Water quality detection device, method and system based on microfluidic chip

Abstract

The application relates to a water quality detection device, method and system based on a micro-fluidic chip. The water quality detection device based on the micro-fluidic chip comprises a control module, a driving module, a micro-fluidic chip and a detection module, the control module is in communication connection with the driving module, the micro-fluidic chip and the detection module respectively, the driving module is connected with the micro-fluidic chip, the micro-fluidic chip is connected with the detection module, the micro-fluidic chip is integrated with a valve unit for controlling a liquid flow path, the control module is used for controlling the driving module to execute a sucking instruction and a discharging instruction, and is used for controlling the detection module to execute a detection instruction, the driving module is used for sucking a water sample to be detected and a detection reagent into the detection module through the micro-fluidic chip, and is used for discharging waste liquid generated by the detection module through the micro-fluidic chip, and the detection module is used for performing digestion on the water sample to be detected by using the detection reagent, and is used for detecting the water sample after digestion. The application can realize multi-index detection of the water sample by using free reagents or few reagents.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water quality testing technology, and in particular to a water quality testing device, method and system based on a microfluidic chip. Background Technology

[0002] Water quality analyzers are instruments that use electrochemical or chemical reactions to react with specific substances in the water, and then calculate the content of those substances using methods such as colorimetry, titration, and conductivity measurement. However, the consumption of chemical reagents and the waste liquid generated require regular maintenance, which contributes to the total life-cycle cost of the equipment. In particular, wet chemical water quality analyzers only test one factor per unit, making it impossible to reduce the cost of testing multiple indicators. This limits the application of these water quality analyzers in scenarios with limited power supply and in marine environments.

[0003] Currently, commercially available automated water quality testing equipment using wet chemical methods, such as those for chemical oxygen demand (COD), ammonia nitrogen, total phosphorus (TP), and total nitrogen (TN), typically tests only one factor per device, resulting in high construction costs. Furthermore, reagent consumption is generally in the range of a few milliliters, leading to monthly reagent consumption and wastewater generation exceeding 10 liters, resulting in heavy maintenance requirements. Existing equipment is also too bulky to be suitable for various integrated applications and expansion into multiple application scenarios, especially in complex conditions such as sea surfaces, lakes, and sea / riverbanks. Current in-situ nutrient saline water quality testing equipment (nitrate nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen, ammonia nitrogen, phosphate, silicate) uses large and heavy power and flow control components, hindering the allocation of effective volume and weight to power and reagent components, making miniaturization and even micro-miniaturization difficult.

[0004] Furthermore, existing automatic water quality monitoring equipment consumes a large amount of reagents, generating substantial waste liquid and requiring regular maintenance. The large and heavy size of its components contributes to the overall bulk and weight of the equipment, making it unsuitable for complex applications such as sea surfaces, lakes, and sea / riverbanks. Additionally, since each automatic water quality monitoring device tests only one factor, multiple devices are needed for multiple indicators. While in-situ nutrient testing can measure ammonia nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen, phosphate, and silicate, it cannot test total nitrogen, total phosphorus, chemical oxygen demand, or permanganate index. Moreover, the numerous joints connecting the components increase the risk of airtightness issues; poor airtightness can lead to operational malfunctions.

[0005] In summary, there is an urgent need for a device, method, and system that is small in size, consumes little energy, requires few reagents, and can perform multi-index water quality testing. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the above, the present invention provides a water quality detection device, method and system based on a microfluidic chip, the purpose of which is to solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip, the device comprising: a control module, a drive module, a microfluidic chip, and a detection module, wherein the control module is communicatively connected to the drive module, the microfluidic chip, and the detection module, the drive module is connected to the microfluidic chip, and the microfluidic chip is connected to the detection module;

[0008] The control module is used to control the drive module to execute suction and discharge commands, and to control the detection module to execute detection commands;

[0009] The drive module is used to draw the water sample to be tested and the detection reagent into the detection module through the microfluidic chip according to the drawing instruction, and to discharge the waste liquid generated by the detection module through the microfluidic chip according to the discharge instruction;

[0010] The detection module is used to digest the water sample to be tested using the detection reagent, and to detect the digested water sample according to the detection command.

[0011] Secondly, the present invention provides a water quality detection method based on a microfluidic chip, applied to a water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip. The device includes a control module, a drive module, a microfluidic chip, and a detection module. The method includes:

[0012] The control module controls the drive module to execute the suction command;

[0013] According to the suction command, the drive module suctions the water sample to be tested and the detection reagent, which then enters the detection module through the microfluidic chip.

[0014] The detection module uses the detection reagent to digest the water sample to be tested, and then detects the digested water sample according to the detection command sent by the control module.

[0015] Thirdly, the present invention provides a water quality detection system based on a microfluidic chip, the system comprising the aforementioned water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip, a data server, and a monitoring terminal connected to the data server via a communication network, wherein the water quality detection device based on the microfluidic chip and the data server communicate via a radio electromagnetic communication network or an underwater acoustic communication network.

[0016] The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present invention have the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0017] This invention addresses the practical problems and application requirements of existing automatic water quality testing devices by designing a microfluidic-based multi-index water quality testing device with minimal or no reagent usage. Employing microfluidic chip technology, the device integrates valve units controlling the liquid flow path into the microfluidic chip. This allows for precise control of the mixing and reaction conditions between reagents and water samples, as well as precise control of detection conditions and measurement processes. Because the microfluidic chip integrates valve units for controlling the liquid flow path, it significantly improves integration and airtightness, making the water quality testing device more stable and reliable. The use of microfluidic chips enables miniaturization and even microscale design of the device, providing more space for the self-powered unit and achieving micro-level liquid metering technology. This greatly reduces reagent consumption and the size and weight of components, while allowing for the testing of multiple indicators and significantly reducing power consumption. Furthermore, the sampling microfluidic chip technology reduces the size and length of the liquid flow path, resulting in very rapid mixing and reaction of different liquids. The short flow path also saves measurement time and significantly reduces the amount of liquid reagents, thereby reducing reagent waste and greatly lowering operating and maintenance costs. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip according to the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip according to the present invention.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a preferred embodiment of the water quality detection method based on a microfluidic chip according to the present invention.

[0023] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0025] Reference Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic of the water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip according to the present invention.

[0026] The water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip includes a control module 40, a drive module 10, a microfluidic chip 20, and a detection module 30. The control module 40 is communicatively connected to the drive module 10, the microfluidic chip 20, and the detection module 30. The drive module 10 is connected to the microfluidic chip 20, and the microfluidic chip 20 is connected to the detection module 30. The microfluidic chip 20 integrates a valve unit for controlling the liquid flow path and a flow path channel corresponding to the valve unit.

[0027] The control module 40 is used to control the drive module 10 to execute suction commands and discharge commands, and to control the detection module 30 to execute detection commands;

[0028] The drive module 10 is used to draw the water sample to be tested and the test reagent into the test module 30 through the valve unit according to the drawing instruction, and to discharge the waste liquid generated by the test module 30 through the valve unit according to the discharge instruction;

[0029] The detection module 30 is used to digest the water sample to be tested using the detection reagent, and to detect the digested water sample according to the detection command.

[0030] In this embodiment, the control module 40 can be a microcontroller unit (MCU), the drive module 10 can be an injection pump that can draw and discharge liquid, and the microfluidic chip 20 has the characteristics of controllable liquid flow, minimal consumption of sample and reagents, and analysis speed increased by ten or even a hundred times. It can analyze multiple samples simultaneously in a few minutes or even less time, and can realize the entire process of sample pretreatment and analysis online. The detection module 30 can be a detection module that performs a digestion reaction on the water sample to be tested, and performs ultraviolet fluorescence detection and colorimetric detection on the water quality after the digestion reaction. The control module 40 is communicatively connected to the drive module 10, the microfluidic chip 20, and the detection module 30. The communication connection can be a wired or wireless connection. The drive module 10 is connected to the microfluidic chip 20 through a micro-channel liquid path, and the microfluidic chip 20 is connected to the detection module 30 through a micro-channel liquid path. That is, under the control of the control module 40, the liquid, including the water sample to be tested, reagents, and cleaning water sample, can flow between the drive module 10 and the microfluidic chip 20, or between the microfluidic chip 20 and the detection module 30.

[0031] The control module 40 can control the drive module 10 and the detection module 30. Since the drive module 10 is connected to the microfluidic chip 20 via its liquid path, it draws the water sample and reagents through the valve unit of the microfluidic chip 20 and into the detection module 30, where it tests the water quality. After testing, the drive module 10 discharges the waste liquid generated by the detection module 30 through the valve unit of the microfluidic chip 20. The control module 40 can also control the detection module 30 to calculate the silicate concentration, etc., in the water sample.

[0032] The drive module 10 draws in the water sample and reagents to be tested, which then pass through the microfluidic chip 20 into the detection module. The drive module 10 can also draw in distilled water to clean the microchannels in the microfluidic chip 20 and the detection module 30. The drive module 10 is also used to discharge waste liquid generated after detection by the detection module 30 through the valve unit of the microfluidic chip. Furthermore, the drive module 10 can also discharge waste liquid after cleaning the microchannels in the microfluidic chip 20 and the detection module 30 through the microfluidic chip 20.

[0033] The detection module 30 uses detection reagents to digest the water sample to be tested and then detects the digested water sample. Digestion refers to the use of acid or alkali solutions and heating conditions to destroy organic matter or reducing substances in the sample.

[0034] This invention addresses the practical problems and application requirements of existing automatic water quality testing devices by designing a microfluidic-based multi-index water quality testing device with minimal or no reagent consumption. Employing microfluidic chip technology, the device integrates valve units controlling the liquid flow path within the microfluidic chip. This allows for precise control of the mixing and reaction conditions between reagents and water samples, as well as accurate control of detection conditions and measurement processes. Because the microfluidic chip integrates valve units for controlling the liquid flow path, it significantly improves integration and airtightness, making the water quality testing device more stable and reliable. The use of microfluidic chips enables miniaturization and even micro-miniaturization of the device, providing more space for the self-powered unit and achieving micro-level liquid metering technology. This greatly reduces reagent consumption and the size and weight of components, while also allowing for the testing of multiple indicators and significantly reducing the device's power consumption.

[0035] Reference Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure of the water quality detection device based on the microfluidic chip of the present invention. The valve unit of the microfluidic chip 20 includes a first two-position three-way valve unit, a second two-position three-way valve unit, a third two-position three-way valve unit, a first two-position two-way valve unit, and a bellows.

[0036] The normally closed end of the first two-position two-way valve unit is connected to one end of the bellows, and the other end of the bellows is connected to the normally open end of the first two-position three-way valve unit. The normally closed end of the first two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the common end of the second two-position three-way valve unit. The common end of the first two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the normally open end of the third two-position three-way valve unit. The normally open end of the third two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the output end of the detection module 30, and the normally closed end of the third two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the input end of the detection module 30.

[0037] The first two-position three-way valve unit refers to Figure 2 The two-position three-way valve 25 in the middle, the second two-position three-way valve unit refers to Figure 2 The two-position three-way valve 26 in the middle, the third two-position three-way valve unit refers to Figure 2 Two-position three-way valves 21-24, the first two-position two-way valve unit refers to... Figure 2 The two-position two-way valve 271-279 in the middle, the bellows refers to Figure 2In the bellows 29, the normally closed ends of the first two-position two-way valve units 271-279 are connected to one end of the bellows 29, and the other end of the bellows 29 is connected to the normally open end of the first two-position three-way valve unit 25. The normally closed end of the first two-position three-way valve unit 25 is connected to the common end of the second two-position three-way valve unit 26. The common end of the first two-position three-way valve unit 25 is connected to the normally open end of the third two-position three-way valve unit 21-24. The normally open end of the third two-position three-way valve unit 21-24 is connected to the output end of the detection module 30, and the normally closed end of the third two-position three-way valve unit 21-24 is connected to the input end of the detection module 30. Furthermore, the connection between the corresponding pipes of the first two-position two-way valve units 270-279 and the second two-position two-way valve unit 279A and the bellows 29 can be a circular ring connection. Bellows 29 is used to mix liquid and / or air entering from the first two-position two-way valve unit 270-279 and the second two-position two-way valve unit 279A. It should be noted that when the valve is not energized, the normally open terminal N0 is connected to the common terminal, and the normally closed terminal NC is closed to the common terminal. When the valve is energized, the normally open terminal N0 is closed to the common terminal, and the normally closed terminal NC is connected to the common terminal.

[0038] By integrating valve components into a microfluidic chip, the connectors required for connecting valves can be eliminated, ensuring airtightness, reducing malfunctions, saving flow path space, significantly reducing reagent consumption, reducing the number of failure points in the water quality testing device, and improving the stability of the water quality testing device.

[0039] Furthermore, the third two-position three-way valve unit includes a first two-position three-way valve component, a second two-position three-way valve component, a third two-position three-way valve component, and a fourth two-position three-way valve component;

[0040] The common terminal of the first two-position three-way valve is connected to the drive module 10. The normally open terminal of the first two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the second two-position three-way valve. The normally open terminal of the second two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the third two-position three-way valve. The normally open terminal of the third two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the fourth two-position three-way valve. The normally open terminal of the fourth two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the first two-position three-way valve unit.

[0041] The common end of the first two-position three-way valve 21 is connected to the drive module 10 (for example, connected to the drive module 10 via the buffer ring 7). The normally open end of the first two-position three-way valve 21 is connected to the common end of the second two-position three-way valve 22. The normally open end of the second two-position three-way valve 22 is connected to the common end of the third two-position three-way valve 23. The normally open end of the third two-position three-way valve 23 is connected to the common end of the fourth two-position three-way valve 24. The normally open end of the fourth two-position three-way valve 24 is connected to the common end of the first two-position three-way valve unit 25.

[0042] Furthermore, the detection module 30 includes a digestion unit, an ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit, a first colorimetric detection unit, and a second colorimetric detection unit;

[0043] The output end of the digestion unit is connected to the normally open end of the fourth two-position three-way valve, and the input end of the digestion unit is connected to the normally closed end of the fourth two-position three-way valve.

[0044] The output terminal of the ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit is connected to the normally open terminal of the third two-position three-way valve, and the input terminal of the ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit is connected to the normally closed terminal of the third two-position three-way valve.

[0045] The output terminal of the first colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally open terminal of the second two-position three-way valve, and the input terminal of the first colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally closed terminal of the second two-position three-way valve.

[0046] The output terminal of the second colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally open terminal of the first two-position three-way valve, and the input terminal of the second colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally closed terminal of the first two-position three-way valve.

[0047] The output of digestion unit 3 is connected to the normally open end of the fourth two-position three-way valve 24 via a connector. The input of digestion unit 3 is connected to the normally closed end of the fourth two-position three-way valve 24 via a connector. The output of ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit 4 is connected to the normally open end of the third two-position three-way valve 23 via a connector. The input of ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit 4 is connected to the normally closed end of the third two-position three-way valve 23 via a connector. The output of first colorimetric detection unit 5 is connected to the normally open end of the second two-position three-way valve 22 via a connector. The input of first colorimetric detection unit 5 is connected to the normally closed end of the second two-position three-way valve 22 via a connector. The output of second colorimetric detection unit 6 is connected to the normally open end of first two-position three-way valve 21 via a connector. The input of second colorimetric detection unit 6 is connected to the normally closed end of first two-position three-way valve 21 via a connector.

[0048] The input end of the digestion unit 3 is connected to the normally closed end of the two-position two-way valve 901 via a connector; the input end of the ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit 4 is connected to the normally closed end of the two-position two-way valve 902 via a connector; the input end of the first colorimetric detection unit 5 is connected to the normally closed end of the two-position two-way valve 903 via a connector; and the second colorimetric detection unit 6 is connected to the normally closed end of the two-position two-way valve 904 via connectors. The two-position two-way valves 901-904 are used to introduce atmospheric pressure, so that after the digestion unit 3, ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit 4, first colorimetric detection unit 5, and second colorimetric detection unit 6 perform detection or reaction, the waste liquid can be discharged from the detection module 30.

[0049] Furthermore, the water quality testing device also includes a cleaning waste liquid tank 289 and a reagent waste liquid tank 289A. The normally open end of the second two-position three-way valve unit 26 is connected to the reagent waste liquid tank 289 via a connector, and the normally closed end of the second two-position three-way valve unit 26 is connected to the cleaning waste liquid tank 289A via a connector.

[0050] Furthermore, the water quality detection device also includes a second two-position two-way valve unit 279A, which is connected to the normally closed end of the first two-position two-way valve unit 270-279. The second two-position two-way valve unit 279A is used to control the air entering the microfluidic chip 20.

[0051] Furthermore, the first two-position two-way valve unit 270-279 includes two or more two-position two-way valves. The two-position two-way valves are used to control the entry of the water sample to be tested and the detection reagent into the microfluidic chip 20. Each two-position two-way valve is connected to the water sample to be tested and the detection reagent outside the microfluidic chip 20 through a connector. Each two-position two-way valve has a corresponding detection reagent or water sample to be tested. For example, acidic molybdic acid enters the microfluidic chip 20 through two-position two-way valve 272, a reducing agent enters the microfluidic chip 20 through two-position two-way valve 273, and a masking agent enters the microfluidic chip 20 through two-position two-way valve 279, etc.

[0052] Furthermore, the water quality testing device also includes a buffer ring 7, and the drive module 10 is connected to the first two-position three-way valve 21 of the microfluidic chip 20 via a connector through the buffer ring 7. The buffer ring can prevent impact pressures such as high pressure or pressure peaks.

[0053] Furthermore, the device also includes a distilled water container unit 8, which is connected to the drive module 10. The distilled water container unit 8 contains distilled water, and the drive module 10 can draw distilled water to clean the tubing in the microfluidic chip 20 and the tubing in the detection module 30.

[0054] Furthermore, the device also includes a wireless communication unit electrically connected to the control module 40, the wireless communication module including a radio electromagnetic communication unit or an underwater acoustic communication unit. The microfluidic chip-based water quality detection device can establish communication connections with other devices (e.g., servers, underwater acoustic communication devices, etc.) through the wireless communication unit, thereby enabling communication with other devices.

[0055] By integrating microfluidic chip technology and water quality testing devices, the components are compactly integrated, reducing the number of joints between pipes and thus improving airtightness. The number of two-position two-way valves of the microfluidic chip can be increased according to needs, and the number of reagent connectors can be expanded to enable multiple indicators to be tested on one device. The highly integrated microfluidic chip control flow path significantly reduces reagent volume and improves mixing efficiency.

[0056] Taking the detection of silicate concentration in the water sample as an example, this scheme is explained as follows: First, a rinsing operation is performed. The drive module 10 draws in the stroke and selects 1-1. The two-position three-way valve 24 is energized and connected to the normally closed terminal. At this time, the common terminal and the normally closed terminal are a closed circuit, and the common terminal and the normally open terminal are a closed circuit. The two-position two-way valve 271 is energized and opened to draw in the rinsing water sample. After drawing in the rinsing water sample for a certain period of time, the two-position two-way valve 271 is de-energized and closed. The two-position two-way valve 279A is opened to draw in air. The sample enters the bellows 29 and mixes with air. After running for a certain period of time, the rinse water sample completely enters the digestion unit 3. The two-position two-way valve 279A closes to stop the air intake. The drive module 10 advances the stroke and selects 1-1. The two-position three-way valve 25 is energized and connected to the normally closed end, and the two-position three-way valve 26 is energized and connected to the normally closed end. The rinse water sample enters the cleaning waste liquid tank 289A. The control module 40 controls the two-position three-way valve 24, the two-position three-way valve 25, and the two-position three-way valve 26 to de-energize.

[0057] Then, the detection operation is performed. The drive module 10 absorbs the stroke and selects 1-1. The two-position three-way valve 24 is energized and connected to the normally closed end. The two-position two-way valve 271 is energized and opened to absorb the water sample to be tested. After absorbing for a certain period of time, the two-position two-way valve 271 closes. The two-position two-way valve 279A opens to absorb air. The water sample to be tested and the air enter the bellows 29 and mix. After running for a certain period of time, the two-position two-way valve 279A is de-energized, the two-position three-way valve 24 is de-energized, and the drive module 10 is reset (for example, the drive module 10 is reset when the stroke and selects 1-2 are advanced).

[0058] Drive module 10 draws in the stroke and selects 1-1. Two-position three-way valve 24 is energized and connected to the normally closed end. Two-position three-way valve 272, which draws in the acidic ammonium molybdate solution, is energized and opened. After a certain period of drawing, two-position three-way valve 272 is de-energized, and two-position two-way valve 279A is opened to draw in air. The acidic ammonium molybdate solution enters the bellows 29 through valve 272 and mixes with the water sample to be tested. They then enter the digestion unit 3 together. After running for a certain period of time, valve 279A and two-position three-way valve 24 are de-energized. The metered acidic ammonium molybdate solution enters the digestion unit 3 and reacts with the silicates in the water sample to form yellow silicomolybdate heteropoly acid and silicomolybdate yellow. Drive module 10 is then reset.

[0059] Drive module 10 absorbs the stroke and selects 1-1. Two-position three-way valve 24 is energized and connected to the normally closed end. Two-position three-way valve 279, which absorbs the masking agent, is energized and opened. After absorbing for a certain period of time, two-position three-way valve 279 is de-energized. Two-position two-way valve 279A is opened to absorb air. The masking agent enters the bellows 29 through valve 279, mixes, and then enters the digestion unit 3. After running for a certain period of time, valve 279A is de-energized. Two-position three-way valve 24 is de-energized. The citric acid and potassium antimony tartrate of the masking agent remove the interference of phosphorus and potassium in seawater. Drive module 10 is reset.

[0060] Drive module 10 draws in the stroke and selects 1-1. Two-position three-way valve 24 is energized and connected to the normally closed end. Two-position three-way valve 273, which draws in the reducing agent, is energized and opened. After a certain period of drawing, two-position three-way valve 273 is de-energized. Two-position two-way valve 279A is opened to draw in air. The reducing agent enters the bellows 29 through valve 273, mixes, and then enters the digestion unit 3. After running for a certain period of time, valve 279A is de-energized. Two-position three-way valve 24 is de-energized. After passing through the masking agent, silicomolybdenum yellow reacts with ascorbic acid in the reducing agent to produce silicomolybdenum blue. Drive module 10 is reset.

[0061] The drive module 10 draws in the stroke and selects 1-1. The two-position two-way valve 901 is energized and opens to allow atmospheric pressure to enter the digestion unit 3. The two-position three-way valve 22 is energized and connects to the normally closed end. The mixed liquid enters the first colorimetric detection unit 5. The two-position two-way valve 901 is de-energized and closes. The two-position three-way valve 22 is closed. The absorbance is calculated at the first colorimetric detection unit 5. The absorbance is proportional to the concentration. The concentration of silicate in the water sample to be tested is calculated by the control module.

[0062] The drive module 10 advances the stroke and selects the gate 1-1. Two-position three-way valve 22 is energized and connected to its normally closed position, as is two-position three-way valve 25. The mixed waste liquid enters the reagent waste liquid tank 289 via the normally open ends of the first colorimetric detection unit 5, two-position three-way valves 23, 24, 25, and 26. Afterwards, two-position three-way valve 22 is de-energized. This enables the detection of silicate concentration in the water sample to be tested.

[0063] After the silicate test of the water sample, a cleaning operation can be performed. The drive module 10 draws in the water and selects the flow path 1-2. Distilled water from the distilled water container unit 8 enters the drive module 10. The drive module 10 advances the flow path and selects the flow path 1-1. The distilled water passes through the buffer ring 7. The two-position three-way valve 22 is energized and connected to the normally closed end. The distilled water enters the first colorimetric detection unit 5 through the two-position three-way valve 22, passes through the two-position three-way valve 23, the two-position three-way valve 22 is de-energized and connected to the normally open end, the two-position three-way valve 24 is energized and connected to the normally closed end, and enters the digestion unit 3. The two-position three-way valve 25 is energized and connected to the normally closed end, the two-position three-way valve 26 is energized and connected to the normally closed end, and enters the cleaning waste liquid tank 289A through the normally closed end of the two-position three-way valve 26 via the two-position three-way valve 25. Then, the two-position three-way valve 24, the two-position three-way valve 25, and the two-position three-way valve 26 are de-energized.

[0064] Drive module 10 draws in water and selects the flow path 1-2. Distilled water from distilled water container unit 8 enters drive module 10. Drive module 10 advances the flow path and selects the flow path 1-1. Two-position two-way valve 279A is energized and opened to draw in air. Distilled water passes through buffer ring 7, then through two-position three-way valves 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25. After a period of time, the distilled water reaches two-position two-way valve 279A. Drive module 10 draws in water and selects the flow path 1-1. Distilled water returns completely through two-position three-way valve 25. Two-position two-way valve 279A is de-energized. Drive module 10 advances the flow path and selects the flow path 1-1. Two-position three-way valve 26 is energized and connected to its normally closed end. The water then enters the cleaning waste liquid tank 289A through the normally closed end of two-position three-way valve 26. Two-position three-way valve 26 is de-energized, thus completing the cleaning of the device after the water sample to be tested.

[0065] To further illustrate this scheme, let's take the detection of ammonia nitrogen concentration in the water sample as an example. First, a rinsing operation is performed. The rinsing operation is the same as the rinsing process before the detection of silicate concentration, and will not be repeated here.

[0066] After rinsing, the testing operation is performed. The drive module 10 is energized and the two-position three-way valve 24 is normally closed. The two-position two-way valve 271 is energized and opened to absorb the water sample to be tested. After a certain period of absorption, the two-position two-way valve 271 is closed, and the two-position two-way valve 279A is opened to absorb air. The water sample to be tested and the air are mixed after entering the bellows 29. After running for a certain period of time, the two-position two-way valve 279A is de-energized, the two-position three-way valve 24 is de-energized, and the drive module 10 is reset (for example, the drive module 10 is reset by advancing the stroke and selecting 1-2).

[0067] The drive module 10 draws in the stroke and selects 1-1. The two-position three-way valve 24 is energized and connected to the normally closed end. The two-position two-way valve 278, which draws in the phthalaldehyde / sodium sulfite solution, is energized and opened. After a certain period of drawing, valve 278 is de-energized, and the two-position two-way valve 279A opens to draw in air. The phthalaldehyde / sodium sulfite solution enters the bellows 29 through valve 278 and mixes with the water sample to be tested. After mixing, they enter the digestion unit 3 together. After running for a certain period of time, valve 279A is de-energized, and the two-position three-way valve 24 is de-energized. The metered phthalaldehyde / sodium sulfite solution enters the digestion unit 3 and mixes thoroughly with the ammonia nitrogen in the water sample to be tested. The drive module 10 is then reset.

[0068] Drive module 10 draws in the stroke and selects 1-1. Two-position three-way valve 24 is energized and connected to the normally closed end. Two-position two-way valve 274, which draws in borax-sodium hydroxide solution, is energized and opened. After a certain period of drawing, valve 274 is de-energized, and two-position two-way valve 279A opens to draw in air. The borax-sodium hydroxide solution enters the bellows 29 through valve 274, mixes, and then enters the digestion unit 3. After running for a certain period of time, valve 279A is de-energized, and two-position three-way valve 24 is de-energized. The borax-sodium hydroxide solution enters the digestion unit 3 and is fully mixed to generate a fluorescent isoindole derivative. Drive module 10 is then reset.

[0069] The drive module 10 draws in the flow and selects the gate 1-1. The two-position two-way valve 901 is energized and opens to allow atmospheric pressure to enter the digestion unit 3. The two-position three-way valve 23 is energized and connected to the normally closed end. The mixed liquid enters the ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit 4. The valve 901 is de-energized and the two-position three-way valve 23 is de-energized. The fluorescence intensity of the fluorescent substance is detected at the maximum excitation wavelength of 362nm and the maximum emission wavelength of 425nm. The fluorescence intensity is proportional to the concentration. The concentration of ammonia nitrogen in the water sample to be tested is calculated by the control module 40.

[0070] The drive module 10 advances the stroke and selects 1-1. Two-position three-way valve 23 is energized and connected to its normally closed position, as is two-position three-way valve 25. The mixed waste liquid enters the reagent waste liquid tank 289 via the normally open ends of the ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit 4, two-position three-way valves 24, 25, and 26. Then, two-position three-way valve 23 is de-energized. This allows for the detection of ammonia nitrogen concentration in the water sample. After the silicate concentration detection, a cleaning operation can be performed, which is consistent with the cleaning operation after the silicate concentration detection and will not be described again here.

[0071] The inlet section of the water quality detection device based on the microfluidic chip of the present invention consists of multiple two-position, two-way valves that connect to different liquids (e.g., water samples and reagents) and control their flow. Metering and inlet are achieved by the drive module 10. The detection unit controls the flow path using multiple two-position, three-way valves. Ultraviolet fluorescence detection (e.g., ammonia nitrogen) can be performed using the ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit 4, and colorimetric detection (e.g., nitrate nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen, phosphate, silicate, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, etc.) can be performed using the first colorimetric detection unit 5 or the second colorimetric detection unit 6. During the wastewater discharge process, the drive module 10 and multiple two-position, three-way valves can separate the wastewater generated by the detection reaction into cleaning wastewater and reagent wastewater for discharge, further reducing the amount of wastewater generated. Because the microfluidic chip integrates valve units for controlling the liquid flow path, the integration and airtightness are greatly improved, making the device more stable and reliable in operation.

[0072] Furthermore, the microfluidic chip technology reduces the size and length of the liquid flow path, enabling rapid mixing and reactions of different liquids. The short flow path significantly saves measurement time and greatly reduces the amount of liquid reagents required, thereby reducing reagent waste and significantly lowering operating and maintenance costs. The device integrates the detection of multiple indicators into a single unit, allowing for parallel detection of various indicators in water samples, such as total phosphorus, total nitrogen, ammonia nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen, phosphate, silicate, and hexavalent chromium. Moreover, by externalizing the digestion unit 3, ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit 4, first colorimetric detection unit 5, and second colorimetric detection unit 6 onto the microfluidic chip, the units used for detection can be flexibly adjusted according to actual usage.

[0073] This invention provides a water quality detection system based on a microfluidic chip. The system includes a water quality detection device and a data server as described above. The water quality detection device and the data server communicate via a radio electromagnetic communication network or an underwater acoustic communication network. The data server is used to receive and store the detection data acquired by the water quality detection device. The data server can be a tower server, rack server, blade server, or high-density server, etc.

[0074] Preferably, the system further includes a monitoring terminal connected to the data server communication network. The monitoring terminal displays real-time data based on the detection data, issues warnings for water quality test results exceeding standards, and detects malfunctions of the microfluidic chip-based water quality detection device. The monitoring terminal can display various test data of the water sample in real-time through a human-machine interface. When abnormal indicators are found in the test data, it can issue a water quality anomaly warning. When the microfluidic chip-based water quality detection device malfunctions, the monitoring terminal can also issue a malfunction warning. The monitoring terminal can be a smartphone, personal computer, laptop, or tablet computer, etc.

[0075] This invention also provides a water quality detection method based on a microfluidic chip. (See reference...) Figure 3 The diagram shown is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the water quality detection method based on a microfluidic chip according to the present invention. This method is applied to a water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip. The device includes a control module, a drive module, a microfluidic chip, and a detection module. The microfluidic chip integrates a valve unit for controlling the liquid flow path. The method includes:

[0076] Step S110: The control module controls the drive module to execute the suction command;

[0077] Step S120: The drive module, according to the aspiration command, aspirates the water sample to be tested and the detection reagent, which then enters the detection module via the microfluidic chip;

[0078] Step S130: The detection module digests the water sample to be tested using the detection reagent, and detects the digested water sample according to the detection command sent by the control module.

[0079] Furthermore, the method also includes:

[0080] The control module controls the drive module to execute emission commands;

[0081] According to the discharge command, the drive module discharges the waste liquid generated by the detection module through the valve unit.

[0082] The specific implementation of the water quality detection method based on microfluidic chip of the present invention is largely the same as the specific implementation of the water quality detection device based on microfluidic chip described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0083] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0084] The control module controls the drive module to execute the suction command;

[0085] According to the suction command, the drive module suctions the water sample to be tested and the detection reagents, which then enter the detection module through the valve unit.

[0086] The detection module uses the detection reagent to digest the water sample to be tested, and then detects the digested water sample according to the detection command sent by the control module.

[0087] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0088] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.

Claims

1. A water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip, characterized in that, The device includes: a control module, a drive module, a microfluidic chip, and a detection module. The control module is communicatively connected to the drive module, the microfluidic chip, and the detection module. The drive module is connected to the microfluidic chip, and the microfluidic chip is connected to the detection module. The microfluidic chip integrates a valve unit for controlling the liquid flow path. The control module is used to control the drive module to execute suction and discharge commands, and to control the detection module to execute detection commands; The drive module is used to draw the water sample to be tested and the test reagent into the test module through the valve unit according to the drawing instruction, and to discharge the waste liquid generated by the test module through the valve unit according to the discharge instruction; The detection module is used to digest the water sample to be tested using the detection reagent, and to detect the digested water sample according to the detection command; The valve unit includes a first two-position three-way valve unit, a second two-position three-way valve unit, a third two-position three-way valve unit, a first two-position two-way valve unit, and a bellows; The normally closed end of the first two-position two-way valve unit is connected to one end of the bellows, and the other end of the bellows is connected to the normally open end of the first two-position three-way valve unit. The normally closed end of the first two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the common end of the second two-position three-way valve unit. The common end of the first two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the normally open end of the third two-position three-way valve unit. The normally open end of the third two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the output end of the detection module, and the normally closed end of the third two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the input end of the detection module. The third two-position three-way valve unit includes a first two-position three-way valve component, a second two-position three-way valve component, a third two-position three-way valve component, and a fourth two-position three-way valve component; The common terminal of the first two-position three-way valve is connected to the drive module; the normally open terminal of the first two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the second two-position three-way valve; the normally open terminal of the second two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the third two-position three-way valve; the normally open terminal of the third two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the fourth two-position three-way valve; and the normally open terminal of the fourth two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the first two-position three-way valve unit. The detection module includes a digestion unit, an ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit, a first colorimetric detection unit, and a second colorimetric detection unit; The output end of the digestion unit is connected to the normally open end of the fourth two-position three-way valve, and the input end of the digestion unit is connected to the normally closed end of the fourth two-position three-way valve. The output terminal of the ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit is connected to the normally open terminal of the third two-position three-way valve, and the input terminal of the ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit is connected to the normally closed terminal of the third two-position three-way valve. The output terminal of the first colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally open terminal of the second two-position three-way valve, and the input terminal of the first colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally closed terminal of the second two-position three-way valve. The output terminal of the second colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally open terminal of the first two-position three-way valve, and the input terminal of the second colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally closed terminal of the first two-position three-way valve.

2. The water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The device also includes a cleaning waste liquid tank and a reagent waste liquid tank. The normally open end of the second two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the reagent waste liquid tank, and the normally closed end of the second two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the cleaning waste liquid tank.

3. The water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The device further includes a second two-position two-way valve unit, which is connected to the normally closed end of the first two-position two-way valve unit. The second two-position two-way valve unit is used to control the air entering the microfluidic chip.

4. The water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first two-position two-way valve unit includes two or more two-position two-way valve components, which are used to control the water sample to be tested and the detection reagent to enter the microfluidic chip.

5. The water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The device also includes a buffer ring, through which the drive module is connected to the microfluidic chip.

6. The water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The device also includes a distilled water container unit, which is connected to the drive module.

7. The water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The device further includes a wireless communication module electrically connected to the control module, the wireless communication module including a radio electromagnetic communication unit or an underwater acoustic communication unit.

8. A water quality detection method based on a microfluidic chip, employing the water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The device includes a control module, a drive module, a microfluidic chip, and a detection module. The microfluidic chip integrates a valve unit for controlling the liquid flow path. The method includes: The control module controls the drive module to execute the suction command; According to the suction command, the drive module suctions the water sample to be tested and the detection reagents, which then enter the detection module through the valve unit. The detection module uses the detection reagent to digest the water sample to be tested, and performs detection on the digested water sample according to the detection command sent by the control module; The valve unit includes a first two-position three-way valve unit, a second two-position three-way valve unit, a third two-position three-way valve unit, a first two-position two-way valve unit, and a bellows; The normally closed end of the first two-position two-way valve unit is connected to one end of the bellows, and the other end of the bellows is connected to the normally open end of the first two-position three-way valve unit. The normally closed end of the first two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the common end of the second two-position three-way valve unit. The common end of the first two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the normally open end of the third two-position three-way valve unit. The normally open end of the third two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the output end of the detection module, and the normally closed end of the third two-position three-way valve unit is connected to the input end of the detection module. The third two-position three-way valve unit includes a first two-position three-way valve component, a second two-position three-way valve component, a third two-position three-way valve component, and a fourth two-position three-way valve component; The common terminal of the first two-position three-way valve is connected to the drive module; the normally open terminal of the first two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the second two-position three-way valve; the normally open terminal of the second two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the third two-position three-way valve; the normally open terminal of the third two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the fourth two-position three-way valve; and the normally open terminal of the fourth two-position three-way valve is connected to the common terminal of the first two-position three-way valve unit. The detection module includes a digestion unit, an ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit, a first colorimetric detection unit, and a second colorimetric detection unit; The output end of the digestion unit is connected to the normally open end of the fourth two-position three-way valve, and the input end of the digestion unit is connected to the normally closed end of the fourth two-position three-way valve. The output terminal of the ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit is connected to the normally open terminal of the third two-position three-way valve, and the input terminal of the ultraviolet fluorescence detection unit is connected to the normally closed terminal of the third two-position three-way valve. The output terminal of the first colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally open terminal of the second two-position three-way valve, and the input terminal of the first colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally closed terminal of the second two-position three-way valve. The output terminal of the second colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally open terminal of the first two-position three-way valve, and the input terminal of the second colorimetric detection unit is connected to the normally closed terminal of the first two-position three-way valve.

9. A water quality detection system based on a microfluidic chip, characterized in that, The system includes at least one water quality detection device based on a microfluidic chip as described in any one of claims 1-7, a data server, and a monitoring terminal connected to the data server via a communication network. The water quality detection device based on the microfluidic chip and the data server communicate via a radio electromagnetic communication network or an underwater acoustic communication network.

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