A multi-mode carrier and microfluidic chip capable of flexibly switching between preparation of single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets

Abstract

The application discloses a multi-mode carrier and a micro-fluidic chip capable of flexibly switching preparation of single emulsion drops and multiple emulsion drops, and relates to the technical field of micro-fluidic chips. The multi-mode carrier comprises a main module, a plurality of single-pass joint modules and a plurality of multi-pass joint modules; a plurality of spaced liquid storage channels are arranged in the main module; the liquid storage channels are used to replace traditional outer phase tubes and serve as the main module structure; and the single-pass joint modules or the multi-pass joint modules can be quickly matched according to requirements and used, so that the manufacturing difficulty is greatly reduced, and the service life is improved. The single-pass joint module is internally provided with single-pass butt joint channels; the single-pass butt joint channels are connected and conducted with the main communication ports one by one; the multi-pass joint module is internally provided with multi-pass butt joint channels; and the multi-pass butt joint channels are connected and conducted with at least two main communication ports on the same side. The required effect is achieved through the matching and combination of different modules, and the overall use is good in flexibility and adaptability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of microfluidic chip technology, and in particular to a multimodal carrier and microfluidic chip capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets. Background Technology

[0002] Current carrier fabrication methods for cannulated microfluidic chips involve using a needle as a fixing support and reservoir, a glass slide as a support, and then fixing and sealing it with adhesive. This method suffers from technical problems such as high manufacturing difficulty, cumbersome process, and low success rate. Moreover, it is a disposable product, only capable of realizing a single emulsion droplet function or a dual emulsion droplet function, unable to achieve flexible switching or even other multiple droplet functions, thus still having considerable limitations in application. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to provide a multimodal carrier and microfluidic chip that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, so as to solve the technical problems of high difficulty, low success rate and large application limitations of existing microfluidic chip preparation methods.

[0004] To achieve the above technical objectives, this application provides a multimode carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, including a main module, several single-connector modules, and several multi-connector modules;

[0005] The main module is equipped with multiple spaced liquid storage channels;

[0006] Each of the liquid storage channels is a straight channel, and both ends are coaxially connected and connected by a connecting channel;

[0007] The ends of the two connecting channels away from the liquid storage channel extend to the two end faces of the main module, respectively, forming the main communication ports;

[0008] The main module has a first docking structure on its end face corresponding to the position of the main communication port;

[0009] The main module is also provided with a liquid storage port that is connected to the liquid storage channel one by one;

[0010] The single-pass connector module is equipped with a single-pass docking channel;

[0011] Each of the single-channel docking points is connected to the main communication port in a one-to-one manner.

[0012] The multi-port connector module is equipped with a multi-port docking channel;

[0013] The multi-channel docking channel is connected to at least two of the main communication ports on the same side;

[0014] Both the single-pass connector module and the multi-pass connector module are provided with a second docking structure that mates with the first docking structure.

[0015] Furthermore, the single-channel docking mechanism includes a first channel segment and a second channel segment;

[0016] One end of the first channel segment is connected to one end of the second channel segment, and the other end is used to connect to the main communication port.

[0017] The single-connector module is provided with a phase liquid port that connects to the first channel segment.

[0018] Furthermore, the multi-port docking channel is U-shaped, and both ends extend to the same end face of the multi-port connector module.

[0019] Furthermore, the multi-channel connection includes a manifold section and at least three branch sections;

[0020] One end of each of the three branch pipe sections is used to connect and conduct with the main communication port, and the other end of each is connected to the manifold section.

[0021] Furthermore, the multi-port connector module is also provided with inlet and outlet ports that connect to the multi-port docking channel.

[0022] Furthermore, the first docking structure is a slot;

[0023] The second docking structure is a locking block that snaps into the slot;

[0024] The card slot and the card block are T-shaped.

[0025] Furthermore, each of the liquid storage channels is provided with at least two coaxial guide structures at intervals.

[0026] Furthermore, the main module, the single-connector module, and the multi-connector module are manufactured using 3D printing.

[0027] Furthermore, the main module is provided with an observation port connecting each of the liquid storage channels;

[0028] The main module is equipped with a transparent baffle for closing the observation port.

[0029] This application also discloses a microfluidic chip, including a capillary array and a multimode carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets.

[0030] As can be seen from the above technical solutions, the multimodal carrier designed in this application, which can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, has the following beneficial effects:

[0031] 1. The liquid storage channel replaces the traditional external phase tube and serves as the main module structure. It can be quickly combined with single-connector modules or multi-connector modules as needed. Compared with the traditional needle design, this improved design greatly reduces the manufacturing difficulty, and the success rate and service life are also improved.

[0032] 2. The main module, without any connector modules, can meet the requirements for single emulsion droplet production. Taking one storage channel as an example, an inner phase tube is installed at one end of the connecting channel, and a receiving tube is installed at the other end. The inner phase tube generates inner phase droplets in the storage channel, which are then received by the receiving tube. For more diverse droplet production needs, single-port or multi-port connector modules can be flexibly combined. For example, a single-port connector module can be used as an intermediate phase carrier to install both the intermediate phase tube and the inner phase tube, enabling dual emulsion droplet production. A multi-port connector module is designed to connect to at least two main ports on the same side, allowing for continuous operation between storage channels. This enables multiple droplets, microreactors, high-throughput droplet output, emulsion separation, etc., offering good overall flexibility and adaptability. Attached Figure Description

[0033] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0034] Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the main module of a multimode carrier that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the main module of a multimode carrier that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application.

[0036] Figure 3 A perspective view of a single-port connector module for preparing a multimode carrier capable of flexibly switching between single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a single-connector module for preparing a multimode carrier capable of flexibly switching between single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application.

[0038] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a multi-port connector module that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application.

[0039] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a multi-port connector module that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application.

[0040] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of another multi-port connector module provided in this application, which can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets.

[0041] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of another multi-port connector module provided in this application, which can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets.

[0042] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the first combination structure of a multimode carrier that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application.

[0043] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a second combination structure of a multimode carrier that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application;

[0044] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a third combination structure of a multimode carrier that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application.

[0045] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a fourth combination structure of a multimode carrier that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application.

[0046] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a fifth combination structure of a multimodal carrier that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application.

[0047] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a fifth combination structure of a multimodal carrier that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application.

[0048] In the diagram: 1. Main module; 11. Liquid storage channel; 12. Connection channel; 13. Main connection port; 14. First docking structure; 15. Coaxial guide structure; 16. Guide groove; 17. Observation port; 2. Single-port connector module; 21. Single-port docking channel; 3. Multi-port connector module; 31. Multi-port docking channel; 311. Branch pipe section; 312. Manifold section; 32. Inlet and outlet; 100. Inner phase pipe; 200. Receiving pipe; 301. Second docking structure; 302. Sealing groove; 400. Intermediate phase pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0050] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0051] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a replaceable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0052] This application discloses a multimode carrier that can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets.

[0053] Please see Figures 1 to 8 An embodiment of a multimodal carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, provided in this application, includes:

[0054] Main module 1, several single-connector modules 2 and several multi-connector modules 3.

[0055] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the main module 1 is provided with multiple spaced liquid storage channels 11; each liquid storage channel 11 is a straight channel, and the two ends are coaxially connected to a connecting channel 12; the ends of the two connecting channels 12 away from the liquid storage channels 11 extend to the two end faces of the main module 1 respectively, forming a main communication port 13; the diameter of the connecting channel 12 is smaller than that of the liquid storage channel 11, and it is used to install capillary tubes such as inner phase tube 100, receiving tube 200, and intermediate phase tube 400.

[0056] The end face of the main module 1 is provided with a first docking structure 14 corresponding to the position of the main connection port 13.

[0057] The main module 1 is also equipped with a liquid storage port (not shown in the figure) that is connected to the liquid storage channel 11. Each liquid storage port can also be connected to a manifold channel to realize collective liquid supply and drainage operation.

[0058] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the single-through connector module 2 is provided with a single-through docking channel 21. It should be noted that the single-through connector module 2 referred to in this application is a connector module that connects only one main connection port 13. Correspondingly, the single-through docking channel 21 is connected and conductive to the main connection port 13 one by one.

[0059] like Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the multi-port connector module 3 is provided with a multi-port docking channel 31. It should be noted that the multi-port connector module 3 referred to in this application is a connector module that connects at least two main communication ports 13 on the same side. Correspondingly, the multi-port docking channel 31 is connected and conductive to at least two main communication ports 13 on the same side.

[0060] In order to achieve rapid assembly and connection, both the single-through connector module 2 and the multi-through connector module 3 are provided with a second docking structure 301 that mates with the first docking structure 14.

[0061] The multimodal carrier designed in this application, which can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, has the following beneficial effects:

[0062] 1. The liquid storage channel 11 replaces the traditional external phase tube and serves as the main module 1 structure. It can be quickly paired with a single-connector module 2 or a multi-connector module 3 as needed. Compared with the traditional needle design, this improved design greatly reduces the manufacturing difficulty, and the success rate and service life are also improved.

[0063] 2. Main module 1, without any connector modules, can meet the requirements for single emulsion droplet production. Taking one of the storage channels 11 as an example, an inner phase tube 100 is installed at one end of the connecting channel 12, and a receiving tube 200 is installed at the other end of the connecting channel 12. The inner phase tube 100 generates inner phase droplets in the storage channel 11, which are received by the receiving tube 200. When more diverse droplet production requirements are needed, it can be flexibly combined with single-port connector module 2 or multi-port connector module 3. Taking single-port connector module 2 as an example, after being added, it can be used as an intermediate phase carrier to install the intermediate phase tube 400 and the inner phase tube 100, realizing the requirements for dual emulsion droplet production. Taking multi-port connector module 3 as an example, it is designed to connect and conduct with at least two main connecting ports 13 on the same side, so that the continuous operation between the storage channels 11 can be realized, realizing multiple droplets, or acting as a microreactor, or realizing high-throughput droplet output, or emulsion separation, etc., with good overall flexibility and adaptability.

[0064] The above is Embodiment 1 of a multimodal carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, provided by this application. The following is Embodiment 2 of a multimodal carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, provided by this application. Please refer to the following for details. Figures 1 to 14 .

[0065] Based on the solution of Embodiment 1 above:

[0066] Furthermore, when the single-channel docking channel 21 is only needed for installing the inner phase tube 100, it does not need to be segmented and can be directly used for installing the inner phase tube 100.

[0067] When there is an installation requirement for superimposed inner phase tube 100 and intermediate phase tube 400, the single-pass docking channel 21 is designed to include a first channel section and a second channel section.

[0068] One end of the first channel segment is connected to one end of the second channel segment, and the other end is used to connect to the main communication port 13. The single-connector module 2 is provided with a phase-liquid port that connects to the first channel segment. The first channel segment is used to install the intermediate phase tube 400, while the second channel segment is used to install the inner phase tube 100. This allows the formation of an intermediate phase droplet with an inner phase droplet, achieving a double emulsion droplet effect.

[0069] like Figure 9 As shown, when the two single-connector modules 2 are used in conjunction with the main module 1, a double emulsion droplet effect can be achieved when the inner phase tube 100 is nested with the intermediate phase tube 400; however, a single emulsion droplet effect can also be achieved as needed (without nesting the intermediate phase tube 400).

[0070] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4As shown, in order to achieve a tight seal between the single-channel docking 21 and the main connecting port 13, a sealing groove 302 is provided at the end of the single-channel docking 21 that is connected to the main connecting port 13. A sealing ring is provided in the sealing groove 302. When the first docking structure 14 and the second docking structure 301 are docked and engaged, the sealing ring can be squeezed to achieve a sealing effect. Compared with glue sealing, this sealing method is more convenient for disassembly and installation. Those skilled in the art can make changes to the design according to actual needs without restriction.

[0071] Furthermore, such as Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, one form of the multi-port docking channel 31 can be U-shaped, with both ends extending to the same end face of the multi-port connector module 3.

[0072] like Figure 10 As shown, when Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 When the multi-port connector module 3 shown is used in conjunction with the main module 1, the liquid droplets generated in the two liquid storage channels 11 can be concentrated and output through the liquid inlet and outlet ports 32 designed on the multi-port connector module 3, or the liquid can be supplied to the capillary tubes connected to the two liquid storage channels 11 at the same time, so as to achieve high-throughput production.

[0073] like Figure 11 As shown, when Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 The multi-port connector module 3 shown, when paired with the single-port connector module 2 and the main module 1, enables multi-level nesting of capillary heterogeneous phases. For example, a single emulsion droplet generated in one liquid storage channel 11 can flow through the multi-port connector module 3 to the next liquid storage channel 11 to superimpose and form a double emulsion droplet, and so on, to achieve multiple droplets. In addition, a serpentine channel can be constructed to achieve liquid mixing at different locations, so as to be used as a microreactor.

[0074] Furthermore, such as Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the multi-channel docking channel 31 includes a manifold section 312 and at least three branch sections 311; one end of each of the three branch sections 311 is used to connect and conduct with the main connection port 13, and the other end of each branch section 311 is connected to the manifold section 312.

[0075] like Figure 12 As shown, when Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 When the multi-port connector module 3 shown is used in conjunction with the main module 1, it... Figure 10 Similarly, the liquid droplets generated in three or more liquid storage channels 11 can be concentrated and output through the liquid inlet and outlet ports 32 designed on the multi-port connector module 3, or liquid can be supplied to the capillary tubes connected to the three liquid storage channels 11 at the same time to achieve high-throughput production.

[0076] like Figure 13 As shown, when Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 The multi-port connector module 3 shown, when paired with the single-port connector module 2 and used in conjunction with the main module 1, can be used for emulsion separation, and emulsion screening can be achieved by combining it with visual inspection. Alternatively, it can be used to conduct comparative experiments, providing convenience for such experiments.

[0077] like Figure 14 As shown, the main module 1 designed in this application can also be configured as follows: Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 The multi-port connector module 3 shown can be combined to enable multiple main modules 1 to be used together.

[0078] Furthermore, such as Figures 1 to 8 As shown, the first docking structure 14 can be a slot, and correspondingly, the second docking structure 301 is a block that snaps into the slot. In order to improve the stability and convenience of the fit, the slot and the block are T-shaped. Those skilled in the art can make appropriate design changes based on this without limitation.

[0079] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, at least two coaxial guide structures 15 are provided at intervals in each liquid storage channel 11. The coaxial guide structure 15 is a support block structure with a guide groove 16 for supporting the capillary tube. This design can make the coaxiality of the capillary tubes in the liquid storage channel 11 better and reduce the occurrence of non-coaxial deviation.

[0080] Furthermore, the main module 1, single-connector module 2, and multi-connector module 3 were fabricated using 3D printing. Using 3D printing for structural component fabrication makes the process more convenient, effectively shortening the manufacturing steps. After 3D printing, assembly is possible without the need for coaxial alignment under a microscope (because the 3D-printed parts have a coaxial alignment structure, only the capillary tube needs to be placed in the corresponding position). Additionally, the dimensions are more closely fitted, freeing them from the constraints of a glass slide, resulting in a smaller overall volume and more freely controllable dimensions.

[0081] Of course, in addition to 3D printing, other industrial methods such as injection molding and CNC machining can be used for preparation.

[0082] Furthermore, the main module 1 is provided with observation ports 17 connecting each liquid storage channel 11, and the main module 1 is provided with a transparent baffle for sealing the observation ports 17. The transparent baffle provides a viewing window for observation of the interior of the liquid storage channel 11. To facilitate the installation of the transparent baffle, a positioning groove can be formed on the top surface of the main module 1 for positioning and installation of the transparent baffle, which can be sealed and fixed with adhesive. It is not limited to using one transparent baffle to seal all observation ports 17, or using one transparent baffle to seal each observation port 17.

[0083] This application also discloses a microfluidic chip, including a capillary assembly and a multimode carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets. The capillary assembly consists of several capillaries, such as an inner phase tube 100, an intermediate phase tube 400, and a receiving tube 200, which can be freely combined with the multimode carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets to construct the desired microfluidic chip.

[0084] The above provides a detailed description of a multimode carrier and microfluidic chip capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, as provided in this application. For those skilled in the art, based on the ideas of the embodiments of this application, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. A multimodal carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets, characterized in that, It includes a main module (1), several single-connector modules (2) and several multi-connector modules (3); The main module (1) is provided with multiple spaced liquid storage channels (11). Each of the liquid storage channels (11) is a straight channel, and both ends are coaxially connected to a connecting channel (12). The two connecting channels (12) extend from the end away from the liquid storage channel (11) to the two end faces of the main module (1) respectively, forming the main communication port (13). The main module (1) has a first docking structure (14) corresponding to the position of the main communication port (13) on its end face. The main module (1) is also provided with a liquid storage port that is connected to the liquid storage channel (11) in a one-to-one manner; The single-pass connector module (2) is provided with a single-pass docking channel (21); Each of the single-channel docking stations (21) is connected to the main connecting port (13) in a one-to-one manner; The multi-port connector module (3) is provided with a multi-port docking channel (31); The multi-channel docking channel (31) is connected to at least two of the main connecting ports (13) on the same side; Both the single-pass connector module (2) and the multi-pass connector module (3) are provided with a second docking structure (301) that docks and cooperates with the first docking structure (14). The single-channel docking channel (21) includes a first channel segment and a second channel segment; one end of the first channel segment is connected to one end of the second channel segment, and the other end is used to connect to the main communication port (13); the single-connector module (2) is provided with a phase liquid port that connects to the first channel segment; The multi-port connector module (3) is also provided with an inlet / outlet port (32) that connects to the multi-port docking channel (31). Each of the liquid storage channels (11) is provided with at least two coaxial guide structures (15) at intervals. The coaxial guide structure (15) is a support block structure with a guide groove (16) for supporting the capillary tube.

2. The multimodal carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-port docking channel (31) is U-shaped and extends to the same end face of the multi-port connector module (3) at both ends.

3. The multimodal carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-channel docking channel (31) includes a manifold section (312) and at least three branch sections (311). One end of each of the three branch pipe sections (311) is connected to the main communication port (13) for conduction, and the other end is connected to the manifold section (312).

4. The multimodal carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first docking structure (14) is a slot; The second docking structure (301) is a locking block that snaps into the slot; The card slot and the card block are T-shaped.

5. The multimodal carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main module (1), the single-connector module (2), and the multi-connector module (3) are prepared by 3D printing.

6. The multimodal carrier capable of flexibly switching between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main module (1) is provided with an observation port (17) that connects to each of the liquid storage channels (11). The main module (1) is provided with a transparent baffle for closing the observation port (17).

7. A microfluidic chip, characterized in that, It includes capillary arrays and the multimode carriers described in any one of claims 1 to 6, which can flexibly switch between preparing single emulsion droplets and multiple droplets.

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