Target object separation apparatus and method

Abstract

An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a target object separation device including: an injection portion into which a fluid containing fine particles is injected; a passage portion that concentrates and flows a target object in a certain direction during flow of the injected fluid, the passage portion including a plurality of undercut structures having a groove shape in a direction perpendicular to a main flow direction of the fluid; and a target object acquisition portion that acquires the target object concentrated in the certain direction, at least one of the injection portion, the passage portion, and the target object acquisition portion including a column structure disposed in an area other than the plurality of undercut structures.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a target object separation device and method, and more specifically, to a device and method for smoothly performing the separation of target objects by configuring grooves, structures, etc. inside the device. Background Technology

[0002] Sample pretreatment techniques for separating and concentrating microparticles such as cells or plasma play a crucial role in various fields, including biological research, in vitro diagnostics, therapy, and pharmaceuticals. To separate and concentrate these specific microparticles or plasma, centrifuges are primarily used, utilizing the density difference between cells. However, while centrifuges are useful for processing large volumes of samples, they are limited in their efficiency for small volumes, are expensive, and pose a risk of physical damage to the microparticles or plasma.

[0003] Therefore, microfluidic chip-based separation and concentration technologies for microparticles or plasma are currently under development. These technologies allow for the separation and concentration of microparticles or plasma by setting up arbitrary structures to manipulate flow within channels ranging from tens of micrometers to millimeters. Based on microfluidic chip-based separation and concentration technologies for microparticles or plasma, separation and concentration can be performed with small amounts of reagents and low power, offering high portability and enabling rapid analysis and detection at low concentrations.

[0004] However, current microfluidic chips suffer from channel center sagging due to thermal deformation during chip manufacturing, resulting in poor cell concentration in some cases due to reverse flow lines. Therefore, research is needed to address both channel center sagging and the reduced concentration effect caused by reverse flow lines, while simultaneously achieving excellent particle separation and concentration.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Publication No. 2011-0005963 (Publication Date: January 20, 2011) Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical problems to be solved

[0009] One embodiment of this disclosure provides a target object separation apparatus and method that performs excellent separation and concentration functions of the target object.

[0010] Furthermore, one embodiment of this disclosure aims to address the sagging phenomenon in the central portion of the channel of a microfluidic chip.

[0011] Furthermore, one embodiment of this disclosure aims to solve the problem of poor concentration effect caused by reverse flow.

[0012] Problem Solving Methods

[0013] One embodiment of this disclosure aims to provide a target object separation apparatus and method that performs excellent separation and concentration functions of the target object.

[0014] One embodiment of this disclosure aims to provide a target object separation device, comprising: an injection section injecting a fluid containing particles; and a passage section that, during the flow of the injected fluid, concentrates and flows a target object in a certain direction. The passage section may include multiple etched structures, each etched structure having a groove shape in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid. Furthermore, the target object separation device also includes a target object obtaining section that obtains the target object concentrated in the certain direction. At least one of the injection section, the passage section, and the target object obtaining section may include a column structure disposed in a region other than the multiple etched structures.

[0015] In one embodiment, the target object separation device may further include a non-target object discharge section.

[0016] In one embodiment, the target object can undergo secondary flow in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid through the multiple engraved structures and concentrate in a certain direction.

[0017] In one embodiment, the target object separation device may include a high-speed channel section that extends to form at least a portion of the region between the injection section and the target object acquisition section.

[0018] In one embodiment, the plurality of etched structures may not be disposed in the high-speed channel portion. For example, the plurality of etched structures may be disposed in a passage portion other than the high-speed channel portion.

[0019] In one embodiment, the high-speed channel portion may be formed as a groove-shaped channel in the depth direction on one side of the passage portion corresponding to the direction of particle concentration.

[0020] In one embodiment, the high-speed channel portion may have a width of 0.1% to 50% of the width of the passage portion.

[0021] In one embodiment, the fine pattern formed by the plurality of engraved structures may have a curved shape.

[0022] In one embodiment, the plurality of etched structures are disposed on the bottom or top surface of the particle separation device, and the plurality of etched structures may be formed by multiple disconnections between each other.

[0023] In one embodiment, the plurality of etched structures form a fine pattern in a straight line shape, the fine pattern in a straight line shape having an angle of 45 degrees to 135 degrees relative to the main flow direction of the fluid.

[0024] In one embodiment, the plurality of engraved structures form a fine pattern in the shape of a curve, the fine pattern being formed from a first point as the starting point to a second point as the ending point, the tangent at the first point having an angle of 45 degrees to 135 degrees relative to the main flow direction of the fluid, and the tangent at the second point having an angle of 0 degrees to 75 degrees or 105 degrees to 180 degrees relative to the main flow direction of the fluid.

[0025] In one embodiment, when the target object is white blood cells, the non-target object discharge section obtains red blood cells; when the target object is plasma, the non-target object discharge section obtains blood cells; and when the target object is cells, the non-target object discharge section can obtain culture medium from which the cells have been removed.

[0026] In one embodiment, the height of the column structure corresponds to the height of the passage portion, and the column structure has a column shape with a cross-section of a circle, ellipse, streamline, or rounded polygon. The maximum length of the cross-section of the column shape can be determined in such a way that the value of (height of the passage portion) / (maximum length of the cross-section) does not exceed a specific value.

[0027] In one embodiment, when there are multiple pillar structures, the spacing between the multiple pillar structures may be wider or the same as the diameter of the microparticle to be obtained or the length of the intaglio structure.

[0028] One embodiment of this disclosure aims to provide a method for separating a target object from a fluid using a target object separation device, comprising: injecting a fluid containing particles into an injection section; and obtaining, in a target object obtaining section, the injected fluid flowing in a passage section and concentrating the target object in a certain direction, the passage section comprising a plurality of engraved structures having a groove shape in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid, at least one of the injection section, the passage section, and the target object obtaining section comprising a column structure disposed in a region other than the plurality of engraved structures.

[0029] In one embodiment, the method for separating target objects may further include the step of obtaining non-target objects in the non-target object discharge section.

[0030] In one embodiment, the target object can flow in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid through the plurality of engraved structures and concentrate in a certain direction.

[0031] In one embodiment, the target object separation device may include a high-speed channel section that extends to form at least a portion of the region between the injection section and the target object acquisition section.

[0032] Invention Effects

[0033] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the target substance can be effectively separated and concentrated.

[0034] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of this disclosure, the phenomenon of sagging in the central portion of the channel of a microfluidic chip can be resolved.

[0035] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of this disclosure, the problem of poor concentration effect caused by reverse flow can be solved.

[0036] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of this disclosure, the microfluidic chip is formed with a finely patterned inclined structure in a curved shape. Compared to a straight inclined structure, the curved inclined structure can significantly increase the flow rate of the secondary flow, and this increased flow rate can greatly enhance the separation performance of plasma, cells, or microparticles. Moreover, in terms of using the microfluidic chip of this disclosure with such effects, its usability is superior to existing cell separation and concentration technologies, minimizing cell damage. Consequently, cell separation and concentration technologies based on microfluidic chip technology are applicable to everything from conventional cell culture-based experimental processes to the development / production processes of stem cell and immune cell therapeutics. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1a A diagram illustrating the configuration of a target object separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 1b for Figure 1a A partially enlarged view of the target object separation device.

[0039] Figure 1c To explain Figure 1a A diagram showing the tilt of the fine pattern of the target object separation device.

[0040] Figure 2a A diagram illustrating the configuration of a target object separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 2b for Figure 2a A partially enlarged view of the target object separation device.

[0042] Figure 2c To explain Figure 2a A diagram showing the tilt of the fine pattern of the target object separation device.

[0043] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a particulate separation apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a particle separation device including a high-speed channel section according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a target object separation device exhibiting a drooping phenomenon in the central portion of the channel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates a cross-sectional view of a target object separation device that solves the problem of channel center drooping according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figures 7a to 7c A diagram illustrating the process of separating microparticles using a plurality of groove-shaped engraved structures according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement and configuration of a plurality of engraved structures according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 9a A diagram illustrating the cell separation performance of a finely patterned cell with a linear morphology according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 9b A graph simulating the cell separation performance of a finely patterned shape with a curved morphology according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 10a and Figure 10b A graph illustrating the results of experiments conducted on cell separation performance with a curved shape based on a fine pattern according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 11a A graph illustrating the separation performance of a target object in the absence of a high-speed channel section according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 11b A diagram illustrating the separation performance of a target object in the presence of a high-speed channel section according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0054] To clarify the technical concept of this disclosure, embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In describing this disclosure, detailed descriptions of well-known functions or components will be omitted if it is determined that such descriptions may unnecessarily obscure the essence of the disclosure. For components that have substantially the same functional configuration in the drawings, even if shown in different drawings, the same reference numerals and symbols are used as much as possible. For ease of explanation, apparatus and methods will be described together where necessary. The actions of this disclosure are not necessarily performed in the order described; they may be performed in parallel, selectively, or individually.

[0055] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure has been selected as far as possible from currently widely used conventional terms while taking into account the functionality of this disclosure. However, these terms may vary according to the intent or precedent of those skilled in the art, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Moreover, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, in which case their meanings will be described in the description section of the corresponding embodiments. Therefore, the terminology used in this specification should be defined based on the substantive meaning of the terms and the overall content of this disclosure, rather than simply the names of the terms.

[0056] Throughout this disclosure, singular expressions may include plural expressions unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the text. Terms such as "comprising" or "having" should be understood as specifying the presence of a feature, number, step, action, constituent element, component, or combination thereof, without pre-excluding the presence or additional possibility of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof. That is, throughout this disclosure, when a part is referred to as "comprising" a constituent element, unless specifically stated otherwise, it means that other constituent elements may be included, not excluded.

[0057] Expressions like "at least one of" are used to modify the entire list of constituent elements without individually modifying each element. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" and "at least one of A, B, or C" refer to A, B, C, A and B, B and C, A and C, A and B and C, or combinations thereof.

[0058] Furthermore, the terms “...part”, “...module”, etc., as described in this disclosure refer to a unit that processes at least one function or action, which can be implemented as hardware or software, or as a combination of hardware and software.

[0059] Throughout this disclosure, when a part is referred to as being "connected" to other parts, this includes not only "direct connection" but also "electrical connection" formed by other elements intervening between them. Furthermore, when a part is referred to as "comprising" a constituent element, unless specifically stated otherwise, this means that other constituent elements may be included, rather than excluded.

[0060] The expression “configured to” as used throughout this disclosure may be used interchangeably with, for example, “suitable for,” “having the capacity to,” “designed to,” “adapted to,” “made to,” or “capable of,” depending on the context. The term “configured to” is not limited to meaning “specifically designed to” in hardware terms. Instead, in some cases, the expression “system configured to” may mean that the system is “capable” of being configured with other devices or components. For example, the sentence “configured (or set) as a processor to perform A, B, and C” may mean a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) or a generic-purpose processor (e.g., a CPU or application processor) for performing the corresponding actions, wherein the generic-purpose processor performs the corresponding actions by executing one or more software programs stored in memory.

[0061] The term “about” as used in this disclosure means within 10% of the specified value or range, preferably within 5%, and more preferably within 1%.

[0062] One embodiment of this disclosure aims to provide a target object separation apparatus and method for separating and / or concentrating specific particles such as cells or plasma in a desired direction.

[0063] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of this disclosure, the target object separation device guides secondary flow in a direction perpendicular to the fluid flow on the top or bottom surface of the channel, thereby separating and / or concentrating plasma, cells, or particles, etc.

[0064] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of this disclosure, the target object separation device utilizes a curved inclined structure, which significantly increases the flow velocity of the secondary flow compared to using a straight inclined structure. Moreover, the increased flow velocity enhances the separation performance of the target object.

[0065] Moreover, compared to existing particle separation and concentration devices, the target substance separation device according to an embodiment of this disclosure has excellent usability and can minimize damage to particles such as cells. Furthermore, the target substance separation device and method according to an embodiment of this disclosure are versatilely applicable to a wide range of processes, from conventional cell culture-based experiments to the development / production of stem cell and immune cell therapeutics.

[0066] One embodiment of this disclosure utilizes the pattern shape of the target object separation device to separate a target object in a desired direction. Furthermore, the target object can be separated in a cost-effective and convenient manner in a specific direction using the pattern shape of the target object separation device.

[0067] In the entirety of this disclosure, "target object" or "target object" refers to the target object that is to be separated by the target object separation device, which may include, for example, particles, blood plasma, etc. Among them, microparticles may include red blood cells, platelets, white blood cells, circulating tumor cells, stem cells, exhausted stored erythrocytes, T cells derived from autologous T cell expansion, organic microparticles, inorganic microparticles, organometallic microparticles, metallic microparticles, aerosol particles, bacteria, yeast, fungi, algae, viruses, micro invertebrates or their eggs, pollen, cell or tissue fragments, cell clumps, cell debris (e.g., cell debris associated with DNA or RNA purification), cells or granules produced in bioreactors, proteins, protein aggregates, prions, vesicles, liposomes, precipitates (e.g., precipitates from blood or blood fractions, industrial process precipitates, wastewater precipitates, etc.), granules or cells from fermented foods (e.g., granules or cells from fermented beverages), macromolecules, macromolecular aggregates, DNA, organelles, spores, bubbles, droplets, and foreign bodies, etc.

[0068] Figure 1a A diagram illustrating the configuration of a target object separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] Reference Figure 1aThe target object separation device 100 may include an injection port 110, an injection section 115, a passage section 120, a target object acquisition section 130a, and a non-target object discharge section 130b. In one embodiment, fluid containing particles can be injected into the target object separation device 100 through the injection port 110. The injection section 115 may refer to a fluid flow passage near the injection port 110. In one embodiment, as the injected fluid flows through the injection section 115 and the passage section 120, the target object can be concentrated and separated in a certain direction. Furthermore, the separated target object can be concentrated in the target object acquisition section 130a. Moreover, non-target objects that are not target objects can be concentrated in the non-target object discharge section 130b.

[0070] The process of injecting fluid into the injection port 110 and concentrating the target object into the target object acquisition unit 130a will be described in more detail below.

[0071] In one embodiment, a fluid containing microparticles can be injected into the injection port 110. For example, the fluid can be injected via a tube, syringe, pipette, etc. Furthermore, the fluid may, for example, include whole blood for the purpose of obtaining white blood cells or plasma. Moreover, the fluid may include cell culture medium.

[0072] In one embodiment, during the flow of the injected fluid in the injection section 115 and the passage section 120, the target object can be separated in a specific direction. Therefore, a target object obtaining section 130a is provided at the end of the target object separation device 100 in a certain direction, thereby obtaining the separated target object. Furthermore, a non-target object discharging section 130b is provided at the end of the fluid passage of the target object separation device 100, thereby obtaining non-target objects.

[0073] Alternatively, a target object obtaining section may be provided at the end of the fluid passage of the target object separation device 100, or a non-target object obtaining section (not shown) may be provided at the end of the target object separation device 100 in a certain direction. For example, the non-target object obtaining section may form a channel and be disposed in the middle of the fluid passage of the target object separation device 100. Moreover, multiple non-target object obtaining sections may be provided.

[0074] For example, when the target object separation device 100 is a device for separating plasma, if blood is injected into the injection port 110, the plasma will concentrate in the target object receiving section 130a, while blood cells (e.g., white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets, etc.) may concentrate in the non-target object discharge section 130b. Therefore, even if plasma is separated by the plasma separation device, blood cells, etc., can be used without being discarded.

[0075] Furthermore, for example, when the target object separation device 100 is a device for separating white blood cells, if blood is injected into the injection port 110, white blood cells can be extracted through the target object acquisition section 130a, while red blood cells can be extracted through the non-target object discharge section 130b.

[0076] Furthermore, for example, when the target object separation device 100 is a device for separating cells, if cell culture medium or cell suspension is injected into the injection port 110, concentrated cells can be extracted through the target object acquisition section 130a, and culture medium excluding specific cells can be extracted through the non-target object discharge section 130b.

[0077] In one embodiment, the target object of the target object separation device 100 may vary depending on the fluid passage pattern of the target object separation device 100.

[0078] In one embodiment of this disclosure, one target object obtaining unit 130a and one non-target object discharging unit 130b are shown. This is merely an example, and at least one of the target object obtaining unit and the non-target object discharging unit may be multiple. For example, the target object separation device 100 may include two or more, such as four to ten target object obtaining units. Moreover, in other examples, the target object separation device 100 may include three or more, such as four to 30, and more specifically, eight to 15 non-target object discharging units. The number of each of these target object obtaining units and non-target object discharging units can be determined according to whether the target objects are in the same or different manner.

[0079] Furthermore, the target object obtaining unit 130a may be referred to as the first target object obtaining unit, and the non-target object discharging unit 130b may be referred to as the second target object obtaining unit. The number of target object obtaining units 130a and non-target object discharging units 130b, unless otherwise specified, can be equally applied to the target object obtaining units and non-target object discharging units of the target object separation apparatus according to the various embodiments described below.

[0080] In one embodiment, the target substance separation device 100 may have multiple channels. A channel refers to a continuous passage from the injection port to the target substance receiving section or the non-target substance discharge section, and the number of channels can be determined according to whether the target substances are the same or different. The number of channels can be from 1 to 40, more specifically from 2 to 30, and even more specifically from 5 to 20. For example, regarding the number of channels from the injection port to the target substance receiving section, the number of channels in a leukocyte separation device is 6, the number of channels in a plasma separation device is 6, and the number of channels in a cell separation device can be 2. However, these are merely examples, and the target substance separation device 100 can be formed with a variety of numbers of channels.

[0081] In one embodiment, each channel can branch into multiple channels in the middle of the continuous path from the injection port to the target object receiving section or the non-target object discharge section, thereby generating additional channels. For example, additional channels can be generated in the middle of the channel, thereby forming a non-target object discharge section at its end. For example, when there are 8 non-target object discharge outlets, 8 additional channels can be generated from the multiple channels starting from the injection port.

[0082] Figure 1b for Figure 1a A partially enlarged view of the target object separation device.

[0083] Reference Figure 1b The diagram shows Figure 1a A portion 140 of the passage 120 is shown in an enlarged view. In one embodiment, the separation of the target object can be performed using a predetermined pattern, which has a predetermined angle of inclination relative to the main direction of fluid movement within the target object separation device 100. The type, size, and arrangement of the pattern can be determined based on the main direction of fluid movement and the specific direction intended for separating the target object. For example, the fine pattern of the target object separation device 100, based on the main direction of fluid flow, can have an inclination angle relative to the specific direction intended for separating the target object; in terms of inclination angle, it can include an inclination angle of 45 to 135 degrees relative to the main direction of fluid movement. With such an inclination angle, when fluid containing particles is injected into the target object separation device 100, the fluid can move in a direction perpendicular to the inclined pattern groove, thus causing the target object to flow in a concentrated direction.

[0084] In one embodiment, a fine pattern within the target object separation device 100 can be formed by multiple grooves. The shape of the grooves can be determined according to the type of target object to be separated. The shape of the grooves can include the height, width, length, and height of the passage portion 120. For example, the height and width of the grooves can be within 0.5 to 2 times the diameter of the target object, the length of the grooves can be within 3 to 10 times the diameter of the target object, and the height of the passage portion can be within 1 to 3 times the diameter of the target object. The particle diameter can include the average diameter of the particles. Furthermore, the pattern within the passage portion 120 can include grooves arranged at a certain interval. For example, the interval can include approximately 1 to 70 μm (micrometer), such as approximately 5 to 40 μm, or approximately 10 to 20 μm. The shape of the grooves can be rectangular, rhomboid, triangular, elliptical, star-shaped, etc., but is not limited to these. In one embodiment, the groove can refer to an engraved channel portion or an engraved structure. That is, the separation of the target object can be performed by having multiple engraved structures disposed on the top or bottom surface of the channel within the passage portion 120. Referring to the engraved structures, Figure 7 will be used; and referring to the fine patterns formed by the engraved structures, [further details will be provided]. Figure 1c Details will be discussed later.

[0085] In one embodiment, the target object moving in a specific direction is maintained in a vertical position in the passage section 120 by the laminar flow of the fluid, even in areas without a defined pattern. Therefore, a fluid containing a highly concentrated target object can be obtained through the target object obtaining section 130a located at the end. That is, the target object can be concentrated and separated in a certain direction by the passage section 120, so the separated target object can be obtained by providing the target object obtaining section 130a at the end in a certain direction.

[0086] For example, the target object separation device 100, which has a target object acquisition section 130a, can perform leukocyte separation using whole blood. That is, by utilizing the separation flow process through the passage section 120, the target object acquisition section 130a acquires a high proportion of leukocytes, and as the leukocytes concentrate and move towards the target object acquisition section 130a, the non-target object discharge section 130b acquires a considerably high proportion of red blood cells. The diameters of the target object acquisition section 130a and the non-target object discharge section 130b can be determined according to what the target object and non-target object are, respectively. For example, when the target object is leukocytes and the non-target object is red blood cells, the diameter of the target object acquisition section 130a can be larger than the diameter of the non-target object discharge section 130b.

[0087] In one embodiment, the target object separation device 100 may be made based on polymers such as PS (polystyrene), PC (polycarbonate), PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate), PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane), etc. When the surface is hydrophobic, it can also separate and arrange target objects. However, considering the flow of fluid, it is preferable to make its surface hydrophilic.

[0088] Figure 1c To explain Figure 1a A diagram showing the tilt of the fine pattern of the target object separation device.

[0089] Reference Figure 1c The fine pattern of the target object separation device 100 can be formed at an angle of 45 to 135 degrees, based on the main flow direction of the fluid. For example, when the main flow direction of the fluid is set as the x-axis, the angle θ of the fine pattern can be approximately 45 to approximately 135 degrees. In this case, the angle θ of the fine pattern can be determined according to what the target object is. For example, depending on the target object, the angle θ of the fine pattern in one channel of the target object separation device is approximately 45 degrees, and the angle θ of the fine pattern in another channel can be approximately 135 degrees. In another example, the angle θ of the fine pattern in one channel is approximately 60 degrees, and in another channel it can be approximately 120 degrees. In yet another example, the angle θ of the fine pattern in one channel is approximately 75 degrees, and in another channel it can be approximately 105 degrees. However, this is only an example, and the angle θ of the fine pattern can be appropriately selected according to the target object.

[0090] In one embodiment, the fine pattern can be formed by an engraving structure of the target object separation device 100. For example, if a fluid containing particles is injected into the target object separation device 100, the fluid will move through the inclined engraving channel in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid, while the target object flows in a certain direction according to the angle of the fine pattern.

[0091] Figure 2a A diagram illustrating the configuration of a target object separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] Reference Figure 2a The target object separation device 200 compared to the reference Figure 1aThe aforementioned object separation device 100 also includes a high-speed channel section 250, the fine patterns of which may differ from one another. Apart from these points of difference or portions arising from them, the object separation device 200 may have the features of the aforementioned object separation device 100 as described with reference to FIG1.

[0093] Figures 1a to 1c The figure illustrates a target object separation device 100 that includes fine patterns in the form of straight lines. Figures 2a to 2c The figure shows a target object separation device 200 including a fine pattern in the shape of a curve and a high-speed channel section 250, but the shape of the target object separation device is not limited to this. Any target object separation device may include at least one of a fine pattern in the shape of a straight line, a fine pattern in the shape of a curve, and a high-speed channel section.

[0094] In one embodiment, the target object separation device 200 may include: an injection port 210 into which a fluid containing particles is injected; an injection section 215 serving as a fluid flow path near the injection port 210; a passage section 220 that, during the flow of the injected fluid, concentrates and flows the target object in a certain direction; a target object obtaining section 230a that obtains the target object concentrated in a certain direction; a non-target object discharge section 230b; a high-speed channel section 250, etc. In one embodiment of this disclosure, although the figure shows only one target object obtaining section 230a, this is merely an example; there may be two target object obtaining sections 230a, and may include three or more, for example, four to ten particle obtaining sections. Similarly, Figure 2a The middle figure shows a case where there is only one non-target object discharge section 230b, but there can also be multiple sections. For example, the target object separation device 100 may include three or more, such as four to 30, and more specifically eight to 15 non-target object discharge sections. The number of each of these target object receiving sections and non-target object discharge sections can be determined according to whether the target object is in the same or different manner.

[0095] In one embodiment, the target object obtaining section 230a and the non-target object discharging section 230b can be referred to as the first target object obtaining section and the second target object obtaining section, respectively. There can be multiple first target object obtaining sections 230a and multiple second target object discharging sections 230b. The inlet 210, injection section 215, and passage section 220 can respectively correspond to the reference... Figure 1a The aforementioned injection port 110, injection section 115, and passage section 120 are performed. Furthermore, the target object acquisition section 230a and the non-target object discharge section 230b can respectively correspond to the reference... Figure 1aThe aforementioned target object acquisition unit 130a and non-target object discharge unit 130b are performed. Therefore, detailed descriptions of the injection port 210, injection unit 215, passage unit 220, target object acquisition unit 230a, and non-target object discharge unit 230b will be omitted. However, the structure, shape, arrangement position, and number of fine patterns in the target object separation device 200 and the target object separation device 100 may differ.

[0096] In one embodiment, the fine pattern can be formed by an engraved structure having a groove shape in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid.

[0097] In one embodiment, at least one of the injection section 215, the passage section 220, the target object acquisition section 230a, and the non-target object discharge section 230b may include a plurality of engraved structures, the plurality of engraved structures having a groove shape in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid.

[0098] In one embodiment, as fluid injected into the target object separation device 200 through the injection port 210 flows in the injection section 215 and the passage section 220, the target object can be concentrated and separated in a certain direction. Such separation of the target object can be performed by multiple engraved structures disposed on the top or bottom surface of a channel provided within the passage section 220. In one embodiment, the engraved structure may be referred to as an engraved channel section or groove. The process of separating the target object using the engraved structure will be described in detail later with reference to FIG7.

[0099] In one embodiment, the plurality of etched structures may have multiple structures formed in a discontinuous manner. According to one embodiment, the etched structures guide secondary flow in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid, which can effectively separate and concentrate particles.

[0100] In one embodiment, the etched structure may have an inclination relative to a specific direction intended for separating particles, with the main flow direction of the fluid as a reference; that is, the etched structure may include an inclined structure. In terms of inclination, it may include an inclination of 45 to 135 degrees relative to the main flow direction of the fluid. According to one embodiment, if a fluid containing particles is flowed in a target object separation device 200, the particles move in a direction perpendicular to the inclined etched structure, thereby concentrating and flowing in a certain direction.

[0101] In one embodiment, the engraved structure can be an inclined structure with a curved shape along its length. For example, the fine pattern formed by multiple engraved structures can be curved. For example, the curve can include at least a portion of a circle, at least a portion of an ellipse, at least a portion of a cycloid shape, or any other curved shape.

[0102] In one embodiment, multiple channels may be formed in the target substance separation device 200. A channel refers to a continuous passage from the injection port to the target substance receiving section or the non-target substance discharge section, and the number of channels can be determined according to the target substance. The number of channels can be from 1 to 40, more specifically from 2 to 30, and even more specifically from 5 to 20. For example, in terms of the number of channels from the injection port to the target substance receiving section, a leukocyte separation device has 6 channels, a plasma separation device has 6 channels, and a cell separation device can have 2 channels. However, this is only one example, and the target substance separation device 200 can be formed with a variety of numbers of channels.

[0103] In one embodiment, each channel can branch into multiple channels in the middle of the continuous path from the injection port to the target object receiving section or the non-target object discharge section, thus generating additional channels. For example, additional channels can be generated in the middle of the channel, thereby forming a non-target object discharge section at its end. For example, when there are 8 non-target object discharge ports, 8 additional channels can be generated from the channel (multiple) starting from the injection port.

[0104] In one embodiment, the high-speed channel portion 250 may be formed in at least a portion of the region between the injection port 210 and the target object receiving portion. Furthermore, the etched structures are not disposed in the high-speed channel portion 250; multiple etched structures may be disposed only in the region excluding the high-speed channel portion 250. Referring to the high-speed channel portion 250, reference will be made to... Figure 2b , Figure 3 and Figure 4 Details will be discussed later.

[0105] In one embodiment, at least one of the injection section 215, the passage section 220, the target substance acquisition section 230a, and the non-target substance discharge section 230b may include at least one column structure. For example, in a target substance separation device for separating leukocytes, a column structure is present in the injection section 215; in a target substance separation device for separating plasma, a column structure is present in both the injection section 215 and the passage section 220; and in a target substance separation device for separating cells, column structures may be present in the injection section 215, the passage section 220, the target substance acquisition section 230a, and the non-target substance discharge section 230b. Furthermore, multiple column structures may exist in each region. However, this is merely an example, and column structures may exist in various numbers in different regions of the target substance separation device. Regarding column structures, refer to... Figure 5 and Figure 6 Details will be discussed later.

[0106] exist Figures 1a to 2cThe illustration shows a scenario where a target object receiving section or a non-target object discharge section is located at the end of the target object separation device. This is merely an example; at least one of the target object receiving section and the non-target object discharge section can, of course, be located in the middle part of the target object separation device. For example, when the target object separation device is a plasma separation device, the plasma receiving section, which is the target object, is located at the end of the plasma separation device, while the red blood cell or white blood cell discharge outlet, which is the non-target object, can be located in the middle part of the separation device. Similarly, when the target object separation device is a white blood cell separation device, the white blood cell receiving section, which is the target object, is located at the end of the separation device, while the red blood cell discharge outlet, which is the non-target object, can be located in the middle part of the separation device.

[0107] Figure 2b for Figure 2a A partially enlarged view of the target object separation device.

[0108] Reference Figure 2b The figure shows Figure 2a A portion 240 of the passage portion 220 is shown in an enlarged view. In one embodiment, the passage portion may include multiple etched structures and a high-speed channel portion 250.

[0109] In one embodiment, multiple etched structures may be disposed on at least a portion of the top or bottom surface of the passage, thereby guiding secondary flow in a direction perpendicular to the direction of fluid flow. Furthermore, based on the secondary flow, target particles can be separated and concentrated. The etched structures may have a predetermined inclination relative to the main flow direction of the fluid, the inclination being determined based on the main flow direction of the fluid and a specific direction intended for particle separation. Moreover, the multiple etched structures may be formed in multiple, disconnected configurations.

[0110] In one embodiment, multiple etched structures have a curved shape along their length, allowing for the formation of fine curved patterns. For example, as... Figure 2c As shown, the intricate pattern formed by multiple engraved structures can have an arc shape. Moreover, for example, the curve can include at least a portion of a circle, at least a portion of an ellipse, at least a portion of a cycloid shape, or any other curve shape.

[0111] In one embodiment, the etched structures are not disposed in the high-speed channel section 250; multiple etched structures may be disposed only in the passage sections other than the high-speed channel section 250. According to one embodiment, the high-speed channel section 250 is a groove-shaped channel formed along the depth direction in the direction of particle concentration. With the formation of the groove-shaped channel, the concentration efficiency of the target substance can be improved, and losses in the opposite direction can be reduced. That is, the high-speed channel section 250 can function as a structure for capturing particles.

[0112] In one embodiment, the high-speed channel section 250 may be formed in at least a portion of the region from the injection section to the target material receiving section. According to one embodiment, the presence of the high-speed channel section 250 reduces fluid resistance and increases local flow velocity. Furthermore, the pressure is reduced, resulting in flow towards the high-speed channel section 250, which increases the concentration efficiency of the target material. The function of the high-speed channel section 250 will be explained with reference to... Figure 3 and Figure 4 This will be discussed in more detail later. Furthermore, the concentration efficiency of the target substance will be referenced... Figure 9a and Figure 9b More details will follow.

[0113] Figure 2c To explain Figure 2a A diagram showing the tilt of the fine pattern of the target object separation device.

[0114] Reference Figure 2c The fine pattern of the target object separation device 200 can be formed in a curved shape. In one embodiment, the curved shape can be an arc shape. The fine pattern will now be described using a portion 270 of the passage section as an example. When the main flow direction of the fluid is set as the x-axis, and the angle of the tangent at the starting point of the curve of the fine pattern formed in the portion 270 of the passage section to the x-axis is called θ1, the angle θ1 of the fine pattern at the starting point can be between 45 degrees and 135 degrees. Furthermore, when the angle of the tangent at the ending point of the curve of the fine pattern formed in the portion 270 of the passage section to the x-axis is called θ2, the angle θ2 of the fine pattern at the ending point can be between 0 degrees and 75 degrees or between 105 degrees and 180 degrees. In this case, the angles θ1 and θ2 of the fine pattern can be determined according to what the target object is.

[0115] In one example, the angle θ1 of the fine pattern at the starting point is 85 degrees, and the angle θ2 at the ending point can be 45 degrees. In another example, the angle θ1 of the fine pattern at the starting point is 105 degrees, and the angle θ2 at the ending point can be 135 degrees. In yet another example, in one channel of the target object separation device, the angle θ1 of the fine pattern at the starting point is 60 degrees, and the angle θ2 at the ending point is 30 degrees; in another channel, the angle θ1 of the fine pattern at the starting point is 120 degrees, and the angle θ2 at the ending point can be 150 degrees.

[0116] However, this is just an example; the angles θ1 and θ2 of the fine pattern can be appropriately selected according to the target object.

[0117] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a particulate separation apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] Reference Figure 3 As an example of a target object separation device, we will take a particle separation device 300 as an example, and more specifically a cell separation device as an example. However, this is only an example. Figure 3 The embodiments of the particulate separation device 300 are applicable not only to cells but also to various target object separation devices such as plasma separation devices. In one embodiment, the particulate separation device 300 may include a plurality of etched structures 310, 320, 330, 340, 350, and 360. In one embodiment, as fluid is injected into the injection section of the particulate separation device 300, it moves in a specific direction during flow, causing the particles to concentrate in that specific direction. Figure 3 The following example illustrates the case where particles concentrate in a rightward direction. The fluid containing particles can concentrate in a rightward direction based on a pattern of a predetermined shape formed by multiple etched structures. However, due to the multiple etched structures, reverse flow lines may occur, which can reduce the concentration efficiency of the particles.

[0119] In one embodiment, to address the low particle concentration efficiency caused by reverse flow, a particle separation device can be provided, the particle separation device including one side of the concentrated particles (e.g., Figure 3 The high-speed channel section (on the right side of the image) is a groove-shaped channel in the depth direction.

[0120] Figure 4 The diagram is provided to schematically illustrate the configuration of a particle separation device including a high-speed channel section according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0121] Reference Figure 4 As an example of a target object separation device, we will take a particle separation device 400 as an example, and more specifically a cell separation device as an example. However, this is only an example. Figure 4 The embodiment of the particulate separation device 400 is applicable not only to cells but also to various target object separation devices such as plasma separation devices. In one embodiment, the particulate separation device 400 may include multiple etched structures 410, 420, 430, 440, 450 and a high-speed channel section 460. In one embodiment, the etched structures may not be provided in the high-speed channel section 460. Moreover, the high-speed channel section 460 may be formed as a groove-shaped channel in the depth direction on the side where the particulates are concentrated. For example, in Figure 4 A high-speed channel section 460 can be formed on the right side of the passage section. According to one embodiment, since an inclined structure with an etched structure is not configured in the high-speed channel section, reverse flow lines will not occur in the high-speed channel section 460, thereby reducing the probability of reverse movement of concentrated particles. Therefore, the high-speed channel section can improve concentration efficiency and reduce losses in the opposite direction.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the inclined structure forming the etched structure is not disposed in the high-speed channel section 460. Therefore, compared to the case with the inclined structure, fluid resistance can be reduced in the high-speed channel section. As a result, the local flow velocity can be increased, and the pressure can be reduced. If the pressure is reduced, the flow of fluid towards the high-speed channel section 460 can be further generated, thereby increasing the cell concentration efficiency.

[0123] In one embodiment, the width of the high-speed channel section can be formed to any value from 0.1% to 50% of the channel width of the particle separation device. For example, the width of the high-speed channel section of a plasma separation device can be formed to about 20% to about 30% of the channel width, such as about 27%, and the width of the high-speed channel section of a cell separation device can be formed to about 0.1% to 5% of the channel width, such as about 2%. However, this is only an example, and an appropriate width can be selected for effective concentration and separation of the target material.

[0124] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a target object separation device exhibiting a drooping phenomenon in the central portion of the channel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0125] Reference Figure 5 During the fabrication of the target object separation device 600, the central portion of the channel may sag due to thermal deformation of the plastic, etc. Therefore, the change in the height difference of the microfluidic channel affects the separation efficiency of the target object. In one embodiment of this disclosure, to prevent the central portion of the channel from sag, a method including... Figure 6 The target object separation device 600 has a column structure. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, channel deformation caused by sagging of the central portion of the channel can be prevented. Moreover, while preventing sagging of the central portion of the channel, damage to the target object or adverse effects on flow can be prevented.

[0126] One embodiment of this disclosure aims to provide a target object separation device for preventing sagging of the central portion of the channel.

[0127] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates a cross-sectional view of a target object separation device that solves the problem of channel center drooping according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0128] Reference Figure 6To prevent sagging in the central part of the channel, a column structure 630 can be provided in the target substance separation device 600. In one embodiment, the column structure 630 can be disposed in at least one of the injection section, the passage section, the target substance acquisition section, and the non-target substance discharge section, or multiple column structures 630 can be disposed. For example, in the target substance separation device 600 for separating leukocytes, the column structure 630 can be disposed only in the injection section. Moreover, for example, in the target substance separation device 600 for separating plasma, the column structure 630 can be disposed in both the injection section and the passage section. Moreover, for example, in the target substance separation device 600 for separating cells, the column structures 630 can be disposed in the injection section, the passage section, and the target substance acquisition section. For example, the column structures 630 can be disposed in the center of the channel, or disposed at appropriate intervals, or disposed between the etched structures, or the column structures 630 can be disposed at appropriate intervals in the center of the channel.

[0129] In one embodiment, the column structure 630 may be configured in a region other than the plurality of etched structures. For example, the column structure 630 may be configured between at least partially inclined structures forming the etched structures. In one embodiment, the column structure 630 should be configured without causing hemolysis and without affecting flow. Therefore, when the height of the column structure is the same as the height of the passage, and the main direction of fluid movement is set as the x-axis and the width direction of the channel is set as the y-axis, the cross-section cut in the xy-plane can be a circle, an ellipse, a streamlined shape (e.g., boat-shaped), a rounded polygon, etc. When the cross-section is a polygon, because the cross-sectional area of ​​the vertex is small, if a target object such as a cell or a non-target object impacts the vertex, the impact may cause damage due to the large amount of impact. Therefore, when the column structure 630 is a polygon including the vertex, the cross-section of the column structure 630 can be formed as a rounded polygon, and the vertex of the rounded polygon can be formed as a circle.

[0130] In one embodiment, the height of the column structure 630 can be the same as the height of the passage portion. Therefore, the column structure 630 can have the shape of a cylinder, an elliptical cylinder, a streamlined column, or a rounded polygonal column.

[0131] In one embodiment, when multiple column structures 630 are present, the spacing between the multiple column structures needs to be wider than the diameter of the particles to prevent damage to the particles. This is to prevent particle entrainment and damage from particles such as hemolysm caused by the column structures.

[0132] In one embodiment, the column structure 630 can be made of plastic. In this case, the aspect ratio (height / length of cross-section; i.e., height of the passage portion / maximum length of the cross-section) of the column structure 630 should be below a specific value. For example, when the target object separation device 600 is manufactured using the QDM (Quick Delivery Mold) method, if the aspect ratio of the column structure 630 exceeds 3, the column structure may be damaged during the manufacturing process. Therefore, the maximum length of the structure's cross-section can be determined based on the height of the passage portion. For example, when the height of the passage portion is approximately 40 μm, the maximum length of the structure's cross-section should be at least approximately 13 μm.

[0133] In one embodiment, to prevent sagging in the center of the channel, at least one column structure 630 may be provided within approximately 50% of the channel width from both ends of the channel. For example, the column structure 630 may be provided in the center of the channel, or it may be provided at approximately 33% of the channel width from both ends of the channel.

[0134] In one embodiment, to avoid affecting the flow of particles, when multiple column structures 630 are present, the spacing between the column structures 630 is wider than or the same as the length of the etched structure. According to the separation principle of the target object separation device, when a sample is injected into the device, a secondary flow (defocusing flow) is formed in the inclined direction of the etched structure, while a flow (focusing flow) occurs in the opposite direction in the passage. At this time, due to this flow in the opposite direction, the particles tend to one side of the wall, thereby separating the particles. During this process, when the column structures are spaced at a distance shorter than the length of the etched structure, the flow (defocusing flow) in the direction of the etched structure is disturbed by the column structures 630, thus weakening the flow (focusing flow) in the opposite direction and affecting the separation efficiency of the target object separation device. Therefore, the spacing between the column structures 630 can be made wider than the length of the etched structure to avoid interfering with the secondary flow.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the column structure 630 can be used to prevent the central part of the channel of the target object separation device from sagging.

[0136] Figures 7a to 7c A diagram illustrating the process of separating microparticles using a plurality of groove-shaped engraved structures according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 7a to 7c The engraved structure is disposed on the bottom surface of the channel provided in the passage portion 220.

[0137] exist Figures 7a to 7c In this paper, a particle separation device is used as an example to illustrate the separation device for the target object, but it is not limited to particle separation devices. The same embodiment can also be applied to plasma separation devices.

[0138] Reference Figures 7a to 7c The particle separation device 700 may include multiple etched structures 710, 720, and 730. The etched structures 710, 720, and 730 may be recessed structures in the form of grooves. Furthermore, the etched structures 710, 720, and 730 may have an inclined structure configuration. In one embodiment, the inclination may include an inclination of approximately 45 degrees to approximately 135 degrees relative to the main flow direction of the fluid. For example, a plasma separation device may include etched structures having an angle of approximately 70 to approximately 80 degrees, such as approximately 75 degrees. The etched structures 710, 720, and 730 have an etched configuration, i.e., a groove configuration, thus forming a flow in the main flow direction (bulk flow), like... Figure 7b Similarly, a secondary flow is formed in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid (bulk flow), therefore, like Figure 7c Similarly, lateral movement of particles can occur. Moreover, the etched structures 710, 720, and 730 can be configured in a mutually disconnected manner. The mutually disconnected etched structures 710, 720, and 730 form a recessed structure, thus exhibiting a particle focusing effect.

[0139] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement and configuration of a plurality of engraved structures according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0140] Reference Figure 8 It can form intricate patterns based on multiple engraved structures. Figure 8 In this context, the length L1 along the length direction of the fine pattern 800 is defined as the length of the engraved structure, the spacing L2 between the engraved structures is defined as the break spacing, and the width W along the longitudinal direction of the engraved structure is defined as the width of the fine pattern.

[0141] In one embodiment, the width and depth of the curved intaglio structure may vary depending on the type of target object to be separated. For example, the height, width, length, and spacing of the intaglio structure may be determined as shown in Table 1 below. The values ​​shown in Table 1 are approximate values, for example, with deviations of ±20%, ±15%, ±10%, ±5%, or ±1%.

[0142] [Table 1]

[0143] Height (μm) 20 10 20 Width (μm) 20 10 20 Length (μm) 120 50 200 Spacing (μm) 20 10 30

[0144] In one embodiment, the height, width, and spacing of the etched structure can be prepared at 0.5 to 3 times the particle diameter, based on the case where the particle size is 5 to 20 μm.

[0145] In one embodiment, the length of the curved etched structure can be prepared to be 4 to 30 times the width of the etched structure, and the spacing between the curved etched structures can be prepared to be between 0.1 and 5 times the width of the fine pattern.

[0146] Figure 9a A diagram simulating the cell separation performance of a finely patterned cell with a linear morphology according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9b A graph simulating the cell separation performance of a finely patterned shape with a curved morphology according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0147] Figure 9a and Figure 9b The differences in the separation regions of particles based on the shape of the fine pattern of the tilted structure are shown.

[0148] Figure 9a It shows a fine pattern in the form of straight lines. Figure 9b The results show that fine patterns with curved shapes exhibit superior particle separation performance when compared with fine patterns with straight and curved shapes using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics). The fine patterns with curved shapes show better separation performance due to their narrower particle separation region.

[0149] Figure 10a and Figure 10b A graph illustrating the results of experiments conducted on cell separation performance with a curved shape based on a fine pattern according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0150] Figure 10a and Figure 10b This indicates experimental results using real cells. Figure 10a To capture images using a fluorescence microscope showing how many cells are concentrated at points 13 mm, 45 mm, and 75 mm away from the inlet, while fluorescently stained cells flow through a finely patterned microfluidic channel. Figure 10a Above this is a state of concentrated cell formation within microfluidic channels with intricate patterns of curved (Cycloid) shapes. Figure 10a Below is a state of concentrated cell formation in microfluidic channels with fine patterns of straight lines.

[0151] Reference Figure 10b In the fine pattern with a curved shape, the width of the cell formation separation and concentration gradually decreases according to the length of the fine pattern, thus indicating that the separation performance is excellent compared to the straight pattern.

[0152] Figure 11aA graph illustrating the separation performance of a target object in the absence of a high-speed channel section according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11b A diagram illustrating the separation performance of a target object in the presence of a high-speed channel section according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] Reference Figure 11a and Figure 11b The color can be displayed according to the flow trajectory of the target object. The faster the speed, the red (right side of the attached diagram) indicates, and the slower the speed, the blue (left side of the attached diagram) indicates. That is, it can be confirmed that compared to in Figure 11a ,exist Figure 11b The target material flows at a faster speed through the high-speed channel section. That is, by increasing the local flow velocity through the high-speed channel section, the concentration efficiency of the particles can be improved.

[0154] The foregoing description of this disclosure is illustrative and should be understood as follows: those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains can easily modify it into other specific forms without altering the technical concept or essential features of the invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrative in all respects and not limiting. For example, constituent elements described as a single type may be implemented separately; similarly, constituent elements described as separate may be implemented in a combined form.

[0155] Compared with the detailed description described above, the scope of this disclosure is indicated by the patent claims described below, and should be interpreted as including all variations or modifications derived from the meaning and scope of the patent claims and their equivalents within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A target object separation device, characterized in that, include: An injection section, wherein a fluid containing microparticles is injected; The passage section, during the flow of the injected fluid, causes the target object to concentrate and flow in a certain direction. The passage section includes multiple engraved structures, and the multiple engraved structures have a groove shape in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid. A target object acquisition unit acquires target objects that are concentrated in the certain direction. and A high-speed channel section, which extends and is formed in at least a portion of the region between the injection section and the target object receiving section. At least one of the injection section, the passage section, and the target object acquisition section includes a pillar structure, which is disposed in a region other than the plurality of engraved structures.

2. The target object separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The target object separation device also includes a non-target object discharge section.

3. The target object separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The target object undergoes secondary flow through the multiple engraved structures in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid and concentrates in a certain direction.

4. The target object separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of engraved structures are arranged in the passage section other than the high-speed channel section.

5. The target object separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The high-speed channel section is formed as a groove-shaped channel in the depth direction on one side of the passage section corresponding to the direction of particle concentration.

6. The target object separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The high-speed channel section has a width of 0.1% to 50% of the width of the passage section.

7. The target object separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The intricate patterns formed by the multiple engraved structures have a curved shape.

8. The target object separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of engraved structures are disposed on the bottom or top surface of the target object separation device, and the plurality of engraved structures are formed in a plurality of mutually disconnected manner.

9. The target object separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multiple engraved structures form a fine pattern in the shape of straight lines. The fine pattern of the straight line has an angle of 45 to 135 degrees relative to the main flow direction of the fluid.

10. The target object separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multiple engraved structures form a fine, curved pattern, which extends from a first point (the starting point) to a second point (the ending point). The tangent at the first point has an angle of 45 to 135 degrees relative to the main flow direction of the fluid, and the tangent at the second point has an angle of 0 to 75 degrees or 105 to 180 degrees relative to the main flow direction of the fluid.

11. The target object separation device according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the target substance is white blood cells, red blood cells are obtained from the non-target substance discharge section. When the target material is plasma, blood cells are obtained from the non-target material discharge section. When the target object is a cell, the non-target object discharge section obtains a culture medium from which the cell is removed.

12. The target object separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height of the column structure corresponds to the height of the passage section. The column structure has a column shape with a cross-section of a circle, ellipse, streamline, or rounded polygon. The maximum length of the column-shaped cross-section is determined in such a way that the value obtained by dividing the height of the passage by the maximum length of the cross-section does not exceed a specific value.

13. The target object separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When multiple column structures exist, the spacing between the multiple column structures is wider or the same as the diameter of the particle to be obtained or the length of the intaglio structure.

14. A method for separating a target object from a fluid using a target object separation device, characterized in that, include: The step of injecting a fluid containing microparticles into the injection section; and The step of obtaining the target object by receiving the injected fluid in the target object acquisition section and concentrating it in a certain direction during the flow of the fluid in the passage section. The target object separation device includes a high-speed channel section that extends and forms at least a portion of the region between the injection section and the target object acquisition section. The passage section includes multiple etched structures with a groove shape in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid. At least one of the injection section, the passage section, and the target object acquisition section includes a pillar structure, which is disposed in a region other than the plurality of engraved structures.

15. The method for separating target objects according to claim 14, characterized in that, The method for separating the target object further includes the step of obtaining the non-target object in the non-target object discharge section.

16. The method for separating target objects according to claim 14, characterized in that, The target object flows through the multiple engraved structures in a direction perpendicular to the main flow direction of the fluid and concentrates in a certain direction.

Images