JP2017096146A - Liquid transfer device and liquid transfer system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a liquid transfer device capable of: transferring liquid with a small variation in a transfer volume and little shear force applied to the liquid; securing a bioclean environment; being supplied at a low cost; and stabilizing a flow rate.SOLUTION: When capacity of a first liquid chamber 10A is increased with a first introduction flow passage 23 opened and a first lead-out flow passage 33 closed, liquid L is transferred to the first liquid chamber 10A through a liquid supply port 21 and the first introduction flow passage 23. When the capacity of the first liquid chamber 10A is decreased with the first introduction flow passage 23 closed and the first lead-out flow passage 33 opened, the liquid L is transferred to a liquid discharge port 31 through the first lead-out flow passage 33. When the capacity of a second liquid chamber 10B is increased with a second introduction flow passage 24 opened and a second lead-out flow passage 34 closed, the liquid L is transferred to the second liquid chamber 10B through the liquid supply port 21 and the second introduction flow passage 24. When the capacity of the second liquid chamber 10B is decreased with the second introduction flow passage 24 closed and the second lead-out flow passage 34 opened, the liquid L is transferred to the liquid discharge port 31 through the second lead-out flow passage 34.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a liquid transfer apparatus and a liquid transfer system.

  As an apparatus for transferring the liquid, there is a diaphragm pump (for example, see Patent Documents 1 and 2).

Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 6-63878 Japanese Patent Publication No. 7-62475

Since the devices described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 use a diaphragm structure, shear stress is easily applied to the liquid. Therefore, for example, it has been difficult to apply in the biotechnology field dealing with cell culture fluids.
Since the apparatus has a complicated and large structure, it is not easy to sterilize and it is difficult to maintain an aseptic environment. The device is also expensive. Further, pulsation is likely to occur in the liquid feeding amount, and the flow rate stability may be lowered.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a liquid transfer device and a liquid transfer system that have a low shear stress applied to a liquid, can secure an aseptic environment, are inexpensive, and can stabilize a flow rate. It is an issue to provide.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention includes a plurality of liquid chambers formed of a flexible material, the volume of which can be increased / decreased, a liquid supply channel that guides liquid introduced from a liquid supply port to the liquid chamber, A liquid discharge passage for guiding the liquid in the liquid chamber to a liquid discharge port, and the liquid supply flow path includes a first introduction flow path connected to a first liquid chamber among the plurality of liquid chambers, A second introduction channel connected to the second liquid chamber among the plurality of liquid chambers, wherein the liquid discharge channel is a first outlet channel connected to the first liquid chamber; A second outlet flow channel connected to the liquid chamber, and the first liquid chamber increases in volume when the first inlet channel is open and the first outlet channel is closed. Due to the reduced pressure accompanying the increase, the liquid is transferred from the liquid supply port through the first introduction passage into the first liquid chamber, and the first introduction passage is closed. When the volume decreases when the first outlet channel is open, the liquid in the first liquid chamber is transferred to the liquid outlet through the first outlet channel due to the pressure increase accompanying the decrease in the volume. The second liquid chamber is configured such that when the volume is increased when the second introduction flow path is open and the second discharge flow path is closed, the liquid is supplied to the liquid supply port due to pressure reduction accompanying the increase in volume. If the volume decreases when the second introduction channel is closed and the second outlet channel is open, the volume increases as the volume decreases. A liquid transfer device configured to transfer the liquid in the second liquid chamber to the liquid discharge port through the second outlet channel by pressure.
The liquid chamber is preferably formed in the non-sealed portion of a laminated structure in which two films are bonded together leaving a non-sealed portion.
The first introduction flow path and the second introduction flow path are connected to a supply-side common flow path having the liquid supply port, and the first discharge flow path and the second discharge flow path are the liquid discharge flow path. It is preferable to be connected to a discharge side common flow path having an outlet.
The first liquid chamber and the second liquid chamber preferably change in volume according to an external pressure.
The liquid supply channel and the liquid discharge channel are preferably formed in the non-seal portion of the stacked structure.
The liquid supply channel and the liquid discharge channel may be configured by a flexible tube.
The liquid chamber, the liquid supply channel, and the liquid discharge channel are preferably sterilized.

  The present invention includes the liquid transfer device, the first introduction flow path, the second introduction flow path, the first discharge flow path, and the pressing section that closes the second discharge flow path so as to be openable and closable, Provided is a liquid transfer system having a volume adjusting unit for adjusting the volume of each of the first and second liquid chambers.

According to the present invention, the liquid can be transferred by increasing or decreasing the volume of the liquid chamber formed by the flexible material. In the present invention, the shearing force applied to the liquid can be suppressed as compared with an apparatus using an operating member such as a diaphragm. Therefore, the present invention can be suitably applied to the biotechnology field that handles cell culture fluids.
Since the structure of the present invention is simple, sterilization is easy and it is easy to ensure an aseptic environment. Moreover, since it is easy to manufacture, it can be provided at a low cost. Furthermore, since the fluctuation (pulsation) of the liquid feeding amount is reduced, the liquid flow rate can be stabilized.

(A) It is a top view which shows 1st Embodiment of the liquid transfer apparatus of this invention. (B) It is a figure which shows the II cross section of (A). (C) It is a figure which shows the II-II cross section of (A). It is the schematic which shows operation | movement of the liquid transfer apparatus shown in FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows operation | movement of the external pressure adjustment mechanism which can be used for the liquid transfer apparatus shown in FIG. It is a top view which shows 2nd Embodiment of the liquid transfer apparatus of this invention. It is the schematic which shows operation | movement of the liquid transfer apparatus shown in FIG. It is a top view which shows the other example of a liquid transfer apparatus.

Hereinafter, based on a preferred embodiment, the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[Liquid transfer device (first embodiment)]
FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a liquid transfer apparatus 1 which is a first embodiment of the liquid transfer apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 1A is a plan view showing the entire liquid transfer apparatus 1. FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II in FIG. FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II-II in FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C, the liquid transfer device 1 includes a laminated structure 4 in which two flexible films 2 and 2 (flexible materials) are laminated.
The films 2 and 2 are not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a single layer film made of a thermoplastic resin such as polyolefin, thermoplastic elastomer, polyamide, polyester, and polystyrene, and a laminate (laminated film) thereof.

As a laminated film, the structure which laminated | stacked the base material and the sealant layer can be mentioned, for example. The laminated film may be composed of a base material and a sealant layer, or may be composed of one or more other intermediate layers.
Examples of the material of the base material include thermoplastic resins such as polyolefin, thermoplastic elastomer, polyamide, polyester, and polystyrene. In particular, polyolefins and thermoplastic elastomers that are excellent in flexibility are suitable.

  The material of the sealant layer is preferably a thermoplastic resin such as polyolefin, and examples thereof include polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). The sealant layer is formed so as to be one outermost surface of the film 2. The films 2 and 2 are used with the sealant layer facing inward.

The intermediate layer is, for example, a gas barrier layer, a reinforcing layer, a light shielding layer, a printing layer, or the like, and the number and order of lamination are not particularly limited.
The gas barrier layer has a function of imparting gas barrier properties to block gas such as oxygen and water vapor from passing through the laminated film. Examples of the gas barrier layer include a layer made of a gas barrier resin such as ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) and vinylidene chloride; a metal foil; a vapor deposition layer such as aluminum and an inorganic oxide.
The reinforcing layer has a function of increasing the strength of the laminated film. As the material of the reinforcing layer, polyolefin resin such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE), biaxially stretched polyethylene terephthalate (O-PET), biaxially stretched nylon (O-Ny), biaxially stretched polypropylene (OPP) Etc.
The base material or other intermediate layer and the sealant layer may be laminated via an adhesive layer or the like, or may be laminated directly. The film 2 may be transparent or opaque.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the films 2 and 2 have, for example, a rectangular shape (for example, a rectangular shape) in a plan view, and the non-sealed portion 3 (the liquid chamber 10, the liquid supply flow path 20, and the liquid discharge flow path 30). It is pasted except. A heat seal (heat seal), an ultrasonic seal, a high frequency seal, etc. can be used for bonding the films 2 and 2 together.
One of the two edges of the laminated structure 4 facing each other is referred to as a first edge 4a, and the other is referred to as a second edge 4b. The first edge 4a and the second edge 4b correspond to long sides. Hereinafter, the direction along the long side of the rectangular laminated structure 4 is referred to as the X direction, and the direction along the short side of the laminated structure 4 is referred to as the Y direction.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the liquid transfer device 1 includes liquid chambers 10, 10, a liquid supply channel 20, and a liquid discharge channel 30.
The liquid chamber 10 is a space formed by the non-seal portion 3 where the two films 2 and 2 are not bonded, and the entire inner surface of the liquid chamber 10 is the inner surface of the films 2 and 2 (FIG. 1B). reference).
The liquid chamber 10 can be substantially circular in plan view, for example. The two liquid chambers 10 are formed so as to be separated from each other in the X direction. The shape of the liquid chamber in plan view is not particularly limited, and may be a polygon such as a rectangle or a triangle, or an ellipse or an indefinite shape.
One of the liquid chambers 10, 10 is referred to as a first liquid chamber 10A, and the other is referred to as a second liquid chamber 10B.

  The liquid chamber 10 may be formed using the films 2 and 2 having no unevenness, or is formed using the films 2 and 2 in which a portion corresponding to the liquid chamber 10 is formed in a concave shape (deep drawing shape). May be.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the liquid chamber 10 is formed by two flexible films 2 and 2. Therefore, the volume of the liquid chamber 10 can be increased or decreased by displacing the films 2 and 2 in a direction in which the films 2 and 2 approach and separate from each other. If the films 2 and 2 are displaced in directions away from each other, the volumes of the liquid chambers 10 and 10 are increased, and if the films 2 and 2 are displaced in directions toward each other, the volume of the liquid chamber 10 is reduced.
The volume of the liquid chamber 10 is preferably changed according to the external pressure.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the liquid supply flow path 20 includes a supply-side common flow path 22 having a liquid supply port 21, and an introduction flow path 23 branched at a tip 22b of the supply-side common flow path 22. 24.
The supply-side common flow path 22 and the introduction flow paths 23 and 24 are formed by the non-seal portion 3.

  The supply-side common flow path 22 extends from the base end 22a located at the first edge 4a in the direction approaching the second edge 4b along the Y direction. A liquid supply port 21 is formed at the base end 22a.

The first introduction flow path 23, which is one of the two introduction flow paths 23, 24, increases from the tip 22 b of the supply-side common flow path 22 toward the one in the X direction (leftward in FIG. 1A). The two sides 4b are inclined and extended so as to be connected to the first liquid chamber 10A at the extended end (tip 23a).
The second introduction flow path 24, which is the other of the two introduction flow paths 23 and 24, increases from the tip 22b of the supply-side common flow path 22 toward the other in the X direction (rightward in FIG. 1A). It extends so as to approach the two side edges 4b, and is connected to the second liquid chamber 10B at the extended end (tip 24a).

The liquid discharge channel 30 includes outlet channels 33 and 34 connected to the liquid chambers 10A and 10B, respectively, and a discharge-side common channel 32.
The outlet channels 33 and 34 and the discharge-side common channel 32 are formed by the non-seal portion 3.

The first outlet channel 33, which is one of the two outlet channels 33, 34, extends from the base end 33a connected to the first liquid chamber 10A to the other side in the X direction (right side in FIG. 1A). It extends so as to approach the second edge 4 b as it goes, and is connected to the base end 32 a of the discharge-side common flow path 32.
The second lead-out flow path 34, which is the other of the two lead-out flow paths 33, 34, extends from the base end 34a connected to the second liquid chamber 10B to one in the X direction (left side in FIG. 1A). It extends so as to approach the second edge 4 b as it goes, and is connected to the base end 32 a of the discharge-side common flow path 32.

  The discharge-side common flow channel 32 extends from the proximal end 32a to which the outlet flow channels 33 and 34 are joined and connected in the direction approaching the second edge 4b along the Y direction, and the extended end (tip 32b). Is located at the second edge 4b. The discharge side common flow path 32 has a liquid discharge port 31 at the tip 32b.

  The liquid transfer apparatus 1 is preferably sterilized before use. The sterilization means can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, and examples thereof include radiation such as γ rays, heating with water vapor and the like, and gas such as ethylene oxide.

  The liquid transfer apparatus 1 can be disposable (disposable, single use). By using the liquid transfer apparatus 1 supplied in a sterile state, the liquid L can be maintained in a sterile state.

  The liquid transfer device 1 can be a liquid supply device by connecting a liquid supply source 40 to the liquid supply port 21. The liquid supply source 40 is, for example, a container that can store a liquid.

[Liquid transfer system]
As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the liquid transfer device 1, the first pressing portion 51 that closes the first introduction channel 23 so as to be opened and closed, and the second introduction channel 24 can be opened and closed. A second pressing portion 52 for closing the first outlet passage 33, a third pressing portion 53 for closing the first outlet passage 33 so as to be opened and closed, a fourth pressing portion 54 for closing the second outlet passage 34 so as to be opened and closed, and a liquid chamber. The volume adjustment units 61 and 62 that adjust the volumes of 10 and 10 constitute a liquid transfer system 70.

The first pressing portion 51 can press the first introduction channel 23 against the receiving surface 55 (installation surface) using a drive unit (not shown) such as a motor, and the film 2 of the first introduction channel 23. , 2 can be switched between a closed state in which the flow of the liquid L is stopped by bringing the two into close contact with each other and an open state in which the liquid L can be freely circulated by releasing the pressure.
The second pressing portion 52 can press the second introduction channel 24 against the receiving surface 55 (installation surface) using a driving unit (not shown) such as a motor, and the film 2 of the second introduction channel 24. , 2 can be switched between a closed state in which the flow of the liquid L is stopped by bringing the two into close contact with each other and an open state in which the liquid L can be freely circulated by releasing the pressure.
The third pressing portion 53 can press the first lead-out flow path 33 against the receiving surface 55 (installation surface) using a drive unit (not shown) such as a motor, and the film 2 of the first lead-out flow path 33. , 2 can be switched between a closed state in which the flow of the liquid L is stopped by bringing the two into close contact with each other and an open state in which the liquid L can be freely circulated by releasing the pressure.
The fourth pressing portion 54 can press the second lead-out flow path 34 against the receiving surface 55 (installation surface) using a drive unit (not shown) such as a motor, and the film 2 of the second lead-out flow path 34. , 2 can be switched between a closed state in which the flow of the liquid L is stopped by bringing the two into close contact with each other and an open state in which the liquid L can be freely circulated by releasing the pressure.
The first to fourth pressing parts 51 to 54 can be operated independently of each other. Therefore, any of the introduction channels 23 and 24 and the outlet channels 33 and 34 can be selectively opened and closed. The pressing portions 51 to 54 are opening / closing mechanisms that open and close the flow paths 23, 24, 33, and 34, respectively.

The first volume adjusting unit 61 can reduce the volume of the first liquid chamber 10A by increasing the pressure applied from the outside to the first liquid chamber 10A, and the first liquid chamber 10A. By reducing the applied pressure, the volume of the first liquid chamber 10A can be increased.
The second volume adjusting unit 62 can reduce the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B by increasing the pressure applied from the outside to the second liquid chamber 10B, and can also reduce the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B. By reducing the applied pressure, the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B can be increased.
The first volume adjusting unit 61 and the second volume adjusting unit 62 can be operated independently of each other.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating an example of the first volume adjustment unit 61. The first volume adjusting unit 61 includes a housing 63 that houses the first liquid chamber 10 </ b> A, and a pair of movable bodies 64 and 64 provided in the housing 63.
The movable bodies 64 and 64 are formed in a flat plate shape and can move up and down while being parallel to each other. A first liquid chamber 10A is provided in the space between the movable bodies 64, 64 (inner space 65).

As shown in FIG. 3A, when the movable bodies 64 and 64 are close to each other and the films 2 and 2 in the first liquid chamber 10A are close to each other, the volume of the first liquid chamber 10A becomes small.
As shown in FIG. 3B, when the gas (for example, air) in the housing 63 is exhausted through the vent holes 63a and 63a using the pump 66 (66A), the inside of the housing 63 is decompressed. As a result, the volume of the first liquid chamber 10A increases due to the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the first liquid chamber 10A, and the inside thereof is decompressed. At this time, the movable bodies 64 and 64 are displaced in directions away from each other.

When gas (for example, air) is introduced into the casing 63 through the vent holes 63a and 63a using the pump 66 (66A), the pressure in the casing 63 is increased. Thus, the volume of the first liquid chamber 10A is reduced by the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the first liquid chamber 10A, and the inside thereof is increased in pressure. At this time, the movable bodies 64 and 64 are displaced in a direction approaching each other.
Since the liquid transfer device 1 is composed of the flexible films 2 and 2, the shape and volume of the liquid chamber 10 and the flow paths 20 and 30 can be changed according to the pressure of the liquid L and the like. Therefore, when the volume of the liquid chamber 10 is reduced, a sudden pressure increase of the liquid L inside the liquid chamber 10 and the flow paths 20 and 30 is suppressed, and the shearing force applied to the liquid L is reduced.

The second volume adjustment unit 62 can have the same configuration as the first volume adjustment unit 61. When the inside of the housing 63 is depressurized using the pump 66 (66B), the second volume adjusting unit 62 increases the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B and depressurizes the inside. When the pressure inside the casing 63 is increased using the pump 66 (66B), the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B decreases and the inside is increased.
The pump 66 (66A) of the first volume adjusting unit 61 and the pump 66 (66B) of the second volume adjusting unit 62 can be driven independently of each other.

  The structure of the volume adjusting unit is not limited to the structure shown in FIG. 3 as long as the volumes of the first liquid chamber 10A and the second liquid chamber 10B can be adjusted. For example, the volume of the liquid chamber 10 can be increased or decreased by displacing the films 2 and 2 in directions toward and away from each other using movable bodies respectively joined to the films 2 and 2 in the liquid chamber 10.

[Liquid transfer method]
Next, a method for transferring a liquid using the liquid transfer apparatus 1 will be described.
The liquid L to be transferred is not particularly limited, but may be water, oil, solution, solvent, dispersion, emulsion, suspension, or the like. The liquid L may contain powder, cells, solid medium, beads and the like. The liquid L is, for example, a liquid medium or a cell culture solution.

(First operation)
The first operation is an operation of increasing the volume of the first liquid chamber 10A and decreasing the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B. Hereinafter, the first operation will be described in detail.
As shown in FIG. 2 (A), the first introduction flow path 23 is opened, and the first outlet flow path 33 is closed by the third pressing portion 53, so that the first volume adjustment section 61 is used for the first. The volume of the liquid chamber 10A is increased. The liquid L is transferred from the liquid supply port 21 through the first introduction flow path 23 into the first liquid chamber 10A due to the pressure reduction accompanying the increase in the volume of the first liquid chamber 10A.
At this time, the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B is reduced using the second volume adjusting unit 62 in a state where the second introduction flow path 24 is closed by the second pressing part 52 and the second discharge flow path 34 is opened. Let The liquid L in the second liquid chamber 10B is transferred to the liquid outlet 31 through the second outlet channel 34 and discharged from the liquid outlet 31 due to the pressure increase accompanying the volume reduction of the second liquid chamber 10B.

(Second operation)
The second operation is an operation for decreasing the volume of the first liquid chamber 10A and increasing the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B. Hereinafter, the second operation will be described in detail.
As shown in FIG. 2 (B), the first introduction flow path 23 is closed by the first pressing part 51 and the first discharge flow path 33 is opened. The volume of the liquid chamber 10A is decreased. The liquid L in the first liquid chamber 10A is transferred to the liquid discharge port 31 through the first outlet channel 33 and discharged from the liquid discharge port 31 due to the pressure increase accompanying the decrease in the volume of the first liquid chamber 10A.
At this time, the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B is increased by using the second volume adjustment unit 62 in a state where the second introduction flow path 24 is opened and the second outlet flow path 34 is closed by the fourth pressing portion 54. Let The liquid L is transferred from the liquid supply port 21 into the second liquid chamber 10B through the second introduction flow path 24 by the pressure reduction accompanying the increase in the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B.

  By alternately repeating the first operation and the second operation, the liquid L can be transferred from the liquid supply port 21 toward the liquid discharge port 31.

In the liquid transfer apparatus 1, the liquid L can be transferred by increasing or decreasing the volume of the liquid chambers 10A and 10B formed by the films 2 and 2. In the liquid transfer apparatus 1, the shear force applied to the liquid L can be suppressed as compared with an apparatus using an operation member such as a diaphragm. Therefore, the liquid transfer apparatus 1 can be suitably applied also to the biotechnology field that handles cell culture solutions and the like.
Since the liquid transfer device 1 has a simple structure composed of two films 2 and 2, it can be miniaturized. Therefore, sterilization is easy and it is easy to ensure an aseptic environment. In addition, since the structure is simple, the manufacturing is easy and it can be provided at a low cost.
Since the liquid transfer device 1 can take in the liquid L from the liquid supply port 21 and discharge it from the liquid discharge port 31 in both the first operation and the second operation, fluctuation (pulsation) of the liquid supply amount is reduced. Therefore, the flow rate of the liquid L can be stabilized.

[Liquid transfer device (second embodiment)]
FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a liquid transfer device 81 which is a second embodiment of the liquid transfer device of the present invention. In addition, about the same structure as the liquid transfer apparatus 1 of 1st Embodiment, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.
The liquid transfer device 81 includes two laminated structures 84 and 84 (84A and 84B) made of films 82 and 82 (flexible material) having the liquid chamber 10, a liquid supply channel 90, and a liquid discharge channel 100. And have.

The films 82 and 82 may have the same configuration as the films 2 and 2 used in the liquid transfer device 1. The liquid chamber 10 (10A, 10B) is formed by a non-seal portion 83 to which the films 82, 82 are not bonded.
The two laminated structures 84 and 84 (84A and 84B) are separate from each other. The first liquid chamber 10A is formed in one laminated structure 84 (84A), and the second liquid chamber 10B is formed in the other laminated structure 84 (84B).

The liquid supply channel 90 includes a supply-side common channel 92 having a liquid supply port 91 at a base end 92a (one end), and a connection member 95 (connection joint) at a distal end 92b (the other end) of the supply-side common channel 92. And introduction flow paths 93 and 94 that are branched and connected to each other.
As the supply side common flow path 92 and the introduction flow paths 93 and 94, for example, flexible tubes (tubes) can be used. The tube is preferably elastically deformable. As the material of the tube, a material excellent in chemical resistance, weather resistance and the like such as silicone resin and thermoplastic elastomer is preferable.

The first introduction flow path 93 that is one of the two introduction flow paths 93 and 94 extends from the base end 93a (one end) connected to the connection member 95, and at the extension end (the front end 93b, the other end), It is connected to the first liquid chamber 10A of the laminated structure 84A via the connection tool 96A.
The second introduction channel 94, which is the other of the two introduction channels 93, 94, extends from the base end 94a (one end) connected to the connection member 95, and at the extension end (the tip 94b, the other end), It is connected to the second liquid chamber 10B of the laminated structure 84B via the connection tool 96B.

The liquid discharge channel 100 includes lead-out channels 103 and 104 connected to the liquid chambers 10A and 10B of the stacked structures 84A and 84B via the connectors 106A and 106B, respectively, and a discharge-side common channel 102. .
As the outlet channels 103 and 104 and the discharge side common channel 102, for example, a flexible tube (tube) can be used. The tube is preferably elastically deformable. The tube material is preferably an elastic material excellent in chemical resistance, weather resistance, etc., such as a silicone resin and a thermoplastic elastomer.

The first outlet channel 103 extends from a base end 103a (one end) connected to a connector 106A provided in the laminated structure 84A, and a connecting member 105 (connecting joint) at the extended end (tip 103b, the other end). ) To the base end 102a (one end) of the discharge side common flow path 102.
The second lead-out flow path 104 extends from the base end 104a (one end) connected to the connection tool 106B provided in the laminated structure 84B, and the extension end (tip 104b, the other end) via the connection member 105. It is connected to the base end 102 a of the discharge side common flow path 102.
The discharge side common flow channel 102 has a liquid discharge port 101 at the tip 102b (the other end).

  The liquid transfer device 81 and the liquid supply source 40 connected to the liquid supply port 91 constitute a liquid supply device.

[Liquid transfer system]
As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, first to fourth pressing parts 51 to 54 and volume adjusting parts 61 and 62 can be applied to the liquid transfer device 81. The liquid transfer device 81, the first to fourth pressing parts 51 to 54, and the volume adjusting parts 61 and 62 constitute the liquid transfer system 110.
The first to fourth pressing portions 51 to 54 use a drive unit (not shown) such as a motor, respectively, to provide a first introduction channel 93, a second introduction channel 94, a first outlet channel 103, and a second outlet. The flow path 104 can be pressed against the receiving surface 55 (installation surface). The 1st-4th press parts 51-54 switch between the closed state which crushes each flow path, and stops the flow of the liquid L, and the open state which cancels | releases a press and enables the free distribution | circulation of the liquid L it can.
In FIGS. 5A and 5B, the liquid supply channel 90 and the liquid discharge channel 100 are schematically shown.

[Liquid transfer method]
Next, a method for transferring a liquid using the liquid transfer device 81 will be described.
(First operation)
As shown in FIG. 5 (A), the first introduction flow path 93 is opened, and the first outlet flow path 103 is closed by the third pressing portion 53, so that the first volume adjustment section 61 is used for the first. The volume of the liquid chamber 10A is increased. The liquid L is transferred from the liquid supply port 91 through the first introduction flow path 93 into the first liquid chamber 10A due to the pressure reduction accompanying the increase in the volume of the first liquid chamber 10A.
At this time, the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B is reduced by using the second volume adjusting unit 62 in a state where the second introduction channel 94 is closed by the second pressing unit 52 and the second outlet channel 104 is opened. Let The liquid L in the second liquid chamber 10B is transferred to the liquid discharge port 101 through the second outlet channel 104 and discharged from the liquid discharge port 101 due to the pressure increase accompanying the volume reduction of the second liquid chamber 10B.

(Second operation)
As shown in FIG. 5B, the volume of the first liquid chamber 10A is reduced in a state where the first introduction channel 93 is closed by the first pressing portion 51 and the first outlet channel 103 is opened. The liquid L in the first liquid chamber 10A is transferred to the liquid discharge port 101 through the first outlet flow channel 103 and discharged from the liquid discharge port 101 due to the pressure increase accompanying the volume reduction of the first liquid chamber 10A.
At this time, the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B is increased in a state where the second introduction channel 94 is opened and the second outlet channel 104 is closed by the fourth pressing portion 54. The liquid L is transferred from the liquid supply port 91 through the second introduction flow path 94 into the second liquid chamber 10B due to the pressure reduction accompanying the increase in the volume of the second liquid chamber 10B.

  By alternately repeating the first operation and the second operation, the liquid L can be transferred from the liquid supply port 91 toward the liquid discharge port 101.

In the liquid transfer device 81, the liquid L can be transferred by increasing or decreasing the volume of the liquid chambers 10A and 10B formed by the films 2 and 2. In the liquid transfer device 81, a shearing force applied to the liquid L can be suppressed as compared with a device using an operation member such as a diaphragm. Therefore, the liquid transfer device 81 can be suitably applied also to the biotechnology field that handles cell culture solutions and the like.
Moreover, since the liquid transfer device 81 has a simple structure, it is easy to sterilize, and it is easy to ensure an aseptic environment. Since the structure is simple, manufacturing is easy and it can be provided at low cost.
Since the liquid transfer device 81 can take in the liquid L from the liquid supply port 91 and discharge it from the liquid discharge port 101 in both the first operation and the second operation, fluctuation (pulsation) of the liquid supply amount is reduced. Therefore, the flow rate of the liquid L can be stabilized.
Since the liquid transfer device 81 uses tubes for the liquid supply channel 90 and the liquid discharge channel 100, the liquid transfer device 81 has high mechanical strength and is excellent in terms of durability. Therefore, even if it repeats the press by the press parts 51-54 and its cancellation | release, it is hard to be damaged. Moreover, the amount of liquid feeding can be further stabilized by using a tube.

  For comparison, as shown in FIG. 6, a liquid transfer device including a laminated structure 124 having only one liquid chamber 10, an introduction flow path 94, and a discharge flow path 104 is assumed. In this liquid transfer device, the liquid L in the liquid chamber 10 can be discharged through the outlet channel 104 in the first operation for decreasing the volume of the liquid chamber 10, but in the second operation for increasing the volume of the liquid chamber 10. Since the liquid L is not discharged, fluctuation (pulsation) of the liquid feeding amount increases.

As mentioned above, although this invention has been demonstrated based on suitable embodiment, this invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, A various change is possible in the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention.
In the liquid transfer devices 1 and 81, the number of the liquid chambers 10 is two, but the number of the liquid chambers 10 may be an arbitrary number of three or more.
For example, two liquid transfer apparatuses 1 shown in FIG. 1 are arranged in parallel, and one common discharge side flow path is provided further on the discharge side of the two discharge side common flow paths 32, and two supply side common flow paths 22 are provided. Further, a structure in which one common supply-side flow path is provided on the supply side can be exemplified. The liquid transfer device having this structure has four liquid chambers.

The liquid transfer device may include three liquid chambers, a first to a third liquid chamber, and may include a liquid supply channel and a liquid discharge channel. The liquid supply flow path includes, for example, a first introduction flow path connected to the first liquid chamber, a second introduction flow path connected to the second liquid chamber, and a third introduction flow connected to the third liquid chamber. Road. The liquid discharge flow path includes, for example, a first discharge flow path connected to the first liquid chamber, a second discharge flow path connected to the second liquid chamber, and a third discharge flow connected to the third liquid chamber. Road.
In this liquid transfer device, for example, in the first operation, the liquid is sucked from the first introduction flow path into the first liquid chamber, and the liquid in the second liquid chamber is sent to the liquid discharge port through the second outlet flow path. In the third operation, the liquid is sucked into the second liquid chamber from the second introduction flow path, and the liquid in the third liquid chamber is sent to the liquid discharge port through the third discharge flow path. While sucking into the liquid chamber, the liquid in the first liquid chamber can be sent to the liquid outlet through the first outlet channel.

In the liquid transfer apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1, the liquid supply channel 20 includes a supply-side common channel 22 and introduction channels 23 and 24, but the liquid supply channel includes only first and second introduction channels. May be. In the liquid transfer apparatus 1, the liquid discharge channel 30 includes the discharge-side common channel 32 and the outlet channels 33 and 34. The liquid outlet channel includes only the first and second outlet channels. May be.
The liquid transfer apparatus of the present invention can be suitably used for biotechnology-related apparatuses such as culture apparatuses and column chromatography apparatuses.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,81 ... Liquid transfer apparatus, 2,82 ... Film (flexible material), 3 ... Non-seal part, 4, 84, 84A, 84B ... Laminated structure 10, 10A, 10B ... Liquid chamber, 10A ... No. 1 liquid chamber, 10B ... 2nd liquid chamber, 20, 90 ... liquid supply flow path, 21, 91 ... liquid supply port, 22, 92 ... supply side common flow path, 23, 93 ... first introduction flow path, 24, 94, second introduction flow path, 30, 100, liquid discharge flow path, 31, 101, liquid discharge port, 32, 102, discharge side common flow path, 33, 103, first discharge flow path, 34, 104, first. 2 outlet channels.

Claims (8)

A plurality of liquid chambers formed of a flexible material, the volume of which can be increased or decreased;
A liquid supply channel for guiding the liquid introduced from the liquid supply port to the liquid chamber;
A liquid discharge passage for guiding the liquid in the liquid chamber to a liquid discharge port,
The liquid supply flow path includes a first introduction flow path connected to a first liquid chamber among the plurality of liquid chambers, and a second introduction flow path connected to a second liquid chamber among the plurality of liquid chambers. Have
The liquid discharge channel has a first outlet channel connected to the first liquid chamber and a second outlet channel connected to the second liquid chamber,
When the volume of the first liquid chamber increases when the first introduction flow path is open and the first discharge flow path is closed, the liquid is supplied from the liquid supply port by the pressure reduction due to the volume increase. If the volume is reduced when the first introduction passage is closed and the first outlet passage is open when the first introduction passage is closed and the first discharge passage is opened through the introduction passage, the first pressure is increased due to the volume reduction. The liquid in one liquid chamber is configured to be transferred to the liquid outlet through the first outlet channel,
When the volume of the second liquid chamber increases when the second introduction flow path is open and the second discharge flow path is closed, the liquid is supplied from the liquid supply port to the second liquid due to pressure reduction accompanying the increase in volume. When the volume is reduced when the second introduction passage is closed and the second lead-out passage is open when the second introduction passage is closed and the second discharge passage is opened, the second liquid passage is passed through the introduction passage. A liquid transfer device configured to transfer the liquid in a two-liquid chamber to the liquid discharge port through the second outlet channel.   The liquid transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the liquid chamber is formed in the non-sealed portion of a laminated structure in which two films are bonded to each other leaving a non-sealed portion. The first introduction channel and the second introduction channel are connected to a supply side common channel having the liquid supply port,
3. The liquid transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the first lead-out flow path and the second lead-out flow path are connected to a discharge-side common flow path having the liquid discharge port.   The liquid transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first liquid chamber and the second liquid chamber change in volume according to an external pressure.   The liquid transfer device according to claim 2, wherein the liquid supply channel and the liquid discharge channel are formed in the non-sealed portion of the stacked structure.   5. The liquid transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the liquid supply flow path and the liquid discharge flow path are formed of flexible tubes.   The liquid transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the liquid chamber, the liquid supply channel, and the liquid discharge channel are sterilized.   The liquid transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and the first introduction channel, the second introduction channel, the first outlet channel, and the second outlet channel can be opened and closed, respectively. A liquid transfer system comprising: a pressing portion that closes to a first portion; and a volume adjusting portion that adjusts the volumes of the first and second liquid chambers.

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