A horizontal microfluidic chip and in vitro detection device

Abstract

This invention discloses a horizontal microfluidic chip and an in vitro detection device, relating to the field of experimental containers or vessels. A third bifurcated flow channel gradually narrows in width along the liquid flow direction and connects to several reaction units at intervals. This creates a greater capillary effect at the downstream end of the third bifurcated flow channel compared to the upstream end, compensating for the increased total resistance along the flow path due to the longer flow channel length, allowing the liquid to reach the downstream reaction units more smoothly. A liquid inlet is vertically extended from the bottom surface of the upstream end of the dispensing chamber. The sidewall of the upstream end connects to the second and first dispensing flow channels. The first dispensing flow channel has a smaller width, and the second dispensing flow channel is equipped with a first intercepting groove to achieve a priority selection function and control the timing. The sample dispensing port of the sample dispensing chamber has a threaded section for direct connection to the sample extraction tube.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of experimental containers or vessels, specifically a horizontal microfluidic chip and an in vitro detection device. Background Technology

[0002] Microfluidic chip technology, often referred to as a laboratory on a chip, integrates various stages of an experiment onto a single chip. Microfluidic chips offer advantages such as high integration, small size, low reagent consumption, low cost, and ease of operation.

[0003] Existing microfluidic chips have the following problems: When multiple reaction units are arranged on the same flow channel, the resistance to the liquid flow increases as the length of the flow channel extends, which slows down the flow rate of the liquid sample, affects the reaction efficiency, and may even cause the liquid sample to fail to fill part of the downstream reaction unit, affecting the detection results.

[0004] Furthermore, the existing liquid separation chamber has a simple structure, merely serving to connect multiple branch channels and allow liquid flow into all of them. This makes it difficult to determine the order of liquid introduction into each branch channel, resulting in uncontrollable liquid introduction timing into the reaction chambers of each branch channel. Consequently, it cannot meet the requirements of some testing items that require a specific reaction sequence. Moreover, the liquid separation chamber has a relatively large space, which makes it easy for air bubbles to remain inside, or even form dead volumes, affecting the separation effect.

[0005] In addition, the existing method of adding samples to microfluidic chips involves transferring liquid samples from the sample extraction tube to the microfluidic chip using tools such as droppers. This operation is relatively cumbersome, affects efficiency, and the liquid samples are easily contaminated, which can affect the test results. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a horizontal microfluidic chip and an in vitro detection device, which mainly aims to overcome the problems in the prior art, such as the increase in resistance to liquid flow as the length of the flow channel extends, which leads to a slowdown in the flow rate of the liquid sample and difficulty in filling some downstream reaction units with the liquid sample.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0008] A horizontal microfluidic chip includes a chip body, which has a sample dispensing chamber, a liquid distribution channel and a plurality of reaction units on its horizontal end face, and the sample dispensing chamber, the liquid distribution channel and the reaction units are sequentially connected along the liquid flow direction; the liquid distribution channel includes a second liquid distribution channel and a third branch channel, one end of the second liquid distribution channel is connected to the sample dispensing chamber and the other end is connected to the third branch channel; the width of the third branch channel gradually decreases along the liquid flow direction and is connected to a plurality of the reaction units at intervals.

[0009] Furthermore, the sample addition chamber is set to extend vertically.

[0010] Furthermore, the other end of the second liquid distribution channel is symmetrically connected to two of the third branch channels.

[0011] Furthermore, the reaction unit includes an inlet channel, a reaction chamber, and an exhaust channel connected in sequence, and the inlet channel is connected to a third branch channel; in the two inlet channels arranged along the liquid flow direction in the same third branch channel, the width of the upstream inlet channel is greater than the width of the downstream inlet channel.

[0012] Furthermore, in two inlet channels arranged along the flow direction in the same third bifurcation channel, the angle between the flow direction at the connection between the upstream inlet channel and the third bifurcation channel is greater than the angle between the flow direction at the connection between the downstream inlet channel and the third bifurcation channel.

[0013] In one embodiment, the liquid distribution channel further includes a liquid distribution chamber and a first liquid distribution channel; the liquid distribution chamber is connected to the second liquid distribution channel on the side wall at the downstream end in the liquid flow direction, and the first liquid distribution channel is connected to both the left and right sides of the second liquid distribution channel, and the width of the first liquid distribution channel is smaller than the width of the second liquid distribution channel.

[0014] Furthermore, the liquid distribution chamber has an inlet hole that extends vertically to the bottom surface of the upstream end in the liquid flow direction, and the width of the liquid distribution chamber gradually increases along the liquid flow direction; the sidewall of the liquid distribution chamber is stepped between the first liquid distribution channel and the second liquid distribution channel.

[0015] Furthermore, the left and right sidewalls of the liquid separation chamber are arranged in a figure-eight shape, with the liquid inlet located at the constricted end of the figure-eight shape.

[0016] Furthermore, the second liquid distribution channel extends to the left and right sides and is provided with a first intercepting groove.

[0017] In another embodiment, the chip body is provided with at least two second liquid distribution channels arranged in a ring around the outer periphery of the sample dispensing cavity; a plurality of third branch channels and a plurality of reaction units are arranged in a ring, and the reaction units are located between the sample dispensing cavity and the third branch channels.

[0018] In one embodiment, the chip body is provided with the liquid distribution channel and a plurality of reaction units on one side of the sample dispensing chamber; the two third branch channels and the two first liquid distribution channels form a ring, and the plurality of reaction units are arranged in a ring shape on the inner side of the ring.

[0019] Furthermore, the reaction unit includes a reaction chamber, and the sidewalls of several reaction chambers have notches in the same direction at their opening ends.

[0020] In one embodiment, a sealing cap is further included, the sealing cap having a plug fixedly attached thereto, the sealing cap being threadedly connected to the sample inlet of the sample dispensing chamber, and the plug being movably and sealingly fitted to the inner wall of the sample dispensing chamber.

[0021] In another embodiment, the sample dispensing port of the sample dispensing chamber is provided with a threaded section, which is used for threaded connection of the sample extraction tube.

[0022] Furthermore, the bottom of the sample loading chamber is provided with a lip, and an outlet for communicating with the liquid distribution channel is opened on the inner side of the lip, and a filter element is embedded therein. The outer wall of the lip and the inner wall of the sample loading chamber form a connector for connecting the sample extraction tube.

[0023] An in vitro detection device, characterized in that it includes a detector and a horizontal microfluidic chip with the structure as described above, wherein the detector is used to detect liquid samples in a reaction chamber.

[0024] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are:

[0025] Firstly, in this invention, the width of the third branched flow channel gradually decreases along the liquid flow direction, and several reaction units are connected in a spaced-out arrangement, so that the downstream end of the third branched flow channel forms a greater capillary effect than the upstream end, which compensates for the influence of the greater total resistance on the flow path due to the longer flow channel length, so that the liquid flow can reach the downstream reaction unit more smoothly.

[0026] Secondly, in this invention, within the same third-branched flow channel, the width of the upstream inlet flow channel is greater than the width of the downstream inlet flow channel, giving the downstream inlet flow channel a greater capillary effect, allowing the liquid flow to reach the downstream reaction unit more smoothly. Within the same third-branched flow channel, the angle between its flow direction and the upstream inlet flow channel is greater than the angle between its flow direction and the downstream inlet flow channel, making it easier for the liquid sample to flow into the downstream inlet flow channel, ensuring that the liquid flow can fill the downstream reaction unit.

[0027] Thirdly, in this invention, the liquid distribution channel also includes a liquid distribution chamber whose width gradually increases along the liquid flow direction. An inlet hole is vertically extended from the bottom surface of the upstream end of the liquid distribution chamber, which helps to remove air from the chamber and prevent the formation of air bubbles or dead volumes. The sidewall of the upstream end of the liquid distribution chamber connects the second liquid distribution channel and the first liquid distribution channel. The first liquid distribution channel has a smaller width and a greater capillary effect, allowing the liquid sample to preferentially flow to the first liquid distribution channel, thus achieving secondary distribution, preferential selection, and control of the timing. Furthermore, the sidewall of the downstream end of the liquid distribution chamber is stepped, forming a small space with capillary effect at the entrance of the first liquid distribution channel, further preferentially allowing the liquid sample to flow to the first liquid distribution channel.

[0028] Fourthly, in this invention, the second liquid distribution channel extends to the left and right sides and is provided with a first intercepting groove for intercepting the flow, so that the liquid sample cannot continue to flow forward under the action of gravity alone, and external force is required to apply pressure to the liquid sample to break through the first intercepting groove and continue to flow, thereby further achieving the purpose of controlling the timing.

[0029] Fifth, the sample dispensing port of the sample dispensing chamber is equipped with a threaded section, which is an internal thread structure used for threaded connection of the sample extraction tube. Compared with the traditional sample dispensing method of transferring liquid samples from the sample extraction tube to the microfluidic chip using tools such as droppers, it has the advantages of simplified operation, less liquid sample contamination, reduced consumables, and reduced costs. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a disassembly diagram of Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0033] Figure 4 This is a disassembly diagram of Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0034] Figure 5 This is a front view of the chip body and the sealing cover in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 6 for Figure 2 The image shows a magnified view of part A in the middle.

[0036] Figure 7 for Figure 2 The image shows a magnified view of part B in the middle.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a disassembly diagram of Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0039] Figure 10 This is a disassembly diagram of Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0040] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of Embodiment 2 of the present invention. The dashed line represents the half-section outline of the sample extraction tube.

[0041] Figure 12 This is a front view of the chip body in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 13 for Figure 9 A magnified view of part C in the middle.

[0043] Figure 14 for Figure 9 A magnified view of part D in the middle. Detailed Implementation

[0044] Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many details are described below to provide a comprehensive understanding of the invention; however, those skilled in the art will be able to implement the invention without these details.

[0045] Example 1

[0046] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, a horizontal microfluidic chip includes a chip body 1, which has a sample application chamber 10. The chip body 1 has a liquid distribution channel 11 and twelve reaction units 12 on its horizontal end face. The liquid distribution channel 11 and the twelve reaction units 12 are located on one side, and the sample application chamber 10, the liquid distribution channel 11, and the reaction units 12 are sequentially connected along the liquid flow direction. The sample application chamber 10 extends vertically, facilitating sample application and other operations when the horizontal microfluidic chip is placed horizontally.

[0047] The number of reaction units 12 can be increased or decreased as needed, and is not limited to twelve.

[0048] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the liquid distribution channel 11 includes a second liquid distribution channel 112 and a third branching channel 113. One end of the second liquid distribution channel 112 is connected to the sample application chamber 10, and the other end is symmetrically connected to two third branching channels 113. The width of the third branching channels 113 gradually decreases along the liquid flow direction and is connected to four reaction units 12 at intervals. Of course, the other end of the second liquid distribution channel 112 may also be connected to only one third branching channel 113.

[0049] Preferably, the third branch channel 113 is extended in an arc shape to make the liquid flow smoother in the third branch channel 113.

[0050] The number of reaction units 12 can be increased or decreased as needed. The width of the third branch channel 113 gradually decreases along the liquid flow direction, so that the downstream end of the third branch channel 113 forms a larger capillary effect than the upstream end, which compensates for the greater total resistance on the flow path due to the longer flow channel length, so that the liquid flow can reach the downstream reaction unit 12 more smoothly.

[0051] like Figures 1 to 7As shown, specifically, the reaction unit 12 includes a liquid inlet channel 121, a reaction chamber 122, and an exhaust channel 123 connected in sequence. The liquid inlet channel 121 is connected to the third branch channel 113, the freeze-dried ball 6 is placed inside the reaction chamber 122, and the exhaust port 123 is formed on the lower end face of the chip body 1.

[0052] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, preferably, in the two inlet channels 121 arranged along the liquid flow direction in the same third branch channel 113, the width of the upstream inlet channel 121 is greater than the width of the downstream inlet channel 121, so that the downstream inlet channel 121 has a greater capillary effect, and the liquid flow can reach the downstream reaction unit 12 more smoothly. In other words, the smaller the width of the third branch channel 113, the smaller the width of the corresponding inlet channel 121 of the reaction unit 12.

[0053] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, preferably, in the two inlet channels 121 arranged along the liquid flow direction in the same third bifurcation channel 113, the angle α1 between the upstream inlet channel 121 and the liquid flow direction in the third bifurcation channel 113 is greater than the angle α2 between the downstream inlet channel 121 and the liquid flow direction in the third bifurcation channel 113. This makes it easier for the liquid sample in the third bifurcation channel 113 to flow into the downstream inlet channel 121, ensuring that the liquid flow can fill the downstream reaction unit 12. Preferably, the inlet channels 121 on the same third bifurcation channel 113 are parallel to each other.

[0054] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, by designing the width, shape and angle of the third branch flow channel 113 and the liquid inlet flow channel 121, the influence of the greater flow resistance caused by the longer flow channel length is compensated, so that the liquid filling speed of the four reaction units 12 connected on the same third branch flow channel 113 is as consistent as possible, and the reaction chamber 122 can be fully filled.

[0055] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, two third branching channels 113 and two first distributing channels 111 form a ring, with twelve reaction units 12 arranged in a ring shape inside the ring. Each third branching channel 113 connects to four reaction units 12, and the diameter of the reaction chamber 122 is relatively small. Each first distributing channel 111 connects to two reaction units 12, and the diameter of the reaction chamber 122 is relatively large. The diameter of the reaction chamber can be set as needed; it is possible that the diameter of the reaction chamber 122 connected to the third branching channel 113 is greater than or equal to the diameter of the reaction chamber 122 connected to the first distributing channel 111.

[0056] like Figures 1 to 7As shown, the liquid distribution channel 11 also includes an inlet hole 103, a liquid distribution chamber 110, a first liquid distribution channel 111, and a second liquid distribution channel 112. The liquid distribution chamber 110 has an inlet hole 103 vertically extending from the bottom surface of its upstream end in the liquid flow direction. The sample addition chamber 10 has an outlet 101 at its bottom, which is connected to the inlet hole 103 via an outlet channel 102.

[0057] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, specifically, the left and right sidewalls of the dispensing chamber 110 are arranged in a V-shape, causing the width of the dispensing chamber 110 to gradually increase along the liquid flow direction, and the inlet hole 103 is located at the narrow end of the V-shape. The vertically extending inlet hole 103 allows the liquid sample to enter the dispensing chamber 110 vertically, which can preferentially fill the upstream end of the dispensing chamber 110 (i.e., the narrow end of the V-shape), which is beneficial for removing air from the dispensing chamber 110 and avoiding the formation of air bubbles or dead volumes in the dispensing chamber 110. Subsequently, the liquid sample spreads out along the two vertical planes of the V-shape and flows to the downstream end of the dispensing chamber 110 (i.e., the wide end of the V-shape).

[0058] Of course, the left and right side walls of the liquid separation chamber 110 can be vertical planes or vertical stepped surfaces in addition to vertical planes, as long as the width of the liquid separation chamber 110 gradually increases along the direction of liquid flow.

[0059] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the side wall of the liquid distribution chamber 110 downstream in the liquid flow direction is connected to a second liquid distribution channel 112, and a first liquid distribution channel 111 is connected to both the left and right sides of the second liquid distribution channel 112, and the width of the first liquid distribution channel 111 is smaller than the width of the second liquid distribution channel 112.

[0060] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, due to the small width of the first liquid distribution channel 111, the capillary effect is large, and the liquid sample preferentially flows to the first liquid distribution channel 111 and then to the second liquid distribution channel 112, which plays a secondary role in distribution, realizes the priority selection function, and achieves the purpose of controlling the timing.

[0061] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, preferably, the sidewall of the dispensing chamber 110 is stepped between the first dispensing channel 111 and the second dispensing channel 112. Specifically, the stepped shape consists of a first step surface 1101, a transition surface 1102, and a second step surface 1103 connected in sequence. The stepped shape creates a small space with a certain capillary effect at the entrance of the first dispensing channel 111, allowing the liquid sample to preferentially fill this small space, further promoting the preferential filling of the first dispensing channel 111 by the liquid sample.

[0062] like Figures 1 to 7As shown, the second dispensing channel 112 extends to the left and right sides and is provided with first intercepting grooves 1121. The first intercepting grooves 1121 act as shut-off valves, serving to intercept the flow. The purpose is that, with the horizontal microfluidic chip placed horizontally, the liquid sample in the sample dispensing chamber 10 is blocked by the hydraulic pressure difference generated by gravity, causing the liquid sample to flow into the second dispensing channel 112 and preventing it from flowing further, thus achieving the purpose of timing control. When other external forces are applied to pressurize the liquid sample in the sample dispensing chamber 10, the liquid sample can break through the first intercepting grooves 1121 and continue to flow forward into the third dispensing channel 113.

[0063] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the horizontal microfluidic chip also includes a sealing cap 3, on which a plug 2 is fixedly mounted. The sealing cap 3 is threadedly connected to the sample inlet of the sample dispensing chamber 10, and the plug 2 is movably and sealingly fitted to the inner wall of the sample dispensing chamber 10. When the sealing cap 3 is screwed down, pressure is applied to the liquid sample in the sample dispensing chamber 10 by the plug 2. Of course, in addition to screwing the sealing cap 3 down, pressure can also be applied to the liquid sample in the sample dispensing chamber 10 by other components and methods.

[0064] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the sidewalls of several reaction chambers 122 have notches 1221 at their opening ends facing the same direction. Specifically, the sidewalls of the reaction chambers 122 have notches 1221 on the side of their opening ends facing the dispensing chamber 110. Preferably, the notches 1221 are arc-shaped.

[0065] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the horizontal microfluidic chip also includes an upper sheet 7, a lower sheet 5, and a hydrophobic and breathable membrane 4. The upper sheet 7 and the lower sheet 5 can be pressure-sensitive membranes or transparent PC covers. The upper sheet 7 is sealed and laid on the upper surface of the chip body 1 to seal the liquid distribution channel 11 and the reaction unit 12. The lower sheet 5 is sealed and laid on the lower surface of the chip body 1 to seal the liquid outlet 101, the liquid outlet channel 102, and the liquid inlet 103. The hydrophobic and breathable membrane 4 is bonded to the lower surface of the chip body 1 by a hot-melt process or other methods, and the hydrophobic and breathable membrane 4 individually seals each vent 1231 to prevent the mixing of liquid samples between different reaction units 12 from affecting the detection results.

[0066] Example 2

[0067] like Figures 8 to 12 As shown, a horizontal microfluidic chip includes a chip body 1, which has a sample dispensing chamber 10. The chip body 1 has a plurality of liquid dispensing channels 11 and a plurality of reaction units 12 arranged in a ring around the sample dispensing chamber 10, and the sample dispensing chamber 10, the liquid dispensing channels 11 and the reaction units 12 are connected sequentially along the liquid flow direction.

[0068] like Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the number of liquid distribution channels 11 includes, but is not limited to, two, which are symmetrically distributed around the outer periphery of the sample application chamber 10.

[0069] like Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the liquid distribution channel 11 includes a second liquid distribution channel 112 and a third branch channel 113. One end of the second liquid distribution channel 112 is connected to the sample application chamber 10, and the other end is symmetrically connected to two third branch channels 113.

[0070] like Figures 8 to 12 As shown, specifically, one end of the second liquid distribution channel 112 is provided with a liquid inlet 1120, and the bottom of the sample addition chamber 10 is provided with a liquid outlet 101, which is connected to the liquid inlet 1120 via the liquid outlet channel 102.

[0071] like Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the four third-branched flow channels 113 are arranged in a ring. Each third-branched flow channel 113 connects to four reaction units 12, for a total of sixteen reaction units 12. The sixteen reaction units 12 are arranged in a ring, and the reaction units 12 are located between the sample loading chamber 10 and the third-branched flow channels 113. Of course, the number of reaction units 12 in each third-branched flow channel 113 can be increased or decreased as needed, and is not limited to four.

[0072] like Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the width of the third branch channel 113 gradually decreases along the liquid flow direction, and four reaction units 12 are connected in a spaced-out arrangement. Preferably, the third branch channel 113 is arranged in an arc shape to make the liquid flow smoother in the third branch channel 113. The number of reaction units 12 can be increased or decreased as needed. The gradual decrease in width of the third branch channel 113 along the liquid flow direction creates a greater capillary effect at the downstream end of the third branch channel 113 compared to the upstream end, compensating for the greater total resistance on the flow path due to the longer channel length, allowing the liquid flow to reach the downstream reaction unit 12 more smoothly.

[0073] like Figures 8 to 12 As shown, specifically, the reaction unit 12 includes a liquid inlet channel 121, a reaction chamber 122, and an exhaust channel 123 connected in sequence. The liquid inlet channel 121 is connected to the third branch channel 113, the freeze-dried ball 6 is placed inside the reaction chamber 122, and the exhaust port 123 is formed on the lower end face of the chip body 1.

[0074] like Figures 8 to 14As shown, one end of the liquid inlet channel 121 connecting to the reaction chamber 122 is provided with a guide groove 1211. The bottom surface of the guide groove 1211 is a sloped surface with an inclination angle of 45°-70°, so that after the liquid sample flows into the reaction chamber 122, it will preferentially fill the bottom of the reaction chamber 122, avoiding the liquid sample blocking the exhaust channel 123 and hindering the gas discharge of the reaction chamber 122, and also allowing the cold dry bulb 6 to dissolve orderly from the bottom to the top. One end of the exhaust channel 123 connecting to the reaction chamber 122 is provided with a second stop groove 1230. The depth ratio of the second stop groove 1230 to the depth of the reaction chamber 122 is 1:2-2:3. The cross-section of the second stop groove 1230 includes, but is not limited to, a U-shape, with the opening end of the U-shape facing the reaction chamber 122, including a straight section and an arc-shaped gradual transition section. Preferably, the width and length of the straight section are both less than or equal to 1 mm, which has a better interception effect and is conducive to the collection and discharge of air and bubbles in the reaction chamber 122.

[0075] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, preferably, in the two inlet channels 121 arranged along the liquid flow direction in the same third branch channel 113, the width of the upstream inlet channel 121 is greater than the width of the downstream inlet channel 121, so that the downstream inlet channel 121 has a greater capillary effect, and the liquid flow can reach the downstream reaction unit 12 more smoothly. In other words, the smaller the width of the third branch channel 113, the smaller the width of the corresponding inlet channel 121 of the reaction unit 12.

[0076] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, preferably, in the two inlet channels 121 arranged along the liquid flow direction in the same third branch channel 113, the angle α1 between the upstream inlet channel 121 and the liquid flow direction in the third branch channel 113 is greater than the angle α2 between the downstream inlet channel 121 and the liquid flow direction in the third branch channel 113, so that the liquid sample in the third branch channel 113 can more easily flow into the downstream inlet channel 121.

[0077] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, by designing the third branch flow channel 113 and the liquid inlet flow channel 121, the influence of increased flow channel resistance caused by the longer flow channel length is compensated, so that the liquid filling speed of the four reaction units 12 connected on the same third branch flow channel 113 is as consistent as possible, and the reaction chamber 122 can be fully filled.

[0078] like Figures 8 to 12As shown, the sample dispensing port of the sample dispensing chamber 10 is provided with a threaded section 100, which is an internal thread structure used for threaded connection to the sample extraction tube b. In use, the sealing aluminum mold of the existing sample extraction tube b is torn open, and the swab used to collect the sample is inserted into the sample extraction tube b for thorough lysis. With the opening of the sample extraction tube b facing upwards, the threaded section 100 of the sample dispensing chamber 10 is screwed tightly onto the sample extraction tube b via the threads. Then, the tube is inverted so that the horizontal microfluidic chip is placed horizontally and the sample extraction tube b is vertically inverted. The existing sample extraction tube b is usually made of soft plastic. By using external force to compress and deform the tube wall, its volume is reduced. Combined with gravity, capillary forces in each flow channel, and hydrophilic properties, the liquid sample quickly enters the microchannels of the horizontal microfluidic chip, ultimately filling each reaction chamber.

[0079] like Figures 8 to 12 As shown, a lip 104 is provided at the bottom of the sample loading chamber 10. The lip 104 is cylindrical, and an outlet 101 communicating with the liquid distribution channel 11 is opened on the inner side of the lip 104. A filter element 9 is fixedly embedded therein by interference fit or other means. A plug-in portion 105 for connecting the sample extraction tube b is formed between the outer wall of the lip 104 and the inner wall of the sample loading chamber 10. Since the existing sample extraction tube b is usually made of soft plastic, the opening of the sample extraction tube b will undergo slight deformation when tightened, forming an interference fit with the lip 104 and improving the sealing performance. The filter element 9 is used to prevent large undissolved particles in the sample extraction tube b from entering the microchannel and avoid microchannel blockage.

[0080] It should be noted that the sample dispensing chamber in Embodiment 1 can also adopt the design of the threaded section 100 in Embodiment 2, so that the sample dispensing chamber in Embodiment 1 can be directly connected to the sample extraction tube b. Embodiment 1 can also further improve the sealing performance and prevent microchannel blockage by adopting the design of the lip 104 and the filter element 9 based on the design of the threaded section 100.

[0081] like Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the horizontal microfluidic chip also includes an upper sheet 7, a lower sheet 5, a hydrophobic and breathable membrane 4, and a cover sheet 8. The upper sheet 7 and the lower sheet 5 can be pressure-sensitive membranes or transparent PC cover sheets. The upper sheet 7 is sealed and laid on the upper surface of the chip body 1 to seal the liquid distribution channel 11 and the reaction unit 12. The lower sheet 5 is sealed and laid on the lower surface of the chip body 1 to seal the liquid outlet 101, the liquid outlet channel 102, and the liquid inlet 1120. The hydrophobic and breathable membrane 4 is bonded to the lower surface of the chip body 1 by a hot-melt process or other methods, and the hydrophobic and breathable membrane 4 individually seals each vent 1231 to prevent the mixing of liquid samples between different reaction units 12 from affecting the detection results. The edge of the cover sheet 8 is sealed and pasted to the lower surface of the chip body 1 of the upper sheet 7 to cover the hydrophobic and breathable membrane 4 and prevent the hydrophobic and breathable membrane 4 from being contaminated by external factors.

[0082] This invention also discloses an in vitro detection device, comprising a detector and a horizontal microfluidic chip with the structure described above. The detector has a detection station for placing the horizontal microfluidic chip and is used to detect liquid samples within a reaction chamber. Furthermore, other specific structures and detection principles of the detector are prior art and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0083] The above are merely specific embodiments of the present invention, but the design concept of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any non-substantial modifications made to the present invention using this concept shall be considered as infringing upon the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A horizontal microfluidic chip, comprising a chip body (1), wherein the chip body (1) is provided with a sample dispensing chamber (10), a liquid distribution channel (11) and a plurality of reaction units (12) are provided on a horizontal end face, and the sample dispensing chamber (10), the liquid distribution channel (11) and the reaction units (12) are sequentially connected, characterized in that: The liquid distribution channel (11) includes a second liquid distribution channel (112) and a third branch channel (113). One end of the second liquid distribution channel (112) is connected to the sample addition chamber (10), and the other end is connected to the third branch channel (113). The width of the third branch channel (113) gradually decreases along the liquid flow direction, and several reaction units (12) are connected to it in a spaced-out arrangement.

2. A horizontal microfluidic chip according to claim 1, characterized in that: The reaction unit (12) includes an inlet channel (121), a reaction chamber (122), and an exhaust channel (123) connected in sequence, and the inlet channel (121) is connected to the third branch channel (113); in the two inlet channels (121) arranged along the liquid flow direction in the same third branch channel (113), the width of the upstream inlet channel (121) is greater than the width of the downstream inlet channel (121).

3. A horizontal microfluidic chip according to claim 2, characterized in that: In the two inlet channels (121) arranged along the liquid flow direction in the same third branch channel (113), the angle (a1) between the upstream inlet channel (121) and the third branch channel (113) is greater than the angle (a2) between the downstream inlet channel (121) and the third branch channel (113).

4. A horizontal microfluidic chip according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that: The liquid distribution channel (11) further includes a liquid distribution chamber (110) and a first liquid distribution channel (111); the liquid distribution chamber (110) is connected to the second liquid distribution channel (112) on the side wall at the downstream end in the liquid flow direction, and the first liquid distribution channel (111) is connected to both the left and right sides of the second liquid distribution channel (112), and the width of the first liquid distribution channel (111) is smaller than the width of the second liquid distribution channel (112).

5. A horizontal microfluidic chip according to claim 4, characterized in that: The liquid distribution chamber (110) has a liquid inlet hole (103) extending vertically from the bottom surface of the upstream end in the liquid flow direction. The width of the liquid distribution chamber (110) gradually increases along the liquid flow direction. The sidewall of the liquid distribution chamber (110) is stepped between the first liquid distribution channel (111) and the second liquid distribution channel (112).

6. A horizontal microfluidic chip according to claim 5, characterized in that: The left and right sidewalls of the liquid separation chamber (110) are arranged in a figure-eight shape, and the liquid inlet (103) is located at the constricted end of the figure-eight shape.

7. A horizontal microfluidic chip according to claim 4, characterized in that: The second liquid distribution channel (112) extends to the left and right sides and is provided with a first intercepting groove (1121).

8. A horizontal microfluidic chip according to claim 4, characterized in that: The chip body (1) is provided with the liquid distribution channel (11) and a number of reaction units (12) on one side of the sample dispensing chamber (10); the two third branch channels (113) and the two first liquid distribution channels (111) form a ring, and the number of reaction units (12) are arranged in a ring shape on the inner side of the ring.

9. A horizontal microfluidic chip according to claim 1, characterized in that: The reaction unit (12) includes a reaction chamber (122), and the sidewalls of several reaction chambers (122) have notches (1221) in the same direction at the opening ends.

10. A horizontal microfluidic chip according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that: The sample dispensing port of the sample dispensing chamber (10) is provided with a threaded section (100), which is used to thread the sample extraction tube.

11. A horizontal microfluidic chip according to claim 10, characterized in that: The bottom of the sample loading chamber (10) is provided with a lip (104), and an outlet (101) communicating with the liquid distribution channel (11) is opened on the inner side of the lip (104), and a filter element (9) is embedded therein. A plug-in part for connecting the sample extraction tube is formed between the outer wall of the lip (104) and the inner wall of the sample loading chamber (10).

12. A horizontal microfluidic chip according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that: The chip body (1) is provided with at least two second liquid distribution channels (112) arranged in a ring around the sample dispensing chamber (10); a plurality of third branch channels (113) and a plurality of reaction units (12) are arranged in a ring, and the reaction units (12) are located between the sample dispensing chamber (10) and the third branch channels (113).

13. An in vitro detection device, characterized in that: The device includes a detector and a structure as described in any one of claims 1-12, wherein the detector is used to detect liquid samples within the reaction chamber.

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