Patent ID: 7318900

Claim:
A method for analyzing a sample of interest using chromatography, the sample including fractions, the method comprising: providing a fluid path through which the sample moves during a chromatography run, the chromatography run having a first expiration time; separating the fractions of the sample to allow the fractions of the sample to move through the fluid path at different rates; moving the fractions of the sample along the fluid path; selectively collecting fractions of the sample according to fraction collecting software, the act of selectively collecting fractions including detecting a positive change in slope corresponding to a peak indicative of a fraction, calculating a volume of fluid in the fluid path prior to the peak as a result of detecting the positive change in slope, and collecting a delay volume in the fluid path; and extending the chromatography run to a second expiration time when the first expiration time occurs during collection of a fraction, the second expiration time being later than the first expiration time.