A fixing tool for microfluidic chip

Abstract

The application provides a fixing tool for a micro-fluidic chip, comprising a first mounting plate, a second mounting plate, a first elastic sealing gasket, a second elastic sealing gasket and a detection unit; a first recess is arranged on the first mounting plate; a plurality of first openings are arranged on the bottom surface of the first recess; a plurality of second openings are arranged on the side of the second mounting plate facing the micro-fluidic chip; the first elastic sealing gasket is mounted in the first opening, and the second elastic sealing gasket is mounted in the second opening; the first conductor, the second conductor and the first prompt lamp are arranged on the connecting circuit. One technical effect of the application is that the design is reasonable, which not only effectively avoids liquid or gas leakage of the micro-fluidic chip and has good sealing performance, but also can check whether the thickness of the micro-fluidic chip is in the preset range, thereby effectively avoiding the occurrence of liquid or gas leakage when the fixing tool fixes the micro-fluidic chip that is too thick, and the safety is good.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of microfluidic chip technology, specifically relating to a fixture for fixing microfluidic chips. Background Technology

[0002] Microfluidics is a relatively new technology that has emerged in recent years. It miniaturizes the basic operational units of biological, chemical, and medical analysis processes, such as sample preparation, reaction, separation, and detection, to the micrometer scale and integrates them onto chips a few centimeters or even smaller, automating the entire process of reaction and separation. Because this technology can significantly reduce the consumption of materials and reagents, it has attracted increasing attention in fields such as medicine and the environment.

[0003] Microfluidic chips utilize microfabrication technology to create tiny grooves on the surface of sheet materials such as glass and plastic. These grooves are then sealed using chip bonding to form microchannels, within which cell sorting and biochemical reactions can take place. The microfluidic chip also features inlets and outlets for these channels, allowing reagents to enter and exit. The dimensions of these microchannels are typically tens or hundreds of micrometers, with inlet and outlet diameters usually only one or two millimeters—roughly equivalent to the inner diameter of a syringe needle. Due to the small size of the microchannel inlets and outlets, installing and disassembling the liquid tubing of a microfluidic chip becomes quite complex, typically requiring careful handling by skilled operators. Furthermore, if there are many microchannels, installing and disassembling the liquid tubing becomes extremely complex, and maintaining a tight seal between the microchannel inlets and outlets and the liquid tubing is not easy. For example, during microfluidic chip experiments, especially when the microfluidic chip is moved or the reagent flow rate within it is too fast, leakage can easily occur, affecting the experimental results.

[0004] Furthermore, many microfluidic chip applications incorporate structures such as elastic films within the microchannels. By utilizing air pressure to deform these films, the opening and closing of the microchannels can be controlled, enabling complex microfluidic chip operations through pneumatic control. This necessitates connecting the microfluidic chip not only to the aforementioned liquid channels but also to gas channels. Moreover, the first microchannel carrying liquid and the second microchannel carrying gas are typically fabricated with grooves on two different sheet materials, then bonded together to form a complete microchannel system. These channels are distributed across different layers of the microfluidic chip, with the inlets and outlets of the first and second microchannels usually located on opposite sides of the chip. This necessitates flipping the microfluidic chip during assembly of the gas and liquid channels, increasing assembly difficulty and increasing the risk of gas-liquid leakage, thus affecting experimental results.

[0005] To address the aforementioned common problems in current microfluidic chip applications, there is an urgent need to develop a fixture for microfluidic chips. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art, and to provide a new technical solution for fixing fixtures for microfluidic chips.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a fixture for fixing a microfluidic chip is provided, comprising:

[0008] A first mounting plate and a second mounting plate are provided. The first mounting plate is provided with a first groove for accommodating a microfluidic chip. The second mounting plate is disposed above the first mounting plate, and the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate cooperate to press the microfluidic chip into the first groove. The bottom surface of the first groove is provided with a plurality of first openings, each of which corresponds to the inlet or outlet of a gas microchannel on the first surface of the microfluidic chip. The side of the second mounting plate facing the microfluidic chip is provided with a plurality of second openings, each of which corresponds to the inlet or outlet of a liquid microchannel on the second surface of the microfluidic chip.

[0009] A first elastic sealing gasket and a second elastic sealing gasket are provided, wherein the first elastic sealing gasket is installed in the first opening and the second elastic sealing gasket is installed in the second opening; the first elastic sealing gasket is provided with a first through hole and the second elastic sealing gasket is provided with a second through hole.

[0010] The detection unit includes a first conductor, a second conductor, a connecting circuit, and a first indicator light. The connecting circuit is provided with the first conductor, the second conductor, and the first indicator light. The first conductor is disposed on the upper surface of the first mounting plate, and a first detection hole is disposed on the second mounting plate at a position corresponding to the first conductor. The second conductor is disposed at a preset depth in the first detection hole. When the first conductor is embedded in the first detection hole and the first conductor and the second conductor are in contact, the connecting circuit is turned on, and the first indicator light is illuminated.

[0011] When a microfluidic chip with a preset thickness is pressed into the first groove, the first elastic sealing gasket seals the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel, so that the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel is connected to the first through hole; the second elastic sealing gasket seals the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel, so that the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel is connected to the second through hole; at the same time, the connection circuit is turned on.

[0012] Optionally, the detection unit further includes a third conductor, a conductive metal sheet, and a second indicator light;

[0013] The third conductor, the conductive metal sheet, and the second indicator light are disposed in the connection circuit. A second detection hole is provided on the bottom surface of the first groove. A first elastic sealing gasket is installed in the second detection hole, and the third conductor is installed in the first through hole of the first elastic sealing gasket. A preset distance is formed between the end face of the third conductor and the surface of the first elastic sealing gasket. Compressing the first elastic sealing gasket can make the end face of the third conductor flush with the surface of the first elastic sealing gasket. The conductive metal sheet is disposed at the position corresponding to the third conductor in the microfluidic chip.

[0014] When the microfluidic chip is pressed into the first groove, the microfluidic chip compresses the first elastic sealing pad to deform it. When the deformation of the first elastic sealing pad reaches a predetermined deformation amount, the third conductor contacts the conductive metal sheet, the connection circuit is turned on, and the second indicator light is lit.

[0015] Optionally, the fixture for fixing the microfluidic chip may also include a base plate and a temperature control unit;

[0016] The upper surface of the base plate is provided with a second groove, and the middle of the second groove is provided with a first through hole extending to the lower surface of the base plate; the first mounting plate is embedded in the second groove; the middle of the bottom surface of the first groove is provided with a second through hole communicating with the first through hole, and a plurality of first openings are arranged around the second through hole; the projection of the first through hole on the first mounting plate covers the first opening and the second through hole;

[0017] The temperature control unit can pass through the first through hole and the second through hole in sequence to contact the microfluidic chip in order to heat or cool the microfluidic chip.

[0018] Optionally, the temperature control unit includes a temperature control element, a metal adapter block, and a temperature sensor;

[0019] One side of the metal adapter block is attached to the temperature control element, and the other side is attached to the microfluidic chip. The temperature control element heats or cools the microfluidic chip through the metal adapter block. The temperature sensor is disposed in the second through hole and can be attached to the microfluidic chip to measure the temperature of the microfluidic chip.

[0020] When the temperature of the microfluidic chip reaches the preset temperature, the temperature control element is turned off to stop heating or cooling the microfluidic chip.

[0021] Optionally, the fixture for securing the microfluidic chip may also include a cover plate;

[0022] The cover plate is disposed on the side of the second mounting plate away from the first mounting plate. The cover plate is fastened to the base plate, and the microfluidic chip is pressed into the first groove by the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate.

[0023] Optionally, the fixture for fixing the microfluidic chip also includes a locking unit, which is disposed on the side of the cover plate and rotatably connected to the cover plate, and the locking unit is provided with a locking slot;

[0024] Rotate the locking unit to engage the base plate with the locking slot of the locking unit.

[0025] Optionally, when the first elastic sealing gasket is installed in the first opening, the surface of the first elastic sealing gasket protrudes beyond the bottom surface of the first groove; when the second elastic sealing gasket is installed in the second opening, the surface of the second elastic sealing gasket protrudes beyond the surface of the second mounting plate.

[0026] When the microfluidic chip is pressed into the first groove, the microfluidic chip compresses the first elastic sealing gasket so that the first elastic sealing gasket seals the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel; at the same time, the microfluidic chip compresses the second elastic sealing gasket so that the second elastic sealing gasket seals the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel.

[0027] Optionally, the second mounting plate is provided with an observation window, and second openings are distributed around the observation window, through which the microfluidic chip can be observed.

[0028] Optionally, the cover plate is provided with a third through hole, and a portion of the second mounting plate is embedded in the third through hole;

[0029] The projection of the third through hole onto the surface of the second mounting plate covers the second opening and the observation window.

[0030] Optionally, the fixture for fixing the microfluidic chip may also include gas lines and liquid lines;

[0031] One end of the gas pipeline is detachably connected to the end of the first opening away from the microfluidic chip; one end of the liquid pipeline is detachably connected to the end of the second opening away from the microfluidic chip.

[0032] One technical advantage of this invention is that:

[0033] In this embodiment, when the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate cooperate to press the microfluidic chip into the first groove, the first elastic sealing gasket seals the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel, making the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel communicate with the first through hole; the second elastic sealing gasket seals the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel, making the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel communicate with the second through hole. This allows the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel of the microfluidic chip to be quickly and stably connected to the gas pipeline through the first elastic sealing gasket and the first mounting plate; simultaneously, it allows the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel of the microfluidic chip to be quickly and stably connected to the liquid pipeline through the second elastic sealing gasket and the second mounting plate. This not only makes the operation very simple and convenient, but also effectively avoids leakage of liquid from the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel and gas from the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel, resulting in good sealing and effectively ensuring experimental results.

[0034] Furthermore, the detection unit can effectively detect whether the thickness of the microfluidic chip meets the preset range. When the thickness of the microfluidic chip is large, when the second mounting plate presses the microfluidic chip, the first conductor on the first mounting plate, embedded in the first detection hole, cannot contact the second conductor, the connection circuit cannot be connected, and the first indicator light cannot be lit. This effectively avoids air or liquid leakage caused by poor sealing when the thick microfluidic chip is pressed into the first groove, ensuring the safety of the experimental process. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is an exploded structural diagram of a microfluidic chip fixing fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the base plate of a microfluidic chip fixing fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first mounting plate of a microfluidic chip fixing fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second mounting plate of a microfluidic chip fixing fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the cover plate of a microfluidic chip fixing fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first and second elastic sealing pads of a microfluidic chip fixing fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 7This is a circuit connection diagram of the detection unit of a microfluidic chip fixing fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] In the diagram: 1. First mounting plate; 11. First groove; 12. First opening; 13. Second through hole; 2. Second mounting plate; 21. Second opening; 22. Observation window; 31. First elastic sealing gasket; 311. First through hole; 32. Second elastic sealing gasket; 321. Second through hole; 41. First conductor; 42. Second conductor; 43. Connecting circuit; 44. First indicator light; 45. Third conductor; 46. Conductive metal sheet; 47. Second indicator light; 5. Base plate; 51. Second groove; 52. First through hole; 6. Temperature control unit; 7. Cover plate; 71. Third through hole; 8. Locking unit; 81. Locking opening; 9. Microfluidic chip. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Various exemplary embodiments of the present application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the present application.

[0044] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail. Examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0045] The terms "first" and "second" in the specification and claims of this application may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more. Furthermore, "and / or" in the specification and claims indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0046] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0047] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0048] See Figures 1 to 7 According to one aspect of the present invention, a fixture for fixing a microfluidic chip 9 is provided, which is used to quickly fix the microfluidic chip 9. At the same time, it can quickly connect a gas pipeline to the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel of the microfluidic chip 9 through a first opening 12, and can quickly connect a liquid pipeline to the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel of the microfluidic chip 9 through a second opening 21. The operation is simple, quickly improves the assembly efficiency of the gas pipeline and liquid pipeline of the microfluidic chip 9, significantly improves the sealing performance of the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel and the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel, and ensures the safety of the experimental process.

[0049] Specifically, the fixture for the microfluidic chip 9 includes:

[0050] First mounting plate 1 and second mounting plate 2, see... Figure 3 and Figure 4The first mounting plate 1 is provided with a first groove 11 for accommodating the microfluidic chip 9. The second mounting plate 2 is disposed above the first mounting plate 1, and the first mounting plate 1 and the second mounting plate 2 cooperate to press the microfluidic chip 9 into the first groove 11. The bottom surface of the first groove 11 is provided with a plurality of first openings 12, each of which corresponds to the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel on the first surface of the microfluidic chip 9. The second mounting plate 2 is provided with a plurality of second openings 21 on the side facing the microfluidic chip 9, each of which corresponds to the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel on the second surface of the microfluidic chip 9. The first mounting plate 1 and the second mounting plate 2 can be aluminum alloy, stainless steel or other mechanically machinable rigid materials.

[0051] First elastic sealing gasket 31 and second elastic sealing gasket 32, see Figure 6 The first elastic sealing gasket 31 is installed in the first opening 12, and the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​is installed in the second opening 21; the first elastic sealing gasket 31 is provided with a first through hole 311, and the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​is provided with a second through hole 321; wherein, the first elastic sealing gasket 31 and the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​can be silicone or other elastic materials that do not react with the reagents used in the experiment of microfluidic chip 9.

[0052] The detection unit includes a first conductor 41, a second conductor 42, a connection circuit 43, and a first indicator light 44. The connection circuit 43 is equipped with the first conductor 41, the second conductor 42, and the first indicator light 44. The first conductor 41 is disposed on the upper surface of the first mounting plate 1. A first detection hole is disposed on the second mounting plate 2 at a position corresponding to the first conductor 41. The second conductor 42 is disposed at a preset depth within the first detection hole. When the thickness of the microfluidic chip 9 is large, the second mounting plate 2 will detect the first conductor 42 when pressing the microfluidic chip 9. When the first conductor 41 on the mounting plate 1 is embedded in the first detection hole, it cannot contact the second conductor 42. This prevents the connection circuit 43 from conducting and the first indicator light 44 from illuminating, thus prompting the operator that the microfluidic chip 9 is too thick and unsuitable for fixing to the fixture. This effectively prevents the experiment from being disrupted due to leakage of liquid or gas from the microfluidic chip 9 during subsequent experiments. When the first conductor 41 is embedded in the first detection hole and the first conductor 41 and the second conductor 42 are in contact, the connection circuit 43 conducts and the first indicator light 44 illuminates.

[0053] When the microfluidic chip 9 with a preset thickness is pressed into the first groove 11, the first elastic sealing gasket 31 seals the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel, so that the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel is connected to the first through hole 311; the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​seals the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel, so that the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel is connected to the second through hole 321; at the same time, the connection circuit 43 is turned on, and the first indicator light 44 is lit to remind the operator.

[0054] In this embodiment, when the first mounting plate 1 and the second mounting plate 2 cooperate to press the microfluidic chip 9 into the first groove 11, the first elastic sealing gasket 31 seals the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel, making the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel connected to the first through hole 311; the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​seals the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel, making the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel connected to the second through hole 321. This allows the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel of the microfluidic chip 9 to be quickly and stably connected to the gas pipeline through the first elastic sealing gasket 31 and the first mounting plate 1; at the same time, it allows the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel of the microfluidic chip 9 to be quickly and stably connected to the liquid pipeline through the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​and the second mounting plate 2. This not only makes the operation very simple and convenient, but also effectively avoids leakage of liquid at the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel and leakage of gas at the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel, resulting in good sealing and effectively ensuring the experimental results.

[0055] Furthermore, the detection unit can effectively detect whether the thickness of the microfluidic chip 9 meets the preset range. When the thickness of the microfluidic chip 9 is large, when the second mounting plate 2 presses the microfluidic chip 9, the first conductor 41 on the first mounting plate 1 is embedded in the first detection hole and cannot contact the second conductor 42, the connection circuit 43 cannot be connected, and the first indicator light 44 cannot be lit. This effectively avoids the occurrence of air or liquid leakage due to poor sealing when the thick microfluidic chip 9 is pressed into the first groove 11, ensuring the safety of the experimental process.

[0056] Optionally, see Figure 7 The detection unit also includes a third conductor 45, a conductive metal sheet 46, and a second indicator light 47;

[0057] The third conductor 45, the conductive metal sheet 46, and the second indicator light 47 are disposed on the connection circuit 43. A second detection hole is provided on the bottom surface of the first groove 11. A first elastic sealing gasket 31 is installed in the second detection hole, and the third conductor 45 is installed in the first through hole 311 of the first elastic sealing gasket 31. A preset distance is formed between the end face of the third conductor 45 and the surface of the first elastic sealing gasket 31. Compressing the first elastic sealing gasket 31 can make the end face of the third conductor 45 flush with the surface of the first elastic sealing gasket 31. The conductive metal sheet 46 is disposed at the position corresponding to the third conductor 45 in the microfluidic chip 9.

[0058] When the microfluidic chip 9 is pressed into the first groove 11, the microfluidic chip 9 compresses the first elastic sealing pad 31 to deform it. When the deformation of the first elastic sealing pad 31 reaches a predetermined deformation, the third conductor 45 contacts the conductive metal sheet 46, the connection circuit 43 is turned on, and the second indicator light 47 is lit.

[0059] In the above embodiment, if the thickness of the microfluidic chip 9 is small, when the second mounting plate 2 presses the microfluidic chip 9, due to the obstruction of the upper surface of the first mounting plate 1 to the second mounting plate 2, the microfluidic chip 9 cannot compress the first elastic sealing pad 31 to cause the elastic sealing pad to undergo a predetermined deformation. As a result, the third conductor 45 in the first elastic sealing pad 31 does not contact the conductive metal sheet 46 on the surface of the microfluidic chip 9, the connection circuit 43 is not conductive, and the second indicator light 47 is not lit. This can indicate to the operator that the thickness of the microfluidic chip 9 is small and it is not suitable for fixing to the fixture. This can effectively prevent the experimental process from being disrupted due to leakage of liquid or gas from the microfluidic chip 9 in subsequent experiments, and ensure the safety of the experimental process.

[0060] Therefore, the microfluidic chip 9 fixing fixture provided in this application can effectively fix the microfluidic chip 9 within a preset thickness range, and can quickly connect gas and liquid pipelines, ensuring the sealing of each inlet or outlet of the microfluidic chip 9, thus improving the safety and effectiveness of the experimental process. Furthermore, when the thickness of the microfluidic chip 9 is large or small, to avoid leakage during subsequent experiments, the operator is alerted during installation of the microfluidic chip 9, which improves experimental efficiency and better ensures the safety of the experimental process, avoiding the risk of experimental failure due to leakage and significantly improving the reliability of the experimental process.

[0061] Optionally, see Figure 2 The fixture for fixing the microfluidic chip 9 also includes a base plate 5 and a temperature control unit 6;

[0062] The upper surface of the base plate 5 is provided with a second groove 51, and the middle of the second groove 51 is provided with a first through hole 52 extending to the lower surface of the base plate 5; the first mounting plate 1 is embedded in the second groove 51; the middle of the bottom surface of the first groove 11 is provided with a second through hole 13 communicating with the first through hole 52, and a plurality of first openings 12 are arranged around the second through hole 13; the projection of the first through hole 52 on the first mounting plate 1 covers the first opening 12 and the second through hole 13;

[0063] The temperature control unit 6 can pass through the first through hole 52 and the second through hole 13 in sequence to contact the microfluidic chip 9 in order to heat or cool the microfluidic chip 9.

[0064] In the above embodiment, the temperature control unit 6 can heat or cool the microfluidic chip 9 to ensure that some biochemical reactions in the microfluidic chip 9 proceed smoothly. Simultaneously, the first through-hole 52 and the second through-hole 13 allow the microfluidic chip 9 to be in close contact with the temperature control unit 6 to ensure effective heat transfer.

[0065] Optionally, the temperature control unit 6 includes a temperature control element, a metal adapter block, and a temperature sensor;

[0066] One side of the metal adapter block is attached to the temperature control element, and the other side is attached to the microfluidic chip 9. The temperature control element heats or cools the microfluidic chip 9 through the metal adapter block. The temperature sensor is disposed in the second through hole 13 and can be attached to the microfluidic chip 9 to measure the temperature of the microfluidic chip 9.

[0067] When the temperature of the microfluidic chip 9 reaches the preset temperature, the temperature control element is turned off to stop heating or cooling the microfluidic chip 9.

[0068] In the above embodiments, the temperature sensor can accurately measure the temperature of the microfluidic chip 9. By turning the temperature control element on or off, the microfluidic chip 9 is kept at the preset temperature, ensuring the stability of the experimental process and thus ensuring the experimental results. At the same time, the metal adapter block can effectively protect the microfluidic chip 9, preventing the temperature control element from directly heating or cooling the microfluidic chip 9.

[0069] For example, a control valve is installed on the temperature control element, and the control valve and temperature sensor are respectively connected to the controller. When the temperature sensor detects that the temperature of the microfluidic chip 9 has reached the preset temperature, the controller controls the control valve to close, thereby shutting down the temperature control element. The operation is simple and helps the microfluidic chip 9 maintain an optimal experimental temperature, ensuring experimental results.

[0070] Optionally, see Figure 5 The fixture for fixing the microfluidic chip 9 also includes a cover plate 7;

[0071] The cover plate 7 is disposed on the side of the second mounting plate 2 away from the first mounting plate 1. The cover plate 7 is fastened to the bottom plate 5, and the microfluidic chip 9 is pressed into the first groove 11 by the first mounting plate 1 and the second mounting plate 2.

[0072] In the above embodiment, by fastening the cover plate 7 to the base plate 5, the second mounting plate 2 can be firmly locked onto the first mounting plate 1, thereby pressing the microfluidic chip 9 into the first groove 11. The operation is simple and helps to ensure the sealing effect of the first elastic sealing gasket 31 on the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel, and also helps to ensure the sealing effect of the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​on the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel.

[0073] Optionally, the fixture for fixing the microfluidic chip 9 also includes a locking unit 8, which is disposed on the side of the cover plate 7 and rotatably connected to the cover plate 7, and the locking unit 8 is provided with a locking slot 81.

[0074] Rotate the locking unit 8 so that the base plate 5 is engaged with the locking slot 81 of the locking unit 8.

[0075] In the above embodiment, the locking unit 8 can quickly and firmly fasten the cover plate 7 to the base plate 5. The operation is simple and helps to ensure the pressing effect between the second mounting plate 2 and the first mounting plate 1, thereby pressing the microfluidic chip 9 into the first groove 11.

[0076] Optionally, when the first elastic sealing gasket 31 is installed in the first opening 12, the surface of the first elastic sealing gasket 31 protrudes from the bottom surface of the first groove 11; when the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​is installed in the second opening 21, the surface of the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​protrudes from the surface of the second mounting plate 2.

[0077] When the microfluidic chip 9 is pressed into the first groove 11, the microfluidic chip 9 compresses the first elastic sealing gasket 31 so that the first elastic sealing gasket 31 seals the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel; at the same time, the microfluidic chip 9 compresses the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​so that the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​seals the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel.

[0078] In the above embodiment, when the microfluidic chip 9 is pressed into the first groove 11, the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel is sealed by the deformation of the first elastic sealing gasket 31, and the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel is sealed by the deformation of the second elastic sealing gasket 32, thus ensuring the sealing effect of each inlet or outlet of the microfluidic chip 9 and ensuring the smooth progress of the experiment.

[0079] In one specific embodiment, the first opening 12 matches the first elastic sealing gasket 31, which can be embedded in the first opening 12, with the flat end of the first elastic sealing gasket 31 slightly higher than the first mounting plate 1. Simultaneously, the second opening 21 matches the second elastic sealing gasket 32, which can be embedded in the second opening 21, with the flat end of the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​slightly higher than the second mounting plate 2. When the locking unit 8 quickly locks the cover plate 7 and the base plate 5, the first and second elastic sealing gaskets 31 and 32 are compressed under pressure. After compression, the flat surface of the first elastic sealing gasket 31 is flush with the surface of the first mounting plate 1, and the flat surface of the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​is flush with the surface of the second mounting plate 2. This ensures the sealing of the microfluidic chip 9 and prevents deformation of the microfluidic chip 9 due to localized stress.

[0080] Optionally, the second mounting plate 2 is provided with an observation window 22, and second openings 21 are distributed around the observation window 22, through which the microfluidic chip 9 can be observed. The observation window 22 helps the operator to observe the microfluidic chip 9 in real time, thereby facilitating the smooth progress of the experiment and ensuring better experimental results.

[0081] Optionally, the cover plate 7 is provided with a third through hole 71, and a portion of the second mounting plate 2 is embedded in the third through hole 71;

[0082] The projection of the third through hole 71 on the surface of the second mounting plate 2 covers the second opening 21 and the observation window 22.

[0083] In the above embodiment, since the second opening 21 is not covered by the cover plate 7, it is convenient for the liquid pipeline to communicate with the second opening 21. At the same time, the observation window 22 is not covered by the cover plate 7, which is convenient for the operator to observe the microfluidic chip 9.

[0084] Optionally, the fixture for the microfluidic chip 9 also includes a gas line (not shown in the figure) and a liquid line (not shown in the figure);

[0085] One end of the gas pipeline is detachably connected to the end of the first opening 12 away from the microfluidic chip 9; one end of the liquid pipeline is detachably connected to the end of the second opening 21 away from the microfluidic chip 9.

[0086] In the above embodiments, the connection between the gas pipeline and the first mounting plate 1 is very simple, and the connection between the liquid pipeline and the second mounting plate 2 is also very simple, making operation convenient and helping to improve the fixation efficiency of the microfluidic chip 9. Therefore, the external gas pipeline is connected to the gas microchannel inside the microfluidic chip 9, and the external liquid pipeline is connected to the liquid microchannel inside the microfluidic chip 9, without causing gas or liquid to leak to the surface of the microfluidic chip 9.

[0087] In one specific embodiment, the microfluidic chip 9 is placed between the first mounting plate 1 and the second mounting plate 2. The microfluidic chip 9 is pressed between the first mounting plate 1 and the second mounting plate 2 using locking units 8 fixed to both sides of the cover plate 7. At this time, the clamping force of the locking units 8 deforms the first elastic sealing gasket 31 at the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel of the microfluidic chip 9, and also deforms the second elastic sealing gasket 32 ​​at the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel of the microfluidic chip 9, thus creating a sealing effect. This prevents gas and liquid from leaking out between the elastic rubber gasket and the plane of the microfluidic chip 9, allowing them to flow out only from the first opening 12 of the first elastic sealing gasket 31 or the second opening 21 of the second elastic sealing gasket 32.

[0088] In this way, the gas and liquid lines do not need to be connected to the microfluidic chip 9 itself, but only to the first opening 12 of the first elastic sealing gasket 31 and the second opening 21 of the second elastic sealing gasket 32, which reduces the connection difficulty. When the microfluidic chip 9 is needed for an experiment, it is placed in the first groove 11 and the first mounting plate 1 and the second mounting plate 2 are locked by the locking unit 8, thus completing the installation process of the gas and liquid lines of the microfluidic chip 9. After the experiment, the locking unit 8 can be manually released to easily remove the microfluidic chip 9, while the gas line remains connected to the first elastic sealing part and the liquid line remains connected to the second elastic sealing gasket 32. Without disassembly, a new microfluidic chip 9 can be installed for the next round of experiments.

[0089] When conducting experiments requiring temperature control, the temperature control unit 6 only needs to pass through the first through-hole 52 and the second through-hole 13 to contact the microfluidic chip 9, thus reducing the installation complexity of the experimental device. Similarly, after inserting the microfluidic chip 9, the locking unit 8 is used to lock it in place, and the experiment begins. After the experiment, the locking unit 8 is released, the microfluidic chip 9 is removed, and a new microfluidic chip 9 can be installed without adjusting the gas lines, liquid lines, and temperature control unit 6, allowing for the next round of experiments, greatly improving experimental efficiency.

[0090] It is understood that the above embodiments are merely exemplary implementations used to illustrate the principles of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited thereto. For those skilled in the art, various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and essence of the present invention, and these modifications and improvements are also considered to be within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A fixture for fixing a microfluidic chip, characterized in that, include: A first mounting plate and a second mounting plate are provided. The first mounting plate is provided with a first groove for accommodating a microfluidic chip. The second mounting plate is disposed above the first mounting plate, and the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate cooperate to press the microfluidic chip into the first groove. The bottom surface of the first groove is provided with a plurality of first openings, each of which corresponds to the inlet or outlet of a gas microchannel on the first surface of the microfluidic chip. The side of the second mounting plate facing the microfluidic chip is provided with a plurality of second openings, each of which corresponds to the inlet or outlet of a liquid microchannel on the second surface of the microfluidic chip. A first elastic sealing gasket and a second elastic sealing gasket are provided, wherein the first elastic sealing gasket is installed in the first opening and the second elastic sealing gasket is installed in the second opening; the first elastic sealing gasket is provided with a first through hole and the second elastic sealing gasket is provided with a second through hole. The detection unit includes a first conductor, a second conductor, a connecting circuit, and a first indicator light. The connecting circuit is provided with the first conductor, the second conductor, and the first indicator light. The first conductor is disposed on the upper surface of the first mounting plate, and a first detection hole is disposed on the second mounting plate at a position corresponding to the first conductor. The second conductor is disposed at a preset depth in the first detection hole. When the first conductor is embedded in the first detection hole and the first conductor and the second conductor are in contact, the connecting circuit is turned on, and the first indicator light is illuminated. When a microfluidic chip with a preset thickness is pressed into the first groove, the first elastic sealing gasket seals the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel, so that the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel is connected to the first through hole; the second elastic sealing gasket seals the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel, so that the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel is connected to the second through hole; at the same time, the connection circuit is turned on.

2. The fixture for fixing microfluidic chips according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection unit also includes a third conductor, a conductive metal sheet, and a second indicator light; The third conductor, the conductive metal sheet, and the second indicator light are disposed in the connection circuit. A second detection hole is provided on the bottom surface of the first groove. A first elastic sealing gasket is installed in the second detection hole, and the third conductor is installed in the first through hole of the first elastic sealing gasket. A preset distance is formed between the end face of the third conductor and the surface of the first elastic sealing gasket. Compressing the first elastic sealing gasket can make the end face of the third conductor flush with the surface of the first elastic sealing gasket. The conductive metal sheet is disposed at the position corresponding to the third conductor in the microfluidic chip. When the microfluidic chip is pressed into the first groove, the microfluidic chip compresses the first elastic sealing pad to deform it. When the deformation of the first elastic sealing pad reaches a predetermined deformation amount, the third conductor contacts the conductive metal sheet, the connection circuit is turned on, and the second indicator light is lit.

3. The fixture for fixing microfluidic chips according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the base plate and temperature control unit; The upper surface of the base plate is provided with a second groove, and the middle of the second groove is provided with a first through hole extending to the lower surface of the base plate; the first mounting plate is embedded in the second groove; the middle of the bottom surface of the first groove is provided with a second through hole communicating with the first through hole, and a plurality of first openings are arranged around the second through hole; the projection of the first through hole on the first mounting plate covers the first opening and the second through hole; The temperature control unit can pass through the first through hole and the second through hole in sequence to contact the microfluidic chip in order to heat or cool the microfluidic chip.

4. The fixture for fixing microfluidic chips according to claim 3, characterized in that, The temperature control unit includes a temperature control element, a metal adapter block, and a temperature sensor; One side of the metal adapter block is attached to the temperature control element, and the other side is attached to the microfluidic chip. The temperature control element heats or cools the microfluidic chip through the metal adapter block. The temperature sensor is disposed in the second through hole and can be attached to the microfluidic chip to measure the temperature of the microfluidic chip. When the temperature of the microfluidic chip reaches the preset temperature, the temperature control element is turned off to stop heating or cooling the microfluidic chip.

5. The fixture for fixing microfluidic chips according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a cover plate; The cover plate is disposed on the side of the second mounting plate away from the first mounting plate. The cover plate is fastened to the base plate, and the microfluidic chip is pressed into the first groove by the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate.

6. The fixture for fixing microfluidic chips according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a locking unit, which is disposed on the side of the cover plate and rotatably connected to the cover plate, and the locking unit is provided with a locking slot; Rotate the locking unit to engage the base plate with the locking slot of the locking unit.

7. The fixture for fixing a microfluidic chip according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the first elastic sealing gasket is installed in the first opening, the surface of the first elastic sealing gasket protrudes from the bottom surface of the first groove; when the second elastic sealing gasket is installed in the second opening, the surface of the second elastic sealing gasket protrudes from the surface of the second mounting plate. When the microfluidic chip is pressed into the first groove, the microfluidic chip compresses the first elastic sealing gasket so that the first elastic sealing gasket seals the inlet or outlet of the gas microchannel; at the same time, the microfluidic chip compresses the second elastic sealing gasket so that the second elastic sealing gasket seals the inlet or outlet of the liquid microchannel.

8. The fixture for fixing a microfluidic chip according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second mounting plate is provided with an observation window, and second openings are distributed around the observation window, through which the microfluidic chip can be observed.

9. The fixture for fixing a microfluidic chip according to claim 8, characterized in that, The cover plate is provided with a third through hole, and a portion of the second mounting plate is embedded in the third through hole; The projection of the third through hole onto the surface of the second mounting plate covers the second opening and the observation window.

10. The fixture for fixing a microfluidic chip according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes gas pipelines and liquid pipelines; One end of the gas pipeline is detachably connected to the end of the first opening away from the microfluidic chip; one end of the liquid pipeline is detachably connected to the end of the second opening away from the microfluidic chip.

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