JP2013210336A - Channel structure, channel chip and analyzer - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To efficiently perform analysis of liquid or its ingredients at a plurality of channels for analysis by a simple mechanism.SOLUTION: A channel chip 1 includes: a plurality of channels 13a, 13b for analysis; a membrane 21 which fluctuates force which is applied to liquid L in at least one channel 13a for analysis; and a first opening 11 which alleviates propagation of the force fluctuated by the membrane 21 to the liquid L in the other channel 13b for analysis.

Description

  The present invention relates to a flow channel structure or the like that enables analysis of a liquid or analysis of components contained in a liquid.

  In the examination for medical diagnosis, it is possible to grasp the patient's medical condition and judge the effect on the administration to the patient by analyzing the components in the patient's blood over many items. For example, in the examination related to lifestyle-related diseases, it is necessary to simultaneously measure triglycerides, cholesterol, blood glucose levels, etc., which are closely related to the lifestyle-related diseases, in order to perform the above grasp and judgment.

  In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in clinical testing POCT (Point Of Care Testing) performed near a patient, such as in a hospital bedside or at home. If it is POCT, while the test result with respect to blood can be rapidly utilized for a patient's treatment, a high quality treatment can be provided to a patient. In order to carry out this POCT, a small analyzer capable of performing rapid blood component analysis by a simple operation is required.

  Here, there is an immunoassay method as a component analysis method widely used in the medical field, biochemical field, fields where allergens need to be analyzed, and the like. In the conventional immunoassay, a large analyzer is required to perform component analysis, and since the operation for component analysis is complicated, the analysis requires more than one day. . For this reason, the conventional immunoassay method could not be applied to POCT.

  Therefore, in recent years, as a small-sized analyzer for performing POCT, a channel having a small cross section (for example, one side of the cross section is on the order of micrometers) is formed in a substrate, and an antibody or the like is formed in the channel. A chip (for example, a micro analysis chip) in which is immobilized is being developed and put into practical use. In this chip, a liquid containing a sample or the like is introduced to a reaction region (or a detection region where the reaction can be detected) in which an antibody or the like is immobilized and a reaction with the sample is performed, and downstream of the reaction region It is necessary to lead. Such a chip is disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3, for example.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a biosensor including a plurality of sensor units that are configured so that the time taken for an introduced sample solution to reach a reagent unit including an oxidoreductase and an electron mediator is different from each other. According to this configuration, the concentration of a plurality of specific substances can be measured.

  Patent Document 2 includes a sensor having two or more independent flow paths and one blood introduction / holding part connected to the upper end sides of all the flow paths, each having a suction opening at the downstream end of each flow path. A card is disclosed. The sensor card is set in a measuring device having a pump configured to be able to suck each independently, whereby a measuring unit provided with a reaction reagent for a measuring component to be measured, provided in each flow path In any of the above, any component can be measured.

  Patent Document 3 discloses a microfluidic system including a chip having a plurality of analysis flow paths. Each analysis channel of the chip is provided with a fluid pump that controls the feeding of a sample such as a reagent or a buffer solution. This allows the user to perform an efficient biological immunoassay.

JP 2004-117342 A (published April 15, 2004) JP 2004-245735 A (published on September 2, 2004) Special table 2009-524054 gazette (released June 25, 2009)

  Here, when a liquid such as blood to be analyzed is introduced to a reaction region provided for each of a plurality of branched flow paths, a substantially uniform driving force is applied to the liquid in each flow path. Preferably it is. For example, when the length from one inlet to the reaction region is substantially the same in each channel, the time until the liquid reaches the reaction region can be made substantially the same. This makes it possible to detect the reaction in each channel in a short time without requiring a time longer than the time required for the reaction.

  On the other hand, when the propulsive force changes due to absorption, suction, or the like with respect to the liquid in the flow channel, the magnitude of the propulsive force may be different for each flow channel. This is because, for example, when an absorption force or a suction force is applied to a liquid in a certain flow path, the force applied to the liquid fluctuates depending on the absorption force or the suction force. This is caused by being propagated to the liquid in another flow path. In this case, the liquid in the other flow path stops or backflows due to the fluctuating force, preventing introduction into the reaction area included in the other flow path, and detection in the reaction area in a short time. In the worst case, there is a possibility that the detection cannot be performed.

  For example, consider the case of a channel chip 100 as shown in FIG. The flow channel chip 100 includes a liquid introduction unit 101, an introduction flow channel 102, analysis flow channels 103a and 103b, openings 104a and 104b, and a liquid feeding mechanism 105. The liquid feeding mechanism 105 is connected only to the opening 104a and is not connected to the opening 104b.

  As shown in FIG. 13A, if the liquid L introduced from the liquid introduction unit 101 can reach the openings 104a and 104b, the liquid in the analysis channels 103a and 103b or the openings 104a and 104b. Analysis of L or its components becomes possible.

  However, since the liquid feeding mechanism 105 is connected only to the opening 104a, it is applied to the liquid L in the analysis flow path 103a by the suction force of the liquid feeding mechanism 105 as shown in FIG. The generated force changes, and the changed force propagates to the liquid L in the analysis flow path 103b. As a result, the liquid L in the analysis flow path 103b is subjected to a force toward the analysis flow path 103a, so that the liquid L stops or flows backward, and may not reach the opening 104b. . That is, the channel chip 100 has not been devised to perform liquid component analysis in a short time and reliably as described above.

  And also in patent documents 1-3, the liquid (reagent, a filter, etc.) installed in each flow path and / or the liquid in each flow path produced by the pump installed or connected to each flow path ( There is no disclosure of any device for controlling the fluctuation of the force on the sample liquid, blood, etc.) to perform the liquid component analysis in a short time and surely.

In particular, the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 is to vary the time required for the sample liquid to reach the reagent part included in each flow path, and is not intended to allow the sample liquid to reach each reagent part almost simultaneously. Further, in Patent Documents 2 and 3, since pumps that function independently are connected to or installed in each flow path, in order to control the fluctuation of the above-mentioned force, it is necessary to control each pump. turn into. Further, it is necessary to provide a mechanism (for example, a valve) for the control, a mechanism control unit (for example, a sensor, a control circuit), and the like for the outside.

  Therefore, from the techniques of Patent Documents 1 to 3, in the simple flow channel structure connected so that the flow channels communicate with each other, when the above-described fluctuations in force occur, It was impossible to conceive that various analyzes of liquid components were performed in a short time and reliably.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and its purpose is to efficiently analyze a liquid in a plurality of analysis flow paths and analyze components contained in the liquid by a simple mechanism. An object of the present invention is to provide a flow channel structure, a flow channel chip, and an analysis device that can be performed.

  In order to solve the above problems, the flow channel structure according to the present invention includes a plurality of analysis flow channels that enable analysis of the liquid and analysis of components contained in the liquid by introducing the liquid. The force variation mechanism for varying the force applied to the liquid in at least one analysis channel among the plurality of analysis channels, and the one of the force varied by the force variation mechanism And a force relaxation mechanism for relaxing propagation to the liquid in another analysis flow channel different from the analysis flow channel.

  According to the above configuration, the force relaxation mechanism can reduce the propagation of the force applied to the liquid in one analysis flow channel by the force variation mechanism to another analysis flow channel. Therefore, the flow of the introduced liquid can be maintained in each of the plurality of analysis flow paths, and the analysis of the liquid included in each of the plurality of analysis flow paths and the analysis of the components contained in the liquid can be performed. A simple mechanism enables efficient operation.

  Furthermore, in the flow path structure according to the present invention, it is preferable that the force relaxation mechanism is a gas storage portion in which a gas is stored.

  According to the above configuration, since the force relaxation mechanism is realized by the gas storage unit, the propagation of the force changed by the force fluctuation mechanism to the liquid can be relaxed using the compressibility of the gas.

  Moreover, it can form easily compared with the case where the ventilation path open | released to air | atmosphere is formed as a force relaxation mechanism. Furthermore, since the amount of liquid staying in the gas storage portion can be reduced as compared with the air passage, the volume of liquid required for analysis can be reduced.

  Furthermore, in the flow path structure according to the present invention, the first distance, which is the distance in the direction perpendicular to the bottom of the gas storage section, in the cross section perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction of the gas storage section is the one for analysis. It is preferable that the cross section perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction of the flow path is longer than the second distance that is the distance in the vertical direction with respect to the bottom of the one analytical flow path.

  According to the above configuration, since the first distance is longer than the second distance, the gas storage portion extends in the direction perpendicular to the bottom (thickness direction) relative to the analysis channel. That is, as a force relaxation mechanism, a gas storage portion having a spread in the thickness direction can be formed.

  The “one analysis channel” having the second distance may be any of a plurality of analysis channels.

Furthermore, in the flow channel structure according to the present invention, the first distance is preferably 1.5 times or more the second distance.

  According to the above configuration, by making the first distance 1.5 times or more the second distance, the force changed by the force fluctuation mechanism is propagated to the liquid in the other analysis flow path. A gas that can be sufficiently relaxed can be accommodated in the gas storage portion.

  Furthermore, in the flow path structure according to the present invention, the third distance, which is the distance in the horizontal direction with respect to the bottom of the gas storage section, in the cross section perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction of the gas storage section is the one for analysis. It is preferable that the flow path is longer than a fourth distance which is a distance in the horizontal direction with respect to the bottom of the one analysis flow path in a cross section perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction.

  According to the said structure, since 3rd distance is longer than 4th distance, the gas storage part has a breadth in the horizontal direction with respect to the bottom part rather than the flow path for analysis. That is, as the force relaxation mechanism, a gas storage portion having a spread in the horizontal direction can be formed. Moreover, it can form easily compared with the case where the gas storage part which spreads in the thickness direction is formed.

  The “one analysis channel” having the fourth distance may be any of a plurality of analysis channels.

  Furthermore, in the flow path structure according to the present invention, it is preferable that the force relaxation mechanism is a vent path opened to the atmosphere.

  According to the above configuration, since the force relaxation mechanism can be realized by an air passage that is open to the atmosphere, a stronger force relaxation effect can be obtained than in the case of the gas storage portion in which the space is closed.

  Furthermore, the flow channel structure according to the present invention preferably includes a liquid introduction part that introduces the liquid into the plurality of analysis flow paths, and the liquid introduction part functions as the force relaxation mechanism.

  According to the said structure, a force relaxation mechanism is realizable with the member required in order to introduce | transduce a liquid.

  Furthermore, in the flow channel structure according to the present invention, it is preferable that the force relaxation mechanism is connected to all of the plurality of analysis flow channels.

  According to the said structure, propagation of the force which the force fluctuation mechanism fluctuated can be relieved by one force relaxation mechanism.

  Furthermore, in the flow channel structure according to the present invention, each of the plurality of analysis flow channels preferably has a structure that generates a capillary force as power for feeding the liquid.

  According to the above configuration, the liquid in the analysis flow channel can flow in one direction without the need for power generated by a mechanism other than the analysis flow channel.

  Furthermore, in the flow channel structure according to the present invention, the force fluctuation mechanism is preferably an absorber that absorbs the liquid.

  According to the above configuration, since the amount of liquid absorption can be adjusted by the size of the absorber, the amount of liquid required for analysis can be arbitrarily set. Therefore, convenience for the analysis can be improved.

  On the other hand, even if the force applied to the liquid is changed by absorbing the liquid by the absorber, since the force relaxation mechanism is provided, propagation of the changed force to the liquid can be reduced. Therefore, convenience and efficiency can be improved in the analysis of the liquid or its components using a plurality of analysis channels.

  Furthermore, in the flow channel structure according to the present invention, a reagent that changes the characteristics of the liquid by reacting with the component to be analyzed in the absorbed liquid is fixed to the absorber. preferable.

  According to the above configuration, since the reagent is fixed to the absorber, the concentration of the component to be analyzed in the liquid can be measured at the position where the absorber is present.

  Furthermore, it is preferable that the flow path structure according to the present invention includes a filter that does not allow at least a specific component other than the component to be analyzed included in the liquid to pass therethrough.

  According to the above configuration, since the specific component is not allowed to pass, that is, the component to be analyzed can be mainly passed, the analysis accuracy in the analysis channel can be improved.

  Furthermore, in order to solve the above-described problems, the flow channel structure according to the present invention has a plurality of analytical streams that enable analysis of the liquid and analysis of components contained in the liquid by introducing the liquid. And when the force applied to the liquid in at least one analysis flow path among the plurality of analysis flow paths fluctuates, A force relaxation mechanism that relaxes propagation to the liquid in another different analysis flow path, and a force fluctuation mechanism that varies the force applied to the liquid is provided in the one analysis flow path. It is characterized by being connected.

  According to the above configuration, since the force fluctuation mechanism is connected to at least one of the analysis flow paths included in the flow path structure, the force fluctuation mechanism applies the liquid to the liquid in the analysis flow path. The power fluctuates. However, the force relaxation mechanism can alleviate propagation of the varied force to other analysis channels. Therefore, the flow of the introduced liquid can be maintained in each of the plurality of analysis flow paths, and the analysis of the liquid in the plurality of analysis flow paths and the analysis of the components contained in the liquid can be simplified. The mechanism makes it possible to perform efficiently.

  Furthermore, in the flow channel structure according to the present invention, the force fluctuation mechanism is preferably an aspirator that sucks the liquid flowing in the one analytical flow channel.

  According to the above configuration, the amount of liquid fed can be adjusted by controlling the suction force of the aspirator, so that the amount of liquid required for analysis can be set arbitrarily. Therefore, convenience for the analysis can be improved.

  On the other hand, even if the force applied to the liquid is changed by the suction device sucking the liquid, the force relaxation mechanism is provided, so that the propagation of the changed force to the liquid can be reduced. Therefore, convenience and efficiency can be improved in the analysis of the liquid or its components using a plurality of analysis channels.

  Furthermore, the channel chip according to the present invention preferably includes the channel structure described above.

According to the above configuration, since the flow channel chip includes the flow channel structure, the analysis of the liquid included in each of the plurality of analysis flow channels and the analysis of the components contained in the liquid are performed as in the flow channel structure. Can be efficiently performed by a simple mechanism.

  Furthermore, it is preferable that the analyzer according to the present invention includes the flow channel chip described above, and performs analysis of the liquid and components contained in the liquid.

  According to the above configuration, since the analysis apparatus includes the flow channel chip, similarly to the flow channel chip, the analysis of the liquid included in each of the plurality of analysis flow channels and the analysis of the components contained in the liquid are performed. It can be done efficiently.

  As described above, the flow channel structure according to the present invention includes a plurality of analysis flow channels that enable analysis of the liquid and analysis of components contained in the liquid by introducing the liquid, and the plurality of the flow channels. Among the analysis channels, a force variation mechanism that varies the force applied to the liquid in at least one analysis channel, and the one analysis flow that includes the force varied by the force variation mechanism. And a force relaxation mechanism that relaxes propagation to the liquid in another analysis flow path different from the path.

  Furthermore, the flow path structure according to the present invention, as described above, a plurality of analysis flow paths that enable analysis of the liquid and analysis of components contained in the liquid by introducing the liquid; Among the plurality of analysis channels, when the force applied to the liquid in at least one analysis channel changes, the changed force differs from the one analysis channel. A force relaxation mechanism that relaxes propagation to the liquid in the analysis flow channel, and a force variation mechanism that varies the force applied to the liquid is connected to the one analysis flow channel. It is the composition which is.

  Therefore, the flow channel structure of the present invention has an effect of enabling efficient analysis of liquid in a plurality of analysis flow channels and analysis of components contained in the liquid by a simple mechanism.

(A) is a top view which shows an example of schematic structure of the flow-path chip | tip which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention, (b) cuts the flow-path chip | tip shown to (a) by an AA 'line. It is sectional drawing which shows an example of schematic structure at the time. It is a figure which shows an example of schematic structure when the flow-path chip | tip shown in FIG. 1 is connected to the external pump. (A)-(c) is a figure which shows an example of schematic structure of the analyzer in which the flow-path chip | tip shown in FIG. 1 is inserted. (A) is a top view which shows an example of schematic structure of the flow-path chip | tip which concerns on another one Embodiment of this invention, (b) is an AA 'line | wire with the flow-path chip shown to (a). It is sectional drawing which shows an example of schematic structure when it cuts off by. (A) is sectional drawing which shows an example of schematic structure of the flow-path chip | tip which concerns on another one Embodiment of this invention, (b) is the liquid introduce | transduced into the flow-path chip | tip shown to (a). It is a figure which shows an example of the mode of time. It is a perspective view which shows an example of schematic structure of the gas storage part vicinity with which the flow-path chip | tip shown in FIG. 5 is provided. (A) is a top view which shows an example of schematic structure of the flow-path chip | tip which concerns on another one Embodiment of this invention, (b) has introduced the liquid into the flow-path chip | tip shown to (a). It is a figure which shows an example of the mode of time. It is a perspective view which shows an example of schematic structure of the gas storage part vicinity with which the flow-path chip | tip shown in FIG. 7 is provided. It is a top view which shows an example of schematic structure of the flow-path chip concerning another one Embodiment of this invention. (A) is a top view which shows an example of schematic structure of the flow-path chip | tip which concerns on another one Embodiment of this invention, (b) is a flow path chip shown to (a), AA ' It is sectional drawing which shows an example of schematic structure when cut with a line. (A) is a top view which shows an example of schematic structure of the flow-path chip | tip which concerns on another one Embodiment of this invention, (b) is a flow path chip shown to (a), AA ' It is sectional drawing which shows an example of schematic structure when cut with a line. It is a top view which shows schematic structure of the conventional flow-path chip | tip. (A) And (b) is a figure which shows a mode that the liquid introduce | transduced in the said conventional flow-path chip | tip flows.

  Each embodiment of the present invention will be described below, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. The liquid (sample) introduced into each embodiment includes, for example, an aqueous solution, a liquid sample such as blood and urine, a solvent sample containing an organic solvent such as alcohol, and a polymer solution sample such as a gel. .

[Embodiment 1]
An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

<Overall structure of flow channel chip 1>
First, the flow path chip 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a flow channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment, (a) is a top view showing an example of a schematic configuration of the flow channel chip 1, and (b) It is sectional drawing which shows an example of schematic structure when the flow-path chip | tip shown to (a) is cut | disconnected by the AA 'line. The channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment has a configuration including at least a channel structure formed by a plurality of analysis channels 13, a membrane 21, and a first opening 11.

  The flow channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment enables analysis of a liquid introduced into the flow channel chip 1 and analysis of components contained in the liquid. For example, these analyzes are performed by inserting the channel chip 1 into the analyzer 50 (see FIG. 3). In order to realize the analysis, the flow channel chip 1 includes a first opening (force relaxation mechanism, air passage, liquid introduction unit) 11, analysis flow channels 13 a and 13 b, Two openings 14a and 14b (force fluctuation mechanism), a membrane 21 (force fluctuation mechanism, absorber), a substrate 41, and a flow path forming substrate 42 are provided. In the description of each embodiment, the reference numerals of the plurality of analysis flow paths included in the flow path chip 1 may be “13” and the reference numerals of the plurality of second openings may be “14”.

  The first opening 11 is connected to the analysis channels 13a and 13b, and introduces the liquid to be analyzed into the analysis channels 13a and 13b. Moreover, the 1st opening part 11 becomes a structure open | released by air | atmosphere. For example, the first opening 11 has a cylindrical shape, and its inner diameter R (the length on the xy plane shown in FIG. 1A) is about 0.5 to 10 mm, and its height (thickness, figure). 1 (z direction shown in (b)) H is about 0.1 to 10 mm.

The analysis flow paths 13a and 13b enable the analysis of the liquid introduced from the first opening 11 and the analysis of the components contained in the liquid. Each other end is connected to the second openings 14a and 14b. Since the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b communicate with each other through the first opening 11, the same liquid is introduced into the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b at the same timing. However, the liquid introduced into the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b becomes an analysis target of the analysis device 50, for example, independently (for each of the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b).

  The width w of the analysis channels 13a and 13b is 1 to 5000 μm, preferably 100 to 2000 μm, and the depth is 1 to 1000 μm, preferably 10 to 300 μm. As described above, each of the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b is formed in the above-described size (micrometer order), so that the liquid introduced into each of the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b is fed. It can be said that it has a structure that generates capillary force as motive power for liquid. In this case, the liquid introduced into the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b can be made to flow in one direction without requiring the power generated by mechanisms other than the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b.

  The second openings 14 a and 14 b are open to the atmosphere, like the first opening 11, and promote liquid feeding of the liquid introduced from the first opening 11 to the second openings 14 a and 14 b. . In addition, at the bottoms (regions formed by the substrate 41) of the second openings 14a and 14b, in order to analyze the liquid or components of the liquid introduced into the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b, the liquid and the reagent A reaction part (described later) for reacting the above may be provided.

  As shown in FIG. 1B, the membrane 21 is one of absorbers that absorb the liquid introduced into the analysis flow path 13a. For example, the second opening connected to the analysis flow path 13a. It is mounted on the bottom of 14a. Thereby, like the 2nd opening part 14a, the liquid feeding to the 2nd opening part 14a side of the liquid introduce | transduced from the 1st opening part 11 is accelerated | stimulated. As the membrane 21, for example, a polymer membrane, a collagen membrane, a cellulose fiber, a glass fiber, a polymer fiber, a porous body, or the like having an absorptivity is used.

  By adjusting the size, pore (hole) diameter, material type, etc. of the membrane 21 and placing it, at least the amount of liquid absorbed in the analysis flow path 13a can be adjusted. The amount (sample amount) can be set arbitrarily. Therefore, convenience for the analysis can be improved.

  In addition, the liquid should just be able to flow to the area | regions (above-mentioned reaction part etc.) which can analyze a liquid or its component. For this reason, the membrane 21 is not necessarily provided at the bottom of the second opening 14a. For example, when the region exists in the middle of the analysis channel 13a, the membrane 21 in the analysis channel 13a You may provide behind the area | region with respect to the liquid direction.

  The substrate 41 functions as a pedestal of the flow channel chip 1 and as the bottom of the first opening 11, the analysis flow channels 13a and 13b, and the second openings 14a and 14b, and is made of glass or resin. . The flow path forming substrate 42 forms the shape of each member formed in the flow path chip 1, and specifically, the side surfaces and the openings of the first opening portion 11 and the second opening portions 14 a and 14 b. The side surfaces and upper portions (regions facing the bottom portion) of the analysis flow channels 13a and 13b are formed. Similarly to the substrate 41, the flow path forming substrate 42 is made of glass, resin, or the like.

<Function of the first opening 11>
The liquid introduced from the first opening 11 reaches the bottom of the first opening 11 and is then introduced into the analysis channels 13a and 13b, for example, by capillary force.

Here, in this Embodiment, the case where the 1st opening part 11 is not open | released by air | atmosphere is considered. In this case, since the absorbent membrane 21 is placed on the bottom of the second opening 14a, in addition to the capillary force applied to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a, the absorption of the membrane 21 is performed. A force is applied, and the propulsive force toward the second opening 14a is increased. On the other hand, since the membrane 21 is not placed on the bottom of the second opening 14b, the force in the direction opposite to the force applied to the liquid in the analysis channel 13b (the direction returning to the first opening 11) is reversed. A force is applied, and the propulsive force toward the second opening 14b is weakened.

  That is, the membrane 21 functions as a force variation mechanism that varies the force applied to the liquid in at least one analysis channel 13a among the plurality of analysis channels 13a and 13b. Then, as the force changed by the membrane 21 propagates to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13b, the liquid in the analysis flow path 13b stops or reversely flows as described with reference to FIGS. Therefore, there is a possibility that the second opening 14b (the end of the analysis flow path 13b) may not be reached.

  However, in the present embodiment, since the first opening portion 11 opened to the atmosphere is provided, another analysis flow different from the analysis flow path 13a with the force changed by the membrane 21 due to the opening is provided. Propagation to the liquid in the channel 13b can be reduced. This is because the gas compressibility is higher than the liquid compressibility, and the space of the first opening 11 is wider than the space of the analysis flow path 13b, so that the force propagated from the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a. This is because it is easily guided not to the analysis flow path 13b but above the first opening 11 (the direction away from the bottom, the z direction shown in FIG. 1B).

  That is, even if the membrane 21 fluctuates the force applied to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a by the absorption force, the fluctuating force is propagated to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13b before It propagates to the gas (for example, air) in the 1st opening part 11 which functions as a force relaxation mechanism, and is escaped to the atmosphere. Accordingly, since the force applied to the liquid in the plurality of analysis flow paths 13a and 13b can be maintained constant, the flow of the introduced liquid is maintained in each of the plurality of analysis flow paths 13a and 13b. Can do. Therefore, the analysis of the liquid in the plurality of analysis flow paths 13a and 13b and the analysis of the components contained in the liquid can be efficiently performed by a simple mechanism.

  Further, since the force relaxation mechanism can be realized by the first opening 11 opened to the atmosphere, the gas storage portions 32 and 33 (described later) that function as the force relaxation mechanism and are closed spaces formed in the flow channel chip 1. ) Stronger force relaxation effect can be obtained.

  In the present embodiment, since the first opening 11 for introducing the liquid into the plurality of analysis flow paths 13a and 13b also functions as a force relaxation mechanism, the force required by the member necessary for introducing the liquid A relaxation mechanism can be realized. That is, it is possible to avoid the trouble of manufacturing the flow path chip 1 such as forming a force relaxation mechanism separately.

  In the above description, the membrane 21 is described as a force fluctuation mechanism, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the volume, cross-sectional area, wall surface state, and the like of the second openings 14a and 14b are different, the liquid in the analysis channels 13a and 13b connected to the second openings 14a and 14b, respectively. The applied force is different. In this case, one of the second openings 14a and 14b that strongly applies a force applied in the liquid feeding direction functions as a force fluctuation mechanism. Further, even when the membrane 21 is placed on the bottoms of both the second openings 14a and 14b, if there is a difference in the absorptive power of the membranes 21 placed on the bottoms, the absorptive power The stronger membrane 21 acts as a force fluctuation mechanism.

<Pump 23>
Next, a schematic configuration when the suction port (not shown) of the pump 23 is connected to the second opening portion 14a side of the flow path chip 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration when the flow channel chip 1 is connected to the external pump 23. In this case, the channel chip 1 has a configuration including at least a channel structure formed by the plurality of analysis channels 13 and the first openings 11.

  The pump 23 sucks the liquid introduced from the first opening 11 through the suction port, and is a device that mainly sucks the liquid on the analysis channel 13a side to the outside of the channel chip 1. is there. In other words, the pump 23 is an aspirator (force fluctuation mechanism) that sucks the liquid flowing in the at least one analysis flow path 13a. By using the pump 23, the suction force and the liquid feeding speed with respect to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a can be kept constant.

  In addition, by controlling the suction force, at least the amount of liquid fed in the analysis flow path 13a can be adjusted, so that the amount of liquid required for analysis can be arbitrarily set. Therefore, convenience for the analysis can be improved.

  FIG. 2 shows a configuration in which the membrane 21 is mounted on the bottom of the second opening 14a and the suction port of the pump 23 is connected to the second opening 14a. Alternatively, the configuration may be such that the membrane 21 is not placed on the bottom of any of the second openings 14a and 14b. That is, in FIG. 2, the flow channel chip 1 does not include a force variation mechanism that varies the force applied to the liquid in the analysis flow channel 13a, and the force variation mechanism (pump 23) It exists outside the chip 1 and may be connected to the analysis flow path 13a.

<Function of first opening 11 when connected to pump 23>
As described above, the pump 23 can maintain the suction force and the liquid feeding speed with respect to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a to improve the convenience for the analysis of the liquid or its components. Due to the suction force with respect to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a, the force applied to the liquid varies. That is, like the membrane 21, the pump 23 has a function as a force variation mechanism that varies the force applied to the liquid in the at least one analysis flow path 13a.

  However, when the force applied to the liquid in at least one analysis flow path 13a fluctuates, the flow path chip 1 shown in FIG. 2 is different from the one analysis flow path 13a of the fluctuating force. A first opening 11 is provided for relaxing propagation to a liquid in another different analysis flow path 13b. Therefore, even if the pump 23 fluctuates the force applied to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a by the suction force, the fluctuating force is propagated to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13b. Then, it propagates to the gas in the first opening 11 and escapes to the atmosphere. Therefore, as in the case of FIG. 1, the propagation of the force changed by the pump 23 to the liquid in the other analysis channel 13b different from the analysis channel 13a can be reduced.

  In the biosensor disclosed in Patent Document 1, a liquid feeding mechanism such as a pump cannot be provided or connected to each sensor unit. This is because the flow of the liquid to each sensor unit cannot be controlled. For this reason, Patent Document 1 does not have a motive for providing the biosensor with a force relaxation mechanism that relieves propagation of force changed by a liquid delivery mechanism such as a pump.

<Analyzer 50>
Next, the schematic configuration of the analyzer 50 into which the flow channel chip 1 is inserted will be described with reference to FIG. 3A to 3C are diagrams illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of the analyzer 50 into which the flow channel chip 1 is inserted. FIGS. 3A and 3B show an example of an analyzer 50 that receives light emitted from the light emitting element 51 and reflected or scattered by the flow path chip 1 by the light receiving element 52. On the other hand, FIG. 3C shows an example of the analyzer 50 that receives light emitted from the light emitting element 51 and transmitted through the flow path chip 1 by the light receiving element 52.

The analysis device 50 analyzes the liquid introduced into each of the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b of the flow path chip 1 or analyzes the components contained in the liquid, and (a) to (c) of FIG. ), For example, a light emitting element 51, a light receiving element 52, and an analysis unit 53 are provided. The light emitting element 51 and the light receiving element 52 form an optical system of the analyzer 50.

  FIG. 3 shows a configuration in which the membrane 21 is placed on the analysis flow path 13a of the flow path chip 1 and the pump 23 is connected to the second opening 14a. A configuration in which either the membrane 21 or the pump 23 is mounted or connected to at least one of the plurality of analysis flow paths 13 may be employed.

  The light emitting element 51 is composed of, for example, an LED or the like, and a reaction part (for example, a reaction part 22 described later) is provided in each analysis flow path 13a, 13b (each analysis flow path 13 or each second opening 14). In this case, each reaction part) is irradiated with light.

  The light receiving element 52 receives light reflected or scattered by the flow path chip 1 as a result of irradiating the inserted flow path chip 1 or transmitted through the flow path chip 1. The light receiving element 52 transmits the amount of received light to the analysis unit 53.

  For example, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the light receiving element 52 has a light emitting element 51 with respect to the inserted flow channel chip 1 (an insertion portion (not shown) into which the fluid chip 1 is inserted). And receives the above reflected light or scattered light. In FIG. 3A, the light emitting element 51 and the light receiving element 52 are provided on the upper side of the fluid chip 1 (the insertion part). In FIG. 3B, the fluid chip 1 (the insertion part) is provided. An example provided on the lower side is shown.

  In general, since the reaction part is formed of the membrane 21 or a reagent, the light emitted from the light emitting element 51 is reflected or scattered without passing through the reaction part. Therefore, when the reaction part is provided in the flow path chip 1, the reaction of the liquid or the component in the reaction part is measured (analyzed) by receiving the light reflected or scattered in the reaction part by the light receiving element 52. Is done. That is, in the analysis device 50 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the reaction part is provided in the flow channel chip 1, and the reaction measurement of the liquid or its components by the reaction part (analysis of the reaction). ) Is performed effectively based on reflected light or scattered light.

  On the other hand, in the case of FIG. 3C, the light receiving element 52 is provided at a position facing the light emitting element 51 with the inserted flow path chip 1 (the insertion portion) interposed therebetween, and the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b are connected. Receives the transmitted light. This configuration is particularly effective when the flow channel chip 1 is not provided with the reaction part and the reaction measurement of the liquid in the analysis flow channels 13a and 13b or its components is performed based on the transmitted light. It is a configuration that can be used.

  The analysis unit 53 analyzes the liquid in each analysis flow path 13a, 13b or a component contained in the liquid. For example, the analysis unit 53 moves the light emitting element 51 and the light receiving element 52 along the flow path chip 1 and performs the above analysis based on the amount of received light transmitted from the light receiving element 52. Further, when there is a reaction part, the concentration of the component in the liquid is obtained from the amount of received light, for example, by analyzing the color development state in the reaction part.

  In this manner, by inserting the flow channel chip 1 into the analysis device 50, it is possible to efficiently analyze the liquid or each component included in each of the plurality of analysis flow channels 13.

[Embodiment 2]
Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, about the member similar to Embodiment 1, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 4 shows a schematic configuration of the flow channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment, (a) is a top view showing an example of a schematic configuration of the flow channel chip 1, and (b) It is sectional drawing which shows an example of schematic structure when the flow-path chip | tip 1 shown to (a) is cut | disconnected by the AA 'line. The channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment has a configuration including at least a channel structure formed by a plurality of analysis channels 13, a membrane 21, and a third opening 31.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the flow path chip 1 according to the present embodiment includes a third opening (air passage) 31 as a force relaxation mechanism, and the first opening 11 and the third opening 31 are introduced. It differs from the flow path chip 1 according to the first embodiment in that it is connected by the flow path 12 for use. Since the function of the first opening portion 11 as the liquid introduction portion is the same, the description thereof is omitted here. In the present embodiment, the first opening portion 11 may function as a force relaxation mechanism as in the third opening portion 31, and in this case, the force relaxation effect is enhanced.

  As shown in FIG. 4A, the introduction flow path 12 is connected to the first opening 11 and the third opening 31, and allows the liquid introduced from the first opening 11 to pass through the third opening. The liquid is sent to the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b via the section 31. The shape and size of the introduction channel 12 may be the same as those of the analysis channels 13a and 13b. In this case, the introduced liquid can be sent to the third opening 31 by capillary force. It becomes.

  The third opening 31 is connected to each of the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b, and is a ventilation path opened to the atmosphere as shown in FIG. Similar to the first opening 11, it functions as a force relaxation mechanism. Therefore, even if the force applied to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a changes due to the absorption force of the membrane 21 provided at the bottom of the second opening 14a, the changed force is used for analysis. Propagation to the flow path 13b can be mitigated.

  The third opening 31 is connected between the introduction channel 12 and the analysis channels 13a and 13b. Therefore, not only fluctuations in force due to the absorption force of the membrane 21, but also applied to the liquid in one analysis flow path 13 by a propulsive force (pressing force) applied to the liquid introduced from the introduction flow path 12. It is possible to suppress the fluctuation of the applied force and the propagation of the changed force to the other analysis channel 13.

  Further, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, the third opening 31 is directly connected to each of the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b, and thus the introduction flow path 12 connected to the third opening 31 is provided. The function as a force relaxation mechanism can be exhibited without depending on the structure.

[Embodiment 3]
Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 as follows. In addition, about the member similar to Embodiment 1, 2, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 5 shows a schematic configuration of the flow channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment, (a) is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a schematic configuration of the flow channel chip 1, and (b) It is a figure which shows an example of a mode when a liquid is introduce | transduced into the flow-path chip | tip 1 shown to (a). FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an example of a schematic configuration in the vicinity of the gas storage portion 32 included in the flow channel chip 1 shown in FIG. The channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment has a configuration including at least a channel structure formed by a plurality of analysis channels 13, a membrane 21, and a gas storage unit 32.

The flow path chip 1 according to the present embodiment differs from the flow path chip 1 according to the second embodiment in that a gas storage portion 32 is provided instead of the third opening 31 as a force relaxation mechanism. . In addition, the top view which shows schematic structure of the flow-path chip | tip 1 which concerns on this Embodiment becomes a figure by which the 3rd opening part 31 was substituted to the gas storage part 32 in (a) of FIG. That is, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration when the flow path chip 1 is cut along the line AA ′ in FIG. 4A in which the third opening 31 is replaced with the gas storage portion 32. is there.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, the gas storage portion 32 is provided between the introduction flow path 12 and the analysis flow path 13a, and is also connected to the analysis flow path 13b. Moreover, gas is stored in the gas storage part 32 as shown in FIG. That is, even in a state where the liquid L is introduced, the space A formed by gas is at least partially included. For this reason, the gas storage section 32 is provided between the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b, so that when the liquid L is introduced from the introduction flow path 12 to the gas storage section 32, the gas storage section 32 has a gas space. A can be left. Since the gas contained in the space A has compressibility, the force applied to the liquid L in the analysis flow path 13a is fluctuated by the absorption force of the membrane 21 placed in the analysis flow path 13a. Even if it occurs, the changed force can be absorbed by the gas. Therefore, propagation of the fluctuating force to the analysis flow path 13b can be mitigated by the gas space A formed in the gas storage portion 32. That is, the gas storage part 32 functions as a force relaxation mechanism.

  When the gas storage portion 32 is formed, the flow path is formed separately from the process of forming the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b like the first opening 11 or the third opening 31 opened to the atmosphere. There is no need to form an open hole in the substrate 42. That is, the gas storage portion 32 can be formed together with the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b. Therefore, the gas storage portion 32 can be easily formed as compared with the case where the first opening portion 11 or the third opening portion 31 as the force relaxation mechanism is formed. Furthermore, since the amount of the liquid L staying in the gas storage portion 32 can be reduced as compared with the first opening portion 11 and the third opening portion 31, the volume of the liquid L required for analysis can be reduced. .

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6, the gas storage portion 32 is formed on the bottom portion (FIG. A first distance (height of the gas storage portion 32) h1 which is a distance in the vertical direction with respect to the substrate 41 shown in the drawing is in a cross section perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction (x direction in FIG. 6) of the analysis flow path 13a. It is longer than a second distance (height of the analysis flow path 13a) h2 which is a distance perpendicular to the bottom of the analysis flow path 13a (the substrate 41 shown in FIG. 5A). That is, it can be said that the gas storage portion 32 has a configuration in which the cross-sectional area increases in the height direction of the analysis flow path 13.

  Thereby, the gas storage part 32 which has the breadth in the perpendicular direction (thickness direction) can be formed. Then, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the liquid L is introduced into the gas storage section 32, the gas space A that is not formed in the analysis flow paths 13 a and 13 b is changed to at least the gas storage section 32. It can be reliably formed in part.

  Moreover, it is preferable that the height h1 of the gas storage part 32 is 1.5 times or more of the height h2 of the analysis flow path 13a. In this case, even if the force applied to the liquid L in the analysis flow path 13a changes due to the absorption force of the membrane 21 placed in the analysis flow path 13a, the changed force is used for analysis. A gas that can be sufficiently relaxed to propagate to the flow path 13 b can be accommodated in the gas storage portion 32. In order to further enhance this force relaxation effect, the height h1 of the gas storage portion 32 is more preferably 10 times or more the height h2 of the analysis flow path 13a. In the present embodiment, the gas storage portion 32 is a rectangular parallelepiped having a length of 2 mm in the liquid feeding direction to the analysis flow path 13a, a width of 300 μm, and a height h1 of 500 μm, but is limited to this size and shape. It is not what was given.

Further, even if the volume of the gas storage portion 32 is 1.5 times or more, preferably 10 times or more, the volume of the analysis flow path 13a, a sufficient force relaxation effect can be obtained as described above.

  Even if the height h1 of the gas storage section 32 is less than 1.5 times the height h2 of the analysis flow path 13a, the volume of the gas storage section 32 is 1.. Even if it is less than five times, it is possible to form the gas space A in the gas storage portion 32. However, since the amount of gas decreases, the force relaxation effect may be weakened. Even if the gas space 32 is not formed in the gas storage portion 32 and is filled with the liquid L, the height h1 and the volume of the gas storage portion 32 are the same as the height h2 of the analysis flow path 13a and Since it is larger than the volume, some force relaxation effect can be obtained by the liquid L spreading in the gas storage portion 32.

  In the above description, the size (height or volume) of the gas storage portion 32 is defined based on the size of the analysis channel 13a directly connected to the second opening 14a provided with the membrane 21. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be defined based on the size of the analysis flow path 13b. That is, the size of the gas storage portion 32 may be defined based on the size of any analysis flow path 13 among the plurality of analysis flow paths 13 included in the flow path chip 1.

  In addition, the first distance h1 of the gas storage unit 32 and the second distance h2 of the analysis flow path 13a are concepts including not only each “height” but also each “depth”.

[Embodiment 4]
Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 as follows. In addition, about the member similar to Embodiment 1-3, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 7 shows a schematic configuration of the flow channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment, (a) is a top view showing an example of a schematic configuration of the flow channel chip 1, and (b) It is a figure which shows an example of a mode when a liquid is introduce | transduced into the flow-path chip | tip 1 shown to (a). FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing an example of a schematic configuration in the vicinity of the gas storage unit 33 provided in the flow channel chip 1 shown in FIG. The channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment has a configuration including a channel structure formed by at least a plurality of analysis channels 13, a membrane 21, and a gas storage unit 33.

  The channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment is different from the channel chip 1 according to the third embodiment in that a gas storage unit 33 is provided instead of the gas storage unit 32 as a force relaxation mechanism.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, the gas storage section 33 is connected to the introduction flow path 12 and the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b, as with the gas storage section 32. Moreover, as shown in FIG.7 (b), gas is stored in the gas storage part 33. FIG. That is, even in a state where the liquid L is introduced, the space A formed by gas is at least partially included. Therefore, by providing the gas storage portion 33 between the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b, when the liquid L is introduced from the introduction flow path 12 to the gas storage section 33, a gas space is introduced into the gas storage section 33. A can be left. Since the gas contained in the space A has compressibility, the force applied to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a varies due to the absorption force of the membrane 21 placed in the analysis flow path 13a. Even so, the changed force can be absorbed by the gas. Therefore, it is possible to mitigate the propagation of the fluctuating force to the analysis flow path 13b by the gas space A formed in the gas storage portion 33. That is, the gas storage part 33 also functions as a force relaxation mechanism.

Further, as in the third embodiment, apart from the process of forming the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b, the flow path forming substrate 42 is provided with an open hole (first opening 11 or third opening 31) as a force relaxation mechanism. There is no need to form. Therefore, the gas storage portion 33 can be easily formed as compared with the case where the first opening portion 11 or the third opening portion 31 is formed. Further, since the amount of the liquid L staying in the gas storage portion 33 can be reduced as compared with the first opening portion 11 or the third opening portion 31, the volume of the liquid L required for analysis can be reduced. . Further, unlike the formation of the gas storage portion 32, the gas storage portion 33 does not need to be processed in the thickness direction of the flow path forming substrate 42, and can be formed more easily than the gas storage portion 32.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the gas storage unit 33 has a horizontal distance from the bottom of the gas storage unit 33 in a cross section perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction of the gas storage unit 33 (the x direction in FIG. 8). A certain third distance (width of the gas storage portion 33) w1 is a fourth distance that is a distance in the horizontal direction with respect to the bottom of the analysis flow path 13a in the cross section perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction of the analysis flow path 13a. (Width of analysis channel 13a) is longer than w. That is, it can be said that the gas storage portion 33 has a configuration in which the cross-sectional area increases in the horizontal plane direction of the analysis flow path 13.

  Thereby, the gas storage part 33 which has the breadth in the horizontal direction can be formed. As shown in FIG. 7B, when the liquid L is introduced into the gas storage unit 33, the gas space A that is not formed in the analysis flow paths 13 a and 13 b is changed to at least the gas storage unit 33. It can be reliably formed in part. In the present embodiment, the gas storage unit 33 is a rectangular parallelepiped having a length in the liquid feeding direction to the analysis flow path 13a of 1 mm, a width w1 of 2 mm, and a height of 50 μm. However, the gas storage unit 33 is limited to this size and shape. It is not what was given.

  Further, the gas storage portion 33 has a predetermined angle (channel expansion angle) α with respect to a straight line extending from the side wall of the introduction channel 12 so that a gas space A is formed in a part of the gas storage unit 33. It is preferable to be formed. Specifically, in the case of FIG. 7A, the gas storage portion 33 is formed such that the predetermined angle α is 90 degrees.

  In general, the liquid has a property of spreading in a taper shape in the traveling direction. That is, the liquid L that has flowed along the side wall of the introduction flow path 12 proceeds in a taper shape with a certain extent in the gas storage portion 33. Therefore, when the predetermined angle α is small (for example, 0 ° ≦ α <45 °), the liquid L flowing along the side wall of the introduction flow path 12 is stored in the gas even after being introduced into the gas storage unit 33. The possibility of flowing along the side wall of the portion 33 is increased. In this case, in the gas storage part 33, the gas space A cannot be formed, or the space A may be very small, and the force relaxation effect may not be sufficiently obtained.

  On the other hand, when the predetermined angle α is large (for example, α ≧ 45 °), as shown in FIG. 7B, the side wall of the gas storage portion 33 among the liquid L introduced from the introduction flow path 12. It is possible to reduce the amount of the liquid L flowing along the flow path, and to flow most of the liquid L to the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b, which are the original traveling directions. Therefore, it is possible to form a gas space A in which a sufficient force relaxation effect can be obtained in the gas storage portion 33.

  In consideration of sufficiently obtaining the above-described force relaxation effect, the predetermined angle α is preferably 45 ° or more, and preferably 90 ° or more. That is, the larger the predetermined angle α, the larger the gas space A can be. However, if the strength of the effect is not taken into consideration, the angle α may be less than 45 °.

  In addition, in order to obtain a sufficient force relaxation effect, the volume of the gas storage unit 33 is preferably 1.5 times or more, and preferably 10 times or more, the volume of the analysis flow path 13a. If the strength of the force relaxation effect is not taken into account, the volume may be less than 1.5 times the volume of the analysis flow path 13a. Similarly to the gas storage unit 32, the volume of the gas storage unit 33 may be defined not by the analysis flow channel 13 a but by any of the plurality of analysis flow channels 13.

  Further, in order to efficiently form the gas space A, as shown in FIG. 7B, the gas storage portion 33 is connected to the gas storage portion 33 of the introduction flow path 12 and is used for analysis. It is preferable that the flow paths 13a and 13b are formed at positions separated from the straight line connecting the connection regions with the respective gas storage portions 33.

  Furthermore, although the gas storage part 32 becomes a structure which has a breadth in the height direction and the gas storage part 33 respectively in the width direction, the gas storage part which spreads in the both directions may be formed. In this case, the space A formed by the gas can be further increased.

[Embodiment 5]
Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, about the member similar to Embodiment 1-4, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted. FIG. 9 is a top view illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of the flow path chip 1 according to the present embodiment. In addition, the arrow in FIG. 9 is the advancing direction of the liquid when the liquid is introduced from the first opening 11.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment includes analysis channels 13 a to 13 d as a plurality of analysis channels 13, and each of the analysis channels 13 a to 13 d has a force. It is connected to the introduction flow path 12 via a third opening 31 as a relaxation mechanism. That is, the third opening 31 is connected to all of the plurality of analysis flow paths 13a to 13d.

  In this case, when the membrane 21 placed in the second opening 14a fluctuates the force applied to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a by the absorption force, the changed force Propagation to the liquid in the analysis flow paths 13 b to 13 d can be mitigated by one third opening 31.

  Note that each of the analysis flow paths 13a to 13d is connected to the second openings 14a to 14d at end portions different from the connection region of the third opening 31. The analysis channels 13c and 13d have the same functions, shapes, and sizes as the analysis channels 13a and 13b, and the second openings 14c and 14d are the same as the second openings 14a and 14b. It has function, shape and size.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the third opening 31 is provided as the force relaxation mechanism is described, but the gas storage part 32 or the gas storage part 33 may be provided instead of the third opening 31. Good.

  In addition, the first opening 11 may not be connected to the analysis flow paths 13 a to 13 d via the introduction flow path 12. In this case, as shown in the first embodiment, the first opening 11 functions as a force relaxation mechanism, and the analysis flow paths 13a to 13d are directly connected to the first opening 11.

  Moreover, although the case where the number of the analysis flow paths 13 is four is illustrated in the present embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto, and two or more analysis flow paths 13 may be provided. In addition, what demonstrated the case where the flow path 13 for analysis was two is Embodiment 1-4.

[Embodiment 6]
Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, about the member similar to Embodiment 1-5, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the flow channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment, (a) is a top view showing an example of a schematic configuration of the flow channel chip 1, and (b) These are sectional drawings which show an example of schematic structure when the flow-path chip | tip 1 shown to (a) is cut | disconnected by the AA 'line.

  In the channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment, the reaction part 22 is provided at the bottom of both the second openings 14a and 14b. Other than that, the structure is the same as in the first embodiment. In addition, the reaction part 22 may be provided in the middle of the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b instead of the bottoms of the second openings 14a and 14b.

  The reaction unit 22 reacts with the membrane 21 that absorbs the liquid in the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b and the liquid absorbed by the membrane 21, or the component to be analyzed in the liquid, thereby changing the characteristics of the liquid. And a reagent to be changed. In the present embodiment, a reagent that reacts with some of the components contained in the liquid is fixed to the membrane 21 in a dried state. As this reagent, for example, when the liquid is blood, and cholesterol is measured, cholesterol esterase, cholesterol oxidase, peroxidase, 3,5-dimethoxy-N-ethyl-N- (2-hydroxy-3-sulfo And a color former mainly composed of sodium propyl) -aniline, 4-aminoantipyrine, and ascorbate oxidase. In the case of measuring the uric acid level, uricase, peroxidase, 4-aminoantipyrine lipoprotein lipase, a color former mainly composed of ascorbate oxidase and the like can be mentioned.

  In the reaction unit 22, the liquid absorbed by the membrane 21 reacts with the reagent fixed on the membrane 21 and develops color (or color). That is, the liquid causes a color development reaction (or color reaction) by the reagent. Then, by inserting the flow channel chip 1 after the color development reaction into, for example, the analysis device 50, the change in the color of some of the components contained in the liquid in the reaction unit 22 is detected and analyzed. Can be determined (measured).

  Thus, the concentration of the component to be analyzed in the liquid can be measured at the position where the reaction unit 22 is provided (in FIG. 10A, the bottom of each of the second openings 14a and 14b). . Further, when reagents that react with different components in the introduced liquid are selected as the reagents contained in the reaction section 22 connected to the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b, different components in the liquid are selected. Concentration measurement can be performed almost simultaneously on one channel chip 1.

  Moreover, when the reaction part 22 is provided in the bottom part of 2nd opening part 14a, 14b, fixation of the reagent to the membrane 21 can be performed out of the analysis flow paths 13a, 13b. Therefore, even if the conditions for immobilization on the membrane 21 are different for each reagent, the reagent can be immobilized on each membrane 21 without worrying about the conditions.

  Further, when the absorption power of the membrane 21 placed in the second openings 14a and 14b is different, the membrane 21 having a strong absorption power varies the force applied to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a. Become. However, since the first opening portion 11 is provided as a force relaxation mechanism, it is possible to reduce the propagation of the changed force to the liquid in the other analysis channel 13b.

  The channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment has the same structure as the channel chip 1 according to the first embodiment. That is, the flow channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment has a configuration in which the reaction unit 22 is provided at all the bottoms of the second openings 14a and 14b of the flow channel chip 1 according to the first embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and in the flow channel chip 1 according to Embodiments 2 to 5, even if the reaction part 22 is provided in the entire bottom part of the second opening part 14, the same effect as described above is obtained.

[Embodiment 7]
Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, about the member similar to Embodiment 1, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the flow channel chip 1 according to the present embodiment, (a) is a top view showing an example of a schematic configuration of the flow channel chip 1, and (b) These are sectional drawings which show an example of schematic structure when the flow-path chip | tip 1 shown to (a) is cut | disconnected by the AA 'line.

  The flow path chip 1 according to the present embodiment includes a filter 61 as shown in FIG. The filter 61 has a function of preventing each of the reaction units 22 connected to the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b from passing a specific component other than the component to be analyzed. In other words, the filter 61 does not allow at least a specific component other than the component to be analyzed contained in the introduced liquid to pass therethrough. Examples of the filter 61 include a polysulfone membrane having a pore diameter of 1 to 10 μm when the liquid is blood and blood cells in the blood are removed to measure cholesterol levels.

  By providing this filter 61, it is possible to pass only the component to be analyzed mainly without passing the specific component not to be analyzed in the flow path chip 1. That is, unnecessary components (particles, cells, etc.) in the liquid can be trapped by the filter 61 and only the necessary components can be introduced into the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b. Therefore, it is possible to improve the analysis accuracy in each reaction unit 22 connected to the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the filter 61 is provided inside the first opening 11, but is not limited to this, and the space from the first opening 11 to the reaction unit 22 (for example, The introduction channel 12 and the analysis channels 13a and 13b) may be provided. However, when the analysis is performed using the liquid in the analysis flow paths 13a and 13b or components thereof instead of the reaction section 22, the first opening 11 or the introduction flow path 12 is preferably provided. In view of the ease of manufacturing the channel chip 1, it is preferable to provide the first channel 11.

  Further, when the filter 61 is provided in order to increase the analysis accuracy in each reaction unit 22, a load is applied to the absorption force of the membrane 21, and the amount of liquid that can be absorbed by the membrane 21 compared to the case where the filter 61 is not provided. Decrease. For this reason, the presence of the filter 61 may prevent the membrane 21 from stably absorbing the liquid.

  However, in the present embodiment, since the third opening 31 is provided, the liquid that has passed through the filter 61 can be temporarily retained in the third opening 31. In this case, the membrane 21 absorbs the staying liquid. Therefore, the membrane 21 can absorb the liquid regardless of the resistance that the filter 61 gives to the liquid (without being affected by the load).

  Further, when the absorption power of the membrane 21 placed in the second openings 14a and 14b is different, the membrane 21 having a strong absorption power varies the force applied to the liquid in the analysis flow path 13a. Become. However, since the third opening 31 serving as a force relaxation mechanism is provided, it is possible to reduce the propagation of the changed force to the liquid in the other analysis channel 13b.

  The third opening 31 may be the gas storage part 32 or the gas storage part 33. Even if the filter 61 is provided in the flow channel chip 1 according to Embodiments 2 to 5 (that is, the flow channel chip 1 in which the reaction unit 22 is provided only at the bottom of the second opening 14a), the same as above. There is an effect.

[Method for Manufacturing Channel Chip 1]
The flow path chip 1 according to each of the above embodiments includes, for example, a flow path forming substrate 42, a first opening 11, an introduction flow path 12, an analysis flow path 13, and a second opening 14. After the third opening 31, the gas storage part 32 and / or the gas storage part 33 are processed, the processed flow path forming substrate 42 is bonded to the substrate 41. Each part formed on the flow path forming substrate 42 is formed by wet etching / dry etching, molding by a mold, machining, or the like.

[Another expression of the present invention]
The present invention relates to a liquid feeding method to a plurality of analysis units (analysis flow path, reaction unit) for analyzing multi-item components in a liquid sample, a multi-item inspection microchip, and an analysis apparatus. Can be expressed as follows.

  That is, the liquid feeding method of the present invention includes a liquid feeding mechanism in which the liquid feeding mechanism includes two or more branched flow paths and a liquid feeding mechanism at one end of at least one of the flow paths. This is realized by connecting a pressure adjusting flow path (pressure adjusting flow path) to the flow path provided with.

  Furthermore, it is preferable that a gas space is provided inside the flow channel after the liquid is introduced into the pressure control channel. Furthermore, the pressure adjusting channel is preferably a channel opened to the atmosphere.

  Furthermore, the flow path structure of the present invention includes a flow path structure including a portion that generates two or more flow paths and a first flow path that is one of the flow paths to generate a liquid suction force. The other channels are connected to each other through the pressure adjusting channel.

  Further, the flow path structure of the present invention is a flow path structure provided with a portion for generating a liquid suction force at the end of the first flow path that is two or more flow paths and one of the flow paths. A flow path is provided, and the first flow path and the pressure adjustment flow path are connected.

[Additional Notes]
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means appropriately modified within the scope of the claims are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  For example, the number, size, shape, arrangement position, and the like of the analysis flow path 13 provided in the flow path chip 1 are not limited to the above, and may be appropriately changed depending on, for example, the liquid to be analyzed. Further, the size and shape of the analysis channel 13 do not have to be the same as each other, and may be different for each analysis channel 13 depending on the component of the liquid to be analyzed, for example.

  Further, the analysis device 50 analyzes the liquid or its components in the flow channel chip 1 by optical detection by an optical system including the light emitting element 51 and the light receiving element 52. May be performed by automatic detection. In this case, the analysis is performed by providing a measurement electrode on the bottom of each analysis flow channel 13 or each second opening 14 of the flow channel chip 1 and applying a voltage to the measurement electrode.

  In addition, the analysis of the liquid or its components in the flow channel chip 1 is premised on the fact that it is performed using the analyzer 50. However, the present invention is not limited to this. An analysis based on the change state (for example, determination of presence or absence of a predetermined component) may be performed. That is, the analysis is not limited to the analysis by the analysis device 50.

In the first to fifth embodiments, the configuration in which the membrane 21 is mounted on the bottom of the second opening 14a connected to the analysis flow path 13a or the pump 23 is connected has been described. However, the membrane 21 may be placed or the pump 23 may be connected to any of the analysis channels 13b to 13d (second openings 14b to 14d). In each embodiment, the membrane 21 (or the reaction unit 22) may be placed on or connected to at least one of the plurality of analysis flow paths 13.

  The flow channel structure according to the present invention enables efficient analysis of a liquid in a plurality of flow channels for analysis and analysis of components contained in the liquid, and is used in, for example, a clinical test POCT. It can be suitably used as a disposable inspection chip.

1 Channel chip (channel structure)
11 1st opening part (force relaxation mechanism, ventilation path, liquid introduction part)
13, 13a to 13d Analysis flow path 14, 14a to 14d Second opening (force fluctuation mechanism)
21 Membrane (force fluctuation mechanism, absorber)
23 Pump (force fluctuation mechanism, aspirator)
31 3rd opening (force relaxation mechanism, ventilation path)
32 Gas storage (force relaxation mechanism)
33 Gas storage (force relaxation mechanism)
50 Analyzer 61 Filter A Gas space (space formed by gas)
L Liquid h1 Height of gas storage (first distance)
h2 Height of analysis channel (second distance)
w1 Width of gas storage (third distance)
w Analysis channel width (4th distance)

Claims (16)

A plurality of flow paths for analysis that enable analysis of the liquid and analysis of components contained in the liquid by introducing the liquid;
A force fluctuation mechanism that fluctuates a force applied to the liquid in at least one analysis flow path among the plurality of analysis flow paths;
A force mitigation mechanism for mitigating propagation of the force varied by the force variation mechanism to the liquid in another analysis flow channel different from the one analysis flow channel. The flow path structure.   The flow path structure according to claim 1, wherein the force relaxation mechanism is a gas storage portion in which gas is stored.   In the cross section perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction of the gas storage section, the first distance, which is the distance perpendicular to the bottom of the gas storage section, is in the cross section perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction of the one analysis channel. 3. The flow channel structure according to claim 2, wherein the flow channel structure is longer than a second distance which is a distance in a direction perpendicular to the bottom of the one analysis flow channel.   The flow path structure according to claim 3, wherein the first distance is 1.5 times or more of the second distance.   In the cross section perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction of the gas storage section, the third distance, which is the distance in the horizontal direction with respect to the bottom of the gas storage section, is the cross section perpendicular to the liquid feeding direction of the one analysis channel. The flow path structure according to claim 2, wherein the flow path structure is longer than a fourth distance that is a distance in a horizontal direction with respect to a bottom portion of the one analysis flow path.   The flow path structure according to claim 1, wherein the force relaxation mechanism is an air passage that is open to the atmosphere. A liquid introduction part for introducing the liquid into the plurality of flow paths for analysis;
The flow path structure according to claim 6, wherein the liquid introduction part functions as the force relaxation mechanism.   The flow path structure according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the force relaxation mechanism is connected to all of the plurality of analysis flow paths.   9. The flow channel structure according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of analysis flow channels has a structure that generates a capillary force as power for feeding the liquid.   The flow path structure according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the force fluctuation mechanism is an absorber that absorbs the liquid.   The flow path according to claim 10, wherein a reagent that changes the characteristics of the liquid by reacting with the component to be analyzed in the absorbed liquid is fixed to the absorber. Construction.   The flow path structure according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a filter that does not allow at least a specific component other than the component to be analyzed contained in the liquid to pass therethrough. A plurality of flow paths for analysis that enable analysis of the liquid and analysis of components contained in the liquid by introducing the liquid;
Among the plurality of analysis channels, when the force applied to the liquid in at least one analysis channel changes, the changed force is different from the one analysis channel. A force relaxation mechanism for relaxing propagation to the liquid in the analysis flow path,
A flow path structure, wherein a force variation mechanism for varying the force applied to the liquid is connected to the one analysis flow path.   14. The channel structure according to claim 13, wherein the force fluctuation mechanism is an aspirator that sucks a liquid flowing in the one analysis channel.   A flow channel chip comprising the flow channel structure according to claim 1. An analyzer comprising the flow channel chip according to claim 15, wherein the liquid is analyzed and components contained in the liquid are analyzed.

Images