JP2006078407A - Method and apparatus for flow control, ink jet device, sampling apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method and a device for flow control capable of easily controlling the flow of a fluid flowing through a microchannel. <P>SOLUTION: A microdevice 10 is provided with a linear main channel 30, a main supply opening 21 for approximately linearly supplying a fluid (A) flowing through the main channel 30, a side supply opening 22 provided axisymmetrically, in such a way as to be within a 25°-45° range to the main channel 30 so as to supply a fluid different from the fluid (A) flowing through the main channel 30, a side-discharge opening 24 axisymmetrically provided to the main channel 30 for discharging the fluid (A) and/or the fluid (B), and a main discharge opening 23 for discharging the fluid (A) and/or the fluid (B) flowing through the main channel and controls the direction of flow of a fluid flowing in a laminar-flow state through the main channel 30. The microdevice 10 is provided with both a micro-syringe 2 for supplying a liquid for the main channel 30 and the side supply opening 22 and a control unit 3 for controlling the flow ratio of the fluid (A) and/or the fluid (B), in such a way that the quantity of flow of the liquid (B) supplied for the side supply opening 22 can be switched between a state of less than five times and a state of 8 times or more, of the quantity of flow of the fluid (A) supplied for the main channel 30. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a method for switching a flow path of a controlled fluid flowing in a micro channel (micro flow path), for example, a flow control method and a flow control apparatus for switching a flow path in a micro device.

  In a microchemical system, flow control of a fluid in a microchannel is one of essential technologies. By controlling the flow of the fluid flowing through the microchannel, the chemical reaction can be controlled at the molecular level.

  In general, as a method for directly controlling the fluid flowing in the flow path, for example, a valve is provided in the flow path and the valve is operated. Various micro valves have been proposed in the field of micro chemical systems. Yes.

  The micro valve in the micro chemical system is a type that controls the fluid flowing in the micro channel by opening and closing the valve by physically moving the valve, and the difference in chemical properties of the inner wall of the micro channel (micro channel). It can be roughly classified into the type that controls the fluid using the difference in pressure loss and wettability based on the above.

  As an example of the microvalve that physically opens and closes the valve, there is a membrane type microvalve (see Non-Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 1).

  Another method for physically controlling the fluid flowing in the microchannel is a slide-type microvalve (Non-Patent Document 2).

  This type is a system in which a dead volume due to valve operation is reduced by cutting and recombining microchannels (fine channels) by cutting and sliding a part of the microchip.

  Further, as a method of controlling the fluid that physically flows in the microchannel, as disclosed in Patent Document 2, a magnetic fluid is disposed in the microchannel, and the fluid is moved by moving the magnetic fluid. There is a configuration that controls the direction.

  On the other hand, an example using a temperature-responsive polymer as a type of microvalve based on the difference in chemical properties of the inner wall of a microchannel (microchannel) has been proposed (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 3).

Specifically, in the configuration disclosed in Non-Patent Document 2, by placing a temperature-responsive polymer in the microchannel and applying external stimulation such as heat and light to the temperature-responsive polymer, The flow of fluid is controlled by changing the wettability and volume of the surface of the temperature-responsive polymer.
JP 7-158757 A (publication date: June 20, 1995) JP 2004-77258 A (publication date: March 11, 2004) Hosokawa et al. “Silicon Rubber Microvalve” AIST Today pp. 16, 9 (2001) Kuwata et al. "Development of slide type microvalve" 8th Chemistry and Micro / Nano System Research Meeting Abstracts P2-04 (2003) Doi et al. “Liquid flow control in microchannels using polymer particles with stimuli-responsive polymer graft chains” Chemical Engineering Society 69th Annual Meeting Proceedings N108 (2004)

  However, the conventional configuration has the following problems.

  In the configurations disclosed in Patent Document 1 and Non-Patent Document 1, when a method of physically opening and closing a valve is adopted, since there is only a large dead volume in the membrane portion and the valve can only be opened and closed, the flow of fluid A plurality of valves are required to switch the direction and realize the injection function.

  In addition, a structure for connecting piping and wiring for driving the valve is required, and there is a problem that the structure of the device is dramatically complicated as the integration of microdevices progresses. Furthermore, since it is necessary to provide piping and wiring, it is necessary to increase the strength of the microdevice, and thus it is difficult to reduce the size of the microdevice.

  The method disclosed in Non-Patent Document 2 requires a considerable amount of time for slide movement, and is currently difficult to use as on-site analysis. In addition, it is necessary to prevent the fluid from flowing out to other parts by sliding a part of the flow path while the fluid is flowing to stop the flow of the fluid. Dimensional accuracy is required. That is, with the configuration of Non-Patent Document 2, it is very difficult to manufacture the device.

  Further, as disclosed in Patent Document 2, when a magnetic fluid is disposed in a microchannel, a chemical reaction may occur with the magnetic fluid depending on the type of fluid that flows in the microchannel. In addition, in order to control the movement of the magnetic fluid, a configuration for applying a magnetic field to the magnetic fluid is required, which increases the size of the apparatus. Furthermore, depending on the flow velocity of the fluid flowing in the microchannel, the magnetic fluid may also flow with the fluid, and it is difficult to reliably control the flow direction of the fluid.

  In addition, when utilizing the wettability and volume change of the temperature-responsive polymer as disclosed in Non-Patent Document 3, the wettability and volume change of the temperature-responsive polymer are sustained for a long time, Although it is important to change the wettability and volume change to reversibility, the technology so far has not been reached. That is, in the present temperature-responsive polymer, the volume can be changed by applying a certain temperature, but it cannot be restored. Therefore, the method disclosed in Patent Document 2 cannot be used as a valve for controlling fluid flow.

  As described above, in the conventional configuration, in order to control the flow direction of the fluid flowing in the microchannel, there is a problem that the configuration of the apparatus becomes complicated and the apparatus becomes large.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a flow control method and a flow control device capable of easily controlling the flow of a fluid flowing through a minute channel (microchannel), and Another object of the present invention is to provide an ink jet apparatus and a sampling apparatus using the flow control method.

  As a result of intensive studies to achieve the above-mentioned object, the present inventor controls the flow of the fluid flowing through the flow path by supplying the fluid to the microdevice having the flow path with a specific shape so as to satisfy a specific condition. The present inventors have found that the present invention can be accomplished and have completed the present invention.

That is, the flow control method according to the present invention includes a straight main flow path, a main supply port that supplies the main flow path with a fluid (A) in a substantially straight line, and a fluid (B) that is different from the fluid (A). Side supply ports provided in line symmetry within a range of 25 ° to 45 ° with respect to the main flow path for supply, and with respect to the main flow path for discharging the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) Fluid flowing in a laminar flow state in the main flow path of the microdevice having side discharge ports provided in line symmetry and a main discharge port for discharging fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) flowing through the main flow path The flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides across the main supply port so as to be line symmetric with respect to the main flow path is 0.9 m ³ / The flow rate of the fluid (B) is controlled so as to be m ² · s or more, and the above The flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides when viewed from the main flow path is 5 times the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port. The discharge destination of the fluid (A) is changed by controlling the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) so as to be switchable between a state of less than 8 and a state of 8 times or more. It is said.

  When a fluid (B) different from the fluid (A) is supplied to the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port of the microdevice and flowing through the main channel so as to be symmetrical with respect to the main channel from the side supply port. Different fluids (fluid (A) and fluid (B)) flow in a laminar flow through the microchannel (main flow path). In general, the fluid (A) flowing through the main flow path is discharged only from the main discharge port or from the main discharge port and the side discharge port. In addition, when the fluid (A) flowing through the main flow path is discharged only from the main discharge port without being discharged from the side discharge port, the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port and the fluid supplied from the side supply port (B) means that the main flow paths flow in a laminar flow state so as to be adjacent to each other. Such a micro device is used to perform operations such as chemical reaction and extraction between different fluid layers flowing in a laminar flow in the micro channel.

According to said structure, in the microchannel provided with the main supply port and the side supply port provided in line symmetry so that it may become in the range of 25 degrees-45 degrees with respect to the said main flow path, the said main flow path The flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides of the main supply port so as to be line-symmetric with respect to (if there are multiple side supply ports on one side, the total flow rate) From the main flow path with respect to the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port while controlling the flow rate of the fluid (B) so that each becomes 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more. The total flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port on one side as viewed, that is, the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is less than 5 and 8 or more Fluid (A) and / or so that it can be switched between Alternatively, the flow rate ratio of the fluid (B) is controlled. At this time, the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides of the main channel is supplied so as to satisfy the above conditions. Specifically, the flow path ratio is controlled by controlling the flow rate of at least one of the fluid (A) or the fluid (B) supplied to the main supply port or the side supply port.

The flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports on both sides across the main flow path is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / flow rate of the fluid (A) is less than 5. When the flow rate of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled as described above, the fluid (A) flows into the main channel or the main channel and the side outlet. On the other hand, the flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports on both sides across the main flow path is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, respectively, and the flow rate of fluid (B) per unit time / fluid (A) When the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled so that the flow rate becomes 8 or more, the fluid (A) is discharged from the side discharge port. Even when the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled so that the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more, both sides When the flow rate of the fluid supplied to the supply port is smaller than 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s, the fluid (A) flows to the main discharge port or the main discharge port and the side discharge port; Become.

That is, the fluid (A) supplied to the main channel has a flow rate of 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more of the fluid (fluid (B)) supplied to the side supply ports on both sides, and the fluid (B ) Flow rate / fluid (A) flow rate of 8 or more, the fluid (B) influences to flow at the end of the main flow path and to the side discharge port. Therefore, the total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more. By flowing the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B), the fluid (A) can be discharged from the side discharge port without being discharged from the main discharge port.

  Thus, the discharge destination of the fluid (A) can be controlled by controlling the flow rate ratio of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A).

  In addition, compared to the conventional configuration in which a valve or the like is physically provided to control the flow of the fluid, the flow control of the fluid can be performed without adding a special configuration such as the valve. In addition, since the micro device has a flow path etc. of μm size, when a conventional valve or the like is provided, the apparatus becomes large, but by controlling the fluid flow as in the above configuration, It is possible to provide a flow control device that is small and can easily control the flow of fluid.

In the flow control method according to the present invention, a configuration in which the cross-sectional area of the main channel is 5 × 10 ⁻¹² m ² to 1 × 10 ⁻⁵ m ² is more preferable.

  According to the above configuration, by setting the cross-sectional area in the microchannel, that is, the cross-sectional area of the main flow path through which the fluid flows, within the above range, the flow rates of the fluid (A) and the fluid (B) (that is, the fluid (A ) And fluid (B) can be easily controlled.

  The flow control method according to the present invention supplies the fluid (B) so that the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port is the same on both sides of the main supply port. It is a configuration.

  According to the above configuration, the fluid (B) is supplied so that the flow rates per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports located on both sides of the main channel are the same. Yes. Thereby, with respect to the fluid (A) which flows through the main flow path, the fluid (B) can be evenly supplied from both sides. Therefore, the flow of the fluid flowing through the main flow path can be controlled more easily.

In order to solve the above problems, the flow control device according to the present invention includes a linear main channel, a main supply port that supplies the fluid (A) to the main channel in a substantially linear shape, and the fluid ( A side supply port provided in line symmetry within a range of 25 ° to 45 ° with respect to the main flow path to supply a fluid (B) different from A), the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) The mainstream of the microdevice provided with the side discharge port provided in line symmetry with respect to the main flow path for discharging the fluid and the main discharge port for discharging the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) flowing through the main flow path A flow control device for controlling a flow direction of a fluid flowing in a laminar flow state in a channel, the supply means supplying fluid to each of the main supply port and the side supply port, and a fluid (A) and / or a fluid ( B) and a control means for controlling the flow rate per unit time, The control means is configured such that the flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides across the main supply port is 0.9 m ³ / m ² across the main supply port so as to be symmetric with respect to the main flow path by the supply unit. The flow rate of the fluid (B) is controlled so as to be greater than or equal to s, and the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides as viewed from the main flow path is The flow rate ratio of fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) is switchable between a state of less than 5 times and a state of more than 8 times the flow rate per unit time of fluid (A) to be supplied. It is characterized by controlling.

According to said structure, in the microdevice provided with the side supply port provided in line symmetry so that it may become in the range of 25 degrees-45 degrees with respect to the said main flow path, the side supply of both sides on both sides of the main flow path The flow rate of the fluid supplied to the mouth is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more respectively, and the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides when viewed from the main flow path is Fluid (A) and / or fluid so that the state of less than 5 times and the state of more than 8 times the flow rate per unit time of fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port can be switched. The flow ratio of (B) is controlled.

The flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the fluid (B) / fluid (A) flow rate is less than 5 ( When the flow rate of A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled, the fluid (A) flows to the main outlet or the main outlet and the side outlet. On the other hand, the flow rate of fluid supplied to the side supply ports on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of fluid (B) per unit time / flow rate of fluid (A) is 8 or more. When the flow rate of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled as described above, the fluid (A) flows only to the side discharge port. Further, even when the flow rate of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled so that the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more, the side supply on both sides is performed. When the flow rate of the fluid supplied to the mouth is smaller than 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s, the fluid (A) flows to the main outlet or the main outlet and the side outlet. .

Specifically, the flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more. In this case, the fluid (A) supplied to the main channel flows through the end of the main channel due to the influence of the fluid (B), and as a result, is discharged from the side discharge port. Accordingly, the total flow rate of the fluid supplied from the side supply ports on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more. By supplying the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B), the fluid (A) can be discharged only from the side discharge port without discharging from the main discharge port.

  Thus, the discharge destination of the fluid (A) can be controlled by controlling the flow rate ratio of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A).

  In order to solve the above-described problems, an ink jet apparatus according to the present invention includes the above flow control device.

  According to said structure, the inkjet apparatus is provided with the said flow control apparatus. And the said flow control apparatus can control the flow of the fluid supplied by the supply means. Specifically, the discharge destination of the fluid (A) can be changed by controlling the flow rate (flow rate ratio) of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B). Therefore, for example, when ink is flowed as the fluid (A), the ink discharge destination can be controlled by controlling the flow rate of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B). In other words, when image formation is performed by discharging ink from the main flow path, it is possible to control ink discharge by controlling the ink discharge destination. Thereby, it can utilize as an inkjet apparatus.

In order to solve the above-described problems, the sampling device according to the present invention includes a linear main channel, a main supply port that supplies the fluid (A) to the main channel in a substantially linear shape, and the fluid (A). In order to supply different fluids (B), side supply ports provided in line symmetry within a range of 25 ° to 45 ° with respect to the main flow path, and the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) are discharged. Therefore, a sampling apparatus provided with a microdevice having a side discharge port provided symmetrically with respect to the main flow path and a main discharge port for discharging the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) flowing through the main flow path A supply means for supplying fluid to each of the main supply port and the side supply port, and the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) discharged from the side discharge port and / or the main discharge port. By the acquisition means to acquire and the supply means Fluid so that the flow rate of the fluid (B) to be supplied from both sides of the side feed port across the main supply port so as to be line-symmetrical with respect to the serial main channel is respectively 0.9m 3 / m ² · ^s or more In addition to controlling the flow rate of (B), the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides as viewed from the main flow path is the same as that of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port Control means for controlling the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) so as to be switchable between a state of less than 5 times and a state of more than 8 times the flow rate per unit time;
The total flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port on one side as viewed from the main flow path is compared with the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port. It is characterized by comprising command means for starting the acquisition of fluid by the acquisition means when it is detected that the ratio is less than 5 times or more than 8 times.

The total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports on both sides across the main flow path by the supply means is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of fluid (B) per unit time / fluid (A When the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled so that the flow rate of () is 8 or more, the fluid (A) flows only to the side discharge port. That is, the total flow rate of the fluid supplied from the supply ports on both sides by the supply means is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, respectively, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / flow rate of the fluid (A) is In the case of 8 or more, the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port flows through the end of the main flow path due to the influence of the fluid (B) and flows into the side discharge port. Accordingly, the total flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides of the main supply port is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / fluid (A) By flowing the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) so that the flow rate of the fluid becomes 8 or more, the fluid (A) can be discharged from the side discharge port without being discharged from the main flow path.

  When the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 5 or less, for example, about 2, the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port is not discharged from the side discharge port, and is mainly discharged. It is discharged only from the outlet. Therefore, for example, the fluid (B) and the fluid (A) are usually supplied so that the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is about 2, and the fluid (B ) / Flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more, the fluid (A) can be discharged from the side flow path, and sampling can be performed.

  In the sampling device according to the present invention, the command means is configured such that the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied to the side supply port is equal to the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied to the main channel. The flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied to the side supply port is detected with respect to the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied to the main flow path. It is more preferable that the acquisition of the fluid by the acquisition unit is terminated when it is detected that the ratio is less than 5 times.

  With the above configuration, the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied to the side supply port is less than five times the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied to the main flow path. Sampling can be terminated at this point.

The flow control method according to the present invention supplies a linear main channel, a main supply port for supplying the fluid (A) to the main channel in a substantially linear shape, and a fluid (B) different from the fluid (A). Therefore, a side supply port provided in line symmetry within a range of 25 ° to 45 ° with respect to the main flow path and a line with respect to the main flow path for discharging the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) Controlling the fluid flowing in a laminar flow state in the main flow path of the microdevice having the side discharge port provided symmetrically and the main discharge port discharging the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) flowing through the main flow channel The flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides across the main supply port so as to be line-symmetric with respect to the main flow path is 0.9 m ³ / m ² respectively.・ Control the flow rate of fluid (B) so that it is greater than or equal to s. The flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides is less than 5 times the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port. In this configuration, the fluid (A) discharge destination is changed by controlling the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) so that the state can be switched between 8 and more.

  Therefore, the discharge destination of the fluid (A) can be controlled by controlling the flow rate of the fluid (B) / flow rate of the fluid (A). Therefore, there is an effect that the flow of the fluid flowing through the minute flow path (microchannel) can be easily controlled.

The flow control device according to the present invention supplies a linear main channel, a main supply port for supplying fluid (A) to the main channel in a substantially linear shape, and a fluid (B) different from the fluid (A). Therefore, a side supply port provided in line symmetry within a range of 25 ° to 45 ° with respect to the main flow path and a line with respect to the main flow path for discharging the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) Flow of fluid flowing in a laminar flow state in the main flow path of a microdevice having side discharge ports provided symmetrically and a main discharge port for discharging fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) flowing through the main flow path A flow control device for controlling a direction, the supply means supplying fluid to each of the main supply port and the side supply port, and the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B). Control means, and the control means is controlled by the supply means. The fluid such that the flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides across the main supply port is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more so as to be line symmetric with respect to the main flow path. In addition to controlling the flow rate of (B), the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides as viewed from the main flow path is the same as that of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port. The flow rate ratio of fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) is controlled so as to be switchable between a state of less than 5 times and a state of more than 8 times the flow rate per unit time. is there.

  Therefore, in this way, by controlling the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A), the discharge destination of the fluid (A) can be controlled.

The sampling device according to the present invention supplies a linear main flow path, a main supply port for supplying fluid (A) to the main flow path in a substantially straight line, and a fluid (B) different from the fluid (A). And a side supply port provided in line symmetry within a range of 25 ° to 45 ° with respect to the main flow path, and line symmetry with respect to the main flow path for discharging the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B). A sampling device comprising a microdevice comprising a side discharge port provided in the main flow channel and a main discharge port for discharging fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) flowing through the main flow path, Supply means for supplying fluid to each of the side supply ports, acquisition means for acquiring the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) discharged from the side discharge port and / or the main discharge port, and the supply means Is line symmetric with respect to the main flow path. And controlling the flow rate of the fluid (B) so that the flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides across the main supply port becomes 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, respectively. The flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides when viewed from the main flow path is 5 with respect to the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port. A control means for controlling the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) so as to be switchable between a state of less than twice and a state of more than 8 times; The total flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the supply port becomes 8 times or more from a state less than 5 times the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port. That the acquisition means starts to acquire the fluid. A structure and means. Therefore, for example, in a state where the total flow rate of the fluid (fluid (B) and fluid (A)) is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, usually the flow rate of fluid (B) / fluid (A) When the fluid (B) and the fluid (A) are supplied so that the flow rate of the fluid is about 2 and sampling is desired, the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is set to 8 or more. The fluid (A) can be discharged from the side flow path, and sampling can be performed.

  An embodiment of the present invention will be described as follows. That is, the flow control method according to the present invention is provided in a line-symmetric manner with respect to the linear main flow path through which the fluid (A) flows, a main supply port that supplies the fluid (A) to the main flow path, and the main flow path. Laminar flow in the microchannel of the microdevice having a supply port for supplying the fluid (B) to the main channel, a side discharge port provided symmetrically with respect to the main channel, and the main discharge port Is a flow control method for controlling the fluid flowing in the above, and is a method for controlling the flow and discharge destination of the fluid by controlling the flow rates of the fluid (A) and the fluid (B).

  In the present invention, the flow path (sometimes referred to as “micro channel” or “micro flow path”) refers to a space (cavity) in which the fluid moves in or through the flow path. In addition to channels, reaction channels, detection channels, extraction and other processing channels, and spaces for valves and pumps are also included in the channels. The main flow path in the present invention indicates a space in which a plurality of different fluids flow in a laminar flow state.

  FIG. 1 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of a flow control apparatus (hereinafter referred to as a micro device) according to the present embodiment. Here, the configuration of the microdevice will be described. In the following description, a description will be given of a configuration in which two discharge ports are provided symmetrically (line symmetric) with respect to the main flow path.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the microdevice 10 has a μm-sized channel formed between two plate-like members (an upper plate 11 and a lower plate 12). As the method of forming the flow path, two plate-like members may be bonded to each other after forming a fine flow path by etching or the like on each of the two plate-like members. After the flow path is formed only on the plate member, the other plate member may be bonded. Then, on the upper plate 11 constituting the micro device 10, three supply ports (one main supply port 21 and two side supply ports 22) for supplying fluid and the fluid are discharged from the flow path. There are provided outlets (one main outlet 23 and two side outlets 24). In addition, about the position which provides the said supply port and discharge port, a supply port may be provided in the upper board 11, and a discharge port may be provided in the lower board 12, for example. Alternatively, the main supply port 21 may be provided in the upper plate 11 and the two side supply ports 22 may be provided in the lower plate 12.

  The microdevice 10 has a structure in which three flow paths merge to form one main flow path 30 and further branch into three. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the micro device 10 includes three regions, a main channel 30 (main channel region), a supply port region 31 and a discharge port region 32.

  The wall surface material constituting the flow path varies depending on the material of the fluid that passes through the flow path, but examples thereof include glass, cellulose, poval, silicon, metal, and the like, among which silicon and glass are suitable. .

  The supply port region 31 is a region that supplies fluid to the main flow path 30. In the present embodiment, the supply port region 31 is composed of three supply ports, a main supply port 21 and two side supply ports 22.

  The main supply port 21 is disposed between the two side supply ports 22 and supplies the fluid (A) to the vicinity of the center of the main flow path 30. That is, the fluid (A) is supplied from the main supply port 21. The two side supply ports 22 are provided symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the main flow path 30 (the central axis in the fluid flow direction). Then, a fluid (B) different from the fluid (A) is supplied from the side supply port 22. In the present embodiment, the supply port indicates a portion including a portion that supplies a fluid to the main flow path 30. That is, the supply port in the present embodiment does not simply indicate the input port through which the fluid is input, but includes the input port and the flow path until the fluid input from the input port flows into the main flow path 30. Is. In the following description, an example in which the fluid (A) is supplied from the main supply port 21 and the fluid (B) is supplied from the two side supply ports 22 will be described.

  The main channel 30 is a channel through which fluids (fluid (A) and fluid (B)) supplied from the main supply port 21 and the side supply port 22 flow. The main flow path 30 is linear.

  The discharge port region 32 is a region for separating and discharging the fluid flowing through the main flow path 30. In the present embodiment, the discharge port region 32 includes three discharge ports, a main discharge port 23 and two side discharge ports 24.

  The main discharge port 23 separates and discharges the fluid in the vicinity of the center of the main flow path 30 out of the fluid flowing through the main flow path 30. The two side discharge ports 24 separate and discharge the fluid on both ends of the main channel 30 out of the fluid flowing through the main channel 30. The two side outlets 24 are provided symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the main flow path 30. In addition, in this Embodiment, the discharge port has shown the thing containing the part which isolate | separates the fluid which flows into the main flow path 30. FIG. That is, the discharge port in the present embodiment does not simply indicate a discharge port for taking out the fluid, but is a combination of the take-out port and the flow path from which the fluid separated from the main flow path 30 reaches the discharge port. .

  As described above, the microdevice 10 according to the present embodiment includes the main supply port 21, the side supply port 22, the main channel 30, the main discharge port 23, and the side supply port 22.

  FIG. 4 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the main channel 30 and each supply port. Here, each supply port and the main flow path 30 will be described in detail.

  The width (cross-sectional area) between the main supply port 21 and the two side supply ports 22 may be set to be proportional to the flow rate of the fluid supplied from each supply port, but is more preferably the same as each other. preferable. In the present embodiment, the widths of the main channel 30 and the two side channels are each set to 200 μm. The depths of the main channel 30 and the two side channels are also set to 200 μm.

  The width (cross-sectional area) of the main channel 30 is more preferably the same as the width (cross-sectional area) of all the supply ports. The width of the main flow path 30 in the present embodiment is set to 600 μm. When the width of the main flow path 30 is set to be remarkably smaller than the sum of the widths of all the supply ports (the width of the flow paths that merge with the main flow path 30), fluid is supplied from any of the supply ports. It may become impossible to supply. On the other hand, when the width of the main flow path 30 is significantly larger than the total width of all the supply ports, the supplied fluid may not flow in the main flow path 30 in a laminar flow state.

  In addition, about the cross-sectional shape of the said main flow path 30 and a supply port, a rectangular (square) shape may be sufficient and a circular shape may be sufficient.

The cross-sectional area in the cross-sectional shape of the main channel 30 or the supply port is more preferably in the range of 5 × 10 ⁻¹² m ² to 1 × 10 ⁻⁵ m ² , and 1 × 10 ⁻⁹ m ² to 1 × 10 ^−. A range of ⁵ m ² is particularly preferred. When the cross-sectional area is smaller than 5 × 10 ⁻¹² m ² , pressure loss (pressure loss) may be large and fluid may not flow. On the other hand, if the cross-sectional area is larger than 1 × 10 ⁻⁵ m ² , it may be impossible to control the fluid flowing through the main flow path 30.

  Next, the positional relationship between the side supply port 22 and the main flow path 30 will be described. The two side supply ports 22 are provided symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the main flow path 30 so as to be within a range of 25 ° to 45 °, more preferably within a range of 30 ° to 45 °. Yes. In other words, the direction of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port 22 is within a range of 25 ° to 45 ° with respect to the flow direction of the fluid (A) flowing through the main flow path 30, and more preferably 30 ° to A side supply port 22 is provided so as to flow into the main flow path 30 within a range of 45 °. In the following description, the direction of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port 22 with respect to the direction of the fluid (A) flowing through the main channel 30, that is, the side supply port with respect to the extending direction of the main channel 30. The angle at which 22 is provided will be described as a merging angle 40.

  When the fluid (B) flowing from the side supply port 22 joins the fluid (A) at an angle smaller than 25 °, that is, when the joining angle 40 is smaller than 25 °, the control of the fluid flowing through the main flow path 30 is performed. It may be impossible. On the other hand, when the fluid (B) flowing from the side supply port 22 joins the fluid (A) at an angle larger than 45 °, that is, when the merging angle 40 is larger than 45 °, the fluid flowing through the main channel 30 It may be difficult to flow in a laminar flow state.

  Next, the discharge port will be described. The two discharge ports are provided symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the main flow path 30 so as to be within a range of 5 ° to 60 °, and more preferably within a range of 15 ° to 30 °. In other words, the direction of the fluid (B) discharged from the side discharge port 24 is within a range of 5 ° to 60 ° with respect to the flow direction of the fluid (A) flowing through the main flow path 30, and more preferably 15 ° to A side discharge port 24 is provided so as to flow into the main flow path 30 within a range of 30 °. In the following description, the flow direction of the fluid (B) discharged from the side discharge port 24 with respect to the flow direction of the fluid (A) flowing through the main flow path 30, that is, the side discharge with respect to the extending direction of the main flow path 30. The angle at which the outlet 24 is provided will be described as the discharge angle 41.

  When the discharge angle 41 is smaller than 5 °, it is difficult to manufacture such a micro device. On the other hand, when the discharge angle 41 is larger than 60 °, the fluid may not be discharged from the side discharge port 24.

  The merging angle 40 and the discharge angle 41 may be the same or different. The confluence angle 40 is an angle measured from the upstream side with respect to the flow direction of the fluid flowing through the main flow path 30, while the discharge angle 41 is an angle measured from the downstream side with respect to the flow direction of the fluid. .

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a flow control device 1 according to the present embodiment. The flow control device 1 includes a control device 3 (control means) for controlling the flow rate per unit time of the fluid supplied from the main supply port 21 and the side supply port 22 via the microsyringe 2 (supply means). I have. A specific control method will be described below.

  A microsyringe pump (hereinafter referred to as a microsyringe 2) is provided at the charging port for supplying the fluid from the main supply port 21 and the side supply port 22 of the microdevice 10. A fluid is supplied through the microsyringe 2. The microsyringe 2 includes a main microsyringe 2 a that supplies the fluid (A) to the main supply port 21 and a sub-microsyringe 2 b that supplies the fluid (B) to the side supply port 22.

  The control device 3 controls the flow rate of fluid supplied from the main supply port 21 and the side supply port 22 per unit time. Specifically, the control device 3 controls the microsyringe 2 attached to each supply port to adjust the pressure for supplying fluid from each supply port. As for a specific control method, for example, the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) may be changed according to the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A). Depending on the flow rate, the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) may be changed, or the fluid (A) and the fluid (B) may be supplied so as to have a preset flow rate per unit time. Good. And the said control apparatus 3 changes the flow volume per unit time of fluid (B) / fluid (A) according to an operator's instruction | indication. Thereby, the discharge destination of the fluid (A) can be controlled.

  In the present embodiment, such a micro device 10 is used to control the flow of the fluid flowing in the main flow path 30. More specifically, the fluid flowing through the main flow path 30 by controlling the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 and the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port 22. Flow control is performed.

Here, the flow control method according to the present embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, by controlling the flow rates per unit time of different fluids (A) and fluid (B) supplied to the main flow path 30, the discharge destinations of the fluid (A) and the fluid (B) are controlled. I have control. More specifically, (1) From the both sides of the fluid (A), the fluid (B) is placed so that the merging angle 40 is in the range of 25 ° to 45 ° with respect to the flow direction of the fluid (A). (2) The total flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports 22 on both sides of the main supply port 21 so as to be line-symmetric with respect to the main flow path 30 is 0.9 m ³ / The flow rate of the fluid (B) is controlled so as to be not less than m ² · s, and (3) the total per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied to the side supply ports 22 on both sides when viewed from the main flow path 30 The fluid (A) and the fluid (A) and the fluid (A) can be switched between a state where the flow rate is less than 5 times and a state where the flow rate is 8 times or more of the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21. The flow ratio of fluid (B) is controlled. When a plurality of the side supply ports 22 are provided on one side as viewed from the main flow path 30 (the same number on the opposite side), the total amount of fluid supplied from one side of these side supply ports 22 is calculated. Let it be the flow rate of the fluid supplied from one side supply port 22. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, when three side supply ports 22 are provided on both sides of the main flow path 30, the fluid supplied from the three side supply ports 22. Is the flow rate per unit time supplied from the side supply port 22 on one side. Further, for example, as described above, there are three side channels on both sides of the main channel 30, and different fluids are supplied from each of the three side channels. Even in this case, the total amount of fluid supplied from the three side flow paths becomes the supply amount per unit time supplied from the one side supply port 22.

  The fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) so that the merging angle 40 is in the range of 25 ° to 45 ° and the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) / fluid (A) is 8 times or more. ) Is controlled, the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 is discharged from only the two side discharge ports 24 without being discharged from the main discharge port 23.

  On the other hand, the fluid (A) and / or the fluid such that the merging angle 40 is in the range of 25 ° to 45 ° and the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) / fluid (A) is less than 5 times. When the flow rate of (B) is controlled, the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 is discharged only from the main discharge port 23 or from the main discharge port 23 and the two side discharge ports 24. . Moreover, the fluid flowing through the main flow path 30 may be in a turbulent state.

  In addition, when the merging angle 40 is smaller than 25 °, the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 does not depend on the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) / fluid (A). It is discharged only from the discharge port 23 or from the main discharge port 23 and the two side discharge ports 24. On the other hand, when the merging angle 40 is larger than 45 °, the pressure loss increases, so that there are cases where the fluid cannot be supplied from the supply port.

Furthermore, in the flow control method according to the present embodiment, the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports 23 on both sides of the main supply port 21 is 0. ^{9m 3 / m 2 · s~20m 3} / m 2 · s , more preferably within the range of to be within a range of ^{0.9m 3 / m 2 · s~10m 3} / m 2 · s, the fluid (B ).

When the flow rate per unit time passing through the unit area is less than 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s, the flow rate is too small to be controlled. On the other hand, when the flow rate per unit area is larger than 20 m ³ / m ² · s, the fluid (A) and the fluid (B) may not be supplied to the main supply port 21 or the side supply port 23. .

  The flow rate per unit time passing through the unit area of the main supply port 21 or the side supply port 23 is precisely the unit area of the flow path until the fluid input from the input port flows into the main flow path 30. Is the flow rate per unit time passing through.

  Further, the flow rate per unit time of the fluid supplied from the side supply port 22 arranged in line symmetry with the main flow path 30 is the same.

  Here, the fluid (fluid (A) and fluid (B)) supplied to the flow path will be described. The fluid that can perform the fluid control of the present embodiment may be an arbitrary liquid. For example, the fluid may be a dispersion (a fluid in which a dispersoid is dispersed in a dispersion medium) in addition to a solution. What is necessary is just to select the fluid supplied to a flow path suitably with the material etc. which form the flow path.

  And it is preferable that the surface tension difference of the fluid (A) and the fluid (B) is small. When fluids having a large difference in surface tension are merged in the main flow path 30, a laminar flow state may not be achieved. Specifically, the difference in surface tension between the fluid (A) and the fluid (B) is 40 mN / m (40 dyne / cm) or less, preferably 10 mN / m (10 dyne / cm) or less. When the surface tension difference is larger than 40 mN / m (40 dyne / cm), it becomes difficult for the fluid to flow through the main channel 30 in a laminar flow state, and the flow control becomes difficult.

  As described above, the discharge angle of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 is controlled by controlling the flow rate of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) when the merging angle 40 is within the above range. Can be controlled.

  And the said flow control method can be utilized suitably for an inkjet apparatus, for example. Specifically, for example, when ink is supplied to the main flow path 30 and a transparent fluid such as water is supplied to the side flow path, the ink is discharged (discharged) from the main discharge port 23 by using the above flow control method. ) The state can be controlled. That is, for example, the ink ejection state can be controlled more easily than a configuration in which the ink ejection state is controlled using a conventional piezoelectric element or the like.

  Moreover, the said flow control method can be utilized suitably for the sampling apparatus 50, for example. Hereinafter, the sampling device 50 will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the sampling device 50. In the drawing, the dotted line indicates the movement of the fluid, and the solid line indicates the movement of the signal. The sampling device 50 includes a micro device 10, a micro syringe 2, a command device 4, an acquisition unit 6, and an operation unit 5. The instruction device 4 includes a control device 3. The micro device 10 and the micro syringe 2 are the same as described above. The control device 3 controls the supply amount (flow rate per unit time) of the fluid (fluid (A) and fluid (B)) supplied from the microsyringe 2 to the microdevice 10. Further, the command device 4 operates the control device 3 to control the supply amount of the fluids (A) and (B) and also controls the receiver moving unit 8 of the acquisition unit 6.

  The operation unit 5 is operated by an operator who operates the sampling device 50. That is, the operation unit 5 receives a sampling start command and a sampling end command issued from the operator. For example, when the sampling device 50 is set to automatically perform sampling at a predetermined time, the operation unit 5 instructs the command device 4 when a predetermined time comes. A sampling start command or a sampling end command may be issued.

  The acquisition unit 6 acquires the fluid discharged from the microdevice 10 for each discharge port. The acquisition unit 6 includes a receiver 7 and a receiver moving unit 8. The receptacle 7 acquires the said fluid, such as a flask, for example. The receiver moving unit 8 changes the receiver 7 connected to the discharge port of the micro device 10. That is, the receiver 7 that acquires the fluid discharged from the discharge port can be changed by the receiver moving unit 8. Note that the receiver moving unit 8 may move the receiver 7 itself, or may start or end the acquisition of the fluid discharged from the discharge port with respect to the specific receiver 7. Good.

  Here, a sampling method of the fluid flowing through the flow path of the micro device 10 using the sampling apparatus 50 will be described.

  First, the flow rate per unit time of fluid (B) / fluid (A) is less than 5, specifically, the flow rate per unit time of fluid (B) / fluid (A) is about 2. Thus, when the fluid (A) and the fluid (B) are supplied to the main flow path 30, the fluid (A) is discharged only from the main discharge port 23.

  The operator operating the sampling device 50 issues a sampling start command to the control device 3 when sampling is performed. The control device 3 that has received the start command from the operator changes the supply amount of the fluid (A) or the fluid (B) by controlling the microsyringe 2. That is, the control device 3 controls the supply amounts of the fluid (A) and the fluid (B) so that the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) / fluid (A) is 8 or more. Thereby, the liquid (A) is discharged from the side discharge port 24.

  In addition, the control device 3 changes the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) / fluid (A) supplied to the main flow path 30 via the microsyringe 2 and at the same time, Send sampling instructions. The acquisition unit 6 that has received the sampling command operates the receiver moving unit 8 to acquire the liquid containing the fluid (A) discharged from at least one of the two side discharge ports 24.

  Then, after a predetermined time has elapsed or when a sampling end command is received from the operator, the control device 3 changes the supply amount of the fluid (A) or the fluid (B) by controlling the microsyringe 2. . That is, the control device 3 controls the supply amounts of the fluid (A) and the fluid (B) so that the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) / fluid (A) is less than 5 (here, 2). Control. Thereby, the liquid (A) is discharged from the main discharge port 23.

  In addition, the control device 3 changes the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) / fluid (A) supplied to the main flow path 30 via the microsyringe 2 and at the same time, Send sampling complete command. The acquisition unit 6 that has received the sampling end command operates the receiver moving unit 8 to end the acquisition of the liquid containing the fluid (A) discharged from at least one of the two side discharge ports 24. Thereby, the fluid (A) can be sampled. In other words, the flow of the fluid (A) can be controlled.

  In the above description, the configuration in which the fluid (B) is supplied from the two side supply ports 22 has been described. For example, different fluids may be supplied from the two side supply ports 22. In this case, the fluid supplied from the two side supply ports 22 is, for example, the same as the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 with the fluid supplied from one side supply port 22. The fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 may be different from the fluid (A). However, it is more preferable that the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 and the fluid supplied from the side supply port 22 have surface tensions close to each other.

  In addition, the number of the side supply ports 22 may be provided in a plurality as long as the line is symmetrical with respect to the main flow path 30. Specifically, for example, two side supply ports 22 may be formed on the left and right sides with respect to the central axis of the main flow path 30. Even when a plurality of the side supply ports 22 are provided, all the side supply ports 22 are provided symmetrically with respect to the main flow path 30 so as to be within a range of 25 ° to 45 °. Further, the number of the side discharge ports 24 may be provided as long as it is line symmetric with respect to the main flow path 30. Furthermore, the number of the side supply ports 22 and the side discharge ports 24 may be the same or different.

  In the above description, as a method of forming a flow path, a configuration in which two plate-like members are bonded is described. For example, a hole that becomes a flow path is formed (a region that becomes a flow path is formed). ) A flow path may be formed by sandwiching a plate member between two plate members. In this case, the thickness of the middle plate member corresponds to the depth of the flow path.

  In the above description, when sampling is performed, the fluid (A) discharged from the side supply port 22 is sampled when the flow rate of the fluid (B) / flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more. Although an example has been described, for example, when sampling the fluid (A) discharged from the main supply port 21, the following may be performed.

  That is, for example, when the fluid (B) and the fluid (A) are supplied so that the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is always 8 or more and sampling is desired, the fluid (B) The fluid (A) can be discharged from the main flow path 30 by setting the flow rate / fluid (A) flow rate to less than 5, and the fluid (A) may be sampled. The flow rate of the fluid (B) and the fluid (A) is controlled again so that the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more, so that the fluid (A ) Will be discharged.

  In other words, the fluid (A) can be discharged from the main channel 30 only when the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is less than 5.

As described above, the flow control method according to the present embodiment includes the linear main channel 30, the main supply port 21 that supplies the fluid (A) to the main channel 30 in a substantially linear shape, and the fluid (A Side supply port 22 provided in line symmetry within a range of 25 ° to 45 ° with respect to the main flow path 30 in order to supply a fluid (B) different from), and the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B ) And a main discharge port 23 for discharging the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) flowing through the main flow channel 30. A flow control method for controlling a fluid flowing in a laminar flow state in the main flow path 30 of the microdevice 10, which is supplied on both sides of the main supply port 21 so as to be symmetrical with respect to the main flow path 30. 0.9m total flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the mouth 22, respectively ³ As will be m 2 ^· s or more, to control the flow rate of the fluid (B), the total flow rate per unit of time the fluid (B) to be supplied from both sides of the side feed port 22 as viewed from the main flow path 30 is The fluid (A) and / or the fluid (A) and / or the state in which the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 can be switched between a state of less than 5 times and a state of more than 8 times the flow rate per unit time. By controlling the flow rate ratio of the fluid (B), the discharge destination of the fluid (A) is changed.

  A fluid (B) different from the fluid (A) from the side supply port 22 is symmetrical with respect to the main channel 30 with respect to the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 of the microdevice 10 and flowing through the main channel 30. When supplied in such a manner, different fluids (fluid (A) and fluid (B)) flow in a laminar flow in the microchannel (main flow channel 30). Normally, the fluid (A) flowing through the main flow path 30 is discharged only from the main discharge port 23 or from the main discharge port 23 and the side discharge port 24. When the fluid (A) flowing through the main flow path 30 is not discharged from the side discharge port 24 but only from the main discharge port 23, the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 and the side supply port 22 are discharged. The fluid (B) supplied from the fluid flows in a laminar flow state so as to be adjacent to each other in the main flow path 30. Such a microdevice 10 is used to perform operations such as chemical reaction and extraction between different fluid layers flowing in a laminar flow in the microchannel.

According to the above configuration, in the microchannel including the main supply port 21 and the side supply port 22 provided symmetrically with respect to the main flow path 30 so as to be within a range of 25 ° to 45 °. The total flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports 22 on both sides of the main supply port 21 so as to be line symmetric with respect to the main flow path 30 is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, respectively. The flow rate of the fluid (B) is controlled so that the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 from the side supply ports 22 on both sides as viewed from the main flow path 30 is The total flow rate per unit time of the supplied fluid (B), that is, the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is switched between a state where it is less than 5 and a state where it is 8 or more. Fluid (A) and / or flow as possible The flow ratio of the body (B) is controlled. Specifically, the flow path ratio is controlled by controlling the flow rate of at least one of the fluid (A) or the fluid (B) supplied to the main supply port 21 or the side supply port 22.

The total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports 22 on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / flow rate of the fluid (A) is less than 5. When the flow rate of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled, the fluid (A) flows into the main channel 30 or the main channel 30 and the side discharge port 24. On the other hand, the total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports 22 on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of fluid (B) / flow rate of fluid (A) per unit time is 8 When the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled as described above, the fluid (A) is discharged from the side discharge port 24. Even when the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled so that the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more, When the total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the supply port 22 is smaller than 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s, the fluid (A) flows through the main discharge port 23 or the main discharge port 23 and the side discharge port 24. It will flow to.

That is, the total flow rate of the fluid (fluid (B) and fluid (A)) supplied to the side supply ports 22 on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, respectively, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / When the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more, the fluid (A) supplied to the main flow path 30 flows through the end of the main flow path 30 due to the influence of the fluid (B), and enters the side discharge port 24. It will flow. Therefore, the total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports 22 on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / flow rate of the fluid (A) is set on the side supply ports on both sides. The fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is allowed to flow so as to be 8 or more at 22, so that the fluid (A) is discharged from the side discharge port 24 without being discharged from the main discharge port 23. Can do.

  Thus, the discharge destination of the fluid (A) can be controlled by controlling the flow rate ratio of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A).

  In addition, compared to the conventional configuration in which a valve or the like is physically provided to control the flow of the fluid, the flow control of the fluid can be performed without adding a special configuration such as the valve. In addition, since the microdevice 10 has a flow path or the like having a μm size, when a conventional valve or the like is provided, the apparatus becomes large, but by controlling the fluid flow as in the above configuration, It is possible to provide a flow control device 1 that is smaller and can easily control the flow of fluid.

Moreover, the flow control method according to the present embodiment preferably has a configuration in which the cross-sectional area of the main flow path 30 is 5 × 10 ⁻¹² m ² to 1 × 10 ⁻⁵ m ² .

  According to the above configuration, by setting the cross-sectional area in the microchannel, that is, the cross-sectional area of the main flow path 30 in which the fluid flows, within the above range, the flow rates of the fluid (A) and the fluid (B) (that is, the fluid ( The flow rate ratio between A) and fluid (B) can be easily controlled.

  Further, the flow control method according to the present embodiment allows the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port 22 to have the same flow rate per unit time on both sides of the main supply port 21. ).

  According to the above configuration, the fluid (B) is supplied so that the flow rates per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports 22 located on both sides of the main channel 30 are the same. is doing. Thereby, with respect to the fluid (A) flowing through the main flow path 30, the fluid (B) can be evenly supplied from both sides. Therefore, the flow of the fluid flowing through the main flow path 30 can be more easily controlled.

In addition, the flow control device 1 according to the present embodiment includes a linear main channel 30, a main supply port 21 that supplies the fluid (A) to the main channel 30 in a substantially linear shape, and the fluid (A). In order to supply a different fluid (B), the side supply port 22 provided in line symmetry within a range of 25 ° to 45 ° with respect to the main flow path 30, and the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) A micro outlet provided with a side discharge port 24 provided in line symmetry with respect to the main flow path 30 for discharge and a main discharge port 23 for discharging the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) flowing through the main flow path 30. A flow control device 1 for controlling a flow direction of a fluid flowing in a laminar flow state in a main flow path 30 of the device 10, the micro syringe 2 supplying fluid to each of the main supply port 21 and the side supply port 22; Unit time of fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) And a control device 3 for controlling the flow rate of the hit, the control device 3 from the side supply ports 22 on both sides across the main supply port so as to be axisymmetric with respect to the main flow path 30 by the microsyringe 2. The flow rate of the fluid (B) is controlled so that the total flow rate of the supplied fluid (B) is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the side supply ports on both sides as viewed from the main channel 30 The total flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from 22 is less than 5 times and 8 times the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21, respectively. The flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled so as to be switchable between the above states.

According to the above configuration, in the microdevice 10 including the side supply ports 22 provided symmetrically with respect to the main flow path 30 so as to be within a range of 25 ° to 45 °, the side supply ports on both sides are provided. The total flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports 22 on both sides when viewed from the main flow path 30 is set to 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more. In order to switch between a state in which the flow rate is less than 5 times and a state in which the flow rate is 8 times or more of the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21, the fluid ( The flow rate ratio of A) and / or fluid (B) is controlled.

The total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports 22 on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / flow rate of the fluid (A) is less than 5. When the flow rate of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled, the fluid (A) flows to the main discharge port 23 or the main discharge port 23 and the side discharge port 24. On the other hand, the total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports 22 on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of fluid (B) / flow rate of fluid (A) per unit time is 8 When the flow rate of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled as described above, the fluid (A) flows only to the side discharge port 24. Further, even when the flow rate of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled so that the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more, the side supply on both sides is performed. When the total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the port 22 is smaller than 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s, the fluid (A) flows into the main discharge port 23 or the main discharge port 23 and the side discharge port 24. Will flow.

Specifically, the total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports 22 on both sides is set to 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 In the above case, the fluid (A) supplied to the main channel 30 flows through the end of the main channel 30 due to the influence of the fluid (B), and as a result, is discharged from the side discharge port 24. . Accordingly, the total flow rate of the fluid supplied from the side supply ports 22 on both sides is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more. In addition, by supplying the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B), the fluid (A) can be discharged only from the side discharge port 24 without being discharged from the main discharge port 23.

  Thus, the discharge destination of the fluid (A) can be controlled by controlling the flow rate ratio of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A).

  The ink jet device according to the present embodiment is configured to include the flow control device 1. The flow control device 1 can control the flow of the fluid supplied by the microsyringe 2. Specifically, the discharge destination of the fluid (A) can be changed by controlling the flow rate (flow rate ratio) of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B). Therefore, for example, when ink is flowed as the fluid (A), the ink discharge destination can be controlled by controlling the flow rate of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B). That is, when ink is ejected from the main flow path 30 and image formation is performed, the ink ejection can be controlled by controlling the ink discharge destination. Thereby, it can utilize as an inkjet apparatus.

The sampling device 50 according to the present embodiment includes a linear main channel 30, a main supply port 21 that supplies the fluid (A) to the main channel 30 in a substantially linear shape, and a fluid different from the fluid (A) ( In order to discharge the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B), the side supply port 22 provided in line symmetry within a range of 25 ° to 45 ° with respect to the main flow path 30 to supply B). The microdevice 10 is provided with a side discharge port 24 provided symmetrically with respect to the main flow path 30 and a main discharge port 23 for discharging the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) flowing through the main flow path 30. A sampling device 50 provided with the microsyringe 2 for supplying fluid to each of the main supply port 21 and the side supply port 22 and the fluid discharged from the side discharge port 24 and / or the main discharge port 23 ( A) and / or flow The fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port 22 so as to be line-symmetric with respect to the main channel 30 on both sides with the main supply port 21 sandwiched between the acquisition unit 6 that acquires the body (B) and the microsyringe 2 ), The flow rate of the fluid (B) is controlled so that the total flow rate becomes 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the fluid supplied from the side supply ports 22 on both sides when viewed from the main flow path 30. The total flow rate per unit time of (B) is switched between a state where the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 is less than 5 times and a state where it is 8 times or more. The unit of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port 22 on one side as viewed from the main flow path 30 and the control device 3 for controlling the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B). Fluid whose total flow rate per hour is supplied from the main supply port 21 And a command device 4 for starting acquisition of fluid by the acquisition unit 6 when it is detected that the flow rate per unit time in A) is less than 5 times or more than 8 times the flow rate per unit time. .

The total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports 22 on both sides by the microsyringe 2 is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) per unit time / fluid (A) When the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) is controlled so that the flow rate becomes 8 or more, the fluid (A) flows only to the side discharge port 24. That is, the total flow rate of the fluid supplied to the side supply ports 22 on both sides by the microsyringe 2 is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / flow rate of the fluid (A). Is 8 or more, the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 flows through the end of the main flow path 30 due to the influence of the fluid (B) and flows to the side discharge port 24. Accordingly, the total flow rate of the fluid (B) on both sides when viewed from the fluid (A) is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, and the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more. As described above, by flowing the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B), the fluid (A) can be discharged from the side discharge port 24 without being discharged from the main flow path 30.

  When the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is 5 or less, for example, about 2, the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21 is not discharged from the side discharge port 24. Are discharged only from the main outlet 23. Therefore, for example, the fluid (B) and the fluid (A) are usually supplied so that the flow rate of the fluid (B) / the flow rate of the fluid (A) is about 2, and the fluid (B ) / Flow rate of the fluid (A) is 8 or more, the fluid (A) can be discharged from the side flow path, and sampling can be performed.

  In the sampling device 50 according to the present embodiment, the command device 4 is a unit of the fluid (A) in which the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied to the side supply port 22 is supplied to the main channel 30. The fluid (A) in which the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied to the side supply port 22 is supplied to the main flow path 30 after detecting that the flow rate per unit time is 8 times or more. It is more preferable that the acquisition of the fluid by the acquisition unit 6 is terminated when it is detected that the flow rate per unit time is less than 5 times.

  With the above configuration, the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied to the side supply port 22 is five times the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied to the main flow path 30. Sampling can be terminated when the value is less than the value.

  The flow control method according to the present embodiment is a flow control method of a fluid in a microchannel in the microdevice 10, and a flow path through which a controlled fluid (fluid (A)) flows can be introduced into the flow path system. The individuality which switches the flow path through which the controlled fluid flows may be obtained by using two or more flow path fluids (fluid (B)).

  In addition, the flow control method according to the present embodiment preferably has a configuration in which the main supply port 21 is sandwiched between two or more side supply ports 22.

  Further, in the flow control method according to the present embodiment, the flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port 22 is 8 to 100 times the flow rate of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port 21. It is more preferable to supply the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B).

  According to the present invention, a small flow path through which a controlled fluid flows is used, and a fluid flowing in two or more side paths sandwiching the minute flow path is used. The flow path through which the controlled fluid flows can be switched by adjusting the angle at which the fluid flows.

  It is more preferable that the main supply port 21 and the main discharge port 23 are provided one by one.

  The side supply ports 22 are more preferably provided on both sides of the main supply port 21.

  The side discharge ports 24 are more preferably provided on both sides of the main discharge port 23, respectively.

  EXAMPLES Hereinafter, although an Example and a comparative example demonstrate this invention further in detail, this invention is not limited at all by these.

[Production example of flow control device 1]
First, grooves having a predetermined width and depth were formed on a silicon substrate (single crystal silicon wafer 100 mmφ, thickness 0.5 mm) using photolithography and dry etching techniques (groove processing).

  Next, a microchannel was formed by bonding a glass substrate to the silicon substrate having been subjected to the groove processing by an anodic bonding technique. The glass substrate to be bonded to the silicon substrate is previously formed with holes for fluid entry and exit (corresponding to the inlet and outlet) at positions corresponding to the start and end points of the microchannel when bonded. The silicon substrate and the glass substrate were aligned when the substrates were bonded together.

  And the flow control apparatus 1 (microdevice 10) was produced by cutting a microchannel part using a dicing technique, and welding the stainless steel connector to the hole for the entrance / exit of the said fluid.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the lengths of the microchannels are as follows: supply port (main supply port 21, side supply port 22) length L1: 15 mm, main flow path 30 length L2: 25 mm, discharge port Length (main discharge port 23, side discharge port 24) L3: 15 mm, main flow channel 30 width w1: 600 μm, supply port width w2: 200 μm, main flow channel 30 and supply port depth d1: 200 μm. Moreover, the angle of the flow direction of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port 22 with respect to the flow direction of the main flow path 30, that is, the merging angle 40 was 30 °. In addition, the flow direction of the fluid (fluid (A) and / or fluid (B)) discharged from the side discharge port 24 with respect to the flow direction of the main flow path 30, that is, the discharge angle 41 was 15 °. In the following comparative examples, there is also a case where an experiment is performed in the case where the discharge port and the supply port are reversed using the micro device 10.

[Example 1]
Blue ink (CIAcid Blue 23) was dissolved in water to obtain a blue colored liquid (fluid (A)).

  Subsequently, using a micro syringe pump (IC3210, KD Scientific), a blue colored liquid was allowed to flow from the main supply port 21 of the micro device 10 at 0.2 ml / min. Next, transparent water (fluid (B)) was allowed to flow at 2.0 ml / min from the two side supply ports 22 using the micro syringe pump so that the merging angle 40 was 30 ° (at this time, The discharge angle 41 is 15 °). That is, fluid (B) / fluid (A) [flow rate per unit time] is 10.

  Thereafter, in the vicinity of the supply port of the main channel 30 (the junction where the blue colored liquid and transparent water merge), the central portion in the length direction of the main channel 30, and the vicinity of the discharge port of the main channel 30 (flows through the main channel 30 The fluid branch point was observed using a digital microscope (VH-8000, Keyence). The results are shown in FIG. 7A (near the supply port), FIG. 7B (center part of the main flow path 30), and FIG. 7C (near the discharge port).

  As a result, in the vicinity of the supply port, it was observed that the transparent water supplied from the side supply port 22 moved to the vicinity of the center of the width of the main flow path 30, and the blue colored liquid moved to the end of the flow path. . It was observed that the blue colored liquid was discharged from the side discharge port 24. That is, the blue colored liquid supplied from the main supply port 21 is not discharged from the main discharge port 23.

[Example 2]
A blue colored liquid is supplied from the main supply port 21 of the microdevice 10 at 0.1 ml / min, and transparent water (fluid (B)) is supplied from the two side supply ports 22 using the microsyringe pump to 2.0 ml / min. The same experiment as in Example 1 was performed except that the supply was performed in min. That is, fluid (B) / fluid (A) [flow rate per unit time] is 20. At this time, the total flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port on one side across the main flow path · s was about 0.93 m ³ / m ² · s.

  As a result, in the vicinity of the supply port, it was observed that the transparent water supplied from the side supply port 22 moved to the vicinity of the center of the width of the main flow path 30, and the blue colored liquid moved to the end of the flow path. . It was observed that the blue colored liquid was discharged from the side discharge port 24. That is, it can be seen that the blue colored liquid supplied from the main supply port 21 is not discharged from the main discharge port 23.

[Comparative Example 1]
Using the microdevice 10 of Example 1, the experiment was performed in the state where the supply port and the discharge port were reversed in Example 1 (the merging angle 40 and the discharge angle 41 were reversed). Specifically, the blue colored liquid was allowed to flow from the main supply port 21 at 0.05 ml / min using a micro syringe pump. Next, transparent water was allowed to flow at 0.1 ml / min from the two side supply ports 22 using the micro syringe pump so that the merging angle 40 was 15 ° (at this time, the discharge angle 41 was 30 °). That is, fluid (B) / fluid (A) [flow rate per unit time] is 2.

  Thereafter, as in Example 1, using the digital microscope, (a) the vicinity of the supply port, (b) the central portion of the main channel 30 in the length direction, and (c) the vicinity of the discharge port. Observed. The results are shown in FIGS. As a result, it was confirmed that the blue colored liquid supplied from the main supply port 21 flows in the main flow path 30 in a laminar flow and is discharged from the main discharge port 23.

[Comparative Example 2]
The same experiment as Comparative Example 1 was performed except that the blue colored liquid was allowed to flow from the main supply port 21 at 0.2 ml / min and transparent water was allowed to flow from the two side supply ports 22 at 2.0 ml / min. It was. That is, the same experiment as Comparative Example 1 was performed except that the condition of fluid (B) / fluid (A) [flow rate per unit time] was 10. And the result in the comparative example 2 is shown to Fig.9 (a)-(c). As a result, the blue colored liquid discharged from the main supply port 21 was discharged to the main supply port 21 and the two side discharge ports 24.

  It can be seen from the comparative example 2 and the example 1 that the merging angle 40 of the fluid (B) with respect to the fluid (A) is important.

[Comparative Example 3]
The same experiment as in Example 1 was performed except that the blue colored liquid was allowed to flow from the main supply port 21 at 0.05 ml / min and transparent water was allowed to flow from the two side supply ports 22 at 0.01 ml / min. . That is, the same experiment as in Example 1 was performed except that the condition of fluid (B) / fluid (A) [flow rate per unit time] was 2. And the result in the comparative example 3 is shown to Fig.10 (a)-(c). As a result, the blue colored liquid discharged from the main supply port 21 was discharged to the main supply port 21 and the two side discharge ports 24.

  According to Comparative Example 3 and Example 1, the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port 22 and the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main channel 30 You can see that the relationship is important.

[Comparative Example 4]
A blue colored liquid is supplied from the main supply port 21 of the microdevice 10 at 0.1 ml / min, and transparent water (fluid (B)) is supplied from the two side supply ports 22 using the microsyringe pump at 1.0 ml / min. The same experiment as in Comparative Example 1 was performed except that the supply was performed at min. That is, fluid (B) / fluid (A) [flow rate per unit time] is 10. At this time, the flow rates of the fluid (B) supplied from the two side supply ports 22 are each smaller than 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s. As a result, the blue colored liquid discharged from the main supply port 21 was discharged to the main supply port 21 and the two side discharge ports 24.

According to Comparative Example 4, even when the flow rate ratio of fluid (B) / fluid (A) per unit time is 8 or more, the flow rates of the fluid (B) supplied from the two side supply ports 22 are respectively It can be seen that favorable results cannot be obtained unless the ratio is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more. That is, it can be seen that the total flow rate of the fluid (B) and the fluid (A) supplied to the microdevice 10 is important.

[Comparative Example 5]
A blue colored liquid is supplied at 0.4 ml / min from the main supply port 21 of the microdevice 10, and clear water (fluid (B)) is supplied at 2.0 ml / min from the two side supply ports 22 using the micro syringe pump. The same experiment as in Comparative Example 1 was performed except that the supply was performed at min. That is, fluid (B) / fluid (A) [flow rate per unit time] is 5. At this time, the flow rates of the fluid (B) supplied from the two side supply ports 22 are each greater than 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s. As a result, the blue colored liquid discharged from the main supply port 21 was discharged to the main supply port 21 and the two side discharge ports 24.

According to Comparative Example 5, even when the flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the two side supply ports 22 is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, fluid (B) / fluid (A) [ It can be seen that when the flow rate per unit time] is smaller than 8, a favorable result cannot be obtained. That is, it is understood that the flow rate ratio per unit time of fluid (B) / fluid (A) is important.

  The flow control method of the present invention includes, for example, a microchemical device system such as a microdevice for chemical / biochemical reaction (microreactor), a membrane filtration device, and dialysis, in which a structure such as a microchannel and a reaction tank is formed. It can be used for chemical and physicochemical processing devices such as devices and extraction devices, and microanalytical devices (micro total analytical systems). The flow control device according to the present invention can also be used as an on-line sampling application in the field of microanalysis devices, and can be applied as an accurate fluid weighing device. Further, since the on / off function can be continuously acted, it can be suitably used for an ink jet apparatus or the like.

It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the outline of the flow control apparatus of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the outline structure of a microdevice. It is drawing explaining a flow path. It is drawing of the principal part of a main flow path. It is drawing which shows the example of another microdevice. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the sampling device concerning this invention. It is the photograph image by the microscope of the fluid which flows in the microchannel concerning Example 1, (a) vicinity of a supply port, (b) is the center part in the length direction of a main flow path, (c) is the discharge port vicinity. It is a photographic image. It is the photograph image by the microscope of the fluid which flows through the microchannel concerning the comparative example 1, (a) vicinity of a supply port, (b) is the center part in the length direction of a main flow path, (c) is a discharge port vicinity. It is a photographic image. It is the photograph image by the microscope of the fluid which flows through the microchannel concerning the comparative example 2, (a) is supply port vicinity, (b) is the center part in the length direction of a main flow path, (c) is discharge port vicinity. It is a photographic image. It is the photograph image by the microscope of the fluid which flows through the microchannel concerning the comparative example 3, (a) vicinity of a supply port, (b) is the center part in the length direction of a main flow path, (c) is a discharge port vicinity. It is a photographic image.

Explanation of symbols

1 Flow control device 2 Micro syringe (supply means)
3 Control device (control means)
4 Command device (command means)
5 Operation part 6 Acquisition part (acquisition means)
7 Receiving device 8 Receiving device moving unit 10 Micro device 21 Main supply port 22 Side supply port 23 Main discharge port 24 Side discharge port 30 Main flow path 40 Merge angle 41 Discharge angle 50 Sampling device

Claims (6)

A linear main flow path, a main supply port for supplying fluid (A) to the main flow path in a substantially straight line, and 25 ° with respect to the main flow path for supplying a fluid (B) different from the fluid (A). A side supply port provided in line symmetry within a range of ˜45 °, and a side discharge port provided in line symmetry with respect to the main flow path for discharging the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) A flow control method for controlling a fluid flowing in a laminar flow state in a main flow path of a microdevice having a fluid (A) flowing through the main flow path and / or a main discharge port for discharging the fluid (B),
Fluid such that the flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides of the main supply port is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more so as to be symmetrical with respect to the main flow path. In addition to controlling the flow rate of (B), the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides as viewed from the main flow path is the same as that of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port. By controlling the flow rate ratio of the fluid (A) and / or the fluid (B) so as to be switchable between a state of less than 5 times and a state of more than 8 times the flow rate per unit time, the fluid ( A flow control method characterized by changing the discharge destination of A). The flow control method according to claim 1, wherein a cross-sectional area of the main channel is 5 × 10 ⁻¹² m ² to 1 × 10 ⁻⁵ m ² . A linear main flow path, a main supply port for supplying fluid (A) to the main flow path in a substantially straight line, and 25 ° with respect to the main flow path for supplying a fluid (B) different from the fluid (A). A side supply port provided in line symmetry within a range of ˜45 °, and a side discharge port provided in line symmetry with respect to the main flow path for discharging the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) A flow control device for controlling a flow direction of a fluid flowing in a laminar flow state in a main flow path of a microdevice having a main discharge port for discharging a fluid (A) and / or a fluid (B) flowing through the main flow path. And
Supply means for supplying fluid to each of the main supply port and the side supply port;
Control means for controlling the flow rate per unit time of fluid (A) and / or fluid (B),
The control means is configured such that the flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides of the main supply port is 0.9 m ³ / m so as to be symmetrical with respect to the main flow path by the supply unit. The flow rate of the fluid (B) is controlled to be ² · s or more, and the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides when viewed from the main flow path is The flow rate of fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) can be switched between a state of less than 5 times and a state of more than 8 times the flow rate per unit time of fluid (A) supplied from A flow control device for controlling a ratio.   An ink jet apparatus comprising the flow control apparatus according to claim 3. A linear main flow path, a main supply port for supplying fluid (A) to the main flow path in a substantially straight line, and 25 ° with respect to the main flow path for supplying a fluid (B) different from the fluid (A). A side supply port provided in line symmetry within a range of ˜45 °, and a side discharge port provided in line symmetry with respect to the main flow path for discharging the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) A sampling device comprising a microdevice having a fluid (A) flowing through the main flow path and / or a main discharge port for discharging the fluid (B),
Supply means for supplying fluid to each of the main supply port and the side supply port;
Obtaining means for obtaining the fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) discharged from the side discharge port and / or the main discharge port;
The flow rate of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides across the main supply port so as to be symmetric with respect to the main flow path by the supply means is 0.9 m ³ / m ² · s or more, respectively. The flow rate of the fluid (B) is controlled so that the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply ports on both sides when viewed from the main flow path is the fluid supplied from the main supply port. Control for controlling the flow rate ratio of fluid (A) and / or fluid (B) so as to be switchable between a state of less than 5 times and a state of more than 8 times the flow rate per unit time of (A). Means,
The total flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied from the side supply port on one side as viewed from the main flow path is compared with the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied from the main supply port. A sampling device comprising: instruction means for starting acquisition of fluid by the acquisition means when it is detected that the ratio is less than 5 times or more than 8 times.   In the command means, the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied to the side supply port is more than eight times the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied to the main flow path. After detecting the above, the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (B) supplied to the side supply port is less than 5 times the flow rate per unit time of the fluid (A) supplied to the main flow path. 6. The sampling apparatus according to claim 5, wherein when the signal is detected, the acquisition of the fluid by the acquisition means is terminated.