Simulation techniques in analytical chemistry. Microcomputer-controlled simulation of the chromatographie process with an analogue computer

An analogue/digital hybrid interface is presented that allows the support of simulations on an analogue computer EAI 380 by a microcomputer PDP 11/34. On this simulation system the peak spreading process of a Chromatographie column was implemented as an example for a simulation of a dynamic process in analytical chemistry. To implement the Chromatographie mass balance equations on the analogue part of the simulation system, only one hardwired stage of a cascade of reactors is necessary. The output values of one analogue simulation step were stored by the microcomputer as intermediate results and were given back as input values during the next analogue simulation step. The simulation process can be seen on a screen and is easily modified by online variation of the simulation parameters.