Fluid device and fluid control system

A fluid device includes a substrate and a gas-liquid separating filter, the substrate has a flow path through which a solution flows, a reservoir, in which the solution is accommodated, connected to the flow path, an injection hole configured to connect the reservoir to the outside, and an air introduction hole branched off from the injection hole and connected to the outside, and the gas-liquid separating filter is disposed in a path of the air introduction hole, allows passage of a gas flowing through the air introduction hole, and prevents passage of a liquid flowing through the air introduction hole.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a 35 USC 371 national stage entry of International Patent Application No. PCT/JP2017/047282, filed Dec. 28, 2017.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a fluid device and a solution supply system.

BACKGROUND ART

In recent years, development of micro-total analysis systems (μ-TAS) aiming at high speed, high efficiency and integration of tests in the in-vitro diagnostic field and ultra-miniaturization of testing equipment has attracted attention, and active research thereon is underway worldwide.

μ-TAS is advantageous in comparison with testing equipment in the related art in that measurement and analysis are possible using a small amount of sample, portability is possible, disposal with low costs is possible, and the like.

Further, this method has been attracting attention as highly useful when expensive reagents are used or when small amounts of multiple specimens are tested.

As a component in μ-TAS, a device including a flow path and a pump disposed on the flow path has been reported (Non-Patent Literature 1). In such a device, since the pump is operated when a plurality of solutions have been injected into the flow path, the plurality of solutions are mixed in the flow path.

CITATION LIST

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

According to a first embodiment, there is provided a fluid device including: a substrate and a gas-liquid separating filter, wherein the substrate is provided with: a flow path through which a solution flows; a reservoir, in which the solution is accommodated, and which is connected to the flow path; an injection hole configured to connect the reservoir to the outside; and an air introduction hole branching off from the injection hole and connected to the outside, wherein the gas-liquid separating filter is disposed partway along a path of the air introduction hole, allows passage of a gas flowing through the air introduction hole, and inhibits passage of a liquid flowing through the air introduction hole.

According to a second embodiment, there is provided a solution supply system including: the fluid device according to the first embodiment; and a negative pressure applying device configured to make the inside of the flow path have a negative pressure, wherein a solution previously filled into the reservoir is moved to the flow path from the reservoir.

According to a third embodiment, there is provided a solution supply system including: the fluid device according to the first embodiment; and a positive pressure applying device configured to apply a positive pressure to the reservoir via the air introduction hole, wherein the solution previously filled into the reservoir is moved to the flow path from the reservoir.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, embodiments of a fluid device, a reservoir supply system and a solution supply system will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Further, in the drawings used in the following description, features may be enlarged for convenience in order to understand the features easier, and dimensional ratios of components may not be the same as actual ones.

First Embodiment

Fluid Device

FIG. 1is a front view of a fluid device1of a first embodiment.FIG. 2is a plan view schematically showing the fluid device1. InFIG. 2, a transparent upper plate6is shown in a state in which respective parts disposed therebelow are seen therethrough.

The fluid device1of the embodiment includes a device configured to detect a sample material that is a detection target included in a specimen sample using an immunological reaction, an enzyme reaction, and the like. The sample material is a biomolecule such as a nucleic acid, DNA, RNA, a peptide, a protein, extracellular endoplasmic reticulum, or the like.

As shown inFIG. 2, the fluid device1includes a substrate5, a gas-liquid separating filter3(not shown inFIG. 2), an injection hole closing film (a film)33(not shown inFIG. 2) and a plurality of valves V, Vi and Vo.

As shown inFIG. 1, the substrate5has an upper plate (a first base plate)6, a lower plate (a third base plate)8, and a base plate (a second base plate)9. The upper plate6, the lower plate8and the base plate9of the embodiment are formed of a resin material. The resin material that forms the upper plate6, the lower plate8and the base plate9may be exemplified by polypropylene, polycarbonate, or the like. In addition, in the embodiment, the upper plate6and the lower plate8are formed of a transparent material. Further, the materials that form the upper plate6, the lower plate8and the base plate9are not limited.

In the following description, the upper plate (for example, a lid section, an upper section or a lower section of a flow path, an upper surface or a bottom surface of the flow path)6, the lower plate (for example, a lid section, an upper section or a lower section of the flow path, an upper surface or a bottom surface of the flow path)8and the base plate9are disposed along horizontal planes, the upper plate6is disposed above the base plate9, and the lower plate8is disposed below the base plate9. However, this merely defines a horizontal direction and an upward/downward direction for convenience of explanation, and does not limit the orientation when the fluid device1according to the embodiment is used.

The upper plate6, the base plate9and the lower plate8are plate members extending in the horizontal direction. The upper plate6, the base plate9and the lower plate8are stacked in sequence in the upward/downward direction. That is, the base plate9is disposed below the upper plate6and stacked on the upper plate6. In addition, the lower plate8is stacked on the base plate9on a surface opposite to the upper plate6(a lower surface9a).

Further, in the following description, a direction in which the upper plate6, the base plate9and the lower plate8are stacked is simply referred to as a stacking direction. In the embodiment, the stacking direction is the upward/downward direction.

FIG. 3is a cross-sectional view of the fluid device1along line inFIG. 2.

As shown inFIG. 3, the upper plate6has an upper surface6band a lower surface6a. The base plate9has an upper surface9band the lower surface9a. Similarly, the lower plate8has an upper surface8band a lower surface8a.

The lower surface6aof the upper plate6faces and comes in contact with the upper surface9bof the base plate9in the stacking direction. The lower surface6aof the upper plate6and the upper surface9bof the base plate9are joined to each other by a joining means such as adhesion or the like. The lower surface6aof the upper plate6and the upper surface9bof the base plate9constitute a first boundary surface (a first joining surface)61. That is, the upper plate6and the base plate9are joined by the first boundary surface61.

Similarly, the upper surface8bof the lower plate8faces and comes in contact with the lower surface9aof the base plate9in the stacking direction. The upper surface8bof the lower plate8and the lower surface9aof the base plate9are joined to each other by a joining means such as adhesion or the like. The upper surface8bof the lower plate8and the lower surface9aof the base plate9constitute a second boundary surface (a second joining surface)62. That is, the base plate9and the lower plate8are joined by the second boundary surface62.

The base plate9includes a reservoir layer19B on the side of the lower surface9a. A plurality of reservoirs29are provided on the reservoir layer19B. In addition, the base plate9includes a reaction layer19A on the side of the upper surface9b. A flow path11and a waste liquid tank7are provided on the reaction layer19A. That is, the plurality of reservoirs29, the flow path11and the waste liquid tank7are provided on the base plate9.

As shown inFIG. 2, when seen in the stacking direction, at least a part of the flow path11and at least a part of the reservoirs29are disposed to overlap each other. According to the embodiment, since the flow path11and the reservoirs29are disposed on the side of the upper surface9band the side of the lower surface9aof the base plate9, respectively, when seen in the stacking direction, the flow path11and the reservoirs29can be disposed to overlap each other. Accordingly, the fluid device1can be reduced in size.

As shown inFIG. 3, a plurality of groove sections21are formed in the lower surface9aof the base plate9. The groove sections21can also be expressed as linear cavities. Bottom surfaces of the plurality of groove sections21are disposed on substantially the same plane. That is, depths of the plurality of groove sections21are substantially the same as each other. Widths of the groove sections21in the longitudinal direction are almost uniform. In addition, widths of the plurality of groove sections21are substantially the same as each other.

The groove sections21have openings that open downward and are covered by the lower plate8. The reservoirs29are formed in a space surrounded by the groove sections21and the lower plate8. Accordingly, the reservoirs29are disposed between the base plate9and the lower plate8.

The reservoirs29are spaces formed in tube shapes or cylindrical shapes surrounded by inner wall surfaces of the groove sections21formed in the lower surface9aof the base plate9and the lower plate8. A plurality of (more specifically, three) reservoirs29are formed on the substrate5of the embodiment. Solutions are accommodated in the reservoirs29.

Further, in the embodiment, the case in which the reservoirs29are configured by forming the groove sections21in the base plate9and covering the openings of the groove sections21using the lower plate8has been described. However, the reservoirs29may be configured by covering the openings of the groove section formed in the lower plate8using the base plate9.

The plurality of reservoirs29accommodate solutions independently from each other. The reservoirs29supply the accommodated solutions to the flow path11. The reservoirs29are flow path type reservoirs. Accordingly, in each of the reservoirs29, a length in a direction in which the solution flows toward the flow path11is greater than a width perpendicular to the length. In addition, in each of the reservoirs29, a length in the direction in which the solution flows toward the flow path11is preferably greater than a depth perpendicular to the length and the width. Further, the size of the width in the reservoir29is preferably a size at which bubbles do not move over the solution.

In the embodiment, the widths of the plurality of reservoirs29are substantially the same as each other, for example, 1.5 mm. In addition, the depths of the plurality of reservoirs29are substantially the same as each other, for example, 1.5 mm. Shapes of flow path cross sections of the plurality of reservoirs29are exemplarily rectangular shapes. Capacities of the reservoirs29are set according to volumes of the accommodated solutions. For example, the lengths of the reservoirs29are set according to volumes of the accommodated solutions.

Further, these widths and depths of the reservoirs29are exemplary examples, and can be arbitrarily set to several μm to hundreds mm, for example, 1 μm to 999 mm or 0.01 μm or more and 100 mm or less, or the like, according to the size of the fluid device (the micro fluid device or the like)1.

In addition, in the embodiment, while the configuration in which the plurality of reservoirs29have the same width and the same depth has been described as exemplary examples, there is no limitation thereto. The widths and depths of the plurality of reservoirs may be set to, for example, different values according to flow characteristics of the accommodated solutions. For example, when the solutions are introduced into the flow path by negative pressure suction from the plurality of reservoirs at the same time, the widths and depths may be set according to flow characteristics (flow resistances or the like) of the solutions for the reservoirs such that the different solutions are introduced into the flow path at the same timing.

As shown inFIG. 2, the reservoirs29are formed in a meander shape extending in a predetermined direction with linear cavities being repeated leftward and rightward. The reservoirs29are formed in a meander shape including a plurality of (inFIG. 4, five) first straight sections29adisposed parallel to a predetermined direction (inFIG. 4, in the leftward/rightward direction), and second straight sections29bin which connecting places of end portions of neighboring first straight sections29aare repeatedly connected to each other on one end sides and the other end sides of the first straight sections29a.

As shown inFIG. 3, supply holes39passing through in the stacking direction are formed in the base plate9. The supply holes39connect the reservoirs29and the flow path11. The solutions stored in the reservoirs29are supplied to the flow path11via the supply holes39. That is, the reservoirs29are connected to the flow path11via the supply holes39.

A plurality of groove sections14are formed in the upper surface9bof the base plate9. The groove sections14can be expressed as linear cavities. The groove sections14have openings that open upward and are covered by the upper plate6. The flow path11is formed in the space surrounded by the groove sections14and the upper plate6. Accordingly, the flow path11is disposed between the base plate9and the upper plate6. The solutions flow to the flow path11.

Further, in the embodiment, the case in which the flow path11is configured by forming the groove sections14in the base plate9and covering the openings of the groove sections14using the upper plate6has been described. However, the flow path11may be configured by covering the openings of the groove sections formed in the upper plate6using the base plate9.

As shown inFIG. 2, the flow path11includes a circulation flow path10, a plurality of (in the example ofFIG. 2, three) introduction flow paths12, and a plurality of (in the example ofFIG. 2, three) discharge flow paths13. The solutions are introduced into the flow path11from the reservoirs29.

The circulation flow path10is configured in a loop shape when seen in the stacking direction. A plurality of (in the example ofFIG. 2, three) quantitative valves V are provided in the middle of the circulation flow path10. The plurality of quantitative valves V divide the circulation flow path10into a plurality of quantitative divisions18. The plurality of quantitative valves V are disposed such that the divisions divided by the quantitative valves have predetermined volumes.

The introduction flow paths12are flow paths configured to introduce solutions into the quantitative divisions18of the circulation flow path10. The introduction flow paths12are provided in the quantitative divisions18of the circulation flow path10, respectively. The introduction flow paths12are connected to the supply holes39on one end side. In addition, the introduction flow paths12are connected to the circulation flow path10on the other end side. The introduction flow paths12are connected to the circulation flow path10in the vicinity of the quantitative valves V of the quantitative divisions18.

The introduction flow paths12and the reservoirs29partially overlap each other when seen in the stacking direction, and are connected to each other via the supply holes39disposed on the overlapping portion. That is, the supply holes39are disposed in the portion in which the flow path11and the reservoirs29overlap each other in the stacking direction and extend in the stacking direction. Accordingly, the flow path11and the reservoirs29disposed on different surfaces of the base plate9can be connected over the shortest distance. As a result, pressure loss when the solutions are introduced into the flow path11from the reservoirs29can be reduced, and the solutions can be efficiently and quickly introduced into the flow path11from the reservoirs29.

The discharge flow paths13are flow paths configured to discharge the solutions in the quantitative divisions18of the circulation flow path10to the waste liquid tank7. The discharge flow paths13are provided in the quantitative divisions18of the circulation flow path10, respectively. The discharge flow paths13are connected to the waste liquid tank7on one end side. In addition, the discharge flow paths13are connected to the circulation flow path10on the other end side. The discharge flow paths13are connected to the circulation flow path10in the vicinity of the quantitative valves V of the quantitative divisions18. The quantitative divisions18are connected to the introduction flow paths12on one end side in the lengthwise direction, and connected to the discharge flow paths13on the other end side.

The introduction valves Vi are disposed in the middle of the introduction flow paths12. Similarly, the waste liquid valves Vo are disposed in the middle of the discharge flow paths13. Here, structures of the introduction valves Vi, the waste liquid valves Vo and the quantitative valves V will be described with reference toFIG. 3. Further, here, while the introduction valves Vi will be described on behalf of other valves, the other valves (the waste liquid valves Vo and the quantitative valves V) also have the same structure.

The introduction valves Vi are fixed to the upper plate6. A plurality of valve holding holes34are formed in the upper plate6. The upper plate6holds the introduction valves Vi in the valve holding holes34. The introduction valves Vi are formed of an elastic material. A rubber, an elastomer resin, or the like are exemplary examples of the elastic material that can be employed in the introduction valves Vi. The upper plate6and the introduction valves Vi are integrally formed of different materials. In addition, the upper plate6and the introduction valves Vi are molded bodies that are integrally formed through two color molding, injection molding, insert molding, or the like.

A hemispherical cavity40is provided in the flow path11directly under the introduction valves Vi. The introduction valves Vi are elastically deformed downward and abut the cavity40to close the flow path11. In addition, the introduction valves Vi are separated from the cavity40to open the flow path11.

The waste liquid tank7is provided on the substrate5in order to allow discarding of the solutions in the flow path11. The waste liquid tank7is connected to the flow path11. As shown inFIG. 2, the waste liquid tank7is disposed in an internal region of the circulation flow path10. Accordingly, the fluid device1can be reduced in size. In addition, as shown inFIG. 3, the waste liquid tank7is formed in a space surrounded by an inner wall surface of a concave section7aprovided on the side of the upper surface9bof the base plate9and the upper plate6configured to cover the opening directed to a side above the concave section7a.

The waste liquid tank7opens to the outside via an air hole (a device connecting hole)35. The air hole35is formed in the upper plate6. The air hole35is disposed directly above the waste liquid tank7. The air hole35connects the waste liquid tank7to the outside. As described below, for example, a suction device (a negative pressure applying device)56can be connected to the air hole35.

A first through-hole37and a second through-hole31passing through in the stacking direction are formed in the upper plate6. Meanwhile, a third through-hole38passing through in the stacking direction and connected to the first through-hole37is formed in the base plate9. In addition, a connecting groove30ais formed in the upper surface9bof the base plate9. The connecting groove30aopens upward. One end of the connecting groove30aoverlaps the first through-hole37when seen in the stacking direction, and the other end of a connecting groove30boverlaps the second through-hole31.

The first through-hole37and the third through-hole38overlap and are made to communicate with each other when seen in the stacking direction. The first through-hole37and the third through-hole38constitute injection holes32. In addition, the first through-hole37constitutes an opening of the injection holes32.

The injection hole32is connected to the reservoir29. That is, the injection hole32connects the reservoir29to the outside. The reservoir29is filled with the solutions via the injection hole32. One injection hole32is provided with respect to each reservoir29. That is, the same number of injection holes32are formed in the substrate5as the number of reservoirs29. The injection hole32is connected to one ends of the reservoir29in the lengthwise direction. Further, the supply hole39is connected to the other ends of the reservoir29in the lengthwise direction.

Upper openings of the injection holes32are closed by the injection hole closing film (the film)33. The injection hole closing film33is adhered to the upper surface6bof the upper plate6. The injection hole closing film33is adhered after the solutions are injected into the reservoirs29via the injection holes32.

The second through-hole31is disposed adjacent to the first through-hole37when seen in the stacking direction. A cross-sectional shape of the second through-hole31in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction is a circular shape. The second through-hole31extends in a tapered shape having a cross-sectional area that reduces in size from top to bottom (i.e., toward the base plate9).

The connecting groove30acan also be expressed as a linear cavity. The connecting groove30ahas an opening that opens upward and is covered by the upper plate6. A connecting section30is configured in the space surrounded by the connecting groove30aand the upper plate6. Accordingly, the connecting section30is disposed between the base plate9and the upper plate6. In other words, the connecting section30is provided on the first boundary surface61.

Further, in the embodiment, the case in which the connecting section30is configured by forming the connecting groove30ain the base plate9and covering the opening of the connecting groove30ausing the upper plate6has been described. However, the connecting section30may be configured by covering the opening of the groove section formed in the upper plate6using the base plate9.

One end of the connecting section30is disposed in the opening of the second through-hole31on the side of the base plate9, and the other end of the connecting section30is connected to a boundary section between the first through-hole37and the third through-hole38. For this reason, the connecting section30connects the first through-hole37and the second through-hole31.

The second through-hole31and the connecting section30constitute air introduction holes36. That is, the air introduction holes36have the second through-hole31and the connecting section30. The second through-hole31constitutes openings of the air introduction holes36. The air introduction holes36are connected to the injection holes32in the connecting section30. That is, the air introduction holes36branch off from the injection holes32and are connected to the outside. The air introduction holes36are formed in the substrate5to the same number as the reservoirs29and the injection holes32.

The gas-liquid separating filter3is disposed in the path of the air introduction hole36. That is, the fluid device1includes the gas-liquid separating filter3. The gas-liquid separating filter3covers the opening of the second through-hole31on the lower side (on the side of the base plate9). The gas-liquid separating filter3is sandwiched between the lower surface6aof the upper plate6and the upper surface9bof the base plate9. The gas-liquid separating filter allows a gas flowing through the air introduction hole36to pass through a space between the second through-hole31and the connecting section30, and prevent passage of the liquid flowing through the air introduction hole36. A non-woven fabric or the like formed of a water repellent material such as a Poly Tetra Fluoro Ethylene (PTFE) resin or the like are exemplary examples of the gas-liquid separating filter3. The gas-liquid separating filter3is preferably formed in a sheet shape for ease of incorporation into the fluid device. The fluid device is manufactured through a method of stacking and adhering plate-shaped or sheet-shaped substrate s in which grooves or concave sections are formed. Here, the substrate s are preferably melted and adhered to each other without using an adhesive agent in order to form them with very small dimensions. When the gas-liquid separating filter3is a flat sheet material, there is consistency in a manufacturing process of stacking and attaching the substrate s without using an adhesive agent.

According to the embodiment, even when the injection hole32is closed by the injection hole closing film33, the air can be introduced into the reservoir29by forming the air introduction hole36. For this reason, the air can be introduced from behind the solution filled into the reservoir29, and the solution in the reservoir29can be moved to the flow path11via the supply hole39.

According to the embodiment, the gas-liquid separating filter3provided in the path of the air introduction hole36is provided. The gas-liquid separating filter3prevents passage of a liquid while allowing passage of a gas. For this reason, the gas-liquid separating filter3does not prevent air from being introduced into the reservoir29via the air introduction hole36. Meanwhile, the gas-liquid separating filter3can prevent the solution filled into the reservoir29from leaking outside via the air introduction hole36.

According to the embodiment, the gas-liquid separating filter3is disposed on the first boundary surface61, and covers the opening of the second through-hole31on the lower side (on the side of the base plate9). For this reason, the gas-liquid separating filter3is not exposed to the outside. As a result, it is possible to prevent the gas-liquid separating filter3from being damaged during transportation or handling of the fluid device1.

As described above, the second through-hole31is formed in a shape tapered from an upper side toward a lower side. Since the upper plate6is formed of a resin material, the second through-hole31is formed due to the convex section formed in the mold. The convex section needs have an increased strength with respect to the molten resin material flowing into the mold. For this reason, the convex section needs to have a sufficient size to secure sufficient rigidity, which makes passing through the second through-hole difficult. Meanwhile, the gas-liquid separating filter3is provided in the lower opening of the second through-hole31. The gas-liquid separating filter3may be expensive. For this reason, the size of the gas-liquid separating filter3is preferably small.

According to the embodiment, the second through-hole31is formed in a tapered shape, a lower side of which is smaller. The second through-hole31has a cross-sectional area that is minimal at the lower opening (on the side of the base plate9). For this reason, the gas-liquid separating filter3configured to cover the lower opening of the second through-hole31can be reduced, and an inexpensive fluid reservoir can be configured. In addition, the convex section provided in the mold to form the second through-hole31may be formed in a conical shape. Accordingly, a sufficient rigidity can be provided to the convex section, and the second through-hole31can be reliably formed. A taper angle α of the second through-hole31is preferably 5° or more in order to sufficiently increase a release property of the convex section in the mold.

In the embodiment, the flow path11is disposed between the upper plate6and the base plate9, and the reservoirs29are disposed between the base plate9and the lower plate8. That is, the flow path11is disposed on the first boundary surface61, and the reservoirs29are disposed on the second boundary surface62. However, at least one of the flow path11and the reservoirs29may be disposed on the first boundary surface61. In addition, at least one of the flow path11and the reservoirs29may be disposed on the second boundary surface62.

In the embodiment, the connecting section30of the air introduction hole36is disposed on the first boundary surface61. However, the connecting section30may be disposed in the base plate9. In addition, the connecting section30may be disposed on the second boundary surface62.

Similarly, in the embodiment, the gas-liquid separating filter3is disposed on the first boundary surface61. However, the location of the gas-liquid separating filter3is not limited as long as the gas-liquid separating filter3is disposed in the path of the air introduction holes36. For example, the gas-liquid separating filter3may be disposed on the second boundary surface62.

Solution Supply System

Next, a solution supply system4configured to supply solutions S to the flow path11from the reservoirs29in the fluid device1will be described with reference toFIG. 5.

FIG. 5is a schematic cross-sectional view of the solution supply system4. InFIG. 5, the supply holes39, the reservoirs29, the flow path11and the waste liquid tank7of the fluid device1are shown in series.

The solution supply system4moves the solutions previously filled into the reservoirs29to the flow path11from the reservoirs29. The solution supply system4includes the fluid device1, and a suction device (a negative pressure applying device, a pressure applying device)56.

As shown inFIG. 5, the suction device56is connected to the air hole35of the fluid device1. The suction device56causes the inside of the flow path11to reach a negative pressure via the air hole35. In this way, the air hole35formed in the substrate5functions as a device connecting hole configured to connect a pressure applying device (in the embodiment, the suction device56) configured to apply a negative pressure or a positive pressure to the flow path11.

The solution supply system4moves the solutions S previously filled into the reservoirs29to the flow path11from the reservoirs29. More specifically, the solution supply system4sequentially introduces the solutions S from the reservoirs29into the quantitative divisions18of the circulation flow path10, respectively. Here, while a sequence of introducing the solutions S into one of the quantitative divisions18is described, the solutions S are also introduced into the other quantitative divisions18by performing the same sequence.

Opening/closing of the valves V, Vi and Vo when the solutions S are introduced into the quantitative divisions18will be described with reference toFIG. 2. First, the pair of quantitative valves V disposed at both sides in the lengthwise direction of the quantitative divisions18into which the solutions S are introduced are closed. Further, the waste liquid valves Vo of the discharge flow paths13connected to the corresponding quantitative divisions18are opened, and simultaneously, the waste liquid valves Vo of the other discharge flow paths13are closed. In addition, the introduction valves Vi of the introduction flow paths12connected to the corresponding quantitative divisions18are opened.

Next, the inside of the waste liquid tank7is suctioned to a negative pressure from the air hole35using the suction device56. Accordingly, the solutions S in the reservoirs29are moved toward the flow path11via the supply holes39. In addition, the air passing through the air introduction holes36is introduced behind the solutions S of the reservoirs29. Accordingly, the solution supply system4introduces the solutions S accommodated in the reservoirs29to the quantitative divisions18of the circulation flow path10via the supply holes39and the introduction flow paths12.

According to the embodiment, the gas-liquid separating filter3is provided in the path of the air introduction holes36. For this reason, even when a positive pressure is applied to the air hole35due to an erroneous operation or the like of the suction device56connected to the air hole35, it is possible to prevent the solutions from leaking from the air introduction holes36.

Variant of Solution Supply System

Next, a solution supply system104of a variant will be described with reference toFIG. 6. Further, components the same as in the above-mentioned embodiment are designated by the same reference signs and description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 6is a schematic cross-sectional view of the solution supply system104of the variant. InFIG. 6, the supply holes39, the reservoirs29, the flow path11and the waste liquid tank7of the fluid device1are shown in series.

Like the above-mentioned embodiment, the solution supply system104moves the solutions S previously filled into the reservoirs29to the flow path11from the reservoirs29. More specifically, the solution supply system104sequentially introduces the solutions S into the quantitative divisions18of the circulation flow path10from the reservoirs29, respectively.

The solution supply system104moves the solutions previously filled into the reservoirs29to the flow path11from the reservoirs29. The solution supply system104includes the fluid device1, and a positive pressure applying device (a pressure applying device)156.

The positive pressure applying device156is connected to the air introduction holes36of the fluid device1. The positive pressure applying device156applies a positive pressure to the reservoirs29via the air introduction holes36. In addition, in the solution supply system104of the variant, the air hole35that opens to the waste liquid tank7is open to the outside.

Like the above-mentioned embodiment, first, the pair of quantitative valves V disposed on both sides in the lengthwise direction of the quantitative divisions18into which the solutions S are introduced are closed. Further, the waste liquid valves Vo of the discharge flow paths13connected to the corresponding quantitative divisions18are opened, and simultaneously, the waste liquid valves Vo of the other discharge flow paths13are closed. In addition, the introduction valves Vi of the introduction flow paths12connected to the corresponding quantitative divisions18are opened.

The positive pressure applying device156applies a positive pressure to the reservoirs29via the air introduction holes36. Accordingly, the solutions S in the reservoirs29move toward the flow path11via the supply holes39. In addition, the air in the flow path11and the waste liquid tank7is exhausted to the outside via the air hole35. Accordingly, the solution supply system104introduces the solutions S accommodated in the reservoirs29to the quantitative divisions18of the circulation flow path10via the supply holes39and the introduction flow paths12

Further, in the embodiment, the positive pressure applying device156is connected to the air introduction holes36. However, the positive pressure applying device156may be connected to the openings of the injection holes32, from which the injection hole closing film33is separated. In this case, the openings of the air introduction holes36are preferably closed by a film or the like.

Solution Mixing System

Next, the solution mixing system configured to mix the solutions supplied to the flow path of the fluid device1will be described with reference toFIG. 2. The solution mixing system has the fluid device1, and a control part (not shown) configured to control a pump (not shown) that circulates the solutions in the flow path11of the fluid device1.

First, in a state in which the solutions are introduced into the quantitative divisions18of the circulation flow path10as described above, respectively, the waste liquid valves Vo and the introduction valves Vi are closed, and the quantitative valves V are open. Further, the solutions in the circulation flow path10are delivered and circulated using the pump (not shown). In the solutions that circulate through the circulation flow path10, due to interaction (friction) between the flow path wall surface in the flow path and the solutions, a flow velocity around the wall surface is slow, and a flow velocity at the center of the flow path is fast. As a result, since the flow velocity of the solutions can be distributed, mixing and reaction of the solutions are promoted.

Second Embodiment

FIG. 7is a partial cross-sectional view of a fluid device201of the second embodiment.

The fluid device201of the embodiment is distinguished from the fluid device1of the above-mentioned first embodiment mainly in that a septum233configured to close the openings of the injection holes32is provided. Further, the components of the same aspect as the above-mentioned embodiment are designated by the same reference signs and description thereof will be omitted.

The fluid device201of the embodiment includes the substrate5, the gas-liquid separating filter3, the plurality of valves V, Vi and Vo, and the septum233. Further, inFIG. 7, illustration of the valves V, Vi and Vo is omitted.

Like the above-mentioned embodiment, the substrate5has the upper plate6, the base plate9, and the lower plate8. In addition, the injection holes32, the air introduction holes36, the reservoirs29, the supply holes39, the flow path11and the waste liquid tank7are provided on the substrate5. Further, inFIG. 7, illustration of the supply holes39, the flow path11and the waste liquid tank7is omitted.

In the embodiment, the septum233is fixed to the first through-hole37formed in the upper plate6. The septum233closes the openings of the injection holes32. The septum233is formed of an elastic material. A rubber, an elastomer resin, and the like, are exemplary examples of an elastic material that is employable in the septum233. The upper plate6and the septum233are molding bodies integrally formed through two color formation, injection molding, insert molding, or the like.

As described above, in addition to the septum233, the valves V, Vi and Vo are integrally provided on the upper plate6. The septum233and the valves V, Vi and Vo may be formed of the same material. In this case, the upper plate6, the septum233and the valves V, Vi and Vo can be integrally formed through two color formation, injection molding, insert molding, or the like, using two resin materials.

The septum233may be referred to as an elastic cap member. An inner circumferential surface of a hole section of the septum233formed by penetrating the hollow needle adheres airtightly to an outer circumferential surface of the hollow needle due to elastic deformation of the septum233. Accordingly, the solutions can be injected into the reservoirs29via the hollow section of the hollow needle. In addition, the septum233airtightly closes the hole, through which the hollow needle is inserted, by removing the hollow needle. For this reason, even when the fluid device201is vertically operated after the solutions are injected into the reservoirs29, the solutions are not leaked from the openings of the injection holes32. In particular, the reservoirs29of the embodiment have a flow path shape. For this reason, since bubbles are interposed between the septum233and the solutions, the solutions can be more stably held in the reservoirs29while the solutions do not reach the septum233.

According to the fluid device201and the reservoir supply system2of the embodiment, by inserting a hollow needle of a syringe into the septum233, it is possible to easily fill the reservoirs29with the solutions S and seal the reservoirs29. In addition, the hollow needle can be inserted into and removed from the septum233a plurality of times. Accordingly, the solutions S can also be additionally injected into the reservoirs29.

According to the fluid device201of the embodiment, since the openings of the injection holes32are closed by the septum233, there is no need to provide the injection hole closing film33(seeFIG. 4) as shown in the first embodiment. For this reason, a work process when the reservoirs29are filled with the solution can be simplified.

The septum233has a circular shape when seen in the stacking direction. An external form of the septum233coincides with the first through-hole37. That is, the first through-hole37has a circular shape when seen in the stacking direction.

A diameter d of the septum233is preferably 1.5 mm or more. When the diameter d of the septum2331.5 mm or more, two color formation of the septum233with respect to the first through-hole37can be easily performed.

A dimension (thickness) t of the septum233in the stacking direction is set according to a withstand pressure required for the septum233and the diameter of the hollow needle that passes through the septum233to form the hole section in the septum233. Further, all of diameters d of the septa233having different dimensions tin the stacking direction, which will be described, are 1.5 mm or more.

When the dimension t of the septum233in the stacking direction is 1.0 mm or more, a withstand pressure of 100 kPa or more can be secured in the case in which an outer diameter of the hollow needle is 0.46 mm (26 G (gauge)) or less, and a withstand pressure of 200 kPa or more can be secured in the case in which the outer diameter of the hollow needle is 0.41 mm (27 G (gauge)) or less.

In addition, when the dimension t of the septum233in the stacking direction is 1.5 mm or more, a withstand pressure of 200 kPa or more can be secured in the case in which the outer diameter of the hollow needle is 0.46 mm (26 G (gauge)) or less.

Further, these withstand pressure designs were derived from evaluation experiments by the inventors of the present invention.

Variant 1 of Septum

FIG. 8Ais a partial cross-sectional view of a fluid device301including a septum333of Variant 1 that is employable in the second embodiment. Further, the components of the same aspect as the above-mentioned embodiment are designated by the same reference signs and description thereof will be omitted.

The fluid device301of the variant includes a substrate305and the septum333. An injection hole332and the air introduction holes36are formed in the substrate305. The injection hole332connects the reservoirs29(omitted inFIG. 8A) to the outside. The air introduction holes36are branched off from the injection hole332and connected to the outside.

The substrate305has an upper plate306, the base plate9and the lower plate8(omitted inFIG. 8A). A first through-hole (a through-hole)337configured to hold the septum333is formed in the upper plate306. The first through-hole337is connected to the third through-hole38formed in the base plate9. The first through-hole337and the third through-hole38constitute the injection hole332. In addition, the first through-hole337constitutes an opening of the injection hole332.

The first through-hole337has a circular shape when seen in the stacking direction. A convex section337aprotruding toward an inward side of the first through-hole337is formed on an inner circumferential surface of the first through-hole337. An upper end of the convex section337ais disposed below an upper end of the first through-hole337. In addition, a lower end of the convex section337acoincides with a lower end of the first through-hole337. The convex section337ais provided on the entire circumference of the inner circumferential surface of the first through-hole337. A protrusion height of the convex section337ais uniform in a circumferential direction. Accordingly, the shape of the first through-hole337inside the convex section337ais a circular shape when seen in the stacking direction.

The septum333is fixed to the inner circumferential surface of the first through-hole337. A concave section333ainto which the convex section337ais fitted is formed in the septum333. Like the above-mentioned embodiment, the septum333and the upper plate306are molding bodies that are integrally formed through two color formation, injection molding, insert molding, or the like. As an example, since the septum333is formed on the first through-hole337of the upper plate306after the upper plate306is formed, the concave section333ainto which the convex section of the convex section337ais fitted is formed in the septum333.

The convex section337aof the first through-hole337has a stepped surface337bthat is directed upward. Meanwhile, the septum333has a facing surface333bthat constitutes the concave section333aand is directed downward. The stepped surface337band the facing surface333bface and come into contact with each other in the stacking direction. For this reason, the stepped surface337bcan prevent the septum333from moving downward. That is, according to the variant, since the convex section337ais fitted into the concave section333a, the stepped surface337bprevents downward movement of the septum333, and functions as a retainer of the septum333.

Variant 2 of Septum

FIG. 8Bis a partial cross-sectional view of fluid device401including a septum433of Variant 2 that is employable in the second embodiment. Further, the components of the same aspect as the above-mentioned embodiment are designated by the same reference signs and a description thereof will be omitted.

The fluid device401of the variant includes a substrate405and the septum433. An injection hole432and the air introduction holes36are formed in the substrate405. The injection hole432connects the reservoirs29(omitted inFIG. 8A) to the outside. The air introduction holes36are branched off from the injection hole432and connected to the outside.

The substrate405has an upper plate406, the base plate9and the lower plate8(omitted inFIG. 8B). A first through-hole (a through-hole)437configured to hold the septum433is formed in the upper plate406. The first through-hole437is connected to the third through-hole38formed in the base plate9. The first through-hole437and the third through-hole38constitute the injection hole432. In addition, the first through-hole437constitutes the opening of the injection hole432. The injection hole432connects the reservoirs29(omitted inFIG. 8B) to the outside.

A convex section437aprotruding toward an inward side of the first through-hole437is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the first through-hole437. An upper end of the convex section437ais disposed below an upper end of the first through-hole437. In addition, a lower end of the convex section437ais disposed above a lower end of the first through-hole437. In addition, a concave section433ainto which the convex section437ais fitted is formed in the septum433.

The convex section437aof the first through-hole437has a first stepped surface437bdirected upward, and a second stepped surface437cdirected downward. Meanwhile, the septum433has a first facing surface433bdirected downward, and a second facing surface433cdirected upward. The first stepped surface437band the first facing surface433bface and come into contact with each other in the stacking direction. Similarly, the second stepped surface437cand the second facing surface433cface and come into contact with each other in the stacking direction. For this reason, the first stepped surface437band the second stepped surface437crestrict movement of the septum433in the upward/downward direction. That is, according to the variant, since the convex section437ais fitted into the concave section433a, the first stepped surface437band the second stepped surface437crestrict movement of the septum433in the upward/downward direction, and function as a retainer of the septum433.

Hereinabove, although various embodiments of the present invention have been described, the configurations, combinations thereof, and the like, of the embodiments are exemplary examples, and additions, omission, substitutions and other modifications of the configurations may be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST