Pressure supply unit and method for providing first and second target pressure levels for microfluidic analysis system, microfluidic analysis system

Abstract

The invention relates to a pressure supply unit for providing a first target pressure level (1051) and a second target pressure level (1051), the pressure supply unit comprising:-a pump (103) for drawing in a fluid; -first means (1011, 1071) for fluid flow control on a first side (1001) of the pump (103), which first means control the fluid flow as a function of a first current pressure level (1053) and are thus designed to provide a first target pressure level (1051) on the first side (1001) of the pressure supply unit (100); and-a second member (1012, 1072) for fluid flow control on a second side (1002) of the pump (103), which second member controls the fluid flow as a function of a second current pressure level (1054) and is thus designed to provide a second target pressure level (1052) on the second side (1002) of the pressure supply unit (100). Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for providing two target pressure levels (1051, 1052) and to a microfluidic analysis system.

Description

Background Art

[0001] DE 10 2018 114 150 A1 discloses an apparatus and a method for separating fluid samples, wherein the sample separation apparatus has only one pump for all separation stages in common for moving the respective mobile phase. Given this implementation with only a single high-pressure pump as the fluid driver, one-dimensional analysis and two-dimensional analysis are performed not in parallel but successively. Summary of the Invention

[0002] The core and advantages of the present invention.

[0003] The present invention relates to a pressure supply unit for providing a first target pressure level and a second target pressure level according to the independent claims, a method for providing a first target pressure level and a second target pressure level, a microfluidic analysis system, furthermore a controller using the aforementioned method, and finally a corresponding computer program.

[0004] The advantage of the present invention having the features of the independent claims is that a compact pressure supply unit with a simplified structure and simplified operation is provided for providing two different target pressure levels, that is, specific or defined pressure levels, and this pressure supply unit can furthermore be manufactured at low cost.

[0005] This is achieved by means of a pressure supply unit for providing a first target pressure level and a second target pressure level according to claim 1, wherein the first target pressure level and the second target pressure level are different from each other. The pressure supply unit comprises: - a pump for sucking in a fluid, in particular a gas, such as air for example - a first member for fluid flow control, which first member ▪ is arranged on a first side of the pump, and ▪ is for • enabling a fluid flow from the first side of the pressure supply unit to the pump if a first current pressure level on the first side is greater than the first target pressure level, and • enabling a fluid flow from the surroundings of the pressure supply unit to the pump if the first current pressure level on the first side is less than or equal to the first target pressure level, and thus being configured to provide the first target pressure level on the first side of the pressure supply unit, and - a second member for fluid flow control, which second member ▪ is arranged on a second side of the pump, and ▪ is for • If the second current pressure level on the second side is less than the second target pressure level, a fluid flow from the pump to the second side of the pressure supply unit can be achieved, and • If the second current pressure level on the second side is greater than or equal to the second target pressure level, a fluid flow from the pump to the surroundings of the pressure supply unit can be achieved, and thus is set up to provide the second target pressure level on the second side of the pressure supply unit.

[0006] The pressure supply unit is set up to generate a pressure level and supply fluid, in particular compressed air, to other systems that are or can be coupled to the pressure supply unit. The pressure supply unit according to claim 1 is set up to supply other systems with fluid (such as compressed air) having a specific pressure, that is, for example, a high pressure level of up to 3000 mbarA and / or a vacuum pressure level of up to 200 mbarA in particular. The pressure supply unit can be connected or is connected to other systems, for example, via at least one pneumatic interface.

[0007] The term "target pressure level" is understood in particular as a target pressure value, such as, for example, 400 mbarA (millibar) or 2600 mbarA, with a tolerance range around this target pressure value, such as, for example, + / - 100 mbar, where it applies that 1 bar = 10 5 Pa. The target pressure level is the pressure level that can be provided by the pressure supply unit for the load piece / system. An example: The first target pressure level corresponds to 400 mbarA + / - 100 mbar, and the second target pressure level corresponds to 2500 mbarA + / - 100 mbar.

[0008] The term "current pressure level" is understood as the current pressure value, such as, for example, 2300 mbarA. The current pressure level is adjusted by means of the pump and components for fluid flow control until it corresponds to the respective target pressure level, that is, in particular, within the tolerance range around the target pressure value.

[0009] The pressure supply unit is arranged in a surroundings in which fluid, in particular liquid or gas, such as, for example, air, can be arranged. The surroundings are characterized in that they are filled with the fluid or can be filled with the fluid. The surroundings can in particular include the entirety surrounding the pressure supply unit, which can be configured as an open volume space or a limited volume space, such as, for example, a space, a housing, a container, a fluid storage, etc.

[0010] A pump for inhaling fluids, especially gases and / or liquids, can be configured, for example, as a single pump, such as a double-headed pump. In particular, the pump can include a diaphragm pump, a fan, or a compressor. The pump is provided for conveying fluids. The pump connects reservoirs, that is, containers or areas for receiving fluids, to each other and can convey fluids between the reservoirs, that is, especially inhale fluids from the reservoirs and transfer them to other reservoirs. The pump can, for example, inhale fluids from the surroundings of a pressure supply unit and transfer them to a system where the fluids are needed, such as a pressure vessel, a microfluidic analysis system for performing sample analysis, especially a test module unit of an analysis system, etc.

[0011] This transfer is achieved especially by components for fluid flow control, especially valves, such as check valves or switching valves, such as 3 / 2-way valves (3 / 2-Wegeventil). "Fluid flow control" is especially understood not only as blocking / preventing the fluid flow, mixing the fluid streams, but also as diverting or redirecting the fluid flow.

[0012] The pump is arranged between two sides of the pressure supply unit, namely the first side and the second side. The sides especially denote areas where different pressure levels can be set. Containers, such as hydraulic accumulators or pressure vessels, can be arranged on different sides, where pressures corresponding to the respective target pressure levels can be generated. In addition, components for fluid flow control are arranged on each side, as well as pipelines that connect different units and components to each other and through which fluids can move between different units and components. Each side can be connected, for example, to a system or subsystem, especially a test module of a microfluidic analysis unit, by means of an interface or a connector for transferring fluids, and provide a pressure level for the system or subsystem by transferring the fluids of the respective side, that is, for example, supply compressed air with the target pressure level set by the pressure supply unit to the system.

[0013] The advantage is that a structurally compact pressure supply unit can be achieved in such a way that the supply circuit is designed such that a single pump can be used to generate two target pressure levels and provide them to the systems connected to the pressure supply unit. In addition, pumps can thus be advantageously saved in the entire pressure-generating system, thereby reducing costs and the control complexity in terms of parallel control methods, in addition to the structural space. Another positive effect is that the number of potential noise sources (pumps) is reduced, so that the system is quieter and thus more user-friendly.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first component for fluid flow control can be connected to a first memory volume, in particular a first fluid memory, in particular a gas memory, and / or the second component for fluid flow control can be connected to a second memory volume, in particular a second fluid memory, in particular a gas memory. The advantage is that pressure can thus be stored in the container / volume on the respective side of the pressure supply unit and provided to the system.

[0015] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the resilience of the system can thereby be increased and pressure peaks can be buffered, which may occur due to possible switching of components for flow control (in particular valves), due to the start-up of a pump or due to the design-related pulsations of the pump. It is proposed here that if only the pure resilience effect achieved by the volume is desired, a volume of 5 - 10% of the volume flow at the design operating point is selected. If the pressure supply unit should also be used to implement a storage function (which is particularly important for shutdown operation), the volume should be designed accordingly based on the components installed in the system and should be designed such that when the pump is not running, the system components can be supplied by the memory for their functions within 30 to 120 seconds.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first side is configured as a low-pressure zone and the second side is configured as a high-pressure zone, wherein a low-pressure level can be provided as a first target pressure level in the low-pressure zone and wherein a high-pressure level can be provided as a second target pressure level in the high-pressure zone. Thus, the system coupled to the pressure supply unit can advantageously be supplied with a low-pressure level and a high-pressure level, wherein for this purpose only one pump is used instead of two pumps.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first target pressure level and the second target pressure level each have target pressure values of 400 mbarA, 2500 mbarA or target pressure values within the range of 400 mbarA to 2500 mbarA system pressure and a tolerance range of in particular + / - 100 mbar around the respective target pressure value, wherein the first target pressure level and the second target pressure level are different from each other, that is to say in particular the respective target pressure values of the target pressure levels are different from each other.

[0018] In one embodiment, at least one pressure sensor unit is arranged at the first side and / or the second side for pressure regulation and / or for controlling a safety shutdown. In particular, the current pressure level can thereby be measured. Furthermore, monitoring of the pump can thus be achieved, but also an interrupted operation of the pump can be achieved in order to reduce the operating time of the pump and thus in particular also to minimize noise generation. By means of the pressure sensor unit, a safety shutdown of the pressure supply unit can be achieved, but also an easy pressure regulation and shutdown operation of the pressure supply unit can be achieved. The pressure sensor unit can for example comprise a MEMS pressure sensor.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first member for fluid flow control and the second member for fluid flow control are designed such that the pressure loss through these members is less than or equal to 5% of the system pressure (the system pressure here corresponds to the ambient pressure, i.e. the pressure of the surroundings), because otherwise the hysteresis would depend too strongly on the system. Generally, the pressure loss should be very small. Compared to hydraulic systems, the pressure loss in pneumatic systems is often very small. The goal is to keep the pressure loss through the valve small compared to the working pressure so as not to limit the efficiency of the pump too strongly. Here, the pressure loss should not exceed 5% of the system pressure and should be chosen as small as possible. The advantage is that the efficiency and reliability of the pressure supply unit can thus be increased.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the first member and / or the second member for fluid flow control comprises a switching valve, in particular a two-way three-way valve. The advantage is that the target pressure level on the side can be variably set using the switching valve here, and the pressure supply unit can thus be used flexibly and can be adapted to the requirements of the connected or connectable system / load.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first member and / or the second member for fluid flow control comprises a check valve. The setting of the target pressure level in the respective circuit (i.e. on the respective side) is here achieved by the opening pressure of the spring of the relevant check valve. Here, instead of a switching valve, passive check valves are used for example for the two members, and their springs are designed such that: - if the vacuum pressure (first current pressure level) is below a critical pressure value of for example 400 mbarA, the spring opens on the first side (here: the low-pressure side or the vacuum side) (opening here means that the fluid on the first side can flow into the pressure supply unit from the surroundings), - if the high pressure (second current pressure level) is above a critical pressure value of for example 2500 mbarA, the spring opens on the second side (here: the high-pressure side) (opening here means that the fluid on the second side can leak into the surroundings).

[0022] The advantage is that it is thus possible to implement a pressure supply unit that is very simple in structure, which enables further cost reduction and complexity reduction. In particular, such an implementation can be selected if the first target pressure level and the second target pressure level are fixedly specified and should be set immutably, corresponding to a fixed operating point. The pressure range can be advantageously set fixedly in terms of hardware technology and very well specified by means of a check valve, which represents a robust solution.

[0023] The advantages of a method for providing a first target pressure level and a second target pressure level, especially in the case of using one of the above-mentioned pressure supply units, directly result from the advantages mentioned with respect to the pressure supply unit, wherein the first target pressure level and the second target pressure level are different from each other, and the method comprises the following method steps: - Providing the first target pressure level on the first side of the pressure supply unit by: ▪ If the first current pressure level on the first side is greater than the first target pressure level, a fluid flow from the first side of the pressure supply unit to the pump can be achieved, and ▪ If the first current pressure level on the first side is less than or equal to the first target pressure level, a fluid flow from the surroundings of the pressure supply unit to the pump can be achieved, - Providing the second target pressure level on the second side of the pressure supply unit by: ▪ If the second current pressure level on the second side is less than the second target pressure level, the fluid is transferred from the pump to the second side of the pressure supply unit, and ▪ If the second current pressure level on the second side is greater than or equal to the second target pressure level, the fluid is transferred from the pump to the surroundings of the pressure supply unit, Particularly advantageous here is that two different target pressure levels can be provided for the system / load piece by means of a pump, in particular a single pump, in such a way that the fluid flow is controlled according to the current pressure level, i.e. in other words the fluid flows through between the two sides of the pressure supply unit or between the ambient environment and the respective side according to the current pressure level, and thus the target pressure levels can be set on both sides without the use of an additional pump. The diversion / re-routing of the fluid flow according to the respective current pressure level is in particular achieved by means of a component for fluid flow control, which is connected to the pump, the ambient environment and an interface for connecting the load piece (such as a system or a subsystem, a microfluidic analysis system or a test module unit of a microfluidic analysis system, etc.) via a fluid line (also called a fluid channel) through which the fluid can flow. Furthermore, it is advantageous that in a state where the pressures before and after the pump are within the target pressure range, the pump does not have to operate and can, for example, operate only on demand-controlled basis. "On demand-controlled" here means that at least one of the target pressures is not within the limit.

[0024] The method can be implemented, for example, in software or hardware or in a hybrid form consisting of software and hardware, such as in a controller.

[0025] In one embodiment, when the first target pressure level is reached at the first side and the second target pressure level is reached at the second side, the pump of the pressure supply unit is switched off (= shutdown operation of the pressure supply unit) or the pump is kept running (= continuous operation of the pressure supply unit), where, in continuous operation, fluid is sucked in from the ambient environment and transferred to the ambient environment by means of the pump. Continuous operation is particularly meaningful if the proportion of this operating phase is very short in time compared to the other three operating modes (= generating high pressure, generating low pressure, generating high and low pressure), for example if the time proportion is less than 10% (t < 10%). Otherwise, it may be more efficient to operate the pump in shutdown mode.

[0026] A microfluidic analysis system can include a pressure supply unit according to one of the previously mentioned embodiments, or can be connected to such a pressure supply unit, in particular by connecting the fluid channel of the pressure supply unit to the fluid channel of the test module unit via an interface, in particular a pneumatic interface. By the connection, the test module unit is supplied with the first target pressure level and the second target pressure level that can be provided at the connection point / (pneumatic) interface of the pressure supply unit by the pressure supply unit.

[0027] The advantages of a pressure supply unit described above result in advantages for a microfluidic analysis system for performing sample analysis, which microfluidic analysis system includes a test module unit for sample reception for molecular diagnostic analysis, and which microfluidic analysis system includes: • A pressure supply unit for providing a first target pressure level and a second target pressure level according to one of the foregoing embodiments, • Peripheral components for performing molecular diagnostic analysis, and • A microfluidic element for sample transport in a test module unit, - wherein the microfluidic element of the test module unit can be manipulated by means of the first target pressure level and / or the second target pressure level, and - wherein the pressure supply unit is connected or can be connected to the test module unit via an interface.

[0028] The microfluidic analysis system is a pneumatic small appliance, especially a medical appliance.

[0029] An example of a microfluidic analysis system is the Vivalytic® platform (Robert Bosch GmbH, Robert Bosch Corporation), which is a general diagnostic platform using which various single or multiple tests can be performed in cartridges.

[0030] In a microfluidic analysis system for performing sample analysis, first, sample materials such as smears, blood, urine, etc. are treated using ultrasound. In this way, cell membranes are opened and DNA and RNA molecules are released. In the next step, they are filtered, replicated, and detected. Even the smallest amounts of DNA and RNA in the sample material can also be confirmed.

[0031] The microfluidic analysis system includes at least one test module unit, which includes all the necessary peripheral components for performing molecular diagnostic analysis. Such peripheral components can especially include, for example, the following components: a heating element, a cartridge insertion mechanism, a pneumatic manifold for distributing and manipulating valves, a clamping device for the cartridge, and a pressure vessel (i.e., a pneumatic reservoir) to be able to maintain a minimum amount of compressed air as a reserve, and / or an optical unit to be able to confirm the fluid reaction results inside the cartridge. The optical unit can be used for sample analysis, such as for performing fluorescence measurements on the sample, wherein the optical unit can especially include an optical sensor unit and a light source.

[0032] The test module is supplied with pressure (i.e., the first target pressure level and the second target pressure level) and generally does not include an internal solution for generating pressure, but only includes a connector / interface through which fluid under pressure, such as compressed air, can be supplied from the pressure supply unit. As an alternative, the pressure supply unit can be integrated into the test module, that is, especially firmly connected thereto.

[0033] The term "sample transport" can in particular be understood as the movement of samples, in particular sample liquids, within the test module unit. In other words, sample transport is in particular fluid transport.

[0034] Sample reception is achieved in the test module unit by inserting a cartridge into the test module unit, where the sample is first inserted into the cartridge. The sample within the cartridge is processed partially or fully automatically in the test module unit, for example for analyzing the sample, in particular for performing diagnostic tests. The sample is in particular a sample liquid.

[0035] Microfluidic elements are in particular microfluidic valves and (pump) chambers. At least two pressure levels, here the target pressure levels, are used for manipulating the microfluidic elements. In particular, the manipulation and provision of the target pressure levels are achieved by a pressure supply unit which has a pneumatic interface leading to the test module unit.

[0036] The test module unit can for example comprise one test module or a plurality of test modules which are supplied with a first target pressure level and a second target pressure level by the pressure supply unit. For this purpose, the test module unit can be fluidically connected or can be connected to the fluid lines on the first side and the second side of the pressure supply unit, in particular via connectors or pneumatic interfaces, at the first side and the second side. By using the pressure supply unit described above, it is possible to provide pressure supply for two different target pressure levels with only one pump, in particular a single pump.

[0037] In one embodiment, parallel manipulation of a plurality of test module units can be achieved by a common pressure supply unit according to one of the embodiments described above, and thus for example a rack solution (Rack-Lösung) can be achieved for a microfluidic analysis system. It can then be supplied as a whole or in multiple discrete units via the corresponding pressure supply.

[0038] For example, a vacuum of up to 200 mbarA is selected as the first target pressure level, and a pressure of up to 3000 mbarA is selected as the second target pressure level. In particular, the working range lies between 400 mbarA and 2600 mbarA of target pressure levels.

[0039] The microfluidic analysis system is supplied as a whole by the target pressure levels (that is to say, two target pressure levels are provided respectively to two test module units). An example of a microfluidic analysis system is a microfluidic analysis system which diagnoses a cartridge in the following way: the valves are manipulated respectively by two target pressure levels on the cartridge and thereby the liquid on the cartridge can be moved, guided, controlled and / or mixed. By using the pressure supply unit described above, there is advantageously a feasible solution to set two working pressures with only one pump and supply them to the cartridge.

[0040] The solution proposed here furthermore implements a controller configured to execute, control, or implement the steps of a variant of the method proposed here in a corresponding device or unit. Also by means of this implementation variant of the invention in the form of a controller, the object on which the invention is based can be achieved quickly and efficiently. For this purpose, the controller can have: at least one computing unit for processing signals or data; at least one memory unit for storing signals or data; at least one interface to a sensor or an actuator, which is used to read in the sensor signals of the sensor or to output control signals to the actuator; and / or at least one communication interface for reading in or outputting data. In the present context, the controller can be understood as an electrical appliance that processes sensor signals and, on the basis thereof, outputs control signals and / or data signals.

[0041] Also advantageous is a computer program product or a computer program having program code that can be stored on a machine-readable carrier or storage medium, such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk memory, or an optical memory, and that, in particular when the program product or the program is executed on a computer or a device, is used to carry out, implement, and / or control the steps of the method of one of the embodiments described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and are explained in more detail in the following description. Identical reference signs in the drawings denote identical or functionally identical elements.

[0043] wherein: Figure 1 shows a schematic structure of a pressure supply unit according to a first embodiment, Figure 2 shows a schematic structure of a pressure supply unit according to a second embodiment, Figure 3 shows a flow chart of a method for providing a first target pressure level and a second target pressure level, Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of a microfluidic analysis system according to a third embodiment, Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of a microfluidic analysis system according to a fourth embodiment, and Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of a microfluidic analysis system according to a fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] In Figure 1Fig. shows a schematic structure of a pressure supply unit 100 according to an embodiment, in particular the basic connection possibilities of a single-loop system solution. The pressure supply unit 100 includes a pump 103, which is arranged between a first side 1001 and a second side 1002 of the pressure supply unit 100. A first member 1071 for fluid flow control is arranged on the first side 1001 and a second member 1072 for fluid flow control is arranged on the second side 1002. They are connected to the pump 103, the surroundings 108 (or the muffler 104), and a first pneumatic interface 1081 (where a first target pressure level 1051 can be provided) and a second pneumatic interface 1082 (where a second target pressure level 1052 can be provided) or storage containers 1021, 1022 (which are respectively arranged between the interfaces 1081, 1082 and the valves 1071, 1072) through fluid channels. In Figure 1 , the first member 1071 for fluid flow control is constituted by an electrically actuated two-way three-way valve that is closed in the initial position and has a loaded mechanical spring for resetting. In Figure 1 , the second member 1072 for fluid flow control is constituted by an electrically actuated two-way three-way valve that is open in the initial position and has a loaded mechanical spring for resetting. These two two-way three-way valves are configured to alternately connect the pump 103 to the surroundings 108 of the pressure supply unit 100 through the muffler 104 and to the pneumatic interfaces (connections 1081, 1082) where the target pressure levels 1051, 1052 are provided. Through the pneumatic interfaces 1081, 1082, the system, in particular the microfluidic analysis system, is connected or can be connected to the pressure supply unit 100. The system can be supplied with a first target pressure level 1051 through the first connection 1081, and the system can be supplied with a second target pressure level 1052 through the second connection 1082.

[0045] The pump 103 can be configured, for example, as a diaphragm pump (which can be used not only for vacuum but also for high pressure in most standard embodiments), a fan, or a compressor. The pump 103 sucks in a fluid, such as indoor air, through a connected switching valve 1071 (here as a two-way three-way embodiment). In the illustration, the ambient pressure is sucked in during the operation of opening without current, so that the pump 103 functionally corresponds to the standard usage operation. The sucked-in fluid is compressed, and pressure can be built up in the storage container 1002 on the high-pressure side (corresponding to the second side 1002) and provided to the system, such as a microfluidic analysis system, without operating the valve 1072 (also a two-way three-way embodiment here) on the high-pressure side.

[0046] If the two valves 1071, 1072 are energized, the pump 103 operates as a standard vacuum pump in such a way that the pump sucks fluid from the system through the low-pressure connection 1081 to generate a negative pressure on the first side 1001 and discharges it into the surroundings 108 (here, the connection leading to the surroundings 108 is provided with a muffler 104). Memory volume spaces 1021, 1022 are provided on both sides of the pump 103 in order to increase the elasticity of the system and to buffer pressure peaks that may occur due to possible switching of the valves 1071, 1072, due to the start-up of the pump 103 or due to the design-determined pulsations of the pump. It is proposed here that, if only the pure elastic effect achieved by the storage containers 1021, 1022 is desired, a volume space of 5 - 10% of the volume flow at the design operating point is selected. If the storage function is also to be achieved by means of the pressure supply unit 100 (which is particularly important for shutdown operation), the volume space should be designed according to the components installed in the system, for example in a microfluidic analysis system connected to the pressure supply unit, and should be designed such that when the pump 103 is not operating, the system components can be supplied by the memories 1021, 1022 for their functions within 30 - 120 seconds. The pressure valves 1071, 1072 should generally be designed such that the pressure loss through the valves 1071, 1072 is small compared to the operating pressure, so as not to limit the efficiency of the pump 103 too severely. Here, this pressure loss should not exceed 5% of the system pressure and should be chosen as small as possible.

[0047] In order to monitor the pump, but also to implement an interruption or shutdown operation of the pump in order to reduce the operating time of the pump and thus minimize noise formation, pressure sensors 1062 and 1061 should be provided, enabling safe shutdown but also easy pressure regulation. In Figure 1 it, pressure sensor units 1061, 1062 are arranged on both sides 1001, 1002 respectively between the valves 1071, 1072 and the storage containers 1021, 1022 for monitoring the pressure, in particular for measuring the respective current pressure values.

[0048] The described operating modes for generating (standard) pressure or vacuum can be achieved using the shown situations and essentially correspond to a dual-circuit implementation (i.e., using pumps 103 respectively, in particular one pump each to provide each target pressure level, which in the current case corresponds to two pumps and thus is a dual-circuit implementation), where this dual-circuit implementation here essentially shares pumps 103 in the form of an X-shaped implementation. In this variant and operating form, the power range of pump 103 can be selected such that the pneumatic power corresponds to the maximum value from two sub-circuits (i.e., the first side 1011 and the second side 1002) and can meet the operation between target pressure levels 1051, 1052, for example, between a system pressure of 200 mbarA and 3000 mbarA.

[0049] In the proposed connection scheme, pump 103 can also operate combinatorially: If a pump with a sufficient power range is selected, the pump can simultaneously generate a low pressure as the first target pressure level 1051 and a high pressure as the second target pressure level 1052 in the corresponding valve positions (low-pressure valve 1071 energized, high-pressure valve 1072 not energized) and supply them to the system, such as a microfluidic analysis system. If neither of these two current pressure ranges is within the tolerance range around the target pressure value, i.e., they do not correspond to the respective target pressure levels 1051, 1052 (according to the regulation, e.g., target pressure + / - 100 mbar), the pump sucks in fluid from the low-pressure area, i.e., the first side 1001, thereby evacuating it, and directly feeds the gas volume into the high-pressure area, i.e., the second side 1002. If the target pressure level is reached in one of the sub-circuits, i.e., on one of the sides 1001, 1002, the corresponding valve 1071, 1072 on this side 1001, 1002 is switched to the ambient environment in order to suck in the conveyed fluid from the ambient environment (vacuum side 1001) or discharge it into the ambient environment (high-pressure side 1002) so as not to exceed or fall below the regulation limit. If both target pressure levels 1051, 1052 are reached, the pump (when operating as a continuously running pump) can be connected to the ambient environment through valves 1071, 1072 in the suction area and the pressure area, i.e., operate in the so-called idle mode. This is particularly meaningful if the proportion of this operating phase is very small (t < 10%) compared to the other three operating modes in terms of time. As an alternative, the pump can then operate in a shut-off operation. Here, the two pressure signals of the pressure sensor units 1061, 1062 should be incorporated into the decision-making of the operation because they are logically "OR" related. The following table shows the operating modes with the assigned valve control states (0 = not energized, 1 = energized):

[0050] In Figure 2 the schematic structure of a pressure supply unit 100 according to an embodiment is shown, which pressure supply unit is particularly Figure 1 distinguished from the embodiment shown therein in that here check valves 1011, 1012 are used instead of switching valves 1071, 1072 as components for controlling the fluid flow rate. With respect to Figure 1 the embodiment shown therein, a structurally simplified embodiment variant is involved here, which enables a further cost reduction and complexity reduction, and which can particularly be used if the working pressure level, i.e. the first target pressure level 1051 and the second target pressure level 1052, are fixedly specified and should be set immutably.

[0051] The pressure supply unit 100 includes a pump 103, which is arranged between a first side 1001 and a second side 1002 of the pressure supply unit 100. A first component 1071 for controlling the fluid flow rate is arranged on the first side 1001 and a second component 1072 for controlling the fluid flow rate is arranged on the second side 1002, which are connected via fluid channels to the pump 103, the surroundings 108 (or the muffler 104) and a first pneumatic interface 1081 (at which the first target pressure level 1051 can be provided) and a second pneumatic interface 1082 (at which the second target pressure level 1052 can be provided) or storage containers 1021, 1022 (which storage containers are respectively arranged between the interfaces 1081, 1082 and the valves 1071, 1072).

[0052] In Figure 2 the setting of the target pressure levels 1051, 1052 in the respective circuits, i.e. in the respective sides 1001, 1002, is achieved by the opening pressure of the springs of the relevant check valves 1011, 1012. Here passive check valves 1011, 1012 are used, and their springs are designed such that: • if the current pressure level on the first side 1001 is below a critical value of, for example, 300 mbar (i.e. below the first target pressure level 1051, in particular the target pressure value minus the tolerance range), then the spring opens on the vacuum side (here: the first side 1001), and • if the current pressure level is above a critical value of, for example, 2500 mbarA (i.e. above the second target pressure level, in particular the target pressure value plus the tolerance range), then the spring opens on the high-pressure side (here: the second side 1002).

[0053] If pressure sensors 1061, 1062 that allow adjustment are used, this implementation variant of the pressure supply can also be used during shutdown operation. Otherwise, the implementation is preferably suitable for the continuous operation of the pump 103. If the opening pressures of the check valves 1011, 1012 are known correspondingly, pressure monitoring (that is, Figure 2 the pressure sensor units 1061, 1062 therein, which are respectively arranged between the pump 103 and the storage containers 1021, 1022) can be omitted, thereby enabling further cost reduction. Then, the pump 103 should be operated in continuous operation to be able to maintain the target pressure levels 1051, 1052.

[0054] According to another embodiment, a two-way three-way valve 1071 can also be used as the first component, wherein, as can be derived from the description of Figure 1 to generate the first target pressure level 1051, and a check valve 1012 is used as the second component, wherein, as can be derived from the description of Figure 2 to generate the second target pressure level 1052. As an alternative, a check valve 1011 can also be used as the first component, wherein, as can be derived from the description of Figure 2 to generate the first target pressure level 1051, and a two-way three-way valve 1072 is used as the second component, wherein, as can be derived from the description of Figure 1 to generate the second target pressure level 1052. This can be particularly advantageous if one of the target pressure levels should be able to be set and the other target pressure level is fixedly pre-given.

[0055] Figure 3 A flowchart of a method 200 for providing a first target pressure 1051 and a second target pressure level 1052, especially when using a pressure supply unit 100 according to one of the previously described embodiments, is shown, wherein the first target pressure level 1051 and the second target pressure level 1052 are different from each other.

[0056] The first target pressure level 1051 is provided on the first side 1001, especially at the first joint 1081 of the pressure supply unit 100, as follows: According to the first current pressure level 1053, the fluid flow rate is controlled as follows: • Reduce the 2010 first current pressure level 1053 until the first target pressure level 1051 is reached: If the first current pressure level 1053 is greater than the 2012 first target pressure level 1051, the first members 1071, 1011 control the fluid flow rate such that the fluid sucked in by the pump 103 flows from the first connection 1081 to the pump 103. Thereby, the current pressure level 1053 at the first connection 1081 decreases until it reaches the first target pressure level 1051; • When the 2011 or lower first target pressure level 1051 is reached: If the first current pressure level 1053 is less than or equal to the 2013 first target pressure level 1051, the first members 1071, 1011 control the fluid flow rate such that the fluid flow from the first connection 1081 to the pump 103 is interrupted and, in particular, instead, the pump 103 is connected to the surroundings 108 so that the pump sucks in fluid from the surroundings 108.

[0057] The second target pressure level 1052 is provided on the second side 1002, in particular at the second connection 1082 of the pressure supply unit 100, as follows: Control the fluid flow rate according to the second current pressure level 1052 as follows: • Increase the 2020 second current pressure level 1054 until the second target pressure level 1052 is reached: If the second current pressure level 1054 on the second side 1002 is less than the 2014 second target pressure level 1052, the second members 1072, 1012 for fluid flow rate control control the fluid flow rate such that the fluid is guided from the pump 103 to the second connection 1082 • When the 2021 or lower second target pressure level 1052 is reached: If the current pressure level 1054 is greater than or equal to the 2015 second target pressure level 1052, the second members 1072, 1012 for fluid flow rate control control the fluid flow rate such that the fluid flow from the pump 103 to the second connection 1082 is interrupted and, in particular, instead, the pump 103 is connected to the surroundings so that the pump transfers fluid to the surroundings.

[0058] Optionally, when the target pressure levels of 2011 and 2021 are reached, instead of the previously described continuous operation in which the pump 103 sucks in fluid from the ambient environment 108 on the first side 1001 and discharges it to the ambient environment on the second side 1002, the shutdown operation 203 of the pressure supply unit can be started, in which the pump 103 is shut off. In particular, it is advantageous here to monitor the current pressure level by means of the pressure sensor units 1061, 1062, which provide a control signal when the pressure level is below at least one of the target pressure levels 1051, 1052, the control signal being suitable for ending the shutdown operation 203 by switching on the pump 103, or the control signal being suitable for outputting a warning to the user or to a system connected to the pressure supply unit 100.

[0059] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a microfluidic analysis system 300 for performing sample analysis is shown, the microfluidic analysis system including a test module unit 301 for receiving samples for molecular diagnostic analysis, wherein, in this embodiment, the test module unit 301 includes a test module 3001, and the microfluidic analysis system includes: • A pressure supply unit 100 for providing a first target pressure level 1051 and a second target pressure level 1052 as shown, for example, Figure 1 or Figure 2 as shown in • Peripheral components 305, 306, 307, 308 for performing molecular diagnostic analysis, and • Microfluidic elements 302, 303, 304 for transporting samples in the test module unit 3000.

[0060] In this embodiment, the peripheral components include an optical unit 305, which is set up, for example, to perform fluorescence measurements on the sample. The optical unit 305 can not only achieve illumination, but also optical excitation and detection of optical signals based on the sample. In addition, the peripheral components include, for example, an energy supply unit 306 in the form of a power supply element that provides an alternating voltage in particular, and a temperature control unit 307, which is set up to set the temperature in the test module unit, in particular by heating and / or cooling.

[0061] In addition, a mechanical unit 308 also belongs to the peripheral components, which can in particular achieve the reception of the cartridge 309 (for example, a clamping device for the cartridge 309), wherein the sample is introduced into the cartridge 309. Thus, the test module unit 301 is set up to receive samples. In addition, the mechanical unit 308 can achieve mechanical processing of the sample, such as, for example, rotation / centrifugation of the sample.

[0062] The microfluidic analysis system 300 can operate as follows: processing a sample, especially a liquid sample, within the test module 3001, or partially or fully automatically by inserting the cartridge 309 into the microfluidic analysis system 300. The partial or full automation of the sample processing can be achieved in particular by applying different pressure levels (first target pressure level and / or second target pressure levels 1051, 1052) to the test module 3001 via a suitable interface between the pressure supply unit 100 and the test module 3001.

[0063] First, the sample is input into the cartridge 309. In particular, the sample exists at least partially in liquid form, where the sample can especially include biological or medical substances, such as body fluids (e.g., blood, saliva, etc.).

[0064] The cartridge 309 in which the sample is located is input or inserted into the test module 3001 and connected to the test module through the interface required for processing the sample in the cartridge 309.

[0065] Now, the sample can be processed within the test module 3001. The processing can include the following steps according to the selected procedure: purification, lysis, and thermal cycling of the liquid, such as, for example, a PCR procedure for verifying a specific virus strain, etc.

[0066] After processing, the cartridge 309 can be removed from the test module, and the analysis result of the sample can be output by the microfluidic analysis system, for example, through an optical display, and / or transmitted to another device, such as a printer or a mobile terminal device, through a communication interface.

[0067] The pressure supply unit 100 is connected or can be connected to the test module unit 301 through the interface 302.

[0068] The microfluidic elements 302, 303, 304 of the test module unit 3000 can be controlled by means of the first target pressure level 1051 and / or the second target pressure level 1052. In this embodiment, the microfluidic elements include: a pneumatic manifold 303 for distributing and controlling valves; and pressure vessels 304 (i.e., pneumatic memories 1021, 1022) to be able to maintain a minimum amount of compressed air as a reserve; and an external interface 302. As an alternative or supplement, the pressure supply unit 100 can include pneumatic memories 1021, 1022.

[0069] In Figure 5 a schematic diagram of the microfluidic analysis system 300 is shown, which forms a small parallel system 300`, where the test module unit 301 includes three test modules 3001, 3002, 3003 here. The test modules are as Figure 4constructed in the same way as the test modules in []. Each of the test modules 3001, 3002, 3003 in the test module unit is connected or connectable to the pressure supply unit 100 through its pneumatic interface 302 respectively. Therefore, each of the test modules in the test module unit is supplied with the first target pressure level 1051 and the second target pressure level 1052 in parallel with the other test modules.

[0070] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the microfluidic analysis system 300 is shown, which forms a small parallel system 300``. Here, the test module unit 301 includes nine test modules 3001, 3002, 3003. The nine test modules are divided into three test module units 301, and each test module unit includes three test modules 3001, 3002, 3003. The pressure supply unit 100 supplies the first target pressure level 1051 and the second target pressure level 1052 to three small parallel systems 300` constructed similarly to the small parallel system 300` shown in [] in parallel respectively. Figure 5 the three small parallel systems 300` supplied with the first target pressure level 1051 and the second target pressure level 1052 in parallel respectively.

Claims

1. A pressure supply unit (100) for providing a first target pressure level (1051) and a second target pressure level (1051) to a microfluidic analysis system, wherein, The first target pressure level (1051) and the second target pressure level (1052) are different from each other, and the pressure supply unit includes: - A pump (103) for sucking fluid, - A first member (1011, 1071) for fluid flow control, the first member ▪ Being arranged on a first side (1001) of the pump (103), and ▪ For • If a first current pressure level (1053) on the first side (1001) is greater than the first target pressure level (1051), enabling fluid flow from the first side (1001) of the pressure supply unit (100) to the pump (103), and • If the first current pressure level (1053) on the first side (1001) is less than or equal to the first target pressure level (1051), enabling fluid flow from the surroundings (108) of the pressure supply unit (100) to the pump (103), And thus being configured to provide the first target pressure level (1051) on the first side (1001) of the pressure supply unit (100), and - A second member (1012, 1072) for fluid flow control, the second member ▪ Being arranged on a second side (1002) of the pump (103), and ▪ For • If a second current pressure level (1054) on the second side (1002) is less than the second target pressure level (1052), enabling fluid flow from the pump (103) to the second side (1002) of the pressure supply unit (100), and • If the second current pressure level (1054) on the second side (1002) is greater than or equal to the second target pressure level (1052), enabling fluid flow from the pump (103) to the surroundings (108) of the pressure supply unit (100), And thus being configured to provide the second target pressure level (1052) on the second side (1002) of the pressure supply unit (100).

2. The pressure supply unit (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first member (1011, 1071) for fluid flow control is connected to a first memory volume space (1021), in particular a first fluid memory, and / or the second member (1012, 1072) for fluid flow control is connected to a second memory volume space (1022), in particular a second fluid memory.

3. The pressure supply unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first target pressure level (1051) and the second target pressure level (1052) have values of 200 mbarA, 3000 mbarA or values within the range of 200 mbarA to 3000 mbarA system pressure.

4. The pressure supply unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A pressure sensor unit (1061, 1062) for pressure regulation and / or for controlling a safety shutdown is arranged at the first side (1001) and / or the second side (1002).

5. The pressure supply unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first member (1011, 1071) for fluid flow control and the second member (1012) for fluid flow control are designed such that the pressure loss through these members (1011, 1012, 1072) is less than or equal to 5% of the system pressure.

6. The pressure supply unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first member (1011, 1071) and / or the second member (1012, 1072) for fluid flow control includes a switching valve, in particular a two-way three-way valve.

7. The pressure supply unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first member (1011, 1071) and / or the second member (1012, 1072) for fluid flow control includes a check valve (1011, 1012).

8. A method (200) for providing a first target pressure level (1051) and a second target pressure level (1052), especially in the case of using a pressure supply unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first target pressure level (1051) and the second target pressure level (1052) are different from each other, and the method includes the following method steps: - Providing (201) the first target pressure level (1051) on the first side (1001) of the pressure supply unit (100) by: ▪ If the first current pressure level (1053) on the first side (1001) is greater than the first target pressure level (1051), then a fluid flow from the first side (1001) of the pressure supply unit (100) to the pump (103) can be achieved, and ▪ If the first current pressure level (1053) on the first side (1001) is less than the first target pressure level (1051) or equal to the first target pressure level (1051), then a fluid flow from the surroundings (108) of the pressure supply unit (100) to the pump (103) can be achieved, - Providing (202) the second target pressure level (1052) on the second side (1002) of the pressure supply unit (100) by: ▪ If the second current pressure level (1054) on the second side (1002) is less than the second target pressure level (1052), then transferring the fluid from the pump (103) to the second side (1002) of the pressure supply unit (100), and ▪ If the second current pressure level (1054) on the second side (1002) is greater than the second target pressure level (1052) or equal to the second target pressure level (1052), then transferring the fluid from the pump (103) to the surroundings (108) of the pressure supply unit (100).

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein When the first target pressure level (1051) is reached at the first side (1001) and the second target pressure level (1052) is reached at the second side (1002), the pump (103) of the pressure supply unit (100) is switched off or the pump (103) is continued to operate, wherein, when continuing to operate, the fluid is sucked in from the surroundings and transferred to the surroundings by means of the pump (103).

10. A microfluidic analysis system (300) for performing sample analysis, comprising a test module unit (301) for receiving a sample for molecular diagnostic analysis, wherein, The test module unit (301) includes one test module (3001) or multiple test modules (3001, 3002, 3003), and the microfluidic analysis system includes: • A pressure supply unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, for providing a first target pressure level (1051) and a second target pressure level (1052), • Peripheral components (305, 306, 307, 308) for performing molecular diagnostic analysis, and • Microfluidic elements (302, 303, 304) for sample transportation in the test module unit (301), - wherein the microfluidic elements (302, 303, 304) of the test module unit (301) can be manipulated by means of the first target pressure level (1051) and / or the second target pressure level (1052), and - wherein the pressure supply unit (100) is connected or can be connected to the test module unit (301) through an interface (302).

11. The microfluidic analysis system (300) according to claim 10, wherein, The microfluidic analysis system (300) includes two or more test module units (301, 300´), and these test module units can be manipulated in parallel by the pressure supply unit (100).

12. A controller configured to implement and / or manipulate the steps of the method (200) according to any one of claims 8 or 9 in a corresponding unit.

13. A computer program configured to implement and / or manipulate the steps of the method (200) according to any one of claims 8 or 9.

14. A machine-readable storage medium having stored thereon the computer program according to claim 13.

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