On-orbit microbial culture experimental payload and its culture method

Abstract

The present invention relates to the field of space technology test technology, and provides an on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload and a cultivation method thereof. The on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload includes: a test module, which is composed of a plurality of culture units, each culture unit is provided with a culture pool and a heating element for heating the culture pool, and the culture pool is connected to an infusion pipeline with a pump body; a monitoring module, which is arranged relative to the test module; and a control module, which is respectively connected to the monitoring module and the water pump and the heating element in the test module. The on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload and the cultivation method thereof provided by the present invention can realize precise control and monitoring of the microbial culture process in a microgravity environment, thereby supporting space biology research, and through this integrated design, the experimental payload can provide high-throughput experimental capabilities while ensuring the safety and reliability of the experiment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of space technology testing technology, and in particular to an on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload and a culture method thereof. Background Art

[0002] Microorganisms, with their simple structure, short growth cycle, rapid reproduction, and ease of transport, are used as biological models for studying life phenomena in space, detecting extraterrestrial life, and conducting planetary protection missions with a focus on microorganisms. With the completion of my country's space station, large-scale, multidisciplinary space science and technology experiments will be conducted. Cultivating microorganisms is a crucial prerequisite for conducting microbial research in space, such as studies on the corrosiveness of space microbial materials, mutagenesis, and drug resistance. The unique nature of the space environment places extremely high demands on the system integration, throughput, safety, and reliability of on-orbit experimental payloads. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention provides an on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload and a culture method thereof, which are used to address the defects existing in the existing technology and achieve the following technical effects: precise control and monitoring of the microbial culture process in a microgravity environment can be achieved, thereby supporting space biology research. Moreover, through this integrated design, the experimental payload can provide high-throughput experimental capabilities while ensuring the safety and reliability of the experiment.

[0004] The on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0005] The test module is composed of a plurality of culture units, each of which is provided with a culture pool and a heating element for heating the culture pool, and the culture pool is connected to an infusion pipeline with a pump body;

[0006] a monitoring module, arranged opposite to the test module, and configured to perform static or dynamic imaging of the test module to obtain information on the growth of microorganisms in the culture tank;

[0007] The control module is connected to the monitoring module and the water pump and the heating element in the test module respectively, and the control module is used to receive the microbial image data transmitted by the monitoring module and control and adjust the working state of the pump body and / or the heating element according to the microbial image data.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the monitoring module includes a plurality of cameras and a plurality of apertures, each of the cameras is provided with an aperture, and the cameras and the apertures are both connected to the control module;

[0009] The control module is used to receive the microorganism image data transmitted by the camera and adjust the working state of the aperture according to the microorganism image data.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the control module includes a power distribution computer processing circuit board, a drive control circuit board, and a control end electrical connector that are interconnected;

[0011] Among them, the power distribution computer processing circuit board is used to control the power distribution of the control module itself, the test module and the monitoring module, and is used to perform computer processing on the microbial image data; the drive control circuit board is used to control the working status of the pump body and the heating element in the test module; and the control end electrical connector is used to be electrically connected to the test module and the monitoring module respectively.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the power distribution computer processing circuit board includes a power distribution unit;

[0013] The power distribution unit comprises:

[0014] A fuse circuit comprising two fuses connected in parallel, one branch of which is connected in series with a power resistor, the resistance of the power resistor being not less than 20 times the cold resistance of the fuse;

[0015] A surge suppression circuit is built based on an N-channel switching transistor, and the surge suppression circuit controls the conduction by controlling the gate voltage and uses a soft start method to achieve the power-on surge suppression function;

[0016] EMI filter, used to filter out noise and ripple;

[0017] DC / DC converter, used to convert the high voltage of the bus into a low voltage secondary power supply;

[0018] The camera power supply circuit and the aperture power supply circuit distribute power to the camera and the aperture respectively, and both the camera power supply circuit and the aperture power supply circuit are connected to the DC / DC converter.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the power distribution computer processing circuit board further comprises a computer processing unit;

[0020] The computer processing unit comprises:

[0021] FPGA chip, used to complete Ethernet communication control, image reception and compression, external storage control, pump body switch control and heating element feedback system control;

[0022] A CPU chip, connected to the FPGA chip, for sending instructions to control the FPGA chip;

[0023] a watchdog circuit, connected to the CPU chip and the FPGA chip respectively, and used for hardware resetting the CPU chip and the FPGA chip;

[0024] An Ethernet PHY circuit, connected to the FPGA chip, for implementing the Ethernet communication protocol;

[0025] a camerlink receiver, configured to receive microbial image data captured by the camera;

[0026] An SDRAM external memory circuit is connected to the camerlink receiver and the FPGA chip, respectively, and is used to cache the microorganism image data;

[0027] The EEPROM memory chip is connected to the CPU chip and is used to store CPU programs.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the drive control circuit board includes:

[0029] A pump driving circuit is connected to the FPGA chip, and the FPGA chip controls the on / off state of the pump and its operating parameters through a level conversion circuit;

[0030] The heating element control circuit is connected to the FPGA chip, and the FPGA chip controls the switch of the heating element and the heating parameters thereof through a level conversion circuit.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the culture unit comprises:

[0032] The sealed culture tank is provided with the heating element on the outside of the culture tank;

[0033] A storage tank and a turnover membrane, wherein the storage tank is connected to the culture tank; the turnover membrane is arranged in the storage tank to separate the inner cavity of the storage tank into a sealed liquid storage cavity and a gas storage cavity;

[0034] A liquid infusion pipeline and an air outlet pipeline, the culture pool is connected to the liquid storage cavity via the liquid infusion pipeline, and the culture pool is connected to the air storage cavity via the air outlet pipeline, and the pump body is installed on the liquid infusion pipeline.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the on-orbit microbial cultivation experiment payload further includes:

[0036] A payload box is formed with a box space inside, wherein an installation interlayer spanning the box space is installed in the payload box, and the installation interlayer divides the box space into an installation cavity and a culture cavity;

[0037] The control module is installed in the interlayer cavity inside the installation interlayer, the camera passes through the installation interlayer, the camera body is located in the installation cavity, and the camera head of the camera is located in the culture cavity; the test module is installed in the culture cavity, and the culture unit is arranged opposite to the camera head.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the outer wall surface of the mounting interlayer facing the culture chamber forms a mounting reference surface, and all the culture units of the test module are arranged opposite to the mounting reference surface;

[0039] The camera is fixed on the installation reference surface, and a fixing hole communicating with the interlayer cavity is further provided on the installation reference surface, and the control end electrical connector of the control module is fixed in the fixing hole.

[0040] According to a second embodiment of the present invention, a cultivation method for the on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload based on the first embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0041] After microbial cultivation begins, acquiring microbial image data captured by the monitoring module and processing the microbial image data to generate microbial growth information;

[0042] The working state of the pump body and / or the heating element is controlled and adjusted according to the microbial growth information.

[0043] The present invention's on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload enables precise control and monitoring of the microbial cultivation process in a microgravity environment, thereby supporting space biology research, such as studies on the corrosiveness of microbial materials, the mutagenesis of space microorganisms, and drug resistance. Through this integrated design, the experimental payload provides high-throughput experimental capabilities while ensuring experimental safety and reliability.

[0044] In summary, the on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload according to the embodiment of the present invention has the following advantages and special features in a microgravity environment: (1) System integration: It integrates the three modules of control, testing and monitoring, realizes the full process automation of the on-orbit microbial culture experiment, reduces the dependence on astronaut operations, and improves the experimental efficiency. (2) High-throughput experimental capability: It can simultaneously support the microbial culture of multiple independent culture units. It is understandable that because the traditional gravity-dependent culture method is no longer applicable in a weightless state, the above scheme can ensure independent temperature control and nutrient supply in a microgravity environment. (3) Dynamic monitoring and control: The monitoring module can capture the growth of microorganisms in the culture tank in real time and dynamically adjust the experimental conditions through the control module to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the experiment. It is understandable that because microgravity affects the natural convection and sedimentation of substances, the above real-time feedback mechanism is particularly critical in a microgravity environment. (4) Precise temperature control: In a microgravity environment, the convection and sedimentation patterns of substances change. The experimental payload provides a microbial growth environment through precise temperature control, which can study the physiological changes of microorganisms under weightless conditions. (5) Safety Design: The test module adopts a double sealing design, with the inner layer meeting the liquid-tight requirements and the outer layer meeting the air-tight requirements, ensuring the biological safety of the experiment. At the same time, the high-temperature sterilization function can thoroughly disinfect the culture unit after the experiment to prevent microbial contamination. (6) Versatility and Modular Design: The experimental payload adopts a modular design, which can be quickly modified and upgraded according to different experimental needs, improving the flexibility and adaptability of on-orbit experiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the present invention or the prior art, a brief introduction is given below to the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the components of the on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload provided by the present invention;

[0047] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload provided by the present invention;

[0048] Figure 3 This is one of the three-dimensional schematic diagrams of the on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload provided by the present invention;

[0049] Figure 4 This is the second three-dimensional schematic diagram of the on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload provided by the present invention;

[0050] Figure 5 This is the third 3D schematic diagram of the on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload provided by the present invention;

[0051] Figure 6 This is one of the structural diagrams of the culture unit provided by the present invention;

[0052] Figure 7 This is the second structural diagram of the culture unit provided by the present invention;

[0053] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the culture unit provided by the present invention;

[0054] Figure 9 It is a schematic structural diagram of the culture pool provided by the present invention;

[0055] Figure 10 It is a flow chart of the control method of the on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload provided by the present invention.

[0056] Reference numerals:

[0057] 01. Test module; 011. First test module; 012. Second test module; 013. Third test module; 02. Monitoring module; 021. First camera; 022. Second camera; 023. Third camera; 024. First aperture; 025. Second aperture; 026. Third aperture; 03. Control module; 031. Power distribution computer processing circuit board; 032. Drive control circuit board; 033. Control end electrical connector; 04. Load box; 041. Mounting chamber; 042. Culture chamber; 043. Mounting interlayer; 044. Mounting reference surface;

[0058] 1. Culture tank; 101. First flange; 102. Second flange; 103. Second accommodating cavity; 104. First support column; 1041. Connecting hole; 105. Second support column; 1051. Liquid inlet channel; 106. Air outlet; 107. First connecting tube; 108. Second connecting tube; 109. Connecting column; 2. Storage tank; 201. Liquid storage cavity; 202. Third connecting tube; 203. Fourth connecting tube; 204. Tank body; 205. Cover; 206. Third connecting portion;

[0059] 3. Flip membrane; 301. Protrusion; 4. First accommodating chamber; 5. Heating element; 6. Insulation block; 7. Electrical connector; 8. Sample holder; 801. Flow gap; 9. Compression frame; 10. Window; 11. Pump body; 12. Insulation cushion; 121. Fixing ring; 122. First connecting part; 13. Wire harness seat; 131. First wire harness hole; 132. Second wire harness hole; 14. Connecting frame; 141. Second connecting part; 142. Weight reduction hole. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention more clear, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of them. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0061] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operate in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as limiting the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first", "second", and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0062] In the embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, a first feature being "above" or "below" a second feature may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, a first feature being "above," "above," or "above" a second feature may mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a higher level than the second feature. A first feature being "below," "below," or "below" a second feature may mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a lower level than the second feature.

[0063] In the description of this specification, the reference terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example", or "some examples" mean that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiment of the present invention. In this specification, the schematic representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described can be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner. In addition, those skilled in the art can combine and combine different embodiments or examples described in this specification and features of different embodiments or examples without contradiction.

[0064] The following describes a microbial culture test load and a control method thereof provided by the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be pointed out that the control method introduced in the embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention is implemented based on the microbial culture test load of the embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention as a structural basis.

[0065] like Figures 1 to 9 As shown, the on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a test module 01, a monitoring module 02 and a control module 03.

[0066] The test module 01 is composed of multiple culture units, each of which is provided with a culture pool 1 and a heating element 5 for heating the culture pool 1. The culture pool 1 is connected to a liquid infusion pipeline with a pump body 11;

[0067] The monitoring module 02 is arranged opposite to the test module 01, and the monitoring module 02 is used to perform static or dynamic imaging of the test module 01 to obtain the growth information of microorganisms in the culture tank 1;

[0068] The control module 03 is connected to the monitoring module 02 and the water pump and the heating element 5 in the test module 01 respectively, and the control module 03 is used to receive the microbial image data transmitted by the monitoring module 02, and control and adjust the working state of the pump body 11 and / or the heating element 5 according to the microbial image data.

[0069] It is understood that the on-orbit microbial cultivation experiment payload of the present invention is a highly integrated system designed specifically for conducting microbial cultivation experiments in an on-orbit space environment. It consists of three main parts:

[0070] Test Module 01 is the core component of the on-orbit microbial cultivation experiment payload and consists of multiple cultivation units. Each cultivation unit contains a culture tank 1 for holding microbial culture medium. The culture tank 1 is connected to a pump 11 via a fluid delivery pipeline to deliver nutrients to the culture tank 1. Furthermore, each culture tank 1 is equipped with a heater 5 to maintain a suitable temperature to promote microbial growth.

[0071] Monitoring module 02, located opposite test module 01, is responsible for real-time monitoring of test module 01. It uses static or dynamic imaging technology to capture the growth of microorganisms within culture tank 1 and transmits this image data to control module 03. Monitoring module 02 may include multiple cameras and LED apertures to ensure clear observation of culture tank 1 under various lighting conditions.

[0072] The control module 03 is the brain of the experimental payload. It receives image data from the monitoring module 02 and, based on this data, adjusts the operating conditions of the pump 11 and heating element 5 in the test module 01. This allows the control module 03 to precisely control the microbial culture environment, ensuring the smooth progress of the experiment. The control module 03 may include a computer processing circuit board, a drive control circuit board 032, and a control-end electrical connector 033, enabling comprehensive control of the experimental payload.

[0073] The on-orbit microbial cultivation experiment payload according to an embodiment of the present invention operates as follows: The control module 03 receives instructions and drives the pump 11 via the control circuit board 032 to inject an appropriate amount of culture fluid into the culture tank 1 of the culture unit. The control module 03 also controls the heater 5 to adjust the temperature of the culture tank 1 according to experimental needs, ensuring a suitable temperature environment for microbial growth. The camera in the monitoring module 02 captures static and dynamic images of the test module 01, capturing the growth of microorganisms within the culture tank 1. The LED aperture provides illumination to ensure clear images. The monitoring module 02 transmits the captured image data to the control module 03. The control module 03 receives the image data and may perform preliminary processing, such as compression, to reduce the data transmission volume. Based on the image data returned by the monitoring module 02, the control module 03 adjusts the operating conditions of the pump 11 and heater 5 to optimize microbial growth conditions. During the experiment, the control module 03 may need to adjust the nutrient supply and temperature based on the microbial growth status to achieve dynamic control.

[0074] It's important to note that the present invention's on-orbit microbial cultivation payload enables precise control and monitoring of the microbial cultivation process in a microgravity environment, thereby supporting space biology research, such as studies on the corrosiveness of microbial materials, the mutagenesis of space microorganisms, and drug resistance. Through this integrated design, the payload provides high-throughput experimental capabilities while ensuring safety and reliability.

[0075] In summary, the on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload according to the embodiment of the present invention has the following advantages and special features in a microgravity environment: (1) System integration: It integrates the three modules of control, testing and monitoring, realizes the full process automation of the on-orbit microbial culture experiment, reduces the dependence on astronaut operations, and improves the experimental efficiency. (2) High-throughput experimental capability: It can simultaneously support the microbial culture of multiple independent culture units. It is understandable that because the traditional gravity-dependent culture method is no longer applicable in a weightless state, the above scheme can ensure independent temperature control and nutrient supply in a microgravity environment. (3) Dynamic monitoring and control: The monitoring module 02 can capture the microbial growth status in the culture tank 1 in real time, and dynamically adjust the experimental conditions through the control module 03 to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the experiment. It is understandable that because microgravity affects the natural convection and sedimentation of substances, the above real-time feedback mechanism is particularly critical in a microgravity environment. (4) Precise temperature control: In a microgravity environment, the convection and sedimentation patterns of substances change. The experimental payload can study the physiological changes of microorganisms under weightless conditions by precisely controlling the temperature and microbial growth environment. (5) Safety Design: The experimental payload adopts a double sealing design, with the inner layer meeting the liquid-tight requirements and the outer layer meeting the air-tight requirements, ensuring the biological safety of the experiment. At the same time, the high-temperature sterilization function can thoroughly disinfect the culture unit after the experiment to prevent microbial contamination. (6) Versatility and Modular Design: The experimental payload adopts a modular design, which can be quickly modified and upgraded according to different experimental needs, improving the flexibility and adaptability of on-orbit experiments.

[0076] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the monitoring module 02 includes several cameras and several apertures, each camera is provided with an aperture, and both the camera and the aperture are connected to the control module 03.

[0077] The control module 03 is used to receive the microorganism image data transmitted by the camera and adjust the working state of the aperture according to the microorganism image data.

[0078] In this embodiment, the monitoring module 02 is equipped with multiple cameras to facilitate simultaneous or continuous monitoring of multiple culture units in the test module 01. Each camera is equipped with an aperture to adjust the amount of light entering the camera to ensure image quality.

[0079] The aperture on each camera can be adjusted independently, allowing precise control of the lighting conditions in each culture unit based on the growth status and lighting requirements of the microorganisms within the culture unit. As can be seen, since lighting conditions can affect the metabolic activity and growth patterns of some microorganisms, aperture adjustment is crucial for observing microbial growth in microgravity.

[0080] like Figure 1 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the control module 03 includes a power distribution computer processing circuit board 031, a drive control circuit board 032 and a control end electrical connector 033 that are interconnected.

[0081] Among them, the power distribution computer processing circuit board 031 is used to control the power distribution of the control module 03 itself, the test module 01 and the monitoring module 02, and is used to perform computer processing on the microbial image data; the drive control circuit board 032 is used to control the working status of the pump body 11 and the heating element 5 in the test module 01; and the control end electrical connector is used to connect to the test module 01 and the monitoring module 02 respectively by telecommunication.

[0082] In the device of the present invention, the control module 03 is used for control of power supply and distribution, drive control, communication control, image reception, compression and storage of the experimental load, as well as intelligent temperature control of the test module 01 and liquid delivery control of the test module 01.

[0083] Among them, the power distribution computer processing circuit board 031 is mainly responsible for power distribution control of the control module 03 itself, the test module 01 and the monitoring module 02 to ensure that each module has a stable power supply. In addition, the power distribution computer processing circuit board 031 is also responsible for computer processing of microbial image data, specifically including image acquisition, storage, compression and transmission, as well as possible image analysis, in order to better understand the growth status of microorganisms.

[0084] The drive control circuit board 032 is used to control the pump body 11 and the heating element 5 in the test module 01 to achieve precise control of the nutrient supply and temperature in the culture unit.

[0085] Control-end electrical connector 033 serves as a telecommunications connection between control module 03 and both test module 01 and monitoring module 02, ensuring the transmission of data and control signals. Furthermore, this connector enables control module 03 to communicate with test module 01 and monitoring module 02, thereby enabling remote monitoring and control of the experimental process.

[0086] like Figure 1 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the power distribution computer processing circuit board 031 includes a power distribution unit, which includes a fuse circuit, a surge suppression circuit, an EMI filter, a DC / DC converter, a camera power supply circuit, and an aperture power supply circuit. Thus, the power distribution unit, as the core component of the power distribution computer processing circuit board 031, can convert bus power to the various voltage levels required by the experimental load for use by the control module 03, the test module 01, and the monitoring module 02.

[0087] In some specific embodiments, the fuse circuit includes two parallel fuses, one branch of which is connected in series with a power resistor whose resistance is not less than 20 times the cold resistance of the fuse. In this way, the fuse circuit can protect the circuit from overloads and short circuits. The power resistor in series with one branch helps provide additional protection against sudden current increases, ensuring circuit safety.

[0088] In some specific embodiments, the surge suppression circuit is built around an N-channel switching transistor. The circuit controls the gate voltage to control conduction and utilizes a soft-start mechanism to suppress power-on surges. This allows the circuit to suppress inrush current generated during power-on, achieving a soft-start function and reducing impact on the circuit, thereby protecting electronic equipment.

[0089] In some specific embodiments, the EMI filter is used to filter out noise and ripples, so that the noise and ripples on the bus can be filtered out and the reflected noise of the system can be controlled to prevent interference with the bus.

[0090] In some specific embodiments, a DC / DC converter is used to convert the high-voltage busbar voltage into a low-voltage secondary power supply. The camera power supply circuit and the aperture power supply circuit distribute power to the camera and aperture, respectively, and both are connected to the DC / DC converter. Thus, the DC / DC converter converts the input high voltage (e.g., 100V busbar power) into the low voltages required by the experimental load (e.g., +5V, +12V, and +24V), thereby providing appropriate power to the camera power supply circuit and the aperture power supply circuit. For example, the camera power supply circuit uses +12V, while the aperture power supply circuit uses +24V.

[0091] like Figure 1 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the power distribution computer processing circuit board 031 further includes a computer processing unit, which includes a CPU chip, an FPGA chip, a watchdog circuit, an Ethernet PHY circuit, a CameraLink receiving circuit, an SDRAM external memory circuit, and an EEPROM memory chip. It is understood that the main functions of the computer processing unit are communication control, image reception, compression, storage, and other control functions.

[0092] In some specific embodiments, the FPGA chip is used to implement Ethernet communication control, image reception and compression, external storage control, on / off control of the pump body 11, and feedback system control of the heating element 5. In this way, the field programmable gate array (FPGA) chip is used to perform complex logic functions. The flexibility of the FPGA allows it to be programmed according to experimental requirements to adapt to different tasks.

[0093] In some specific embodiments, the CPU chip is connected to the FPGA chip to send instructions to control the FPGA chip. It can be understood that the CPU chip is the core of the entire system, processing instructions from the ground control center and making decisions based on experimental requirements.

[0094] In some specific embodiments, a watchdog circuit is connected to the CPU chip and the FPGA chip, respectively, and is used to hardware reset the CPU chip and the FPGA chip. In this embodiment, the purpose of the watchdog circuit is to establish a safety mechanism for monitoring the operating status of the CPU and FPGA. Specifically, if an anomaly is detected, the watchdog circuit triggers a hardware reset to ensure stable system operation.

[0095] In some specific embodiments, an Ethernet PHY circuit is connected to an FPGA chip to implement the Ethernet communication protocol. Thus, the Ethernet PHY circuit is a physical layer Ethernet interface. By connecting to the FPGA chip, the Ethernet communication protocol can be implemented, ensuring that the experimental payload can exchange data with the space station's network system or other equipment.

[0096] In some specific embodiments, the camerlink receiver is used to receive microorganism image data captured by the camera.

[0097] In some specific embodiments, an SDRAM external memory circuit is connected to the camerlink receiver and the FPGA chip, respectively, for caching microorganism image data.

[0098] In some specific embodiments, an EEPROM memory chip is connected to the CPU chip and is used to store CPU programs. It is understood that EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a non-volatile memory that can retain data after power failure, ensuring that the correct program can be loaded when the system starts.

[0099] In summary, through the collaborative operation of the various components within the aforementioned computer processing unit, the power distribution computer processing circuit board 031 can efficiently process and control various operations of the experimental payload, including data acquisition, communication, storage, and precise control of experimental conditions. This design not only improves the intelligence level of the experimental payload but also enhances its reliability and flexibility in complex space environments.

[0100] like Figure 1 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the drive control circuit board 032 includes a pump body drive circuit, a filter circuit and a heating element control circuit.

[0101] The pump drive circuit is connected to the FPGA chip, which controls the on / off switching and operating parameters of the pump 11 through a level conversion circuit. The heater control circuit is connected to the FPGA circuit, which controls the on / off switching and heating parameters of the heater 5 through a level conversion circuit.

[0102] In this embodiment, the main function of the drive control circuit board 032 is to drive the opening and closing of the pump body 11 and the heating element 5 in the test module 01, and to control the parameter states of the two, thereby completing the liquid injection and temperature control of each culture unit in the test module 01.

[0103] The pump drive circuit is connected to the FPGA chip and is responsible for controlling the start and stop of the pump 11, as well as adjusting its operating parameters, such as flow rate and pressure, to precisely control the nutrient supply within the culture unit. The filter circuit stabilizes the power supply, reduces power supply noise, and ensures stable operation of the pump 11 and other sensitive electronic devices. The heater control circuit, also connected to the FPGA chip, controls the on / off state of the heater 5 and heating parameters, such as temperature setting and heating power, to precisely control the heater 5 and ensure the temperature of the culture environment remains within a range suitable for microbial growth.

[0104] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the on-orbit microbial culture experiment payload further includes a payload box 04. A box space is formed inside the payload box 04, and an installation interlayer 043 is installed inside the payload box, spanning the box space. The installation interlayer 043 divides the box space into an installation cavity 041 and a culture cavity 042.

[0105] The control module 03 is installed in the interlayer cavity inside the installation interlayer 043, the camera passes through the installation interlayer 043, the camera body is located in the installation cavity 041, and the camera head is located in the culture cavity 042; the test module 01 is installed in the culture cavity 042, and the culture unit is arranged opposite to the camera head.

[0106] In this embodiment, a cross-mounting interlayer 043 is installed in the box space, which divides the box space into two parts: an installation cavity 041 for installing the camera body and a culture cavity 042 for installing the test module 01. The interlayer cavity inside the box is used to accommodate and install the control module 03, which helps to protect the control module 03 from the influence of the external environment and facilitates astronauts to perform maintenance and operation.

[0107] This layered design allows the experimental payload to precisely control the microbial culture environment within a limited space, while providing the camera with an optimal observation position. This design is particularly important in a space-constrained environment like the space station, as it allows the experimental payload to efficiently culture and monitor microorganisms within a compact space.

[0108] like Figure 4 As shown, further, the outer wall surface of the installation interlayer 043 facing the culture cavity 042 forms an installation reference surface 044, and all the culture units of the test module 01 are arranged opposite to the installation reference surface 044.

[0109] In this way, mounting datum surface 044 provides a standardized mounting location for the culture units in test module 01, ensuring consistent layout and alignment across the space station. Specifically, all culture units in test module 01 are positioned relative to mounting datum surface 044. This layout facilitates precise positioning of the culture units, ensuring that each can be accurately monitored by the camera, while also facilitating operation and maintenance by astronauts.

[0110] like Figure 4 As shown, further, the camera is fixed on the installation reference surface 044, and the installation reference surface 044 is also provided with a fixing hole connected to the interlayer cavity, and the control end electrical connector 033 is fixed in the fixing hole.

[0111] In this way, the camera is fixed to the mounting reference surface 044, ensuring that it remains stable in the microgravity environment of the space station, enabling it to continuously and accurately capture the growth of microorganisms within the culture unit. Furthermore, the control-end electrical connector 033 within the fixing hole enables, on the one hand, an electrical connection between the control module 03 and the test module 01, and, on the other hand, enables communication between the control module 03 and the pump body 11 and heating element 5 in the test module 01, achieving precise control of the culture conditions. In summary, the above design simplifies electrical wiring, reduces potential points of failure, and maintains the compactness and reliability of the system.

[0112] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the number of test modules 01 is not limited to one group. Similarly, the number of control-end electrical connectors 033 and cameras is also not limited to one group. That is, the number of test modules 01 can be two or more groups, and the number of control-end electrical connectors 033 and cameras can also be two or more groups. The number of test modules 01, control-end electrical connectors 033, and cameras are equal and their positions correspond.

[0113] like Figures 2 to 5As shown, in a specific embodiment, there are three groups of test modules 01 , control end electrical connectors 033 and cameras. Each group of control end electrical connectors 033 includes two separate control end electrical connectors 033 .

[0114] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, test module 01 is used to load microbial samples and is a functional area for microbial culture experiments, supporting astronauts' on-orbit removal and installation. It mainly consists of the test module 01 housing, the culture unit, and the test module 01 electrical connector 7. Test module 01 includes a first test module 011, a second test module 012, and a third test module 013, which are arranged in sequence along the length of the installation interlayer 043. Three sets of control-end electrical connectors 033 are also arranged in sequence along the length of the installation interlayer 043, corresponding to the three sets of test modules respectively.

[0115] The first test module 011 is connected to two control-end electrical connectors 033 in the same group. The first test module 011 includes 16 independent culture units. The independent culture units can be individually temperature-controlled through the control module 03, with a temperature control range of 25°C-43°C and an accuracy of ±1°C. The independent culture units can also be individually injected with liquid through the control module 03, with an adjustable liquid injection volume range of 0.5mL-3.0mL, and time-sharing injection is also supported. The independent culture units are controlled by the control module 03 to provide the nutrient supply, temperature control and humidity conditions required for microbial growth, and are replenished according to experimental needs to achieve dynamic control of the microbial on-orbit experiment process.

[0116] The second test module 012 is connected to two control-end electrical connectors 033, which form the same group. The second test module 012 comprises two main sections, one consisting of three independently configured, larger culture units, and the other consisting of eight independently configured, smaller culture units. Each culture unit can be individually temperature-controlled by the control module 03, within a range of 25-43°C and an accuracy of ±1°C. The nutrient supply and temperature control for each culture unit within the second test module 012 are similar to those for the first test module 011 and will not be further described here.

[0117] The third test module 013 is connected to two control-end electrical connectors 033 in the same group. The first test module 011 includes 16 independent culture units and has a structure basically the same as that of the second test module 012. The nutrient supply and temperature control of each culture unit in the third test module 013 are also similar to those of the first test module 011. Therefore, the present invention will not elaborate on the structure and function of the third test module 013.

[0118] like Figures 2 to 5As shown, monitoring module 02 primarily comprises a first camera 021, a second camera 022, and a third camera 023, arranged in sequence along the length of mounting interlayer 043. The camera head of first camera 021 is positioned opposite first test module 011, the camera head of second camera 022 is positioned opposite second test module 012, and the camera head of third camera 023 is positioned opposite third test module 013. Furthermore, the cameras of first camera 021, second camera 022, and third camera 023 are respectively equipped with a first aperture 024, a second aperture 025, and a third aperture 026.

[0119] Controlled by control module 03, first camera 021 performs both static and dynamic imaging of first test module 011. The static imaging resolution is 2464×2056, and the dynamic imaging frame rate is 1 fps. Dynamic image data is also compressible, with a compression ratio of 16:1. The focal length of first camera 021 is 5 mm, and the object distance does not exceed 100 mm, allowing it to capture the entirety of first test module 011.

[0120] The second camera 022 is controlled by the control module 03 to perform static imaging and dynamic imaging on the second test module 012, and the third camera 023 is controlled by the control module 03 to perform static imaging and dynamic imaging on the third test module 013. The configuration of the second camera 022 and the third camera 023 is the same as that of the first camera 021, and will not be repeated here.

[0121] The first aperture 024 is controlled by the control module 03 to provide imaging illumination for the first camera 021 and can adjust the illumination intensity of the microorganisms in the first test module 011; the second aperture 025 is controlled by the control module 03 to provide imaging illumination for the second camera 022 and can adjust the illumination intensity of the microorganisms in the second test module 012; the third aperture 026 is controlled by the control module 03 to provide imaging illumination for the third camera 023 and can adjust the illumination intensity of the microorganisms in the third test module 013.

[0122] The following describes various embodiments of the structure of the in-device test module 01 of the present invention.

[0123] like Figures 6 to 9 As shown, the culture unit of the embodiment of the present invention mainly includes three parts: a culture component, a gas-liquid storage component, and a transmission component.

[0124] The culture assembly includes a sealed culture tank 1 for microbial culture experiments. The sealed culture tank 1 design ensures that the microbial experiment process will not cause pollution to the external environment, while preventing the external environment from affecting the experimental process.

[0125] The gas-liquid storage component includes a storage tank 2 and a flip membrane 3. The storage tank 2 is connected to the culture tank 1, and a first accommodating chamber 4 is constructed between the storage tank 2 and the culture tank 1. By constructing the first accommodating chamber 4, the transmission component can be installed to achieve a compact structure, which is conducive to the miniaturization of the overall structure; the flip membrane 3 is arranged in the storage tank 2 to separate the inner cavity of the storage tank 2 into a sealed liquid storage chamber 201 and a gas storage chamber. By dividing the interior of the storage tank 2 into two independent and enclosed spaces, effective isolation of the culture liquid in the liquid storage chamber 201 and the gas in the gas storage chamber is achieved.

[0126] The transmission component is arranged in the first accommodating chamber 4, including an infusion pipe and an air outlet pipe. The culture tank 1 is connected to the liquid storage chamber 201 through the infusion pipe. The infusion pipe is responsible for transporting culture fluid from the liquid storage chamber 201 to the culture tank 1 to activate the microbial culture. The culture fluid can be distilled water, aqueous solution or nutrient solution, etc.; the culture tank 1 is connected to the gas storage chamber through the air outlet pipe, and the air outlet pipe allows the excess gas in the culture tank 1 to flow into the gas storage chamber, thereby forming a closed gas-liquid circulation system.

[0127] Specifically, the infusion pipeline can transfer the culture liquid in the liquid storage cavity 201 of the storage tank 2 to the culture tank 1 to provide nutrients for the growth of microorganisms. While the liquid is being transported, since the culture tank 1 and the storage tank 2 are both sealed structures, the culture liquid increases the pressure inside the cavity of the culture tank 1, thereby causing the gas in the culture tank 1 to flow autonomously into the gas storage cavity of the storage tank 2 through the outlet pipeline, forcing the flip membrane 3 to deform and flip, thereby relieving the pressure in the cavity of the culture tank 1 to ensure the pressure balance inside the entire device and effectively improve the safety of the experiment.

[0128] It is understandable that the design of the reversal membrane 3 of the present invention cleverly utilizes liquid pressure. When the gas in the gas storage chamber increases and generates pressure, it will compress the reversal membrane 3 to deform, achieving autonomous pressure relief, thereby maintaining the pressure balance inside the entire device.

[0129] The culture unit provided in the embodiment of the present invention can effectively control the progress of the on-orbit microbial culture experiment by utilizing the culture liquid in the transport storage tank 2 as the activation condition for microbial culture in the culture tank 1; and the pressure inside the device can be automatically released by flipping the membrane 3, without the need for additional operation and auxiliary equipment, thereby simplifying the device structure, facilitating the miniaturization of the overall structure, improving the convenience of operation, and achieving the gas-liquid circulation balance requirement inside the rigid and sealed device, thereby ensuring safety.

[0130] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 8 As shown, the reversible membrane 3 is provided with a protrusion 301 protruding toward the gas storage cavity. The protrusion 301 can be a hemispherical surface with a curved surface. When the gas in the gas storage cavity presses the protrusion 301, it can be deformed and reversed, completely concave to the side of the liquid storage cavity 201.

[0131] In this embodiment of the present invention, a hemispherical protrusion 301 is provided on the invertible membrane 3, protruding toward the gas storage chamber. This unique and ingenious design enhances the pressure-relieving performance of the invertible membrane 3: during actual operation, as microorganisms grow and multiply in the culture tank 1, a certain amount of gas is generated. When the gas pressure increases to a certain level, it acts on the protrusion 301 of the invertible membrane 3. Because the protrusion 301 adopts a hemispherical design, it is highly responsive to gas pressure and can more effectively convert the pressure it receives into deformation energy, allowing the protrusion 301 to flexibly incline and invert toward the liquid storage chamber 201.

[0132] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the turnover film 3 is preferably a silicone turnover film.

[0133] It can be understood that silicone is a polymer elastomer material with good high and low temperature resistance and excellent chemical stability, and the silicone flip film has excellent flexibility and elasticity, excellent air tightness and liquid tightness.

[0134] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6-Figure 8 As shown, the culture assembly further includes components such as a heater 5, multiple insulation blocks 6, a temperature sensor, and an electrical connector 7. The heater 5 is coated on the outer wall of the culture tank 1 and is used to heat the culture tank cavity to provide the temperature required for microbial growth. Multiple insulation blocks 6 are spaced apart around the outside of the heater 5 to provide thermal insulation. The temperature sensor is located on the outside of the bottom of the culture tank 1 and is used to detect the temperature of the culture tank cavity. The electrical connector 7 is located in the first accommodating chamber 4 and is connected to the pump body 11, the heater 5, and the temperature sensor, respectively. It is used to receive remote commands and control the microbial culture process, including real-time temperature acquisition, heating membrane control, and pump control.

[0135] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the heating element 5 is preferably a polyimide heating film, the height of the heating element 5 is 18 mm, the unfolded length is 90 mm, and the power consumption is 1 W.

[0136] In the embodiment of the present invention, the polyimide material is very suitable for making heating elements in spacecraft due to its excellent properties, such as high temperature resistance, high insulation, high mechanical strength, good chemical stability and strong thermal stability.

[0137] In terms of specific parameter settings, the heating element 5 is 18mm high and 90mm long. This size design can effectively fit and cover the outer wall of the culture tank 1, ensuring that heat is evenly distributed throughout the culture area and meeting the temperature conditions required for microbial growth. The power consumption is designed to be 1W, which not only ensures heating efficiency but also takes into account the limited energy supply of the space station, achieving the goal of low-power and high-efficiency heating, which is conducive to the long-term stable operation and energy management of on-orbit equipment. This precise and energy-saving design concept is of great significance for experimental equipment in space environments.

[0138] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6-Figure 8 As shown, a first flange 101 and a second flange 102 are respectively provided at both ends of the culture tank 1 , and a second accommodating cavity 103 is constructed between the first flange 101 and the second flange 102 ; the heating element 5 and the insulation block 6 are located in the second accommodating cavity 103 .

[0139] In this embodiment, a first flange 101 and a second flange 102 are specifically designed at the top and bottom ends of the culture tank 1. These two flanges are arranged opposite each other to form an independent second accommodating cavity 103. The heating element 5 and the insulation block 6 are cleverly placed within this second accommodating cavity 103. This arrangement allows the heating assembly to form a nested space-utilizing structure with the main body of the culture tank.

[0140] This design ensures that the heating element 5 is in close contact with and effectively heats the culture tank 1. On the other hand, the heat insulating block 6 can effectively prevent heat from being lost to the outside of the device while not occupying the space inside the culture tank 1, thereby ensuring the effectiveness and stability of the microbial culture environment. In addition, integrating the heating assembly (heating element 5 and heat insulating block 6) into the second accommodating cavity 103 between the end flanges of the culture tank 1 not only realizes the integration of functional modules, but also greatly saves space resources, which is conducive to the miniaturization and lightweighting of the entire microbial test module and adapts to the strict restrictions on equipment volume and weight in the space environment.

[0141] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6-Figure 8As shown, the culture assembly further includes components such as a sample holder 8, a compression frame 9, and a viewing window 10. The sample holder 8 is detachably mounted within the culture tank 1. The sample holder 8 is provided with fixing holes for securing the test material sheet to the sample holder 8 via two fixing screws. The fixing screws are M2 screws with washers and gaskets. The test material sheet is a metal or non-metallic sheet. The test microorganisms are inoculated on the surface of the test material sheet. The sample holder 8 is provided with a flow gap 801 to facilitate gas-liquid circulation within the culture tank 1. The compression frame 9 is detachably connected to the first flange 101 at the top of the culture tank 1. The viewing window 10 is disposed between the first flange 101 at the top of the culture tank 1 and the compression frame 9. The test microorganisms may be of the genera Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, Bacillus, Micrococcus, and / or Pseudomonas.

[0142] The design of the culture assembly of the embodiment of the present invention further introduces key components such as a sample holder 8, a pressing frame 9 and a viewing window 10.

[0143] The sample holder 8 is removably mounted within the culture tank 1 and has pre-set fixing holes to securely hold the test material. The sample holder 8 is also designed with a flow gap 801 to ensure free flow of gas and liquid within the culture tank 1, facilitating full contact between the microorganisms and the nutrient solution, allowing them to metabolize.

[0144] The compression frame 9 is also detachable and is connected to the first flange 101 at the top of the culture tank 1. The compression frame 9 is used to firmly position the window 10 and to seal the window 10 to ensure the integrity of the culture environment and prevent liquid leakage or gas escape.

[0145] The viewing window 10 is provided between the first flange 101 at the top of the culture tank 1 and the pressing frame 9 , so that researchers can observe the growth of microorganisms on the sample holder 8 and the changes in the entire culture process through the viewing window 10 without opening the device.

[0146] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the window 10 is preferably a polycarbonate window.

[0147] It can be understood that polycarbonate has excellent light transmittance, extremely high impact strength, relatively low density and good weather resistance, and is easy to process into various shapes and sizes to adapt to complex spatial structure requirements. The wear resistance and scratch resistance can be improved through surface treatment.

[0148] Therefore, the embodiment of the present invention selects polycarbonate as the window material, which not only meets the visualization requirements during the microbial culture experiment, but also fully considers the strict requirements on materials in the space environment.

[0149] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the culture tank 1 and the pressing frame 9 are preferably made of aluminum alloy, which can significantly reduce the mass of the entire test module and meet the requirements of spacecraft for strict control of payload weight.

[0150] In this specific example, threaded holes are provided at the four corners of the first flange 101 at the top of the culture tank 1, the compression frame 9, and the viewing window 10, respectively, for fastening and assembling using four M2 screws. In actual practice, sealing gaskets can be provided at the joints to ensure the sealing of the culture tank 1.

[0151] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 9 As shown, the interior of the culture tank 1 is provided with a first support column 104 and a second support column 105 distributed at intervals, the first support column 104 is provided with a connecting hole 1041, and the second support column 105 is provided with a liquid inlet channel 1051; the sample holder 8 is located on the first support column 104 and the second support column 105, the sample holder 8 is connected to the connecting hole 1041 of the first support column 104 via a fastener, and the infusion pipeline is connected to the flow gap 801 of the sample holder 8 via the liquid inlet channel 1051 of the second support column 105; and an air outlet 106 is provided at the bottom of the culture tank 1, and the air outlet 106 is connected to the air outlet pipeline.

[0152] For example, two first support columns 104 and one second support column 105 are respectively located on opposite sides of the culture tank 1 , which is beneficial to improving the stability of the sample bracket 8 .

[0153] Furthermore, the first support column 104 is provided with a connection hole 1041 for securing the sample holder 8. The sample holder 8 is tightly connected to the first support column 104 using screws or other fasteners, ensuring that the sample holder 8 and the test material sheet remain stable during the incubation process and prevent movement or flipping due to the microgravity environment.

[0154] Furthermore, in addition to providing support, the second support column 105 also includes a liquid inlet channel 1051, which directly connects the infusion pipeline to the flow gap 801 on the sample holder 8. The culture medium can be directly delivered to the sample holder 8 through the liquid inlet channel 1051, allowing microorganisms inoculated onto the surface of the test material sheet to quickly come into contact with fresh culture medium, thereby improving culture efficiency and the likelihood of maintaining microbial activity.

[0155] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6-Figure 8 As shown, the liquid delivery pipeline mainly includes: a liquid inlet pipe, a pump body 11, and a heat-insulating cushion 12. The liquid inlet pipe is connected to the liquid storage cavity 201 of the culture tank 1 and the storage tank 2 respectively; the pump body 11 is sandwiched in the first accommodating cavity 4 between the culture tank 1 and the storage tank 2, and the pump body 11 is located in the liquid inlet pipe; the heat-insulating cushion 12 is arranged between the pump body 11 and the storage tank 2, that is, at the bottom of the pump body 11.

[0156] In this way, the infusion pipeline design in this embodiment achieves an organic combination of compact and stable structure, miniaturization and functionality, and meets the requirements of the on-orbit microbial test module for high efficiency, precision, vibration resistance and safety.

[0157] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the liquid inlet pipe and the liquid outlet pipe are latex tubes or silicone tubes, and the pump body 11 is preferably a peristaltic pump.

[0158] In this way, choosing latex tubes or silicone tubes in combination with peristaltic pumps as the liquid inlet and air outlet components in the microbial test module not only achieves efficient and precise liquid transmission control, but also fully considers the special needs under on-orbit experimental conditions.

[0159] In addition, the flow rate of the pump body 11 is set to 3 ml / min with an accuracy of 0.1 ml, and the control of the pump body 11 is achieved through the electrical connector 7.

[0160] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 8 As shown, the infusion pipeline of the present invention also includes: a harness seat 13, the harness seat 13 is clamped on the side of the first accommodating cavity 4 between the second flange 102 at the bottom end of the culture tank 1 and the thermal insulation buffer pad 12, and a plurality of first harness holes 131 and second harness holes 132 are provided on the harness seat 13. The first harness holes 131 are used to pass through and fix the liquid inlet pipe, and the second harness holes 132 are used to pass through and fix the wires of components such as the temperature sensor, the electrical connector 7, and the pump body 11.

[0161] In this way, the design of the harness seat 13 in the embodiment of the present invention fully reflects the engineering optimization ideas under the space-limited space environment conditions, which not only meets the functional requirements, but also takes into account the lightweight, compact and vibration resistance requirements required by spacecraft applications.

[0162] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6-Figure 8 As shown, a fixing ring 121 is provided on the left and right sides of the heat-insulating buffer pad 12 , and the liquid inlet pipe and the air outlet pipe are respectively passed through the fixing ring 121 .

[0163] Specifically, a first connecting tube 107 and a second connecting tube 108 are respectively provided on the left and right sides of the bottom of the culture tank 1. The first connecting tube 107 is connected to the liquid inlet channel 1051 of the second support column 105 inside the culture tank 1, and the second connecting tube 108 is connected to the air outlet 106 at the bottom of the culture tank 1; a third connecting tube 202 connected to the liquid storage cavity 201 and a fourth connecting tube 203 connected to the air storage cavity are provided on the storage tank 2; the first connecting tube 107, the left fixing ring 121 and the third connecting tube 202 are correspondingly arranged along the height direction, and the second connecting tube 108, the right fixing ring 121 and the fourth connecting tube 203 are correspondingly arranged along the height direction.

[0164] One end of the liquid inlet pipe is connected to the first connecting pipe 107 at the bottom of the culture tank 1, and the other end of the liquid inlet pipe is passed through the harness seat 13 and the left fixing ring 121, and is connected to the third connecting pipe 202 of the liquid storage chamber 201; one end of the air outlet pipe is connected to the second connecting pipe 108 at the bottom of the culture tank 1, and the other end of the air outlet pipe is passed through the right fixing ring 121, and is connected to the fourth connecting pipe 203 of the air storage chamber.

[0165] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6-Figure 8 As shown, a connecting frame 14 is provided between the thermal insulation buffer pad 12 and the storage pool 2, and the connecting frame 14 is detachably connected to the storage pool 2, and a plurality of connecting columns 109 are provided at intervals on the bottom edge of the culture pool 1, and the connecting columns 109 are detachably connected to the connecting frame 14 through the thermal insulation buffer pad 12, so that a first accommodating cavity 4 can be constructed between the culture pool 1 and the thermal insulation buffer pad 12.

[0166] For example, the four corners of the thermal insulation cushion 12 are each provided with a first connection portion 122, the four corners of the connecting frame 14 are each provided with a second connection portion 141, the four corners of the cover 205 of the storage tank 2 are each provided with a third connection portion 206, and the four corners of the bottom of the culture tank 1 are each provided with a connection post 109. During assembly, the second connection portion 141 of the connecting frame 14 is fastened to the third connection portion 206 of the cover 205 of the storage tank 2 using screws; at the same time, screws are pierced from bottom to top to connect the second connection portion 141 of the connecting frame 14, the first connection portion 122 of the thermal insulation cushion 12, and the connection post 109 at the bottom of the culture tank 1.

[0167] In this way, this structural design fully takes into account the special requirements of the space environment, ensuring flexible and convenient assembly between components while taking into account thermal management and vibration reduction requirements. It is of significant significance for improving the overall performance of on-orbit microbial experimental equipment.

[0168] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the connecting frame 14 is provided with a plurality of weight-reducing holes 142 to reduce the overall mass.

[0169] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the volume of the storage tank 2 can be 3 ml, and the storage tank 2 includes: a tank body 204 and a cover body 205 detachably connected by four screws, a flip membrane 3 is provided between the tank body 204 and the cover body 205, a liquid storage cavity 201 is formed between the tank body 204 and the flip membrane 3, and an air storage cavity is formed between the cover body 205 and the flip membrane 3.

[0170] In addition, the cell body 204 is provided with a third connecting pipe 202 communicating with the liquid storage chamber 201 , and the cover body 205 is provided with a fourth connecting pipe 203 communicating with the gas storage chamber.

[0171] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the culture tank 1 comprises a cylindrical cavity with an inner diameter of 30 mm and a depth of 20 mm. Made of aluminum alloy, it provides space for microbial culture. With a volume of approximately 14 ml, it can accommodate an appropriate amount of microbial culture fluid and test material sheets, meeting the cultivation environment capacity requirements of specific microbiological experiments. Furthermore, this compact design facilitates the miniaturization and integration of the entire microbiological testing module.

[0172] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 8 As shown, four insulation blocks 6 are provided, respectively arranged at the four top corners of the culture tank 1, and each insulation block 6 is an isosceles trapezoid, the inner side of which is an arc surface adapted to the cylindrical culture tank 1, so that the outer side surface of the insulation block 6 is tangent to the outer wall of the cylindrical culture tank 1 to form a cube.

[0173] This shape design allows the insulation block 6 to fit tightly against the outer wall of the cylindrical culture tank 1, ensuring a good contact area. It can effectively block the impact of the external environment on the temperature inside the culture tank, reduce heat loss, and also prevent the high temperature inside the culture tank 1 from posing potential safety risks to external equipment or astronauts.

[0174] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6 As shown, the culture component, transmission component and gas-liquid storage component of the microbial test module of the present invention are stacked in the height direction. The shape of the overall device is roughly a cuboid of 60mm (length) * 60mm (width) * 900mm (height), that is, the volume is only 324cm 3 , which enables multiple devices to carry out parallel tests simultaneously in a limited space.

[0175] The working principle of the culture unit provided by the present invention is described below with reference to specific examples, which generally include:

[0176] 1. Microbial culture experiment process control: Before the microbial culture experiment begins, the inoculated microorganisms are dry microbial spores, in a dormant state, without growth or reproduction. When the culture needs to be started, the culture fluid is delivered as an activation condition, and the temperature control function is activated at the same time. Once the microorganisms have the growth conditions, they begin to grow and reproduce.

[0177] 2. Liquid delivery working process: Liquid delivery is powered by a micro peristaltic pump. After the micro peristaltic pump is turned on, the culture liquid flows out of the liquid storage cavity 201 of the storage tank 2 through the liquid inlet tube and the micro peristaltic pump, and finally reaches the cavity of the culture tank 1, providing nutrients for the growth of microorganisms. During the liquid delivery, since the culture tank 1 and the storage tank 2 are sealed structures, the pressure in the cavity of the culture tank 1 will increase, and the gas in the cavity of the culture tank 1 will automatically flow into the gas storage cavity of the storage tank 2 through the air outlet pipe, forcing the silicone flip membrane to deform and flip, thereby relieving the pressure in the cavity of the culture tank 1 and ensuring the balance of pressure inside the entire device. After the test, the storage tank 2 was disassembled, and it was observed that the silicone flip membrane was completely recessed to one side of the liquid storage cavity 201.

[0178] The following describes the cultivation method of the on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload proposed by the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before describing the embodiment of the present invention in detail, the entire application scenario is described first. The cultivation method of the on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload of the embodiment of the present invention can be applied locally, can also be applied to cloud platforms in the Internet field, or other types of cloud platforms in the Internet field, or can also be applied to third-party devices. Among them, third-party devices may include various types such as mobile phones, tablets, notebooks, car computers and other smart terminals.

[0179] The following description only uses the cultivation method applicable to an on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload as an example. It should be understood that the method of the embodiment of the present invention can also be applied to cloud platforms and third-party devices.

[0180] like Figure 10 As shown, the cultivation method of the on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload according to the second embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0181] Step S1, after microbial cultivation begins, obtaining microbial image data captured by the monitoring module 02, and processing the microbial image data to generate microbial growth information;

[0182] Step S2: Control and adjust the working state of the pump body 11 and / or the heating element 5 according to the microbial growth information.

[0183] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the microorganism growth information includes but is not limited to the gas pressure in the culture tank 1, the temperature in the tank, and the microorganism growth rate.

[0184] In some embodiments of the present invention, the step of controlling and adjusting the working state of the pump body 11 and / or the heating element 5 according to the microbial growth information specifically includes:

[0185] When the pressure in the pool exceeds the maximum set pressure, the power of the pump body 11 is controlled to decrease until the pressure in the pool is lower than the maximum set pressure;

[0186] When the air pressure in the pool is lower than the minimum set air pressure, the power of the pump body 11 is controlled to increase until the air pressure in the pool is greater than the minimum set air pressure.

[0187] In other embodiments of the present invention, the step of controlling and adjusting the working state of the pump body 11 and / or the heating element 5 according to the microbial growth information specifically includes:

[0188] When the microbial growth rate is lower than the target growth rate, the power of the pump body 11 is controlled to increase until the microbial growth rate reaches the target growth rate;

[0189] When the growth rate of the microorganisms reaches or exceeds the target growth rate, the power of the pump body 11 is controlled to remain unchanged.

[0190] In some embodiments of the present invention, the step of controlling and adjusting the working state of the pump body 11 and / or the heating element 5 according to the microbial growth information specifically includes:

[0191] In the cultivation mode, the heating temperature of the heating element 5 is adjusted according to the range of the microbial growth rate.

[0192] In some embodiments of the present invention, after the step of controlling and adjusting the working state of the pump body 11 and / or the heating element 5 according to the microbial growth information, the method further includes:

[0193] When the culturing time of the microorganisms in the culturing tank 1 reaches the target culturing period, the pump body 11 and the heating element 5 are controlled to be turned off.

[0194] The target training cycle is obtained as follows:

[0195] Obtaining the microbial species and target culture quantity of the microorganisms in the culture tank 1;

[0196] Calculate the total amount of culture fluid required for the microorganisms in culture tank 1 based on the microorganism species and target culture quantity;

[0197] The target culture period required for the microorganisms in the culture tank 1 is calculated based on the total amount of culture liquid and the power of the pump body 11 .

[0198] In summary, the on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload and culture method provided by the present invention have the following beneficial effects:

[0199] (1) The experimental payload of the present invention has high system integration and high throughput characteristics. It can simultaneously carry three independent experimental modules 01, and each experimental module 01 can carry 16 independent culture units. Each culture unit can achieve independent temperature control, with a temperature control range of 25-43°C and an accuracy of ±1°C. Each culture unit can be independently injected with liquid, and the injection volume can be adjusted from 0.5 to 3.0 mL, supporting time-sharing injection. Based on this, 48 ​​independent temperature control and independent injection on-orbit experiments can be carried out simultaneously.

[0200] (2) The experimental payload of the present invention has the function of dynamically monitoring the payload's on-orbit operating status and on-orbit experiments. It can provide timely feedback on the payload's on-orbit operating status, on-orbit experimental progress, and on-orbit experimental results through telemetry parameters, engineering parameters, and image data, guiding experimenters to set the experimental payload's status and dynamically adjust the experimental progress. The experimental payload imaging includes static imaging and dynamic imaging, with a static imaging resolution of 2464×2056 and a dynamic imaging frame rate of 1fps. Dynamic image data can also be compressed with a compression ratio of 16:1.

[0201] (3) The experimental payload of this invention overcomes the technical difficulties of nutrient supply, temperature control, humidity conditions, and dynamic control of the experimental process required for microbial cultivation experiments under microgravity conditions. Experimental Module 01 loads microbial samples, provides the nutrient supply, temperature control, and humidity conditions required for microbial growth, and replenishes fluids according to experimental needs, achieving dynamic control of the microbial experimental process on orbit.

[0202] (4) The experimental payload of the present invention has high safety. The test module 01 of the experimental payload adopts a double sealing design. The inner layer meets the liquid-tightness requirements and the outer layer meets the air-tightness requirements. It can carry out space biological experiments with a biosafety level of BSL2. The experimental payload is designed with a high-temperature sterilization function, which can heat the culture unit to 100°C. On the one hand, when microbial experimental risks are discovered, microorganisms can be killed in an emergency to ensure the safety of the experimental process; on the other hand, microorganisms can be killed during the disposal of experimental waste to ensure the safety of the waste.

[0203] (5) The experimental payload of the present invention is highly versatile. The experimental payload adopts a modular design, and the experimental module 01 can be disassembled and installed on-orbit to meet both uplink and downlink requirements. The electronic control module provides a standardized telecommunications interface with 48 pump control interfaces, 48 ​​temperature control interfaces, and 48 temperature acquisition interfaces. The experimental module 01 can be modified according to experimental needs.

[0204] (6) The experimental payload of the present invention has high reliability. The experimental payload conforms to the telecommunications interface of the China Space Station standard, and the structural design meets the mechanical properties of the China Space Station payload uplink and downlink environments. The electromagnetic compatibility design of the experimental payload conforms to the manned space engineering standards and space station specifications.

[0205] (7) The experimental payload of the present invention meets the requirements of human-machine ergonomics, and the experimental payload is easy for astronauts to operate and has a safe interface.

[0206] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, rather than to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some of the technical features therein. However, these modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the various embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. An on-orbit microbial culture experimental payload, characterized in that: include: The test module is composed of a plurality of culture units, each of which is provided with a culture pool and a heating element for heating the culture pool, and the culture pool is connected to an infusion pipeline with a pump body; a monitoring module, disposed opposite to the test module and configured to perform static or dynamic imaging of the test module to obtain image data of microorganisms in the culture tank, the monitoring module comprising a plurality of cameras and a plurality of apertures; a control module, connected to the monitoring module and the water pump and the heating element in the test module, respectively, and configured to receive the microbial image data transmitted by the monitoring module and control and adjust the working state of the pump and / or the heating element according to the microbial image data; The culture unit comprises: a sealed culture tank, the outer side of which is provided with the heating element; A storage tank and a turnover membrane, wherein the storage tank is connected to the culture tank; the turnover membrane is arranged in the storage tank to separate the inner cavity of the storage tank into a sealed liquid storage cavity and a gas storage cavity; a liquid infusion pipeline and an air outlet pipeline, wherein the culture tank is connected to the liquid storage cavity via the liquid infusion pipeline, and the culture tank is connected to the air storage cavity via the air outlet pipeline, and the pump body is installed on the liquid infusion pipeline; The reversible film is provided with a protrusion protruding toward the gas storage cavity. When the gas in the gas storage cavity squeezes the protrusion, the protrusion is deformed and reversed and completely recessed to the side of the liquid storage cavity. The invention also includes: a load box, wherein a box space is formed inside the load box, and an installation interlayer is installed in the load box and spans the box space, and the installation interlayer divides the box space into an installation cavity and a culture cavity; The control module is installed in the interlayer cavity inside the installation interlayer, the camera passes through the installation interlayer, the camera body is located in the installation cavity, and the camera head of the camera is located in the culture cavity; the test module is installed in the culture cavity, and the culture unit is arranged opposite to the camera head.

2. The on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the cameras is provided with an aperture, and both the camera and the aperture are connected to the control module; The control module is used to receive the microorganism image data transmitted by the camera and adjust the working state of the aperture according to the microorganism image data.

3. The on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload according to claim 2, characterized in that: The control module includes a power distribution computer processing circuit board, a drive control circuit board, and a control end electrical connector that are interconnected; Among them, the power distribution computer processing circuit board is used to control the power distribution of the control module itself, the test module and the monitoring module, and is used to perform computer processing on the microbial image data; the drive control circuit board is used to control the working status of the pump body and the heating element in the test module; and the control end electrical connector is used to be electrically connected to the test module and the monitoring module respectively.

4. The on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload according to claim 3, characterized in that: The power distribution computer processing circuit board includes a power distribution unit; The power distribution unit comprises: A fuse circuit comprising two fuses connected in parallel, one branch of which is connected in series with a power resistor, the resistance of the power resistor being not less than 20 times the cold resistance of the fuse; A surge suppression circuit is built based on an N-channel switching transistor, and the surge suppression circuit controls the conduction by controlling the gate voltage and uses a soft start method to achieve the power-on surge suppression function; EMI filter, used to filter out noise and ripple; DC / DC converter, used to convert the high voltage of the bus into a low voltage secondary power supply; The camera power supply circuit and the aperture power supply circuit distribute power to the camera and the aperture respectively, and both the camera power supply circuit and the aperture power supply circuit are connected to the DC / DC converter.

5. The on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload according to claim 4, characterized in that: The power distribution computer processing circuit board also includes a computer processing unit; The computer processing unit comprises: FPGA chip, used to complete Ethernet communication control, image reception and compression, external storage control, pump body switch control and heating element feedback system control; A CPU chip, connected to the FPGA chip, for sending instructions to control the FPGA chip; a watchdog circuit, connected to the CPU chip and the FPGA chip respectively, and used for hardware resetting the CPU chip and the FPGA chip; An Ethernet PHY circuit, connected to the FPGA chip, for implementing the Ethernet communication protocol; a camerlink receiver, configured to receive microbial image data captured by the camera; An SDRAM external memory circuit is connected to the camerlink receiver and the FPGA chip, respectively, and is used to cache the microorganism image data; The EEPROM memory chip is connected to the CPU chip and is used to store CPU programs.

6. The on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload according to claim 5, characterized in that: The drive control circuit board includes: A pump driving circuit is connected to the FPGA chip, and the FPGA chip controls the on / off state of the pump and its operating parameters through a level conversion circuit; The heating element control circuit is connected to the FPGA chip, and the FPGA chip controls the switch of the heating element and the heating parameters thereof through a level conversion circuit.

7. The on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload according to claim 1, characterized in that: An outer wall surface of the mounting interlayer facing the culture chamber forms a mounting reference surface, and all the culture units of the test module are arranged opposite to the mounting reference surface; The camera is fixed on the installation reference surface, and a fixing hole communicating with the interlayer cavity is further provided on the installation reference surface, and the control end electrical connector of the control module is fixed in the fixing hole.

8. A cultivation method based on the on-orbit microbial cultivation experimental payload according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: include: After microbial cultivation begins, acquiring microbial image data captured by the monitoring module and processing the microbial image data to generate microbial growth information; The working state of the pump body and / or the heating element is controlled and adjusted according to the microbial growth information.

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