the lower portion of the column <NUM>. The first fluid channel <NUM> is a fluid channel formed toward the valve <NUM> from the column connection part <NUM> such that the purified sample or waste introduced through the column connection part <NUM> may be transferred to the valve <NUM>. In addition, the second fluid channel <NUM> is a fluid channel formed between the valve <NUM> and the collection tube connection part <NUM> such that the purified sample passing through the valve <NUM> may be introduced into the collection tube <NUM>. Meanwhile, the collection tube connection part <NUM> is formed at the lower portion of the fluid channel structure <NUM>, and has a shape of a tube that may be connected to the upper portion of the collection tube <NUM>. The collection tube connection part <NUM> communicates with the second fluid channel <NUM>.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the fluid channel structure <NUM> is connected to a frame F and is installed on a plate <NUM> disposed between the column holding part <NUM> and the collection tube holding part <NUM>. More specifically, the fluid channel structure <NUM> is provided with through holes <NUM> penetrated in the vertical direction at each corner, and a guide pin member <NUM> coupled to the plate <NUM> is inserted into each through hole <NUM>. Through this, the fluid channel structure <NUM> has a shape in which sliding is possible in the vertical direction on the plate <NUM>.

The valve <NUM> separates the purified sample and waste introduced from the column <NUM> through the first fluid channel <NUM> when the fluid channel structure <NUM> is connected to the column <NUM> and the collection tube <NUM>, but the purified sample is sent to the collection tube <NUM> through the second fluid channel <NUM>, and the waste is discharged to the waste discharge unit <NUM>. That is, the valve <NUM> is connected to the first fluid channel <NUM> serving as an input fluid channel, the second fluid channel <NUM> serving as an output fluid channel, and the waste discharge part <NUM>, and when the fluid introduced through the first fluid channel <NUM> is a purified sample, a fluid channel is formed through the second fluid channel <NUM>, and when the fluid introduced through the first fluid channel <NUM> is waste, a fluid channel is formed to the waste discharge part <NUM>.

The connection part <NUM> allows connection between the column <NUM>, the separation part <NUM>, and the collection tube <NUM> for separation, and when separation is completed, it releases the connection between the column <NUM>, the separation part <NUM>, and the collection tube <NUM>. In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the connection part <NUM> raises the collection tube <NUM> to make a connection between the fluid channel structure <NUM>, the column <NUM>, and the collection tube <NUM>, and by lowering the collection tube <NUM>, it allows the connection between the fluid channel structure <NUM>, the column <NUM>, and the collection tube <NUM> to be released.

Referring to <FIG>, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the connection part <NUM> includes an actuator <NUM>, a power transmission part <NUM>, a ball screw part <NUM>, and a lifting part <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> may be formed of a servo motor, and the power transmission part <NUM> may transmit a rotational operating force to a ball screw part <NUM> through pulleys and belts. In addition, the ball screw part <NUM> includes a screw rotating by the power transmitted through the power transmission part <NUM>, and a ball nut coupled to the screw and linearly moving according to the rotation of the screw, but the ball nut may be disposed to move along the vertical direction. Meanwhile, the lifting part <NUM> is connected to the ball screw part <NUM> and is disposed to rise or descend along the vertical direction, and it has a form capable of gripping the collection tube <NUM>.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the lifting part <NUM> may include a gripping part <NUM> for gripping the collection tube <NUM> and an actuator <NUM> that transmits power to the gripping part <NUM>. In this case, the gripping part <NUM> is formed in a shape that may pass through a space between the saw teeth of the lower plate <NUM> in the form of a saw-toothed wheel that supports the lower end of the collection tube <NUM>.

When the separation of one column (<NUM>) is completed such that the separation of a plurality of samples is performed continuously, the transfer part <NUM> transfers the other column <NUM> and the collection tube <NUM> disposed corresponding thereto to a position connectable to the separation unit <NUM>. The transfer part <NUM> may be configured to rotate the collection tube holding part <NUM> and the column holding part <NUM> integrally connected together, and may include an actuator disposed below the collection tube holding part <NUM>.

As described above, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the centers of the column holding part <NUM> and the collection tube holding part <NUM> are disposed on the same axis, and the transfer part <NUM> rotates the collection tube holding part <NUM> about the axis, and accordingly, the column holding part <NUM> may rotate integrally with the collection tube holding part <NUM> about the axis.

<FIG> and <FIG> are views showing the operational process of a nuclide separating device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the operational process of the nuclide separating device 1b according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described as follows.

First, a process in which the connection between the column <NUM>, the separation part <NUM> and the collection tube <NUM> is made in the nuclide separating device 1b will be described with reference to <FIG>.

The lifting part <NUM> of the connection part <NUM> grips the collection tube <NUM> while the column <NUM> to be separated and the collection tube <NUM> corresponding thereto are disposed on the upper and lower portions, respectively, and as the actuator <NUM> of the connection part <NUM> rotates in one direction, the lifting part <NUM> is raised. As a result, the open top of the collection tube <NUM> is coupled to a collection tube coupling part <NUM> formed at the bottom of a fluid channel structure <NUM> of a separation part <NUM>, and at the same time, the lower portion of the column <NUM> is inserted into the column coupling part <NUM> formed on the upper portion of the fluid channel structure <NUM>. In this case, the fluid channel structure <NUM> may also be pushed up as the collection tube <NUM> is raised such that the collection tube <NUM>, the fluid channel structure <NUM>, and the column <NUM> may be coupled.

Simultaneously or sequentially, samples and reagents may be introduced through the upper portion of the column <NUM>. The inflow of the sample and the reagent into the column <NUM> is made through an inlet part <NUM>, and as shown in <FIG>, the inlet part <NUM> may include an actuator <NUM>, a power transmission part <NUM>, a ball screw part <NUM>, and an injection part <NUM>.

The actuator <NUM> may be formed of a servo motor, and the power transmission part <NUM> may transmit a rotational operating force to a ball screw part <NUM> through pulleys and belts. In addition, the ball screw part <NUM> includes a screw rotating by the power transmitted through the power transmission part <NUM>, and a ball nut coupled to the screw and linearly moving according to the rotation of the screw, but the ball nut may be disposed to move along the vertical direction. Meanwhile, the injection part <NUM> is connected to the ball screw part <NUM> and is disposed to rise or descend along the vertical direction, and may be connected to a fluid channel (not illustrated) through which a sample and a reagent are introduced.

As the actuator <NUM> rotates in one direction, the injection part <NUM> descends, and accordingly, the injection part <NUM> is coupled to the upper portion of the column <NUM>. In addition, the coupling between the column <NUM> and the fluid channel structure <NUM> of the separation part <NUM> is more stably performed while the column <NUM> is pressed downward as the injection part <NUM> descends.

Next, a process in which the connection between the column <NUM>, the separation part <NUM>, and the collection tube <NUM> is released in the nuclide separating device 1b will be described with reference to <FIG>.

When the separation for one column <NUM> is completed, the lifting portion <NUM> is lowered as the actuator <NUM> of the connection part <NUM> rotates in the other direction. As a result, the coupling of the collection tube <NUM> and the collection tube coupling portion <NUM> is released, and at the same time, the lower portion of the column <NUM> is also detached from the column coupling portion <NUM> formed on the upper portion of the fluid channel structure <NUM>. In this case, the fluid channel structure <NUM> is also lowered by its own weight as the collection tube <NUM> descends, and the coupling of the collection tube <NUM>, the fluid channel structure <NUM>, and the column <NUM> is released.

In this case, as shown in <FIG>, the lifting part <NUM> descends to the bottom of the lower plate <NUM> of the collection tube holding part <NUM>. Accordingly, the collection tube holding part <NUM> and the column holding part <NUM> may be rotated by the transfer part <NUM>, and as a result, separation for the next column <NUM> is prepared.

Meanwhile, simultaneously or sequentially, as the actuator of the inflow part <NUM> rotates in the other direction, the injection part <NUM> is also spaced apart from the upper portion of the column <NUM>, and the coupling between the injection part <NUM> and the column <NUM> is also released.

The nuclide separating device 1b according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention may form or release a fluid channel by connecting or disconnecting different configurations of the upper and lower portions of the column through the inlet portion <NUM> disposed at the upper portion of the column and the connection part <NUM> disposed at the lower portion of the column. More specifically, the connection part <NUM> connects or releases the separation part <NUM> and the lower portion of the column, and the inlet part <NUM> is connected to the upper portion of the column in a descending state such that a reagent or sample is injected into the column, and in a rising state, it is separated from the top of the column. Accordingly, after transferring the column, in which extraction is completed, connected to the sample from the fluid channel forming position, another column in which new extraction proceeds may be disposed at the fluid channel forming position.

Claim 1:
A nuclide separating device, comprising:
a column arrangement part (<NUM>) in which a plurality of columns (C<NUM> - CN) are arranged;
a first fluid channel (<NUM>) through which a reagent or sample to be introduced into each of the columns arranged in the column arrangement part is transferred;
a second fluid channel (<NUM>) through which a purified sample or waste discharged from the column is delivered to a collection part;
a fluid channel forming part (<NUM>) for connecting or disconnecting the first fluid channel (<NUM>) and the second fluid channel (<NUM>) to or from a random column arranged in the column arrangement part (<NUM>);
a main pump (<NUM>) for supplying pressure to introduce the reagent or the sample into the first fluid channel (<NUM>) and to discharge the purified sample or waste from the column; and
a transfer part (<NUM>) for transferring the fluid channel forming part (<NUM>) so that the fluid channel forming part (<NUM>) can connect or disconnect the first fluid channel (<NUM>) and the second fluid channel (<NUM>) to or from another random column arranged in the column arrangement part
characterized in that
the nuclide separating device is configured such that:
the fluid channel forming part (<NUM>) connects one column of the plurality of columns to the first fluid channel (<NUM>) and the second fluid channel (<NUM>),
the transfer part (<NUM>) transfers the fluid channel forming part (<NUM>) after extraction of the one column is completed, and
the fluid channel forming part (<NUM>) connects another one of the plurality of columns to the first fluid channel and the second fluid channel.