Method of leak detection and fluid system

Abstract

An airtightness detection method and a fluid system. The method comprises: providing the fluid system, which comprises a pipeline consumable having a working pipeline, and a power element, a first pressure sensor and a second pressure sensor, which are all installed on the working pipeline, and the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor are located on a first side and a second side of the power element respectively; starting the power element, so that the gas in the working pipeline flows in the direction from the first side to the second side; stopping the power element, and within a first time period after stopping the power element, measuring a first actual pressure value in the working pipeline on the first side by the first pressure sensor, and measuring a second actual pressure value in the working pipeline on the second side by the second pressure sensor; and combining the first actual pressure value and the second actual pressure value to initially judge the airtightness of the pipeline consumable. The application can automatically detect whether the airtightness of the pipeline consumable is qualified through the cooperation of the power element, the valve assembly and the pressure sensors.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of airtightness testing, and more particularly to an airtightness testing method and a fluid system. Background Technology

[0002] Air tightness testing is primarily used to inspect the sealing and airtightness of piping systems in various industrial products, components, or systems. These products, components, or systems may include automotive parts, medical devices, and home appliances. Air tightness testing can prevent problems such as leaks, contamination, and energy waste, and is crucial for ensuring product quality and safety.

[0003] For example, the liquid path system of a cell sorting device is essential to ensuring a sterile environment during cell processing. This system comprises multiple tubing channels through which the liquid from the bags used in cell sorting flows to the required outlets. Each outlet is controlled by a valve, and the tubing formed by these valves constitutes the liquid path system. If a leak occurs in the liquid path system, the required complete enclosure and sterility during cell processing cannot be guaranteed, affecting the cell sorting results. Furthermore, leaks in the liquid path system can contaminate the equipment and the laboratory environment, posing fire hazards and risks of biochemical contamination. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the above shortcomings, it is necessary to provide an airtightness testing method and a fluid system that applies the above testing method.

[0005] This application provides a method for airtightness testing of a fluid system. The method includes: providing the fluid system, which includes piping consumables, a power component, a first pressure sensor, and a second pressure sensor; the piping consumables include a working pipe; the power component, the first pressure sensor, and the second pressure sensor are mounted on the working pipe, with the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor located on a first side and a second side of the power component, respectively; turning on the power component to allow gas in the working pipe to flow from the first side to the second side; turning off the power component; and within a first time period after turning off the power component, measuring a first actual pressure value in the working pipe located on the first side using the first pressure sensor, and measuring a second actual pressure value in the working pipe located on the second side using the second pressure sensor; and initially determining the airtightness of the piping consumables by combining the first actual pressure value and the second actual pressure value.

[0006] In some possible implementations, the airtightness detection method further includes: restarting the power unit to allow gas in the working pipeline to flow from the second side to the first side; turning off the power unit, and within a first time period after turning off the power unit, measuring a third actual pressure value in the working pipeline located on the first side using the first pressure sensor, and measuring a fourth actual pressure value in the working pipeline located on the second side using the second pressure sensor; and determining the airtightness of the pipeline consumable by combining the third actual pressure value and the fourth actual pressure value.

[0007] In some possible implementations, before activating the power unit, the airtightness detection method further includes: measuring a first empty pipe pressure value in the working pipe located on the first side using the first pressure sensor, and measuring a second empty pipe pressure value in the working pipe located on the second side using the second pressure sensor; during a first time period after the power unit is deactivated, measuring a first measured pressure value in the working pipe located on the first side using the first pressure sensor, and measuring a second measured pressure value in the working pipe located on the second side using the second pressure sensor; calculating a first actual pressure value based on the difference between the first measured pressure value and the first empty pipe pressure value, and calculating a second actual pressure value based on the difference between the second measured pressure value and the second empty pipe pressure value.

[0008] In some possible implementations, the first measured pressure value is a plurality of first measured pressure values ​​continuously measured within a first time period after the power component is turned off; the second measured pressure value is a plurality of second measured pressure values ​​continuously measured within the first time period after the power component is turned off; the first actual pressure value is the difference between each first measured pressure value and the first empty pipe pressure value; and the second actual pressure value is the difference between each second measured pressure value and the second empty pipe pressure value. When the first actual pressure value and the second actual pressure value meet predetermined conditions, the airtightness of the pipeline consumable is initially determined to be qualified. The predetermined conditions include: each first actual pressure value is less than the first empty pipe pressure value; each second actual pressure value is greater than the second empty pipe pressure value; the range of the absolute values ​​of the plurality of first actual pressure values ​​does not exceed 10% of the maximum value among the absolute values ​​of the plurality of first actual pressure values; and the range of the absolute values ​​of the plurality of second actual pressure values ​​does not exceed 10% of the maximum value among the absolute values ​​of the plurality of second actual pressure values.

[0009] In some possible implementations, after the power component is turned off, the airtightness detection method further includes: during a second time period following the first time period, continuously measuring multiple third measured pressure values ​​in the working pipeline on the first side using the first pressure sensor, and continuously measuring multiple fourth measured pressure values ​​in the working pipeline on the second side using the second pressure sensor; calculating the average of the multiple first actual pressure values ​​and the average of the multiple second actual pressure values. The predetermined conditions further include: the variation range of the multiple third measured pressure values ​​does not exceed 10% of the average of the first actual pressure values, and the variation range of the multiple fourth measured pressure values ​​does not exceed 10% of the average of the second actual pressure values.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the fluid system further includes a valve assembly for mounting on the piping consumables, the valve assembly including a plurality of on / off valves. The airtightness detection method further includes: selectively opening the on / off valve located on the first side, connecting the piping consumables connected to the first side to the first side; selectively opening the on / off valve located on the second side, connecting the piping consumables connected to the second side to the second side, and disconnecting the piping consumables connected to the first side from the piping consumables connected to the second side.

[0011] A second aspect of this application provides a fluid system including consumable tubing, the consumable tubing including a working tubing. The fluid system further includes a power unit, a first pressure sensor, a second pressure sensor, and a processor. The power unit, the first pressure sensor, and the second pressure sensor are mounted on the working tubing, with the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor located on a first side and a second side of the power unit, respectively. The processor is configured to: turn on the power unit, causing gas in the working tubing to flow from the first side to the second side; turn off the power unit; and, within a first time period after turning off the power unit, acquire a first actual pressure value measured by the first pressure sensor in the working tubing located on the first side, and acquire a second actual pressure value measured by the second pressure sensor in the working tubing located on the second side; and, based on the first actual pressure value and the second actual pressure value, initially determine the airtightness of the consumable tubing.

[0012] In some possible implementations, the processor is further configured to: restart the power unit, causing the gas in the working pipeline to flow in a direction from the second side to the first side; shut down the power unit, and within a first time period after shutting down the power unit, acquire a third actual pressure value measured by the first pressure sensor in the working pipeline located on the first side, and acquire a fourth actual pressure value measured by the second pressure sensor in the working pipeline located on the second side; and combine the third actual pressure value and the fourth actual pressure value to make a second determination of the airtightness of the pipeline consumables.

[0013] In some possible implementations, the fluid system further includes a valve assembly for mounting on the piping consumables, the valve assembly including a plurality of on / off valves. The processor is further configured to: selectively open the on / off valve located on the first side, connecting the piping consumables connected to the first side to the first side; selectively open the on / off valve located on the second side, connecting the piping consumables connected to the second side to the second side, and disconnecting the piping consumables connected to the first side from the piping consumables connected to the second side.

[0014] In some possible implementations, the fluid system further includes a display for showing installation information of the valve assembly, the first pressure sensor, and the second pressure sensor.

[0015] This application, through the cooperation of a power component, valve assembly, first pressure sensor, and second pressure sensor, can automatically detect whether the airtightness of pipeline consumables is up to standard, preventing leaks and avoiding sample contamination of the instrument and environment. Furthermore, this application does not require the introduction of mechanical structures within the pipeline consumables for airtightness testing, thus ensuring the airtightness and sterility of the consumables. This application also does not require the injection of additional liquid for airtightness testing; instead, it directly drives the gas flow within the pipeline consumables to change the pressure in the working pipeline, and combines the pressure value to determine the airtightness of the pipeline consumables. Because gas is more compressible than liquid, the pressure change range caused by gas flow within the pipeline consumables is larger, thereby improving detection accuracy. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cell sorting system provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0017] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the cell sorting system after the valve assembly, power unit, first pressure sensor, and second pressure sensor are installed.

[0018] Figure 3 For some embodiments used Figure 1 The flowchart shows the airtightness detection method for the cell sorting system.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of an airtightness testing method in some other embodiments.

[0020] The following detailed description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, will further illustrate this application. Detailed Implementation

[0021] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application, the application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application; the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0022] It should be noted that although a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be performed in a different order than that shown in the flowchart. The methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application include one or more steps or actions for implementing the method. Method steps and / or actions may be interchanged with each other without departing from the scope of the claims. Unless a specific order of steps or actions is specified, the order and / or use of specific steps and / or actions may be modified without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0023] The present application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0024] One embodiment of this application provides an airtightness testing method, which can be used to test whether the airtightness of piping consumables in a fluid system is up to standard. Please refer to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the fluid system is a cell sorting system 200, meaning that the airtightness testing method can be applied to the cell sorting system 200, and the airtightness of the tubing consumables 20 of the cell sorting system 200 can be tested before cell sorting. The cell sorting system 200 can be used for blood cell sorting, cell amplification, enrichment, and dispensing, as well as for component separation of other multi-component liquids or the preparation and enrichment of nano-immunomagnetic beads. In other embodiments, the fluid system can also be used in other fields such as automotive parts, home appliances, food, and chemicals.

[0025] The following description uses the application of an airtightness testing method to a cell sorting system 200 as an example to illustrate this application. Figure 1As shown, the cell sorting system 200 also includes a fluid loading mechanism 21, a sample container 22, and a component collection mechanism 23. The fluid loading mechanism 21, sample container 22, and component collection mechanism 23 are all connected to the tubing consumables 20. The fluid loading mechanism 21 is used to load samples or other fluid components into the tubing consumables 20.

[0026] In some embodiments, the fluid loading mechanism 21 includes a sample source loading member 21a for holding a sample. The sample source loading member 21a can communicate with the sample holding member 22 to input the sample into the sample holding member 22. The cell sorting system 200 may also include a centrifugation mechanism (not shown). The centrifugation mechanism is a mechanism with centrifugation function and the function of squeezing the sample holding member 22. Squeezing can be achieved by a mechanical structure or by generating the squeezing effect through fluid volume change. The centrifugation mechanism is equipped with a rotary connector 24 that communicates with the sample holding member 22 and the tubing consumables 20 respectively. The rotary connector 24 is used to connect the sample holding member 22 and the tubing consumables 20, so that the centrifugation mechanism drives the sample in the sample holding member 22 to achieve centrifugal stratification and squeeze the corresponding layer components into the tubing consumables 20. The rotary connector 24 can be a rotary joint.

[0027] In some embodiments, the component collection mechanism 23 includes a waste liquid container 23a and a non-waste liquid container 23b, which are respectively connected to the tubing consumables 20. The sample container 22 can be connected to the waste liquid container 23a, thereby introducing waste liquid separated from the sample container 22 into the waste liquid container 23a. The waste liquid can be the supernatant after sample centrifugation and separation. The sample container 22 can also be connected to the non-waste liquid container 23b, thereby introducing non-waste liquid components separated from the sample container 22 into the non-waste liquid container 23b. The non-waste liquid components can be the portion of the sample after centrifugation excluding the supernatant. In some embodiments, the non-waste liquid container 23b includes a target container 23b1 and a non-target container 23b2, respectively connected to the tubing consumables 20. The target container 23b1 is used to hold the target liquid in the components separated from the sample container 22, and the non-target container 23b2 is used to hold the non-target liquid in the components separated from the sample container 22.

[0028] In some embodiments, the cell sorting system 200 further includes a sorting column 25. The fluid loading mechanism 21 further includes a magnetic bead loading element 21b, a binding solution loading element 21c, and an eluent loading element 21d. The magnetic bead loading element 21b, binding solution loading element 21c, and eluent loading element 21d are respectively connected to the tubing consumables 20. The binding solution loading element 21c can be connected to the sample container 22, thereby introducing the binding solution within the binding solution loading element 21c into the sample container 22. The centrifugation mechanism further drives the sample container 22 to centrifuge, causing the binding solution and sample within the sample container 22 to mix evenly and bind to the target cells. The magnetic bead loading element 21b can be connected to the sample container 22, thereby introducing the magnetic bead solution within the magnetic bead loading element 21b into the sample container 22. The centrifugation mechanism further drives the sample container 22 to centrifuge, causing the magnetic bead solution and sample within the sample container 22 to mix evenly and bind to the labeled target cells. The sorting column 25 can be connected to the sample container 22. The centrifugation mechanism further compresses the sample container 22 to input the sample mixed with binding liquid and magnetic beads into the sorting column 25. The sorting column 25, under magnetic field conditions, can magnetically attract the magnetic beads and discharge other components in the sample into the non-target container 23b2. The sorting column 25 can be connected to the eluent loading device 21d, thereby injecting the eluent in the eluent loading device 21d into the sorting column 25, which is no longer under magnetic field conditions, to elute the target cells into the target container 23b1. In some embodiments, each container and loading device can be a bag-shaped plastic product.

[0029] In some embodiments, the cell sorting system 200 further includes a pre-sorting column 26, which is connected to the tubing consumables 20. The pre-sorting column 26 can be connected to the sample container 22 and the sorting column 25 respectively, so that the sample in the sample container 22 after removing waste liquid (at this time, the sample in the sample container 22 includes target cells, non-target cells, magnetic beads, and binding fluid, etc.) flows through the pre-sorting column 26 and then enters the sorting column 25, thereby achieving filtration of the sample entering the sorting column 25.

[0030] In some embodiments, the pipeline consumables 20 include a first main pipeline 20a, a second main pipeline 20b, a third main pipeline 20c, a working pipeline 20d, a loading pipeline 20e, a waste liquid pipeline 20f, a distribution pipeline 20g, a destination pipeline 20h, and a non-destination pipeline 20i.

[0031] The first main pipeline 20a can be connected by at least one pipeline via a connector (the figure shows that the first main pipeline 20a consists of four pipeline sections). One end of the first main pipeline 20a is connected to the sample container 22 via a swivel connector 24. The second main pipeline 20b can be connected by at least one pipeline via a connector (the figure shows that the second main pipeline 20b consists of two pipeline sections). One end of the second main pipeline 20b is connected to a first position of the first main pipeline 20a, and the other end of the second main pipeline 20b is connected to the waste liquid pipeline 20f. One end of the working pipeline 20d is connected to the first position of the second main pipeline 20b, and the other end of the working pipeline 20d is divided into a first connecting pipeline 20d1, a second connecting pipeline 20d2, and a third connecting pipeline 20d3. The first connecting pipeline 20d1 is connected to the other end of the first main pipeline 20a, the second connecting pipeline 20d2 is connected to one end of the third main pipeline 20c, and the third connecting pipeline 20d3 is connected to the waste liquid pipeline 20f. The sorting column 25 is connected to the third main pipeline 20c, and the other end of the third main pipeline 20c is connected to the first position of the distribution pipeline 20g. One end of the distribution pipeline 20g is connected to the waste liquid pipeline 20f, and the other end of the distribution pipeline 20g is connected to the destination pipeline 20h. The non-destination pipeline 20i is connected to the second position of the distribution pipeline 20g. One end of the loading pipeline 20e is connected to the second position of the first main pipeline 20a, and the other end of the loading pipeline 20e is connected to the fluid loading mechanism 21.

[0032] like Figure 2As shown, the cell sorting system 200 also includes a valve assembly 10, a first pressure sensor 30, a second pressure sensor 40, a power unit 50, and a processor (not shown). The valve assembly 10, the first pressure sensor 30, and the second pressure sensor 40 are all mounted on the tubing consumable 20. The processor is electrically connected to the valve assembly 10, the first pressure sensor 30, the second pressure sensor 40, and the power unit 50. The processor controls the corresponding operations of the valve assembly 10, the first pressure sensor 30, the second pressure sensor 40, and the power unit 50, and, in conjunction with an automated program, completes the airtightness test of the tubing consumable 20. In some embodiments, the cell sorting system 200 also includes a display 60. The display 60 is used to display the operating methods of the valve assembly 10, the first pressure sensor 30, and the second pressure sensor 40, for example, the display 60 can display relevant text or image information to remind the user how to operate the valve assembly 10, the first pressure sensor 30, and the second pressure sensor 40 during airtightness testing. The processor can be a Central Processing Unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0033] After the airtightness test is completed, during the subsequent cell sorting process, the valve assembly 10 can also control the fluid loading mechanism 21 to connect with the sample container 22, or control the sample container 22 to connect with the component collection mechanism 23, thereby controlling the flow of samples or components entering the tubing consumable 20 according to a preset time sequence and preset path. The valve assembly 10 can include switching valves installed at various positions on the tubing consumable 20 for controlling on / off switching, achieving different path switching through the opening and closing of each switching valve. The preset time sequence and preset path are specifically set according to the types of samples to be sorted. For ease of installation, each switching valve can be clamped at different positions on the tubing consumable 20; that is, the switching valve can be a clamp valve (such as an electric clamp valve). During the subsequent cell sorting process, the power unit 50 can also provide power to the components or samples flowing through the tubing consumable 20. The power unit 50 can be a peristaltic pump, etc. For ease of installation, the peristaltic pump can be clamped onto the tubing consumable 20.

[0034] The valve assembly 10 includes a first switching valve 11, a second switching valve 12, a third switching valve 13, a fourth switching valve 14, a fifth switching valve 15, a sixth switching valve 16, a seventh switching valve 17, an eighth switching valve 18, a ninth switching valve 19, a tenth switching valve 110, and an eleventh switching valve 111.

[0035] First switch valve 11, second switch valve 12, and third switch valve 13 are all installed on the first main pipeline 20a. First switch valve 11 is located between the rotary connector 24 and the second main pipeline 20b; second switch valve 12 is located between the second main pipeline 20b and the loading pipeline 20e; and third switch valve 13 is located between the loading pipeline 20e and the first connecting pipeline 20d1. Fourth switch valve 14 and fifth switch valve 15 are both installed on the second main pipeline 20b. Fourth switch valve 14 is located between the first main pipeline 20a and the working pipeline 20d; and fifth switch valve 15 is located between the working pipeline 20d and the waste liquid pipeline 20f. Sixth switch valve 16 is installed on the third main pipeline 20c, and sixth switch valve 16 is located between the second connecting pipeline 20d2 and the sorting column 25. Both the seventh and eighth switching valves 17 and 18 are installed on the waste liquid line 20f. The seventh switching valve 17 is located between the third connecting line 20d3 and the second main line 20b, and the eighth switching valve 18 is located between the distribution line 20g and the end of the waste liquid line 20f furthest from the distribution line 20g. Both the ninth and tenth switching valves 19 and 110 are installed on the distribution line 20g. The ninth switching valve 19 is located between the third main line 20c and the non-destination line 20i, and the tenth switching valve 110 is located between the third main line 20c and the destination line 20h. The eleventh switching valve 111 is installed on the non-destination line 20i. Of course, each fluid loading mechanism 21 is also equipped with a switching valve (not shown in the figure). By operating the switching valve, the fluid in the fluid loading mechanism 21 can be output externally.

[0036] During subsequent cell sorting, when waste liquid needs to be discharged from sample container 22 to waste liquid container 23a, the first switch valve 11, the fourth switch valve 14, the fifth switch valve 15, and the eighth switch valve 18 are opened, while the other switch valves are closed. When sample, magnetic bead solution, binding solution, or eluent needs to be loaded from fluid loading mechanism 21 into sample container 22, the switch valves (not shown in the figure), the third switch valve 13, the fourth switch valve 14, and the first switch valve 11 on fluid loading mechanism 21 are opened, while the other switch valves are closed, and the power unit 50 is activated. When non-target cells need to be discharged to non-target container 23b2, the first switch valve 11, the fourth switch valve 14, the fifth switch valve 15, the seventh switch valve 17, the sixth switch valve 16, the ninth switch valve 19, and the eleventh switch valve 111 are opened, while the other switch valves are closed. When it is necessary to output the target cells to the target container 23b1, the first switch valve 11, the fourth switch valve 14, the fifth switch valve 15, the seventh switch valve 17, the sixth switch valve 16 and the tenth switch valve 110 are opened, and the other switch valves are closed.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the tubing consumable 20 further includes a pre-sorting tubing 20j, which is connected to the junction of the first main tubing 20a and the first connecting tubing 20d1. A pre-sorting column 26 is installed on the pre-sorting tubing 20j. Correspondingly, the valve assembly 10 also includes a twelfth switching valve 112 and a thirteenth switching valve 113. The twelfth switching valve 112 is installed on the first main tubing 20a. The thirteenth switching valve 113 is installed on the pre-sorting tubing 20j and is located between the first main tubing 20a and the sorting column 25. During subsequent cell sorting, when it is necessary to output the sample after removing waste liquid from the sample container 22 to the pre-sorting column 26, the first switching valve 11, the second switching valve 12, the third switching valve 13, the twelfth switching valve 112, and the thirteenth switching valve 113 are opened, while the other switching valves are closed.

[0038] The power unit 50, the first pressure sensor 30, and the second pressure sensor 40 are all installed on the working pipe 20d. The first pressure sensor 30 is located on the first side 50a of the power unit 50, and the second pressure sensor 40 is located on the second side 50b of the power unit 50. The first pressure sensor 30 and the second pressure sensor 40 are used to measure the pressure values ​​within the working pipes 20d on both sides of the power unit 50, respectively. The following will combine... Figure 3 Explain the specific functions of components such as power component 50, first pressure sensor 30, and second pressure sensor 40.

[0039] Please see Figure 3This is a flowchart of the airtightness detection method for the cell sorting system 200 described above, provided in this application. Depending on different requirements, the order of steps in the above method can be changed, and some steps can be omitted or combined. The airtightness detection method includes the following steps:

[0040] Step S1: Provide the cell sorting system 200, which includes a consumable tubing 20 and a valve assembly 10, a first pressure sensor 30, a second pressure sensor 40, and a power unit 50 respectively installed on the consumable tubing 20. The first pressure sensor 30, the second pressure sensor 40, and the power unit 50 are all installed on the working tubing 20d of the consumable tubing 20, and the first pressure sensor 30 and the second pressure sensor 40 are located on the first side 50a and the second side 50b of the power unit 50, respectively.

[0041] The switch valve on the loading pipeline 20e can be closed to shut off the inlet of the fluid loading mechanism 21, thus preventing the sample or other components inside the fluid loading mechanism 21 from flowing out.

[0042] Step S2: Turn on the power component 50 on the working pipe 20d so that the gas (e.g., air) in the working pipe 20d flows from the first side 50a to the second side 50b.

[0043] In some embodiments, the power unit 50 is a peristaltic pump. The peristaltic pump can rotate clockwise and compress the working pipe 20d in a direction from the first side 50a to the second side 50b, thereby causing the gas in the working pipe 20d to flow in the same direction. Because the gas flows from the first side 50a to the second side 50b, the air in the working pipe 20d on the first side 50a of the power unit 50 decreases, thus reducing the pressure value in the working pipe 20d on the first side 50a of the power unit 50 (e.g., exhibiting negative pressure). Similarly, the air in the working pipe 20d on the second side 50b of the power unit 50 increases, thus increasing the pressure value in the working pipe 20d on the second side 50b of the power unit 50 (e.g., exhibiting positive pressure).

[0044] In some embodiments, before activating the power component 50, the switching valves located on the first side 50a and the second side 50b of the power component 50 can be selectively opened first. Selectively opening the switching valves on the first side 50a of the power component 50 aims to connect the consumable tubing 20 connected to the first side 50a of the power component 50. Similarly, selectively opening the switching valves on the second side 50b of the power component 50 aims to connect the consumable tubing 20 connected to the second side 50b of the power component 50. This facilitates subsequent testing of the airtightness of each path of the consumable tubing 20. Simultaneously, after selectively opening the switching valves, the connection between the consumable tubing 20 connected to the first side 50a of the power component 50 and the consumable tubing 20 connected to the second side 50b of the power component 50 must be disconnected. Thus, when the gas in the working pipe 20d flows from the first side 50a to the second side 50b, causing a negative pressure in the working pipe 20d located on the first side 50a of the power component 50 and a positive pressure in the working pipe 20d located on the second side 50b of the power component 50, the consumable material 20 in the pipe connecting the first side 50a of the power component 50 will have a negative pressure, and the consumable material 20 in the pipe connecting the second side 50b of the power component 50 will have a positive pressure. Furthermore, the negative pressure in the consumable material 20 in the pipe connecting the first side 50a of the power component 50 and the positive pressure in the consumable material 20 in the pipe connecting the second side 50b of the power component 50 will not affect each other.

[0045] For example, in such Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the first switching valve 11 and the fourth switching valve 14 located on the first side 50a of the power component 50 can be selectively opened. Simultaneously, the third switching valve 13, the sixth switching valve 16, the seventh switching valve 17, the ninth switching valve 19, the twelfth switching valve 112, and the thirteenth switching valve 113 located on the second side 50b of the power component 50 can be selectively opened. This allows all consumable pipes 20 connected to the first side 50a of the power component 50 to experience negative pressure, and also allows all consumable pipes 20 connected to the first side 50a of the power component 50 to experience positive pressure. Furthermore, it prevents consumable pipes 20 experiencing negative pressure from communicating with consumable pipes 20 experiencing positive pressure.

[0046] Step S3: Turn off the power component 50. During the first time period after turning off the power component 50, measure the actual pressure value in the working pipe 20d of the first side 50a of the power component 50 through the first pressure sensor 30 and record it as the first actual pressure value P1. Then measure the actual pressure value in the working pipe 20d of the second side 50b of the power component 50 through the second pressure sensor 40 and record it as the second actual pressure value P2.

[0047] In some embodiments, before selectively opening the switching valve, the empty pipe pressure value in the working pipe 20d of the first side 50a of the power component 50 is first measured by the first pressure sensor 30 and recorded as the first empty pipe pressure value P. 01 The empty pipe pressure value in the working pipe 20d of the second side 50b of the power component 50 is measured by the second pressure sensor 40 and recorded as the second empty pipe pressure value P. 02 Specifically, after installing the first pressure sensor 30 and the second pressure sensor 40 on the working pipe 20d, the pressure value within the working pipe 20d can be allowed to stabilize after a period of time. Then, the first pressure sensor 30 and the second pressure sensor 40 respectively measure the empty pipe pressure value within the working pipe 20d on both sides of the power component 50. To improve the accuracy of the measurement, five empty pipe pressure values ​​within the working pipe 20d on the first side 50a of the power component 50 can be read within one second, and then the average value of these five empty pipe pressure values ​​can be calculated. This average value is the first empty pipe pressure value P. 01 Similarly, the five empty pipe pressure values ​​within the working pipe 20d of the second side 50b of the power component 50 can be read within 1 second, and then the average value of these five empty pipe pressure values ​​can be calculated. This average value is the second empty pipe pressure value P. 02 .

[0048] Then, during the first time period after the power unit 50 is turned off, multiple pressure values ​​in the working pipeline 20d of the first side 50a of the power unit 50 are continuously measured by the first pressure sensor 30 and recorded as the first measured pressure value P. 11 Multiple pressure values ​​within the working pipe 20d on the second side 50b of the power component 50 are continuously measured by the second pressure sensor 40 and recorded as the second measured pressure value P. 12 For example, in some embodiments, the first time period is within 2 seconds after the power unit 50 is turned off. During these 2 seconds, the pressure value in the working pipe 20d of the first side 50a of the power unit 50 is read every 200 milliseconds, resulting in a total of 10 first measured pressure values ​​P. 11 Simultaneously, the pressure value within the working pipe 20d of the second side 50b of the power component 50 is read every 200 milliseconds, resulting in a total of 10 second measured pressure values ​​P. 12 .

[0049] Then, based on the first empty pipe pressure value P 01 and each first measured pressure value P 11 Calculate the first actual pressure value P1 within the working pipe 20d on the first side 50a of the power component 50, based on the second empty pipe pressure value P. 02 and each second measured pressure value P 12 Calculate the second actual pressure value P2 within the working pipe 20d on the second side 50b of the power component 50. Wherein, the first actual pressure value P1 = P 11-P 01 The second actual pressure value P2 = P 12 -P 02 It can be understood that at this time, 10 first actual pressure values ​​P1 and 10 second actual pressure values ​​P2 are obtained. In some embodiments of this application, the consumable material 20, including the working pipe 20d, is a flexible hose. When the first pressure sensor 30 is installed on the working pipe 20d, the working pipe 20d will undergo elastic deformation and apply pressure to the gas inside the working pipe 20d. By calculating the difference between the first measured pressure value and the first empty pipe pressure value, the effect of the elastic deformation of the working pipe 20d after the installation of the first pressure sensor 30 and its effect on the gas inside the working pipe 20d can be offset, thereby facilitating the obtaining of the true pressure inside the working pipe 20d on the first side 50a of the power component 50. Similarly, by calculating the difference between the second measured pressure value and the second empty pipe pressure value, the true pressure inside the working pipe 20d on the second side 50b of the power component 50 can be obtained.

[0050] Step S4: Based on the first actual pressure value P1 and the second actual pressure value P2, make an initial judgment on whether the airtightness of the pipeline consumable 20 is qualified.

[0051] In some embodiments, the airtightness of the pipeline consumable 20 is initially determined to be qualified when the first actual pressure value P1 and the second actual pressure value P2 simultaneously meet the following two conditions:

[0052] Condition 1: Each first actual pressure value P1 is less than the first empty pipe pressure value P. 01 Each second actual pressure value P2 is greater than the second empty pipe pressure value P. 02 Meeting this condition means that the consumable pipes 20 located on both sides of the power component 50 are airtight, so that the working pipe 20d on the first side 50a of the power component 50 generates negative pressure due to gas flow, and the working pipe 20d on the second side 50b of the power component 50 generates positive pressure due to gas flow.

[0053] Condition 2: The range of the absolute values ​​of multiple first actual pressure values ​​P1 does not exceed 10% of the maximum value among the absolute values ​​of multiple first actual pressure values ​​P1, and the range of the absolute values ​​of multiple second actual pressure values ​​P2 does not exceed 10% of the maximum value among the absolute values ​​of multiple second actual pressure values ​​P2. Meeting this condition means that the consumable pipes 20 located on both sides of the power component 50 are airtight, ensuring that the pressure value of the working pipes 20d on each side of the working pipe 20d will not change drastically due to gas leakage during the first time period.

[0054] It is understandable that the above two conditions can be used to determine the airtightness of the pipeline consumable 20 during the first time period after the power component 50 is turned off, thereby evaluating the airtightness of the pipeline consumable 20.

[0055] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the airtightness of the pipeline consumable 20 during a second time period following the first time period can be further determined, thereby improving the accuracy of the airtightness determination. That is, when it is determined that the pipeline consumable 20 simultaneously meets the above two conditions, it is further determined whether the pipeline consumable 20 meets the following condition three. Only when condition three is met is the airtightness of the pipeline consumable 20 deemed qualified. Specifically, during the second time period following the first time period, multiple pressure values ​​in the working pipeline 20d of the first side 50a of the power component 50 are continuously measured by the first pressure sensor 30, and recorded as the third measured pressure value P. 21 The second pressure sensor 40 continuously measures multiple pressure values ​​within the working pipe 20d on the second side 50b of the power component 50, and records them as the fourth measured pressure value P. 22 For example, in some embodiments, the second time period is from the 3rd to the 60th second after the power unit 50 is shut down, during which multiple third measured pressure values ​​P are read every 200 milliseconds in the working pipe 20d of the first side 50a of the power unit 50. 21 Simultaneously, multiple fourth-measured pressure values ​​P are read every 200 milliseconds within the working pipe 20d of the second side 50b of the power component 50. 22 Then, first calculate the average value X1 of the multiple first actual pressure values ​​P1 obtained in step S4 and the average value X2 of the multiple second actual pressure values ​​P2, and then make the judgment of condition three.

[0056] Condition 3: Multiple consecutive third-measured pressure values ​​P 21 The variation did not exceed 10% of the average value X1, and multiple consecutive fourth measured pressure values ​​P 22 The change in pressure did not exceed 10% of the average value X2. Meeting this condition means that the airtightness of the consumable pipes 20 on both sides of the power component 50 remains good during the second time period, ensuring that the pressure value of the working pipes 20d on each side of the working pipe 20d will not change drastically due to gas leakage during the second time period. In some embodiments, the three continuously measured third pressure values ​​P can be determined. 21 Whether the variation exceeds 10% of the average value X1 is used to determine the three consecutive fourth measured pressure values ​​P. 22 Does the change exceed 10% of the average value x2?

[0057] It is understood that after step S4, the airtightness of the consumable pipe 20 can be preliminarily determined (hereinafter referred to as: initial airtightness test). After the initial airtightness test, the actual measurement is the airtightness when the consumable pipe 20 located on the first side 50a of the power component 50 is under negative pressure and the consumable pipe 20 located on the second side 50b of the power component 50 is under positive pressure. In some embodiments, if the initial airtightness test fails, it is determined that the sealing performance of the consumable pipe 20 does not meet the requirements, and the test fails. Conversely, if the initial airtightness test passes, a second airtightness test can be further performed, that is, the airtightness is measured and determined when the consumable pipe 20 located on the first side 50a of the power component 50 is under positive pressure and the consumable pipe 20 located on the second side 50b of the power component 50 is under negative pressure, thereby improving the accuracy of the airtightness determination. That is, after passing the initial airtightness test in step S4, the airtightness test of this application may further include the following steps:

[0058] Step S5: Restart the power unit 50 so that the gas (e.g., air) in the working pipe 20d flows from the second side 50b to the first side 50a.

[0059] In some embodiments, when the power unit 50 is a peristaltic pump, the peristaltic pump can rotate counterclockwise and compress the working pipe 20d in a direction from the second side 50b to the first side 50a, thereby causing the gas in the working pipe 20d to flow in a direction from the second side 50b to the first side 50a. Because the gas flows in a direction from the second side 50b to the first side 50a, the air volume in the working pipe 20d on the first side 50a of the power unit 50 increases, thus increasing the pressure value in the working pipe 20d on the first side 50a of the power unit 50 (e.g., exhibiting positive pressure). Similarly, the air volume in the working pipe 20d on the second side 50b of the power unit 50 decreases, thus decreasing the pressure value in the working pipe 20d on the second side 50b of the power unit 50 (e.g., exhibiting negative pressure).

[0060] In some embodiments, the switch valve opened in step S2 remains open in step S5, such that the consumable pipe 20 connected to the first side 50a of the power component 50 is in communication with the first side 50a of the power component 50, the consumable pipe 20 connected to the second side 50b of the power component 50 is in communication with the second side 50b of the power component 50, and the connection between the consumable pipe 20 connecting the first side 50a of the power component 50 and the consumable pipe 20 connecting the second side 50b of the power component 50 is disconnected. In other embodiments, the switch valve opened in step S2 is at least partially closed in step S5. For example, in... Figure 1In the illustrated embodiment, the first switching valve 11 is closed in step S5, thereby preventing the sample container 22 (in some embodiments, a bag-shaped plastic product) from expanding in volume under positive pressure, which would prevent a suitable positive pressure from being formed in the first main pipeline 20a.

[0061] Step S6: Power component 50 is turned off. During the first time period after power component 50 is turned off, the actual pressure value in the working pipe 20d of the first side 50a of power component 50 is measured by the first pressure sensor 30 and recorded as the third actual pressure value P3. The actual pressure value in the working pipe 20d of the second side 50b of power component 50 is measured by the second pressure sensor 40 and recorded as the fourth actual pressure value P4.

[0062] In step S6, the third actual pressure value P3 and the fourth actual pressure value P4 can be determined using a method similar to that in step S3, which will not be elaborated here.

[0063] Step S7: Combine the third actual pressure value P3 and the fourth actual pressure value P4 to make a second judgment on the airtightness of the pipeline consumable 20.

[0064] In step S7, the airtightness of the piping consumable 20 can be determined using a method similar to that in step S4, which will not be elaborated here. If the secondary airtightness test fails, the sealing performance of the piping consumable 20 is deemed unsatisfactory, and the test is considered unsuccessful. Conversely, if the test is successful, the sealing performance of the piping consumable 20 is deemed satisfactory, and the test is considered passed.

[0065] like Figure 4 As shown, in some other embodiments, if the initial airtightness test fails after step S4, to avoid misjudgment caused by abnormal fluctuations in the pressure sensor data, the initial airtightness test can be performed again (i.e., steps S3 and S4 are repeated). Only if both initial airtightness tests fail is the airtightness of the pipeline consumable 20 ultimately determined to be unqualified.

[0066] Similarly, if the secondary airtightness test fails, to avoid misjudgment caused by abnormal fluctuations in the pressure sensor data, the secondary airtightness test can be repeated (i.e., steps S6 and S7 can be repeated). Only if both secondary airtightness tests fail will the airtightness of the pipeline consumable 20 be finally determined to be unqualified.

[0067] This application, through the cooperation of the power component 50, valve assembly 10, first pressure sensor 30, and second pressure sensor 40, can automatically detect whether the airtightness of the tubing consumable 20 is up to standard. When the fluid system is a cell sorting system, it can prevent leakage of the tubing consumable 20 during cell sorting, thereby ensuring the stability of the cell sorting process and preventing sample contamination of the instrument and laboratory environment, avoiding fire hazards and biochemical contamination risks. Moreover, this application does not require the introduction of mechanical structures within the tubing consumable 20 to detect its airtightness, thus facilitating the guarantee of the airtightness and sterility of the tubing consumable 20. This application also does not require the injection of additional liquid to detect the airtightness of the tubing consumable 20; instead, it directly promotes the flow of gas within the tubing consumable 20 to change the pressure within the working pipeline 20d, and combines the pressure value to determine the airtightness of the tubing consumable 20. Since gas is more compressible than liquid, the pressure change range caused by gas flow within the tubing consumable 20 is larger, thereby improving detection accuracy. Furthermore, this application also avoids the risk that the pipeline consumable 20 may be damaged or leak slightly after the liquid flow reaches the pressure threshold, but this may not be detected in time. Finally, by selectively opening the switching valve, this application allows the airtightness of each path within the pipeline consumable 20 to be detected, and also allows the airtightness of the sample container 22 itself to be detected.

[0068] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions can be made to the technical solutions of this application without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of this application.

Claims

1. A method of leak detection for a fluid system, comprising: The air tightness detection method comprises: providing the fluid system, the fluid system comprising a pipeline consumable, a power element, a first pressure sensor and a second pressure sensor, the pipeline consumable comprising a working pipeline, the power element being clamped on the working pipeline, the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor being installed on the working pipeline, and the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor being located at a first side and a second side of the power element respectively; starting the power element, so that the gas in the working pipeline flows in a direction from the first side to the second side, wherein the air in the working pipeline at the first side is reduced, the pressure value in the working pipeline at the first side is reduced, and the air in the working pipeline at the second side is increased, the pressure value in the working pipeline at the second side is increased; stopping the power element, measuring a first actual pressure value in the working pipeline at the first side by the first pressure sensor and a second actual pressure value in the working pipeline at the second side by the second pressure sensor within a first time period after stopping the power element; combining the first actual pressure value and the second actual pressure value to initially judge the air tightness of the pipeline consumable.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein The air tightness detection method further comprises: restarting the power element, so that the gas in the working pipeline flows in a direction from the second side to the first side; stopping the power element, measuring a third actual pressure value in the working pipeline at the first side by the first pressure sensor and a fourth actual pressure value in the working pipeline at the second side by the second pressure sensor within a first time period after stopping the power element; combining the third actual pressure value and the fourth actual pressure value to secondarily judge the air tightness of the pipeline consumable.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein Before starting the power element, the air tightness detection method further comprises: measuring a first empty pipeline pressure value in the working pipeline at the first side by the first pressure sensor and a second empty pipeline pressure value in the working pipeline at the second side by the second pressure sensor; measuring a first measured pressure value in the working pipeline at the first side by the first pressure sensor and a second measured pressure value in the working pipeline at the second side by the second pressure sensor within a first time period after stopping the power element; calculating the first actual pressure value according to the difference between the first measured pressure value and the first empty pipeline pressure value, and calculating the second actual pressure value according to the difference between the second measured pressure value and the second empty pipeline pressure value.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, The first measurement pressure values are a plurality of first measurement pressure values measured continuously in a first time period after the power element is turned off, the second measurement pressure values are a plurality of second measurement pressure values measured continuously in the first time period after the power element is turned off, the first actual pressure values are differences between each of the first measurement pressure values and the first empty pipe pressure value, and the second actual pressure values are differences between each of the second measurement pressure values and the second empty pipe pressure value; The air tightness of the pipe consumable is initially determined to be qualified when the first actual pressure values and the second actual pressure values satisfy predetermined conditions, and the predetermined conditions include: Each of the first actual pressure values is less than the first empty pipe pressure value, and each of the second actual pressure values is greater than the second empty pipe pressure value; A range of absolute values of the first actual pressure values does not exceed 10% of a maximum value of the absolute values of the first actual pressure values, and a range of absolute values of the second actual pressure values does not exceed 10% of a maximum value of the absolute values of the second actual pressure values.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein After the power element is turned off, the air tightness detection method further includes: In a second time period after the first time period, a plurality of third measurement pressure values in the working pipe on the first side are measured continuously by the first pressure sensor, and a plurality of fourth measurement pressure values in the working pipe on the second side are measured continuously by the second pressure sensor; An average of the first actual pressure values and an average of the second actual pressure values are calculated; The predetermined conditions further include: A variation range of the third measurement pressure values does not exceed 10% of the average of the first actual pressure values, and a variation range of the fourth measurement pressure values does not exceed 10% of the average of the second actual pressure values.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein The fluid system further includes a valve assembly for being mounted on the pipe consumable, the valve assembly includes a plurality of on-off valves, and the air tightness detection method further includes: The on-off valve on the first side is selectively opened to enable the pipe consumable connected to the first side to communicate with the first side; The on-off valve on the second side is selectively opened to enable the pipe consumable connected to the second side to communicate with the second side, and the pipe consumable connected to the first side is disconnected from the pipe consumable connected to the second side.

7. A fluid system comprising a tubing consumable, the tubing consumable comprising a working tube, characterized by, The fluid system further includes a power element, a first pressure sensor, a second pressure sensor, and a processor, the power element is used to be clamped on the working pipe, the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor are used to be mounted on the working pipe, and the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor are respectively located on a first side and a second side of the power element; The processor is used to: opening the power element, so that the gas in the working pipeline flows from the first side to the second side, wherein the air in the working pipeline at the first side is reduced, the pressure value in the working pipeline at the first side is reduced, and the air in the working pipeline at the second side is increased, the pressure value in the working pipeline at the second side is increased; closing the power element, obtaining a first actual pressure value in the working pipeline at the first side measured by the first pressure sensor and a second actual pressure value in the working pipeline at the second side measured by the second pressure sensor within a first time period after the power element is closed; combining the first actual pressure value and the second actual pressure value to initially determine the air tightness of the pipeline consumable.

8. The fluid system of claim 7, wherein, The processor is further configured to: reopening the power element, so that the gas in the working pipeline flows from the second side to the first side; closing the power element, obtaining a third actual pressure value in the working pipeline at the first side measured by the first pressure sensor and a fourth actual pressure value in the working pipeline at the second side measured by the second pressure sensor within a first time period after the power element is closed; combining the third actual pressure value and the fourth actual pressure value to secondarily determine the air tightness of the pipeline consumable.

9. The fluid system of claim 7, wherein, The fluid system further comprises a valve assembly for being installed on the pipeline consumable, wherein the valve assembly comprises a plurality of on-off valves. The processor is further configured to: selectively opening the on-off valve at the first side, so that the pipeline consumable connected to the first side is in communication with the first side; selectively opening the on-off valve at the second side, so that the pipeline consumable connected to the second side is in communication with the second side, and the pipeline consumable in communication with the first side is disconnected from the pipeline consumable in communication with the second side.

10. The fluid system of claim 9, wherein, The fluid system further comprises a display for displaying installation information of the valve assembly, the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor.

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