Fluid transportation system, gene sequencer and fluid transportation method

Abstract

The invention discloses a fluid transportation system, a gene sequencer and a fluid transportation method. The fluid transport system comprises: a fluid buffer pool (107); the positive pressure source (106) is operably connected with the fluid buffer pool (107) and is configured to provide positive pressure for the fluid buffer pool (107); the negative pressure source (104) is operably connected with the fluid buffer pool (107) and is configured to provide negative pressure for the fluid buffer pool (107); and the liquid storage and control unit (113) is operably connected with the fluid buffer pool (107) and is configured to store at least one liquid and control the transportation of the at least one liquid according to the pressure state of the fluid buffer pool (107).

Description

Fluid transport system, gene sequencer and fluid transport method Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of gas-liquid control technology, and in particular to a fluid transportation system, a gene sequencer, and a fluid transportation method. Background Art

[0002] In some related technologies for gene sequencers, the fluid transport device typically uses a power element such as a syringe pump, which uses the movement of the syringe piston to provide pressure to achieve fluid transport. In other related technologies, gene sequencers use a negative pressure pump and a buffer tank to provide negative pressure to transport fluid.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] The inventors discovered that related-art gene sequencers, which use syringe pumps to provide positive or negative pressure to transport fluids, require frequent syringe operation. Existing syringe pumps have a limited number of operating cycles, resulting in a short lifespan and the need for frequent replacement, leading to high equipment costs. Other related-art gene sequencers, based on the unidirectional negative pressure characteristics of negative pressure pumps, struggle to achieve bidirectional fluid flow within the sequencing slide, increasing the complexity and difficulty of sequencing methods.

[0005] In view of this, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a fluid transport system, a gene sequencer, and a fluid transport method, which can help reduce equipment costs and meet the needs of bidirectional flow of fluid in sequencing slides.

[0006] In one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a fluid transport system comprising:

[0007] Fluid buffer pool;

[0008] a positive pressure source, operatively connected to the fluid buffer pool and configured to provide positive pressure to the fluid buffer pool;

[0009] a negative pressure source, operatively connected to the fluid buffer reservoir and configured to provide negative pressure to the fluid buffer reservoir; and

[0010] The liquid storage and control unit is operably connected to the fluid buffer tank and is configured to store at least one liquid and control the transportation of the at least one liquid according to the pressure state of the fluid buffer tank.

[0011] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0012] The first control component is connected to the positive pressure source, the negative pressure source, and the fluid cache pool, respectively, and is configured to control the communication state between the positive pressure source and the fluid cache pool, as well as the communication state between the negative pressure source and the fluid cache pool, so as to adjust the air pressure in the fluid cache pool to a set pressure value or a set pressure range.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first control component includes:

[0014] The first control valve has a first port, a second port, and a third port, wherein the first port and the second port are connected to the positive pressure source and the negative pressure source respectively, and the third port is connected to the fluid buffer pool.

[0015] The first control valve is configured to selectively open a flow path between the third port and the first port or a flow path between the third port and the second port.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first control valve further has a fourth port communicating with the atmosphere, and the first control valve is configured to selectively open a flow path between the fourth port and the third port.

[0017] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0018] The pressure detection element is connected to the fluid buffer pool and is configured to detect the air pressure of the fluid buffer pool so as to control the air pressure of the fluid buffer pool through the first control component.

[0019] In some embodiments, the liquid storage and control unit comprises:

[0020] at least two liquid storage containers, configured to store at least two liquids, respectively; and

[0021] The second control component is connected to the at least two liquid storage containers and is configured to control the transportation of liquid between the at least two liquid storage containers and the wafer flow channel connected to the second control component according to the pressure state of the fluid buffer pool.

[0022] In some embodiments, the second control component includes:

[0023] The second control valve has at least two fifth ports and a sixth port, wherein the at least two fifth ports are respectively connected to the at least two liquid storage containers, and the sixth port is used to connect to the slide flow channel.

[0024] The second control valve is configured to selectively open the sixth port and one of the at least two fifth ports.

[0025] In some embodiments, the second control valve further has a seventh port, and the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0026] a first flow path, one end of the first flow path being connected to the seventh port, and the other end being connected to the fluid buffer pool;

[0027] The second control valve is configured to selectively connect the seventh port to one of the at least two fifth ports and the sixth port.

[0028] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0029] A second flow path, one end of the second flow path is connected to the fluid buffer pool, and the other end is used to connect to the slide flow channel.

[0030] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0031] The fluid buffer area is arranged on the second flow path.

[0032] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0033] The third control valve is provided on the second flow path and is configured to control the opening and closing of the second flow path.

[0034] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0035] The air bubble sensor is provided on at least one of the first flow path and the second flow path.

[0036] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0037] The waste liquid collection unit is operably connected to the fluid buffer pool and is configured to collect waste liquid in the fluid buffer pool.

[0038] In some embodiments, the waste liquid collection unit comprises:

[0039] a waste liquid storage container, connected to the fluid buffer pool via a first waste liquid flow path; and

[0040] The waste liquid control valve is provided on the first waste liquid flow path and is configured to control the opening and closing of the first waste liquid flow path.

[0041] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0042] At least two third flow paths, one end of the at least two third flow paths is connected to the fluid buffer pool, and the other end is connected to the at least two liquid storage containers respectively.

[0043] In some embodiments, the at least two third flow paths are respectively communicated with the gas phase spaces of the at least two liquid storage containers, and the at least two fifth ports are respectively communicated with the liquid phase spaces of the at least two liquid storage containers.

[0044] In some embodiments, the second control valve further has a seventh port, and the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0045] a waste liquid storage container configured to collect waste liquid in the slide flow channel; and

[0046] A fourth flow path, one end of which is connected to the seventh port, and the other end of which is connected to the waste liquid storage container.

[0047] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0048] A fifth flow path, one end of which is connected to the waste liquid storage container, and the other end of which is used to connect to the slide flow channel.

[0049] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0050] The fluid buffer area is arranged on the fifth flow path.

[0051] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0052] The air bubble sensor is provided on at least one of the fourth flow path and the fifth flow path.

[0053] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises:

[0054] The liquid level detection element is connected to the fluid buffer tank and / or the waste liquid collection unit and is configured to detect the liquid level in the fluid buffer tank and / or the waste liquid collection unit.

[0055] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a gene sequencer is provided, comprising the aforementioned fluid transport system.

[0056] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a fluid transport method based on the aforementioned fluid transport system is provided, comprising:

[0057] By controlling the connection state between the positive pressure source and the fluid buffer pool and the connection state between the negative pressure source and the fluid buffer pool, the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool is adjusted to a set pressure value or a set pressure range;

[0058] The transport of at least one liquid in the liquid storage and control unit is controlled by the air pressure in the fluid buffer tank.

[0059] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises a first control component connected to the positive pressure source, the negative pressure source, and the fluid buffer tank, respectively, and a pressure detection element connected to the fluid buffer tank;

[0060] The step of adjusting the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool to a set pressure value or a set pressure range includes:

[0061] receiving a positive pressure building instruction for establishing a set positive pressure range, wherein the lower limit value of the set positive pressure range is P1 and the upper limit value is P2;

[0062] causing the first control component to open the flow passage between the fluid buffer pool and the positive pressure source, and to close other flow passages of the fluid buffer pool;

[0063] Turning on the positive pressure source so that the positive pressure source applies positive pressure to the fluid buffer pool;

[0064] The positive pressure P0 of the fluid buffer pool is detected in real time by the pressure detection element, and it is determined whether the positive pressure P0 reaches the upper limit value P2. After the positive pressure P0 rises to the upper limit value P2, the positive pressure source is closed to complete the positive pressure building.

[0065] In some embodiments, the step of adjusting the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool to a set pressure value or a set pressure range further comprises:

[0066] During the use of the fluid buffer pool, the positive pressure P0 of the fluid buffer pool is detected in real time by the pressure detection element, and it is determined whether the positive pressure P0 is lower than the lower limit value P1. If it is lower than the lower limit value P1, the positive pressure source is turned on and the positive pressure source is turned off after the positive pressure P0 rises to the upper limit value P2.

[0067] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises a first control component connected to the positive pressure source, the negative pressure source, and the fluid buffer tank, respectively, and a pressure detection element connected to the fluid buffer tank;

[0068] The step of adjusting the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool to a set pressure value or a set pressure range includes:

[0069] Receive a negative pressure building instruction for establishing a set negative pressure range, wherein the upper limit value of the set negative pressure range is P3 and the lower limit value is P4;

[0070] causing the first control component to open the flow channel between the fluid buffer pool and the negative pressure source, and to close other flow channels of the fluid buffer pool;

[0071] Turning on the negative pressure source so that the negative pressure source applies negative pressure to the fluid buffer pool;

[0072] The negative pressure P0' of the fluid buffer pool is detected in real time by the pressure detection element, and it is determined whether the negative pressure P0' reaches the lower limit value P4. After the negative pressure P0' drops to the lower limit value P4, the negative pressure source is closed to complete the negative pressure building.

[0073] In some embodiments, the step of adjusting the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool to a set pressure value or a set pressure range further comprises:

[0074] During use of the fluid buffer pool, the negative pressure P0' of the fluid buffer pool is detected in real time by the pressure detection element, and it is determined whether the negative pressure P0' is higher than the upper limit value P3. If it is higher than the upper limit value P3, the negative pressure source is turned on and the negative pressure source is turned off after the negative pressure P0' drops to the lower limit value P4.

[0075] In some embodiments, the liquid storage and control unit includes: at least two liquid storage containers for storing at least two liquids respectively, and a second control valve connected to the at least two liquid storage containers, at least two fifth ports of the second control valve are connected to the at least two liquid storage containers, and a sixth port of the second control valve is connected to a slide flow channel. The fluid transport system further includes a second flow channel, one end of the second flow channel is connected to the fluid buffer tank, and the other end is connected to the slide flow channel.

[0076] The step of controlling the transport of at least one liquid in the liquid storage and control unit by using the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool includes:

[0077] connecting the sixth port to one of the at least two fifth ports via the second control valve;

[0078] Through the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool, the liquid in the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port connected to the sixth port is controlled to be transported to the wafer flow channel, or the liquid in the wafer flow channel is controlled to be transported to the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port connected to the sixth port.

[0079] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises a first flow path, one end of the first flow path is connected to the seventh port of the second control valve, and the other end of the first flow path is connected to the fluid buffer tank;

[0080] The step of controlling the transport of at least one liquid in the liquid storage and control unit by using the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool includes:

[0081] connecting the seventh port to the at least two fifth ports and one of the sixth port by the second control valve;

[0082] Through the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool, the liquid in the wafer flow channel corresponding to the sixth port connected to the seventh port or the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port is controlled to be transported to the first flow path, or the liquid in the first flow path is controlled to be transported to the wafer flow channel corresponding to the sixth port connected to the seventh port or the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port.

[0083] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises: a waste liquid storage container connected to the fluid buffer tank via a first waste liquid flow path, a waste liquid control valve being provided on the first waste liquid flow path;

[0084] Wherein, the fluid transportation method further comprises:

[0085] connecting the waste liquid control valve to the first waste liquid flow path;

[0086] The waste liquid in the fluid buffer pool is controlled to be transported to the waste liquid storage container via the first waste liquid flow path by the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool.

[0087] In some embodiments, the fluid transport method further comprises:

[0088] After cleaning the flow path in the fluid transport system, connecting the sixth port with one of the at least two fifth ports by the second control valve;

[0089] The residual liquid in the second flow path and the wafer flow channel is blown out to the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port connected to the sixth port through the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool.

[0090] In some embodiments, the liquid storage and control unit includes: at least two liquid storage containers each storing at least two liquids, and a second control valve connected to the at least two liquid storage containers, at least two fifth ports of the second control valve being connected to the at least two liquid storage containers, and a sixth port of the second control valve being connected to a slide flow channel. The fluid transport system further includes at least two third flow paths, one end of the at least two third flow paths being connected to the fluid buffer tank, and the other end being connected to the at least two liquid storage containers, respectively.

[0091] The step of controlling the transport of at least one liquid in the liquid storage and control unit by using the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool includes:

[0092] connecting the sixth port to one of the at least two fifth ports via the second control valve;

[0093] Through the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool, the liquid in the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port connected to the sixth port is controlled to be transported to the wafer flow channel, or the liquid in the wafer flow channel is controlled to be transported to the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port connected to the sixth port.

[0094] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises: a waste liquid storage container and a fourth flow path having two ends connected to the waste liquid storage container and the seventh port of the second control valve, respectively;

[0095] Wherein, the fluid transportation method further comprises:

[0096] connecting the second control valve to the seventh port and one of the at least two fifth ports;

[0097] The gas pressure in the fluid buffer pool is used to control the liquid in the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port connected to the seventh port to be transported to the waste liquid storage container via the fourth flow path.

[0098] In some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises a fifth flow path, one end of the fifth flow path being connected to the waste liquid storage container, and the other end being connected to the slide flow channel;

[0099] wherein the second control valve is connected to the sixth port and one of the at least two fifth ports;

[0100] The air pressure in the fluid buffer pool is used to control the liquid in the wafer flow channel to be transported to the waste liquid storage container via the fifth flow path.

[0101] In some embodiments, the fluid transport method further comprises:

[0102] After cleaning the flow path in the fluid transport system, connecting the sixth port with one of the at least two fifth ports by the second control valve;

[0103] The residual liquid in the second flow path, the wafer carrier flow path and the fifth flow path is blown out to the waste liquid storage container by the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool.

[0104] Therefore, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, operatively connecting a positive pressure source and a negative pressure source to the fluid buffer reservoir enables the fluid buffer reservoir to be adjusted to a desired pressure state, thereby utilizing the pressure state of the fluid buffer reservoir to control the transport of at least one liquid stored in the liquid storage and control unit. Compared to related technologies that utilize syringe pumps to provide positive or negative pressure to transport fluids, embodiments of the present disclosure eliminate the need for frequent syringe operation, thereby achieving a longer service life and lowering equipment costs. Furthermore, the disclosed embodiments can meet the requirements for bidirectional fluid flow within sequencing slides, thereby reducing the complexity and difficulty of sequencing methods. Furthermore, the disclosed embodiments can provide more stable pressure and flow rates for the system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0105] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0106] The present disclosure can be more clearly understood from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0107] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the principles of some embodiments of a fluid transport system according to the present disclosure;

[0108] FIG2 is a schematic structural diagram of some embodiments based on the principle shown in FIG1 ;

[0109] FIG3 is a schematic structural diagram of other embodiments based on the principle shown in FIG1 ;

[0110] FIG4 is a schematic diagram showing principles of other embodiments of the fluid transport system according to the present disclosure;

[0111] FIG5 is a schematic structural diagram of some embodiments based on the principle shown in FIG1 ;

[0112] FIG6 is a schematic diagram of the connection structure of the liquid storage container in the embodiment shown in FIG5 ;

[0113] FIG7 is a schematic flow diagram of some embodiments of the fluid transport method according to the present disclosure;

[0114] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of a specific flow chart of step S10 in some embodiments of the fluid transport method according to the present disclosure;

[0115] FIG9 is a schematic diagram of a specific flow chart of step S10 in other embodiments of the fluid transport method according to the present disclosure.

[0116] It should be understood that the size of each part shown in the drawings is not drawn according to the actual proportional relationship.In addition, the same or similar reference numerals represent the same or similar components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0117] Various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The description of the exemplary embodiments is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present disclosure, its application, or use. The present disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. These embodiments are provided to make the present disclosure thorough and complete and to fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement of parts and steps, the composition of materials, numerical expressions, and numerical values ​​set forth in these embodiments should be interpreted as being merely exemplary and not as limiting.

[0118] The terms "first", "second" and similar terms used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity or importance, but are only used to distinguish different parts. The terms "include" or "comprises" and similar terms mean that the elements before the term include the elements listed after the term, and do not exclude the possibility of also including other elements. The terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right" and the like are only used to indicate relative positional relationships. When the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0119] In the present disclosure, when a specific device is described as being located between a first device and a second device, an intervening device may or may not be present between the specific device and the first device or the second device. When a specific device is described as being connected to another device, the specific device may be directly connected to the other device without an intervening device, or may be not directly connected to the other device but with an intervening device.

[0120] All terms (including technical or scientific terms) used in this disclosure have the same meaning as those understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs, unless otherwise specifically defined. It should also be understood that terms defined in, for example, general dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or highly formal sense, unless explicitly defined herein.

[0121] Technologies, methods, and equipment known to ordinary technicians in the relevant art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, the technologies, methods, and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0122] In some related technologies for gene sequencers, the fluid transport device typically uses a power element such as a syringe pump, which uses the movement of the syringe piston to provide pressure to achieve fluid transport. In other related technologies, gene sequencers use a negative pressure pump and a buffer tank to provide negative pressure to transport fluid.

[0123] The inventors discovered that related-art gene sequencers, which use syringe pumps to provide positive or negative pressure to transport fluids, require frequent syringe operation. Existing syringe pumps have a limited number of operating cycles, resulting in a short lifespan and the need for frequent replacement, leading to high equipment costs. Other related-art gene sequencers, based on the unidirectional negative pressure characteristics of negative pressure pumps, struggle to achieve bidirectional fluid flow within the sequencing slide, increasing the complexity and difficulty of sequencing methods.

[0124] In view of this, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a fluid transport system, a gene sequencer, and a fluid transport method, which can help reduce equipment costs and meet the needs of bidirectional flow of fluid in sequencing slides.

[0125] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the principles of some embodiments of the fluid transport system according to the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 1, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a fluid transport system, including: a fluid buffer tank 107, a positive pressure source 106, a negative pressure source 104 and a liquid storage and control unit 113. The fluid buffer tank 107 can be used to buffer fluids, such as gas, liquid or gas-liquid mixed fluids. The fluid buffer tank 107 can be used as a gas storage tank to stabilize the gas pressure when caching gas, and can be used to temporarily store waste liquid when caching liquid. In order to facilitate the operation of the fluid, more than two fluid interfaces can be provided on the fluid buffer tank. In some embodiments, the fluid buffer tank 107 may include one or more containers, and may also include one or more sections of pipelines, etc.

[0126] The positive pressure source 106 is operably connected to the fluid buffer reservoir 107 and is configured to provide positive pressure to the fluid buffer reservoir 107. In some embodiments, the positive pressure source 106 may include an air pump in the form of a diaphragm pump, a piston pump, or a pressure vessel such as an air tank. For example, the positive pressure source can provide a set positive pressure by turning the air pump on and off or adjusting air pump control parameters. Alternatively, the set positive pressure can be provided by turning a control valve between the air pump or pressure vessel and the fluid buffer reservoir on and off or adjusting the opening.

[0127] The negative pressure source 104 is operably connected to the fluid buffer reservoir 107 and is configured to provide negative pressure to the fluid buffer reservoir 107. In some embodiments, the negative pressure source 104 may include an air pump in the form of a diaphragm pump, a piston pump, or a pressure vessel such as a negative pressure tank. For example, the negative pressure source can provide a set negative pressure by turning the air pump on and off or adjusting its control parameters. Alternatively, the set negative pressure can be provided by turning a control valve between the air pump or pressure vessel and the fluid buffer reservoir on and off or adjusting its opening.

[0128] The liquid storage and control unit 113 is operably connected to the fluid buffer reservoir 107 and is configured to store at least one liquid and control the transport of the at least one liquid according to the pressure state of the fluid buffer reservoir 107. The at least one liquid may include a sample solution, a reagent, a cleaning agent, etc. for testing.

[0129] This embodiment operably connects a positive pressure source and a negative pressure source to the fluid buffer reservoir, enabling the fluid buffer reservoir to be adjusted to a desired pressure state. This pressure state is then used to control the transport of at least one liquid stored in the liquid storage and control unit. Compared to related technologies that utilize syringe pumps to provide positive or negative pressure to transport fluids, this embodiment eliminates the need for frequent syringe operation, resulting in a longer lifespan and lower equipment costs. Furthermore, it can meet the requirements for bidirectional fluid flow within the sequencing slide, thereby reducing the complexity and difficulty of sequencing methods. Furthermore, it provides more stable pressure and flow rates for the system.

[0130] In some embodiments, the negative pressure source 104 and the positive pressure source 106 are separate independent devices that can be operated and controlled separately, or simultaneously or in conjunction with each other. In other embodiments, the negative pressure source 104 and the positive pressure source 106 can also be implemented by the same device, such as a dual-head pump that outputs both positive and negative pressures.

[0131] To more conveniently adjust the air pressure within the fluid buffer pool, in some embodiments, the fluid transport system further includes a first control component 131. The first control component 131 is connected to the positive pressure source 106, the negative pressure source 104, and the fluid buffer pool 107, respectively, and is configured to control the communication status between the positive pressure source 106 and the fluid buffer pool 107, as well as the communication status between the negative pressure source 104 and the fluid buffer pool 107, so as to adjust the air pressure within the fluid buffer pool 107 to a set pressure value or a set pressure range.

[0132] In addition to controlling the communication status between the positive pressure source 106 and the fluid buffer tank 107, and the communication status between the negative pressure source 104 and the fluid buffer tank 107, via the first control assembly 131, in some embodiments, the positive pressure source 106 may have a shutoff function, such that when the positive pressure source 106 is not activated, there is no communication between the positive pressure source 106 and the first control assembly 131. Similarly, in some embodiments, the negative pressure source 104 may have a shutoff function, such that when the negative pressure source 104 is not activated, there is no communication between the negative pressure source 104 and the first control assembly 131.

[0133] In some embodiments, the positive pressure source 106 may include an air filter so that the air entering the fluid buffer tank is filtered gas. In other embodiments, the first control component 131 may include an air filter so that the air entering the fluid buffer tank is filtered gas.

[0134] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of some embodiments based on the principle shown in FIG1. ​​Referring to FIG1 and FIG2, in some embodiments, the first control component 131 includes a first control valve 105. The first control valve 105 has a first port p1, a second port p2, and a third port p3. The first port p1 and the second port p2 are connected to the positive pressure source 106 and the negative pressure source 104, respectively, and the third port p3 is connected to the fluid buffer pool 107. The first control valve 105 is configured to selectively conduct the flow path between the third port p3 and the first port p1 or the flow path between the third port p3 and the second port p2.

[0135] The first control valve 105 may include a reversing valve in the form of a solenoid valve, a pressure-break valve, a pneumatic valve, or a piezoelectric valve. The first control valve 105 can, in one control state, connect the flow path between the third port p3 and the first port p1, thereby connecting the fluid buffer reservoir 107 to the positive pressure source 106. Alternatively, in another control state, the first control valve 105 can connect the flow path between the third port p3 and the second port p2, thereby connecting the fluid buffer reservoir 107 to the negative pressure source 104.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 2 , in some embodiments, the first control valve 105 further includes a fourth port p4. The fourth port p4 is connected to the atmosphere 123, and the first control valve 105 is configured to selectively open the flow path between the fourth port p4 and the third port p3. In a control state, the first control valve 105 can open the flow path between the fourth port p4 and the third port p3, thereby connecting the fluid buffer reservoir 107 to the atmosphere 123 and restoring the fluid buffer reservoir 107 to normal pressure.

[0137] To precisely control the air pressure in the fluid buffer reservoir 107, referring to Figures 1 and 2 , in some embodiments, the fluid transport system further includes a pressure sensing element 103. The pressure sensing element 103 is connected to the fluid buffer reservoir 107 and configured to detect the air pressure therein, thereby controlling the air pressure in the fluid buffer reservoir 107 via the first control component 131. This allows the positive or negative pressure source to be promptly shut off when the air pressure in the fluid buffer reservoir 107 reaches a set pressure, or the third port p3 of the first control valve 105 to be closed. Alternatively, an alarm device may generate an alarm when the air pressure in the fluid buffer reservoir 107 reaches a warning value.

[0138] In some embodiments, in addition to detecting the air pressure in the fluid buffer reservoir 107, the pressure sensing element 103 may also store the air pressure data, compare it to an air pressure threshold, or transmit the pressure data or alarm to a control element. The pressure sensing element 103 may include an air pressure sensor, an air pressure transmitter, etc.

[0139] The fluid buffer tank 107 can store a certain amount of waste liquid. To prevent the waste liquid in the fluid buffer tank 107 from exceeding the allowable amount, referring to Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the fluid transport system may further include a liquid level detection element 102. The liquid level detection element 102 is connected to the fluid buffer tank 107 and is configured to detect the liquid level in the fluid buffer tank 107. This allows the waste liquid to be promptly discharged to a waste liquid collection device when the liquid level in the fluid buffer tank 107 reaches a set level. Alternatively, an alarm device may be configured to generate an alarm when the liquid level in the fluid buffer tank 107 reaches a warning value.

[0140] In some embodiments, in addition to detecting the liquid level in the fluid buffer tank 107, the liquid level detection element 102 can also store liquid level data, compare it to liquid level thresholds, or transmit liquid level data or alarms to a control element. The liquid level detection element 102 can include a contact-type liquid level gauge such as a float, magnetic, capacitive, or magnetostrictive liquid level gauge, or a non-contact liquid level gauge such as an ultrasonic liquid level gauge.

[0141] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the liquid storage and control unit 113 includes at least two liquid storage containers and a second control assembly 132. The at least two liquid storage containers are configured to store at least two liquids, respectively. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate three types of liquid storage containers 115, 116, and 117, which can serve as a sample box for storing a sample solution, a test kit for storing a liquid reagent, and a cleaning box for storing a cleaning solution, respectively. Liquids herein include, but are not limited to, sample solutions, liquid reagents, and cleaning solutions.

[0142] The second control component 132 is connected to the at least two liquid storage containers and is configured to control the transport of liquid between the at least two liquid storage containers and the slide flow channel 118 connected to the second control component 132 according to the pressure state of the fluid buffer pool 107. The slide flow channel 118 is a fluid channel within the slide module 111. The slide module 111 can be used to provide space for sequencing reactions, and it can be a slide with a single flow channel or a slide with multiple flow channels. In a slide with multiple flow channels, the multiple flow channels can be integrated flow channels in which multiple flow channel interfaces are combined into a common interface.

[0143] In FIG2 , the second control assembly 132 may include a second control valve 112. The second control valve 112 has at least two fifth ports p5 and a sixth port p6. The at least two fifth ports p5 may be connected to the at least two liquid storage containers via reagent needles 121, respectively, and the sixth port p6 is used to connect to the slide flow channel 118. The second control valve 112 is configured to selectively connect the sixth port p6 to one of the at least two fifth ports p5.

[0144] The second control valve 112 can suck the liquid in the designated liquid storage container into the wafer carrier flow channel 118 or discharge the liquid in the wafer carrier flow channel 118 into the designated liquid storage container by selectively opening the sixth port p6 and one of the at least two fifth ports p5.

[0145] The second control valve may include a solenoid valve, a rotary valve, or a combination of a solenoid valve and a rotary valve, or may include a peristaltic pump assembly. The second control valve may include a closed port or an air port, and may be switched to the closed port to form a closed flow path or to the air port to inhale or exhaust gas at a certain moment.

[0146] 2 , in some embodiments, the second control valve 112 further comprises a seventh port p7. Referring to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 , in some embodiments, the fluid transport system further comprises a first flow path 114. One end of the first flow path 114 is connected to the seventh port p7, and the other end is connected to the fluid buffer reservoir 107. The second control valve 112 is configured to selectively connect the seventh port p7 to one of the at least two fifth ports p5 and the sixth port p6.

[0147] When the seventh port p7 is connected to one of the at least two fifth ports p5, the liquid in the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port p5 can be sucked into the first flow path 114, so that the liquid can be temporarily stored by using the first flow path 114, or the liquid or gas can be transported to the fluid buffer pool 107 by using the first flow path 114; the liquid temporarily stored in the first flow path 114 can also be transported to the corresponding liquid storage container.

[0148] When the seventh port p7 is connected to the sixth port p6, the liquid in the wafer carrier channel 118 can be sucked into the first flow path 114, so that the liquid can be temporarily stored in the first flow path 114, or the liquid can be transported to the fluid buffer pool 107 by using the first flow path 114; the liquid temporarily stored in the first flow path 114 can also be transported to the wafer carrier channel 118.

[0149] To facilitate driving the flow of liquid in the wafer flow channel 118 by utilizing the pressure state of the fluid buffer reservoir 107, referring to FIG2 , in some embodiments, the fluid transport system further includes a second fluid path 127. One end of the second fluid path 127 is connected to the fluid buffer reservoir 107, and the other end is connected to the wafer flow channel 118. When the second control valve 112 connects the sixth port p6 and one of the at least two fifth ports p5, and the fluid buffer reservoir 107 is at a set positive pressure, the positive pressure of the fluid buffer reservoir 107 can be used to discharge liquid from the wafer flow channel 118 into a designated liquid storage container. When the second control valve 112 connects the sixth port p6 and one of the at least two fifth ports p5, and the fluid buffer reservoir 107 is at a set negative pressure, liquid from the designated liquid storage container can be drawn into the wafer flow channel 118.

[0150] By adjusting the positive pressure or negative pressure in the fluid buffer pool 107, precise control of the transfer direction and transfer volume of the liquid in at least one of the first flow path 114, the carrier flow channel 118 and the second flow path 127 can be achieved.

[0151] Considering that the state of the fluid in the system has a certain influence on the precise transport of the fluid and the accuracy of sample detection, for example, bubbles in the fluid may have an adverse effect on factors such as the stable transport of the fluid, the resistance encountered by the fluid, and the accuracy of sample detection in the slide flow channel 118. Therefore, referring to Figure 2, in some embodiments, the fluid transport system also includes a bubble sensor 122. The bubble sensor 122 can be arranged on the first flow path 114 or on the second flow path 127. The bubble sensor 122 can monitor the bubbles contained in the liquid in the flow path. The bubble sensor 122 can also send an alarm message through an alarm device when the bubbles reach a warning value. The bubble sensor 122 may include a bubble sensor based on infrared, capacitance or ultrasonic detection principles.

[0152] To process waste liquid in the fluid buffer tank 107, referring to FIG1 , in some embodiments, the fluid transport system further includes a waste liquid collection unit 129. The waste liquid collection unit 129 is operably connected to the fluid buffer tank 107 and is configured to collect waste liquid in the fluid buffer tank 107.

[0153] 1 and 2 , in some embodiments, the waste liquid collection unit 129 includes a waste liquid storage container 109 and a waste liquid control valve 108. The waste liquid storage container 109 is connected to the fluid buffer tank 107 via a first waste liquid flow path 120. The waste liquid control valve 108 is disposed on the first waste liquid flow path 120 and is configured to control the flow of the first waste liquid flow path 120.

[0154] The waste liquid control valve 108 can realize the discharge control of the waste liquid in the fluid buffer tank 107. In some embodiments, the waste liquid control valve 108 can include a reversing valve in the form of a solenoid valve, a pressure-breaking valve, an air-controlled valve, a piezoelectric valve, etc.

[0155] The waste liquid storage container 109 may have one or more interfaces that can be used to receive and store all or part of the waste liquid in the fluid buffer pool 107, and can also be used to discharge the stored waste liquid. The waste liquid storage container 109 can also be used to store waste liquid in the flow path of other components in the fluid transport system. The waste liquid storage container 109 can be set inside or outside the instrument, or directly discharged to an external waste liquid treatment system using a waste liquid interface. In some embodiments, the waste liquid collection unit 129 may include one or more waste liquid storage containers 109, or may not include a waste liquid storage container 109.

[0156] 1 and 2 , in some embodiments, the fluid transport system may further include a liquid level detection element 102 connected to the waste liquid collection unit 129. The liquid level detection element 102 is configured to detect the liquid level within the waste liquid collection unit, such as the waste liquid within the waste liquid storage container 109. This allows for prompt discharge of the waste liquid when the liquid level in the waste liquid storage container 109 reaches a set level, or for an alarm device to generate an alarm when the liquid level in the waste liquid storage container 109 reaches a warning value.

[0157] In some embodiments, in addition to detecting the liquid level in the waste liquid storage container 109, the liquid level detection element 102 may also store liquid level data, compare liquid level thresholds, or transmit liquid level data or alarm prompts to a control element. The liquid level detection element 102 may include a contact-type liquid level gauge such as a float, magnetic, capacitive, or magnetostrictive liquid level gauge, or a non-contact liquid level gauge such as an ultrasonic liquid level gauge.

[0158] In addition, according to functional requirements, the waste liquid collection unit 129 may also include an air purification device for purifying the gas discharged from the waste liquid storage container 109 for harmless discharge; or include a secondary overflow prevention device for preventing waste liquid from overflowing.

[0159] Referring to FIG1 , to achieve precise and effective control of fluid transport within the fluid transport system, in some embodiments, the fluid transport system may further include a control unit 101. In FIG1 , the control unit 101 may be signal-connected to at least one of the positive pressure source 106, the negative pressure source 104, the first control assembly 131, the second control assembly 132, and the waste liquid reversing valve 108. It may also be signal-connected to at least one of the pressure sensing element 103 and the liquid level sensing element 102. It may also be signal-connected to the waste liquid storage container 109. In FIG1 , signal connections are drawn with dashed lines to distinguish them from the fluid channels drawn with solid lines.

[0160] The control unit 101 can control its signal-connected devices, such as pump assemblies and valve assemblies, individually or simultaneously by issuing control commands, and can also perform processing functions such as receiving, storing, and analyzing data. The control unit 101 can be a local controller or microprocessor within the fluid transport system, or a communication interface capable of connecting to a network control platform.

[0161] For example, during the process of establishing and applying air pressure in the fluid buffer reservoir 107, the control unit 101 can detect the pressure state within the fluid buffer reservoir 107 via the pressure sensing element 103 and control the positive pressure source 106, the negative pressure source 104, and the first control component 131 to achieve the pressure building process. By utilizing the positive or negative pressure within the fluid buffer reservoir 107 and controlling the second control component 132, one or more liquids can be temporarily stored and transported at different locations within the flow channel. For example, liquid can be directed from a designated liquid storage container to the wafer flow channel 118 within the wafer module 111, or from the wafer flow channel 118 to a designated liquid storage container, or discharged into the fluid buffer reservoir 107.

[0162] According to the pressure data sent by the pressure detection element 103, the control unit 101 can promptly send out an alarm message through the alarm device or terminate the operation of some components or the entire fluid transportation system when the pressure reaches a warning value.

[0163] FIG3 is a schematic structural diagram of some other embodiments based on the principle shown in FIG1 . Referring to FIG1 , FIG2 and FIG3 , in some embodiments, the fluid transport system further includes a fluid buffer area 110. The fluid buffer area 110 is provided on the second flow path 127. The fluid buffer area 110 can be used to cache or store liquids, such as caching reagents that need to be recovered or storing cleaning fluids, so that after the biochemical reaction is completed in the slide module 111, the fluid in the fluid buffer area can be pushed back into the slide flow channel or the reagent kit. The fluid buffer area 110 here can be a container, a section of a pipeline, or a part of a slide.

[0164] Compared to the embodiment shown in FIG2 , the embodiment shown in FIG3 further includes a third control valve 124 . The third control valve 124 is disposed on the second flow path 127 and is configured to control the on / off flow of the second flow path 127 . The third control valve 124 may comprise a reversing valve, such as a solenoid valve, a piezoelectric valve, or a pneumatic reversing valve. By controlling the on / off flow of the second flow path 127 , the third control valve 124 can switch between the pressure buildup process in the fluid buffer pool 107 and the fluid driving process within the second flow path 127 .

[0165] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the principles of other embodiments of the fluid transport system according to the present disclosure. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of some embodiments based on the principle shown in Figure 5. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the connection structure of the liquid storage container in the embodiment shown in Figure 5.

[0166] Compared with the embodiment shown in FIG1 , the positions and connection relationships of the fluid buffer pool 107 , liquid storage and control unit 113 , slide module 111 , fluid buffer area 110 , waste liquid storage container 109 , etc. in the embodiment shown in FIG4 are different.

[0167] Referring to Figures 4 to 6 , in some embodiments, the fluid transport system further includes at least two third flow paths 125. One end of each of the at least two third flow paths 125 is connected to the fluid buffer reservoir 107, and the other end is connected to the at least two liquid storage containers. Thus, by controlling the second control component 132, the air pressure within the fluid buffer reservoir 107 can be utilized to directly drive the liquid in a liquid storage container to flow toward the slide flow channel 118 via the third flow path 125, or the liquid in a liquid storage container can be drawn into the fluid buffer reservoir 107.

[0168] With reference to Figures 5 and 6, in certain embodiments, the at least two 3rd flow paths 125 are communicated with the gaseous space of the at least two liquid storage containers respectively, and the at least two 5th ports p5 are communicated with the liquid space of the at least two liquid storage containers respectively. Specifically, the interface 126 of each liquid storage container can be made to form a sealing structure. At least two 5th ports p5 can connect reagent needle assembly 121, and reagent needle assembly 121 is passed through interface 126, and its liquid suction port is positioned at a lower position, so that it remains below the liquid level and is communicated with the liquid space of the liquid storage container. The port of at least two 3rd flow paths 125 can pass interface 126, and be positioned at a higher position, so that it remains above the liquid level and is communicated with the gaseous space of the liquid storage container.

[0169] Referring to Figure 5 , in some embodiments, the second control valve 112 further has a seventh port p7. The fluid transport system further includes a waste liquid storage container 109 and a fourth flow path 114'. The waste liquid storage container 109 is configured to collect waste liquid from the slide flow path 118. One end of the fourth flow path 114' is connected to the seventh port p7, and the other end is connected to the waste liquid storage container 109.

[0170] When the seventh port p7 is connected to one of the at least two fifth ports p5, the liquid in the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port p5 can be sucked into the fourth flow path 114', so that the fourth flow path 114' can be used to temporarily store the liquid, or the fourth flow path 114' can be used to transport the liquid and gas to the waste liquid storage container 109; the liquid temporarily stored in the fourth flow path 114' can also be transported to the corresponding liquid storage container.

[0171] When the seventh port p7 is connected to the sixth port p6, the liquid in the wafer flow channel 118 can be sucked into the fourth flow channel 114', so that the fourth flow channel 114' can be used to temporarily store the liquid, or the fourth flow channel 114' can be used to transport the liquid to the waste liquid storage container 109; the liquid temporarily stored in the fourth flow channel 114' can also be transported to the wafer flow channel 118.

[0172] In Figure 5 , the fluid transport system may further include a fifth flow path 128. One end of the fifth flow path 128 is connected to the waste liquid storage container 109, and the other end is connected to the slide flow channel 118. In this way, the pressure state of the fluid buffer reservoir 107 can be used to drive the liquid in the slide flow channel 118 to be discharged into the waste liquid storage container 109.

[0173] 4 and 5 , in some embodiments, a fluid buffer area 110 may be further provided on the fifth flow path 128. The fluid buffer area 110 may be used to cache or store liquids, for example, to cache reagents that need to be recovered or to store cleaning fluids, so that after the biochemical reaction in the slide module 111 is completed, the fluid in the fluid buffer area can be pushed back into the slide flow path or reagent cartridge.

[0174] In some embodiments, a bubble sensor 122 may be provided on at least one of the fourth flow path 114' and the fifth flow path 128. The bubble sensor 122 may monitor bubbles contained in the liquid within the flow path. The bubble sensor 122 may also generate an alarm when the bubble level reaches a threshold.

[0175] 1 to 3 , the embodiments shown in FIG4 and FIG5 may also include a liquid level detection element 102. The liquid level detection element 102 is connected to the fluid buffer tank 107 and / or the waste liquid collection unit and is configured to detect the liquid level in the fluid buffer tank 107 and / or the waste liquid collection unit.

[0176] The fluid transport system of the above embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to various devices or systems that require fluid transport, such as gene sequencers. Therefore, in one aspect of the present disclosure, a gene sequencer is also provided, including the fluid transport system of any of the above embodiments.

[0177] FIG7 is a flow chart illustrating some embodiments of the fluid transport method according to the present disclosure. Referring to the fluid transport system of any of the aforementioned embodiments and FIG7 , embodiments of the present disclosure provide a fluid transport method, comprising steps S10 and S20. In step S10, the air pressure within the fluid buffer tank 107 is adjusted to a set pressure value or a set pressure range by controlling the connection between the positive pressure source 106 and the fluid buffer tank 107, as well as the connection between the negative pressure source 104 and the fluid buffer tank 107. In step S20, the transport of at least one liquid in the liquid storage and control unit 113 is controlled by the air pressure within the fluid buffer tank 107.

[0178] This embodiment controls the connection between the positive pressure source and the fluid buffer reservoir, as well as the connection between the negative pressure source and the fluid buffer reservoir, to adjust the fluid buffer reservoir to a desired pressure. This pressure is then used to control the transport of at least one liquid stored in the liquid storage and control unit. Compared to related technologies that utilize syringe pumps to provide positive or negative pressure to transport fluids, this embodiment eliminates the need for frequent syringe operation, resulting in a longer lifespan and lower equipment costs. Furthermore, it can meet the requirements for bidirectional fluid flow within a sequencing slide, thereby reducing the complexity and difficulty of sequencing methods.

[0179] Figure 8 is a schematic flow chart illustrating step S10 in some embodiments of the fluid transport method according to the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 8 , in some embodiments, the fluid transport system further includes a first control assembly 131 connected to the positive pressure source 106, the negative pressure source 104, and the fluid buffer reservoir 107, respectively, and a pressure detection element 103 connected to the fluid buffer reservoir 107. Accordingly, the step of adjusting the air pressure within the fluid buffer reservoir 107 to a set pressure value or within a set pressure range in step S10 may include steps S11 through S16.

[0180] In step S11, a positive pressure building instruction is received to establish a set positive pressure range, wherein the lower limit of the set positive pressure range is P1 and the upper limit is P2. The positive pressure building instruction can be issued by the control unit 101 or input by the operator.

[0181] In step S12, the first control assembly 131 opens the flow path between the fluid buffer reservoir 107 and the positive pressure source 106 and closes the other flow paths of the fluid buffer reservoir 107. During pressure buildup, the fluid buffer reservoir 107 must be closed and disconnected from other components (e.g., the second control assembly 132 and the waste fluid reversing valve 108).

[0182] In step S13 , the positive pressure source 106 is turned on so that the positive pressure source 106 applies positive pressure to the fluid buffer pool 107 .

[0183] In step S14, the positive pressure P0 of the fluid buffer pool 107 is detected in real time by the pressure detection element 103. This process can collect the value of the positive pressure P0 of the fluid buffer pool 107 once every collection period (e.g., 0.05, 0.1, or 0.3 seconds).

[0184] In step S15, it is determined whether the positive pressure P0 has not risen to the upper limit value P2. If it has not risen to the upper limit value P2, the process returns to step S14. If it has risen to the upper limit value P2, the process goes to step S16. The determination operation can also be performed in real time, for example, using a period that is the same as or different from the acquisition period.

[0185] In step S16, the positive pressure source 106 is turned off, thereby completing the positive pressure build-up.

[0186] Considering that the positive pressure in the fluid buffer pool 107 is continuously consumed during use and the positive pressure gradually decreases, in some embodiments, in step S10, the step of adjusting the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool 107 to a set pressure value or a set pressure range may further include: during use of the fluid buffer pool 107, detecting the positive pressure P0 of the fluid buffer pool 107 in real time by the pressure detection element 103, and determining whether the positive pressure P0 is lower than the lower limit value P1; if it is lower than the lower limit value P1, turning on the positive pressure source 106, and then turning off the positive pressure source 106 until the positive pressure P0 rises to the upper limit value P2.

[0187] Figure 9 is a schematic flow chart illustrating a specific embodiment of step S10 in other embodiments of the fluid transport method according to the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 9, in some embodiments, the fluid transport system further includes a first control assembly 131 connected to the positive pressure source 106, the negative pressure source 104, and the fluid buffer reservoir 107, respectively, and a pressure detection element 103 connected to the fluid buffer reservoir 107. Accordingly, the step of adjusting the air pressure within the fluid buffer reservoir 107 to a set pressure value or within a set pressure range in step S10 may include steps S11' through S16'.

[0188] In step S11', a negative pressure building instruction is received to establish a set negative pressure range, wherein the upper limit of the set negative pressure range is P3 and the lower limit is P4. The negative pressure building instruction can be issued by the control unit 101 or input by the operator.

[0189] In step S12', the first control assembly 131 opens the flow path between the fluid buffer pool 107 and the negative pressure source 104, and closes the other flow paths of the fluid buffer pool 107. During pressure buildup, the fluid buffer pool 107 must be closed and disconnected from other components (e.g., the second control assembly 132 and the waste liquid reversing valve 108).

[0190] In step S13 ′, the negative pressure source 104 is turned on so that the negative pressure source 104 applies negative pressure to the fluid buffer pool 107 .

[0191] In step S14', the negative pressure P0' of the fluid buffer pool 107 is detected in real time by the pressure detection element 103. This process can collect the value of the negative pressure P0' of the fluid buffer pool 107 once every collection period (e.g., 0.05, 0.1, or 0.3 seconds).

[0192] In step S15', it is determined whether the negative pressure P0' has not dropped to the lower limit value P4. If it has not dropped to the lower limit value P4, the process returns to step S14'. If it has dropped to the lower limit value P4, the process proceeds to step S16'. The determination operation can also be performed in real time, for example, using a period that is the same as or different from the acquisition period.

[0193] In step S16 ′, the negative pressure source 104 is turned off, thereby completing the negative pressure build-up.

[0194] Considering that the negative pressure in the fluid buffer pool 107 is continuously consumed and gradually increases during use, the step of adjusting the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool 107 to a set pressure value or a set pressure range in step S10 may further include: during use of the fluid buffer pool 107, detecting the negative pressure P0' of the fluid buffer pool 107 in real time by the pressure detection element 103, and determining whether the negative pressure P0' is higher than an upper limit value P3. If the negative pressure P0' is higher than the upper limit value P3, turning on the negative pressure source 104, and then turning off the negative pressure source 104 until the negative pressure P0' drops to a lower limit value P4.

[0195] During the above pressure building process, accurate configuration of the set pressure in the fluid buffer pool 107 is achieved through real-time detection of the pressure detection element in conjunction with the positive pressure source or negative pressure source and the gating function of the first control component 131.

[0196] 1 to 3 , in some embodiments, the liquid storage and control unit 113 may include: at least two liquid storage containers each storing at least two liquids; and a second control valve 112 connected to the at least two liquid storage containers. At least two fifth ports p5 of the second control valve 112 are connected to the at least two liquid storage containers; and a sixth port p6 of the second control valve 112 is connected to a wafer flow channel 118. The fluid transport system further includes a second flow channel 127, one end of which is connected to the fluid buffer reservoir 107 and the other end is connected to the wafer flow channel 118.

[0197] Correspondingly, step S20 may include: making the second control valve 112 connect the sixth port p6 and one of the at least two fifth ports p5; controlling the liquid in the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port p5 connected to the sixth port p6 to be transported to the wafer flow channel 118 through the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool 107, or controlling the liquid in the wafer flow channel 118 to be transported to the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port p5 connected to the sixth port p6.

[0198] 1 to 3 , the fluid transport system may further include a first flow path 114 . One end of the first flow path 114 is connected to the seventh port p7 of the second control valve 112 , and the other end is connected to the fluid buffer tank 107 .

[0199] Accordingly, step S20 may include: connecting the seventh port p7 to one of the at least two fifth ports p5 and the sixth port p6 by the second control valve 112. By controlling the gas pressure in the fluid buffer reservoir 107, liquid in the wafer flow channel 118 corresponding to the sixth port p6 connected to the seventh port p7 or the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port p5 is transported to the first flow channel 114, or liquid in the first flow channel 114 is transported to the wafer flow channel 118 corresponding to the sixth port p6 connected to the seventh port p7 or the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port p5.

[0200] To effectively drain waste liquid, in some embodiments, the fluid transport system further includes a waste liquid storage container 109 connected to the fluid buffer tank 107 via a first waste liquid flow path 120, with a waste liquid control valve 108 provided on the first waste liquid flow path 120. Accordingly, the fluid transport method may further include: connecting the waste liquid control valve 108 to the first waste liquid flow path 120; and controlling the waste liquid in the fluid buffer tank 107 to be transported to the waste liquid storage container 109 via the first waste liquid flow path 120 by utilizing the air pressure within the fluid buffer tank 107.

[0201] When the set time is reached or the liquid level monitoring element 102 in the fluid buffer tank 107 detects that the liquid level has reached a set value, the waste liquid control valve 108 can be switched to transport the waste liquid in the fluid buffer tank 107 to the waste liquid storage container 109 via the first waste liquid flow path 120. If the liquid level monitoring element 102 detects that the liquid level in the fluid buffer tank 107 or the waste liquid storage container 109 has reached a warning value, an alarm message will be issued through the alarm device.

[0202] In the above embodiment, the fluid transport method may also include: after cleaning the flow path in the fluid transport system, making the second control valve 112 connect the sixth port p6 and one of the at least two fifth ports p5; through the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool 107, the residual liquid in the second flow path 127 and the carrier flow channel 118 is pushed to the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port p5 connected to the sixth port p6, thereby realizing reagent recovery.

[0203] Referring to Figures 4 to 6, in some embodiments, the liquid storage and control unit 113 includes: at least two liquid storage containers for storing at least two liquids respectively and a second control valve 112 connected to the at least two liquid storage containers, at least two fifth ports p5 of the second control valve 112 are connected to the at least two liquid storage containers, and the sixth port p6 of the second control valve 112 is connected to the wafer flow channel 118. The fluid transport system also includes at least two third flow paths 125, one end of the at least two third flow paths 125 is connected to the fluid buffer pool 107, and the other end is respectively connected to the at least two liquid storage containers.

[0204] Correspondingly, step S20 may include: making the second control valve 112 connect the sixth port p6 and one of the at least two fifth ports p5; controlling the liquid in the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port p5 connected to the sixth port p6 to be transported to the wafer flow channel 118 through the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool 107, or controlling the liquid in the wafer flow channel 118 to be transported to the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port p5 connected to the sixth port p6.

[0205] In Figures 4 to 6, to effectively drain waste liquid, in some embodiments, the fluid transport system further includes: a waste liquid storage container 109 and a fourth flow path 114' having its ends connected to the waste liquid storage container 109 and the seventh port p7 of the second control valve 112. Accordingly, the fluid transport method may further include: connecting the second control valve 112 to the seventh port p7 and one of the at least two fifth ports p5; and controlling the liquid in the liquid storage container corresponding to the fifth port p5 connected to the seventh port p7 to be transported to the waste liquid storage container 109 via the fourth flow path 114' using the air pressure within the fluid buffer tank 107.

[0206] Furthermore, the fluid transport system may further include a fifth flow path 128, one end of which is connected to the waste liquid storage container 109 and the other end of which is connected to the slide flow path 118. Accordingly, the second control valve 112 is connected to the sixth port p6 and one of the at least two fifth ports p5; the air pressure within the fluid buffer reservoir 107 controls the liquid within the slide flow path 118 to be transported to the waste liquid storage container 109 via the fifth flow path 128.

[0207] In the above embodiment, the fluid transport method may also include: after cleaning the flow path in the fluid transport system, connecting the second control valve 112 to the sixth port p6 and one of the at least two fifth ports p5; and blowing the residual liquid in the second flow path 127, the wafer flow channel 118 and the fifth flow path 128 to the waste liquid storage container 109 through the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool 107.

[0208] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with different focuses between the embodiments. References to the common or similar parts between the embodiments are sufficient. For the method embodiments, the overall structure and steps involved correspond to those in the system embodiments, so the description is relatively simple. For relevant parts, references to the system embodiments are sufficient.

[0209] Thus far, various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concept of the present disclosure, some details known in the art have not been described. Based on the above description, those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solutions disclosed herein.

[0210] Although some specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail through examples, those skilled in the art will understand that the above examples are for illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the above embodiments may be modified or some technical features may be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fluid transport system comprising: Fluid buffer pool (107); a positive pressure source (106), operatively connected to the fluid buffer pool (107), and configured to provide positive pressure to the fluid buffer pool (107); a negative pressure source (104), operatively connected to the fluid buffer pool (107), and configured to provide negative pressure to the fluid buffer pool (107); and The liquid storage and control unit (113) is operably connected to the fluid buffer tank (107), and is configured to store at least one liquid and control the transportation of the at least one liquid according to the pressure state of the fluid buffer tank (107).

2. The fluid transport system according to claim 1, further comprising: The first control component (131) is connected to the positive pressure source (106), the negative pressure source (104) and the fluid buffer pool (107) respectively, and is configured to control the communication state between the positive pressure source (106) and the fluid buffer pool (107) and the communication state between the negative pressure source (104) and the fluid buffer pool (107) so as to adjust the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) to a set pressure value or a set pressure range.

3. The fluid transport system according to claim 2, wherein: The first control component (131) comprises: The first control valve (105) has a first port (p1), a second port (p2), and a third port (p3), wherein the first port (p1) and the second port (p2) are connected to the positive pressure source (106) and the negative pressure source (104), respectively, and the third port (p3) is connected to the fluid buffer pool (107). The first control valve (105) is configured to selectively open the flow path between the third port (p3) and the first port (p1) or the flow path between the third port (p3) and the second port (p2).

4. The fluid transport system according to claim 3, wherein: The first control valve (105) further has a fourth port (p4) communicating with the atmosphere (123), and the first control valve (105) is configured to selectively open a flow path between the fourth port (p4) and the third port (p3).

5. The fluid transport system according to any one of claims 2 to 4, further comprising: The pressure detection element (103) is connected to the fluid buffer pool (107) and is configured to detect the air pressure of the fluid buffer pool (107) so as to control the air pressure of the fluid buffer pool (107) through the first control component (131).

6. The fluid transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The liquid storage and control unit (113) comprises: at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117), configured to store at least two liquids, respectively; and The second control component (132) is connected to the at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117) and is configured to control the transport of liquid between the at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117) and the wafer flow channel connected to the second control component (132) according to the pressure state of the fluid buffer pool (107).

7. The fluid transport system according to claim 6, wherein: The second control component (132) includes: The second control valve (112) has at least two fifth ports (p5) and a sixth port (p6), wherein the at least two fifth ports (p5) are connected to the at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117) respectively, and the sixth port (p6) is used to connect to the wafer flow channel. The second control valve (112) is configured to selectively open the sixth port (p6) and one of the at least two fifth ports (p5).

8. The fluid transport system according to claim 7, wherein: The second control valve (112) further has a seventh port (p7), and the fluid transport system further comprises: a first flow path (114), one end of the first flow path (114) being connected to the seventh port (p7), and the other end being connected to the fluid buffer pool (107); The second control valve (112) is configured to selectively connect the seventh port (p7) to one of the at least two fifth ports (p5) and the sixth port (p6).

9. The fluid transport system according to any one of claims 6 to 8, further comprising: A second flow path (127), one end of the second flow path (127) is connected to the fluid buffer pool (107), and the other end is used to connect to the wafer flow channel (118).

10. The fluid transport system of claim 9, further comprising: The fluid buffer area (110) is arranged on the second flow path (127).

11. The fluid transport system of claim 10, further comprising: The third control valve (124) is provided on the second flow path (127) and is configured to control the opening and closing of the second flow path (127).

12. The fluid transport system according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising: A bubble sensor (122) is provided on at least one of the first flow path (114) and the second flow path (127).

13. The fluid transport system according to any one of claims 8 to 12, further comprising: The waste liquid collection unit (129) is operably connected to the fluid buffer tank (107) and is configured to collect waste liquid in the fluid buffer tank (107).

14. The fluid transport system of claim 13, wherein: The waste liquid collection unit (129) comprises: a waste liquid storage container (109), connected to the fluid buffer tank (107) via a first waste liquid flow path (120); and The waste liquid control valve (108) is provided on the first waste liquid flow path (120) and is configured to control the on-off of the first waste liquid flow path (120).

15. The fluid transport system of claim 7, further comprising: At least two third flow paths (125), one end of the at least two third flow paths (125) is connected to the fluid buffer pool (107), and the other end is connected to the at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117).

16. The fluid transport system of claim 15, wherein: The at least two third flow paths (125) are respectively connected to the gas phase spaces of the at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117), and the at least two fifth ports (p5) are respectively connected to the liquid phase spaces of the at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117).

17. The fluid transport system according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The second control valve (112) further has a seventh port (p7), and the fluid transport system further comprises: a waste liquid storage container (109) configured to collect waste liquid in the wafer carrier flow channel (118); and A fourth flow path (114'), one end of which is connected to the seventh port (p7), and the other end of which is connected to the waste liquid storage container (109).

18. The fluid transport system of claim 17, further comprising: A fifth flow path (128), one end of the fifth flow path (128) is connected to the waste liquid storage container (109), and the other end is used to connect to the wafer flow path (118).

19. The fluid transport system of claim 18, further comprising: The fluid buffer area (110) is arranged on the fifth flow path (128).

20. The fluid transport system according to claim 18 or 19, further comprising: The bubble sensor (122) is provided on at least one of the fourth flow path (114') and the fifth flow path (128).

21. The fluid transport system according to any one of claims 13 to 20, further comprising: The liquid level detection element (102) is connected to the fluid buffer tank (107) and / or the waste liquid collection unit (129), and is configured to detect the liquid level in the fluid buffer tank (107) and / or the waste liquid collection unit (129).

22. A gene sequencer comprising: The fluid transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

23. A fluid transport method based on the fluid transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 21, comprising: By controlling the communication state between the positive pressure source (106) and the fluid buffer pool (107) and the communication state between the negative pressure source (104) and the fluid buffer pool (107), the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) is adjusted to a set pressure value or a set pressure range; The transport of at least one liquid in the liquid storage and control unit (113) is controlled by the air pressure in the fluid buffer tank (107).

24. The fluid transport method according to claim 23, wherein: The fluid transport system further includes a first control component (131) connected to the positive pressure source (106), the negative pressure source (104) and the fluid buffer pool (107) respectively, and a pressure detection element (103) connected to the fluid buffer pool (107); The step of adjusting the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) to a set pressure value or a set pressure range comprises: receiving a positive pressure building instruction for establishing a set positive pressure range, wherein the lower limit value of the set positive pressure range is P1 and the upper limit value is P2; The first control component (131) opens the flow passage between the fluid buffer pool (107) and the positive pressure source (106), and closes other flow passages of the fluid buffer pool (107); Turning on the positive pressure source (106) so that the positive pressure source (106) applies positive pressure to the fluid buffer pool (107); The positive pressure P0 of the fluid buffer pool (107) is detected in real time by the pressure detection element (103), and it is determined whether the positive pressure P0 reaches the upper limit value P2. After the positive pressure P0 rises to the upper limit value P2, the positive pressure source (106) is closed, thereby completing the positive pressure building.

25. The fluid transport method according to claim 24, wherein: The step of adjusting the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) to a set pressure value or a set pressure range further comprises: During the use of the fluid buffer pool (107), the positive pressure P0 of the fluid buffer pool (107) is detected in real time by the pressure detection element (103), and it is determined whether the positive pressure P0 is lower than the lower limit value P1. If it is lower than the lower limit value P1, the positive pressure source (106) is turned on until the positive pressure P0 rises to the upper limit value P2, and then the positive pressure source (106) is turned off.

26. The fluid transport method according to claim 23, wherein: The fluid transport system further includes a first control component (131) connected to the positive pressure source (106), the negative pressure source (104) and the fluid buffer pool (107) respectively, and a pressure detection element (103) connected to the fluid buffer pool (107); The step of adjusting the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) to a set pressure value or a set pressure range comprises: Receive a negative pressure building instruction for establishing a set negative pressure range, wherein the upper limit value of the set negative pressure range is P3 and the lower limit value is P4; The first control component (131) opens the flow passage between the fluid buffer pool (107) and the negative pressure source (104), and closes other flow passages of the fluid buffer pool (107); Turning on the negative pressure source (104) so ​​that the negative pressure source (104) applies negative pressure to the fluid buffer pool (107); The negative pressure P0' of the fluid buffer pool (107) is detected in real time by the pressure detection element (103), and it is determined whether the negative pressure P0' reaches the lower limit value P4, and the negative pressure source (104) is closed after the negative pressure P0' drops to the lower limit value P4, thereby completing the negative pressure building.

27. The fluid transport method according to claim 26, wherein: The step of adjusting the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) to a set pressure value or a set pressure range further comprises: During use of the fluid buffer pool (107), the negative pressure P0' of the fluid buffer pool (107) is detected in real time by the pressure detection element (103), and it is determined whether the negative pressure P0' is higher than the upper limit value P3. If it is higher than the upper limit value P3, the negative pressure source (104) is turned on and the negative pressure source (104) is turned off after the negative pressure P0' drops to the lower limit value P4.

28. The fluid transport method according to any one of claims 23 to 27, wherein: The liquid storage and control unit (113) comprises: at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117) for storing at least two liquids respectively, and a second control valve (112) connected to the at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117), at least two fifth ports (p5) of the second control valve (112) are connected to the at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117), and a sixth port (p6) of the second control valve (112) is connected to a wafer flow channel (118). The fluid transport system further comprises a second flow path (127), one end of the second flow path (127) is connected to the fluid buffer pool (107), and the other end is connected to the wafer flow channel (118); The step of controlling the transport of at least one liquid in the liquid storage and control unit (113) by the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) comprises: enabling the second control valve (112) to connect the sixth port (p6) and one of the at least two fifth ports (p5); The gas pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) is used to control the liquid in the liquid storage container (115, 116, 117) corresponding to the fifth port (p5) connected to the sixth port (p6) to be transported to the wafer flow channel (118), or the liquid in the wafer flow channel (118) is controlled to be transported to the liquid storage container (115, 116, 117) corresponding to the fifth port (p5) connected to the sixth port (p6).

29. The fluid transport method according to claim 28, wherein: The fluid transport system further comprises a first flow path (114), one end of the first flow path (114) being connected to the seventh port (p7) of the second control valve (112), and the other end being connected to the fluid buffer pool (107); The step of controlling the transport of at least one liquid in the liquid storage and control unit (113) by the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) comprises: enabling the second control valve (112) to connect the seventh port (p7) with one of the at least two fifth ports (p5) and the sixth port (p6); The air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) is used to control the liquid in the wafer flow channel (118) corresponding to the sixth port (p6) connected to the seventh port (p7) or the liquid storage container (115, 116, 117) corresponding to the fifth port (p5) to be transported to the first flow path (114), or the liquid in the first flow path (114) is controlled to be transported to the wafer flow channel (118) corresponding to the sixth port (p6) connected to the seventh port (p7) or the liquid storage container (115, 116, 117) corresponding to the fifth port (p5).

30. The fluid transport method according to claim 28 or 29, wherein: The fluid transport system further comprises: a waste liquid storage container (109) connected to the fluid buffer pool (107) via a first waste liquid flow path (120), and a waste liquid control valve (108) is provided on the first waste liquid flow path (120); Wherein, the fluid transportation method further comprises: connecting the waste liquid control valve (108) to the first waste liquid flow path (120); The waste liquid in the fluid buffer pool (107) is controlled by the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) to be transported to the waste liquid storage container (109) via the first waste liquid flow path (120).

31. The fluid transport method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, further comprising: After cleaning the flow path in the fluid transport system, the second control valve (112) is connected to the sixth port (p6) and one of the at least two fifth ports (p5); The residual liquid in the second flow path (127) and the wafer flow path (118) is blown out to the liquid storage container (115, 116, 117) corresponding to the fifth port (p5) connected to the sixth port (p6) through the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107).

32. The fluid transport method according to any one of claims 23 to 27, wherein: The liquid storage and control unit (113) comprises: at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117) for storing at least two liquids respectively, and a second control valve (112) connected to the at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117), at least two fifth ports (p5) of the second control valve (112) are connected to the at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117), and a sixth port (p6) of the second control valve (112) is connected to a wafer flow channel (118); the fluid transport system further comprises at least two third flow paths (125), one end of the at least two third flow paths (125) is connected to the fluid buffer pool (107), and the other end is connected to the at least two liquid storage containers (115, 116, 117) respectively; The step of controlling the transport of at least one liquid in the liquid storage and control unit (113) by the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) comprises: enabling the second control valve (112) to connect the sixth port (p6) and one of the at least two fifth ports (p5); The gas pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) is used to control the liquid in the liquid storage container (115, 116, 117) corresponding to the fifth port (p5) connected to the sixth port (p6) to be transported to the wafer flow channel (118), or the liquid in the wafer flow channel (118) is controlled to be transported to the liquid storage container (115, 116, 117) corresponding to the fifth port (p5) connected to the sixth port (p6).

33. The fluid transport method according to claim 32, wherein: The fluid transport system further includes: a waste liquid storage container (109) and a fourth flow path (114') having two ends connected to the waste liquid storage container (109) and a seventh port (p7) of the second control valve (112); Wherein, the fluid transportation method further comprises: Make the second control valve (112) conduct the seventh port (p7) and one of the at least two fifth ports (p5); The air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) controls the liquid in the liquid storage container (115, 116, 117) corresponding to the fifth port (p5) connected to the seventh port (p7) to be transported to the waste liquid storage container (109) via the fourth flow path (114').

34. The fluid transport method according to claim 33, wherein: The fluid transport system further comprises a fifth flow path (128), one end of the fifth flow path (128) is connected to the waste liquid storage container (109), and the other end is used to connect to the slide flow channel (118); wherein the second control valve (112) is connected to the sixth port (p6) and one of the at least two fifth ports (p5); The air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107) is used to control the liquid in the wafer flow channel (118) to be transported to the waste liquid storage container (109) via the fifth flow path (128).

35. The fluid transport method according to claim 34, further comprising: After cleaning the flow path in the fluid transport system, the second control valve (112) is connected to the sixth port (p6) and one of the at least two fifth ports (p5); The residual liquid in the second flow path (127), the wafer flow path (118) and the fifth flow path (128) is blown out to the waste liquid storage container (109) through the air pressure in the fluid buffer pool (107).

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