JP2012112724A - Liquid feeder - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a compact liquid feeder capable of switching forward movement and stop of liquid easily.SOLUTION: The liquid feeder comprises: a flow channel; a liquid receiving part for feeding liquid to the flow channel; a discharge part for discharging liquid in the flow channel; a first absorber placed in the discharge part and/or the flow channel; and a second absorber placed closer to the liquid receiving part than the first absorber. In the liquid feeder, Q1+Q2≥Q0≥Q2 and F1≤F2 hold true, where total volume of the flow channel and the liquid receiving part is defined as Q0, a liquid absorption capacity of the first absorber as Q1, a liquid absorption capacity of the second absorber as Q2, absorbing power of the first absorber as F1, and absorbing power of the second absorber as F2.

Description

  The present invention relates to a liquid delivery device using a liquid absorber.

  In recent years, interest in POCT (Point Of Care Testing) has increased. POCT refers to a clinical test performed near a patient such as a hospital bedside or home, but according to POCT, the test result can be used immediately for patient treatment. Therefore, it is possible to perform high-quality treatment quickly. In order to realize such POCT, a small analyzer that can perform quick analysis with a simple operation is essential.

  The immunoassay is a useful analysis method widely used in the medical field, biochemical field, measurement field such as allergen and the like. However, conventional immunoassays require large instruments. Moreover, the analysis operation is complicated and requires more than a day for the analysis. For this reason, the conventional immunoassay cannot be applied to POCT.

In order to alleviate this problem, in recent years, a micro-analysis chip in which a micro-order channel is formed on a substrate and an antibody or the like is immobilized in the channel has been developed and put into practical use.
The micro analysis chip requires a solution feeding means that guides the solution such as the test solution to the reaction part and detection part in the chip and sends the solution downstream, but simple operation using a small amount of test solution The analysis can be carried out with this, and the analysis time can be shortened and the apparatus can be miniaturized.

  As a liquid feeding method that can be used for such a microanalysis chip, a method of feeding using a micropump, a method of feeding using a capillary phenomenon (interface tension) generated between a channel and a liquid, There is a method of feeding liquid by utilizing the liquid absorbing power of the absorber installed on the downstream side of the flow path. The technique concerning these systems is demonstrated.

JP 2008-128906 A JP 2006-220606 A JP 2001-88096 A

  Patent Document 1 proposes a technique for incorporating a micropump using a fine processing technique. If the system uses a micropump, reliable liquid feeding can be performed. However, the integration of the micropump into the chip requires sophisticated and complicated processing technology, and in addition to the volume for accommodating the micropump on the chip, the volume for incorporating the peripheral elements for driving the micropump is required. Therefore, there is a problem that it is difficult to make the micro analysis chip compact.

  Patent Document 2 proposes a method of moving a liquid by capillary force. Since this method does not require a pump, it has an advantage that it is easy to make the chip more compact than the method of Patent Document 1. On the other hand, in this method of using capillary force for liquid feeding, the magnitude relationship of the flow path width is an important factor governing liquid feeding, so it is difficult to set the flow path width freely. Providing portions with different widths causes problems that the liquid flow stops and the flow velocity becomes unstable.

  Patent Document 3 proposes a method of feeding a microanalysis chip using the liquid absorbency of an absorbent body such as a porous body. In this method, an absorber is disposed on the downstream side, and liquid feeding is performed using the liquid absorption force, so that there is no problem as in Patent Document 2 described above. Details of this method will be described with reference to FIG.

  13A and 13B are diagrams showing a microanalysis chip according to the prior art, in which FIG. 13A is a plan view and FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view. Moreover, FIG. 14 is a figure explaining the condition of the liquid which flows into the liquid feeding apparatus shown in FIG. 13, and has shown the change in order of FIG. 14 (a)-(f). In FIG. 14, the portion where the liquid is present is colored in black, and the flow path 514 is bent to make the flow of the liquid easy to understand.

  As shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the microanalysis chip includes a channel 514, a liquid receiving unit 512 connected to the upstream of the channel 514, and a discharge unit connected to the downstream of the channel 514. 513 and an absorber 530 provided in the discharge portion 513. The liquid feeding device includes a first substrate 510 provided with a groove for a flow path 514, a through hole for a liquid receiving portion 512, and a through hole for a discharge portion 513, and a second substrate 511 that covers the first substrate 510. And are superimposed.

  When liquid is injected from the liquid receiving portion 512 of this micro analysis chip (see FIG. 14A), the liquid moves through the flow path 514 by capillary action and reaches the absorber 530. When the liquid reaches the absorber 530 (see FIG. 14B), the liquid is absorbed by the absorber 530, and the liquid continuously flows and is transferred through the flow path (see FIG. 14C). Completely sucks the liquid and stops the liquid feeding (see FIG. 14D).

  The method of transferring the liquid using the absorbent body of Patent Document 3 has an advantage that stable liquid feeding can be performed within the range of the absorbent capacity of the absorbent body. However, the above technique cannot control the advance / stop / advance of the liquid.

  In order to perform analysis using a micro-analysis chip, it is necessary to perform a predetermined reaction in the flow path. For this purpose, multiple types of solutions such as a reaction solution, a washing solution, and a detection solution are selectively used. It is necessary to introduce into the flow path. Moreover, it is necessary to appropriately control the flow of the introduced solution. For example, for the reaction solution, the flow should be temporarily stopped at the reaction site in order to allow the reaction to proceed sufficiently. For the cleaning solution, the flow is not stopped to enhance the cleaning effect, and the reaction site is not stopped. However, the microanalysis chip according to the technique of Patent Document 3 cannot be used in this way. This will be described with reference to FIG.

  14A to 14D, when the absorbable liquid volume of the absorber 530 is larger than the volume of the liquid (first liquid) introduced from the liquid receiving part 512 into the flow path, The first liquid injected from the portion 512 and entering the flow path 514 is completely absorbed by the absorber 530, and the movement of the liquid stops, but the absorber 530 has an absorption capacity not filled with the liquid, A gap is generated inside the absorber 530 and between the absorber 530 and the wall surface of the discharge portion 513 (see FIG. 14D). Since this gap serves as a path through which air can be discharged from the flow path 514 to the outside of the microchip (discharge section 513), when the second liquid is injected from the liquid receiving section 512, the second liquid expels the air in the flow path 514. However, it moves to the downstream side (discharge section 513 side) (FIGS. 14E to 14F).

  The liquid movement end state in this movement is expressed by the absorption capacity of the absorber 530 after the first liquid is completely absorbed, that is, [absorbable liquid volume of the absorber 530]-[volume of the first liquid]. It depends on the remaining absorbable liquid volume.

  When the remaining absorbable liquid volume is larger than the volume of the injected second liquid, there is no liquid in the flow path 514 (the same state as in FIG. 14D). On the other hand, when the volume of the injected second liquid is larger than the remaining absorbable liquid volume, the liquid remains in the entire channel 514 (FIG. 14 (f)). In addition, when the volume of the second liquid is overwhelmingly larger than the remaining absorbable liquid volume, the second liquid hardly moves (the same state as FIG. 14E).

  As described above, in the conventional liquid sending technique using the absorber, the liquid flows out of the flow path or the liquid accumulates in the flow path regardless of the intention of the analysis operator. There is a problem that it is difficult to perform measurement stably. As a method for solving this problem, it is conceivable to provide an open / close valve such as a micro valve, an electrowetting valve or a light valve in the flow path.

  However, the microvalve, like the micropump of the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, requires a high level of processing technology for incorporation, and also requires space for driving elements, so it is difficult to make the analysis chip device compact. There's a problem. On the other hand, although the electrowetting valve and the light valve are less likely to reduce the size of the analysis chip device, the liquid flow stop / advance control is only one time. Cannot be controlled to stop. Therefore, there is a problem that it is impossible to selectively use a plurality of types of solutions and control the feeding of each solution.

  The present invention solves the above-described problems. An object of the present invention is to provide a compact micro-analysis chip capable of controlling the advance and stop of a plurality of types of solutions with a simple structure.

  A first aspect of the present invention for solving the above problems includes an introduction port for introducing a liquid into the apparatus, a liquid receiving portion for receiving the liquid introduced from the introduction port, and a liquid downstream of the liquid receiving portion. A flow path for flowing the liquid, a discharge section for discharging the liquid in the flow path, a first absorber provided in the discharge section and / or the flow path, and the liquid more than the first absorber. A second absorber provided on the receiving portion side, the total volume of the flow path and the liquid receiving portion is Q0, the absorbable liquid capacity of the first absorber is Q1, the second absorber Q2 ≦ Q0 ≦ [Q1 + Q2] and F1 ≦ F2 are established, where Q2 is the recoverable liquid volume of the absorber, F1 is the absorption capacity of the first absorber, and F2 is the absorption capacity of the second absorber. It is characterized by doing.

  The operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig.1 (a) is a top view of the liquid feeding apparatus concerning the said structure, The same (b) is sectional drawing. FIG. 2 is a view for explaining the liquid feeding operation (liquid flow) of the liquid feeding device.

  When the liquid is injected into the liquid receiving portion 112 of the liquid feeding device having the above-described configuration, the liquid flows downstream through the flow path 114 due to its own weight and surface tension, and the leading end of the liquid absorbs the second absorption. Reach body 132. Since the liquid that has reached the second absorber 132 is absorbed by the second absorber 132, the liquid injected into the liquid receiver 112 gradually moves downstream.

  Here, in the above configuration, the first absorbent body 131 is disposed on the downstream side (discharge section side) of the second absorbent body 132, and the total volume Q0 of the flow path 114 and the liquid receiving section 112 is the second. Is set to be greater than or equal to the absorbable liquid capacity Q2 of the first absorbent body 132, and Q0 is equal to or less than the total capacity of the absorbable liquid capacity Q1 of the first absorbent body 131 and the absorbable liquid capacity Q2 of the second absorbent body 132 (Q2 ≦ Q0 ≦ [Q1 + Q2]). Furthermore, the absorption power F2 of the second absorber is set to be greater than or equal to the absorption power F1 of the first absorber. With this configuration, it becomes possible to completely feed a volume liquid that is greater than or equal to the absorbable liquid volume Q2 of the second absorbent body 132 to the downstream side.

  That is, the second absorbent body 132 has an absorbable liquid volume Q2 or more, and is equal to or less than the total capacity of the absorbable liquid volume Q1 of the first absorbent body 131 and the absorbable liquid volume Q2 of the second absorbent body 132. When one liquid is introduced into the liquid feeding device, the liquid proceeds through the flow path 114 and is first absorbed by the second absorber 132. When the amount of liquid absorbed by the second absorber 132 reaches Q2 and cannot absorb more liquid, the first absorber 131 cannot absorb the second absorber 132 and absorbs the overflowed liquid. It becomes like this. That is, since each absorber absorbs the liquid up to the total capacity of the absorbable liquid volume Q2 of the second absorber 132 and the absorbable liquid volume Q1 of the first absorber 131, [Q1 + Q2 ] Can be fed.

  For example, when a first liquid having a volume exceeding Q2 and equal to or less than [Q1 + Q2] is introduced from the liquid receiving portion 112, the liquid advances in the flow path 114, reaches the second absorbent body 132, and reaches the second absorbent body 132. Since it is absorbed by the first absorber 131, the liquid in the flow path 114 is completely moved out of the flow path, and the liquid feeding operation is stopped (see FIGS. 2A to 2C).

  Here, since the inflow amount of the first liquid exceeds the absorbable liquid capacity Q1 of the second absorber, the absorption capacity of the first absorber 131 and the second absorber 132 when the liquid feeding is stopped. Due to the difference (difference between F1 and F2), the liquid is sufficiently absorbed by the second absorber 132 (saturated state), and when the second absorber 132 is saturated, the air in the channel 114 is , It becomes impossible to pass through the second absorber 132. Therefore, when a new liquid (second liquid) is injected into the liquid receiving part 112, the second liquid stops in the liquid receiving part 112 without flowing downstream. That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention configured as described above, the second liquid can be stopped in the liquid receiving portion 112 without using a complicated mechanism (see FIG. 2E).

  In addition, the liquid receiving part 112 has a sufficient space in which the liquid and air can be replaced, and air can be released to the outside from the introduction port. Therefore, the second liquid can be received.

  Next, a method of measuring “absorbable liquid volume” and “absorbing power” in the above configuration will be described. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an apparatus used for measuring “absorbable liquid volume” and “absorbing power”. As shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, an introduction path 612 having an introduction port, a discharge section 613, and a flow path 614 connecting the introduction path 612 and the discharge section 613 are provided. An absorber housing space 640 is provided. An absorber having the same size as the absorber housing space 640 is installed in the absorber housing space 640. The absorber housing space 640 has a diameter of 3 mm and a height of 5 mm. In addition, at least one of the first substrate 610 and the second substrate 611 is made of a transparent material in order to visualize the inside of the channel 614.

  The above-mentioned absorber of the same size means that the size of the outer contour of the absorber is the same (the same volume) as the size of the inside of the absorber housing space 640. When the absorbent body is made of powder or granules, the absorbent body is filled in a density measurement container, the apparent density is measured by the tap density test method of the industry standard TMIAS01015, and the volume of the absorbent body accommodation space 640 is measured. From the above, the mass of the absorber is calculated. The absorber with the calculated mass is tapped to the same height as the absorber housing space 640 and filled. The “absorbable liquid volume” and “absorbing power” are measured with the filled absorbent body.

  The measurement is performed as follows. The liquid is introduced from the introduction port, and the absorber accommodated in the absorber accommodation space 640 sufficiently absorbs the liquid (saturated state). At this time, the volume of the liquid introduced from the introduction port is made larger than the capacity that can be absorbed by the absorber. When the progress of the introduced liquid is completely stopped, the remaining liquid volume is measured by measuring the liquid length remaining on the upstream side of the absorber and multiplying the cross-sectional area by the liquid length. From the difference between the introduced liquid volume and the residual liquid volume, the absorbable liquid volume of the absorber per volume is simply calculated. Further, the maximum speed when the liquid is traveling in the flow path is measured, and this is defined as the absorbent capacity of the absorber.

  The traveling speed of the liquid can be determined as follows, for example. Fine particles such as polystyrene beads having a particle diameter of 1 to 10 μm are suspended in the liquid introduced from the introduction port. A CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor is installed in the vicinity of the flow path. Then, the movement of the beads in the flow path is observed with the CCD, and the speed is measured.

  Here, when the absorber is a water-absorbing polymer or the like, the original volume expands due to liquid absorption. Therefore, in the case of using a material that expands in volume due to liquid absorption, a space for absorbing expansion is provided above the absorber housing space 640.

  The space for absorbing expansion is 0.5 times or less or 1 time or less the volume of the absorber.

  A second aspect of the present invention for solving the above problems is that a main channel, an air hole provided on one end side of the main channel, and a liquid in the main channel connected to the main channel A first introduction flow path having a first introduction port for introducing the liquid, and a second introduction for introducing liquid into the main flow path connected to the main flow path on the air hole side of the first introduction flow path A second introduction channel having a mouth, a discharge channel having a discharge port for discharging the liquid in the main channel disposed opposite to the first introduction channel across the main channel, and the discharge A first absorber provided in the mouth and / or the discharge flow channel, a second absorber provided on the main flow channel side with respect to the first absorber, and provided in the second introduction flow channel. A valve capable of switching the liquid in a stopped state to forward movement, and the first guide The volume of the flow path and the first inlet is q1, the absorbable liquid volume of the first absorber is q1, the absorbable liquid volume of the second absorber is q2, the absorbency of the first absorber is f1, When the absorption capacity of the second absorber is f2, q1 ≦ q0 ≦ [q1 + q2] and f1 ≦ f2 are satisfied.

  The operation of this configuration will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 8 is a plan view, and FIG. 9 is a plan view for explaining the flow of the liquid in the liquid feeding device. In the liquid feeding device according to this configuration, only the valve 260b is essential, and the valves 260a and 260c are Not required. 8 and 9 are diagrams related to the liquid feeding device according to the fifth embodiment.

  In the above configuration, when liquid is injected from the first introduction port 212a, the liquid moves to the main flow path 251 through the first introduction flow path 252 and moves to the air hole 250 side of the main flow path 251. It moves from the main flow path 251 to the discharge flow path 271 and reaches the second absorber (not shown) provided in the outlet and / or the discharge flow path, and the liquid is absorbed by the second absorbent body. The flow proceeds.

  Since the valve 260b is provided in the second introduction flow path 253, the liquid does not move from the main flow path 251 to the second introduction flow path 253 if the valve 260b is stopped. In the above description, it is assumed that the valve 260a and the valve 260c are in an open state (forward state).

  Here, the total volume q0 of the first introduction flow path 252 and the first introduction port 212a is not less than the absorbable liquid volume q1 of the second absorber, and the absorbable liquid volumes of the first and second absorbers [ q1 + q2] or less. Therefore, the first liquid of q1 or more and [q1 + q2] or less can be introduced into the liquid feeding apparatus, and when the first liquid within this range is introduced into the liquid feeding apparatus, the liquid in the main flow path 251 and the discharge flow path 271 is discharged. The liquid is completely absorbed by the second absorber and the first absorber, and the liquid feeding stops (see FIGS. 9B to 9D).

  When the liquid feeding is stopped, the liquid is sufficiently absorbed by the second absorber (saturated state) due to the difference in absorption power between the first absorber and the second absorber (difference between f1 and f2). At this time, since there is no gap in the second absorber, the air in the discharge channel 271 cannot pass through the second absorber. Therefore, even if the second liquid is injected from the second inlet 212b, the liquid cannot travel from the main channel 251 to the discharge channel 271. In addition, liquid flows into the first introduction flow path due to the inflow of air from the air holes 250, and this liquid covers the air movement, so that the liquid enters the first introduction flow path 252 from the main flow path 251. (See FIG. 9 (e)). That is, according to the second configuration of the present invention, the second liquid can be stopped in the main channel 271 without using a complicated mechanism (see FIG. 9F).

  A third aspect of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is the main body comprising the element of the second aspect of the present invention, and further connected to the main channel on the air hole side with respect to the second introduction channel. A third introduction channel having a third introduction port for introducing a liquid into the channel, and a second channel for discharging the liquid in the main channel disposed opposite to the second introduction channel across the main channel. A second discharge channel having two discharge ports, a third absorber provided in the second discharge port and / or the second discharge channel, and provided on the main channel side of the third absorber. A valve that is provided in each of the fourth absorbent body, the second discharge channel, and the third introduction channel that can switch the liquid in a stopped state forward, and 2 The total volume of the introduction channel and the second introduction port is q5, and the absorbable liquid volume of the third absorber is q3. When the absorbable liquid volume of the fourth absorber is q4, the absorption capacity of the third absorber is f3, and the absorption capacity of the fourth absorber is f4, q3 ≦ q5 ≦ [q3 + q4] and f3 ≦ f4 are satisfied. The liquid delivery device is characterized by being established.

  In the above configuration, the second liquid can be stopped in the main channel 251 as in the second aspect of the present invention. Further, the second introduction channel, the second discharge channel, the third introduction channel, the fourth absorber, and the third absorber are respectively the first introduction channel, the discharge channel, the second invention, Since it acts in the same manner as the second introduction channel, the second absorber, and the first absorber, the third liquid introduced from the third introduction channel can be stopped in the main channel 251. The liquid delivery device according to the third aspect of the present invention may further include an introduction channel and a discharge channel.

  The above-described liquid feeding devices of the first to third aspects of the present invention can be used for a microanalysis chip that needs to perform reaction and detection in a state where the liquid is stopped.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to realize a liquid feeding device capable of stopping a target liquid in a flow path for performing detection, reaction, or the like or in a liquid receiving portion. The liquid feeding device according to the present invention can perform liquid feeding control with high reliability in spite of a simple structure. Therefore, the microanalysis chip using the liquid feeding device and the usability of the analytical device are improved. It has a remarkable effect on improvement and downsizing.

1A and 1B are diagrams showing a liquid feeding device according to Embodiment 1, in which FIG. 1A is a plan view and FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view. FIG. 2 is a plan view for explaining the liquid flow of the liquid delivery device according to the first embodiment. 3A and 3B are diagrams showing a liquid feeding device according to Embodiment 2, in which FIG. 3A is a plan view and FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view. FIG. 4 is a plan view for explaining the flow of the liquid in the liquid delivery device according to the second embodiment. 5A and 5B are diagrams showing a liquid feeding device according to Embodiment 3, in which FIG. 5A is a plan view and FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view. FIG. 6 is a plan view for explaining the flow of the liquid in the liquid delivery device according to the third embodiment. 7A and 7B are diagrams showing the flow of the liquid in the liquid delivery device according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 7A is a plan view and FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view. FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a liquid delivery device according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 9 is a plan view for explaining the flow of the liquid in the liquid delivery device according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a liquid delivery device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 11 is a plan view for explaining the flow of the liquid in the liquid delivery device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 12 is a plan view for explaining the flow of the liquid in the liquid delivery device according to the sixth embodiment. 13A and 13B are diagrams showing a microanalysis chip according to a conventional technique, in which FIG. 13A is a plan view and FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view. FIG. 14 is a plan view for explaining the flow of the liquid in the microanalysis chip according to the prior art. FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining the interfacial tension. FIGS. 16A and 16B are diagrams showing an apparatus used for measuring the absorbable liquid capacity and absorption capacity of the absorber, in which FIG. 16A is a plan view and FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings. The present embodiment relates to the first aspect of the present invention.

(Embodiment 1)
1A and 1B are diagrams showing a liquid feeding device according to Embodiment 1, in which FIG. 1A is a plan view and FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view. As shown in FIGS. 1 (a) and 1 (b), the liquid delivery device according to Embodiment 1 includes a flow channel 114 and an introduction port connected to the upstream side of the flow channel 114 for introducing liquid into the flow channel. And a liquid receiving part 112 having a discharge part 113 for discharging the air in the flow path 114, connected to the downstream side of the flow path 114 (on the opposite side to the liquid receiving part 112). The second absorber 132 is provided in the part 113 and / or the flow path 114, and the first absorber 131 is provided on the downstream side thereof.

<Flow path>
In the present embodiment, the channel 114 is formed by overlapping the groove provided in the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 111 that covers the first substrate 110. The flow path 114 may be configured by a cavity formed between substrates disposed opposite to each other, or may be configured by arranging a cavity or a tube excavated inside the substrate.

  The channel 114 connects the discharge unit 113 and the liquid receiving unit 112. When the flow path is branched or when there are multiple flow paths, the flow path connected to the discharge section is referred to as the discharge flow path, and the portion corresponding to the liquid receiving section connected to the inlet is introduced. This is called a road. A flow path connected to the discharge flow path and the introduction flow path is referred to as a main flow path.

  The discharge flow path, the introduction flow path, the main flow path, and the like are a part of flow paths provided in the liquid feeding device, and the shapes thereof are changed according to the forms of the discharge portion and the liquid receiving portion. In addition, the flow path 114 is preferably configured to be able to send a liquid to be supplied by capillary action. Next, liquid feeding by capillary action will be described.

  In general, the cross-sectional shape of the flow channel (cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the liquid flow direction in the flow channel) is circular, and the wall surface of the flow channel (surface in contact with the liquid) is uniform (for example, composed of the same material). ), The pressure acting on the liquid (pressure due to capillary action) P is σ, the interface tension of the gas-liquid interface is θ, the contact angle of the channel wall surface is θ, and the radius of the channel is r, It is shown by the following formula 1.

  P = 2σ cos θ / r (Formula 1)

  In Equation 1, when P is positive, the liquid can travel through the space in the flow path, and when P is 0 or negative, the liquid cannot travel through the space in the flow path. Here, since σ and r are both positive values, cos θ needs to be positive on the surface of the flow path in order to send liquid by capillary action (P value is positive). That is, in the case of a liquid using water as a solvent, the liquid can be flowed by capillary action when the flow path surface (surface of the flow path) is hydrophilic.

  However, a hydrophobic portion may exist on the flow path surface. When both hydrophilic and hydrophobic characteristics coexist, the capillary action generated in the channel is determined by the sum of the interfacial tensions, so the sum of the interfacial tensions should be hydrophilic (cos θ is positive). That's fine.

  Here, hydrophilicity means a case where the contact angle measured under conditions of 1 atm and 25 ° C. using pure water (25 ° C.) having a specific resistance greater than 18 mΩ · cm is less than 90 ° (FIG. 15). Hydrophobic means that the contact angle of the pure water is 90 ° or more. However, the cosine, which is a component acting in the liquid feeding direction of the contact angle, fluctuates largely around 90 °, so that the contact angle with respect to pure water is 85 ° or less from the viewpoint of stably securing the liquid feeding function. The contact angle is more preferably 75 ° or less, and the contact angle is most preferably 60 ° or less.

  Moreover, a flow path refers to a flow path having such a size that capillary action occurs. For example, the width and height of the flow path are preferably 0.1 μm to 10 mm, and more preferably 10 μm to 1 mm.

<substrate)
The material used for the substrate may be selected according to the purpose and application of the liquid delivery device, and is not particularly limited. For example, when optical detection is performed, the optical surface is taken into consideration, when electrical detection is performed, electrical insulation is taken into consideration, and when fine processing such as grooves is required, it is easy to process. For example, select a material suitable for each application.

  When the solution to be absorbed by the absorber is water, it is preferable to use a hydrophilic material or perform a hydrophilic treatment for at least one of the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 111. Examples of the hydrophilic treatment method include hydrophilic treatment treatment, plasma treatment, UV treatment, hydrophilic film coating, and surface roughness control.

  In addition, when optical operations (detection, bulbs, etc.) are performed, a transparent or translucent material is used for at least one of the substrates. As such a transparent or translucent material, glass is used. , Quartz, thermosetting resin, thermoplastic resin, film and the like. Specifically, silicon resins, acrylic resins, and styrene resins are preferable from the viewpoints of transparency and moldability. In addition, fluoroplastic materials such as fluorinated polymethylmethacrylate in which hydrogen atoms of polymethylmethacrylate are substituted with fluorine atoms, additives such as catalysts and stabilizers, etc., as plastic materials that are particularly less excited by light for operation And polymethyl methacrylate using a non-fluorescent material.

  In addition, when electrical operation (detection, valve, etc.) is performed, it is necessary to form electrodes on the surfaces of the flow paths and the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 111, so the first substrate 110 or the second substrate. As the material 111, a material capable of forming an electrode is used. As materials capable of forming electrodes, glass, quartz, silicon and the like are preferable from the viewpoints of productivity and reproducibility. Note that since it is difficult to form an electrode on the uneven surface, it is preferable to form the electrode on a substrate (second substrate 111 in this embodiment) on which unevenness such as a channel groove is not formed.

  The thicknesses of the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 111 are not particularly limited. For example, it is about 0.1 to 10 mm. In the first embodiment, the thickness of the first substrate 110 is 0.5 mm, and the thickness of the second substrate is 2 mm.

  In the first embodiment, the thickness of the first substrate 110 is 0.5 mm, whereas the depth of the groove is 50 μm. The depth of the groove is not particularly limited as long as it can be fed by capillary action. For example, the groove is preferably formed to a depth of about 5 μm to 500 μm. The groove can be formed by mechanical processing such as etching and cutting of the first substrate, hot embossing method, mold forming method and the like.

  Further, the groove constituting the flow path 114 is formed so that its cross-sectional shape (cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction) is rectangular. The cross-sectional shape is not particularly limited as long as it is a flow path structure that generates a capillary phenomenon, and may be, for example, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a semicircular shape, an inverted triangular shape, or the like.

<Liquid receiving part, discharge part>
The liquid receiving part 112 includes an introduction port that is open to the outside air, and the discharge part 113 includes a hole that is open to the outside air. The liquid receiving part 112 and the discharge part 113 are each connected to the flow path 112.

  The discharge part 113 and the liquid receiving part 112 can be formed by providing a through hole in the first substrate. The size of the hole is, for example, 0.5 mm to 10 mm in diameter.

<Absorber>
A first absorber 131 and a second absorber 132 are arranged inside the discharge portion. The second absorber 132 is disposed on the upstream side (the liquid receiving portion 112 side) with respect to the first absorber 131. Note that a part of the second absorber 132 may or may not be disposed in the flow path 114.

  The first absorber 131 and the second absorber 132 are structures that absorb liquid. Examples of such structures include materials such as fibers, porous bodies, water-absorbing polymers, and structures formed by including these materials. Specifically, plant fibers such as cotton, wool, etc. Fiber materials such as animal fibers, glass fibers and chemical fibers, porous materials such as molecular sieves (zeolite), calcium carbonate, porous resin and resist microstructures, water-absorbing polymer materials such as sodium polyacrylate fine particles, etc. Is mentioned.

  When the medium of the solution absorbed by the absorber is water, a hydrophilic material is used as the first absorber 131 and the second absorber 132. When the hydrophilicity of the material itself is low or absent, the material is subjected to a hydrophilic treatment to increase the hydrophilicity. As the hydrophilization treatment, for example, hydrophilic treatment treatment, plasma treatment, UV treatment, hydrophilic film coating, surface roughness control, or the like can be used.

  In the case of a solution using a solvent other than water, a material having affinity for the solvent is used as the absorber material.

  The absorption force F2 of the second absorber 132 is configured to be greater than the absorption force F1 of the first absorber 131. For example, the first absorber 131 is made of cotton and the second absorber 132 is made of molecular sieves (zeolite) powder.

  Since the second absorber 132 has a high liquid holding power, it is preferable to use a porous material or a water-absorbing polymer material.

  Further, the absorbable liquid volume Q2 of the second absorber 132 is configured to be equal to or less than the volume Q0 of the flow path 114 and the liquid receiver 112, and the absorbable liquid volume Q1 of the first absorber 131 is , [Q0-Q2]. That is, Q0 is configured to have a volume equal to or less than [Q1 + Q2].

<Relationship between absorber and wall surface (1)>
The relationship (1) is a case where at least a part of the outer peripheral portion of the second absorber 132 is in contact with the discharge portion 113 or the wall surface of the flow path 114. In this structure, the liquid moves as follows.

  The liquid introduced from the introduction port of the liquid receiving part 112 is transmitted through the flow path 114 and the discharge part 113 wall surface and is transmitted to the second absorber 132. Thereafter, the liquid that cannot be completely absorbed by the second absorber 132 travels along the wall surface or the interface between the two absorbers and moves to the first absorber 132 to be absorbed. In this structure, the capillary force due to the interfacial tension at the outer peripheral portion of the second absorber 132 acts together with the capillary force due to the interfacial tension acting on the wall surface of the flow path 114 or the discharge portion 113, so that the liquid moves along the wall surface. This facilitates the transfer of the solution.

<Relationship between absorber and wall surface (2)>
The relationship (1) has a gap between the outer peripheral portion of the second absorber 132 and the wall surface of the discharge portion 113 or the flow path 114, and at least the gap is included in the wall surface of the discharge portion 113 or the flow path 114. This is a case where the wall surface of the part to be formed is hydrophilic.

  In this structure, when the liquid absorbed in the second absorber 132 decreases due to evaporation or the like, an air passage is formed in the second absorber 132 or in the outer peripheral portion of the second absorber 132, thereby There is a risk that air in the flow path system flows outside the flow path system. However, when the wall surface of the portion forming the space has a hydrophilic structure, a strong capillary force acts on the void formed between the second absorber 132 and the wall surface, so that the void is a liquid. Will be satisfied. As a result, it is possible to prevent the air in the flow path system from getting out of the system through the gap formed by the second absorber 132 and the wall surface.

  That is, even if there is a gap between the outer peripheral portion of the second absorber 132 and the wall surface of the discharge portion 113 or the flow path 114, the second absorber 132 is used as a plug that prevents the passage of air. In order to make it function, it is preferable to make the wall surface of the void portion hydrophilic.

<Arrangement of flow path and absorber>
If the 2nd absorber 132 exists in a flow path, the evaporation of the liquid from the absorber after absorption can be prevented. Therefore, a structure in which part or all of the second absorber 132 is in the flow path 114 is preferable.

<Disposition relationship between two absorbers>
The 1st absorber 131 and the 2nd absorber 132 may be in contact, and do not need to be in contact. In the first embodiment, the first absorbent body 131 and the second absorbent body 132 are in contact with each other (FIG. 1B), but with this structure, the second absorbent body 132 has passed. Since the liquid is directly transmitted to the first absorber 131, the absorption force of the second absorber 132 can be directly applied to the first absorber 131. Therefore, even when the difference in absorption power between the first absorber 131 and the second absorber 132 is small, it is preferable because the second absorber 132 can sufficiently absorb the liquid.

  Elements other than those described above will be described.

<Detection unit 141>
The liquid receiver 112 may be provided with a detection unit 141 that detects the amount of a specific substance contained in the solution as another element. For example, when the detection unit is an electrochemical detection means, the liquid receiving unit 112 is provided with a working electrode, a reference electrode, and a counter electrode. As a material for the working electrode, the reference electrode, and the counter electrode, a common electrode material may be used. For example, gold, platinum, silver, silver chloride, copper, iridium, aluminum, ITO (indium tin oxide), nickel, titanium, Chrome or the like can be used.

  In addition, the shape of the working electrode, the reference electrode, and the counter electrode can be circular, square, linear, or the like, and is not particularly limited. The size should be ensured in accordance with the detected current value. For example, in the case of a circular shape, the outer diameter is about 10 μm to 10 mm, preferably the outer shape is about 0.5 mm to 5 mm. Even in the case of a shape other than a circle, it is preferable that the area is approximately the same as the area in the case of a circle.

  When the detection unit is a means for detecting by a change in impedance, for example, an electrode for impedance detection is provided on the bottom surface of the liquid receiving unit 112. The electrode material for impedance detection may be a general electrode material such as gold, platinum, silver, silver chloride, copper, iridium, aluminum, ITO (indium tin oxide), nickel, titanium, chromium, etc. Can be used.

  In the case where the detection unit is means for performing fluorescence detection, for example, the fluorescence detection unit is provided on the side surface or bottom surface of the liquid receiving unit 112. The detection unit can be provided in the liquid receiving unit (injection hole) 112.

<Reaction part>
In the liquid feeding device, a reaction unit that performs an antigen-antibody reaction or an enzyme reaction can be provided instead of the detection unit 141 or together with the detection unit. When performing the enzyme reaction, for example, the enzyme used for the enzyme reaction is immobilized on the side surface or the bottom surface of the liquid receiving portion 112 or in the flow path. Moreover, it can also be set as the method of flowing the solution containing an enzyme to a reaction part.

  When the antigen-antibody reaction is performed, the antibody or antigen used for the antigen-antibody reaction can be immobilized in the flow path in the liquid receiving portion 112 as described above. Further, a solution containing an antibody or an antigen can be flowed to the reaction part.

  The shape of the reaction part that performs the antigen-antibody reaction or the enzyme reaction is not particularly limited.

<How to use the device>
A method of using the liquid delivery device according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 2 is a plan view for explaining the liquid flow of the liquid delivery device according to the first embodiment. In the liquid delivery device according to the present embodiment, when a liquid is injected from the liquid receiver 112 (see FIG. 2A), the liquid reaches the second absorber 132 through the flow path 114, and the second The liquid is absorbed by the absorber 132, and the liquid advances through the flow path 114 by this absorption force (see FIG. 2B).

  Here, a liquid volume that is larger than the absorbable liquid volume Q1 of the second absorbent body 132 and smaller than the total of the absorbable liquid volume Q1 and the first absorbable liquid volume Q2 of the second absorbent body 132 is introduced. Then, the second absorber 132 is saturated, and the solution exceeding the absorbable liquid capacity Q1 of the second absorber 132 is absorbed by the first absorber 131, and the liquid feeding is stopped at this stage. (See FIG. 2C).

  When the liquid feeding is stopped, the liquid is sufficiently absorbed by the second absorber 132 (saturated state) due to the difference in absorption power between the first absorber 131 and the second absorber 132 (difference between F1 and F2). become. In a state where the liquid is sufficiently absorbed by the second absorber 132, the air in the flow path 114 cannot pass through the second absorber 132, so that the next liquid is drawn from the inlet of the liquid receiving portion 112. When injected (see FIG. 2D), the liquid does not flow downstream (on the discharge unit 113 side).

  On the other hand, the liquid receiving part 112 is open to the outside, and has a marginal space in which the liquid and air can be replaced. Therefore, the second liquid can be injected into the liquid receiving part 112 and the injected second liquid can be supplied. Since no further liquid feeding force is applied to the two liquids (covered by the absorber 132), the two liquids are stopped in the liquid receiving part 112 (see FIG. 2 (e)).

With a structure in which a detection part and a reaction part for performing an enzyme reaction, an antibody reaction, etc. are provided in the liquid receiving part 112 by the water-absorbing polymer material, the liquid can be retained in the detection part or the reaction part, so that highly reliable detection or The reaction can be performed.

(Embodiment 2)
The second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment. The liquid feeding device according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams showing the liquid delivery device according to the present embodiment, in which FIG. 3A is a plan view, FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view, and FIG. 4 is according to the present embodiment. It is a top view for demonstrating the flow of the liquid of a liquid feeding apparatus.

  In the second embodiment, two discharge portions 113 and 115 are provided, the first absorber 131 is sealed in the downstream discharge portion 113, and the second absorber 132 is sealed in the upstream discharge portion 115, respectively. I'm taking it. Except these, it is the same as that of the said Embodiment 1, and the two discharge parts 113 and 115 may be the same as the discharge part of the said Embodiment 1. FIG.

  According to the second embodiment, the same effect as in the first embodiment can be obtained.

(Embodiment 3)
The third embodiment is a further modification of the first embodiment. A liquid delivery device according to Embodiment 3 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a liquid feeding device according to Embodiment 3, and FIG. 6 is a plan view for explaining the flow of the liquid in the liquid feeding device according to the present embodiment.

  The present embodiment is characterized in that a valve 160 capable of switching the liquid stoppage to the forward movement is present in the flow path 114 of the first embodiment, and is otherwise the same as the first embodiment. .

  When the valve is provided, the first liquid can be stopped in the flow path (main flow path), for example, a labeled object that reacts competitively with the target substance in the first liquid and the target substance. A device (detection device) that detects the amount of the target substance by flowing a liquid containing the substance, reacting with the liquid stopped, and then flowing the washing liquid as the second liquid and detecting the amount of the labeled target substance. Available as

  As the bulb, an electrowetting bulb or a light bulb can be used. In addition, a structure is provided in which a hydrophobic part is provided on a part of the wall surface of the flow path, a pressable part is provided on the upstream side of the flow path, and the liquid in the flow path is sent out beyond the hydrophobic part by applying pressure from the outside. It can be. In addition, a hydrophobic part provided on the wall surface of the flow path and an electrode part for electrolyzing the liquid in the flow path on the upstream side of this to generate bubbles are generated. The structure can be made to exceed the sex part.

  The electrowetting valve is a valve that is hydrophobic when no voltage is applied and advances the solution that has been stopped by changing the contact angle of the electrode surface to the hydrophilic side by applying a voltage. Such an electrowetting valve includes a working electrode that switches between stopping and advancing of the liquid, and a reference electrode. The materials for the working electrode and the reference electrode are not particularly limited, and general conductive materials can be used. For example, gold, platinum, silver, silver chloride, copper, iridium, aluminum, ITO (indium tin oxide), nickel, titanium, chromium, and the like can be used.

  Further, in order to ensure the liquid stopping function, a hydrophobic film such as a tetrafluoroethylene film or a very low hydrophilic film such as a natural oxide film of an electrode metal is provided on the surface of the working electrode. .

  Examples of the light bulb include a photocatalyst (titanium oxide or the like) and a hydrophobic organic substance that is decomposed by the photocatalyst formed in a portion serving as a bulb. In such a light valve, by irradiating light such as ultraviolet light that reacts with the photocatalyst, the photocatalyst reacts to decompose the hydrophobic organic substance and the contact angle decreases, so that the stopped solution is switched forward. become.

  The photocatalyst film for the light valve can be formed by patterning a titanium oxide film on the second substrate 111 by a sputtering method, a lift-off method, or the like. Alternatively, a method may be used in which a titanium film is formed in the same manner, followed by heat treatment or chemical treatment, and the titanium film is oxidized to form a titanium oxide film. In order to improve the initial hydrophobicity of titanium oxide, an organic monomolecular film or the like is preferably formed on the titanium oxide surface, and octadecyltrichlorosilane or the like can be used. Also. The first substrate 110 is made of a material that transmits light that reacts with the photocatalyst.

  According to the third embodiment, the same effect as in the first embodiment can be obtained, and in this embodiment, the liquid can be stopped in the flow path 114 by the valve 160. It is possible to stop the flow of the reaction and perform the reaction and detection.

(Embodiment 4)
The fourth embodiment is a further modification of the first embodiment. A liquid delivery apparatus according to Embodiment 4 will be described with reference to FIG. 7A and 7B are diagrams showing the liquid delivery device according to the present embodiment, in which FIG. 7A is a plan view and FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view.

  The fourth embodiment is characterized in that the first absorber 131 is sealed in the discharge port 113 and the second absorber 132 is sealed in the flow path. Other aspects are the same as in the first embodiment. The inner wall 180 of the flow path 114 with which the second absorbent body 132 is in contact is hydrophilized by a hydrophilic treatment. As a method for hydrophilization, the method described in Embodiment Mode 1 can be used.

  In FIG. 7, when the liquid absorbed in the second absorber 132 decreases due to evaporation or the like, there is a possibility that an air passage may be formed in the second absorber 132 or in the outer periphery of the second absorber 132. However, when the inner wall 180 of the flow path 114 that is in contact with the second absorbent body 132 has a hydrophilic treatment and is made hydrophilic, when the liquid is discharged from the flow path 114, A strong capillary force acts on the gap formed by the wall surface, and the liquid tends to stay in the gap. Therefore, the gap formed by the second absorber 132 and the wall surface is filled with the liquid, and the air passage is blocked.

As described above, in the case of the fourth embodiment, the requirements of Q2 ≦ Q0 ≦ [Q1 + Q2] and F1 ≦ F2 are combined with this requirement, and the operation of stopping the second liquid after the first liquid is advanced is ensured. Can be done.

(Embodiment 5)
The fifth embodiment is an embodiment according to the second aspect of the present invention. The liquid delivery apparatus of Embodiment 5 is demonstrated with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a plan view showing the liquid delivery device of the fifth embodiment, and FIG. 9 is a plan view for explaining the flow of the liquid.

  The liquid feeding device according to the present embodiment is connected to the main channel 251, the air hole 250 provided on one end side of the main channel 251, and the main channel 250, and introduces liquid into the main channel. A first introduction channel 252 having a first introduction port 212a, and a second introduction port 212b that is connected to the main channel 251 on the air hole 250 side of the first introduction channel 252 and introduces liquid into the main channel 251. A discharge channel 271 having a discharge port 213 for discharging the liquid in the main channel 251 disposed opposite to the first introduction channel 252 across the main channel 251; It has.

  Further, the boundary between the first introduction channel 252 and the main channel 251, the boundary between the second introduction channel 253 and the main channel 251, and the boundary between the discharge channel 271 and the main channel 251 are in a stopped state, respectively. A valve is provided that can switch the liquid to forward.

  Further, in the discharge port 213 and / or the discharge flow path 271, a first absorbent body (not shown) and a second absorbent body (not shown) provided closer to the main flow path 251 than the first absorbent body. And) are provided. In addition, the absorptive power of a 2nd absorber is more than the absorptive power of a 1st absorber.

  The main channel 251 is provided with a detection unit 241. Further, the total volume of the first introduction flow path 252 and the first introduction port 212a is configured to be larger than the absorbable liquid volume of the second absorber.

  The first introduction channel 252, the second introduction channel 253, the main channel 251, and the discharge channel 271 can be made of the same material and shape as the channel 114 of the first embodiment.

  Further, the air hole 250 is the same as the discharge portion of the first embodiment, and the valves 260a to 260c are the same as those of the third embodiment.

  The conditions of the substrate material, the absorber, the relationship between the absorber and the wall surface, the arrangement of the discharge channel and the absorber, the arrangement relationship of the two absorbers, the detection unit, the reaction unit, and the like are the same as those in the first embodiment. It is the same.

  The flow of the liquid in the liquid delivery device according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. When the solution is introduced into the first introduction port 212a and the second solution is introduced into the second introduction port 212b, the solution enters the first introduction channel 252 and the second introduction channel 253, but the valves 260a and 260b are Since it is closed, it stops here (see FIG. 9A).

  When the valve 260a of the first introduction channel 252 is opened, the solution proceeds to the main channel 251 and moves toward the air hole 250 to fill the main channel 251 with the first liquid (see FIG. 9B). . At this time, the valves 260b and 260c are closed. Thereby, the movement of the first liquid toward the second introduction flow path 253 and the discharge flow path 271 is prevented.

  Next, when the valve 260c connected to the discharge flow path 271 is opened, the first liquid proceeds in the direction of the discharge flow path 271, and the solution is absorbed by the second absorbent body and the first absorbent body. The solution in the main channel 251 is discharged (see FIGS. 9C and 9D). At this time, the solution in the first introduction channel 252 is divided by the air that has entered through the air holes 250, so that a part of the solution remains in the first introduction channel 252 (see FIG. 9E).

  Next, when the valve 260b of the second introduction flow path 253 is opened, the second liquid proceeds to the main flow path 251 and the second liquid proceeds to the air hole 250 side (see FIG. 9F). At this time, since the second absorber is in a saturated state, the solution cannot move to the discharge channel 271 side by the same action as in the first embodiment. Further, the second liquid cannot move to the first introduction channel 252 side due to the solution remaining in the first introduction channel 252. Therefore, the second liquid can be stopped in the main flow path 251.

  From the above, by providing the detection unit 241 in the main channel 251, a detection device for feeding a plurality of solutions can be realized.

  In addition, it can replace with the said detection part 241, and the reaction part which reacts with the detection part 241 can be provided.

(Embodiment 6)
A liquid delivery apparatus according to Embodiment 6 will be described with reference to FIGS. The sixth embodiment is an embodiment according to the third aspect of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the liquid delivery device according to the present embodiment, and FIGS. 11 and 12 are plan views for explaining the flow of the liquid in the liquid delivery device according to the present embodiment.

  The liquid feeding device according to the present embodiment is connected to the main channel 251, the air hole 250 provided on one end side of the main channel 251, and the main channel 250, and introduces liquid into the main channel. A first introduction channel 252 having a first introduction port 212a, and a second introduction port 212b that is connected to the main channel 251 on the air hole 250 side of the first introduction channel 252 and introduces liquid into the main channel 251. And a third introduction port 212c that is connected to the main passage 251 on the air hole 250 side of the second introduction passage 253 and has a third introduction port 212c that introduces liquid into the main passage 251. A first discharge channel 271 having a first discharge port 213a for discharging the liquid in the main channel 251 disposed opposite to the first introduction channel 252 across the channel 254, the main channel 251; Sandwiching the channel 251 It disposed facing the second inlet flow path 253, and a second discharge passage 272 having a second outlet 213b for discharging the liquid in the main flow passage 251, a.

  Further, the boundary between the first introduction channel 252 and the main channel 251, the boundary between the second introduction channel 253 and the main channel 251, the boundary between the third introduction channel 254 and the main channel 251, the first discharge Valves 260a to 260e capable of switching the liquid in the stopped state to forward are provided at the boundary between the channel 271 and the main channel 251 and at the boundary between the second discharge channel 272 and the main channel 251, respectively. .

  Further, in the first discharge port 213a and / or in the first discharge channel 271, a first absorber (not shown) and a second absorption provided on the main channel 251 side with respect to the first absorber. A body (not shown), and a third absorber (not shown) and a main stream in the second outlet 213b and / or the second outlet channel 272 than the third absorber. And a fourth absorber (not shown) provided on the path 251 side. And the absorption power of the 2nd absorber is more than the absorption power of the 1st absorber, and the absorption power of the 4th absorber is more than the absorption power of the 3rd absorber.

  The main channel 251 is provided with a detection unit 241. The total volume of the first introduction channel 252 and the first introduction port 212a is configured to be larger than the absorbable liquid volume of the second absorber, and the second introduction channel 253 and the second introduction port 212b. Is configured to be larger than the absorbable liquid volume of the fourth absorbent body.

  The first introduction flow path 252, the second introduction flow path 253, the third introduction flow path 254, the main flow path 251, the first discharge flow path 271, and the second discharge flow path 272 are the flow paths 114 of the first embodiment. It can be formed similarly.

  The first introduction flow path 252, the second introduction flow path 253, the third introduction flow path 254, the main flow path 251, the first discharge flow path 271, and the second discharge flow path 272 are the same as the flow path 114 of the first embodiment. It can be formed similarly.

  The air hole 250 is the same as the discharge part of the first embodiment. The valves 260a to 260e are the same as those in the third embodiment.

  The substrate material, the absorber, the mutual relationship between the absorber and the wall surface, the arrangement of the first discharge channel and the second absorber, the arrangement relation of the first absorber and the second absorber, the detection unit, and the reaction unit are This is the same as the first embodiment.

  In addition, the arrangement relationship between the third absorber and the fourth absorber, the arrangement of the arrangement of the second discharge channel and the fourth absorber, the arrangement relationship between the first absorber and the second absorber, the first discharge. The arrangement of the flow path and the second absorber is the same as the arrangement of the absorber.

  The flow of the liquid in the liquid delivery device according to the present embodiment will be described. When the first liquid is introduced into the first introduction port 212a, the second liquid is introduced into the second introduction port 212b, and the third liquid is introduced into the third introduction port 212c, the first introduction channel 252 and the second solution introduction channel 253, The liquid enters the third introduction channel 254, and stops at the valves 260a to 260c (see FIG. 11A).

  Next, when the valve 260a of the first introduction channel 252 is opened, the first liquid proceeds to the main channel 251 and the main channel 251 is filled with the solution (see FIG. 11B). At this time, since the valves 212b to 212e are closed, the liquid does not move toward the second introduction flow path 253, the third introduction flow path 254, the first discharge flow path 271 and the second discharge flow path 272. .

  Next, when the valve 260d connected to the first discharge channel 271 is opened, the liquid proceeds in the direction of the first discharge channel 271 and a second absorber (not shown) provided in the first discharge port 213a and The solution is absorbed by the first absorber (not shown), and the solutions in the first introduction channel 271 and the main channel 251 are discharged (see FIGS. 11C and 11D).

  Since the liquid in the first introduction channel 252 is divided by the air that has entered from the air holes 250, a part of the solution remains in the first introduction channel 252 (see FIG. 12A).

  Next, when the valve 260b of the second introduction channel 253 is opened, the second liquid proceeds to the main channel 251 and the solution proceeds to the air hole 250 side (see FIG. 12B). At this time, since the valves 212c and 212e are closed, the liquid does not move to the third introduction channel 254 and the second discharge channel 272 side. The second liquid can be stopped in the main flow path 251 because it cannot move to the discharge flow path 271 side and the first introduction flow path 252 side by the same action as in the fifth embodiment.

  Next, when the valve 260e of the second discharge channel 272 is opened, the second liquid proceeds in the direction of the second discharge channel 272 (see FIG. 12C), and the fourth liquid provided in the second discharge port 213b. The solution is absorbed by the absorber (not shown) and the third absorber (not shown), and the solution in the second introduction channel 253 and the main channel 251 is discharged (see FIG. 12D).

  Since the solution in the second introduction channel 253 is divided by the air that has entered through the air holes 250, a part of the solution remains in the second introduction channel 253 (see FIG. 12E).

  Next, when the valve 260c of the third introduction channel 254 is opened, the liquid proceeds to the main channel 251 and the solution proceeds to the air hole 250 side (see FIG. 12F). At this time, the second absorber and the fourth absorber are saturated, and the solution remains in the first introduction channel 252 and the second introduction channel 253. The first introduction channel 252, the second introduction channel 253, the first discharge channel 271, and the second discharge channel 272 cannot be moved. Therefore, the third liquid can be stopped in the main flow path 251.

  As described above, according to the sixth embodiment, it is possible to realize a detection device capable of sequentially feeding a plurality of solutions to the detection unit 241 provided in the main channel 251.

  In addition, it can replace with the detection part 241, and the reaction part which reacts with the detection part 241 can be provided. For example, when the reaction part and the detection part 241 which fixed the antibody in the main flow path 251 are provided, the liquid containing the antigen to be measured and the enzyme labeled antigen from the first introduction flow path 252, the second introduction flow path When a washing solution is flown from 253 and a solution containing a substrate is flowed from the third introduction channel 254, the solution is stopped, so that a stable antigen-antibody reaction and enzyme substrate reaction can be performed, and a product by the enzyme substrate reaction is detected. It can be detected by the part.

Example 1
The invention will be further described by way of examples. The basic structure of the liquid delivery device according to Example 1 is the same as that of the first embodiment. With reference to FIG. 1, the liquid delivery apparatus of Example 1 will be described more specifically.

  The formation of the channel groove on the first substrate 110 was performed by a resin molding method using a mold. The mold was manufactured by forming a resist pattern on a silicon substrate by a photolithography method and then performing an etching by a dry etching process method. The width of the channel 114 was 600 μm, the height of the channel 114 was 50 μm, and the length of the channel 114 was 15 mm.

  A mold was provided on the manufactured mold, and silicon rubber (polydimethylsiloxane, Zilpot 184 manufactured by Toray Dow Corning Co., Ltd.) was poured into the mold until the thickness became 2 mm, and heated at 100 ° C. for 15 minutes to be cured. After curing, the mold and the cured silicone rubber were separated.

Next, the silicon rubber is shaped into a length of 20 mm, a width of 10 mm, and a thickness of 2 mm, and a through hole having a diameter of 2 mm is opened using a punch as a hole that becomes the liquid receiving portion 112 and a hole that becomes the discharge portion 113, and the first substrate 110 is formed. Produced. TWEEN 20 (manufactured by GE Healthcare Japan) was applied to the surface of the manufactured first substrate 110 and dried at 100 ° C. for 5 minutes.

  The second substrate 111 was prepared by cutting a Tempax glass substrate having a thickness of 600 μm into a length of 25 mm and a width of 15 mm with a dicing saw.

  As the first absorbent body 131, a non-woven fabric (BEMCOT (registered trademark) manufactured by Asahi Kasei Fiber) cut to a diameter of 2 mm is prepared. A pulverized one was prepared.

  The manufactured first substrate and second substrate were overlapped, and the hole of the discharge unit 113 was filled with the second absorber 132 and the first absorber 131, whereby the liquid feeding device according to Example 1 was manufactured.

  The liquid feeding apparatus according to Example 1 was tested for flowing liquid. A phosphate buffer solution was used as the liquid, and the phosphate buffer solution was dropped into the liquid receiving part 112. Then, the phosphate buffer solution entered the flow path 114 in the liquid feeding device by capillary action. Then, the liquid in the channel 114 is absorbed in the order of the second absorber 132 and the first absorber 131, and air enters from the inlet of the liquid receiving part 112, so that the phosphorus in the channel 114 is absorbed. The acid buffer solution was completely discharged from the flow path 114.

  Next, when a phosphate buffer as a second liquid was dropped into the inlet of the liquid receiving part 112, the solution stopped in the liquid receiving part 112 without entering the flow path 114.

(Comparative Example 1)
As a comparative example, the second absorber is not used, the absorbable liquid volume of the first absorber is equal to or greater than the total liquid amount of the first liquid and the second liquid, and the total volume of the liquid receiving part 112 and the flow path 114. Except for the above, a liquid delivery apparatus similar to that of Example 1 was produced.

  With respect to the liquid feeding device according to the comparative example, an experiment for flowing a liquid was performed in the same manner as in Example 1.

  In Comparative Example 1, when the phosphate buffer solution was dropped onto the liquid receiving part 112, the solution entered the flow path 114 in the liquid delivery device due to capillary action. Next, the liquid in the flow path 114 is absorbed by the first absorber 131, air enters from the liquid receiving portion 112, and the solution in the flow path 114 is completely absorbed by the first absorbent body 131 and flows. The liquid was discharged from the passage 114.

  Thereafter, when a phosphate buffer solution as the second liquid is dropped into the liquid receiving part 112, the solution enters the flow path 114, and the liquid is completely absorbed by the first absorber 131. Solution was completely drained.

  From the above, it was confirmed that in Example 1, the second liquid solution stayed at the liquid receiving portion 112 and did not proceed any more, whereas in Comparative Example 1, the second liquid solution was completely discharged. . That is, it was confirmed that the liquid feeding device of Example 1 can stop the flow of the second liquid and can be retained in the liquid receiving portion 112.

  Needless to say, the liquid feeding device may be configured by combining the various features described in the first to sixth embodiments.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to realize a compact liquid feeding apparatus that can switch between stopping and advancing of liquid with a simple operation with a simple structure. Such a liquid feeding device can be used as a microanalysis chip that performs reaction and detection within the chip, and the industrial applicability of the present invention is great.

110 First substrate 111 Second substrate 112 Liquid receiving unit 113 Discharge unit 114 Channel 115 Discharge unit 131 First absorber 132 Second absorber 141 Detector 160 Valve 180 Inner wall 210 of channel 210 First substrate 211 Second Substrate 212 Inlet 213 Exhaust 215 Absorber hole 231 First absorber 232 Second absorber 241 Detection section 252, 253, 254 Inlet channel 250 Air hole 251 Main channel 260 Valves 271, 272 Exhaust channel 280 Inner wall 510 of flow path First substrate 511 Second substrate 512 Liquid receiving part 513 Discharge part 514 Flow path 530 Absorber 610 First substrate 611 Second substrate 612 Liquid receiving part 613 Discharge part 614 Flow path 640 Absorber accommodating space

Claims (20)

An inlet for introducing liquid into the apparatus;
A liquid receiving part for receiving the liquid introduced from the introduction port;
A flow path for flowing liquid downstream from the liquid receiving portion;
A discharge part for discharging the liquid in the flow path;
A first absorber provided in the discharge portion and / or the flow path, and a second absorber provided on the liquid receiving portion side of the first absorber,
The total volume of the flow path and the liquid receiving part is Q0, the absorbable liquid volume of the first absorber is Q1, the collectable liquid volume of the second absorber is Q2, and the first absorber is When the absorbing power is F1, and the absorbing power of the second absorber is F2,
Q2 ≦ Q0 ≦ [Q1 + Q2] and F1 ≦ F2 hold.
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. In the liquid feeding apparatus of Claim 1,
The liquid receiving part is provided with a detection part for performing detection or a reaction part for performing reaction,
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to claim 1 or 2,
At least a part of the outer peripheral portion of the second absorber is in contact with the discharge portion or the wall surface of the flow path,
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to claim 1 or 2,
The wall surface of the part which has a space between the outer peripheral part of said 2nd absorber and the wall surface of the said discharge part or the said flow path, and forms the said space at least among the wall surfaces of the said discharge part or the said flow path Is hydrophilic,
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. In the liquid feeding device according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
A part or all of the second absorber is in the flow path,
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. In the liquid feeding device according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
At least a part of the wall surface of the flow path is hydrophilic,
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. In the liquid feeding device according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
Said 1st absorber and said 2nd absorber are contacting. The liquid feeding apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. In the liquid feeding device according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
In the flow path, a valve capable of switching the liquid in a stopped state to forward is provided.
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. A main flow path;
An air hole provided on one end side of the main flow path;
A first introduction channel connected to the main channel and having a first introduction port for introducing a liquid into the main channel;
A second introduction channel connected to the main channel on the air hole side with respect to the first introduction channel and having a second introduction port for introducing liquid into the main channel;
A discharge flow path having a discharge port for discharging the liquid in the main flow path disposed opposite to the first introduction flow path across the main flow path;
A first absorber provided in the discharge port and / or the discharge channel and a second absorber provided on the main channel side of the first absorber;
A valve that is provided in the second introduction flow path and can switch the liquid in a stopped state to advance;
The volume of the first introduction channel and the first introduction port is q1, the absorbable liquid volume of the first absorber is q1, the absorbable liquid volume of the second absorber is q2, and the absorbency of the first absorber. Is f1, and the absorption capacity of the second absorber is f2.
q1 ≦ q0 ≦ [q1 + q2] and f1 ≦ f2 hold.
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to claim 9, wherein
A third introduction channel connected to the main channel on the air hole side with respect to the second introduction channel and having a third introduction port for introducing a liquid into the main channel;
A second discharge channel disposed opposite to the second introduction channel across the main channel and having a second discharge port for discharging the liquid in the main channel;
A third absorber provided in the second discharge port and / or the second discharge channel, a fourth absorber provided on the main channel side of the third absorber, and
A valve provided in each of the second discharge flow path and the third introduction flow path, which can switch the liquid in a stopped state to advance;
The total volume of the second introduction flow path and the second introduction port is q5, the absorbable liquid volume of the third absorber is q3, the absorbable liquid volume of the fourth absorber is q4, and the absorption of the third absorber is When the force is f3 and the absorption force of the fourth absorber is f4, q3 ≦ q5 ≦ [q3 + q4] and f3 ≦ f4 are established.
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. In the liquid feeding device according to claim 9 or 10,
A detection unit that performs detection and / or a reaction unit that performs reaction is provided in the main flow channel and closer to the air hole than the second introduction flow channel.
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to claim 9, 10 or 11,
At least a part of the outer peripheral portion of the second absorbent body is in contact with the wall surface of the discharge channel or the discharge port;
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to claim 9, 10 or 11,
There is a space between the outer peripheral portion of the second absorbent body and the wall surface of the discharge port or the discharge channel, and at least a portion of the wall surface of the discharge port or the discharge channel that forms the space. The walls are hydrophilic,
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to any one of claims 9 to 13,
A part or all of the second absorber is in the discharge flow path;
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to any one of claims 9 to 14,
At least some of the wall surfaces of the first introduction channel, the second introduction channel, the main channel, and the discharge channel are hydrophilic,
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to any one of claims 9 to 15,
A valve capable of switching the stopped liquid forward is provided in the first discharge channel.
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to claim 8 or 9,
The valve is an electrowetting valve;
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to claim 8 or 9,
The bulb is a light bulb;
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to claim 8 or 9,
The valve includes a hydrophobic part provided on the wall surface of the flow path and a pressable part provided on the upstream side of the hydrophobic part, and the liquid in the flow path is applied by applying pressure from the outside. It is a structure that sends out beyond the hydrophobic part,
A liquid feeding device characterized by that. The liquid delivery device according to claim 8 or 9,
The valve includes a hydrophobic part provided on the wall surface of the flow path and an electrode part provided on the upstream side of the hydrophobic part, and the liquid is discharged by the pressure of bubbles by electrolysis. It is a structure that exceeds
A liquid feeding device characterized by that.

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