Patent Description:
In biomedical technologies, controlling the flow of a reagent and a liquid under test (e.g., blood or urine) has been an issue. Conventionally, in biomedical detection, the movement of liquid is controlled by a pipet and the capillarity phenomenon. Thus, if there are multiple test cassettes to be tested, the test cassettes need to be tested one after another, which is time-consuming. While multiple test devices may be used to test the test cassettes to reduce test time, it is costly to purchase multiple test devices.

<CIT> provides an inspection object acceptor capable of performing highly accurate inspection and measurement of a specimen. An inspection chip <NUM>, which is an inspection object acceptor of the present invention, is constituted so that a specimen guiding part <NUM> is internally contacted with a quantitative determination part inlet/outlet surface <NUM> in projecting and overlapping the specimen guiding part <NUM> and the quantitative determination part inlet/outlet surface <NUM> which is a flat surface constituted including a front end part of a second wall part right wall surface 52A and a first wall part left wall surface 51A of a quantitative determination part <NUM> in the rear side of an inspection chip <NUM>. Since a specimen flowed from the specimen guiding part <NUM> into the quantitative determination part <NUM> flows in the vicinity of an end part of a liquid level of the specimen formed on the quantitative determination part inlet/outlet surface <NUM>, the liquid level of the specimen is not disturbed. Thus, no quantitative determination error of the specimen occurs in the quantitative determination part <NUM>, thereby enabling inspecting the specimen with high accuracy.

<CIT> provides a microfluidic device to more easily and mechanically operate a valve for controlling a fluid flow, which comprises: a platform having a plurality of chambers; at least one flow channel which connects between the chambers; and a valve which opens or closes the flow channel, wherein the valve includes a blocking member which selectively blocks the flow channel and a pressing member installed in the blocking member to move the blocking member, and the pressing member has a structure which presses and moves the blocking member by the linear reciprocat ing mot ion in the same direction as the direction of an external force, and the valve further includes a driving unit which reversibly controls the opening and closing of the flow channel caused by the blocking member by fixing the pressing member to the position of the moved pressing member or returning to the original position.

<CIT> provides microfluidic assemblies (<NUM>), systems, and methods for manipulating fluid samples. Assemblies include an elastically deformable cover layer (<NUM>) and a less elastically deformable substrate (<NUM>). The methods include deforming the substrate through the cover layer so that when the cover layer rebounds a new communication results in the assembly between the cover layer and the substrate and/or so that a new barrier wall is formed. Systems for carrying out the methods are also provided.

<CIT> provides a liquid-sealed cartridge in which a liquid is transferred by a centrifugal force generated when the liquid-sealed cartridge is rotated around a rotation shaft, including: a liquid storage portion configured to store the liquid therein; a seal having an outer peripheral portion connected to the liquid storage portion, the seal being configured to seal the liquid storage portion; a flow path connected to the liquid storage portion via the seal, through which the liquid in the liquid storage portion is transferred by the centrifugal force in a direction away from the rotation shaft, wherein, when the seal receives a pressing force, the seal is inclined in a pressing direction, with one portion of the outer peripheral portion thereof remaining connected with the liquid storage portion, and the other portion of the outer peripheral portion being separated from the liquid storage portion.

The embodiments of the disclosure provide a biological detection system capable of testing a plurality of test cassettes at the same time and effectively controlling the movement of liquid.

The embodiments of the invention provide a biological detection device capable of effectively controlling the movement of liquid.

A biological detection system according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes a control module, a bearing rotatable plate, a first driving module, rotatable sub-plates, second driving modules, and test cassettes. The bearing rotatable plate has a main rotating shaft. The first driving module is electrically connected to the control module and connected to the main rotating shaft, and the bearing rotatable plate rotates about the main rotating shaft. The rotatable sub-plates each have independent rotating shaft different from the main rotating shaft. The rotatable sub-plates are disposed on the bearing rotatable plate and each is independently rotatable about the respective independent rotating shaft. The second driving modules are electrically connected to the control module, so that each of the rotatable sub-plates independently rotates about the respective independent rotating shaft. For example, the second driving modules may be connected to the independent rotating shaft, and the independent rotating shafts and the main rotating shaft have different rotating directions and rotating speeds. The test cassettes are detachably disposed on the rotatable sub-plates. Each of the test cassettes includes a micro-channel structure adapted to be disposed with a fluid set. The bearing rotatable plate is driven by the first driving module to rotate about the main rotating shaft, so as to provide a centrifugal force to the test cassettes on the bearing rotatable plate. Each of the rotatable sub-plates is independently driven by one of the second driving modules, so that each of the test cassettes is rotated independently about the respective independent rotating shaft.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the biological detection system further includes a third driving module and a pushing rod. The third driving module is electrically connected to the control module and disposed on the bearing rotatable plate. The pushing rod is disposed among the rotatable sub-plates and connected to the third driving module to be driven by the third driving module to approach one of the rotatable sub-plates. The pushing rod is adapted to be inserted into the test cassette on the rotatable sub-plate to break a capsule in the test cassette and make a capsule fluid in the capsule flow into the micro-channel structure.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the biological detection system further includes a weight member and a fourth driving module. The weight member is rotatably disposed on the bearing rotatable plate. The fourth driving module is electrically connected to the control module and connected to the weight member, so that the weight member rotates relative to the bearing rotatable plate.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the biological detection system further includes a wireless or wired communication module The wireless or wired communication module is electrically connected to the control module to transmit an external signal to the control module to control the first driving module and at least one of the second driving modules.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the second driving modules and the rotatable sub-plates are located on a same side or different sides of the bearing rotatable plate.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the test cassettes include a first cassette and a second cassette different from each other, and the micro-channel structures include a first micro-channel structure and a second micro-channel structure different from each other. The first cassette includes the first micro-channel structure, and the second cassette includes the second micro-channel structure. When the first cassette and the second cassette are respectively disposed on two of the rotatable sub-plates, the two rotatable sub-plates are driven by their corresponding second driving modules to rotate in different rotating directions, rotating speeds, or rotating angles.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first micro-channel structure includes a first sample injection port, a first bent segment connected to the first sample injection port, and a first quantification tank connected to the first bent segment. The fluid set corresponds to the first cassette, and includes a first fluid, and the first fluid is injected into the first sample injection port. The second driving module corresponding to the first cassette rotates the rotatable sub-plate, such that the first fluid is driven by the centrifugal force to pass through the first bent segment to flow into the first quantification tank.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first micro-channel structure further includes a second bent segment connected to the first quantification tank and a first mixing tank connected to the second bent segment. The second driving module rotates the rotatable sub-plate, such that the first fluid in the first quantification tank is driven by the centrifugal force to pass through the second bent segment and enter the first mixing tank.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first micro-channel structure further includes a third bent segment connected to the first mixing tank and a waste liquid tank connected to the third bent segment. The second driving module rotates the rotatable sub-plate, such that the first fluid in the first mixing tank is driven by the centrifugal force to pass through the third bent segment and enter the waste liquid tank.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first micro-channel structure includes a second quantification tank, a fourth bent segment connected to the second quantification tank, and a first mixing tank connected to the fourth bent segment. The fluid set corresponds to the first cassette and includes a second fluid. The second driving module rotates the rotatable sub-plate, such that the second fluid is driven by the centrifugal force to sequentially pass through the second quantification tank and the fourth bent segment and enter the first mixing tank.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first micro-channel structure includes a storage tank, a fifth bent segment connected to the storage tank, a third quantification tank connected to the fifth bent segment, a sixth bent segment connected to the third quantification tank, and a first mixing tank connected to the sixth bent segment. The fluid set corresponds to the first cassette and includes a third fluid located in the storage tank, and the second driving module rotates the rotatable sub-plate, such that the third fluid located in the storage tank is driven by the centrifugal force to sequentially pass through the fifth bent segment, the third quantification tank, and the sixth bent segment and enter the first mixing tank.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the third fluid is encapsulated by a capsule, the storage tank includes an opening and a needle away from the opening, the capsule is located in the storage tank and beside the needle.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first micro-channel structure includes a first mixing tank, a seventh bent segment connected to the first mixing tank, a fourth quantification tank connected to the seventh bent segment, an eighth bent segment connected to the fourth quantification tank, and a first detection tank connected to the eighth bent segment. The second driving module rotates the rotatable sub-plate, such that the fluid is driven by the centrifugal force to sequentially pass through the seventh bent segment, the fourth quantification tank, and the eighth bent segment and enter the first detection tank.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the second micro-channel structure includes a second sample injection port, a ninth bent segment connected to the second sample injection port, a fifth quantification tank connected to the ninth bent segment, a tenth bent segment connected to the fifth quantification tank, and a second mixing tank connected to the tenth bent segment. The fluid set corresponds to the second cassette and includes a fourth fluid, the second driving module corresponding to the second cassette rotates the rotatable sub-plate, such that the fourth fluid is driven by the centrifugal force to sequentially pass through the ninth bent segment, the fifth quantification tank, and the tenth bent segment and enter the second mixing tank.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the second micro-channel structure includes a sixth quantification tank, an eleventh bent segment connected to the sixth quantification tank, and a second mixing tank connected to the eleventh bent segment. The fluid sets corresponds to the second cassette and includes a fifth fluid, the second driving module rotates the rotatable sub-plate, such that the fifth fluid is driven by the centrifugal force to sequentially pass through the sixth quantification tank and the eleventh bent segment and enter the second mixing tank.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the second micro-channel structure includes a second mixing tank, a twelfth bent segment connected to the second mixing tank, a temporary storage tank connected to the twelfth bent segment, a thirteenth bent segment connected to the temporary storage tank, a seventh quantification tank connected to the thirteenth bent segment, a fourteenth bent segment connected to the seventh quantification tank, and a second detection tank connected to the fourteenth bent segment. The second driving module rotates the rotatable sub-plate, such that a fluid is driven by the centrifugal force to sequentially pass through the twelfth bent segment, the temporary storage tank, the thirteenth bent segment, the seventh quantification tank, and the fourteenth bent segment and enter the second detection tank.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, when the bearing rotatable plate rotates about the main rotating shaft, a rotating direction or a rotating speed of at least one of the rotatable sub-plates is different from a rotating direction or a rotating speed of the bearing rotatable plate.

The invention provides a biological detection device adapted to detect at least one test cassette Each of the test cassette includes a micro-channel structure and a fluid located in the micro-channel structure. The biological detection device includes a control module, a bearing rotatable plate, a first driving module, at least one rotatable sub-plate, and at least one second driving module. The bearing rotatable plate has a main rotating shaft. The first driving module is electrically connected to the control module and connected to the main rotating shaft, and the bearing rotatable plate rotates about the main rotating shaft. The at least one rotatable sub-plate has at least one independent rotating shaft different from the main rotating shaft. Each of the rotatable sub-plate is disposed on the bearing rotatable plate and independently rotatable about the respective independent rotating shaft. The at least one second driving module is electrically connected to the control module, so that the at least one rotatable sub-plate rotates about the at least one independent rotating shaft.

According to the invention, the biological detection device further includes a third driving module and a pushing rod. The third driving module is electrically connected to the control module and disposed on the bearing rotatable plate. The pushing rod is disposed beside the at least one rotatable sub-plate and connected to the third driving module to be driven by the third driving module to approach one of the at least one rotatable sub-plate. The pushing rod is adapted to be inserted into the test cassette on the rotatable sub-plate to break a capsule in the test cassette and make a capsule fluid in the capsule flow into the micro-channel structure.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the biological detection device further includes a weight member and a fourth driving module. The weight member is rotatably disposed on the bearing rotatable plate. The fourth driving module is electrically connected to the control module and connected to the weight member, so that the weight member rotates relative to the bearing rotatable plate.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the biological detection device further includes a wireless or wired communication module. The wireless or wired communication module is electrically connected to the control module to transmit an external signal to the control module to control the first driving module and at least one of the second driving modules.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the at least one second driving module and the at least one rotatable sub-plate are located on a same side or different sides of the bearing rotatable plate.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the at least one rotatable sub-plate includes a plurality of rotatable sub-plates disposed on the bearing rotatable plate to surround the main rotating shaft.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the at least one rotatable sub-plate includes one rotatable sub-plate, and the rotatable sub-plate and the control module are located at opposite positions in the bearing rotatable plate.

According to an embodiment of the invention, when the bearing rotatable plate rotates about the main rotating shaft, a rotating direction or a rotating speed of at least one of the rotatable sub-plates is different from a rotating direction or a rotating speed of the bearing rotatable plate.

Based on the above, the bearing rotatable plate of the biological detection system or the biological detection device according to the embodiments of the invention is driven by the first driving module to rotate about the main rotating shaft to provide a centrifugal force to the test cassettes on the bearing rotatable plate. In addition, each of the rotatable sub-plates is independently driven by a corresponding second driving module. As a result, each of the test cassettes installed to the rotatable sub-plates may rotate independently about the independent rotating shaft, such that the fluid set in the test cassettes may receive or offset the centrifugal force provided by the bearing rotatable plate to be accelerated or decelerated in the micro-channel structures. Therefore, compared with the pipet or the capillarity phenomenon conventionally adapted to control liquid movement, the biological detection device according to the embodiments of the invention rotates the bearing rotatable plate and the rotatable sub-plates via active control to quickly and efficiently drive the fluid with centrifugal force. Besides, the biological detection system according to the embodiments of the disclosure is capable of testing multiple test cassettes at the same time to significantly reduce test time.

Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts.

A biological detection system capable of testing a plurality of test cassettes at the same time is provided. With the biological detection system, test time can be reduced significantly.

<FIG> is perspective view illustrating the front side of a biological detection system according to an embodiment of the disclosure. <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating the back side of the biological detection system of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, a biological detection system <NUM> of the embodiment includes a biological detection device <NUM> of the invention and a plurality of test cassettes <NUM>. The biological detection device <NUM> includes a control module <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>), a bearing rotatable plate <NUM>, a first driving module <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>), a plurality of rotatable sub-plates <NUM>, and a plurality of second driving modules <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>).

As shown in <FIG>, the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> is provided with a main rotating shaft <NUM> (<FIG>). The main rotating shaft <NUM> is the central shaft of the bearing rotatable shaft <NUM>. The first driving module <NUM> is electrically connected to the control module <NUM> and connected to the main rotating shaft <NUM>, and receives a command of the control module <NUM> to drive the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> to rotate about the main rotating shaft <NUM>. In <FIG>, the first driving module <NUM> is merely shown for as an example. The form of the first driving module <NUM> is not limited thereto. The first driving module <NUM> may be a motor, a memory metal which deforms as the temperature changes, or an actuator in other forms.

As shown in <FIG>, in the embodiment, each of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> has a respective independent rotating shaft <NUM>. The independent rotating shafts <NUM> are the central shafts of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM>. Therefore, the independent rotating shafts <NUM> are not co-axial with the main rotating shaft <NUM>. The rotatable sub-plates <NUM> are disposed on the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> and rotatable about the respective independent rotating shafts <NUM> so as to rotate relative to the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>. The rotating direction or the rotating speed of any of the independent rotating shafts <NUM> may be different from those of the main rotating shaft <NUM>.

In addition, while an example with six rotatable sub-plates <NUM> is illustrated in the embodiment, the number of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the number of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> may be any number from <NUM> to <NUM> or even more than <NUM>. Alternatively, there may also be only one rotatable sub-plate <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, each of the second driving modules <NUM> is electrically connected to the control module <NUM> and connected to the respective independent rotating shaft <NUM>, and receives a command from the control module <NUM> to drive the corresponding rotatable sub-plate <NUM> to independently rotate about the independent rotating shaft <NUM>. In other embodiments, the second driving modules <NUM> may alternatively push the edges or other parts of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> to rotate the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> independently, rather than driving the independent rotating shafts <NUM> to rotate the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> independently. In addition, the second driving modules <NUM> may be motors, memory metals which deform as the temperature changes, or actuators in other forms.

In the embodiment, the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> are located on the front surface of the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>, whereas the second driving modules <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) are located on the back surface of the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>. Accordingly, the second driving modules <NUM> and the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> are located on opposite sides of the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>. Nevertheless, the relative positions among the second driving modules <NUM>, the rotatable sub-plates <NUM>, and the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> are not limited thereto.

In the embodiment, the number of the second driving modules <NUM> matches the number of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM>. Each of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> is independently driven by a designated second driving module <NUM>. Therefore, in the biological detection system <NUM> of the embodiment, the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> may rotate about the main rotating shaft <NUM> while each of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> may further independently rotate about the independent rotating shafts <NUM>. Since each of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> is independently driven by the designated second driving module <NUM>, the rotating speeds, the rotating directions, the rotating angles of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> may differ from one another. Accordingly, the test cassette <NUM> or the flow of liquid on each of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> may receive or offset the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>, based on different needs.

In the embodiment, the test cassettes <NUM> may be detachably disposed on the rotatable sub-plates <NUM>. Those carrying out the test may install the test cassettes <NUM> as needed to the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> and remove the test cassettes <NUM> from the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> after the test is completed. Those carrying out the test may also conduct tests on test cassettes <NUM> in other forms based on needs.

After being installed to the rotatable sub-plates <NUM>, the test cassettes <NUM> are fixed to and actuated with the rotatable sub-plates <NUM>. Therefore, when the biological detection system <NUM> is operating, the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> is driven by the first driving module <NUM> to rotate about the main rotating shaft <NUM>. At this time, the test cassettes <NUM> also rotate about the main rotating shaft <NUM> (i.e., revolution). At this stage, each of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> may be independently driven by the corresponding second driving modules <NUM>. Accordingly, the test cassettes <NUM> may further rotate about the independent rotating shafts <NUM>, so as to rotate to different angles in different rotating speeds and rotating directions.

In an embodiment, in addition to that the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> disposed as a first layer and the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> disposed as a second layer are capable of rotating independently, the biological detection system <NUM> may further include a plurality of rotatable plates (not shown) as a third layer on top of the second layer. The rotatable plates at the third layer may be driven by additional driving modules so that they can rotate independently. That is, the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> at the first layer, the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> at the second layer, and the rotatable plates at the third layer are driven by different driving modules to rotate independently from one another. Of course, the number of layers of the rotatable plates in the biological detection system <NUM> may also be four or more and shall not be limited to the above.

Meanwhile, in the biological detection system <NUM> of the embodiment, the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> at the second layer are directly disposed on the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> at the first layer. In the biological detection systems of other embodiments, there may be other components disposed between the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> and the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>. In such embodiment, the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> may be considered as the first layer, other components (which may or may not be rotatable, the disclosure is not particularly limited in this regard) may be considered as the second layer, and the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> may be considered as the third layer or even other layers. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the locations and the number of layers of the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> and the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> are not limited to the above, as long as the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> are able to rotate independently and receive the centrifugal force generated during the rotation of the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>.

In the embodiment, each of the test cassettes <NUM> includes a micro-channel structure <NUM>, and a fluid is injected or placed into the micro-channel structure <NUM>. When the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> rotates (revolves) about the main rotating shaft <NUM>, the fluid in the test cassette <NUM> may be thrown toward the direction of a centrifugal force C. Since the test cassettes <NUM> may be rotated to different angles in different rotating speeds and rotating directions, an operator may adjust the angles of the micro-channel structures <NUM> with respect to the centrifugal force C to accelerate or decelerate the movement of fluids to specific positions in the micro-channel structures <NUM>. Such operation will be described in detail in subsequent paragraphs.

Meanwhile, in the embodiment, the biological detection system <NUM> may optionally include a wireless communication module <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). The wireless communication module <NUM> is electrically connected to the control module <NUM> so that an external signal can be received and transmitted to the control module <NUM> to control the first driving module <NUM> and one or more of the second driving modules <NUM>. For example, when some of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> are not provided with the test cassettes <NUM>, or when the test is conducted batch-by-batch, the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> without the test cassettes <NUM> or the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> in a batch not under test do not need to rotate.

Of course, in other embodiments, the biological detection system <NUM> may be connected to an external computer in a wired manner for signal transmission, so as to obtain the control signal of the first driving module <NUM> and the second driving modules <NUM>. The biological detection system <NUM> is not particularly limited in this regard.

Besides, the biological detection device <NUM> of the invention includes a third driving module <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>), another third driving module <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>), and a pushing rod <NUM>. The third driving modules <NUM> and <NUM> may be motors, memory metals which deform as the temperature changes, or actuators in other forms. The third driving modules <NUM> and <NUM> are electrically connected to the control module <NUM> and disposed on the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>. The pushing rod <NUM> is disposed among the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> and actuated by the third driving modules <NUM> and <NUM>, so as to be driven by the third driving modules <NUM> and <NUM> to approach one of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM>.

In the embodiment, the third driving module <NUM> of <FIG> is disposed on the back surface of the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> to control the pushing rod <NUM> to rotate to the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> to be approached. Besides, the third driving module <NUM> shown in <FIG> is disposed on the front surface of the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> to control the pushing rod <NUM> to move forward or backward. Of course, in other embodiments, the types of the third driving modules <NUM> and <NUM> are not limited thereto. The third driving modules <NUM> and <NUM> may be replaced by other structures enabling rotation and movement, or may be a single assembly such as a robotic arm.

At a specific timing, the pushing rod <NUM> is adapted to be inserted into the cassette <NUM> on the rotatable sub-plate <NUM>, so that a capsule <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) in the test cassette <NUM> is pushed forward and pierced through. As a result, a capsule fluid in the capsule <NUM> flows into the micro-channel structure <NUM>. Details in this regard will be described in subsequent paragraphs.

In the following, the operation principle of the biological detection system will be described.

<FIG> are schematic views illustrating an operation principle of a biological detection system. Referring to <FIG>, in the embodiment, a fluid channel structure <NUM> is disposed in the test cassette <NUM> on the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> of <FIG>, for example. When the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> of the biological detection system <NUM> rotates, the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> receives the centrifugal force C. If the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> on which the fluid channel structure <NUM> is mounted is rotated relative to the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> to a specific angle, a fluid F may be moved in a specific direction or to a specific space in the fluid channel structure <NUM>.

Specifically, when the fluid channel structure <NUM> is at a position relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C as indicated in <FIG>, the fluid F may flow to a quantification tank <NUM> through an injection port <NUM> of the fluid channel structure <NUM>, and an excessive fluid F may flow to an overflow tank <NUM> through a pipe <NUM>. Specifically, when the fluid channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>, the fluid F in the quantification tank <NUM> may flow out via an outlet pipe <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in the embodiment, when a flow channel structure 50a is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C back and forth between the positions indicated in <FIG>, the fluid F may reciprocally flow from one tank <NUM> to another tank <NUM> for mixing.

Referring to <FIG>, in the embodiment, when a flow channel structure 50b is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C from the position shown in <FIG> to the positions shown in <FIG>, the fluid F in the tank <NUM> may be poured out in separate trials and amounts.

Thus, by controlling the angle of the flow channel relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C, the fluid F may be controlled to move to a specific position in the flow channel, so as to achieve a specific function (e.g., quantification, mixing, etc.).

Referring to <FIG> again, in the embodiment, the test cassettes <NUM> include a first cassette <NUM> and a second cassette <NUM> of different designs, which may be used for different tests or different specimens. The first cassette <NUM> includes a first micro-channel structure <NUM>, and the second cassette <NUM> includes a second micro-channel structure <NUM>. The first micro-channel structure <NUM> and the second micro-channel structure <NUM> may be micro-channel structures <NUM> of different designs.

When the first cassette <NUM> and the second cassette <NUM> are respectively disposed on two of the rotatable sub-plates <NUM>, depending on the designs of the first micro-channel structure <NUM> and the second micro-channel structure <NUM>, these two rotatable sub-plates <NUM> may be driven by two of the second driving modules <NUM> to rotate with different steps for different functions based on needs.

In the following, the test process of the first cassette <NUM> will be described. <FIG> is a top view of a test cassette of the biological detection system of <FIG>. <FIG> are schematic views illustrating a test process of the test cassette of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, in the embodiment, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> includes a first sample injection port <NUM>, a first bent segment <NUM> connected to the first sample injection port <NUM>, a first quantification tank <NUM> connected to the first bent segment <NUM>, and a separation tank <NUM> and an overflow tank <NUM> connected to the first quantification tank <NUM>.

In the process from <FIG>, the specimen under test (e.g., blood, but the disclosure is not limited thereto) is injected into the first sample injection port <NUM>. In the embodiment, the blood includes plasma (first fluid F11) and blood cells F12.

Under the acting of the centrifugal force C, the blood passes through the first bent segment <NUM> and is separated into plasma (the first fluid F11) and the blood cells F12. The blood cells F12 with a greater density may flow to the separation tank <NUM> at this stage, and the plasma (the first fluid F11) may flow to the first quantification tank <NUM> for subsequent use. In addition, in the embodiment, excessive blood may flow to the overflow tank <NUM>.

Then, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. In the embodiment, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> further includes a second bent segment <NUM> connected to the first quantification tank <NUM> and first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM> connected to the second bent segment <NUM>. The second driving module <NUM> rotates the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> such that the first fluid F11 originally located in the first quantification tank <NUM> is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through the second bent segment <NUM> and enter the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM>. In the embodiment, an antibody P may be provided in the first mixing tank <NUM>, and the first fluid F11 may be mixed with the antibody P in the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM>.

Then, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. In the embodiment, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> further includes a third bent segment <NUM> connected to first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM> and a waste liquid tank <NUM> connected to the third bent segment <NUM>. The second driving module <NUM> rotates the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> such that the first fluid F11 located in the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM> is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through the third bent segment <NUM> and enter the waste liquid tank <NUM>.

Then, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. In the embodiment, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> includes an injection port <NUM>, a second quantification tank <NUM> connected to the injection port <NUM>, and a tank <NUM> connected to the injection port <NUM>. A second fluid F2 is injected into the injection port <NUM> and flows into the second quantification tank <NUM> and the tank <NUM>. The second fluid F2 is a cleaning liquid, for example. However, the type of the second fluid F2 is not limited thereto.

Then, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. In the embodiment, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> further includes a fourth bent segment <NUM> connected to the second quantification tank <NUM>. The fourth bent segment <NUM> is connected to the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM>. The second driving module <NUM> rotates the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> such that the second fluid F2 located in the second quantification tank <NUM> is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through the fourth bent segment <NUM> and enter the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM>.

Then, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. The second driving module <NUM> rotates the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> such that the second fluid F2 located in the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM> is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through the third bent segment <NUM> and enter the waste liquid tank <NUM>.

Then, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. In the embodiment, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> includes a storage tank <NUM>, a fifth bent segment <NUM> connected to the storage tank <NUM>, and a third quantification tank <NUM> connected to the fifth bent segment <NUM>.

A third fluid F31 located in the storage tank <NUM> is encapsulated by the capsule <NUM>. The storage tank <NUM> has an opening <NUM> and a needle <NUM> away from the opening <NUM>. The capsule <NUM> is located in the storage tank <NUM> and beside the needle <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the pushing rod <NUM> may be inserted into the opening <NUM> of the storage tank <NUM> to push the capsule <NUM> toward the needle <NUM> to break the capsule <NUM> and make the third fluid F31 in the capsule <NUM> flow out. Back to <FIG>, at this time, the third fluid F31 flowing out of the capsule <NUM> is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through the fifth bent segment <NUM> and flow into the third quantification tank <NUM>.

Then, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. In the embodiment, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> includes a sixth bent segment <NUM> connected to the third quantification tank <NUM>. The sixth bent segment <NUM> is connected to the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM>. The third fluid F31 in the third quantification tank <NUM> is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through the sixth bent segment <NUM> and enter the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM>.

Then, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. The second driving module <NUM> rotates the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> such that the third fluid F31 located in the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM> is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through the third bent segment <NUM> and enter the waste liquid tank <NUM>.

Then, the processes shown in <FIG> may be repeated to clean the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM> by allowing the second fluid F2 (cleaning liquid) flow through the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM>.

Then, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the positions indicated in <FIG>, and <FIG> sequentially. In <FIG>, the pushing rod <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) is operated again, so that a capsule 160a located in a storage tank 140a is broken by the needle <NUM>, and a third fluid F32 flowing out of the capsule 160a is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through a fifth bent segment 142a and flow into a third quantification tank 144a. Then, the third fluid F32 in the third quantification tank 144a is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through the sixth bent segment 146a and enter the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM> to be mixed with the antibody P and then pass through the third bent segment <NUM> and enter the waste liquid tank <NUM>.

Then, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the positions indicated in <FIG> and <FIG> sequentially. In <FIG>, the pushing rod <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) is operated for the third time, so that a capsule 160b located in a storage tank 140b is broken by the needle <NUM>, and a third fluid F33 in the storage tank 140b is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through a fifth bent segment 142b and flow into a third quantification tank 144b. Then, the third fluid F33 in the third quantification tank 144b is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through the sixth bent segment 146b and enter the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM> to be mixed with the antibody P. The third fluids F31, F32, and F33 are coloring agents, for example. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

Then, the first micro-channel <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. At this time, a first detection may be carried out with the third fluid F33 in the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM>.

Then, the first micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the positions indicated in <FIG> sequentially. The first micro-channel structure <NUM> includes a seventh bent segment <NUM> connected to the first mixing tanks <NUM> and <NUM>, a temporary storage tank <NUM> connected to the seventh bent segment <NUM>, a bent segment <NUM> connected to the temporary storage tank <NUM>, a fourth quantification tank <NUM> connected to the bent segment <NUM>, an eighth bent segment <NUM> connected to the fourth quantification tank <NUM>, and first detection tanks <NUM> and <NUM> connected to the eighth bent segment <NUM>.

The second driving module <NUM> rotates the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> such that the fluid is driven by the centrifugal force C to sequentially pass through the seventh bent segment <NUM>, the temporary storage tank <NUM>, the bent segment <NUM>, the fourth quantification tank <NUM>, and the eighth bent segment <NUM> and enter the first detection tanks <NUM> and <NUM>. A second detection may be carried out with the third fluid <NUM> in the first detection tanks <NUM> and <NUM>.

Of course, the operation processes and manners of the first micro-channel fluid <NUM> are not limited to the above.

In the following, the second cassette <NUM> and the test process will be described. <FIG> is a top view of another test cassette of the biological detection system of <FIG>. <FIG> are schematic views illustrating a test process of the test cassette of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, in the embodiment, the second micro-channel structure <NUM> includes a second sample injection port <NUM>, a ninth bent segment <NUM> connected to the second sample injection port <NUM>, a fifth quantification tank <NUM> connected to the ninth bent segment <NUM>, and a separation tank <NUM> and an overflow tank <NUM> connected to the fifth quantification tank <NUM>.

In the process from <FIG>, blood (but the disclosure is not limited thereto) is injected into the second sample injection port <NUM>. In the embodiment, the blood includes plasma (fourth fluid F41) and blood cells F42.

Under the acting of the centrifugal force C, the blood passes through the ninth bent segment <NUM> and is separated into plasma (the fourth fluid F41) and the blood cells F42. The blood cells F42 with a greater density may flow to the separation tank <NUM> at this stage, and the plasma (the fourth fluid F41) may flow to the fifth quantification tank <NUM> for subsequent use. In addition, in the embodiment, excessive blood may flow to the overflow tank <NUM>.

Then, the second micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. In the embodiment, the second micro-channel structure <NUM> further includes a tenth bent segment <NUM> connected to the fifth quantification tank <NUM> and a second mixing tank <NUM> connected to the tenth bent segment <NUM>. The second driving module <NUM> corresponding to the second cassette <NUM> rotates the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> such that the fourth fluid F41 located in the fifth quantification tank <NUM> is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through the tenth bent segment <NUM> and enter the second mixing tank <NUM>.

Then, the second micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. In the embodiment, the second micro-channel structure <NUM> includes an injection port <NUM>, a sixth quantification tank <NUM> connected to the injection port <NUM>, and a tank <NUM> connected to the injection port <NUM>. A fifth fluid F5 is injected into the injection port <NUM> and flows into the sixth quantification tank <NUM> and the tank <NUM>. The fifth fluid F5 is a dilution liquid, for example. However, the type of the fifth fluid F5 is not limited thereto.

Then, the second micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the position indicated in <FIG>. In the embodiment, the second micro-channel structure <NUM> includes an eleventh bent segment <NUM> connected to the sixth quantification tank <NUM>. The eleventh bent segment <NUM> is connected to the second mixing tank <NUM>. The second driving module <NUM> rotates the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> such that the fifth fluid F5 located in the sixth quantification tank <NUM> is driven by the centrifugal force C to pass through the eleventh bent segment <NUM> and enter the second mixing tank <NUM>. At this time, the fourth fluid F41 and the fifth fluid F5 are mixed and turned into a mixed fluid F45.

Then, the second micro-channel structure <NUM> is rotated relative to the direction of the centrifugal force C to the positions indicated in <FIG>, <FIG> sequentially. In the embodiment, the second micro-channel structure <NUM> includes a twelfth bent segment <NUM> connected to the second mixing tank <NUM>, a temporary storage tank <NUM> connected to the twelfth bent segment <NUM>, a thirteenth bent segment <NUM> connected to the temporary storage tank <NUM>, a seventh quantification tank <NUM> connected to the thirteenth bent segment <NUM>, a fourteenth bent segment <NUM> connected to the seventh quantification tank <NUM>, and second detection tanks <NUM> and <NUM> connected to the fourteenth bent segment <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, the second driving module <NUM> rotates the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> such that the mixed fluid F45 of the fourth fluid F41 and the fifth fluid F5 is driven by the centrifugal force C to sequentially pass through the twelfth bent segment <NUM>, the temporary storage tank <NUM>, the thirteenth bent segment <NUM>, the seventh quantification tank <NUM>, and the fourteenth bent segment <NUM> and enter the second detection tanks <NUM> and <NUM>.

Of course, the operation processes and manners of the second micro-channel fluid <NUM> are not limited to the above.

It should be noted that the first fluid channel structure <NUM> of the first cassette <NUM> and the second fluid channel structure <NUM> of the second cassette <NUM> have different structures, and their operation processes, sequential times, rotating directions, and rotating angles are also different. Since the biological detection system <NUM> according to the embodiment is capable of simultaneously and independently controlling the angles of different rotatable sub-plates <NUM> at various time points, tests can be carried out on the first cassette <NUM> and the second cassette <NUM> at the same time, thereby reducing test operation time and providing easement to tests. In other words, as shown in <FIG>, six different test cassettes <NUM> may be placed in the biological detection system <NUM> at the same time to provide six different micro-channel structures <NUM> and allow six kinds of processes, sequential times, rotating directions, and rotating angles to be conducted at the same time.

In addition, during the test processes of the test cassettes <NUM>, the flowing directions of the fluids in the micro-channel structures <NUM> may be controlled to effectively carry out detection processes such as quantifying, mixing, cleaning, etc. The biological detection system <NUM> may continuously carry out the processes required for the test cassettes <NUM> without being interrupted. Each of the test cassettes <NUM> is not affected by the test processes of other test cassettes <NUM>. Therefore, the biological detection system <NUM> may test a plurality of identical or different test cassettes <NUM> by using one device at the same time while satisfying the test requirements of each test cassette <NUM>.

It should be noted that while only two forms of the test cassettes <NUM> are described in the embodiment, the forms described herein merely serves as examples for an illustrative purpose, and the forms and the test processes of the test cassettes <NUM> are not limited thereto.

<FIG> is a schematic top view illustrating a biological detection system according to another embodiment of the disclosure. Referring to <FIG>, a biological detection system 10a of the embodiment is mainly different from the biological detection system <NUM> of <FIG> in that both the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> and the second driving modules <NUM> are located on the front surface of the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>. Accordingly, the second driving modules <NUM> and the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> are located on the same side of the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>.

<FIG> is a schematic perspective view illustrating the back side of a biological detection system according to another embodiment of the disclosure. Referring to <FIG>, a biological detection system 10b of the embodiment mainly differs from the biological detection system <NUM> of <FIG> in that, in the embodiment, the biological detection system 10b further includes a weight member <NUM> and a fourth driving module <NUM>. The weight member <NUM> is rotatably disposed on the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>. The fourth driving module <NUM> may be a motor, a memory metal which deforms as the temperature changes, or an actuator in other forms. The fourth driving module <NUM> is electrically connected to the control module <NUM> and is connected to the weight member <NUM>. Accordingly, the weight member <NUM> is rotatable relative to the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> to adjust the overall weight distribution. In other words, the weight member <NUM> and the fourth driving module <NUM> may automatically balance the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> and the rotatable sub-plates 20such that their gravity centers are maintained near the main rotating shaft <NUM> during rotation, so as to reach a balance and reduce the chance of vibration. Accordingly, the rotation of the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> and the rotatable sub-plates <NUM> become more stable.

<FIG> is a schematic perspective view illustrating the front side of a biological detection system according to another embodiment of the disclosure. <FIG> is a schematic view when a test cassette is removed from the biological detection system of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, a biological detection system 10c of the embodiment mainly differs from the biological detection system <NUM> of <FIG> in that, in the embodiment, the number of the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> is one. Similarly, the bearing rotatable plate <NUM> may rotate about the main rotating shaft <NUM> to provide the centrifugal force C, and the second driving module <NUM> may drive the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> to rotate about the independent rotating shaft <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). Accordingly, the fluid in the test cassette <NUM> is driven by the centrifugal force C to move in the micro-channel structure <NUM>.

In <FIG>, a rechargeable battery <NUM> may at least supply power to the control module <NUM>. In an embodiment, the rechargeable battery <NUM> may further charge the second driving module <NUM>. In addition, the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> and the control module <NUM> are located at opposite positions on the bearing rotatable plate <NUM>. The test cassette <NUM> is disposed on the rotatable sub-plate <NUM> and the control module <NUM> is disposed opposite to the rotatable sub-plate <NUM>. Such arrangement is advantageous for weight distribution and allows smoother rotation.

Claim 1:
A biological detection device (<NUM>), adapted to detect at least one test cassette (<NUM>), and the biological detection device (<NUM>) comprises:
a control module (<NUM>);
a bearing rotatable plate (<NUM>), having a main rotating shaft (<NUM>);
a first driving module (<NUM>), electrically connected to the control module (<NUM>) and connected to the main rotating shaft (<NUM>), and adapted for the bearing rotatable plate (<NUM>) to rotate about the main rotating shaft (<NUM>);
at least one rotatable sub-plate (<NUM>), having at least one independent rotating shaft (<NUM>) different from the main rotating shaft (<NUM>), wherein each of the rotatable sub-plate (<NUM>) is disposed on the bearing rotatable plate (<NUM>) and independently rotatable about the respective independent rotating shaft (<NUM>);
at least one second driving module (<NUM>), electrically connected to the control module (<NUM>), so that the at least one rotatable sub-plate (<NUM>) rotates about the at least one independent rotating shaft (<NUM>); characterized in that
a third driving module (<NUM>,<NUM>), is electrically connected to the control module (<NUM>) and is disposed on the bearing rotatable plate (<NUM>); and
a pushing rod (<NUM>), is disposed beside the at least one rotatable sub-plate (<NUM>) and connected to the third driving module (<NUM>,<NUM>) to be driven by the third driving module (<NUM>,<NUM>) to approach one of the at least one rotatable sub-plate (<NUM>), wherein the pushing rod (<NUM>) is adapted to be inserted into the test cassette (<NUM>) on the rotatable sub-plate (<NUM>).