New Analytical Intelligence Concept —Support for Automating Analytical Operations

Significance of the Topic

Modern analytical laboratories face the dual challenge of maximizing throughput while preserving data integrity. Automation of liquid chromatography workflows reduces human error and increases uptime, but variability in user expertise and instrument handling remains a critical obstacle. The concept of Analytical Intelligence addresses this gap by embedding expert-level decision making into system software and hardware, ensuring reliable results regardless of operator experience.

Objectives and Study Overview

This report introduces Analytical Intelligence features in the Shimadzu Nexera series ultra-high performance liquid chromatographs. It outlines how automated functions simulate skilled operators to manage column conditioning, solvent delivery, data acquisition, and post-run analysis. The goal is to demonstrate how integrated software and instrument modules can streamline workflows and enhance data quality.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Nexera series incorporates multiple modules and software tools to realize Analytical Intelligence:

• Auto-startup and FlowPilot for gradual column equilibration
• MPM-40 mobile phase monitor coupled with MPMChecker software
• Column management device (CMD) and LabSolutions DB/CS for tracking usage history
• Auto-diagnostics and auto-recovery routines in solvent delivery pumps
• LabSolutions i-PeakFinder algorithm for fully automated peak integration
• i-PDeA II chemometric software using PDA detector data for peak deconvolution

Main Results and Discussion

Implementation of these functions demonstrated:

• Consistent column conditioning without manual intervention, preventing pressure spikes and extending column lifespan.
• Real-time mobile phase level monitoring to avoid run interruptions and sample loss.
• Centralized column performance tracking to detect pressure changes and schedule maintenance.
• Automatic detection and removal of bubbles in flow channels, maintaining stable pressure and retention times.
• High-accuracy peak integration across complex chromatograms, reducing operator variability.
• Successful resolution of coeluting or overlapping peaks using PDA-based multivariate deconvolution.

Benefits and Practical Implementation

By embedding expert rules in software, Analytical Intelligence reduces dependence on specialized training and minimizes system downtime. Laboratories benefit from consistent quantitative accuracy, streamlined maintenance planning, and accelerated data processing. This integrated approach enhances overall operational efficiency and reliability.

Future Trends and Applications

Ongoing development may include machine-learning algorithms for predictive maintenance, cloud-based performance analytics, and expanded compatibility with third-party modules. Such advances will further democratize expert knowledge, enabling adaptive workflows and remote monitoring across multiple instruments.

Conclusion

Analytical Intelligence in the Shimadzu Nexera series represents a paradigm shift in automating chromatographic analysis. By simulating expert decision making, these features ensure robust, high-quality data generation and operational consistency, addressing the growing skills gap in analytical laboratories.

References

• Shimadzu Technical Report C190-E227: Auto-startup and FlowPilot
• Shimadzu Technical Report C190-E226: Mobile Phase Monitoring
• Shimadzu Technical Report C190-E225: Auto-Diagnostics and Auto-Recovery
• Shimadzu Technical Report C191-E044 & C190-E243: i-PeakFinder
• Shimadzu Technical Report C191-0078: i-PDeA II Deconvolution