Microfluidic chip detection device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a microfluidic chip detection device, comprising: a chip receiving mechanism configured to receive a microfluidic chip; a plurality of solution storage mechanisms respectively configured to store a plurality of solutions; a tip storage mechanism configured to store a plurality of tips to be used; a tip picking mechanism configured to pick up a tip from the tip storage mechanism; a fluid driving mechanism in communication with the tip picking mechanism, configured to perform suction and release of a solution by the tip picked up by the tip picking mechanism, and to realize the flow of the solution in the microfluidic chip by communication with the microfluidic chip; and a position adjusting mechanism connected with the tip picking mechanism, configured to adjust the position of the tip picking mechanism relative to the tip storage mechanism, the plurality of solution storage mechanisms and the chip receiving mechanism.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of microfluidics, and in particular to a microfluidic chip detection device. Background Technology

[0002] Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a widely used technique in the field of biological detection. First proposed and implemented in the 1960s, it has now become one of the most commonly used and mature techniques in clinical immunology. There are three main forms of ELISA: sandwich assay, competitive assay, and indirect assay. Taking the indirect assay as an example, the detection process requires the addition of the sample, enzyme-labeled antibody solution, and enzyme-catalyzed dominant substance solution, as well as the washing away of the sample and enzyme-labeled antibody solution.

[0003] Because the testing process involves multiple additions of samples and reagents, researchers need to operate manually or with the aid of existing experimental equipment. In some related technologies, the experimental equipment uses pipettes to aspirate and release samples or reagents. To avoid contamination between samples and reagents caused by the pipette tips used in the pipettes, researchers still need to manually change the pipette tips, making the testing process cumbersome and inefficient. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present disclosure provides a microfluidic chip detection device that can reduce manual operation by experimental personnel and simplify the detection process.

[0005] In one aspect of this disclosure, a microfluidic chip detection device is provided, comprising:

[0006] The chip receiving mechanism is configured to receive microfluidic chips;

[0007] Multiple solution storage mechanisms are configured to store various solutions;

[0008] The tip storage mechanism is configured to store multiple pipette tips to be used;

[0009] A tip pickup mechanism is configured to pick up a pipette tip from the tip pickup mechanism;

[0010] A fluid drive mechanism, connected to the tip pickup mechanism, is configured to aspirate and release solution via the pipette tip picked up by the tip pickup mechanism, and to enable the flow of solution within the microfluidic chip via communication with the microfluidic chip; and

[0011] A position adjustment mechanism, connected to the tip pickup mechanism, is configured to adjust the position of the tip pickup mechanism relative to the tip storage mechanism, the plurality of solution storage mechanisms, and the chip receiving mechanism.

[0012] In some embodiments, the tip pickup mechanism is configured to pick up different tips for solution aspiration when the fluid drive mechanism drives the pipette tip to aspirate solutions from the plurality of solution storage units.

[0013] In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device further includes:

[0014] A discarded gun tip collection mechanism is configured to collect discarded gun tips;

[0015] The position adjustment mechanism is further configured to adjust the tip pickup mechanism above the waste tip collection mechanism so that the pipette tip currently picked up and used by the tip pickup mechanism falls off the tip pickup mechanism and enters the waste tip collection mechanism.

[0016] In some embodiments, the discarded gun tip collection mechanism includes: a housing having an internal cavity and an upper insertion port directly communicating with the internal cavity.

[0017] The position adjustment mechanism is further configured to insert the pipette tip, which has been picked up and used by the tip pickup mechanism, into the upper insertion port from top to bottom, and to dislodge the pipette tip from the tip pickup mechanism by shaking the pipette tip.

[0018] In some embodiments, the plurality of solution storage mechanisms include:

[0019] The sample solution container is configured to store a sample solution mixed with the sample to be tested or a sample to be tested that can be mixed with a reagent solution to form a sample solution;

[0020] At least one reagent solution container is configured to store at least one reagent solution for detection.

[0021] The position adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the tip pickup mechanism above the tip storage mechanism so that the tip pickup mechanism can pick up the pipette tip, and to adjust the tip pickup mechanism above the sample solution container, the chip receiving mechanism and / or the at least one reagent solution container so that the fluid drive mechanism can aspirate or release the sample solution or the at least one reagent solution through the pipette tip.

[0022] In some embodiments, the at least one reagent solution container includes:

[0023] A sample diluent container is configured to store a diluent for mixing and diluting samples;

[0024] The position adjustment mechanism is further configured to adjust the tip pickup mechanism above the sample diluent container so that the fluid drive mechanism can draw up the diluent through the pipette tip, then adjust the tip pickup mechanism above the sample solution container so that the fluid drive mechanism can release the diluent into the sample solution container through the pipette tip to mix with the sample to be tested to form a sample solution, and then adjust the tip pickup mechanism above the chip receiving mechanism so that the fluid drive mechanism can release the sample solution into the microfluidic chip through the pipette tip and drive the sample solution to flow within the microfluidic chip.

[0025] In some embodiments, the at least one reagent solution container includes:

[0026] The enzyme-labeled antibody solution container is configured to store the enzyme-labeled antibody solution;

[0027] A cleaning fluid container is configured to store a cleaning fluid for cleaning the microfluidic chip; and

[0028] An activation fluid container is configured to store the activation fluid.

[0029] The position adjustment mechanism is further configured to adjust the tip pickup mechanism above the enzyme-labeled antibody solution container, the washing solution container, and the activation solution container in a predetermined order, so that the fluid drive mechanism can aspirate the solution from the corresponding container through the pipette tip and adjust the tip pickup mechanism above the chip receiving mechanism, so that the fluid drive mechanism can drive the solution aspirated from the pipette tip to be released into the microfluidic chip and flow within the microfluidic chip.

[0030] In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device further includes:

[0031] The bracket has a support surface, wherein the plurality of solution storage mechanisms and the gun tip storage mechanism are all disposed on the support surface;

[0032] The position adjustment mechanism includes:

[0033] A first direction adjustment component, operably connected to the tip pickup mechanism, is configured to adjust the position of the tip pickup mechanism in a first direction;

[0034] A second direction adjustment component, operably connected to the bracket, is configured to adjust the position of the bracket in a second direction;

[0035] A third-direction adjustment component, operably connected to the tip pickup mechanism, is configured to adjust the position of the tip pickup mechanism in a third-direction upward direction.

[0036] Wherein, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first direction is parallel to the vertical direction.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first direction adjustment component, the second direction adjustment component, and the third direction adjustment component all include a stepper motor, which is configured to adjust the relative position between the gun tip pickup mechanism and the bracket in a series of steps of uniform acceleration-uniform speed-uniform deceleration.

[0039] In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device further includes: a waste gun tip collection mechanism configured to collect waste gun tips;

[0040] The discarded gun tip collection mechanism includes:

[0041] The box body has an internal cavity and an upper insertion port that communicates directly with the internal cavity, and is fixedly connected to the bracket;

[0042] A drawer, removably mounted on the bracket and located below the housing, is provided to receive discarded gun tips that fall from the internal cavity of the housing.

[0043] In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip has a solution inlet, a reaction channel communicating with the solution inlet, and a waste liquid chamber communicating with the reaction channel, and the chip receiving mechanism includes:

[0044] A chip tray is configured to support the microfluidic chip and tilt the surface of the microfluidic chip at a preset angle relative to the horizontal plane, so that the communication position between the reaction channel and the waste liquid chamber is higher than other positions of the waste liquid chamber, and the communication position between the solution inlet and the reaction channel is lower than other positions of the reaction channel.

[0045] In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device further includes:

[0046] An image acquisition mechanism is configured to acquire images of the reaction state of the microfluidic chip.

[0047] The image acquisition mechanism and the position adjustment mechanism are connected by an inclined adapter so that the imaging surface of the image acquisition mechanism is always parallel to the surface of the microfluidic chip.

[0048] In some embodiments, the chip receiving mechanism further includes:

[0049] The support has a wedge-shaped surface inclined relative to a horizontal plane, the chip tray is movably disposed on the wedge-shaped surface, and the surface of the chip tray is parallel to the wedge-shaped surface;

[0050] A tray translation drive assembly is disposed on the wedge-shaped surface and connected to the chip tray, and is configured to drive the chip tray to translate along a direction parallel to the wedge-shaped surface;

[0051] A chip fixing assembly, disposed on the support, is configured to press the microfluidic chip in the chip tray that is already in place.

[0052] In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device further includes: a temperature control mechanism configured to perform temperature control on at least the microfluidic chip; wherein the temperature control mechanism includes:

[0053] The main heating component, disposed on the chip tray, is configured to heat the lower surface of the microfluidic chip to bring the microfluidic chip to the reaction temperature;

[0054] An auxiliary heating component is configured to be disposed on the upper surface of the microfluidic chip to achieve heat preservation of the microfluidic chip.

[0055] In some embodiments, the auxiliary heating assembly includes:

[0056] PCB heating plate, with enclosed or non-enclosed cutouts;

[0057] Wherein, the orthographic projection of the hollow portion on the surface of the microfluidic chip at least partially coincides with the orthographic projection of the reaction channel on the surface of the microfluidic chip.

[0058] In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device further includes:

[0059] The housing houses the chip receiving mechanism, the plurality of solution storage mechanisms, the tip storage mechanism, the tip pickup mechanism, the fluid driving mechanism, and the position adjustment mechanism.

[0060] A first fan is installed inside the housing, and the airflow direction is directed towards the plurality of solution storage mechanisms;

[0061] The second fan is mounted on the wall of the housing. The air inlet of the second fan faces the outside of the housing, and the air outlet of the second fan points to the air inlet side of the first fan.

[0062] In some embodiments, the fluid drive mechanism includes:

[0063] plunger pump;

[0064] The solenoid valve assembly is connected to the air circuit of the plunger pump;

[0065] The solenoid valve assembly includes:

[0066] The first solenoid valve has its first end operably connected to the microfluidic chip via an air passage;

[0067] The second solenoid valve has its first end operably connected to the gun tip pickup mechanism via an air passage;

[0068] The third solenoid valve has its first end connected to the second end of the first solenoid valve and the second solenoid valve respectively via an air passage, and its second end connected to the working port of the plunger pump via an air passage.

[0069] The fourth solenoid valve has its first end connected to the reset port of the plunger pump via an air passage, and its second end connected to the atmosphere.

[0070] In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip includes:

[0071] Base plate;

[0072] A functional layer is disposed on the surface of the base plate and has a reaction channel and a waste liquid chamber communicating with the reaction channel. The reaction channel has a plurality of rotary-shaped receiving cavities arranged along the extension direction of the reaction channel.

[0073] A top plate covers the functional layer and has a solution inlet and a fluid drive port penetrating the top plate, wherein the solution inlet is directly connected to the reaction channel;

[0074] Multiple specific microsphere sensors are respectively disposed within the multiple rotating body-shaped receiving cavities.

[0075] In some embodiments, the functional layer further includes:

[0076] A heat insulation groove is disposed on at least one side of the reaction channel, and the plurality of rotating body-shaped receiving cavities are located within the range of the orthogonal projection of the heat insulation groove onto the reaction channel.

[0077] In some embodiments, a buffer channel is provided between the reaction channel and the waste liquid chamber, at least a portion of the buffer channel forms a preset angle with the reaction channel, and the portion of the buffer channel that contacts the waste liquid chamber also has an anti-deformation structure, the anti-deformation structure being configured to maintain the consistency of the buffer channel diameter when the functional layer is bonded to the base plate.

[0078] In some embodiments, the functional layer further includes:

[0079] A baffle is located on the side of the waste liquid chamber away from the reaction channel, and is used to form a fluid driving chamber that communicates with the fluid driving port, such that one end of the fluid driving chamber is separated from the waste liquid chamber and the other end is connected to the waste liquid chamber.

[0080] In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip further includes:

[0081] A funnel-shaped solution receiving structure is disposed on the side of the top plate away from the bottom plate and is connected to the solution inlet.

[0082] Therefore, according to the embodiments of this disclosure, the position of the pipette tip pickup mechanism is adjusted by the position adjustment mechanism so that the pipette tip pickup mechanism can pick up the pipette tip, and cooperate with the fluid drive mechanism to realize the aspiration and release of multiple solutions stored in multiple solution storage mechanisms by the pipette tip. This can effectively reduce the manual pipetting or handling of pipette tips by laboratory personnel, simplify the detection process, and improve detection efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0083] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of this disclosure and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0084] This disclosure will become clearer with reference to the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description, wherein:

[0085] Figure 1 These are schematic diagrams of some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to this disclosure;

[0086] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationship between the position adjustment mechanism, the bracket, and the tip pickup mechanism in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to this disclosure;

[0087] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to the present disclosure;

[0088] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the nozzle tip storage mechanism, solution storage mechanism, and waste nozzle tip collection mechanism in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to this disclosure;

[0089] Figure 5 (a)-(e) are schematic diagrams illustrating the processes of picking up, using, and removing the tip of a microfluidic chip detection device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0090] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the chip receiving mechanism in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to the present disclosure;

[0091] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the chip receiving mechanism and the fluid driving mechanism in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to this disclosure;

[0092] Figure 8 and Figure 9 These are exploded views of the chip tray, temperature control mechanism, and microfluidic chip assembly structure from different perspectives in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to this disclosure.

[0093] Figure 10 (a)-(c) are schematic diagrams showing the exploded structure, reaction channel and buffer channel of a microfluidic chip in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to the present disclosure.

[0094] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the functional layer in the microfluidic chip according to some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device disclosed herein;

[0095] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the connection relationship of the fluid drive mechanism in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to the present disclosure.

[0096] It should be understood that the dimensions of the various parts shown in the accompanying drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Furthermore, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar components. Detailed Implementation

[0097] Various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The descriptions of the exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative and are in no way intended to limit the present disclosure or its application or use. The present disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. These embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully express the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that, unless specifically stated otherwise, the relative arrangement of components and steps, the composition of materials, numerical expressions, and values ​​set forth in these embodiments should be interpreted as exemplary only and not as limiting.

[0098] The terms "first," "second," and similar words used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different parts. Words such as "including" or "contains" mean that the element preceding the word encompasses the element listed after it, and do not exclude the possibility of encompassing other elements as well. Terms such as "above," "below," "left," and "right" are used only to indicate relative positional relationships; when the absolute position of the described object changes, this relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0099] In this disclosure, when a specific device is described as being located between a first device and a second device, an intermediary device may or may not be present between the specific device and the first or second device. When a specific device is described as being connected to other devices, the specific device may be directly connected to the other devices without an intermediary device, or it may be not directly connected to the other devices but have an intermediary device.

[0100] All terms used in this disclosure (including technical or scientific terms) have the same meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains, unless otherwise specifically defined. It should also be understood that terms defined in a general dictionary, such as a dictionary, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and not as having an idealized or highly formalized meaning, unless expressly defined herein.

[0101] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0102] In some related technologies, experimental equipment uses pipetting devices to aspirate and release samples or reagents. In order to avoid contamination between samples and reagents caused by the pipette tips used in the pipetting device, the experimental personnel still need to manually replace the pipette tips, which makes the detection process cumbersome and inefficient.

[0103] In view of this, the present disclosure provides a microfluidic chip detection device that can reduce manual operation by experimental personnel and simplify the detection process.

[0104] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationship between the position adjustment mechanism, the bracket, and the tip pickup mechanism in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to this disclosure. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the nozzle tip storage mechanism, solution storage mechanism, and waste nozzle tip collection mechanism in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to this disclosure.

[0105] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device includes: a chip receiving mechanism 10, multiple solution storage mechanisms 20, a pipette tip storage mechanism 30, a pipette tip pickup mechanism 32, a fluid driving mechanism 50, and a position adjustment mechanism 60. The chip receiving mechanism 10 is configured to receive a microfluidic chip 80. The multiple solution storage mechanisms 20 are each configured to store multiple solutions. The pipette tip storage mechanism 30 is configured to store multiple pipette tips 31 to be used. The pipette tip pickup mechanism 32 is configured to pick up the pipette tips 31 from the pipette tip pickup mechanism 32.

[0106] The fluid drive mechanism 50 is connected to the tip pickup mechanism 32 and is configured to aspirate and release solutions via the pipette tip 31 picked up by the tip pickup mechanism 32, and to realize the flow of solutions within the microfluidic chip 80 through communication with the microfluidic chip 80. The position adjustment mechanism 60 is connected to the tip pickup mechanism 32 and is configured to adjust the position of the tip pickup mechanism 32 relative to the tip storage mechanism 30, the plurality of solution storage mechanisms 20, and the chip receiving mechanism 10.

[0107] In this embodiment, the position of the pipette tip pickup mechanism 32 is adjusted by the position adjustment mechanism 60 so that the pipette tip pickup mechanism 32 can pick up the pipette tip 31. In conjunction with the fluid drive mechanism 50, the pipette tip 31 can absorb and release various solutions stored in multiple solution storage mechanisms 20. This can effectively reduce the manual pipetting or handling of the pipette tip 31 by the experimenter, simplify the detection process, and improve detection efficiency.

[0108] In this embodiment, the solution storage mechanism may include containers in the form of bottles, test tubes, etc. Figure 4 In this system, the solution storage mechanism may include a sample solution container 21 and at least one reagent solution container. Depending on the testing requirements, the reagent solution container may include various combinations. For example, in the indirect method of ELISA, the reagent solution container may include an enzyme-labeled antibody solution container 23, a washing solution container 24, and an activation solution container 25, etc. The sample solution container 21 can directly store a sample solution mixed with the sample to be tested, or it can be used to mix the sample to be tested with the reagent solution to form a sample solution. In this case, the reagent solution container also includes a sample diluent container 22. By adding the diluent from this container to the sample solution container 21, the diluent mixes with the sample to be tested in the sample solution container 21 to form a sample solution.

[0109] The tip storage mechanism 30 can store pipette tips with the tip facing downwards and the mounting portion facing upwards. Multiple pipette tips 31 can be inserted into openings on the upper surface of the box-shaped structure in an array arrangement. The tip pickup mechanism 32 includes a downward-facing tip connector that moves toward and presses against the mounting portion of the pipette tip 31. The tip pickup mechanism 32 may also include a tip mating block 321 connected to the tip mating block and a buffer spring 322 provided on the tip mating block 321 to cushion the pipette tip 31 during insertion.

[0110] In some detection processes using the microfluidic chip detection device of this disclosure, it is necessary to use a pipette tip to pick up multiple different solutions. In order to avoid contamination of other solutions by a pipette tip that has already picked up a certain solution, in some embodiments, the pipette tip pickup mechanism 32 is configured to pick up different pipette tips 31 for solution pickup when the fluid drive mechanism 50 drives the pipette tip 31 to pick up solutions from the plurality of solution storage units 20 respectively.

[0111] In this way, the pipette tip pickup mechanism 32 picks up different pipette tips 31 to draw solutions from different solution storage mechanisms 20, so as to avoid contamination of other solutions by the pipette tip that has drawn a certain solution.

[0112] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device further includes a waste pipette tip collection mechanism configured to collect waste pipette tips. The position adjustment mechanism 60 is further configured to adjust the pipette tip pickup mechanism 32 above the waste pipette tip collection mechanism, so that the pipette tip 31 currently picked up and used by the pipette tip pickup mechanism 32 falls off the pipette tip pickup mechanism 32 and enters the waste pipette tip collection mechanism.

[0113] In detection processes involving the addition of multiple solutions, different pipette tips 31 are used to aspirate and release different solutions. The position adjustment mechanism 60 adjusts the tip pickup mechanism 32 above the waste tip collection mechanism to remove the used pipette tips 31, thereby enabling the tip pickup mechanism 32 to pick up new pipette tips 31 from the tip storage mechanism 30.

[0114] exist Figure 3 and Figure 4 The waste pipette tip collection mechanism includes a housing 71 having an internal cavity and an upper insertion port directly communicating with the internal cavity. The position adjustment mechanism 60 is further configured to insert the currently used pipette tip 31 from top to bottom into the upper insertion port, and to dislodge the pipette tip 31 from the pipette tip pickup mechanism 32 by shaking it.

[0115] When the tip pickup mechanism 32 needs to remove the used pipette tip 31, it is moved above the housing 71, and the pipette tip 31 is inserted downwards into the upper insertion port of the housing 71. At this time, the adjustment mechanism slides the tip pickup mechanism 32 to make the pipette tip 31 collide with the edge of the upper insertion port. This loosens the connection between the pipette tip 31 and the tip pickup mechanism 32 until the pipette tip 31 falls off the tip pickup mechanism 32 under the action of gravity and falls into the internal cavity of the housing 71. This method does not require the design of a complex tip pickup structure; a tip connector that can achieve a tight fit with the pipette tip 31 is sufficient.

[0116] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device further includes a bracket 61 with a supporting surface. The plurality of solution storage mechanisms 20 and the tip storage mechanism 30 are all disposed on the supporting surface. The position adjustment mechanism 60 includes a first direction adjustment component 62, a second direction adjustment component 63, and a third direction adjustment component 64. The first direction adjustment component 62 is operably connected to the tip pickup mechanism 32 and configured to adjust the position of the tip pickup mechanism 32 in a first direction d1. The second direction adjustment component 63 is operably connected to the bracket 61 and configured to adjust the position of the bracket 61 in a second direction d2. The third direction adjustment component 64 is operably connected to the tip pickup mechanism 32 and configured to adjust the position of the tip pickup mechanism 32 in a third direction d3.

[0117] The first direction d1, the second direction d2, and the third direction d3 are perpendicular to each other. The position adjustment mechanism 60 achieves a more comprehensive adjustment range through adjustments in these three mutually perpendicular directions. The bracket 61 can support the solution storage mechanism 20 and the tip storage mechanism 30 as a whole, and its position in the second direction d2 is changed under the adjustment action of the second direction adjustment component 63. The tip pickup mechanism 32 changes its position in the first direction d1 and the third direction d3 under the adjustment action of the first direction adjustment component 62 and the third direction adjustment component 64. This cooperative structure is beneficial to the internal layout of the detection device, making the structure more compact.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first direction d1 is parallel to the vertical direction. When the first direction is parallel to the vertical direction, the second direction and the third direction are both parallel to the horizontal plane. Accordingly, the second direction adjustment component 63 and the third direction adjustment component 64 adjust the relative positions of the bracket 61 and the gun tip pickup mechanism 32 in the horizontal plane, respectively, and the first direction adjustment component 62 adjusts the height position of the gun tip pickup mechanism 32 relative to the bracket 61 in the vertical direction.

[0119] exist Figure 3 In this configuration, the first direction adjustment component 62, the second direction adjustment component 63, and the third direction adjustment component 64 may each include a stepper motor. The stepper motor is configured to adjust the relative position between the gun tip pickup mechanism 32 and the bracket 61 using a uniform acceleration-uniform speed-uniform deceleration step sequence. The stepper motor enables more precise step control, and the uniform acceleration-uniform speed-uniform deceleration step adjustment method makes the adjustment process more stable and reliable, avoiding impact and shaking during position adjustment.

[0120] Figure 3 The first direction adjustment component 62 may include a stepper motor 621 and a limit switch 622. The stepper motor 621 may be a lead screw motor, and the lead screw at its output end may be drivably connected to the tip pickup mechanism 32. The limit switch 622 may cooperate with the stepper motor 621 and the guide shaft to limit the movement position of the tip pickup mechanism 32 in the first direction d1.

[0121] Figure 3 The second direction adjustment assembly 63 may include a stepper motor 631, a drive pulley 632, a timing belt 633, a toothed plate 634, and a driven pulley 635. The stepper motor 631 drives the drive pulley 632 to rotate. The timing belt 633 is fitted onto the drive pulley 632 and the driven pulley 635, and engages with them through toothed teeth. The toothed plate 634 is located between the drive pulley 632 and the driven pulley 635, clamped onto the timing belt 633, and engages with it through toothed teeth. Thus, when the drive pulley 632 rotates, it drives the timing belt 633 to move, thereby causing the toothed plate 634 and its connected bracket 61 to translate in the second direction d2.

[0122] Figure 3 The third-direction adjustment component 64 may include: a stepper motor 641, a drive wheel 642, a transmission belt 643, a guide rail 644, and a driven wheel 645. The stepper motor 641 drives the drive wheel 642 to rotate, and the transmission belt 643 is fitted onto the drive wheel 642 and the driven wheel 645. The gun tip pickup mechanism, etc., is connected to the transmission belt 643 and is slidably connected to the guide rail 644 via a slider. The guide rail 644 extends along the third-direction d3 and can limit the displacement of the gun tip pickup mechanism, etc., in the third-direction d3. Thus, when the drive wheel 642 rotates, it drives the transmission belt 643 to move, thereby causing the gun tip pickup mechanism, etc., to translate in the third-direction d3.

[0123] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4In some embodiments, the discarded gun tip collection mechanism further includes a drawer 72, removably mounted on the bracket 61. The housing 71 is fixedly connected to the bracket 61. The bracket 61 may be configured as a double-layered platform, with the housing 71 located on the upper platform and the drawer 72 located below the housing 71 to receive discarded gun tips falling from the internal cavity of the housing 71.

[0124] In this way, the waste pipette tip collection mechanism receives the waste pipette tips 31 through the housing 71, and they fall into the drawer 72 under gravity. The operator can pull out the drawer 72 to remove the accumulated waste tips, and return the empty drawer 72 to the bottom of the housing 71 to continue receiving waste tips. The drawer 72 can be attracted to the bracket 61 by magnets or other means, so that it is easy to remove and can maintain its positional stability.

[0125] To achieve a better reaction environment, refer to Figure 3 In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device further includes: a housing 91, a first fan 92, and a second fan 93. The housing 91 houses the chip receiving mechanism 10, the plurality of solution storage mechanisms 20, the tip storage mechanism 30, the tip pickup mechanism 32, the fluid drive mechanism 50, and the position adjustment mechanism 60. The first fan 92 is disposed within the housing 91, and its airflow direction is directed towards the plurality of solution storage mechanisms 20. The second fan 93 is disposed on the wall of the housing 91, its air inlet facing the outside of the housing 91, and its airflow direction pointing towards the air inlet side of the first fan 92.

[0126] The second fan 93 draws in cooler air from outside the chamber 91 and supplies it to the interior of the chamber 91 to regulate the temperature, preventing excessively high internal temperatures from adversely affecting the reaction. The exhaust direction of the second fan 93 is directed towards the first fan 92, which in turn is directed towards the solution storage mechanism 20. This delivers cool external air to the solution storage mechanism 20 to cool the solution, effectively preventing excessively high internal temperatures from affecting the reagent solution.

[0127] refer to Figure 4In some embodiments, the plurality of solution storage mechanisms 20 include: a sample solution container 21 and at least one reagent solution container. The sample solution container 21 is configured to store a sample solution mixed with a test sample or a test sample that can be mixed with a reagent solution to form a sample solution. The at least one reagent solution container is configured to store at least one reagent solution for detection. The position adjustment mechanism 60 is configured to adjust the tip pickup mechanism 32 above the tip storage mechanism 30 so that the tip pickup mechanism 32 picks up the pipette tip 31, and to adjust the tip pickup mechanism 32 above the sample solution container 21, the chip receiving mechanism 10, and / or the at least one reagent solution container so that the fluid drive mechanism 50 aspirates or releases the sample solution or the at least one reagent solution through the pipette tip 31.

[0128] For example, the pipette tip 31 is picked up by the tip pickup mechanism 32 to draw sample solution from the sample solution container 21 and release it into the microfluidic chip 80 received by the chip receiving mechanism 10. Furthermore, at least one reagent solution is drawn from at least one reagent solution container and added to the microfluidic chip 80 for reaction. The sample solution container 21 can directly store a sample solution mixed with the sample to be tested, or it can store the sample to be tested and form a sample solution by adding reagent solutions.

[0129] exist Figure 4 In this configuration, at least one reagent solution container may include a sample diluent container 22, configured to store diluent for mixing and diluting samples. Accordingly, the position adjustment mechanism 60 may be further configured to adjust the tip pickup mechanism 32 above the sample diluent container 22 so that the fluid drive mechanism 50 draws diluent through the pipette tip 31, then adjusts the tip pickup mechanism 32 above the sample solution container 21 so that the fluid drive mechanism 50 releases diluent through the pipette tip 31 into the sample solution container 21 to mix with the sample to be tested to form a sample solution, and then adjusts the tip pickup mechanism 32 above the chip receiving mechanism 10 so that the fluid drive mechanism 50 causes the pipette tip 31 to release the sample solution into the microfluidic chip 80 and drives the sample solution to flow within the microfluidic chip 80.

[0130] For the sample solution container 21 storing the sample to be tested, the pipette tip 31 can be picked up by the tip pickup mechanism 32, and the diluent can be drawn from the sample diluent container 22 and then added to the sample solution container 21 for mixing, thereby forming a sample solution. When the sample solution is released into the microfluidic chip 80, the sample solution can be driven to flow within the microfluidic chip 80 by the fluid drive mechanism 50.

[0131] To achieve indirect detection using ELISA, refer to Figure 4 In some embodiments, at least one reagent solution container further includes: an enzyme-labeled antibody solution container 23, a washing solution container 24, and an activation solution container 25. The enzyme-labeled antibody solution container 23 is configured to store the enzyme-labeled antibody solution. The washing solution container 24 is configured to store washing solution for cleaning the microfluidic chip 80. The activation solution container 25 is configured to store activation solution. Accordingly, the position adjustment mechanism 60 is further configured to adjust the tip pickup mechanism 32 above the enzyme-labeled antibody solution container 23, the washing solution container 24, and the activation solution container 25 in a predetermined order, so that the fluid drive mechanism 50 can aspirate the solution from the corresponding container through the pipette tip 31 and adjust the tip pickup mechanism 32 above the chip receiving mechanism 10, so that the fluid drive mechanism 50 can drive the solution aspirated from the pipette tip 31 to be released into the microfluidic chip 80 and flow within the microfluidic chip 80.

[0132] In the detection process using ELISA technology, the position adjustment mechanism 60, the tip pickup mechanism 32, and the fluid drive mechanism 50 add reagent solutions such as enzyme-labeled antibody solution, washing solution, and activation solution to the microfluidic chip 80 in a predetermined order to achieve an effective detection process.

[0133] Figure 5 (a)-(e) are schematic diagrams illustrating the processes of tip pickup, use, and removal according to some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device of this disclosure. Figure 5 In (a), the tip pickup mechanism 32 picks up the pipette tip 31 from the tip storage mechanism 30. Figure 5 In (b), the pipette tip 31 is moved to a solution storage container to draw up the solution. Figure 5 In step (c), the pipette tip 31, which is drawing up the solution, is moved above the microfluidic chip 80, and the solution is released into the microfluidic chip 80. Figure 5 In step (d), the used pipette tip 31 is moved above the housing 71 and inserted into the upper insertion port 711 so that the pipette tip 31 can be dislodged from the tip pickup mechanism 32 by shaking the pipette tip 31. Figure 5 In (e), the reaction state of the microfluidic chip 80 is captured by the image acquisition mechanism 41.

[0134] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the chip receiving mechanism in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the chip receiving mechanism and the fluid driving mechanism in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to this disclosure.

[0135] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some embodiments, the chip receiving mechanism 10 includes a chip tray 11, a support 12, a tray translation drive assembly 13, and a chip fixing assembly 14. The chip tray 11 is configured to support the microfluidic chip 80. The support 12 has a wedge-shaped surface inclined relative to a horizontal plane, and the chip tray 11 is movably disposed on the wedge-shaped surface, with the surface of the chip tray 11 parallel to the wedge-shaped surface. The wedge-shaped surface forms an acute angle with the horizontal plane, for example, 3° to 7°, preferably 5°, so that the microfluidic chip 80 supported by the chip tray 11 is also inclined relative to the horizontal plane.

[0136] A tray translation drive assembly 13 is disposed on the wedge-shaped surface and connected to the chip tray 11, configured to drive the chip tray 11 to translate in a direction parallel to the wedge-shaped surface. A chip fixing assembly 14 is disposed on the support 12 and configured to press the microfluidic chip 80 in the chip tray 11 into place.

[0137] The chip tray 11 may also include a touch switch 141 to indicate whether the microfluidic chip 80 has been pressed by the chip fixing assembly 14. In this embodiment, the chip tray 11 and the tray translation drive assembly 13 are mounted by a support 12 with a wedge-shaped surface, so that the microfluidic chip 80 is tilted relative to the horizontal plane. The tray translation drive assembly 13 allows the chip tray 11 to be translated between a position that facilitates the placement of the microfluidic chip 80 and a test position, and the chip fixing assembly 14 stabilizes the microfluidic chip 80 in the test position.

[0138] exist Figure 6 In this assembly, the tray translation drive component 13 may include a lead screw motor. The lead screw output end of the lead screw motor can mate with a slider with internal threads, and the chip tray 11 can be connected to the slider. The tray translation drive component 13 may also include a limit switch 131, a limit stop 132, a guide wheel 133, and a guide rail 134. The limit stop 132 may be fixedly connected to the slider or integrally formed, and, in cooperation with the limit switch 131, limits the extreme positions of the extension and retraction of the chip tray 11. The guide wheel 133 and the guide rail 134 are disposed between the chip tray 11 and the support 12 to realize the movement guidance and support functions of the chip tray 11.

[0139] exist Figure 7In addition, a vacuum chuck connector 526 can be provided on the support 12 for driving the air passage connecting the plunger pump 52 and the microfluidic chip 80 in the fluid drive mechanism 50. The vacuum chuck connector 526 has a quick-connect plug 525 that can quickly connect the air passage. The vacuum chuck connector 526 and the chip fixing assembly 14 can both be connected to the output end of the drive mechanism (e.g., DC geared motor 524) provided on the support 12, so that air passage connection and chip fixing can be achieved simultaneously after the microfluidic chip 80 is in place.

[0140] Figure 8 and Figure 9 These are exploded views of the chip tray, temperature control mechanism, and microfluidic chip assembly structure from different perspectives in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to this disclosure.

[0141] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device further includes a temperature control mechanism configured to at least control the temperature of the microfluidic chip 80; wherein the temperature control mechanism includes a main heating component 43 and an auxiliary heating component 44. The main heating component 43 is disposed on the chip tray 11 and configured to heat the lower surface of the microfluidic chip 80 to bring the microfluidic chip 80 to the reaction temperature.

[0142] The auxiliary heating component 44 can be disposed on the chip tray 11 or disposed independently of the chip tray 11. The auxiliary heating component 44 is configured to be disposed on the upper surface of the microfluidic chip 80 to achieve heat preservation of the microfluidic chip 80.

[0143] To ensure that the reaction in the microfluidic chip 80 takes place at a set temperature, the lower surface of the microfluidic chip 80 is heated by the main heating component 43, and the microfluidic chip 80 is kept warm by the auxiliary heating component 44 on the upper surface of the microfluidic chip 80 to prevent excessive temperature loss. For example, the main heating component 43 includes a heating metal block 431 (e.g., an aluminum block) that is in close contact with the lower surface of the microfluidic chip 80, which ensures good thermal conductivity between the main heating component 43 and the chip.

[0144] exist Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the process, the main heating assembly 43 may also include a temperature sensing element 432 (e.g., a temperature sensing resistor) and a heating element 433 (e.g., a heating resistance film) located below the heating metal block 431. The chip tray 11 may be provided with a recessed portion so that the heating metal block 431 and the heating element 433 can be embedded in the recessed portion.

[0145] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 5(e) In some embodiments, the auxiliary heating assembly 44 includes a PCB heating plate 441 having a closed or open cutout portion. The orthographic projection of the cutout portion onto the surface of the microfluidic chip 80 at least partially coincides with the orthographic projection of the reaction channel 82 onto the surface of the microfluidic chip 80. Figure 8 and Figure 9 In addition, the auxiliary heating assembly 44 may also include a temperature sensing element 442 (e.g., a temperature sensing resistor).

[0146] This embodiment can achieve heat preservation through the compact PCB heating plate 441, and expose at least a part of the reaction channel 82 through the cutout part on the PCB heating plate 441, thereby facilitating the image acquisition mechanism 41 to acquire the image of the reaction channel 82 through the cutout part, avoiding the difficulty in acquiring the image due to the PCB heating plate 441 blocking the reaction channel 82.

[0147] Figure 10 (a)-(c) are schematic diagrams showing the exploded structure, reaction channel and buffer channel of a microfluidic chip in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to the present disclosure. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the functional layer in the microfluidic chip according to some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device of this disclosure.

[0148] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip 80 has a solution inlet 861, a reaction channel 82 communicating with the solution inlet 861, and a waste liquid chamber 83 communicating with the reaction channel 82. The chip tray 11 can tilt the surface of the microfluidic chip 80 at a preset angle (e.g., 5°) relative to the horizontal plane, so that the communication position between the reaction channel 82 and the waste liquid chamber 83 is higher than other positions of the waste liquid chamber 83, and the communication position between the solution inlet 861 and the reaction channel 82 is lower than other positions of the reaction channel 82. In this way, the chip tray 11 receiving the microfluidic chip 80 can tilt the microfluidic chip 80 it is supporting relative to the horizontal plane, so that the waste liquid in the waste liquid chamber 83 is less likely to flow into the reaction channel 82 through the communication position and contaminate the reaction channel 82.

[0149] To accommodate the chip's tilt setting, refer to Figure 3In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device further includes an image acquisition mechanism 41 configured to acquire images of the reaction state of the microfluidic chip 80. The image acquisition mechanism 41 may include a camera or a webcam. The image acquisition mechanism 41 is connected to the position adjustment mechanism 60 via an inclined adapter, ensuring that the imaging surface of the image acquisition mechanism 41 is always parallel to the surface of the microfluidic chip 80. This connection between the image acquisition mechanism 41 and the position adjustment mechanism 60, ensuring that the imaging surface of the image acquisition mechanism 41 is always parallel to the surface of the microfluidic chip 80, makes the images acquired by the image acquisition mechanism 41 less prone to distortion due to angle.

[0150] refer to Figure 10 (a) In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip 80 includes: a base plate 84, a functional layer 85, a top plate 86, and a plurality of specific microsphere sensors 87. The functional layer 85 is disposed on the surface of the base plate 84 and has a reaction channel 82 and a waste liquid chamber 83 communicating with the reaction channel 82. The reaction channel 82 has a plurality of rotary shaped receiving cavities 821 arranged along the extending direction of the reaction channel 82. The top plate 86 covers the functional layer 85 and has a solution inlet 861 and a fluid drive port 862 penetrating the top plate 86. The solution inlet 861 is directly communicating with the reaction channel 82.

[0151] exist Figure 10 In (b), multiple specific microsphere sensors 87 are respectively disposed within the multiple rotary shaped cavities 821. The specific microsphere sensors 87 within the microfluidic chip 80 are coated with corresponding antigens. After a chemiluminescent enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), the detection results of the corresponding indicators are determined by collecting the fluorescence intensity of each specific microsphere sensor 87. Each specific microsphere sensor 87 has a corresponding rotary shaped cavity 821 to restrict its position. This restricts the position of the microsphere while avoiding mutual interference between microspheres of different indicators, ensuring that the microspheres are not compressed. The spherical shape of the microspheres allows for uniform and sufficient contact with the fluid, thereby enabling the reagents and microspheres to achieve a full and efficient biochemical reaction.

[0152] Microspheres, serving as solid-phase carriers for antigens or antibodies, ensure uniform surface reactions without creating dead volumes within channels that impede fluid flow. More importantly, the arc-shaped surface of the microspheres induces synergistic changes in flow velocity and pressure, increasing fluid turbulence and improving reagent-solid-phase carrier contact efficiency when using conventional fluid-driven equipment. Furthermore, the use of multiple specific microsphere sensors 87 coated with different antigens or antibodies allows for the simultaneous detection of multiple disease indicators on a single chip, effectively improving detection efficiency.

[0153] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 In some embodiments, a buffer channel 852 is provided between the reaction channel 82 and the waste liquid chamber 83, and at least a portion of the buffer channel 852 forms a predetermined angle with the reaction channel 82. The waste liquid chamber 83 can collect the waste liquid after the reaction, and the buffer channel 852 can buffer the reagents before they are discharged into the waste liquid chamber 83 after the reaction is completed, preventing unreacted reagents in the reaction channel 82 from directly entering the waste liquid chamber 83 under the action of fluid.

[0154] The portion of the buffer channel 852 that connects to the waste liquid chamber 83 also has an anti-deformation structure 853. The anti-deformation structure 853 is configured to maintain the consistency of the diameter of the buffer channel 852 during bonding of the functional layer 85 to the base plate 84. The anti-deformation structure 853 is located at the end of the buffer channel 852 primarily because, during the bonding of the microfluidic chip 80, the functional layer 85 is bonded to the base plate 84 first. Since maintaining the consistency of the diameter of the buffer channel 852 is often difficult during the bonding process, the anti-deformation structure 853 is used to avoid the problem of the buffer channel 852's diameter not effectively maintaining consistency during bonding. After bonding is completed, the anti-deformation structure 853 can be destroyed to prevent it from affecting the flow of waste liquid into the waste liquid chamber 83.

[0155] exist Figure 10 (a) and Figure 11 In the process, the functional layer 85 may further include a heat insulation groove 851. The heat insulation groove 851 is disposed on at least one side of the reaction channel 82, and the plurality of rotating body-shaped receiving cavities 821 are located within the range of the orthographic projection of the heat insulation groove 851 onto the reaction channel 82. The heat insulation groove 851 can reduce the outward diffusion of heat from the reaction channel 82, thereby reducing heat loss of the chip and allowing the temperature of the reaction channel 82 to reach the specified reaction temperature more quickly. The heat insulation groove 851 may contain air or other heat insulation media, or it may be configured as a vacuum.

[0156] refer to Figure 10 (a) and Figure 11 In some embodiments, the functional layer 85 further includes a baffle 854. The baffle 854 is located on the side of the waste liquid chamber 83 away from the reaction channel 82, forming a fluid driving chamber 855 communicating with the fluid driving port 862. One end of the fluid driving chamber 855 is separated from the waste liquid chamber 83, while the other end communicates with the waste liquid chamber 83. The baffle 854 prevents waste liquid in the waste liquid chamber 83 from entering the fluid driving mechanism 50 through the fluid driving port 862, thus preventing waste liquid from contaminating or corroding the interior of the fluid driving mechanism 50 and causing inaccurate fluid control.

[0157] Additionally, refer to Figure 10In some embodiments, the microfluidic chip 80 further includes a funnel-shaped solution receiving structure 81. The funnel-shaped solution receiving structure 81 is disposed on the side of the top plate 86 away from the bottom plate 84 and communicates with the solution inlet 861. This funnel-shaped solution receiving structure can more easily and efficiently receive the solution released from the pipette tip 31 and the solution mixture, and the solution within the chip can enter and exit the solution receiving structure under the driving action of the fluid drive mechanism 50.

[0158] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationship of the fluid drive mechanism in some embodiments of the microfluidic chip detection device according to this disclosure. (Reference) Figure 3 and Figure 12 In some embodiments, the fluid drive mechanism 50 includes a plunger pump 52 and a solenoid valve assembly 51. The plunger pump 52 can be fixedly mounted inside the housing 91 via brackets 522 and 523. The solenoid valve assembly 51 can be mounted inside the housing 91 and connected to the air passage of the plunger pump 52.

[0159] exist Figure 12 The solenoid valve assembly 51 includes a first solenoid valve 511, a second solenoid valve 512, a third solenoid valve 513, and a fourth solenoid valve 514. The first end of the first solenoid valve 511 is operably connected to the microfluidic chip 80 via an air passage. The first end of the second solenoid valve 512 is operably connected to the tip pickup mechanism 32 via an air passage. The first end of the third solenoid valve 513 is connected to the second ends of both the first solenoid valve 511 and the second solenoid valve 512 via air passages, and the second end of the third solenoid valve 513 is connected to the working port of the plunger pump 52 via an air passage. The first end of the fourth solenoid valve 514 is connected to the reset port of the plunger pump 52 via an air passage, and the second end of the fourth solenoid valve 514 is open to the atmosphere.

[0160] The multiple solenoid valves in the solenoid valve assembly 51 can form a gas path structure with the plunger pump 52, microfluidic chip 80, and pipette tip pickup mechanism 32. By controlling the opening and closing of the solenoid valves, the pipette tip 31 picked up by the pipette tip pickup mechanism 32 can aspirate and release the solution, and drive the flow of the solution within the microfluidic chip 80. The precise control of the fluid using the plunger pump 52 in conjunction with the solenoid valve assembly enables precise quantitative dispensing of reagents, thereby improving both reaction efficiency and detection accuracy.

[0161] In the above embodiments, the microfluidic chip detection device may include a power supply, a controller, and a host computer, wherein the power supply provides power to the device, the controller controls the various mechanisms, and the host computer can communicate with the controller to acquire data from the device and issue relevant instructions to the controller.

[0162] refer to Figures 1-12In addition to the aforementioned embodiments, the following describes the detection process using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for five indicators of eugenics and healthy reproduction as an example.

[0163] First, turn on the power of this microfluidic chip detection device and wait for the plunger pump, heating element, stepper motor, DC motor, camera and other components to complete their self-tests. Then, set various parameters such as reagent volume, number of washes, and heating status in the host computer. Finally, set the reagent solution container containing quantitative reagents, the pipette tip storage mechanism filled with pipette tips, and the sample solution container (e.g., a mixing centrifuge tube) containing the sample to be tested to the corresponding positions.

[0164] Clicking the operation button on the host computer (e.g., the virtual button indicating the start of the reaction) initiates temperature control and causes the tray translation drive component to extend the chip tray, thus removing it from the tray. After the operator places the microfluidic chip into the chip tray, clicking the operation button on the host computer (e.g., the virtual button indicating that the chip has been placed) causes the tray translation drive component to retract the chip tray, completing the loading process.

[0165] Move the vacuum chuck connector and chip holder assembly connected to the plunger pump toward the microfluidic chip, so that the chip holder assembly presses against the microfluidic chip and the vacuum chuck connector mates with the flow drive port of the microfluidic chip.

[0166] The operator can select the reaction steps as needed (the following example uses the full steps).

[0167] First, the relative positions of the tip pickup mechanism and the holder are adjusted using multiple directional adjustment components, allowing the tip pickup mechanism to pick up the first pipette tip from the tip storage mechanism. Then, the tip pickup mechanism inserts the pipette tip into the sample diluent container, and by operating the solenoid valve assembly, the diluent is drawn into the pipette tip. Next, the pipette tip is positioned in the sample solution container, and the solenoid valve assembly releases the diluent into the sample solution container, thus mixing the sample and the diluent to form the sample solution.

[0168] Then, the sample solution is drawn into the pipette tip by operating the solenoid valve assembly, and then positioned to the solution receiving structure of the microfluidic chip. Operating the solenoid valve assembly again causes the pipette tip to discharge the sample solution into the solution receiving structure. A plunger pump then controls the fluid flow of the microfluidic chip, driving the sample solution into the location of the specific microsphere sensor for reaction. To accelerate the reaction, the plunger pump can be micro-driven to make the sample solution move back and forth in minute motions. After the reaction is complete, the plunger pump drives the waste liquid to be discharged into the waste liquid chamber, where it is absorbed by an absorbent material.

[0169] Next, the relative positions of the tip pickup mechanism and the holder are adjusted using multiple directional adjustment components, causing the pipette tip to detach into the housing. Then, all directional adjustment components are reset. This completes the first step.

[0170] Subsequent steps utilize multiple directional adjustment components and fluid drive mechanisms to achieve the picking up, moving, and detaching of the pipette tip, solution absorption and release, and fluid drive of the solution within the microfluidic chip.

[0171] In these steps, the reaction channels of the microfluidic chip are cleaned with a cleaning solution. At this time, a plunger pump can be used to pump the cleaning solution out of the reaction channels and then discharge it to the solution receiving structure. Then it is drawn back into the reaction channels for cleaning. This process is repeated multiple times (e.g., three times) to complete the cleaning.

[0172] Next, a quantitative amount of enzyme-labeled antibody solution was pipetted into the microfluidic chip. After the enzyme-labeled antibody solution reacted, it was drained into the waste chamber. Then, using new pipette tips, the two excitation solutions were pipetted into the microfluidic chip twice. Through multiple pipetting operations, the two excitation solutions were allowed to enter the reaction channel and mix thoroughly.

[0173] Finally, by pointing the camera at the specific microsphere sensor of the microfluidic chip, the chemiluminescence intensity is stored as image grayscale data in the host computer. The host computer analyzes and displays the detection results and automatically saves the data. The detection process is now complete. The operator can choose whether to cool the device internally. If cooling is required, the chip tray will pop out, and the internal fan will run for a period of time to circulate the air inside the device with the outside air, reducing the internal temperature to ambient temperature. This achieves a fully automated detection process for five indicators of optimal reproductive health.

[0174] The embodiments of this disclosure have now been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concept of this disclosure, some details known in the art have not been described. Those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solutions disclosed herein based on the above description.

[0175] While specific embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the examples are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments or equivalent substitutions can be made to some technical features without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A microfluidic chip detection device, characterized in that, The chip receiving mechanism (10) is configured to receive a microfluidic chip (80). A plurality of solution storage mechanisms (20) are respectively configured to store a plurality of solutions. A tip storage mechanism (30) is configured to store a plurality of pipette tips (31) to be used. A tip pickup mechanism (32) is configured to pick up a pipette tip (31) from the tip pickup mechanism (32). A fluid driving mechanism (50) is in communication with the tip pickup mechanism (32) and is configured to suck and release solutions through the pipette tip (31) picked up by the tip pickup mechanism (32), and to realize the flow of solutions in the microfluidic chip (80) through communication with the microfluidic chip (80). A position adjustment mechanism (60) is connected with the tip pickup mechanism (32) and is configured to adjust the position of the tip pickup mechanism (32) relative to the tip storage mechanism (30), the plurality of solution storage mechanisms (20), and the chip receiving mechanism (10). And The waste tip collection mechanism includes a box body (71) having an internal cavity and an upper insertion opening (711) in direct communication with the internal cavity. The position adjustment mechanism (60) is further configured to adjust the tip pickup mechanism (32) above the waste tip collection mechanism, so that the pipette tip (31) currently picked up and used by the tip pickup mechanism (32) is inserted from top to bottom into the upper insertion opening (711), and the pipette tip (31) is shaken to collide with the edge of the upper insertion opening (711), so that the connection between the pipette tip (31) and the tip pickup mechanism (32) is loosened, so that the pipette tip (31) falls off from the tip pickup mechanism (32) and enters the waste tip collection mechanism. The tip pickup mechanism (32) is configured to pick up different pipette tips (31) for solution suction when the fluid driving mechanism (50) drives the pipette tips (31) to suck solutions in the plurality of solution storage mechanisms (20), respectively.

2. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of solution storage mechanisms (20) includes:

3. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 1, wherein, A sample solution container (21) configured to store a sample solution mixed with a sample to be tested or a sample to be tested capable of mixing with a reagent solution to form a sample solution; At least one reagent solution container configured to store at least one reagent solution for detection, respectively; The position adjustment mechanism (60) is configured to adjust the tip pickup mechanism (32) above the tip storage mechanism (30) so that the tip pickup mechanism (32) picks up a pipette tip (31), and adjust the tip pickup mechanism (32) above the sample solution container (21), the chip receiving mechanism (10), and / or the at least one reagent solution container, so that the fluid driving mechanism (50) sucks or releases the sample solution or the at least one reagent solution through the pipette tip (31). The at least one reagent solution container includes:

4. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 3, wherein, ​ a sample diluent container (22) configured to store a diluent for mixing a diluted sample; wherein the position adjusting mechanism (60) is further configured to adjust the pipette tip pickup mechanism (32) above the sample diluent container (22) so that the fluid driving mechanism (50) sucks the diluent through the pipette tip (31), then adjust the pipette tip pickup mechanism (32) above the sample solution container (21) so that the fluid driving mechanism (50) releases the diluent through the pipette tip (31) into the sample solution container (21) to mix with the sample to be tested to form a sample solution, and then adjust the pipette tip pickup mechanism (32) above the chip receiving mechanism (10) so that the fluid driving mechanism (50) releases the sample solution through the pipette tip (31) to the microfluidic chip (80) and drives the sample solution to flow in the microfluidic chip (80).

5. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The at least one reagent solution container includes: an enzyme-labeled antibody solution container (23) configured to store an enzyme-labeled antibody solution; a washing solution container (24) configured to store a washing solution for washing the microfluidic chip (80); and an excitation solution container (25) configured to store an excitation solution; wherein the position adjusting mechanism (60) is further configured to adjust the pipette tip pickup mechanism (32) above the enzyme-labeled antibody solution container (23), the washing solution container (24), and the excitation solution container (25) in a predetermined order so that the fluid driving mechanism (50) sucks the solution in the corresponding container through the pipette tip (31), and adjust the pipette tip pickup mechanism (32) above the chip receiving mechanism (10) so that the fluid driving mechanism (50) drives the sucked solution in the pipette tip (31) to be released to the microfluidic chip (80) and flow in the microfluidic chip (80).

6. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 1, wherein, Further comprising: a bracket (61) having a supporting surface, wherein the plurality of solution storage mechanisms (20) and the pipette tip storage mechanism (30) are both disposed on the supporting surface; wherein the position adjusting mechanism (60) includes: a first direction adjusting assembly (62) operably connected with the pipette tip pickup mechanism (32) and configured to adjust the position of the pipette tip pickup mechanism (32) in a first direction; a second direction adjusting assembly (63) operably connected with the bracket (61) and configured to adjust the position of the bracket (61) in a second direction; a third direction adjusting assembly (64) operably connected with the pipette tip pickup mechanism (32) and configured to adjust the position of the pipette tip pickup mechanism (32) in a third direction; wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

7. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 6, characterized in that, Further comprising: a waste pipette tip collection mechanism configured to collect waste pipette tips; wherein the waste pipette tip collection mechanism includes: A box body (71) has an internal cavity and an upper insertion opening (711) directly communicating with the internal cavity, and is fixedly connected with the bracket (61); A drawer (72) is removably arranged on the bracket (61) and below the box body (71) to receive the discarded bullet tips falling from the internal cavity of the box body (71).

8. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 1, wherein, The microfluidic chip (80) has a solution inlet (861), a reaction flow channel (82) communicating with the solution inlet (861), and a waste liquid chamber (83) communicating with the reaction flow channel (82), and the chip receiving mechanism (10) comprises: A chip tray (11) is configured to support the microfluidic chip (80) and tilt the surface of the microfluidic chip (80) by a preset angle relative to the horizontal plane, so that the communication position of the reaction flow channel (82) with the waste liquid chamber (83) is higher than other positions of the waste liquid chamber (83), and the communication position of the solution inlet (861) with the reaction flow channel (82) is lower than other positions of the reaction flow channel (82).

9. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 8, wherein, Further comprising: An image acquisition mechanism (41) configured to acquire images of the reaction state of the microfluidic chip (80); Wherein the image acquisition mechanism (41) is connected with the position adjustment mechanism (60) through an inclined adapter, so that the shooting surface of the image acquisition mechanism (41) is always parallel to the surface of the microfluidic chip (80).

10. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 8, characterized in that, Further comprising: A temperature control mechanism configured to at least control the temperature of the microfluidic chip (80); wherein the temperature control mechanism comprises: A main heating component (43) arranged on the chip tray (11) and configured to heat the lower surface of the microfluidic chip (80) to make the microfluidic chip (80) reach the reaction temperature; An auxiliary heating component (44) configured to be arranged on the upper surface of the microfluidic chip (80) to realize the heat preservation of the microfluidic chip (80).

11. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 10, wherein, The auxiliary heating component (44) comprises: A PCB heating plate (441) having a closed or non-closed hollow portion; Wherein the orthogonal projection of the hollow portion on the surface of the microfluidic chip (80) at least partially coincides with the orthogonal projection of the reaction flow channel (82) on the surface of the microfluidic chip (80).

12. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 1, wherein, The microfluidic chip (80) comprises: A bottom plate (84); A functional layer (85) arranged on the surface of the bottom plate (84) and having a reaction flow channel (82) and a waste liquid chamber (83) communicating with the reaction flow channel (82), the reaction flow channel (82) having a plurality of revolution body-shaped accommodation cavities (821) arranged along the extension direction of the reaction flow channel (82); A top plate (86) covering the functional layer (85) and having a solution inlet (861) and a fluid driving port (862) penetrating through the top plate (86), the solution inlet (861) directly communicating with the reaction flow channel (82); A plurality of specific microsphere sensors (87) respectively arranged in the plurality of revolution body-shaped accommodation cavities (821).

13. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 12, wherein, The functional layer (85) further comprises: A heat insulation groove (851) is arranged at least on one side of the reaction flow channel (82), and the plurality of rotary body-shaped accommodating cavities (821) are located within the range of the orthographic projection of the heat insulation groove (851) on the reaction flow channel (82).

14. The microfluidic chip detection device according to claim 12, wherein, A buffer flow channel (852) is arranged between the reaction flow channel (82) and the waste liquid cavity (83), at least a part of the buffer flow channel (852) is at a preset angle with the reaction flow channel (82), and the part where the buffer flow channel (852) is connected with the waste liquid cavity (83) is also provided with a deformation prevention structure (853) configured to maintain the consistency of the caliber of the buffer flow channel (852) when the functional layer (85) is bonded with the bottom plate (84).

15. The microfluidic chip detection device of claim 12, wherein, The functional layer (85) further comprises: A baffle (854) is arranged on the side of the waste liquid cavity (83) away from the reaction flow channel (82) to form a fluid driving cavity (855) in communication with the fluid driving port (862), and one end of the fluid driving cavity (855) is separated from the waste liquid cavity (83) and the other end is in communication with the waste liquid cavity (83).

Images