In-orbit microorganism microscopic detection device

Abstract

This invention discloses an in-orbit microbial microscopic observation device, comprising a device body; a chip cartridge inserted into the device body for microbial killing detection; an observation module disposed within the device body for observing the growth status and killing effect of microorganisms within the chip cartridge; and a control module disposed within the device body, electrically connected to both the chip cartridge and the observation module for controlling both. The chip cartridge includes a cartridge shell and a chip assembly disposed within the cartridge shell. By setting different structures of the chip assembly, the chip cartridge can adapt to the cultivation and killing detection needs of different microorganisms. This invention, by setting different structures of the chip assembly, enables different killing detection and research on different microorganisms, and can adapt to the killing performance testing needs of various microbial samples, improving the applicability and flexibility of the device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of biomedical detection, and in particular to an on-orbit microscopic detection device for microorganisms. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of aerospace technology, space stations have become an important platform for humankind to explore the universe and conduct scientific research. However, as humans and cargo continuously enter space stations, Earth microorganisms inevitably enter the space environment, posing unprecedented challenges to the microbial safety and control of space stations. Inside the manned cabin of a space station, the environment is complex and variable, with diverse sources of microorganisms, including those carried by astronauts themselves, cargo, and those transmitted through the air. Currently, space stations primarily use air filtration devices to remove airborne microorganisms, while vacuum cleaners and cloths soaked in detergents or disinfectants are used to clean the cabin surfaces. Furthermore, the space station has established strict cleaning procedures to ensure the hygiene of the cabin environment. However, existing disinfection methods have many shortcomings. First, the consumption of consumable materials is enormous, such as vacuum cleaner bags, paper towels, and water disinfectants, which need to be constantly replenished from Earth, putting immense pressure on the space station's resupply. Second, surface cleaning is labor-intensive; astronauts need to spend a significant amount of time and energy cleaning the cabin surfaces, and traditional methods often struggle to reach microorganisms in equipment back panels, corners, and crevices, resulting in ineffective cleaning. Furthermore, overuse of disinfectants can lead to microbial resistance, especially as the space station's operational time increases, resulting in a growing number of drug-resistant microorganisms within the cabin. These resistant microorganisms form biofilms, making them even more resistant to disinfectants, and simply wiping with ordinary chemical disinfectant wipes is insufficient to completely remove them. Moreover, researchers have found that antimicrobial drug molecules become unstable under microgravity and radiation conditions, weakening their effectiveness. Additionally, existing microbial eradication detection devices on the space station cannot accurately assess the effectiveness of microbial eradication. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To overcome the shortcomings of the existing technology, the present invention provides an on-orbit microbial microscopic observation device to solve the problems that the existing disinfection methods of space stations cannot meet the requirements of long-term and broad-spectrum sterilization and the difficulty in accurately evaluating the sterilization effect.

[0004] To achieve the above technical objectives, the following technical solution is adopted:

[0005] This invention provides an in-orbit microscopic detection device for microorganisms, comprising:

[0006] device body;

[0007] A chip cartridge is inserted into the device body for microbial killing detection;

[0008] An observation module, located within the device itself, is used to observe the growth of microorganisms and their killing effect within the chip cartridge.

[0009] The control module, located within the device body, is electrically connected to both the chip cartridge and the observation module, and is used to control the chip cartridge and the observation module.

[0010] The chip cartridge includes a cartridge shell and a chip assembly disposed within the cartridge shell; the chip cartridge can adapt to the cultivation and killing detection needs of different microorganisms by setting chip assemblies with different structures.

[0011] Optionally, the chip assembly includes a first nutrient solution chamber, a first buffer solution chamber, a first mixing chamber, and a plurality of first reaction units;

[0012] The outlet ends of the first nutrient solution chamber and the first buffer solution chamber are respectively connected to the inlet end of the first mixing chamber, and the outlet end of the first mixing chamber is respectively connected to the inlet ends of a plurality of first reaction units; the first mixing chamber is pre-filled with freeze-dried microbial bulbs.

[0013] Optionally, the chip assembly further includes a first control unit; the first control unit includes a first peristaltic pump, a second peristaltic pump, and a diaphragm pump;

[0014] The inlet of the first peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet of the first nutrient solution chamber, the inlet of the second peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet of the first buffer solution chamber, and the outlets of the first and second peristaltic pumps are respectively connected to the inlet of the first mixing chamber; the inlet of the diaphragm pump is connected to the outlet of the first mixing chamber, and the outlet of the diaphragm pump is respectively connected to the inlet of a plurality of first reaction units;

[0015] The input terminals of the first peristaltic pump, the second peristaltic pump, and the diaphragm pump are electrically connected to the output terminal of the control module, respectively.

[0016] Optionally, the first reaction unit includes a first solenoid valve and a first sample reaction chamber; the inlet end of the first solenoid valve is connected to the outlet end of the diaphragm pump, and the outlet end of the first solenoid valve is connected to the inlet end of the first sample reaction chamber; a first reaction sample is pre-placed in the first sample reaction chamber.

[0017] The input terminal of the first solenoid valve is electrically connected to the output terminal of the control module.

[0018] Optionally, the chip cartridge may further include a waste liquid cartridge and several double self-locking quick connectors;

[0019] The waste liquid cartridge includes a waste liquid cartridge body and a plurality of waste liquid bags disposed within the waste liquid cartridge body; the top of the cartridge shell has a plurality of waste liquid inlets, and the waste liquid inlets are connected to the corresponding waste liquid bags;

[0020] One end of the double self-locking quick connector is connected to the liquid outlet of the first sample reaction chamber, and the other end is inserted into or removed from the waste liquid cartridge through the waste liquid inlet to discharge the waste liquid in the first sample reaction chamber into the waste liquid bag.

[0021] Optionally, the chip assembly includes a first reaction chamber, a second reaction chamber, a second nutrient chamber, a second buffer chamber, a second mixing chamber, a plurality of second reaction units, and a plurality of third reaction units;

[0022] The outlet ends of the first reaction liquid chamber and the second buffer chamber are respectively connected to the inlet ends of a plurality of second reaction units; the outlet ends of the second nutrient liquid chamber and the second buffer chamber are respectively connected to the inlet ends of the second mixing chamber; the outlet end of the second reaction liquid chamber is connected to the inlet end of the second mixing chamber, and the outlet end of the second mixing chamber is respectively connected to the inlet ends of a plurality of third reaction units; the second mixing chamber is pre-filled with freeze-dried microbial bulbs.

[0023] Optionally, the chip assembly further includes a second control unit;

[0024] The input terminal of the second control unit is electrically connected to the output terminal of the control module; the second control unit includes a third peristaltic pump, a fourth peristaltic pump, a fifth peristaltic pump, a sixth peristaltic pump, and a seventh peristaltic pump;

[0025] The inlet end of the third peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet end of the first reaction chamber, and the outlet end of the third peristaltic pump is connected to the inlet ends of several second reaction units respectively; the inlet end of the fourth peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet end of the second buffer chamber, and the outlet end of the fourth peristaltic pump is connected to the inlet ends of the second mixing chamber and several second reaction units respectively.

[0026] The inlet end of the fifth peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet end of the second nutrient solution chamber, the inlet end of the sixth peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet end of the second reaction solution chamber, and the outlet ends of the fifth and sixth peristaltic pumps are respectively connected to the inlet end of the second mixing chamber; the inlet end of the seventh peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet end of the second mixing chamber, and the outlet end of the seventh peristaltic pump is respectively connected to the inlet ends of several third reaction units.

[0027] Optionally, the second reaction unit includes a second solenoid valve and a second sample reaction chamber; the inlet of the second solenoid valve is connected to the outlet of the first reaction liquid chamber and the second buffer chamber respectively, and the outlet of the second solenoid valve is connected to the inlet of the second sample reaction chamber; a second reaction sample is pre-placed in the second sample reaction chamber.

[0028] The third reaction unit includes a third solenoid valve and a third sample reaction chamber; the inlet end of the third solenoid valve is connected to the outlet end of the seventh peristaltic pump, and the outlet end of the third solenoid valve is connected to the inlet end of the third sample reaction chamber; a third reaction sample is pre-placed in the third sample reaction chamber.

[0029] The input terminals of the second and third solenoid valves are electrically connected to the output terminals of the control module, respectively.

[0030] Optionally, the observation module includes a motion-bearing component, a microscopic imaging component, and a light source component;

[0031] The microscopic imaging component is mounted on the motion component, and the motion component drives the microscopic imaging component to perform linear reciprocating motion in order to achieve observation of different areas within the chip cartridge.

[0032] The microscopic imaging assembly includes an objective lens, a reflector, a microscope tube, and a camera; the objective lens is located below the chip cartridge; the top of the reflector has a perforation, and the side of the reflector has a laser inlet; the objective lens is located directly above the perforation, one end of the microscope tube is sealed to the reflector, and the other end of the microscope tube is sealed to the camera lens, for capturing microscopic images inside the chip cartridge;

[0033] The light source assembly includes an excitation light source unit, a catalytic light source unit, and a laser switching unit;

[0034] The excitation light source unit is located at the laser entrance of the reflector to generate excitation light of at least two wavelengths; the laser switching unit is connected to the excitation light source unit to switch between different wavelengths of excitation light; the catalytic light source unit is arranged around the objective lens to generate catalytic light of at least two wavelengths.

[0035] Optionally, the control module includes an integrated circuit board disposed within the device body, and the integrated circuit board is provided with at least two positioning pins; the outer shell of the card box is provided with at least two guide holes corresponding to the positions of the positioning pins, and the positioning pins are inserted into the corresponding guide holes to fix the chip card box;

[0036] The card holder shell is provided with a control interface. The input end of the control interface is electrically connected to the output end of the integrated circuit board, and the output end of the control interface is electrically connected to the input end of the chip assembly.

[0037] The device body is equipped with a communication interface and a power supply interface; the communication interface is electrically connected to the control module to enable data interaction with external devices; the power supply interface is electrically connected to the control module to provide power and information exchange.

[0038] The beneficial effects of the embodiments provided by the present invention include:

[0039] This invention enables different killing detection and research on different microorganisms by setting chip components with different structures, which can meet the killing performance testing needs of various microbial samples and improve the applicability and flexibility of the device.

[0040] This invention achieves programmed control and time-sequential fluorescence imaging of the liquid path within the chip cartridge by controlling the multi-channel pump valve structure and observation module within the integrated circuit board. This ensures a complete closed loop in the experiment, reduces manual intervention, and effectively improves experimental efficiency and the scientific objectivity of the observation results. At the same time, by setting the number of pump valves within the chip cartridge and controlling the working time and opening / closing sequence of the pump valves, it is possible to achieve differentiated culture and detection of different microorganisms.

[0041] This invention enables real-time observation and imaging of microbial growth and killing effects through an observation module, and transmits microbial images to the ground via a communication interface, providing real-time data for analyzing the experimental effects of the device and the microbial growth process. Attached Figure Description

[0042] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0043] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of one side of a microbial microscopic observation device according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0044] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of another side of the microbial microscopic observation device according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0045] Figure 3 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of a microbial microscopic observation device according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0046] Figure 4 A top view of a microbial microscopic observation apparatus according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0047] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of a chip card cartridge according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0048] Figure 6 A top view of a chip card cartridge according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0049] Figure 7A schematic diagram of the structure of a first chip assembly according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0050] Figure 8 A perspective view of the observation module according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0051] Figure 9 A side view of the observation module according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0052] Figure 10 A top view of the observation module according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0053] Figure 11 A flowchart illustrating the detection process of a first chip assembly according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0054] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a second chip assembly according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0055] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of another structure of a second chip assembly according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0056] Figure 14 A flowchart illustrating the detection process of a second chip assembly according to an embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0057] Wherein, 10 is the device body; 101 is the power supply interface; 102 is the communication interface; 103 is the chip insertion port; 20 is the chip card holder assembly; 201 is the housing; 202 is the cover; 203 is the captive screw; 204 is the control interface; 205 is the handle; 206 is the first peristaltic pump; 207 is the second peristaltic pump; 208 is the diaphragm pump; 209 is the first solenoid valve; 210 is the first sample reaction chamber; 211 is the first control valve; 212 is the second control valve; 213 is the third peristaltic pump; 214 is the fourth peristaltic pump; 215 is the fifth peristaltic pump; 216 is the sixth peristaltic pump; 217 is the seventh peristaltic pump; 218 is the second mixing chamber; 219 is the second sample reaction chamber; 220 is the third sample reaction chamber; 221 is the second solenoid valve. ; 222 is the third solenoid valve; 223 is the third control valve; 30 is the observation module; 301 is the motion support guide rail; 302 is the drive motor; 303 is the sliding platform; 304 is the objective lens; 305 is the reflector; 306 is the microscope tube; 307 is the camera; 308 is the objective lens focusing unit; 309 is the excitation light source unit; 310 is the catalytic light source unit; 311 is the linear motor; 312 is the lead screw; 40 is the integrated circuit board; 401 is the electrical connector; 402 is the positioning pin. Detailed Implementation

[0058] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with specific embodiments and the accompanying drawings.

[0059] However, it should be understood that these descriptions are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of this disclosure for ease of explanation. However, it will be apparent that one or more embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known technologies are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concepts of this disclosure.

[0060] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. The term "comprising" as used herein indicates the presence of features, steps, or operations, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features. It should be noted that all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. It should be understood that the terms used herein should be interpreted in a manner consistent with the context of this specification and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly rigid manner.

[0061] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0062] Example 1

[0063] like Figures 1-10 As shown, this embodiment provides an on-orbit microbial microscopic detection device, including a device body 10, a chip cartridge 20, an observation module 30, and a control module;

[0064] For example, the chip cartridge 20 is inserted into the device body 10 for microbial killing detection; the observation module 30 is located in the device body 10 for observing the growth status and killing effect of microorganisms in the chip cartridge 20; the control module is located in the device body 10 and is electrically connected to the chip cartridge 20 and the observation module 30 respectively for controlling the chip cartridge 20 and the observation module 30.

[0065] The chip cartridge 20 includes a cartridge shell and a chip assembly disposed within the cartridge shell; the chip cartridge 20 can adapt to the cultivation and killing detection needs of different microorganisms by setting chip assemblies with different structures.

[0066] In this embodiment, the chip assembly is a first chip assembly. The first chip assembly performs physical bactericidal performance experiments by setting different pump valve structures, multiple chambers, and pre-setting antibacterial samples with different biomimetic nanostructures, so as to detect the physical bactericidal performance of antibacterial samples with different nanostructures.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first chip assembly includes a first nutrient solution chamber, a first buffer chamber, a first mixing chamber, a first control unit, a first control valve 211, a second control valve 212, and eight first reaction units; wherein the first control unit includes a first peristaltic pump 206, a second peristaltic pump 207, and a diaphragm pump 208.

[0068] Specifically, the outlet of the first nutrient solution chamber is connected to the inlet of the first mixing chamber via the first peristaltic pump 206; the outlet of the first buffer solution chamber is connected to the inlet of the first mixing chamber via the second peristaltic pump 207; the outlet of the first mixing chamber is connected to the inlet of the first control valve 211 via the diaphragm pump 208; the outlet of the first control valve 211 is connected to the inlet of each of the eight first reaction units; the outlets of the eight first reaction chambers are all connected to the inlet of the second control valve 212; the inputs of the first control valve 211, the second control valve 212, the first peristaltic pump 206, the second peristaltic pump 207, and the diaphragm pump 208 are all electrically connected to the output of the control module.

[0069] In this embodiment, the first buffer chamber contains phosphate buffer (PBS buffer), and the first mixing chamber is pre-filled with freeze-dried Escherichia coli bulbs; both the first control valve 211 and the second control valve 212 are multi-chamber solenoid valves, used to simultaneously control the fluid flow in multiple chambers; the diaphragm pump 208 is a pneumatic diaphragm pump 208, used to provide high flow rate and realize the impact of the liquid in the first mixing chamber on the antibacterial sample.

[0070] In some embodiments, the first reaction unit includes a first solenoid valve 209 and a first sample reaction chamber 210;

[0071] Specifically, the inlet end of the first solenoid valve 209 is connected to the outlet end of the first control valve 211, the outlet end of the first solenoid valve 209 is connected to the inlet end of the first sample reaction chamber 210, and the outlet end of the first sample reaction chamber 210 is connected to the inlet end of the second control valve 212; the input end of the first solenoid valve 209 is electrically connected to the output end of the control module.

[0072] In this embodiment, the first chip assembly includes eight first sample reaction chambers 210A1-A8 and eight corresponding first solenoid valves 209. The first solenoid valves 209 independently control the liquid flow and liquid flow of the corresponding first sample reaction chamber 210. The eight first sample reaction chambers 210 are each pre-filled with antibacterial samples with different biomimetic nanostructures. Each of the eight first sample reaction chambers 210 has a waste liquid outlet at its bottom.

[0073] In some embodiments, the chip cartridge 20 further includes a waste liquid cartridge and a plurality of double self-locking quick connectors;

[0074] Specifically, the waste liquid cartridge includes a waste liquid box body and several waste liquid bags disposed inside the waste liquid box body; several waste liquid inlets are opened at the top of the cartridge shell, and the waste liquid inlets are connected to the corresponding waste liquid bags;

[0075] The double self-locking quick connector includes a first connector and a second connector. Both connectors are self-locking quick connectors and are interconnected. The first connector is fixedly located at the liquid outlet of the second control valve 212, and the other end is inserted into or removed from the waste liquid cartridge through the waste liquid inlet to discharge the waste liquid in the first sample reaction chamber 210 into the waste liquid bag.

[0076] The inlet end of the first connector is connected to the outlet end of the second control valve 212, the outlet end of the first connector is connected to the inlet end of the second connector, and the outlet end of the second connector is connected to the inlet end of the waste liquid bag through the waste liquid inlet.

[0077] In this embodiment, after the self-locking connector exits the waste liquid cartridge through the waste liquid inlet, both self-locking connectors form a sealed structure to prevent leakage. Specifically, the outlet end of the second connector is wrapped with an absorbent sponge; the absorbent sponge is used to wipe the outlet end of the second connector and absorb any possible liquid droplets.

[0078] For example, the observation module 30 includes a motion-bearing component, a microscopic imaging component, and a light source component;

[0079] In some embodiments, the motion bearing component includes a motion support guide rail 301, a drive motor 302, and a sliding platform 303;

[0080] Specifically, the sliding platform 303 is slidably mounted on the motion support rail 301, and the microscopic imaging component is fixedly mounted on the sliding platform 303; the drive motor 302 is located at one end of the motion support rail 301, and is used to drive the sliding platform 303 to drive the microscopic imaging component to perform linear reciprocating motion, so as to realize the observation of different areas within the chip cartridge 20.

[0081] In some embodiments, the microscopic imaging assembly includes an objective lens 304, a reflector 305, a microscope tube 306, a camera 307, and an objective lens focusing unit 308;

[0082] Specifically, the reflector 305 includes a reflector and a housing. The bottom of the housing has a perforation, and the side of the housing has a laser inlet. The optical mirror is installed inside the housing. The objective lens 304 is located below the chip card holder 20. The perforation is located directly below the objective lens 304. The objective lens focusing unit 308 is used to adjust the distance between the objective lens 304 and the chip card holder 20.

[0083] One end of the microscope tube 306 is sealed to the outer casing, and the other end of the microscope tube 306 is sealed to the lens of the camera 307. The optical axis of the lens of the camera 307 and the optical axis of the microscope tube 306 are on the same straight line. The optical axis of the microscope tube 306 is refracted by the reflector and bent at 90° and is on the same straight line as the optical axis of the objective lens 304, so as to capture microscopic images inside the chip card cartridge 20.

[0084] In some embodiments, the light source assembly includes an excitation light source unit 309, a catalytic light source unit 310, and a laser switching unit;

[0085] Specifically, the excitation light source unit 309 includes at least two different wavelengths of excitation light sources. The excitation light sources are located at the laser entrance of the reflector 305 to excite the substances in the chip cartridge 20 to emit fluorescence, thereby enabling fluorescence microscopic observation of microorganisms. The laser switching unit includes a linear motor 311 and a lead screw 312. One end of the lead screw 312 is connected to the linear motor 311, and the other end is connected to at least two excitation light sources. The linear motor 311 drives the excitation light sources to move, thereby switching between different excitation lights. The catalytic light source unit 310 includes at least two different wavelengths of catalytic light sources, which are arranged around the objective lens 304 to generate catalytic light to catalyze the reaction process of microorganisms in the chip cartridge 20, thereby completing the catalytic reaction of various microorganisms.

[0086] Among them, the drive motor 302, camera 307, objective lens 304 focusing unit, excitation light source unit 309, catalytic light source unit 310 and laser switching unit are all electrically connected to the control module.

[0087] In this embodiment, the microscopic imaging component can take pictures of the reaction chambers in the chip cartridge 20 one by one, or take pictures of a specific reaction chamber as needed for the experiment; the laser switching unit can autonomously switch the fluorescence excitation source as needed for the experiment.

[0088] In some embodiments, the control module includes an integrated circuit board 40; the integrated circuit board 40 is disposed inside the device body 10, and the integrated circuit board 40 is provided with at least two positioning pins 402; the card box shell is provided with at least two guide holes corresponding to the positions of the positioning pin holes, and the positioning pins 402 are inserted into the corresponding guide holes to fix the chip card box 20.

[0089] The integrated circuit board has at least two positioning pins; the outer shell of the card box has at least two guide holes corresponding to the positions of the positioning pins, and the positioning pins are inserted into the corresponding guide holes to fix the chip card box.

[0090] In some embodiments, a control interface 204 is provided on the card box housing, and an electrical connector 401 is provided on the integrated circuit board 40. The electrical connector 401 is plugged into the control interface 204 to control several pump and valve structures within the chip assembly.

[0091] In some embodiments, the outer shell of the card box is a hollow rectangular cube, consisting of a box body 201 and a cover body 202. The cover body 202 also includes a groove provided on the top wall of the cover body 202. The groove is used to place a sealing ring so that when the box body 201 and the cover body 202 are closed, the opening of the box body 201 contacts the sealing ring, which plays a role in fixing and sealing the environment.

[0092] In this embodiment, the top of the device body 10 is provided with a chip insertion port 103 for inserting the chip card holder 20; the device body 10 also includes a protective cover to cover the chip insertion port 103 to prevent dust, liquid or other contaminants from entering the chip insertion port 103, thereby protecting the cleanliness and safety of the chip card holder.

[0093] To ensure the stability of the chip card holder 20, the device body 10 and the chip card holder 20 are locked together by at least two captive screws 203. During operation, the chip card holder 20 can be quickly inserted and removed by manually unscrewing the captive screws 203. The chip card holder 20 is provided with a handle 205 for easy insertion and removal.

[0094] In some embodiments, the device body 10 is provided with a communication interface 102 and a power supply interface 101; the communication interface 102 is electrically connected to the control module to enable data interaction with external devices; the power supply interface 101 is electrically connected to the control module to provide power.

[0095] In some embodiments, the liquid circuits in the chip cartridge 20 are all connected by flexible tubing, which is made of PE, is non-toxic and odorless, has a melting point of 100~130℃, excellent low-temperature resistance, can still maintain good mechanical properties at -60℃, is insoluble in any known solvent at room temperature, and does not produce biological toxicity.

[0096] like Figure 11As shown, this embodiment includes a physical sterilization experiment. The physical sterilization experiment involves: first, pumping the nutrient solution from the nutrient solution chamber into the first mixing chamber to fully mix the nutrient solution with the freeze-dried E. coli culture pellets; incubating the bacteria in the first mixing chamber at room temperature; after incubation, pumping the PBS buffer from the buffer chamber into the first mixing chamber and mixing thoroughly to prepare a bacterial suspension with a standard concentration of 5×10³~5×10⁴ CFU / mL; injecting 0.1 mL of the bacterial suspension into eight first sample reaction chambers 210A1-A8 respectively; using a peristaltic pump providing a high flow rate, the bacterial suspension collides with the surfaces of eight different biomimetic nano-antibacterial samples and remains in contact for 10 min to perform physical sterilization; after sterilization, eluting the surface bacteria with 0.5 mL of PBS buffer; collecting the eluted waste liquid through a waste liquid cartridge and storing it at 4°C; after cryopreservation, it descends with the spacecraft for further experiments on the ground.

[0097] It should be noted that the microbial microscopic detection device provided in this embodiment allows users to design different chambers, pump valve structures, and preset various samples according to the different microbial inactivation experimental requirements, in order to construct different chip components within the chip cartridge 20. The different chip components are controlled by the control module, and microscopic and fluorescence observations are performed using the observation module 30.

[0098] Example 2

[0099] like Figures 12-13 As shown, this embodiment provides an on-orbit microbial microscopic detection device, which differs from Embodiment 1 in that the chip component is a second chip component;

[0100] In this embodiment, the second chip assembly performs photodynamic-physical coupling bactericidal performance experiments by setting different pump valve structures, multiple chambers, different probe solutions, and antibacterial samples with different preset nanostructures, in order to detect the bactericidal performance of antibacterial samples sprayed with different probe solutions under different light conditions.

[0101] For example, the second chip assembly includes a first reaction liquid chamber, a second reaction liquid chamber, a second nutrient liquid chamber, a second buffer solution chamber, a second mixing chamber 218, a third control valve, three second reaction units, three third reaction units, and six waste liquid chambers.

[0102] Specifically, the second control unit includes a third peristaltic pump 213, a fourth peristaltic pump 214, a fifth peristaltic pump 215, a sixth peristaltic pump 216, and a seventh peristaltic pump 217; the input terminals of the third peristaltic pump 213, the fourth peristaltic pump 214, the fifth peristaltic pump 215, the sixth peristaltic pump 216, and the seventh peristaltic pump 217 are electrically connected to the output terminals of the control module.

[0103] In this embodiment, the second buffer chamber contains phosphate buffer (PBS buffer), and the second mixing chamber is pre-filled with freeze-dried Escherichia coli bulbs;

[0104] In some embodiments, the outlet of the first reaction chamber is connected to the inlet of three second reaction units via a third peristaltic pump 213; the outlet of the second buffer chamber is connected to the inlet of three second reaction units via a fourth peristaltic pump 214.

[0105] Specifically, the second reaction unit includes a second solenoid valve 221 and a second sample reaction chamber 219; the inlet end of the second solenoid valve 221 is connected to the outlet end of the first reaction liquid chamber and the second buffer chamber respectively, and the outlet end of the second solenoid valve 221 is connected to the inlet end of the second sample reaction chamber 219; wherein, the input ends of the three second solenoid valves 221 are all electrically connected to the output end of the control module.

[0106] In this embodiment, the second chip assembly includes three second sample reaction chambers 219B1-B3 and three corresponding second solenoid valves 221, and the liquid flow and liquid flow rate of the corresponding second sample reaction chamber 219 are independently controlled by the second solenoid valves 221; each of the second sample reaction chambers 219B1, B2 and B3 is pre-filled with a biomimetic nano-antibacterial sample that retains bacterial remains after sterilization; wherein, the first reaction liquid chamber contains an AIE probe 2 solution, which is a short-wavelength fluorescent probe that can only enter dead bacteria.

[0107] In some embodiments, the outlet of the second buffer chamber is connected to the inlet of the second mixing chamber 218 via a fourth peristaltic pump 214; the outlet of the second nutrient solution chamber is connected to the inlet of the second mixing chamber 218 via a fifth peristaltic pump 215; the outlet of the second reaction solution chamber is connected to the inlet of the second mixing chamber 218 via a sixth peristaltic pump 216; and the outlet of the second mixing chamber 218 is connected to the inlets of the three third reaction units via a seventh peristaltic pump 217.

[0108] Specifically, the third reaction unit includes a third solenoid valve 222 and a third sample reaction chamber 220; the inlet end of the third solenoid valve 222 is connected to the outlet end of the seventh peristaltic pump 217, and the outlet end of the third solenoid valve 222 is connected to the inlet end of the third sample reaction chamber 220; wherein, the input ends of the three third solenoid valves 222 are all electrically connected to the output end of the control module.

[0109] In this embodiment, the second chip assembly includes three third sample reaction chambers 220B4-B6 and three corresponding third solenoid valves 222, and the liquid flow and liquid flow of the corresponding third sample reaction chamber 220 are independently controlled by the third solenoid valves 222; the third sample reaction chambers 220B4, B5 and B6 are all pre-filled with biomimetic nano antibacterial samples, and the third sample reaction chamber 220B5 is pre-filled with AIE photosensitizer powder; wherein, the first reaction liquid chamber stores two AIE probes with different functions to form an AIE probe 1 solution, the AIE probe 1 solution including a long-wavelength fluorescent probe that can enter both live and dead bacteria and a short-wavelength fluorescent probe that can only enter dead bacteria.

[0110] like Figure 14 As shown, this embodiment includes two sets of sterilization test experiments: self-cleaning sterilization test experiment and comprehensive sterilization test experiment;

[0111] Self-cleaning detection experiment: First, visible light was applied to the reaction chambers 219B2 and B3 of the second sample. Then, the AIE probe 2 solution was injected into the reaction chambers 219B1-B3 of the second sample for incubation. After a period of time, fluorescence imaging was performed to determine the mortality rate of E. coli. Then, PBS buffer was used to wash off the surface bacteria, and the eluted waste liquid was stored through the waste liquid chamber.

[0112] Comprehensive sterilization test: First, the nutrient solution in the nutrient solution chamber is pumped into the second mixing chamber 218 to thoroughly mix the nutrient solution with the freeze-dried E. coli bulbs. The bacteria in the second mixing chamber 218 are then incubated at room temperature. After incubation, the PBS buffer from the buffer chamber is pumped into the second mixing chamber 218 via the second peristaltic pump 207, and thoroughly mixed to prepare a standard concentration of 5×10³~5×10⁴. A bacterial suspension of CFU / mL was incubated with AIE probe 1 solution pumped into the second mixing chamber 218 (microbial activity could be assessed by observing long-wavelength fluorescence in the second mixing chamber 218, and bacterial death could be confirmed by observing short-wavelength fluorescence). The incubated solution was then injected into the third sample reaction chambers 220B4, B5, and B6, respectively. Visible light was applied to the second sample reaction chambers 219B4 and B5, and photodynamic-physical coupled sterilization, chemical sterilization, and physical sterilization tests were performed on the third sample reaction chambers 220B4, B5, and B6, respectively. After the reactions in the third sample reaction chambers 220B4, B5, and B6 were completed, fluorescence imaging was performed to determine the survival rate of *E. coli*. Finally, the surface bacteria were eluted with PBS buffer, and the eluted waste liquid was stored through the waste liquid chamber. The chemical substance used in the chemical sterilization test was pre-prepared AIE photosensitizer powder.

[0113] In each embodiment, when conducting the corresponding experiments, the astronaut first inserts the corresponding chip cartridge 20 into the device body 10. The device receives telemetry signals from the air-to-ground command, triggering the integrated circuit board 40 to operate. The integrated circuit board 40 issues commands to control the operation of different pumps and valves inside the chip cartridge 20. Through the timing control of the pumps and valves, the solution inside the chip cartridge 20 is pumped into each chamber to begin on-orbit cultivation of microorganisms. After a period of cultivation, the integrated circuit board 40 activates the observation module 30, autonomously turns on the corresponding excitation light source, and starts the camera 307. The moving support component drives the microscopic imaging component to move, observing the changes in microbial growth in the mixing chamber at the bottom of the chip cartridge from bottom to top, and taking pictures for storage. After the shooting is completed, the excitation light source is turned off, and the corresponding catalytic light source is autonomously selected and turned on to catalyze the microorganisms in each reaction chamber, accelerating the shedding of microorganisms to accelerate the self-cleaning of the reaction pool. After the experiment is completed, the image data of the experimental process is transmitted to the ground through the communication interface 102 for analysis and evaluation by ground researchers.

[0114] In summary, this embodiment, by setting chip components with different structures, enables different killing detection and research on different microorganisms, which can adapt to the killing performance testing needs of various microbial samples and improve the applicability and flexibility of the device;

[0115] The chip cartridge 20 installation method in this embodiment is compatible with the culture and analysis of various microorganisms. As long as the cartridge positioning method and electrical signal connection type are the same, this device can be used for culture observation, thus enhancing the versatility of the device.

[0116] This embodiment uses the integrated circuit board 40 to control the multi-channel pump valve structure and observation module 30 within the chip cartridge 20, thereby achieving programmed control and time-series fluorescence imaging of the liquid path within the chip cartridge 20. This ensures a complete closed loop in the experiment, reduces manual intervention, and effectively improves the efficiency of the experiment and the scientific objectivity of the observation results.

[0117] This embodiment enables differentiated culture and sterilization observation of different bacteria and microorganisms by setting the number of pumps and valves within the chip cartridge 20 and controlling their operating time and on / off sequence. This embodiment is not only applicable to observing the growth and culture of microorganisms in orbit, but can also be used for microbial culture observation for other ground-based functional requirements, providing a self-operating and rapid-results method for monitoring the growth of various microbial communities in microbial culture experiments.

[0118] In this embodiment, the observation module 30 can observe and photograph the growth status of microorganisms in real time, and transmit the microbial images to the ground through the communication interface 102, providing real-time data for analyzing the experimental effect of the device and the microbial growth process.

[0119] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the details of the above exemplary embodiments, and that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the invention. Therefore, the embodiments should be considered exemplary and non-limiting in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description, and thus all variations falling within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the claims are intended to be included within the present invention.

Claims

1. An on-orbit microscopic detection device for microorganisms, characterized in that, include: device body; A chip cartridge is inserted into the device body for microbial killing detection; An observation module, located within the device itself, is used to observe the growth of microorganisms and their killing effect within the chip cartridge. The control module, located within the device body, is electrically connected to both the chip cartridge and the observation module, and is used to control the chip cartridge and the observation module. The chip cartridge includes a cartridge housing and a chip assembly disposed within the cartridge housing; The chip assembly includes a first reaction liquid chamber, a second reaction liquid chamber, a second nutrient liquid chamber, a second buffer solution chamber, a second mixing chamber, a plurality of second reaction units, and a plurality of third reaction units; The outlets of the first reaction chamber and the second buffer chamber are respectively connected to the inlet ends of several second reaction units; the outlets of the second nutrient solution chamber and the second buffer chamber are respectively connected to the inlet ends of the second mixing chamber; the outlet end of the second reaction chamber is connected to the inlet end of the second mixing chamber, and the outlet end of the second mixing chamber is respectively connected to the inlet ends of several third reaction units; the second mixing chamber is pre-filled with freeze-dried microbial bulbs; The chip assembly also includes a second control unit; The input terminal of the second control unit is electrically connected to the output terminal of the control module; the second control unit includes a third peristaltic pump, a fourth peristaltic pump, a fifth peristaltic pump, a sixth peristaltic pump, and a seventh peristaltic pump; The inlet end of the third peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet end of the first reaction chamber, and the outlet end of the third peristaltic pump is connected to the inlet ends of several second reaction units respectively; the inlet end of the fourth peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet end of the second buffer chamber, and the outlet end of the fourth peristaltic pump is connected to the inlet ends of the second mixing chamber and several second reaction units respectively. The inlet end of the fifth peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet end of the second nutrient solution chamber, the inlet end of the sixth peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet end of the second reaction solution chamber, and the outlet ends of the fifth and sixth peristaltic pumps are respectively connected to the inlet end of the second mixing chamber; the inlet end of the seventh peristaltic pump is connected to the outlet end of the second mixing chamber, and the outlet end of the seventh peristaltic pump is respectively connected to the inlet ends of several third reaction units; Each of the second reaction units includes a second solenoid valve and a second sample reaction chamber; the inlet of each of the second solenoid valves is connected to the outlet of the first reaction chamber and the second buffer chamber, respectively, and the outlet of each of the second solenoid valves is connected to the inlet of the second sample reaction chamber; each of the second sample reaction chambers is pre-filled with a biomimetic nano-antibacterial sample that retains bacterial remains after sterilization; the first reaction chamber contains an AIE probe 2 solution, which is a short-wavelength fluorescent probe that can only enter dead bacteria; Each of the third reaction units includes a third solenoid valve and a third sample reaction chamber; the inlet end of each of the third solenoid valves is connected to the outlet end of the seventh peristaltic pump, and the outlet end of each of the third solenoid valves is connected to the inlet end of the third sample reaction chamber; each of the third sample reaction chambers is pre-filled with a biomimetic nano antibacterial sample, and one of the third sample reaction chambers is pre-filled with AIE photosensitizer powder; the second reaction chamber contains two AIE probes with different functions that together form an AIE probe 1 solution, which includes a long-wavelength fluorescent probe that can enter both live and dead bacteria and a short-wavelength fluorescent probe that can only enter dead bacteria; The input terminals of the second and third solenoid valves are both electrically connected to the output terminal of the control module.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The observation module includes a motion-bearing component, a microscopic imaging component, and a light source component; The microscopic imaging component is mounted on the motion component, and the motion component drives the microscopic imaging component to perform linear reciprocating motion in order to achieve observation of different areas within the chip cartridge. The microscopic imaging assembly includes an objective lens, a reflector, a microscope tube, and a camera; the objective lens is located below the chip cartridge; the top of the reflector has a perforation, and the side of the reflector has a laser inlet; the objective lens is located directly above the perforation, one end of the microscope tube is sealed to the reflector, and the other end of the microscope tube is sealed to the camera lens, for capturing microscopic images inside the chip cartridge; The light source assembly includes an excitation light source unit, a catalytic light source unit, and a laser switching unit; The excitation light source unit is located at the laser entrance of the reflector to generate excitation light of at least two wavelengths; the laser switching unit is connected to the excitation light source unit to switch between different wavelengths of excitation light; the catalytic light source unit is arranged around the objective lens to generate catalytic light of at least two wavelengths.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control module includes an integrated circuit board, which is disposed within the device body. The integrated circuit board is provided with at least two positioning pins. The outer shell of the card box is provided with at least two guide holes corresponding to the positions of the positioning pins. The positioning pins are inserted into the corresponding guide holes to fix the chip card box. The card holder shell is provided with a control interface. The input end of the control interface is electrically connected to the output end of the integrated circuit board, and the output end of the control interface is electrically connected to the input end of the chip assembly. The device body is equipped with a communication interface and a power supply interface; the communication interface is electrically connected to the control module to enable data interaction with external devices; the power supply interface is electrically connected to the control module to provide power and information exchange.

Images