JPS63184035A - Particle isolating and distributing device and system - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To accurately detect the number of fine particles in an isolating and distributing liquid to distribute said particles, by providing a washing solution inflow passage to the upstream or downstream passage of a particle isolating and distributing device. CONSTITUTION:A washing solution inflow pipe 7 is connected to either one of the upstream passage 2 and downstream passage 3 holding the narrow orifice part 1 therebetween of a particle isolating and distributing device 13A. Therefore, by allowing an isolating and distribution solution to pass through the upstream passage 2, the narrow orifice part 1 and the downstream passage 3 and subsequently sending a predetermined amount of the washing solution into the flow passages from the washing solution inflow pipe 7, the residual fine particles in the flow passages can be washed off and, therefore, the number of fine particles in the isolating and distributing liquid can be accurately detected and said particles can be distributed.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION This invention provides an element for separating fine particles in a solution, particularly cells, one by one, or counting and dispensing a certain number of particles, that is, a particle isolating and dispensing device, and a particle isolating and dispensing device. This invention relates to a particle isolation and dispensing system using a device.

<Technical Background of the Invention> A particle isolation/dispensing device having the configuration shown in FIG. 10 has been known as a device for separating fine particles, especially cells, one by one in a solution and counting a certain number of them. There is. The particle isolation/dispensing device 13 shown in FIG. 10 has channels 2 and 3 connected to the upstream and downstream sides, respectively, across a constricted hole 1 through which fine particles in a solution are individually separated and passed. Electrodes 4 and 5 are arranged in channels 2 and 3, respectively, and fine particles 6
When the solution 30 containing
Can you detect the impedance change between electrodes 4 and 5? Therefore, by counting the number of changes, the number of fine particles can be counted.

That is, when a constant current is applied to the electrodes 4 and 5, the voltage is monitored by a sensor, and when a constant voltage is applied, the current is monitored. Since the impedance between the electrodes 4 and 5 depends on the conditions inside and near the constriction hole 1,
Every time a fine particle passes through the constricted hole, an impedance change occurs, which can be detected as a pulse, and the number of particles passing through the constricted hole can be detected from the number of pulses.

After detecting the number of e-fine particles using the particle isolation/dispensing device 13 as described above, when dispensing the particles detected during the night, the flow path 3
A dispensing container is placed in advance under the container, and a fixed number of particles are dispensed so as to flow into the container. Subsequently, when dispensing the fine particles in the solution, the dispensing container was moved below the channel 3.

<Problem to be solved by the invention> However, when the above-mentioned particle isolating and dispensing device is used to continuously isolate and dispense fine particles in a solution, the isolation and dispensing occurs in the step before. When fine particles left behind in the flow path are continuously isolated and dispensed from the solution, they flow out during subsequent dispensing steps, resulting in a number different from the actual number of detected particles. There was a problem with particles being dispensed.

O In addition, if the concentration of fine particles contained in the solution is high, it is necessary to separate the fine particles by separating them one by one so that they can continuously pass through the narrow hole in the isolating and dispensing device. This makes it difficult to accurately match the number of generated pulses to the number of particles.

Of course, in the case of a solution with such a high concentration of fine particles, it is possible to dilute the solution and then re-detect and re-count, but this method requires a long time and is too labor intensive.

θ Furthermore, when using the particle isolation/dispensing device described above,
Since a constant current is passed between the electrodes 4 and 5 in the channels 2 and 3, electrolysis of water occurs, and hydrogen is generated and passes through the narrow hole 1 in the form of bubbles.

At this time, if the size of the bubbles is the same as the diameter of the fine particles, the bubbles will be mistaken for fine particles, resulting in a detection error.

This invention was made in order to eliminate the drawbacks of the conventional method of isolating and dispensing fine particles using a conventional particle isolating and dispensing device. The object of the present invention is to provide a particle isolation/dispensing device and a particle isolation/dispensing system that can accurately isolate and dispense fine particles even when they are isolated and dispensed.

In addition, this invention provides accurate and accurate results even for solutions with high particle concentration.
The present invention aims to provide a particle isolation/dispensing device and a particle isolation/dispensing system that can easily and quickly isolate and dispense fine particles.

Furthermore, the present invention provides a particle isolating and dispensing device that can accurately detect fine particles without being affected by hydrogen bubbles generated by electrolysis of effluent near a particle detection electrode placed in a flow path. The aim is to provide an isolation and dispensing system.

Means and operation for solving the above problems One of the particle isolation and dispensing devices of the present invention to achieve the above objects:
A constricted hole portion through which fine particles in a solution are individually separated and passed through, upper and downstream channels connected to the upper and downstream sides of this narrowed hole portion, respectively, and opposing channels disposed between the narrowed hole portion and the upper and downstream channels. a particle detection unit that detects passing fine particles with an electrode provided;
The present invention is characterized in that a cleaning liquid inflow path connected to the upstream path or the downstream path is provided.

Since the washing liquid inflow path is connected to the upstream path or the downstream path as described above, after the solution for isolation and dispensing passes through the upstream path, the narrow hole, and the downstream path, the cleaning liquid inflow path is connected to the washing liquid inflow path. By sending a predetermined cleaning liquid into the channel, residual fine particles in the channel can be washed away, so the number of fine particles in the isolated partial pressure liquid can be accurately detected and dispensed.

Further, one of the particle isolation and dispensing systems of the present invention includes a constricted hole portion through which fine particles to be isolated and dispensed are individually separated and passed through, and an upper portion connected to the upper and downstream sides of the constricted hole portion, respectively. ,
A downstream path, a particle detection unit that detects passing fine particles using electrodes disposed opposite to each other in the upper and downstream paths across the narrowed hole, and a cleaning liquid inflow path connected to the upstream path or the downstream path. A particle isolation/dispensing device is used, and its upstream path is connected to an isolation and dispensing solution source that delivers the solution for isolation and dispensing by opening and closing a valve, and the downstream path is connected to a source of isolated and dispensing solution that is sent out via a valve. In addition to having a solution discharge port, the cleaning liquid inflow path is connected to a cleaning liquid supply source through a valve so that the cleaning liquid can be sent out, and the particle detection section is equipped with a sensor that detects impedance changes between the electrodes. This is a characteristic feature.

Therefore, according to this particle isolation and dispensing system, the isolation and dispensing solution is passed through the upstream channel by opening and closing the valve on the upstream channel, separated and detected one by one by the narrow hole, and allowed to flow into the downstream channel. By operating the valve on the downstream side, the detected isolation and dispensing solution can be dispensed through the discharge port. In addition, by operating the valve on the side of the washing liquid inflow path and the valve on the downstream path, the washing liquid can be supplied into the upstream path or the downstream path to wash away fine particles remaining in the flow path. can be accurately detected and dispensed.

The second feature of the particle isolation/dispensing device of the present invention is a constricted hole portion through which the fine particles to be isolated and dispensed are individually separated and passed through, and an upper portion connected to the upper and downstream sides of the constricted hole portion, respectively. , a downstream path, and an upper downstream path from electrodes disposed opposite to each other so as to sandwich the narrow hole through a member having micropores that allow ions to pass through but do not allow particles of a size comparable to fine particles to pass through. The present invention is characterized in that it is provided with a particle detection section and a cleaning liquid inflow path connected to the upstream path or the downstream path.

When the particle isolation/dispensing device is configured as described above, the detected particles remaining in the flow path are removed by feeding the cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid inflow path into the upstream path, the narrow hole, and the downstream path after the solution has passed. It is possible to wash away fine particles, and allows ions to pass through, but does not allow particles of a size comparable to the fine particles to pass through.The micropores allow the passage of ions, which are generated in the electrodes when a constant current is passed between the electrodes when detecting fine particles. It is possible to prevent hydrogen bubbles caused by water electrolysis from entering the flow path and causing errors in detected values.

The second feature of the particle isolation and dispensing system of the present invention is a constricted hole portion through which fine particles in a solution are individually separated and passed through, and upper and downstream channels connected to the upper and downstream sides of this constricted hole portion, respectively. and particle detection consisting of electrodes disposed opposite each other in the downstream path so as to sandwich the narrow hole through a member having micropores that allow ions to pass through but do not allow particles of a size comparable to microparticles to pass through. A particle isolation/dispensing device is used, which has a washing liquid inflow channel connected to the upstream channel or the downstream channel, and the upstream channel is an isolated dispensing solution that delivers a solution for isolation and dispensing by opening and closing a valve. The downstream path is connected to the detected isolated dispensing solution outlet via a valve, and the washing liquid inflow path is connected to the washing liquid supply source through the valve so that the washing liquid can be sent out. However, the particle detection section is characterized by being provided with a sensor that detects a change in impedance between the electrodes.

According to the above-mentioned particle isolation and dispensing system, by opening and closing the upstream valve, the isolation and dispensing solution passes from the solution source through the upstream channel, is separated into individual particles at the narrow hole, and flows into the downstream channel. The number of particles is detected when a current is passed between the electrodes, and the hydrogen bubbles generated by water electrolysis are caused by micropores that allow ions to pass through but do not allow particles of a size comparable to microscopic particles to pass through. As a result of being prevented from entering the flow path, the isolated and dispensed solution can be detected accurately. moreover,
By operating the valve on the washing liquid inflow channel and the valve on the downstream channel, the detected isolated and dispensed solution in the upstream channel, constriction hole, and downstream channel can be released and fine particles remaining in the channel can be washed away. It is possible to eliminate errors in the number of fine particles due to particles.

Furthermore, the third feature of the particle isolation/dispensing device of the present invention is a constricted hole portion through which fine particles in a solution are individually separated and passed through, and upper and downstream channels connected to the upper and downstream sides of this constricted hole portion, respectively. and,
A diluent inflow path that dilutes the particle concentration of the isolated and dispensed solution connected to the upstream path, and a particle detection section that detects passing fine particles using electrodes that are disposed opposite to each other in the upper and downstream paths, sandwiching the narrow hole portion. and a cleaning liquid inflow path connected to the upstream path or the downstream path.

According to this particle isolation/dispensing device, since the diluent inflow channel for diluting the particle concentration of the isolation/dispensing solution m is connected to the upstream channel, the particle detection section detects the isolation/dispensing solution. If it is determined that the particle concentration is high, supply the diluent from the diluent inflow channel into the upstream channel, dilute the isolated and dispensed solution to an appropriate concentration, and adjust the isolated and dispensed solution to the desired value. Be able to separate and dispense.

Furthermore, the third aspect of the particle isolation and dispensing system of the invention of B is that the fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed through a constricted hole section;
A diluent inflow channel connects to the upper and downstream sides of the constricted hole, and an upper and downstream path connects to the upper and downstream sides of the constricted hole, and electrodes are disposed opposite to each other in the upper and downstream paths, sandwiching the narrowed hole. Using a particle isolation/dispensing device consisting of a particle detection section that detects fine particles and a cleaning liquid inflow path connected to an upstream path or a downstream path,
The upstream path is connected to an isolation and dispensing solution source that sends out the isolated and dispensing solution by opening and closing the valve, and the downstream path is connected to the detected isolated and dispensing solution outlet via the valve, and the dilution The liquid inflow path is connected via a valve so that the diluted liquid can be sent from the diluted liquid supply source into the upstream path, and the particle detection section is provided with a sensor that detects a change in impedance between the electrodes. It is something.

By configuring the particle isolation and dispensing system as described above,
If it is determined that the concentration of fine particles detected by the sensor in the particle detection section is high, operate the valve on the diluent inflow path to send the diluent from the diluent supply source into the upstream path, After diluting the fine particle concentration of the isolated and dispensed solution to an appropriate concentration and re-detect it, perform the isolation and dispense of the predetermined value, operate the downstream valve to detect the detected isolated and dispensed solution. can be released, it is possible to reduce errors in detecting the number of particles caused by continuous fine particles in the isolated and dispensed solution passing through the constricted hole.

The fourth feature of the particle isolation/dispensing device of the present invention is that the fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed through a constricted hole; and; a diluent inflow channel connected to the upstream channel; a particle detection unit that detects passing fine particles with electrodes disposed opposite to each other in the upper and downstream channels, sandwiching the narrowed hole; connected to the upstream channel or the downstream channel; This is characterized by providing a cleaning liquid inflow path.

Therefore, according to this particle isolation/dispensing device, if the particle concentration in the isolated and dispensed solution detected in the particle detection section is high, the diluent is introduced into the upstream channel from the diluent inflow channel and diluted to an appropriate concentration. After dispensing, a washing liquid can be poured into the upstream or downstream path to wash the flow, so that residual fine particles can be removed.

Furthermore, the fourth aspect of the particle isolation and dispensing system of the present invention includes a constricted hole portion through which fine particles in a solution are individually separated and passed;
An upper and a downstream path connected to the upper and downstream sides of this constricted hole, respectively; a diluent inflow path connected to the upstream path; and a diluted liquid inflow path that is connected to the upper and downstream sides of the narrowed hole; Using a particle isolation/dispensing device consisting of a particle detection section that detects fine particles; and a cleaning liquid inflow path connected to an upstream path or a downstream path,
The upstream path is connected to an isolation and dispensing solution source that delivers the isolated and dispensing solution by opening and closing a valve, and the downstream path is connected to a detected isolated and dispensing solution outlet via a valve, and the diluted solution is The inflow path is connected via a valve so that the diluent can be sent from the diluent supply source into the upstream path, and the cleaning liquid inflow path is connected through the valve so that the cleaning liquid can be sent out from the cleaning liquid supply source. This device is characterized in that the detection section is provided with a sensor that detects impedance changes between the f4 poles.

By configuring the particle isolation and dispensing system as described above,
If it is determined that the concentration of fine particles detected by the sensor in the particle detection section is high, operate the valve on the diluent inflow path to send the diluent from the diluent supply source into the upstream path, After diluting the fine particle concentration of the isolated and dispensed solution to an appropriate concentration and re-detect it, perform the isolation and dispense of the predetermined value, operate the downstream valve to detect the detected isolated and dispensed solution. can be released, it is possible to reduce errors in detecting the number of particles caused by continuous fine particles in the isolated and dispensed solution passing through the constricted hole. After releasing the detected isolated and dispensed solution, the remaining fine particles in the flow path can be removed by operating the valve on the side of the washing liquid inflow path and sending the washing liquid from the washing liquid supply source into the upstream path or downstream path. Since the particles can be flowed, fine particles in the isolation and dispensing solution can be accurately dispensed.

Furthermore, the fifth aspect of the particle isolation/dispensing device of the present invention is a constricted hole portion through which fine particles to be isolated and dispensed are individually separated and passed;
The narrowed hole is sandwiched between upper and downstream channels connected to the upper and downstream sides of the narrowed hole, and members having micropores that allow ions to pass through but do not allow air bubbles to pass through, respectively. It is characterized by providing a particle detection section consisting of electrodes arranged opposite to each other, an isolated dispensing solution particle concentration dilution liquid inflow path connected to the upstream path, and a cleaning liquid inflow path connected to the upstream path or the downstream path. That is.

Since the particle isolation/dispensing device is configured as described above, when the concentration of the isolated and dispensed solution detected through the entire constricted hole is high, the diluted solution is supplied from the diluted solution inflow channel to the upstream channel. Then, since the detected isolation and dispensing solution can be diluted to an appropriate concentration, it is possible to accurately isolate and dispense by performing the detection again. In addition, after the detected isolated and dispensed solution is discharged from the downstream path,
By sending the cleaning liquid through the cleaning liquid inflow path connected to the upstream path or the downstream path, the inside of the flow path can be cleaned and residual fine particles can be washed away, thereby eliminating detection errors due to residual fine particles. Furthermore, the electrodes are disposed facing each other in the upper and lower passages across the constricted hole through members having micropores that allow ions to pass through but do not allow particles of a size comparable to fine particles to pass through. Since it functions to prevent hydrogen bubbles generated by the electrolysis of water by the electrode from entering the flow path, it is possible to eliminate detection errors caused by bubbles.

The fifth feature of the particle isolation and dispensing system of the present invention is a constricted hole portion through which the fine particles to be isolated and dispensed are individually separated and passed through, and an upper portion connected to the upper and downstream sides of the constricted hole portion, respectively. ,
The downstream path and the upper and downstream paths each consist of electrodes disposed opposite to each other so as to sandwich the narrowed hole through a member having micropores that allow ions to pass through but prevent particles of a size comparable to fine particles from passing through. Using a particle isolation/dispensing device having a particle detection section, an isolation/dispensing mwX particle concentration dilution liquid inflow path connected to the upstream path, and a washing liquid inflow path connected to the upstream path or the downstream path, The channel is connected to the isolated dispensing solution supply source which delivers the solution for single dispensing by opening and closing the valve, and the downstream channel is connected to the detected isolated dispensing solution outlet via the valve, as well as the dilution The liquid inflow path is connected to a diluent supply source so as to be able to send out a particle concentration diluted solution of the isolated dispensing solution by operating a valve;
The cleaning liquid inflow path is connected to a cleaning liquid supply source so that the cleaning liquid can be sent to the upstream path or the downstream path by operating a valve, and the particle detection section is provided with a sensor that detects impedance changes between the electrodes. It is something to do.

Since the particle isolation and dispensing system is configured as described above, when the concentration of the isolation and dispensing solution detected through the constricted hole is high, the valves on the diluent inflow channel are operated to close the upper and downstream channels. When the isolation and dispensing solution is supplied, the isolation and dispensing solution is diluted to an appropriate particle concentration, so that accurate isolation and dispensing can be performed by re-detecting the particles. Furthermore, after discharging the detected isolated and dispensed solution from the downstream path, fine particles remaining in the channel are washed away by operating the valve to flow the cleaning solution from the washing solution inflow channel into the upstream channel or the downstream channel. , detection errors caused by residual microparticles are eliminated.

Furthermore, since the electrodes, which are disposed opposite to each other in the upper and lower channels across the constricted hole, are placed in the flow channel through a member having micropores that allow ions to pass through but do not allow air bubbles to pass through, the Hydrogen bubbles generated by electrolysis can be prevented from entering the flow path, and detection errors due to bubbles can be eliminated.

Embodiments Next, typical embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the drawings. However, the same reference numerals in each drawing represent the same members.

(Example 1) Figure 1 (al to tc+ shows the schematic structure of an embodiment of the particle isolation/dispensing device according to the present invention, Figure 1 (al is a vertical sectional view, Figure 1 (bl is the right side Top view, FIG. 1 (C1 is a bottom view.

In the particle isolation/dispensing device 13A of this embodiment, a cleaning liquid inflow path 7 is connected to the downstream #I3 of the narrow hole portion 1 through which fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed. The diameters of the flow path 3 and the cleaning liquid flow path 7 are at least 2 times the diameter of the narrow hole portion 1.
By doubling the size, the liquid can be distributed efficiently. When the pore diameter is twice or less, the flow resistance becomes large.

In addition, the pore diameter of the constricted pore portion 1 is 2 to 20% of the fine particles to be detected.
It is made to have the diameter of @. When the diameter is smaller than this, it is difficult to efficiently pass fine particles, and the impedance change required for particle detection cannot be obtained.

(Example 2) FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a particle isolation and dispensing system using the particle isolation and dispensing device 13A having the configuration of ta+ to (cl) in FIG. System 37 is
A particle isolating and dispensing device 13A having the same configuration as the particle isolating and dispensing device shown in FIG. A liquid tank 29 containing a solution 30 containing fine particles 6 to be poured is arranged. It is pressed by the pipe 21-1 and the upstream passage 2 and is sent out toward the narrow hole portion 1.

An impedance sensor 25 is connected to the electrodes 4 and 5 of the particle isolation/dispensing device 13A, and is capable of detecting fine particles from the change in impedance that occurs when passing through the constricted hole 1.

Further, a solenoid valve 23 is provided on the downstream side of the downstream passage 3, and when the solenoid valve 23 is set to the "open" state, the solution in the passages 2 and 3 enters the dispensing container 36 disposed below the discharge port. Flowed down to ``
When the channels 2 and 3 are closed, the solution should be retained in the channels 2 and 3.

Further, a cleaning liquid inflow path 7 is provided in the downstream path 3 connected directly below the narrowed hole 1, and a pipe 21-3 is connected to the tip of the cleaning liquid inflow path 7, and the flow path
, 3, the cleaning liquid 33 in the liquid tank 32 is activated.
The structure is such that the liquid is delivered.

In this embodiment, switching of the electromagnetic valves 22, 23, and 24 between "open" and "close" is performed by a control signal output from the controller 26 based on a detection signal sent from the sensor 25.

When detecting fine particles in a solution using the particle isolation and dispensing system 37 of this embodiment, the solenoid valve 22 is opened to allow the gas pressure of the pump 28 to act on the isolation and dispensing solution w130. .

As a result, the isolated and dispensed solution 30 is sent from the pipe 21-1 through the upstream passage 2 to the constricted hole portion 1.

At this time, the solenoid valve 23 is "open" and the solenoid valve 24 is "closed".

When the fine particles pass through the constricted hole section 1, an impedance change is detected by the sensor 25 of the particle detection section, the detection signal is output to the controller 26, and the controller 26 sends a control signal to the solenoid valves 22 and 23. , valve 2
2.23 becomes "closed" and the feeding of the isolated and dispensed solution 30 is stopped. Next, when the solenoid valves 23 and 24 are opened while the solenoid valve 22 is kept closed, the cleaning liquid 33 is sent into the downstream passage 3 through the cleaning liquid inlet passage 7 by the pump 31, and the cleaning liquid 33 is sent into the downstream passage 3 to remove the stenosis. The fine particles that have passed through the hole 1 are washed away and flowed into the dispensing container 36. When you want to continuously dispense individual fine particles, use the dispenser N36 in response to the detection signal of the sensor 25.
All you have to do is move it.

In the particle isolation and dispensing system shown in FIG. Unlike the system 37A, a solenoid valve is not provided on the isolated and dispensed solution side and on the washing liquid side, but a common solenoid valve (three-way switching valve) 22a is installed in the upstream passage 2 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. A cleaning liquid supply source 32 and an isolated dispensing solution supply source 29 are provided on the left and right sides of the switching path 21-1 of the solenoid valve, respectively.
by applying N gas pressure to both from a common N gas source (not shown) and opening either of the channels 2, 7 by switching the solenoid valve 22a. A structure may be adopted in which the isolated dispensing solution 30 or the washing a liquid 33 is fed into the container.

Further, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, an example has been described in which the cleaning liquid inflow path 7 is connected to the upstream path 2, but it may be connected to the downstream path 3. However, these upstream path 2 and downstream MI! The cleaning effect in the flow path can be enhanced by connecting the I3 and the cleaning liquid inflow path 7 to the upstream side of the electrode 4.5 in any of the flow paths.

(Example 3) FIG. 5 is a sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a second example of the particle isolation/dispensing device of the present invention.

This particle isolation/dispensing device 13C connects an upstream passage 2 and a downstream passage 3 through which a solution passes, respectively, to the upper and downstream sides of the constricted hole 1 through which fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed.
An upper solution reservoir 11 and a lower solution reservoir 12 are provided outside the upstream passage 2 and downstream #13, respectively. The upper solution reservoir 11 and the upstream channel 2 and the lower solution reservoir 12 and the downstream channel 3 are made of porous glass.
0 allows ions to pass through but prevents hydrogen bubbles of a size comparable to fine particles from passing through so that the solution can flow freely, and the upper solution reservoir 11 and the lower solution reservoir 12 each contain the above-mentioned solution. Electrodes 4 and 5 are arranged opposite to each other so as to sandwich the narrow hole portion 1 .

The upper ends of the upper solution reservoir 11 and the lower solution reservoir 12 are used to release hydrogen gas bubbles generated by water electrolysis (when the solution flows into the upstream path 2 and downstream path 3) when electricity is applied to the electrodes. Openings 11a and 12a are opened.

Further, a cleaning liquid inflow path 7 is provided near the tip of the downstream path 3 directly below the narrowed hole 1, and a pipe 21-2 is provided at the upper end of the cleaning fluid inflow path 7.
be connected. (See FIGS. 2 and 4) Sensors for detecting fine particles isolated and dispensed through the constricted hole 1 are connected to the 'ri electrodes 4 and 5.

When creating a particle isolation/dispensing system using the particle isolation/dispensing device 13C shown in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the solenoid valves 22, 23, and 24 are installed to allow the solution 30 and the cleaning liquid 33 to be fed into the upstream passage 2 and the cleaning liquid inlet passage 7, respectively.

The particle isolation/dispensing device shown in Figure 5 allows ions to pass through porous glass, etc. even if bubbles are generated due to hydrogen generation due to water electrolysis when electricity is applied to the electrodes of the particle detection part, but they are comparable to fine particles. Since a member having micropores that do not allow bubbles of this size to pass through is used, detection errors caused by these bubbles are eliminated, and accurate isolation and dispensing can be performed.

Furthermore, in the case of this example, the washing liquid inflow path is connected to the downstream path (or the upstream path may be used), so after the detection method isolation and dispensing solution has flowed out, the washing liquid can be injected into these channels. By allowing the hydrogen to flow in, residual fine particles in the channel can be removed, and together with the above-mentioned effect of preventing hydrogen bubbles from flowing in, accurate isolation and dispensing is possible.

(Example 4) Next, a schematic configuration of a third example of the particle isolation/dispensing device of the present invention is shown in FIG. 6 [al~(C1).

Figure 6 Body) ~ (C) Medium temperature Figure 6 (al is a cross-sectional view, Figure 6 f
bl is a right side view, Figure 6 (cl is a bottom view, 1 in the figure
2 is a constricted hole through which fine particles in the solution to be detected are individually separated and passed; 2 is an upstream passage through which a solution containing fine particles passes; 3
Reference numeral denotes a downstream path through which the detection solution that has passed through the constricted hole portion 1 flows downstream; 4 and 5 are electrodes disposed in the upstream and downstream paths; 7 is a washing liquid inflow path; and 17 is a diluent inflow path.

When isolating and dispensing fine particles in a solution using the particle isolating and dispensing 913D, a particle isolating and dispensing system having the configuration shown in FIG. 7 is constructed.

That is, the pipe 21 - 1 is connected to the end of the upstream passage 2 of the particle isolation/dispensing device 13 and connected to a solution tank containing fine particles, and the solution 30 in the solution tank 29 is released when the solenoid valve 22 is opened. By operating the pump 28, gas pressure is applied to the solution in the solution tank 29, and the solution 30 is passed through the upstream passage 2 of the pipe 21-1.
The liquid is delivered to the narrowed hole portion 1.

At this time, the solenoid valve 22 is brought into the "open" state, and the solenoid valve 23
．． 24 is "closed". The delivered solution enters the constricted hole part 1.
The impedance change due to this causes the electrodes 4 and 5 to
The number of particles per volume is detected from the time and flow rate of the solution.

If the number of particles detected per volume is high, the solenoid valve 27
is operated to "open", and as a result of the operation of the pump 34, the diluent 35 in the diluent tank is guided into the upstream channel 2 through the diluent inflow path 8, and as a result, the amount of solution passing through the constricted hole 1 is It can be diluted to the correct particle concentration.

In this way, when the diluted solution passes through the narrow hole 1 and enters the downstream path 3 and enters between the Ti electrodes 4 and 5, the impedance change that occurs at this time is detected by the sensor 25. A detection signal is sent to the controller 26, a control signal is issued from the controller 26, the solenoid valves 22, 23, and 24 are closed, and the feeding of the diluted solution is stopped.

Next, when the solenoid valves 22, 23 are opened while keeping the solenoid valves 22, 23, and 24 "closed," the pump 31 is activated and the cleaning liquid 33 in the cleaning liquid tank 32 flows into the cleaning liquid inflow path. 7 into the downstream passage 3, the fine particles that have passed through the constricted hole portion 1 are washed away, and the particles are dispensed into the dispenser M36. When it is desired to dispense individual fine particles, the dispensing container 36 may be moved and dispensed in response to the detection signal of the sensor 25.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG.
The fine particles that have passed through can be washed away by the washing liquid that enters from the washing liquid inflow path 7, and a method is adopted in which the fine particles are accurately dispensed one by one. However, when it is not necessary to dispense so accurately, electrodes 4 and 5 are provided upstream and downstream of the constricted hole 1 in the solution flow path 7, as shown in FIG. A particle isolation/dispensing device 13E having a washing liquid inflow channel 7 connected to the side may be used.

(Example 5) Next, when using particle isolation and dispensing N15D with the configuration shown in FIG. If there is a risk that particles may pass through the constricted hole 1 and be erroneously detected as fine particles, the particles shown in FIG. An upper solution reservoir 11 and a lower solution reservoir 12 are provided like the separation/dispensing device 13F, and ions such as porous glass are passed between the upper solution reservoir 11 and the upstream channel 2 and between the lower solution reservoir 12 and the downstream channel 3, but fine particles are not allowed to pass through. By providing members 9 and 10 having micropores that do not pass particles of a size comparable to that of the solution 30 containing microparticles
can freely flow, but since hydrogen bubbles do not pass through the narrowed hole 1, only fine particles that have passed through the narrowed hole 1 can be detected.

When constructing a particle isolation/dispensing system using this particle isolation/dispensing @130, the particle isolation/dispensing device 13E or 13F in place of the particle isolation/dispensing device 13D in FIG. It can be operated in exactly the same way as the particle isolation and dispensing system shown in Figure 7.

<Effects of the Invention> As is clear from the above description, the particle isolation/dispensing device of the present invention has a washing liquid inflow path connected to an upstream path or a downstream path of a conventional particle isolation/dispensing device, or an upstream path. A simple improvement that connects the diluted liquid inlet channel and further arranges the electrodes, which are placed opposite to each other in the upstream and downstream channels, through a member that allows ions to pass through but does not allow particles of a size comparable to fine particles to pass through. However, if only the hydrogen gas is added, accurate isolation and dispensing may not be possible due to fine particles remaining in the flow path, continuous isolation and dispensing may be difficult due to high particle concentration, or hydrogen bubbles may be generated from the electrode. This has the advantage of easily eliminating the drawback that detection errors may occur.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 (al, b) and fc are main part sectional views, right side views and bottom views showing the schematic configuration of one embodiment of the particle isolation/dispensing device according to the present invention, and FIG. A schematic configuration diagram of a particle isolation/dispensing system according to an embodiment of the present invention using the particle isolation/dispensing device shown in the figure, FIG. 3 (al, (bl) (e)
) is a cross-sectional view, a right side view, and a bottom view of main parts showing a schematic configuration of a method of connecting the particle isolation/dispensing device to a fine particle-containing solution supply source and a washing liquid supply source according to the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a right side view and a bottom view. 3
FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram of a particle isolation and dispensing system according to the connection procedure shown in FIG. , (
bl, (C1 is a main part sectional view, right side view, and bottom view showing the schematic configuration of another embodiment of the particle isolation/dispensing device according to the present invention, and FIG. 7 is the particle isolation/dispensing device shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the particle isolation and dispensing device according to the present invention; FIG.
The figure is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the particle isolation/dispensing device according to the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a conventional particle isolation/dispensing device. In the figure, 1. Narrow hole, 2. Upstream path, 3. Downstream path, 4. 5. Electrode, 6. Fine particles, 7. Washing liquid inflow path, 8. Diluent. Inflow channel 9.10...Member that allows ions to pass through but does not allow air bubbles to pass through, 11...Upper solution reservoir, 12...Lower solution reservoir, 13. Conventional particle isolation/dispensing device, 13A, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F... Particle isolation/dispensing device of the present invention, 22... Solenoid valve (solution side), 23... Solution outflow side solenoid valve, 24... Washing liquid side solenoid valve, 25... Sensor, 26... Controller, 27... Diluent side solenoid valve, 28... Solution side pump, 29... Solution tank 1. 30...Fine particle-containing solution, 31...Washing liquid side pump, 32...Washing liquid tank, 33...Washing liquid, 34...Diluted liquid side pump, 35...Diluted liquid, 36 ...Dispenser, 37..Particle isolation and dispensing system. Patent application agent Sumitomo Electric Industries Co., Ltd.

Claims (10)

[Claims] (1) A narrow hole section through which fine particles in a solution are individually separated and passed through; Upper and downstream channels connected to the upper and downstream sides of this narrow hole section, respectively; Upper and downstream channels sandwiching the narrow hole section; 1. A particle isolation/dispensing device comprising: a particle detecting section for detecting passing fine particles by electrodes arranged opposite to each other; and a cleaning liquid inflow channel connected to the upstream channel or the downstream channel. (2) A narrow hole section through which fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed through, upper and downstream channels connected to the upper and downstream sides of this narrow hole section, respectively, and upper and downstream channels sandwiching the narrow hole section. A particle detection unit that detects passing fine particles with electrodes arranged opposite to each other, and a particle isolation/dispenser equipped with a washing liquid connected to the upstream or downstream channel are used, and the upstream channel is operated by opening and closing a valve. The downstream path is connected to a fine particle-containing solution supply source that delivers a fine particle-containing solution through a valve, and the downstream path has a detected isolated dispensing solution outlet through a valve, and the washing liquid inlet path is connected to a fine particle-containing solution supply source through which a fine particle-containing solution is sent out. A particle isolation and dispensing system that is connected to a supply source so that a cleaning solution can be delivered, and that a particle detection section is provided with a sensor that detects impedance changes between electrodes. (3) A constricted hole portion through which fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed through; an upper and a downstream path connected to the upper and downstream sides of the narrowed hole portion; and ions through the upper and downstream paths, respectively; a particle detection section consisting of electrodes arranged opposite to each other so as to sandwich the constricted hole through a member having micropores that do not allow particles of a size comparable to fine particles to pass through; a cleaning liquid connected to the upstream channel or the downstream channel; A particle isolation/dispensing device characterized by being provided with an inflow path. (4) A constricted hole section through which fine particles in the solution are separated and passed through; an upper and a downstream path connected to the upper and downstream sides of this narrow hole section, respectively; ions pass through the upper and downstream paths, respectively; a particle detection unit consisting of electrodes arranged opposite to each other so as to sandwich the narrow hole portion through a member having a micropore that does not allow passage of particles of a size comparable to fine particles; a washing unit connected to the upstream passage or the downstream passage; A particle isolation/dispensing device having a liquid inflow channel is used, and the upstream channel is connected to a fine particle-containing solution supply source that delivers a solution for isolation and dispensing by opening and closing a valve, and the downstream channel is detected via a valve. In addition to being connected to the discharge port for the isolated and dispensed solution, the washing liquid inflow path is also connected via a valve so that the washing liquid can be sent from the washing liquid supply source, and the particle detection section is equipped with a sensor that detects impedance changes between the electrodes. A particle isolation and dispensing system characterized by being provided with. (5) a narrow hole portion through which fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed; upper and downstream channels connected to the upper and downstream sides of the narrow hole portion; and a diluent inflow channel connected to the upstream channel; A particle isolation/dispensing device characterized in that a particle detection section is provided for detecting passing fine particles by means of electrodes disposed opposite to each other in the upper and downstream channels, sandwiching the narrow hole section. (6) A constricted hole through which fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed; Upper and downstream channels connected to the upper and downstream sides of this narrowed hole, respectively; A diluent inflow channel connected to the upstream channel: A particle isolation/dispensing device is used, which is equipped with a particle detection section that detects passing fine particles by means of electrodes arranged oppositely in the upper and downstream channels, sandwiching the narrowed hole, and the upstream channel is equipped with a particle detector that detects passing fine particles by opening and closing a valve. The fine particle containing solution is connected to a fine particle containing solution supply source that sends out a fine particle containing solution, the downstream path is connected to a detected isolated dispensing solution outlet via a valve, and the diluent inflow path is connected to a diluted liquid supply source through a valve. The diluent is connected to be able to be delivered into the upstream passage from the
A particle isolation and dispensing system characterized in that a particle detection section is provided with a sensor that detects impedance changes between electrodes. (7) a narrow hole portion through which fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed; upper and downstream channels connected to the upper and downstream sides of the narrow hole portion; and a diluent inflow channel connected to the upstream channel; The present invention is characterized by comprising: a particle detection section that detects passing fine particles by means of electrodes disposed opposite to each other in the upper and downstream channels, sandwiching the narrow hole; and a cleaning liquid inflow channel connected to the upstream channel or the downstream channel. Particle isolation dispenser. (8) a narrow hole portion through which fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed; upper and downstream channels connected to the upper and downstream sides of the narrow hole portion; and a diluent inflow channel connected to the upstream channel; a particle detection unit that detects passing fine particles by electrodes disposed opposite to each other in the upper and downstream channels across the narrowed hole; and a particle isolation/dispensing unit that is provided with a cleaning liquid inflow channel connected to the upstream channel or the downstream channel. The upstream path is connected to a fine particle-containing solution supply source that delivers a fine particle-containing solution by opening and closing a valve, and the downstream path is connected to a detected isolated dispensing solution outlet via a valve. In addition, the diluent inflow path connects the diluent supply source to the upstream path via the valve, and the cleaning liquid inflow path connects the cleaning liquid supply source to the upstream path or the downstream path via the valve. What is claimed is: 1. A particle isolation and dispensing system, characterized in that the particle detection section is connected to enable delivery of a liquid and is provided with a sensor for detecting impedance changes between electrodes. (9) A constricted hole portion through which fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed through; an upper and downstream path connected to the upper and downstream sides of this narrowed hole portion; and ions passed through the upper and downstream paths, respectively; a particle detection section consisting of electrodes arranged opposite to each other so as to sandwich the constricted hole through a member having a micropore that does not pass particles of a size comparable to fine particles; a washing device connected to the upstream channel or the downstream channel; A particle isolation/dispensing device comprising: a liquid inflow path; and a diluent inflow path connected to the upstream path. (10) A constricted hole portion through which fine particles in the solution are individually separated and passed; Upper and downstream channels connected to the upper and downstream sides of this narrowed hole portion, respectively; Ions passed through the upper and downstream channels, respectively; a particle detecting section consisting of electrodes arranged opposite to each other so as to sandwich the narrow hole through a member having micropores that do not pass particles of a size comparable to fine particles; a cleaning liquid connected to the upstream channel or the downstream channel; An inflow path: A particle isolation/dispenser having a diluent inflow path connected to the upstream path is used, and the upstream path is connected to a fine particle-containing solution supply source that delivers a fine particle-containing solution by opening and closing a valve. , the downstream path is connected to the detected isolated and dispensed solution outlet via a valve, and the diluent inflow path is connected to the upstream path from the diluent supply source via the valve, and The liquid inflow path is connected to the cleaning liquid supply source via a valve so that the cleaning liquid can be sent to the upstream path or the downstream path, and the particle detection section is provided with a sensor that detects impedance changes between the electrodes. particle isolation and dispensing system.