Frame member

Abstract

A frame member (1) configured to be attached to an array plate (8) includes: a bank member (2) arranged to surround a predetermined area (81) on one surface of the array plate (8) and having an opening (21) for containing a liquid; a sealing member (3) disposed between the one surface of the array plate (8) and the bank member (2); and a clamping member (4) in contact with the other surface of the array plate (8) to support the array plate (8) and to detachably support the bank member (2), where the bank member (2) has a first position reference (231), the first position reference is configured to be in contact with an end surface (82) at one end of the array plate (8) in the longitudinal direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a frame member attached to an array panel. Background Art

[0002] Array plates are known in which a large number of biological substances (such as proteins, peptides and nucleic acids) are fixed to a substrate in a dotted manner. Array plates are also referred to as protein arrays, peptide arrays, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) arrays, etc. By using array plates, the biological substances fixed on the substrate can react with substances in the sample, and the interaction between them can be observed simultaneously. This allows for a comprehensive analysis of the interaction with a large number of substances, including samples derived from organisms, such as blood, cell extracts, saliva, and interstitial fluid.

[0003] As a method for measuring a sample using an array plate, a method is known in which points where an interaction of interest has occurred are selectively fluorescently labeled to obtain optical information. As an apparatus for observing a fluorescently labeled sample, for example, a confocal laser microscope is known.

[0004] Reference List

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0171043

[0007] Non-patent literature

[0008] Non-patent document 1: The website is<http: / / www.phoenixsci.co.jp / products / chamberslide.html> "Chamber slides" on the website Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] When measuring a sample using an array plate, a reaction process can be performed in which a liquid reagent is supplied to and discharged from the biological substance on the array plate, and a measurement process can be performed in which the biological substance after the reaction is optically measured. In order to reduce the burden on operators during the reaction and measurement processes, inspection equipment is currently being developed that generates the desired interaction in the biological substance on the array plate and then measures the biological substance after the reaction. The array plate used in such inspection equipment needs to have a structure for accommodating the liquid reagent used to trigger the reaction and is capable of optically observing the substance after the reaction.

[0011] As an example of an inspection tool having such a structure, a chamber slide for cell culture is known.

[0012] For example, the chamber slide discussed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0171043 prevents leakage of reagents from a reagent holding member by combining a bottom plate constituting the bottom surface of the reagent holding member with a bank member constituting the side surface of the reagent holding member. The member constituting the slide is made of a plastic material exhibiting low birefringence and has autofluorescence characteristics similar to a cover glass, and can be used for fluorescence observation.

[0013] In addition, the URL is<http: / / www.phoenixsci.co.jp / products / chamberslide.html> The "Chamber Slide" section on the website discusses a configuration in which a sealing member and a chamber member are superimposed on a slide glass and compressed and clamped by snap-fit elements of a base portion placed on the lower surface of the slide glass, thereby forming a liquid-tight retaining member. An opening is provided on the bottom surface of the base portion to enable microscopic observation from the back of the slide glass.

[0014] The chamber part has a rectangular frame member located inside the glass surface of the slide glass, and inner walls that partition an area surrounded by the frame member into a plurality of chamber compartments.

[0015] Some biological substances to be observed are easily denatured by heat or chemicals. The chamber slide discussed in US Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0171043 cannot be applied to an array plate containing biological substances because the bank member and the bottom plate are bonded by adhesive or heat.

[0016] The amount of biological material on the array plate is very small. Therefore, if an external force is applied, the biological material will easily peel off from the surface of the array plate to be inspected. Therefore, when attaching the seal or chamber to the array plate, it is necessary to avoid contact between these components and the biological material.<http: / / www.phoenixsci.co.jp / products / chamberslide.html> When the structure of the chamber slide discussed in "Chamber Slide" on the website is applied to an array plate, the chamber is placed on the array plate for assembly, so during the assembly process, the chamber may be accidentally dropped onto biological matter.

[0017] The present invention is proposed in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to improve the ease of attaching a frame member to an array panel.

[0018] Solution to the problem

[0019] According to the present invention, a frame member configured to be attached to an array plate includes: a dam member, which is arranged to surround a predetermined area on one surface of the array plate and has an opening for accommodating liquid; a sealing member, which is arranged between the one surface of the array plate and the dam member; and a clamping member, which contacts the other surface of the array plate to support the array plate and detachably supports the dam member, wherein the dam member has a first position reference, which is configured to contact an end surface located at one end of the array plate along the long side direction.

[0020] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0021] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the ease with which a frame member can be attached to an array panel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 It is a diagram schematically showing the internal structure of the inspection device.

[0023] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the frame member in the first exemplary embodiment.

[0024] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the array plate.

[0025] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the embankment member in the first exemplary embodiment.

[0026] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the embankment member in the first exemplary embodiment.

[0027] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the sealing member in the first exemplary embodiment.

[0028] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the clamping member in the first exemplary embodiment.

[0029] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 is a top view of the clamping member in the first exemplary embodiment.

[0030] [ Figure 9 ] Figure 9 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG.

[0031] [ Figure 10A ] Figure 10A is a perspective view of the frame member and the array plate in the first exemplary embodiment.

[0032] [ Figure 10B ] Figure 10B is a perspective view of the frame member and the array plate in the first exemplary embodiment.

[0033] [ Figure 11 ] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the dam member, the sealing member, the array plate, and the clamping member in the first exemplary embodiment.

[0034] [ Figure 12 ] Figure 12 It is along Figure 10A A cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG.

[0035] [ Figure 13 ] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a sealing member in a second exemplary embodiment.

[0036] [ Figure 14 ] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a dam member in the second exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Hereinafter, preferred exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] [First exemplary embodiment]

[0039] In the following exemplary embodiments, the application of the frame member of the present invention to an inspection device is described as an example, wherein the inspection device is used to perform a reaction process and a measurement process. In the reaction process, liquid reagents are supplied to and discharged from biological substances on an array plate, and in the measurement process, the biological substances after the reaction are optically measured.

[0040] <Inspect Equipment>

[0041] Figure 1 1 is a diagram schematically showing the internal structure of the inspection apparatus 10 viewed from the top.

[0042] The inspection apparatus 10 is used to perform a reaction process and a measurement process on the array plate 8 to which the frame member 1 is attached (hereinafter also referred to as the framed array plate 8 ).

[0043] The array board 8 with a frame is placed on a bracket 11. The bracket 11 is provided with a rocking mechanism that can be rocked. The bracket 11 is placed on a workbench 14 that can be moved in the X direction by an actuator 13. The bracket 11 is provided with positioning pins (not shown), and the positioning pins are inserted into through holes 56 and 57 provided in the frame member 1, as described below. This allows the array board 8 with a frame to be retained on the bracket 11 even when a rocking or moving operation is performed. The bracket 11 also includes a temperature control block 12 that is in thermal contact with the array board 8 with a frame placed on the bracket 11.

[0044] In the inspection apparatus 10, a discharge area 15 (in which liquid reagents are discharged from the framed array plate 8) and a liquid supply area 16 (in which liquid reagents are supplied during the reaction step) are arranged to be aligned along the X direction. When discharging the liquid reagent, the actuator 13 is driven to move the worktable 14 so that the framed array plate 8 to be discharged is located within the discharge area 15. When supplying the liquid reagent, the actuator 13 is driven to move the worktable 14 so that the framed array plate 8 to be supplied with the liquid reagent is located within the liquid supply area 16.

[0045] Furthermore, in the inspection apparatus 10, the relay area 17 is arranged to be aligned with the liquid supply area 16 in the X direction. The framed array plate 8 that has undergone the reaction process is moved to the relay area 17 by the actuator 13 and is handed over to the transfer hand 18 that moves in the Y direction. The framed array plate 8 that has been handed over to the transfer hand 18 is then moved in the Y direction by the transfer hand 18 and transferred to the measurement area 19. The measurement process is then performed in the measurement area 19. The transfer hand 18 can be configured to be able to transfer the framed array plate 8 even within the measurement area 19. Transferring the framed array plate 8 to be measured within the measurement area 19 by the transfer hand 18 enables scanning in the Y direction during the measurement process.

[0046] The measurement system 20 is a confocal laser microscope and includes an illumination optical system, a fluorescence detection optical system, and a two-dimensional scanning system, none of which are shown in the figure. The illumination optical system has the function of focusing the laser beam and emitting it onto the object to be observed. The fluorescence detection optical system has the function of detecting the amount of fluorescence from the points marked with the fluorescent probe. The two-dimensional scanning system has the function of performing a two-dimensional scan of the array plate or optical system to obtain a fluorescence image of the points on the array plate. In the inspection device 10, the two-dimensional scanning system is arranged below the framed array plate 8 to perform reciprocating scanning in the X direction.

[0047] A two-dimensional fluorescent image of the dot area on the framed array plate 8 can be obtained by combining reciprocating scanning (main scanning) in the X direction by the operating system and scanning (sub-scanning) in the Y direction by the transfer hand 18. The transfer hand 18 has a forked shape and, when viewed from below, holds the array plate 8 without overlapping the dot area and without interfering with the measurement of the entire dot area.

[0048] <Frame member>

[0049] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the frame member 1 and the array plate 8 as viewed obliquely from above.

[0050] like Figure 2 As shown, the array plate 8 has a generally rectangular plate shape with a predetermined length-to-width ratio (aspect ratio), and has a dot region 81 containing a plurality of dots on one surface (surface to be inspected 8A). The dot region 81 is arranged near one end of the array plate 8 along the longitudinal direction. The array plate 8 has an extension member at the other end along the longitudinal direction, on which an identifier (not shown) for identifying each plate by a unique serial number or the like is provided. The identifier is arranged in an area that does not overlap with the dot region.

[0051] In this specification, the X axis is parallel to the short side direction of the array plate 8 , the Y axis is parallel to the long side direction, and the Z axis is perpendicular to the X axis and the Y axis.

[0052] The array plate 8 has an end surface 82 at one end side close to the dot region 81 in the long side direction (Y direction). With respect to the positive and negative signs of the Y direction, that is, the positive and negative directions of the Y axis, the direction from the dot region 81 to the side having the end surface 82 is set to be positive. The positive direction of the Y axis corresponds to the direction in which the end surface 82 is closer to the first position reference 231 when the array plate 8 is in contact with the first position reference 231 of the embankment member 2. In other words, the positive direction of the Y axis corresponds to the direction in which the array plate 8 is inserted into the embankment member 2 when the frame member 1 is assembled to the array plate.

[0053] The array plate 8 has a pair of parallel side surfaces 83 extending in the short side direction (X direction) to sandwich the dot area 81. Regarding the positive and negative signs of the Z direction, that is, the positive and negative directions of the Z axis, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, in an upright arrangement with the dot area 81 facing upward in the vertical direction, the direction from the back surface 8B toward the surface to be inspected 8A is set to positive. Figure 2 As shown, the positive direction of the X axis corresponds to the direction in which a right-hand thread advances when turning rightward from the Y axis toward the Z axis. A right-hand thread corresponds to a clockwise rotation when viewed from the negative direction to the positive direction of the X axis.

[0054] The vertical upward direction and downward direction may be referred to as the direction opposite to the direction of gravity and the direction of gravity, respectively. When the array plate 8 is upright, the surface facing the positive direction of the Z axis will be referred to as the surface to be inspected, and the surface facing the negative direction will be referred to as the back surface. The positive direction of the Y axis will be referred to as the backward direction, and the negative direction of the Y axis will be referred to as the forward direction. The positive direction of the X axis will be referred to as the right direction, and the negative direction of the X axis will be referred to as the left direction. The positive direction of the Z axis will be referred to as the upward direction, and the negative direction of the Z axis will be referred to as the downward direction.

[0055] The surface to be inspected 8A may alternatively be referred to as the front surface 8A, the upper surface 8A, or the inspection target surface 8A. Similarly, the back surface 8B may alternatively be referred to as the rear surface 8B or the lower surface 8B.

[0056] The upright arrangement of the array plate 8 corresponds to an arrangement in which the surface to be inspected 8A faces upward in the vertical direction. The inverted arrangement of the array plate 8 corresponds to an arrangement in which the surface to be inspected 8A faces downward in the vertical direction. For the bank member 2, the sealing member 3, and the clamping member 4, regions in the Z direction, such as the front and rear surfaces and the upper and lower surfaces, can be specified based on the upright arrangement of the array plate 8.

[0057] The frame member 1 has the sealing part 3 which is closed in the circumferential direction because the dam part 2 and the front surface of the array plate 8 having the dot areas 81 form a liquid-tight contact surface which is closed in the circumferential direction.

[0058] When the frame member 1 is attached to the array plate 8 and stores a predetermined liquid therein, the liquid forms a waterline at a position corresponding to the liquid level on the embankment member 2. The embankment member 2 is in liquid-tight contact with the array plate 8 via the sealing member 3 closed in the circumferential direction, thereby retaining the liquid on the front side of the array plate 8.

[0059] When the frame member 1 is attached to the array plate 8, the height of the embankment part is determined according to the height direction of the embankment part 2, which corresponds to the thickness direction of the array plate 8. The height of the embankment part corresponds to Figure 2 The Z direction in .

[0060] The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis of the dam member 2 , the sealing member 3 , and the clamping member 4 are the same as those of the array plate 8 .

[0061] The frame member 1 includes a dam member 2 , a sealing member 3 , and a clamping member 4 .

[0062] The bank member 2 is formed of a rectangular frame and has an opening 21 at its center for receiving a liquid reagent. The opening 21 is arranged to surround a spot area 81 on the surface to be inspected of the array plate 8.

[0063] The sealing member 3 is arranged between the surface to be detected of the array plate 8 and the embankment member 2. The sealing member 3 has an opening 31 corresponding to the opening 21 of the embankment member 2 and connects the embankment member 2 and the array plate 8 around the openings 21 and 31 in a liquid-tight manner.

[0064] The clamping member 4 contacts the back surface 8B of the array plate 8 to support the array plate 8 and also detachably supports the dike member 2. When the frame member 1 is attached to the array plate 8, the dike member 2, the sealing member 3 and the array plate 8 are compressed and clamped as described below.

[0065] <Array Board>

[0066] Will refer to Figure 3 The array board 8 will be described.

[0067] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the array plate 8 in an upright position.

[0068] Array plate 8 has a rectangular glass slide as a substrate, and is provided with a dot region 81 on its surface 8A to be inspected. Dot region 81 is a region having a plurality of dots at which biological material serving as a sample is fixed. Dot region 81 is arranged at a certain distance from the end and side surfaces of array plate 8, and the area surrounding dot region 81 serves as a contact area with seal member 3 when frame member 1 is attached.

[0069] The array plate 8 has an aspect ratio and extends in the long and short side directions. The array plate 8 has a generally rectangular shape having a generally rectangular main surface. The end surfaces 82, 82' in the long side direction and the side surfaces 83, 83' in the short side direction correspond to the peripheral edges of the array plate 8. The end surfaces 82, 82' and the side surfaces 83, 83' can be formed to be generally perpendicular to the main surface with the largest area among the six surfaces of the array plate 8 regarded as a rectangular parallelepiped. The transition portion between the end surfaces 82, 82', the side surfaces 83, 83' and the main surface can have a transition portion that convexes outwards in order to prevent breakage, peeling, etc. Similarly, the end surfaces 82, 82' and the side surfaces 83, 83' can have a transition portion that convexes outwards along Figure 3 A cross section protruding outward in the X direction or Y direction.

[0070] <Embankment parts>

[0071] Will refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The bank member 2 will be described.

[0072] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of the dike member 2 in an upright position.

[0073] The bank member 2 is formed of a rectangular frame and has an opening 21 at its center for accommodating a liquid reagent. The opening 21 is larger (wider in area) than the spot area 81 of the array plate 8 and is arranged to surround the spot area 81. In other words, the main body of the bank member 2 does not overlap with the spot area 81.

[0074] The embankment member 2 is formed with concave portions 22 on both sides of the upper side (positive side in the Z direction) of the long side embankment member extending in the Y direction. The concave portions 22 constitute fitting receiving portions into which the convex portions 73 of the fitting portion 7 of the clamping member 4 are fitted, as described below.

[0075] Figure 5 It is a perspective view of the dike member 2 in an inverted position.

[0076] The lower surface (the surface on the negative side in the Z direction) of the embankment member 2 has a convex portion 23 extending in the Y direction along a pair of parallel long side embankment portions and in the direction along the positive side in the Y direction of the X-direction embankment portion extending in the X direction. The lower surface (the surface on the negative side in the Z direction) of the convex portion 23 constitutes a lower surface 234 that contacts the clamping member 4. The inner side surface 231 of the convex portion 23 on the positive side in the Y direction contacts the end surface 82 of the array plate 8, thereby serving as a first position reference for positioning the array plate 8 in the long side direction. The inner side surface 232 of the convex portion 23 extending in the Y direction contacts the corresponding side surface of the side surface 88 of the array plate 8, thereby serving as a second position reference for positioning the array plate 8 in the short side direction. The distance between the left and right side surfaces 232 is greater than the short side length of the array plate 8 and the sealing member 3, and the array plate 8 and the sealing member 3 can be mounted between the side surfaces 232. The first position reference 231 and the second position reference 232 in this exemplary embodiment are both planes parallel to the Z direction, but may alternatively have a tapered or R-shaped cross-section that is partially inclined relative to the Z direction. The first position reference 231 and the second position reference 232 may each have a protrusion (not shown) that protrudes in the Y direction and the X direction, respectively, so as to partially contact the end surface 82 and the side surface 83 of the array plate 8. The protrusion may also be provided as two protrusions spaced apart from each other on the side surface along which the convex portion 23 extends.

[0077] The dam member 2 also has on its lower surface a convex portion 27 along the outer edge of the opening 21. The convex portion 27 is adapted to contact the sealing member 3 as will be described below.

[0078] The embankment member 2 has a notch 28 formed at the left front corner of its lower surface and has a left-facing arcuate side surface 281. As will be described below, the embankment member 2 and the clamping member 4 can be positioned by contacting the positioning pin 55 of the clamping member 4 with the side surface 281.

[0079] <Sealing Parts>

[0080] Will refer to Figure 6 The sealing member 3 is described.

[0081] Figure 6 It is a perspective view of the sealing member 3 in an upright position.

[0082] The sealing member 3 is made of an elastic member such as rubber and has a rectangular thin plate shape. The sealing member 3 has an opening 31 at its center.

[0083] The opening 31 has a shape similar to, but slightly smaller than, the convex portion 27 on the outer edge of the opening 21 of the embankment member 2. When the frame member 1 is assembled, the convex portion 27 contacts the periphery of the opening 31 of the sealing member 3.

[0084] Similar to the opening 21 of the bank member 2, the opening 31 is larger than the dot area 81 of the array plate 8 and is arranged to surround the dot area 81. That is, the main body of the sealing member 3 does not overlap with the dot area 81.

[0085] Next, the thickness of the sealing member 3 will be described. The thickness D of the sealing member 3 is designed to satisfy D>d, where the distance between the convex portion 27 and the inspection surface 8A of the array plate 8 on which the embankment member 2 is placed (in the case where the sealing member 3 is not interposed between the array plate 8 and the embankment member 2) is represented by d. Therefore, when the embankment member 2, the sealing member 3, and the array plate 8 are pressed and clamped, the convex portion 27 bites into the sealing member 3, thereby ensuring liquid-tightness (see Figure 12 ).

[0086] <Clamping parts>

[0087] Will refer to Figures 7 to 10A and Figure 10B The clamping member 4 is described.

[0088] Figure 7 It is a perspective view of the clamping member 4 in an upright position.

[0089] The clamping part 4 includes a thin plate-shaped base part 5, a support part 6 provided on the left and right sides of the base part 5, and a fitting part 7 supported by the support part 6. The upper surface 58 of the base part 5 is in contact with the lower surface 234 of the embankment part 2 and the back surface 8B of the array plate 8. The support part 6 rotatably supports the fitting part 7. The fitting part 7 includes a convex part 73. The convex part 73 is arranged at a position capable of fitting into the concave part 22 of the embankment part 2 when the frame member 1 is assembled. The fitting part 7 is capable of moving between a fixed state in which the convex part 73 is fitted into the concave part 22 and a non-fixed state in which the convex part 73 is released from fitting into the concave part 22. Then, when the frame member 1 is assembled and the convex part 73 of the fitting part 7 is fitted into the concave part 22 (see Figure 8 、 Figure 10A and Figure 10B ), the embankment part 2, the sealing part 3 and the array plate 8 are pressed and held between the upper surface 58 of the base part 5 and the convex part 73.

[0090] Figure 8 A top view of the clamping member 4 is shown in an upright position.

[0091] An opening 51 is formed at the center of the base portion 5, and the opening 51 is larger than the dot area 81 of the array plate 8. Using this opening 51, the entire dot area 81 can be optically measured from the back surface 8B side of the array plate 8 with the frame member 1 attached to the array plate 8.

[0092] The base portion 5 has pins on the upper surface 58 for positioning the embankment member 2 .

[0093] The base portion 5 has a first positioning pin 53 provided on the left rear side (negative side in the X-axis direction, positive side in the Y-axis direction) of the upper surface 58. The base portion 5 also has a second positioning pin 54 provided on the right rear side (positive side in the X-axis direction, positive side in the Y-axis direction) of the upper surface 58, which is spaced apart from the first positioning pin 53. The first positioning pin 53 and the second positioning pin 54 are arranged at the same position in the Y direction. By bringing the end surface 233 on the rear side (positive side in the Y-axis direction) of the embankment member 2 into contact with the positioning pins 53, 54, the embankment member 2 and the clamping member 4 can be positioned in the Y direction. As described above, the positioning structure for positioning the embankment member 2 and the clamping member 4 in the long side direction (Y direction) of the array plate 8 constitutes the third position reference 53, 54.

[0094] The base portion 5 also has a third positioning pin 55 provided on the left front side (negative side in the X-axis direction and negative side in the Y-axis direction) of the upper surface 58. When the end surface 233 on the rear side (positive side in the Y-axis direction) of the embankment member 2 contacts the positioning pins 53 and 54, a portion of the side surface 281 of the embankment member 2 contacts the third positioning pin 55. Thus, the embankment member 2 and the clamping member 4 can be positioned in the X-direction. As described above, the positioning structure for positioning the embankment member 2 and the clamping member 4 in the short-side direction of the array plate 8 constitutes the fourth position reference 55.

[0095] The upper surface 58 of the base portion 5 is larger than the lower surface 234 of the embankment member 2, and by bringing the lower surface 234 of the embankment member 2 into contact with the upper surface of the base portion 5, the embankment member 2 and the clamping member 4 can be positioned in the Z direction. As described above, the positioning structure for positioning the embankment member 2 and the clamping member 4 in the thickness direction (Z direction) of the array plate 8 constitutes the fifth position reference 58. The third position references 53, 54, the fourth position reference 55, and the fifth position reference 58 are corresponding position references for the embankment member 2. The third to fifth position references (not shown) for positioning the base portion 5 (which is an element of the clamping member 4) can be provided on the embankment member 2 instead of on the base portion 5.

[0096] Base portion 5 has a circular hole 56 and an elongated hole 57, both of which are through-holes into which the positioning pins of bracket 11 are inserted. Circular hole 56 is arranged outside first positioning pin 53, and elongated hole 57 is arranged diagonally of base portion 5 relative to circular hole 56. When the positioning pins of bracket 11 are inserted into circular hole 56 and elongated hole 57, base portion 5 can be positioned relative to bracket 11 in the X and Y directions.

[0097] Figure 9 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG.

[0098] The support portion 6 and the mating portion 7 have through-holes 61 and 71 extending in the Y direction, respectively. A rotational shaft 62 is inserted into the through-holes 61 and 71. Both ends of the rotational shaft 62 are supported by the support portion 6, and the mating portion 7 is rotatable about the rotational shaft 62. E-rings 63 are provided on both ends of the rotational shaft 62 to prevent the rotational shaft 62 from falling off.

[0099] The support portion 6 includes a plunger 65 for determining the rotation angle of the mating portion 7. The plunger 65 is inserted into a through-hole 64 formed in the support portion 6 and is fixed to the support portion 6 by a set screw 67 inserted into a screw hole 66 provided to intersect with the through-hole 64. In addition, a tapered concave portion 72 is provided on the side surface of the mating portion 7 so as to pass through the center of the through-hole 64 and engage with the tip of the plunger 65.

[0100] Figure 10A and Figure 10B It is a perspective view of the sealing member 3 , the array plate 8 and the embankment member 2 being placed upright and held on the clamping member 4 .

[0101] When the fitting portion 7 is rotated in a direction approaching the embankment member 2, the convex portion 73 is fixed in place and fits into the concave portion 22, as shown in FIG. Figure 10AIn this state, the embankment member 2, the sealing member 3, and the array plate 8 are compressed and held between the upper surface 58 of the base portion 5 and the lower surface of the convex portion 73, and friction is generated between the lower surface of the convex portion 73 and the upper surface of the concave portion 22. This friction maintains the rotation angle of the mating portion 7, preventing the array plate 8 from falling off the frame member 1 even if it is shaken or transported.

[0102] On the other hand, when a force greater than the friction force is applied to the fitting portion 7 in a direction away from the embankment member 2, as shown in FIG. Figure 10B As shown, the male portion 73 is disengaged from the female portion 22 , thereby producing a non-fixed state in which the male portion 73 and the female portion 22 are disengaged.

[0103] In this way, the clamping member 4 can be easily attached to and detached from the embankment member 2 without using any special tools.

[0104] <Assembly of frame members>

[0105] Next, we will refer to Figure 11 The assembly process of the frame member 1 will be described.

[0106] Figure 11 It is a perspective view of the embankment member 2, the sealing member 3, the array plate 8 and the clamping member 4 in an inverted position.

[0107] In order to assemble the frame member 1 , first, the embankment member 2 is turned upside down so that the lower surface of the embankment member 2 faces the top of the inspection device 10 .

[0108] Next, the sealing member 3 is placed on the embankment member 2 so that the convex portion 27 of the embankment member 2 contacts the periphery of the opening 31 of the sealing member 3 and the convex portion 27 does not overlap with the opening 31 .

[0109] Next, the array plate 8 is turned upside down, and the end surface 82 of the array plate 8 is brought into contact with the side surface 231 of the bank member 2. Then, the array plate 8 is placed on the bank member 2 with the side surface 83 of the array plate 8 in contact with the corresponding side surface 232 of the bank member 2.

[0110] Next, the clamping member 4 is inverted and placed on the array plate 8 while the positioning pins 53, 54 and 55 are respectively in contact with the end surface 233 and the side surface 281 of the bank member 2. Then, the fitting portion 7 is rotated and fixed.

[0111] Thereafter, the frame member 1 is erected to complete the framed array panel 8 .

[0112] In this manner, in the frame member 1 according to this exemplary embodiment, the array plate 8 can be installed while being positioned relative to the dike member 2. When the array plate 8 is installed, the dot region 81 does not contact the dike member 2 or the sealing member 3, thereby preventing damage to the dot region 81. Since the dot region 81 faces downward during assembly of the frame member 1, even if the clamping member 4 falls onto the array plate 8 or contacts the array plate 8 in the wrong position, the dot region 81 will not be damaged.

[0113] In this way, the ease of attaching the frame member 1 to the array plate 8 can be improved.

[0114] Next, we will refer to Figure 12 The positional relationship among the dam member 2 , the sealing member 3 , the array plate 8 , and the clamping member 4 in the assembled frame member 1 will be described.

[0115] Figure 12 It is along Figure 10A A cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG.

[0116] When the frame member 1 is assembled, the bank member 2 and the sealing member 3 are fixed so as not to overlap the spot area 81. Therefore, when the liquid reagent is supplied to the opening 21 of the bank member 2, the reagent can react with the biological substance over the entire spot area 81.

[0117] The opening 51 of the clamping member 4 is arranged to have at least a portion overlapping with the opening 21 of the bank member 2 , which enables optical measurement of the entire dot area 81 of the array plate 8 from the back surface 8B side.

[0118] In the present exemplary embodiment, the right side surface 83 of the array plate 8 contacts the right side surface 232 of the convex portion 23 of the embankment member 2, but the left side surface 83 of the array plate 8 may contact the left side surface 232 of the convex portion 23. Alternatively, the user may be allowed to arbitrarily select whether to contact the left or right side surface.

[0119] In the present exemplary embodiment, the embankment member 2 is provided with the concave portion 22 and the clamping member 4 is provided with the convex portion 73 , but the opposite is also possible, in which the embankment member 2 is provided with the convex portion and the clamping member 4 is provided with the concave portion.

[0120] In this exemplary embodiment, the friction force acting between the convex portion 73 of the fitting portion 7 and the concave portion 22 of the embankment member 2 is used as a method for maintaining the fitting portion 7 in a fixed state. However, the fixed state may be maintained by a force other than friction, such as a force from a snap-fit structure or an attractive force of a magnetic member.

[0121] In the present exemplary embodiment, the plunger 65 is used to determine the angle of the fitting portion 7 relative to the support portion 6. However, positioning may be performed by another method, such as providing abutment surfaces on the support portion 6 and the fitting portion 7.

[0122] In the present exemplary embodiment, the bracket 11 is provided with a positioning pin, and the clamping part 4 is provided with through holes 56 and 57 to position the bracket 11 and the clamping part 4. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the embankment part 2 may be provided with a through hole for inserting the positioning pin of the bracket 11. The present invention is not limited to the positioning pin and the through hole. The bracket 11 used as the mounting part may be provided with a coupling portion, which comprises at least one of a gripping member, a magnetic member and an adsorption member, and at least one of the embankment part 2 and the clamping part 4 may be provided with a coupled portion, which comprises at least one of a gripping portion gripped by the gripping member, a magnetized portion magnetized by the magnetic member, and an adsorbed portion adsorbed to the adsorption member. The coupled portion is provided at a position different from the side surfaces 231 and 232 used as the reference surface of the embankment part 2.

[0123] [Second exemplary embodiment]

[0124] Will refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The second exemplary embodiment will be described. The basic configuration of the frame member according to the second exemplary embodiment is similar to the basic configuration of the frame member 1 according to the first exemplary embodiment. The following description will focus on the differences from the first exemplary embodiment and will omit the description of the same points as the first exemplary embodiment.

[0125] In the first exemplary embodiment, when assembling frame member 1 , sealing member 3 is placed on embankment member 2 so that convex portion 27 of embankment member 2 contacts the periphery of opening 31 of sealing member 3 without overlapping with opening 31 .

[0126] However, since the sealing member 3 is made of an elastic material such as rubber, has a rectangular thin plate shape, and has an opening 31 formed in the center, the sealing member 3 can be deformed by the force holding the sealing member 3 or by gravity. Therefore, it is not always easy to install the sealing member 3 in the correct position. If the sealing member 3 is installed in an incorrect position, a gap will be generated between the convex portion 27 of the embankment member 2 and the sealing member 3, so that the liquid reagent supplied to the opening 21 of the embankment member 2 can leak from the frame member 1 through this gap.

[0127] In view of this, with respect to the present exemplary embodiment, a form will be described having sixth and seventh position references which are positioning structures for positioning the dam member 2 and the sealing member 3 in the Y and X directions.

[0128] Figure 13 It is a perspective view of the sealing member 3 in an upright position.

[0129] The sealing member 3 has protrusions 32 on the left and right side surfaces. Two protrusions 32 are integrally formed at separate positions on the left side surface of the sealing member 3, and two protrusions 32 are integrally formed at separate positions on the right side surface.

[0130] Figure 14 It is a perspective view of the dike member 2 in an inverted position.

[0131] On the lower surface of the embankment member 2, the convex portion 23 has notches 26 on the left and right sides that correspond to the protrusions 32 of the sealing member 3. The notches 26 are slightly larger than the protrusions 32, allowing them to fit into the notches 26. The protrusions 32 and notches 26 are positioned so that, when fitted together, the convex portion 27 does not overlap with the opening 31 of the sealing member 3. When the four protrusions 32 fit into the notches 26, the sealing member 3 can be easily installed in the correct position. Thus, the four separate protrusions 32 on the sealing member 3 constitute the sixth positional reference in the Y direction and the seventh positional reference in the X direction, corresponding to the long and short sides of the array plate 8. Similarly, the four notches 26 on the embankment member 2 that correspond to the protrusions 32 constitute the sixth positional reference in the Y direction and the seventh positional reference in the X direction, corresponding to the long and short sides of the array plate 8. In this exemplary embodiment, both the sealing member 3 and the embankment member 2 are provided with the sixth and seventh positional references. However, the sixth position reference and the seventh position reference may be provided only on the sealing member 3 or the dam member 2 .

[0132] In the first and second exemplary embodiments described above, the rigidity of the bank member 2, the sealing member 3, and the clamping member 4 constituting the frame member 1 is appropriately selected to suppress the deformation of the frame member when the frame member is applied to the execution Figure 1 Hereinafter, the performance degradation that may occur in the optical measurement device will be described, and then an example of the rigidity condition of the frame member that solves this problem will be provided.

[0133] As described above, the frame member 1 presses and clamps the embankment member 2, the sealing member 3 and the array plate 8 by the convex portion 73 of the clamping member 4. At this time, the pressing force acts on the clamping member 4, the embankment member 2, the sealing member 3 and the array plate 8, so that these members can be deformed. As an example of such deformation, consider that the center of the array plate 8 and its vicinity can be deformed into a convex shape upward or downward relative to the upper surface 58 of the base portion 5. As described above, the measurement system 20 is a confocal laser microscope, and acquires a fluorescent image of a point by two-dimensionally scanning the array plate. Therefore, if the center of the array plate 8 and its vicinity are deformed into a convex shape compared to the periphery, the focus position is offset between the center and the periphery of the array plate 8, which can produce unevenness in the detected brightness depending on the measurement position.

[0134] Therefore, the above-mentioned deformation is suppressed by selecting the materials of the embankment member 2, the sealing member 3, and the clamping member 4 constituting the frame member 1 so that the relationship in rigidity between these members satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0135] First, a first example for reducing the deformation of the array plate 8 will be provided. In the first example, the upper surface 58 of the base portion 5 of the clamping member 4 is formed so that its flatness is small enough so that the upper surface 58 can be used as a reference plane when the base portion 5 is two-dimensionally scanned. The base portion 5 is made of a material with higher rigidity than the embankment member 2, the sealing member 3, and the array plate 8. The base portion 5 is a member with high rigidity and therefore does not deform even when pressure is applied. In addition, since the flatness of the upper surface 58 is small, the array plate 8 does not deform even if the array plate 8 is pressed against the base portion 5. In addition, by making the rigidity of the embankment member 2 smaller than the rigidity of the base portion 5 and the array plate 8, even if the embankment member 2 is deformed due to pressure, the influence on the array plate 8 and the base portion 5 can be reduced.

[0136] For example, when Young's modulus is used as a stiffness index of a member, the material of the member is selected so as to satisfy inequality (1):

[0137] Eb>Ep>Ed>Es...(1)

[0138] Wherein Eb, Ep, Ed and Es are the Young's moduli of the base portion 5, the array plate 8, the embankment member 2 and the sealing member 3, respectively. As a combination of materials satisfying inequality (1), for example, the sealing member is made of an elastomer such as fluororubber or ethylene propylene (PP) rubber (Young's modulus is 0.1 MPa or more and 10 MPa or less) and a foamed form of the elastomer. The embankment member 2 is made of a resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene (Young's modulus is 20 MPa or more and 3 GPa or less). The array plate 8 is made of an optical glass such as borosilicate glass or synthetic quartz (Young's modulus is 50 GPa or more and 80 GPa or less), and the base portion 5 is made of a steel material such as stainless steel or tungsten (Young's modulus is 100 GPa or more and 500 GPa or less). Young's modulus (Pa) may also be referred to as elastic modulus (Pa).

[0139] Next, a second example for reducing the deformation of the array plate 8 will be described. In the second example, the array plate 8 is used as a reference plane for two-dimensional scanning. The dike member 2, the sealing member 3, and the clamping member 4 are made of a material having a lower rigidity than the array plate, thereby suppressing the deformation of the array plate 8. As in the first example, when Young's modulus is used as an index of the rigidity of the member, in the second example, the material of the member is selected so that the Young's modulus Eb, Ep, Ed, and Es of the base portion 5, the array plate 8, the dike member 2, and the sealing member 3 satisfy:

[0140] Ep>Eb>Ed>Es...(2)

[0141] As an example of a combination of materials that satisfies inequality (2), the base portion 4 is made of a resin having a relatively high Young's modulus (such as PP), and the embankment member 2 is made of a resin having a lower Young's modulus than the base portion 4 (such as polyethylene (PE)). As in the first example, the sealing member 3 and the array plate 8 are made of rubber and steel, respectively.

[0142] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments, the above exemplary embodiments merely illustrate specific examples of the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be construed as being limited by these exemplary embodiments. That is, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from its technical concept or main features.

[0143] The disclosure of the exemplary embodiments includes the following configurations.

[0144] (Configuration 1)

[0145] A frame member configured to be attached to an array panel, comprising:

[0146] a dam member arranged to surround a predetermined area on one surface of the array plate and having an opening for receiving a liquid;

[0147] a sealing member disposed between the one surface of the array plate and the bank member; and

[0148] a clamping member that contacts the other surface of the array plate to support the array plate and detachably supports the embankment member,

[0149] The bank member has a first position reference configured to be in contact with an end surface located at one end of the array plate in the long side direction.

[0150] (Configuration 2)

[0151] The frame member according to Configuration 1, wherein the bank part has a second position reference configured to be in contact with a side surface at one end in a short-side direction of the array plate.

[0152] (Configuration 3)

[0153] A frame member according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein, in a state in which the end surface is in contact with the first position reference, one of the embankment part and the clamping part has a third position reference in a direction corresponding to the long side direction of the array plate for positioning relative to the other of the embankment part and the clamping part.

[0154] (Configuration 4)

[0155] A frame member according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein, in a state in which the end surface is in contact with the first position reference, one of the embankment part and the clamping part has a fourth position reference in a direction corresponding to the short side direction of the array plate for positioning relative to the other of the embankment part and the clamping part.

[0156] (Configuration 5)

[0157] A frame member according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein, in a state in which the end surface is in contact with the first position reference, one of the embankment part and the clamping part has a fifth position reference in a direction corresponding to the front thickness direction of the array plate for positioning relative to the other of the embankment part and the clamping part.

[0158] (Configuration 6)

[0159] The frame member according to any one of Configurations 1 to 5, wherein the dam member, the sealing member, and the array plate are compressed and clamped in a state in which the frame member is attached to the array plate.

[0160] (Configuration 7)

[0161] A frame member according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein one of the embankment member and the clamping member has a mating portion, and the other has a mating receiving portion into which the mating portion is mated, and the mating portion is capable of moving between a fixed state in which the mating portion is mated into the mating receiving portion and a non-fixed state in which the mating with the mating receiving portion is released.

[0162] (Configuration 8)

[0163] The frame member according to any one of Configurations 1 to 7, wherein the predetermined area is a spot area having a plurality of spots to which the sample is fixed.

[0164] (Configuration 9)

[0165] The frame member according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, wherein the clamping part has an opening which is formed on a surface parallel to the other surface of the array plate and is used for optically measuring the predetermined area.

[0166] (Configuration 10)

[0167] The frame member according to any one of configurations 1 to 9,

[0168] wherein the mounting portion on which the frame member is mounted is provided with a coupling portion comprising at least one of a gripping member, a magnetic member, and an adsorption member, and

[0169] Wherein, at least one of the embankment part and the clamping part is provided with a coupled portion, and the coupled portion includes at least one of a gripped portion gripped by the gripping member, a magnetized portion magnetized by the magnetic member, and an adsorbed portion adsorbed to the adsorption member.

[0170] (Configuration 11)

[0171] The frame member according to Configuration 10, wherein the bonded portion is provided at a position different from the first position reference.

[0172] (Configuration 12)

[0173] A frame member according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, wherein, in a state in which the end surface is in contact with the first position reference, one of the embankment part and the sealing part has a sixth position reference in a direction corresponding to the long side direction of the array plate for positioning relative to the other of the embankment part and the sealing part.

[0174] (Configuration 13)

[0175] A frame member according to any one of configurations 1 to 12, wherein, in a state in which the end surface is in contact with the first position reference, one of the embankment part and the sealing part has a seventh position reference in a direction corresponding to the short side direction of the array plate for positioning relative to the other of the embankment part and the sealing part.

[0176] (Configuration 14)

[0177] The frame member according to any one of Configurations 1 to 12, wherein an elastic modulus of the embankment part is lower than an elastic modulus of the array plate.

[0178] (Configuration 15)

[0179] The frame member according to Configuration 14, wherein the clamping part has a base portion that comes into contact with the other surface and supports the array board.

[0180] (Configuration 16)

[0181] The frame member according to Configuration 15, wherein an elastic modulus of the base portion is higher than the elastic modulus of the embankment member.

[0182] (Configuration 17)

[0183] The frame member according to configuration 16, wherein the elastic modulus of the base portion is higher than the elastic modulus of the array plate.

[0184] (Configuration 18)

[0185] The frame member according to configuration 16, wherein the elastic modulus of the base portion is lower than the elastic modulus of the array plate.

[0186] The present invention is not limited to the above exemplary embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the following claims are attached to disclose the scope of the present invention.

[0187] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-003301 filed on January 12, 2023, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-219840 filed on December 26, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0188] Symbol Explanation

[0189] 1 frame member

[0190] 2 dike components

[0191] 3 Sealing components

[0192] 4 Clamping parts

[0193] 5. Base

[0194] 6 Support part

[0195] 7. Matching part

[0196] 8 Array Board

[0197] 21 Opening

[0198] 22 concave part

[0199] 26 incision

[0200] 31 Opening

[0201] 32 protrusion

[0202] 53 to 55 positioning pins

[0203] 73 convex part

[0204] 81-point area

[0205] 82 end surface

[0206] 83 side surface

[0207] 231, 232 side surfaces

[0208] 233 end surface

[0209] 281 side surface

Claims

1. A frame member configured to be attached to an array panel, comprising: a dam member arranged to surround a predetermined area on one surface of the array plate and having an opening for receiving a liquid; a sealing member disposed between the one surface of the array plate and the embankment member; as well as a clamping member that contacts the other surface of the array plate to support the array plate and detachably supports the embankment member, The bank member has a first position reference configured to be in contact with an end surface located at one end of the array plate in the long side direction.

2. The frame member according to claim 1, wherein The dam member has a second position reference configured to be in contact with a side surface at one end of the array plate in a short-side direction.

3. The frame member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the end surface is in contact with the first position reference, in a direction corresponding to the long side direction of the array plate, one of the embankment part and the clamping part has a third position reference for positioning relative to the other of the embankment part and the clamping part.

4. The frame member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the end surface is in contact with the first position reference, in a direction corresponding to the short side direction of the array plate, one of the embankment part and the clamping part has a fourth position reference for positioning relative to the other of the embankment part and the clamping part.

5. The frame member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the end surface is in contact with the first position reference, one of the embankment part and the clamping part has a fifth position reference in a direction corresponding to the front thickness direction of the array plate for positioning relative to the other of the embankment part and the clamping part.

6. The frame member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: In a state where the frame member is attached to the array panel, the dam member, the sealing member, and the array panel are compressed and clamped.

7. The frame member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: One of the embankment member and the clamping member has a mating portion, and the other has a mating receiving portion into which the mating portion is mated, and the mating portion is capable of moving between a fixed state in which the mating portion is mated into the mating receiving portion and a non-fixed state in which the mating with the mating receiving portion is released.

8. The frame member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The predetermined area is a spot area having a plurality of spots to which samples are fixed.

9. The frame member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The clamping member has an opening formed on a surface parallel to the other surface of the array plate and used to optically measure the predetermined area.

10. The frame member according to claim 1 or 2, in, The mounting portion on which the frame member is mounted is provided with a coupling portion including at least one of a gripping member, a magnetic member, and an adsorption member, and Wherein, at least one of the embankment part and the clamping part is provided with a coupled portion, and the coupled portion includes at least one of a gripped portion gripped by the gripping member, a magnetized portion magnetized by the magnetic member, and an adsorbed portion adsorbed to the adsorption member.

11. The frame member according to claim 10, wherein The coupled portion is provided at a position different from the first position reference.

12. The frame member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the end surface is in contact with the first position reference, one of the embankment part and the sealing part has a sixth position reference in the direction corresponding to the long side direction of the array plate for positioning relative to the other of the embankment part and the sealing part.

13. The frame member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the end surface is in contact with the first position reference, one of the embankment part and the sealing part has a seventh position reference in the direction corresponding to the short side direction of the array plate for positioning relative to the other of the embankment part and the sealing part.

14. The frame member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The elastic modulus of the dam member is lower than the elastic modulus of the array plate.

15. The frame member according to claim 14, wherein The clamping member has a base portion that contacts the other surface and supports the array board.

16. The frame member according to claim 15, wherein The elastic modulus of the base portion is higher than the elastic modulus of the embankment member.

17. The frame member according to claim 16, wherein The elastic modulus of the base portion is higher than the elastic modulus of the array plate.

18. The frame member according to claim 16, wherein The elastic modulus of the base portion is lower than the elastic modulus of the array plate.

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