Ultrasonic irradiation device

Abstract

The ultrasonic irradiation device according to the present application includes an ultrasonic wave generating device having a vibration element that generates ultrasonic waves by vibration, and a container setting portion that sets a container in which an irradiation target container is set, and the ultrasonic waves generated by the vibration element are propagated to the irradiation target container, and the irradiation target container accommodates an object that is an object to be irradiated with the ultrasonic waves.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an ultrasonic irradiation device. Background Technology

[0002] The usefulness of ultrasound has been confirmed in a wide variety of fields. Ultrasound has been used for applications such as pulverization, suspension, micronization, dissolution, stirring, heating, coagulation, and reaction promotion. Furthermore, techniques for promoting the formation of amyloid fibers, as well as for cutting and miniaturizing amyloid fibers, using ultrasound are also known. In recent years, technologies utilizing the properties of ultrasound have attracted attention, and ultrasonic irradiation devices capable of irradiating objects with ultrasound have been developed.

[0003] Relatedly, there are known ultrasonic irradiation devices that generate amyloid protein by irradiating a supersaturated solution of amyloid pathogenic protein contained in a sample well with ultrasound (e.g., Patent Document 1). The ultrasonic irradiation device described in Patent Document 1 includes: a treatment tank (container) containing a medium (water) composed of fluid, an ultrasonic generating device disposed outside the treatment tank, and a sample plate having multiple sample wells immersed in the medium in the treatment tank. Ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic generating device are propagated to the medium, thereby irradiating the solution in each sample well with ultrasound.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-060987 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] Existing ultrasonic irradiation devices irradiate objects by propagating ultrasonic waves through a fluid, but the need for a container to hold the fluid leads to a large device size. Additionally, there are issues such as: ultrasonic waves attenuate more significantly in fluids compared to solids, resulting in lower energy efficiency; and the need for a fluid degassing device to suppress bubble formation further complicates the overall structure of the device.

[0009] The technology disclosed herein was developed to solve such problems, with the aim of miniaturizing, simplifying the structure, and improving the energy efficiency of ultrasonic irradiation devices.

[0010] Problem Solving Methods

[0011] To address the aforementioned problems, the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus of this disclosure employs the following configuration. That is, the technical essence of this disclosure is as follows. [1]

[0013] An ultrasonic irradiation device includes an ultrasonic generating device having a vibrating element that generates ultrasonic waves through vibration.

[0014] The ultrasonic generating device described above has a container housing section capable of housing an object to be irradiated, allowing the ultrasonic waves generated by the vibrating element to propagate solid to the object to be irradiated, and the container housing section housing an object to be irradiated by the ultrasonic waves. [2]

[0016] According to the ultrasonic irradiation device described in [1], wherein,

[0017] The aforementioned ultrasonic wave generating device further includes a first propagation unit that enables the ultrasonic waves to propagate through a solid.

[0018] The first propagation section has the container setting section, which allows the ultrasonic wave to propagate to the irradiated object receiving container. [3]

[0020] According to the ultrasonic irradiation device described in [1] or [2], wherein,

[0021] The container setting section has a holding part that holds the acoustic coupling agent capable of transmitting ultrasonic waves between the ultrasonic wave generating device and the irradiation object receiving container. [4]

[0023] The ultrasonic irradiation apparatus according to any one of [1] to [3] further includes a rotation mechanism that causes the irradiation object holder provided in the container setting to rotate relative to the ultrasonic generating apparatus about a rotation axis arranged in the arrangement direction of the vibration element and the container setting. [5]

[0025] According to the ultrasonic irradiation device described in [4], wherein,

[0026] The above-mentioned rotating mechanism has:

[0027] A bearing bore that passes through the ultrasonic generating device along the aforementioned rotational axis;

[0028] A shaft portion, which is inserted into the bearing hole, is connected to the irradiation target holder in a manner that allows it to rotate integrally with the irradiation target holder; and

[0029] A rotating device is arranged on the opposite side of the container setting part in the above-mentioned arrangement direction with reference to the above-mentioned vibration element, and is connected to the above-mentioned shaft part, so that the shaft part rotates around the above-mentioned rotation axis. [6]

[0031] According to the ultrasonic irradiation device described in [4] or [5], wherein,

[0032] The aforementioned object irradiation receiver has one or more storage sections arranged circumferentially around the aforementioned rotation axis to store the aforementioned object.

[0033] The container setting section has a holding part that holds the acoustic coupling agent capable of transmitting ultrasonic waves between the ultrasonic wave generating device and the storage section.

[0034] The aforementioned retaining part is formed as an annular groove extending circumferentially around the aforementioned rotation axis. [7]

[0036] The ultrasonic irradiation device according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein,

[0037] The aforementioned container setting part is formed as a recessed part capable of accommodating the aforementioned irradiation object holder and having an opening on one side.

[0038] The ultrasonic irradiation device further includes a cover member capable of opening and closing the opening of the recess. [8]

[0040] According to the ultrasonic irradiation device described in [7], wherein,

[0041] At least one of the container setting portion and the cover member is provided with a window for measuring the fluorescence of the object from the outside of the recess. [9]

[0043] The ultrasonic irradiation apparatus according to any one of [1] to [8] further comprises a temperature control device capable of adjusting the temperature of the object.

[10]

[0045] According to the ultrasonic irradiation device described in [2], wherein,

[0046] The ultrasonic generating device described above has a second propagation section that enables the ultrasonic waves generated by the vibrating element to propagate in a solid. The second propagation section is disposed on the opposite side of the first propagation section, with the vibrating element sandwiched between it.

[11]

[0048] According to the ultrasonic irradiation device described in [1], wherein,

[0049] The aforementioned container assembly is formed on the aforementioned vibrating element.

[12]

[0051] According to the ultrasonic irradiation device described in

[11] , wherein,

[0052] The aforementioned object irradiation receiver has one or more storage sections arranged in a circumferential shape to store the aforementioned object.

[0053] The aforementioned vibrating element extends in a ring shape along one or more of the aforementioned sample wells.

[13]

[0055] The ultrasonic irradiation apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[12] further comprises the above-mentioned object receiving device.

[0056] The effects of the invention

[0057] According to this disclosure, it is possible to miniaturize ultrasonic irradiation devices. Attached Figure Description

[0058] Figure 1 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic irradiation device according to the embodiment.

[0059] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the sample plate of the implementation method.

[0060] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the ultrasonic generating device according to the embodiment.

[0061] Figure 4 This diagram shows an example of how the shaft of the rotating mechanism is connected to the sample plate.

[0062] Figure 5 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic irradiation device of Embodiment 1, a variation of the embodiment.

[0063] Figure 6 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic irradiation device of Embodiment 2.

[0064] Symbol Explanation

[0065] 1: Sample plate (an example of an "irradiated object holder")

[0066] 2: Ultrasonic generating device

[0067] 3: Cover components

[0068] 4: Rotating mechanism

[0069] 5: Temperature control device

[0070] 6: Illumination device

[0071] 7: Optical detection device

[0072] 8: Outer shell

[0073] 13: Sample well

[0074] 21a, 21b: Piezoelectric elements

[0075] 22: Front Mass (an example of "First Propagation Section")

[0076] 22b: Container Setup Section

[0077] 22c: Retention section

[0078] 23: Rear Mass (An example of "Second Propagation Section")

[0079] 41: Bearing bore

[0080] 42: Shaft

[0081] 43: Rotating device

[0082] 100, 100A, 100B: Ultrasonic irradiation device Detailed Implementation

[0083] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described. It should be noted that each component and combination thereof in the embodiments is an example, and appropriate additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications can be made to the components without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments, but only to the claims. Furthermore, the numerical range indicated by "~" refers to the range including the values ​​described before and after "~" as the lower and upper limits; "A~B" means above A and below B.

[0084] [Overall Composition]

[0085] Figure 1 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the ultrasonic irradiation device 100 according to the embodiment. Figure 1 The figure shows a cross section (called the longitudinal section) along the axis of rotation indicated by the symbol A1. Figure 1The image shows the vertical direction of the ultrasonic irradiation device 100. In this embodiment, the vertical direction is defined as the arrangement direction of the piezoelectric elements represented by symbols 21a and 21b and the container mounting portion represented by symbol 22b. In the arrangement direction of the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b (vibration elements) and the container mounting portion 22b, the piezoelectric element 21a and 21b side is the lower side, and the container mounting portion 22b side is the upper side. It should be noted that in this example, two piezoelectric elements are used, but one piezoelectric element may also be used. The number of piezoelectric elements is not particularly limited, and is usually one to four, preferably one, two, or four, more preferably one or two, and particularly preferably two. The rotation axis A1 is arranged along the vertical direction. The ultrasonic irradiation device 100 is used in a state where the vertical direction of the ultrasonic irradiation device 100 is aligned with the vertical direction (gravity direction), and the upper side of the ultrasonic irradiation device 100 (the container mounting portion 22b side) is aligned with the upper side in the vertical direction. However, the technology disclosed herein is not limited thereto.

[0086] The ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 of this embodiment causes changes such as pulverization, suspension, microparticle formation, dissolution, stirring, heating, coagulation, and reaction promotion in an object to be irradiated with ultrasound (hereinafter referred to as the ultrasonic irradiation object). As an example, the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 uses a solution containing proteins and fluorescent molecules that emit light when adsorbed onto protein aggregates (hereinafter referred to as the object solution L1) as the ultrasonic irradiation object. In this embodiment, the protein is, for example, amyloid-β, which is a cause of Alzheimer's disease; β2-microglobulin, which is a cause of dialysis amyloidosis; or α-synuclein, which is a cause of Parkinson's disease. When the protein is composed of amyloid-β, β2-microglobulin, or α-synuclein, the fluorescent molecule is thioflavin T. Thioflavin T fluoresces when adsorbed onto aggregates of amyloid-β, β2-microglobulin, or α-synuclein. The ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 of this embodiment irradiates the object solution L1 with ultrasound, thereby generating protein aggregates through a coagulation reaction. In addition, the ultrasonic irradiation device 100 irradiates the target solution L1 with excitation light and detects the fluorescence emitted by the fluorescent molecules. However, the target of ultrasonic irradiation in this disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned target.

[0087] like Figure 1 As shown, the ultrasonic irradiation device 100 includes: a sample plate 1, an ultrasonic generating device 2, a cover member 3, a rotating mechanism 4, a temperature control device 5, a light irradiation device 6, a light detection device 7, and a housing 8. The components of the ultrasonic irradiation device 100 will be described below.

[0088] [Sample Plate]

[0089] Figure 2This is a perspective view of sample plate 1. Sample plate 1 is a container for holding the target solution L1 (the target to be irradiated by ultrasound). Sample plate 1 is an example of the "target to be irradiated" disclosed herein. Sample plate 1 has: a main body 11, a bearing hole 12, multiple sample wells 13, multiple through holes 14, and multiple wall portions 15. Sample plate 1 is formed, for example, from a resin material such as polypropylene in a transparent form. The material of the target to be irradiated disclosed herein is not particularly limited, and polypropylene, which has excellent ultrasonic transmittance, can be suitably used. Alternatively, amorphous cyclic olefin resin, which has excellent ultrasonic transmittance, can be used as the material for the target to be irradiated. From the viewpoint of excellent transmittance, amorphous cyclic olefin resin is more preferably used as the material for the target to be irradiated.

[0090] The main body 11 is formed in the shape of a disk orthogonal to the vertical direction. The bearing hole 12 is a through hole located in the center of the main body 11 and extending through the main body 11 in the vertical direction. The shaft 42, described later, with the rotation axis A1 as its central axis, is inserted into the bearing hole 12.

[0091] Multiple sample wells 13 constitute a multi-channel sample plate 1. Each sample well 13 has a bottomed cylindrical shape extending in the vertical direction. The upper end of the sample well 13 is connected to the main body 11 and opens on the upper surface of the main body 11. The lower end of the sample well 13 protrudes downward from the lower surface of the main body 11 and is closed. The multiple sample wells 13 are arranged at positions equidistant from the bearing hole 12 and are arranged circumferentially with the bearing hole 12 (i.e., the rotating shaft A1) as the center. More specifically, the multiple sample wells 13 are arranged at a given interval (equal interval) along the circumference of a circle C1 centered on the bearing hole 12. As an example, the sample plate 1 of this embodiment has 18 sample wells 13. The target solution L1 is contained in these multiple sample wells 13. The openings of the multiple sample wells 13 are closed by a transparent sealing member (not shown). The multiple sample wells 13 are an example of the "multiple receiving parts" of this disclosure. It should be noted that the number of storage sections is not particularly limited in this disclosure, and there may not be multiple storage sections. Furthermore, the shape and number of storage sections are not particularly limited. For example, it is also possible to configure the sample well 13 to be flipped vertically so that the opening sealed by the transparent sealing member faces downwards (i.e., the side of the ultrasonic generator), and ultrasonic waves are irradiated onto the object through the sealing member. In this case, the main body 11 is positioned at the center of each sample well 13 in the vertical direction.

[0092] Multiple through holes 14 penetrate the main body 11 in the vertical direction and are arranged radially with the bearing hole 12 as the center. More specifically, the multiple through holes 14 are arranged axially symmetrically with the bearing hole 12 as the center between the bearing hole 12 and the multiple sample wells 13.

[0093] Multiple wall portions 15 are disposed between circumferentially adjacent sample wells 13, 13, hanging down from the lower surface of the main body portion 11 and connecting the sample wells 13, 13 to each other.

[0094] [Ultrasonic generating device]

[0095] like Figure 1 As shown, the ultrasonic generating device 2 includes: a drive unit 21, a front mass block 22 (an example of the "first propagation unit" of this disclosure), a rear mass block 23 (an example of the "second propagation unit" of this disclosure), a flange 24, a bolt 25, and a nut 26. The ultrasonic generating device 2 is configured as a bolt-clamped Langevin type vibrator, in which the drive unit 21, the front mass block 22, the rear mass block 23, and the flange 24 are stacked vertically and fastened together by bolts 25 and nuts 26. However, the ultrasonic generating device of this disclosure is not limited to a Langevin type vibrator. In the ultrasonic generating device 2 of this embodiment, the front mass block 22 and the rear mass block 23 are arranged opposite each other with the drive unit 21 in between, and the flange 24, which is located at the vibration node, is held by the housing 8. The resonant frequency of the ultrasonic generating device 2 is not particularly limited, for example, it is set to 20 to 300 kHz. By changing the size, weight, and material of the front mass block 22 and the rear mass block 23, the resonance frequency of the ultrasonic generating device 2 can be adjusted.

[0096] The drive unit 21 has piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b (an example of the "vibration element" of this disclosure) and electrode plates 21c and 21d, which are stacked vertically. The piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b are piezoelectric ceramics (PZT piezoelectric elements) that have undergone polarization treatment. An external oscillator (not shown) is electrically connected to the electrode plates 21c and 21d. The electrode plates 21c and 21d are connectors for applying a voltage of a given frequency supplied from the oscillator to the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b to the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b. The piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b vibrate by the applied voltage, thereby generating ultrasonic waves. The piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b and the electrode plates 21c and 21d are formed in a ring shape and are fitted with bolts 25. It should be noted that in this example, two piezoelectric elements are used, but the number of piezoelectric elements is not particularly limited and can also be one. Furthermore, the vibration element of this disclosure is not limited to piezoelectric elements. The vibrating element disclosed herein can be a piezoelectric element (electrostrictive element) that vibrates by applying a voltage to excite (generate) ultrasonic waves, or a magnetostrictive element that vibrates by vibrating a vibrating magnetic field to excite (generate) ultrasonic waves.

[0097] The front mass block 22 and the rear mass block 23 are metallic blocks that enable the ultrasonic waves generated by the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b to propagate through a solid (propagation via a solid medium). The front mass block 22 and the rear mass block 23 resonate with the ultrasonic vibrations transmitted from the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b, expanding / contracting and vibrating in the vertical direction and in a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction, thereby amplifying and propagating the ultrasonic vibrations. Examples of materials for the front mass block 22 and the rear mass block 23 include aluminum alloy, titanium, steel (S45C), and stainless steel, with stainless steel, which is rust-resistant, being preferred. However, the materials for the first and second propagation sections of this disclosure are not limited to metallic materials. The first and second propagation sections can be any solid components capable of propagating ultrasonic waves.

[0098] like Figure 1 As shown, the front mass block 22 is positioned higher than the drive unit 21 and is fixed to the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b by means of the flange 24. The front mass block 22 has a block body portion 221, a peripheral wall portion 222, and a vertical wall portion 223.

[0099] The main body 221 is a component for solid-state propagation of ultrasonic waves generated by piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b, and is formed in a generally frustum-conical shape with its diameter increasing upwards. The central axis of the main body 221 coincides with the rotation axis A1. A non-penetrating threaded hole 22a is formed in the main body 221, which opens on the lower end face of the main body 221 and extends in the vertical direction. The central axis of the threaded hole 22a coincides with the rotation axis A1. A bolt 25 is inserted into the threaded hole 22a, and the external thread formed on the outer periphery of the bolt 25 engages with the internal thread formed on the inner periphery of the threaded hole 22a. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the cross-section of the main body 221 orthogonal to the rotation axis A1 is set to a circular shape, but it is not limited to this. For example, the cross-section of the front mass block 22 may also be polygonal.

[0100] The peripheral wall portion 222 is formed as a cylinder extending in the vertical direction, extending upward from the periphery of the upper end face of the block body portion 221. The central axis of the peripheral wall portion 222 coincides with the rotation axis A1. At the upper end of the front mass block 22, a recessed portion, namely a container placement portion 22b, is formed by the block body portion 221 and the peripheral wall portion 222, which allows the sample plate 1 to be placed. More specifically, the container placement portion 22b is a space surrounded by the upper end face of the block body portion 221 and the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall portion 222. The height dimension (length in the vertical direction) of the peripheral wall portion 222 is greater than the height dimension of the sample plate 1. Therefore, the container placement portion 22b is deeper than the sample plate 1. In addition, a window portion 22d is formed in the peripheral wall portion 222 for realizing fluorescence detection by the photodetector 7 from the outside of the container placement portion 22b. The window portion 22d is formed as a through hole that penetrates the peripheral wall portion 222 in the radial direction. In addition, the opening at the upper end of the peripheral wall portion 222 forms the opening 22e of the container mounting portion 22b.

[0101] The vertical wall portion 223 is formed as a cylinder extending vertically and with a diameter smaller than that of the peripheral wall portion 222, extending upward from the upper end of the block body portion 221. The central axis of the vertical wall portion 223 coincides with the rotation axis A1. Furthermore, the height of the vertical wall portion 223 is smaller than the height of the peripheral wall portion 222. In the container placement portion 22b, a holding portion 22c is formed by the block body portion 221, the peripheral wall portion 222, and the vertical wall portion 223, capable of holding the acoustic coupling agent B1. The vertical wall portion 223 prevents the acoustic coupling agent contained in the holding portion 22c from being ejected by ultrasonic waves and leaking towards the bearing hole 41 side.

[0102] Figure 3 This is a top view of the ultrasonic wave generating device 2 according to the embodiment. Figure 3 As shown, the holding part 22c is formed as an annular groove extending circumferentially around the rotation axis A1. The holding part 22c holds the acoustic coupling agent B1, which can propagate ultrasonic waves. The front mass block 22 contacts the sample plate 1 via the acoustic coupling agent B1. It should be noted that the acoustic coupling agent B1 may not be inserted between the front mass block 22 and the sample plate 1, and the front mass block 22 and the sample plate 1 may be in direct contact.

[0103] In addition, the holding part 22c can receive multiple sample wells 13 of the sample plate 1. The sample plate 1 is disposed in the container setting part 22b with the bottom (lower end) of the multiple sample wells 13 being received by the holding part 22c.

[0104] like Figure 1As shown, acoustic coupling agent B1 is filled in the holding part 22c, thereby intervening between the front mass block 22 of the ultrasonic generating device 2 and the sample well 13 of the sample plate 1. The acoustic coupling agent B1 only needs to be able to expel air from between the front mass block 22 and the sample well 13; a gel-like acoustic coupling agent with low vibration attenuation is preferred. However, the type of acoustic coupling agent disclosed herein is not particularly limited, and examples include gel-like acoustic coupling agents, cream-like acoustic coupling agents, etc. Water can also be used as the acoustic coupling agent. In the case where air exists between the ultrasonic generating device 2 and the sample plate 1 without the use of acoustic coupling agent B1, a so-called dry contact state is achieved, and ultrasonic waves propagate spatially. By intervening acoustic coupling agent B1 between the ultrasonic generating device 2 and the sample plate 1, compared with air propagation, ultrasonic wave attenuation can be suppressed, and energy efficiency can be improved. However, in this disclosure, the acoustic coupling agent is not a necessary component, and the ultrasonic irradiation device may not use an acoustic coupling agent. In this embodiment, without using acoustic coupling agent B1, the sample plate 1 can be given a heating effect caused by friction at the contact portion between the ultrasonic generating device 2 and the sample plate 1 when the sample plate 1 is rotated relative to the ultrasonic generating device 2 by the rotating mechanism 4 described later. Therefore, it is suitable for heating the target solution L1.

[0105] like Figure 1 As shown, the rear mass block 23 is positioned lower than the drive unit 21 and is fixed to the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b. That is, the rear mass block 23 is positioned opposite the front mass block 22, sandwiched between the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b. The rear mass block 23 is formed as a cylinder extending in the vertical direction. The central axis of the rear mass block 23 coincides with the rotation axis A1. That is, the rear mass block 23 is coaxially arranged with the front mass block 22. A through hole 23a extending in the vertical direction is formed in the rear mass block 23. A bolt 25 is inserted into the through hole 23a. The rear mass block 23 functions as a counterweight to maintain weight balance with the front mass block 22. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the cross-section of the rear mass block 23 orthogonal to the rotation axis A1 is circular, but this is not a limitation. For example, the cross-section of the rear mass block 23 may also be polygonal.

[0106] The flange 24 is a component used to support the ultrasonic generating device 2 on any structure. The flange 24 is formed in a ring shape and has a bolt 25 inserted through it. The flange 24 is inserted between the drive unit 21 and the front mass block 22 and protrudes radially outward. The flange 24 is positioned at the node of the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic generating device 2 (that is, the non-vibrating position where the wavelength amplitude is 0). Figure 1As shown, in this embodiment, the ultrasonic generating device 2 is supported by the housing 8, which serves as the structural body, by fixing the flange 24 to the housing 8. The material of the flange 24 is not particularly limited; a metallic material is an example. In this embodiment, the flange 24 is formed as a separate component from the front mass block 22, but the flange 24 can also be formed as part of the front mass block 22. That is, the front mass block 22 and the flange 24 can be formed integrally.

[0107] Bolts 25 and nuts 26 are fastening components used to secure the drive unit 21, the front mass block 22, the rear mass block 23, and the flange 24. For example... Figure 1 As shown, as an example, bolt 25 is formed as a headless double-ended bolt. Bolt 25 is inserted vertically through the through hole 23a of rear mass block 23, and its upper end reaches front mass block 22 via drive part 21 and flange 24, engaging with threaded hole 22a. The lower end of bolt 25 protrudes downward from rear mass block 23, and is engaged with nut 26. By tightening nut 26, front mass block 22, drive part 21 and rear mass block 23 are fixed together and integrated. Thus, ultrasonic generating device 2 is configured as a bolt-tightened Langevin type vibrator.

[0108] [Cover component]

[0109] The cover member 3 is a member capable of opening and closing the opening 22e of the container mounting portion 22b, which is formed as a recess. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the cover member 3 is formed, for example, in the shape of a plate (disc in this example), and is arranged at the upper end of the peripheral wall portion 222 in an orthogonal orientation relative to the vertical direction. The opening 22e formed at the upper end of the peripheral wall portion 222 is closed by the cover member 3, thereby forming a shielded space that blocks light from the outside. The cover member 3 has a shaft support hole 3a for supporting the shaft portion 42 of the rotating mechanism 4, and an irradiation hole 3b for irradiating the object solution L1 in the container portion 22b with light by the light irradiation device 6. The shaft support hole 3a and the irradiation hole 3b are formed as through holes that penetrate the cover member 3 in the vertical direction. In addition, a temperature control device 5 such as a heater (described later) can be provided inside the cover member 3, thereby enabling temperature control of the object solution L1 in the sample well 13.

[0110] [Rotating Mechanism]

[0111] The rotating mechanism 4 causes the sample plate 1, which is disposed in the container setting section 22b, to rotate relative to the ultrasonic generating device 2. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the rotating mechanism 4 includes a bearing hole 41, a shaft 42, and a rotating device 43.

[0112] The bearing hole 41 is a through hole that passes through the ultrasonic generating device 2 along the rotation axis A1. Specifically, the bearing hole 41 passes through the front mass block 22 and the bolt 25 in the vertical direction.

[0113] The shaft portion 42 is a shaft member extending in the vertical direction. The shaft portion 42 is inserted into the bearing hole 41 and connected to the sample plate 1 in a manner that allows it to rotate integrally with the sample plate 1. The central axis of the shaft portion 42 coincides with the rotation axis A1. The upper end of the shaft portion 42 passes through the sample plate 1, the temperature control device 5, and the cover member 3, and protrudes upwards beyond the cover member 3. The lower end of the shaft portion 42 passes through the bolt 25 and protrudes downwards beyond the bolt 25, connecting to the rotation device 43.

[0114] The rotating device 43 causes the shaft 42 to rotate around the rotating axis A1. The rotating device 43 is positioned lower than the ultrasonic generating device 2. That is, the rotating device 43 is positioned on the opposite side of the container mounting portion 22b in the vertical direction, with the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b as a reference. The rotating device 43 is connected to the shaft 42, which protrudes downward from the ultrasonic generating device 2. The rotating device 43 may have, for example, an engine as a drive source and a gear that transmits the rotational driving force of the engine to the shaft 42, causing the shaft 42 to rotate at an appropriate speed. It should be noted that the configuration of the rotating device disclosed herein is not limited to this, and any method can be used.

[0115] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an example of the connection between the shaft 42 of the rotating mechanism 4 and the sample plate 1. Figure 4 As shown, the rotating mechanism 4 may have a connecting member 44 that connects the shaft portion 42 and the sample plate 1. The connecting member 44 has a fixing portion 441 and a engaging portion 442. The fixing portion 441 is cylindrical and fits into and is fixed to the shaft portion 42. The engaging portion 442 engages with the sample plate 1 by inserting into the through hole 14 of the sample plate 1. Thus, when the shaft portion 42 rotates about the rotation axis A1, the sample plate 1 rotates integrally with the shaft portion 42.

[0116] [Temperature control device]

[0117] Temperature control device 5 is disposed within container housing 22b to adjust (control) the temperature of the target solution L1 contained in sample plate 1. Figure 1As shown, the temperature control device 5 is formed, for example, in a disc-shaped (plate-shaped) configuration, and is arranged to be stacked on top of the sample plate 1 from above. The temperature control device 5 measures the temperature within the sample well 13 of the sample plate 1, and based on this measured temperature, controls the target solution L1 contained in the sample well 13 to a given temperature. The temperature control device 5 has an irradiation hole 5a for irradiating the target solution L1 within the container placement section 22b with light by the light irradiation device 6. The irradiation hole 5a is formed as a through hole penetrating the temperature control device 5 in the vertical direction. It should be noted that the configuration of the temperature control device disclosed herein is not limited to this, and any configuration can be adopted. The temperature control device may, for example, include a heating device such as an electric heating wire heater, a heat pump, a heat exchanger, or a Peltier element cooler.

[0118] [Lighting device]

[0119] The illumination device 6 irradiates the target solution L1 with excitation light of a given wavelength. The illumination device 6 has, for example, a light-emitting diode as the light-emitting element (light source) emitting the excitation light. However, the configuration of the illumination device 6 is not limited to this. The illumination device 6 is inserted into the irradiation hole 3b of the cover member 3 and the irradiation hole 5a of the temperature control device 5, irradiating the sample well 13 from above into the sample well 13. During visual identification along the rotation axis A1, the illumination device 6 is arranged on a surrounding track of the plurality of sample wells 13. It should be noted that the illumination device 6 can be provided corresponding to each sample well 13. Furthermore, the illumination device 6 can irradiate the excitation light through the window 22d formed on the front mass block 22.

[0120] [Optical Detection Device]

[0121] The photodetector 7 detects the fluorescence emitted by fluorescent molecules when the excitation light is irradiated by the illumination device 6. The photodetector 7 may, for example, have a phototransistor as the fluorescence receiving element. Alternatively, the photodetector 7 may, for example, have a photomultiplier tube as the fluorescence receiving element. However, the configuration of the photodetector 7 is not limited to these. The photodetector 7 receives the fluorescence within the sample well 13 from the side of the sample well 13 via the window 22d of the front mass block 22.

[0122] The housing 8 houses the ultrasonic generator 2. The material of the housing 8 is not particularly limited; for example, a metal material can be used. The housing 8 supports the flange 24 of the ultrasonic generator 2.

[0123] [action]

[0124] The operation of the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 will be described below using the detection of protein aggregates using the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 of this embodiment as an example. In the following description, as an example, the following situation will be explained: Using the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100, aggregates (amyloid filaments) of the protein (β2-microglobulin) are generated in a target solution L1 containing β2-microglobulin (an amyloid-forming protein), thioflavin T (a fluorescent molecule), sodium chloride (NaCl), and hydrochloric acid (HCl), and detected by ThT fluorescence (thioflavin T fluorescence). The concentration of the target solution L1 is, for example, set as follows: β2-microglobulin concentration is 0.3 [mg / mL], NaCl concentration is 150 [mM], HCl concentration is 30 [mM], and thioflavin T concentration is 5 [μM]. Furthermore, the resonant frequency of the ultrasonic generating apparatus 2, configured as a Langervan type vibrator, is set to 23 [kHz]. However, this disclosure is not limited to this.

[0125] First, acoustic coupling agent B1 is filled into the holding portion 22c of the container setting portion 22b formed on the front mass block 22. A sample plate 1, containing the target solution L1 in multiple sample wells 13, is then placed in the container setting portion 22b. At this time, the multiple sample wells 13 are received by the holding portion 22c, thereby immersing a portion of the bottom of each sample well 13 in the acoustic coupling agent B1. This results in the acoustic coupling agent B1 being positioned between the front mass block 22 and the sample wells 13 of the sample plate 1. The temperature control device 5 is set to, for example, 37°C for measurement.

[0126] In this state, ultrasonic waves are generated by activating the ultrasonic wave generating device 2, thereby generating ultrasonic waves through the vibration of piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b. The ultrasonic wave generating device 2 generates ultrasonic waves with a frequency of 23-25 ​​kHz, for example. Here, the frequency of the ultrasonic waves can be a fixed value or can be scanned within a specified range. Furthermore, the ultrasonic waves can be generated continuously or repeatedly generated and stopped according to a specified cycle. The ultrasonic waves generated by the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b propagate through the front mass block 22, thereby irradiating multiple sample wells 13 of the sample plate 1 disposed in the container placement section 22b via the acoustic coupling agent B1. This irradiates the target solution L1 contained in the multiple sample wells 13 with ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic waves are irradiated into the target solution L1 through the bottom of the sample well 13. By irradiating the target solution L1 with ultrasonic waves, protein aggregation is accelerated, forming aggregates (amyloid fibrous tissue).

[0127] At this time, the rotating mechanism 4 rotates the sample plate 1 around the rotating axis A1. That is, the ultrasonic irradiation of the target solution L1 is performed while the sample plate 1 is rotating around the rotating axis A1 via the rotating mechanism 4, or in a state of repeated rotation and stopping. The rotating device 43 rotates the shaft portion 42 around the rotating axis A1, thereby causing the sample plate 1 connected to the shaft portion 42 to rotate around the rotating axis A1. It should be noted that by supporting the shaft portion 42 using the shaft support hole 3a of the cover member 3, the oscillation rotation (axis offset) of the shaft portion 42 is suppressed. The rotating mechanism 4 rotates the sample plate 1 at a speed of, for example, 0.1 Hz. The holding portion 22c is formed as an annular groove extending circumferentially around the rotating axis A1, so that the plurality of sample wells 13 rotate (or surround) around the rotating axis A1 along the holding portion 22c. Thus, the target solution L1 contained in each of the plurality of sample wells 13 is uniformly irradiated with ultrasonic waves. In addition, the sample plate 1 is rotated to stir the target solution L1 contained in each sample well 13.

[0128] Then, with the multiple sample wells 13 rotating, the illumination device 6 irradiates the solution in each sample well 13 with excitation light through a transparent sealing member. The illumination device 6 uses light that has passed through a short-pass filter with a cutoff wavelength of 450 nm as the excitation light.

[0129] Illumination device 6 irradiates the target solution L1 within sample well 13 with excitation light. Fluorescent molecules couple (adsorb) with the aggregates formed in the target solution L1, thereby emitting fluorescence. Photodetector 7 detects the fluorescence emitted by the fluorescent molecules. As described above, sample plate 1 is transparent; therefore, fluorescence from the target solution L1 within each sample well 13 passes through the sidewalls of each sample well 13. Thus, photodetector 7 receives the fluorescence within the sample well 13 via window 22d of the front mass block 22. The peak fluorescence wavelength of ThT fluorescence is approximately 482 nm; therefore, photodetector 7 detects, for example, the light after passing through a long-pass filter with a cutoff wavelength of 475 nm.

[0130] Protein aggregates can be detected by detecting the fluorescence from the target solution L1.

[0131] [Function / Effect]

[0132] As described above, the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 of this embodiment includes an ultrasonic generating apparatus 2 having piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b (vibrating elements) that generate ultrasonic waves through vibration. The ultrasonic generating apparatus 2 has a container setting section 22b that can set a sample plate 1, so that the ultrasonic waves generated by the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b are propagated to the sample plate 1, which houses a target solution L1, which is the target of ultrasonic irradiation.

[0133] In other words, the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 of this embodiment is configured to irradiate the target solution L1 with ultrasonic waves via solid-state propagation. On the other hand, in the case of conventional apparatuses that irradiate the target object with ultrasonic waves via fluid-state propagation, large-scale processing tanks are required for immersing the container of the target object in fluids such as water, resulting in a large overall size of the apparatus. In addition, there is a possibility that the ultrasonic intensity may decrease due to the generation of bubbles, and the fluid degassing device used to suppress this possibility is one of the reasons for the overall size of the apparatus. In contrast, the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 of this embodiment irradiates the target solution L1 with ultrasonic waves via solid-state propagation, therefore, large-scale processing tanks for immersing the sample plate 1 in fluids, fluid degassing devices, etc., are not required. Thus, according to this embodiment, miniaturization and structural simplification of the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 can be achieved. Furthermore, compared with fluid-state propagation, the attenuation of ultrasonic waves is smaller with solid-state propagation, therefore, compared with the conventional apparatus described above, the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 of this embodiment can improve the energy efficiency of ultrasonic wave introduction to the target object and achieve low output. Furthermore, the ultrasonic irradiation device 100 of this embodiment is configured to irradiate an object with ultrasonic waves propagating through a solid. Therefore, compared with the conventional device described above, it can reduce the non-uniformity of ultrasonic waves and has excellent reproducibility.

[0134] In addition, the ultrasonic generating apparatus 2 of this embodiment has a front mass block 22 for propagating ultrasonic waves generated by piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b in a solid. The front mass block 22 has a container setting part 22b for propagating ultrasonic waves generated by piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b to the sample plate 1.

[0135] In other words, in the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 of this embodiment, a container setting portion 22b for setting the sample plate 1 is formed on the front mass block 22 for solid-state propagation of ultrasonic waves, and ultrasonic waves are irradiated onto the target solution L1 through solid-state propagation of the front mass block 22. Therefore, since the container setting portion 22b is formed on the front mass block 22, it is not necessary to separately set the container for setting the sample plate 1 and the ultrasonic wave generating device 2. Thus, according to this embodiment, further miniaturization of the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 can be achieved. Furthermore, by providing the front mass block 22 with high temperature resistance, ultrasonic irradiation at both high and low temperatures can be achieved, making temperature adjustment easier. As a result, ultrasonic waves can be stably irradiated even at temperatures higher than room temperature (e.g., exceeding 40°C). Moreover, by increasing the aperture of the front mass block 22, the irradiation area of ​​the ultrasonic waves can be increased. As a result, large-area ultrasonic irradiation can be achieved. However, in this disclosure, the first propagation portion is not a necessary component.

[0136] In addition, the container setting part 22b in this embodiment is provided with a holding part 22c that holds the acoustic coupling agent B1 capable of transmitting ultrasonic waves between the sample plate 1 and the sample plate 1.

[0137] Therefore, by using the acoustic coupling agent B1, the attenuation of the ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic generating device 2 as they are transmitted from the front mass block 22 to the sample plate 1 can be suppressed. As a result, the target solution L1 contained in the sample plate 1 can be effectively irradiated with ultrasonic waves. It should be noted that the acoustic coupling agent is not an essential component in this disclosure.

[0138] Furthermore, the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100 of this embodiment further includes a rotation mechanism 4. The rotation mechanism 4 causes the sample plate 1 disposed in the container setting section 22b to rotate relative to the ultrasonic generating apparatus 2 about a rotation axis A1 arranged in the vertical direction (the arrangement direction of the piezoelectric elements 21a, 21b and the container setting section 22b).

[0139] Therefore, by rotating the sample plate 1, the target solution L1 contained in the sample plate 1 can be uniformly irradiated with ultrasound. This suppresses deviations caused by ultrasound waves (coagulation in this example) in the sample plate 1. Furthermore, by rotating the sample plate 1, the target solution L1 can be stirred without the need for a separate stirrer.

[0140] Furthermore, the rotating mechanism 4 of this embodiment includes: a bearing hole 41 through which the ultrasonic generating device 2 passes along the rotation axis A1; a shaft portion 42 inserted into the bearing hole 41 and connected to the sample plate 1 in a manner that allows it to rotate integrally with the sample plate 1; and a rotating device 43 connected to the shaft portion 42 and causing the shaft portion 42 to rotate around the rotation axis A1. Furthermore, the rotating device 43 is positioned in the vertical direction on the side opposite to the container mounting portion 22b (in this example, the lower side) with reference to the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b.

[0141] In other words, by employing a configuration in which the shaft portion 42 is inserted through the bearing hole 41 penetrating the ultrasonic generating device 2, the rotating mechanism 4 allows the rotating device 43 to be positioned on the opposite side of the container mounting portion 22b. Therefore, no structure is needed to position the rotating device 43 on the container mounting portion 22b side, i.e., above the container mounting portion 22b. Consequently, compared to the case where the rotating device 43 is positioned above the container mounting portion 22b, the ultrasonic irradiation device 100 can be miniaturized.

[0142] Furthermore, the sample plate 1 of this embodiment has one or more sample wells 13 arranged circumferentially around the rotation axis A1 and for accommodating the object. Additionally, a holding portion 22c is formed in the container setting portion 22b to hold the acoustic coupling agent B1 capable of transmitting ultrasonic waves between the sample well 13 and the front mass block 22. The holding portion 22c is formed as an annular groove extending circumferentially around the rotation axis A1.

[0143] Therefore, by forming the holding portion 22c into an annular groove, one or more sample wells 13 can rotate (or revolve) around the rotation axis A1 along the holding portion 22c while maintaining contact with the acoustic coupling agent B1. This allows for effective irradiation of the target solution L1 with ultrasound while the sample plate 1 is rotated. Furthermore, by forming the holding portion 22c into an annular groove, the amount of acoustic coupling agent B1 used can be reduced to a small amount.

[0144] Furthermore, the container setting portion 22b of this embodiment is formed as a recessed portion capable of accommodating the sample plate 1 and having an opening 22e on one side (the top in this example). Moreover, the ultrasonic irradiation device 100 further includes a cover member 3 capable of opening and closing the opening 22e of the recessed portion.

[0145] Therefore, by closing the opening 22e with the cover member 3, the container mounting section 22b can be formed into a shielded space that blocks light from the outside. This reduces the impact of external light. It should be noted that the orientation of the opening in the container mounting section of this disclosure is not particularly limited, and it may not be upwards.

[0146] In addition, the container setting section 22b in this embodiment is provided with a window 22d for measuring the fluorescence of the target solution L1 from the outside of the container setting section 22b.

[0147] Therefore, fluorescence measurement of the target solution L1 can be performed from the outside of the container mounting section 22b. It should be noted that the window 22d may also be formed on the cover member 3. The window of this disclosure may be formed on at least either the container mounting section or the cover member.

[0148] In addition, the ultrasonic irradiation device 100 of this embodiment further includes a temperature control device 5 capable of adjusting the temperature of the target solution L1.

[0149] Therefore, the target solution L1 contained in sample plate 1 can be controlled at an appropriate temperature.

[0150] In addition, the ultrasonic generating device 2 of this embodiment has a rear mass block 23, which is disposed on the opposite side of the front mass block 22, sandwiching piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b, so that the ultrasonic waves generated by the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b can propagate in a solid.

[0151] Therefore, by placing the rear mass 23 on the opposite side of the front mass 22, sandwiching the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b (vibrating elements), it is possible to maintain weight balance with the front mass 22. Furthermore, by including the rear mass 23 in the ultrasonic generating device 2, it is suitable for generating ultrasonic waves with, for example, a low frequency of less than 100 kHz. However, the ultrasonic generating device of this disclosure may also be without the rear mass.

[0152] [Variation Example]

[0153] The ultrasonic irradiation apparatus of a modified embodiment will be described below. In the following description, it will be used in conjunction with... Figures 1-4 The description focuses on the differences of the ultrasonic irradiation device 100, and omits detailed descriptions by using the same symbols for the same components.

[0154] [Variation Example 1]

[0155] Figure 5 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the ultrasonic irradiation device 100A according to a variation of embodiment 1. Figure 5 As shown, the ultrasonic irradiation device 100A of Modified Example 1 differs from the ultrasonic irradiation device 100 described above in that the ultrasonic generating device 2 does not have a front mass block 22 and a rear mass block 23, and a container setting part 22b is formed in the drive part 21 (piezoelectric elements 21a, 21b).

[0156] In Modification 1, a container placement portion 22b is formed on the upper surface (axial end face) of the annular piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b (vibration elements) as a space for placing the sample plate 1. That is, the sample plate 1 is placed on the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b. Furthermore, a holding portion 22c for holding the acoustic coupling agent B1 between the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b and the sample plate 1 is formed in annular shape on the upper surface of the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b, with the acoustic coupling agent B1 sandwiched between the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b and the sample plate 1. It should be noted that the acoustic coupling agent B1 may not be inserted between the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b and the sample plate 1, and the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b can directly contact the sample plate 1. The holes in the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b constitute a bearing hole 41 penetrating the ultrasonic wave generating device 2, through which the shaft portion 42 of the rotating mechanism 4 is inserted. It should be noted that the number of piezoelectric elements is not particularly limited; for example, it can be 1 to 4 pieces.

[0157] In the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100A of Modified Example 1, ultrasonic waves generated by piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b are irradiated onto the target solution L1 via solid propagation through piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b and the sample plate 1. According to Modified Example 1, the ultrasonic waves generated by piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b are irradiated onto the target without propagation members such as the front mass block 22, thus suppressing ultrasonic wave attenuation. As a result, energy efficiency can be improved. In addition, since the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100A of Modified Example 1 does not have propagation members such as the front mass block 22, the overall apparatus can be miniaturized. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of temperature, for example, if the temperature is below room temperature (e.g., below 40°C), ultrasonic waves can be stably irradiated even if the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b are in contact with the sample plate 1 without using propagation members such as the front mass block 22. Therefore, the ultrasonic irradiation apparatus 100A of Modified Example 1 can be appropriately used in biological reactions generally carried out below 40°C and in polymer polymerization reactions carried out at around 25°C using only ultrasonic waves.

[0158] [Variation Example 2]

[0159] Figure 6 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the ultrasonic irradiation device 100B according to a variation of embodiment 2. Figure 6 As shown, the ultrasonic irradiation device 100B of Modification 2 is similar to that of Modification 1, except that the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b (vibrating elements) are provided with container mounting portions 22b.

[0160] In Modification 2, the driving part 21 (piezoelectric elements 21a, 21b) extends in a ring shape along a plurality of sample wells 13 arranged in a circumferential pattern. That is, the piezoelectric elements 21a, 21b exist only on the circumference where the sample wells 13 are arranged. In Modification 2, a container placement part 22b is formed on the upper surface (axial end face) of the piezoelectric elements 21a, 21b as a space for placing the sample plate 1. In addition, similar to Modification 1, a holding part 22c for holding the acoustic coupling agent B1 between the piezoelectric elements 21a, 21b and the sample plate 1 is formed in a ring shape on the upper surface of the piezoelectric elements 21a, 21b. The piezoelectric elements 21a, 21b are in contact with the sample plate 1 with the acoustic coupling agent B1 in between. It should be noted that the acoustic coupling agent B1 may not be inserted between the piezoelectric elements 21a, 21b and the sample plate 1, and the piezoelectric elements 21a, 21b and the sample plate 1 may be in direct contact. In addition, the number of piezoelectric elements is not particularly limited, for example, it can be 1 to 4 pieces. Figure 6 As shown, the regions of the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b that are further inward than the holding portion 22c are hollow. Furthermore, in Modification 2, the ultrasonic generating device 2 has a support member 27 inside the drive portion 21 to support the drive portion 21. A bearing hole 41 is formed in the support member 27, penetrating the ultrasonic generating device 2, through which the shaft portion 42 of the rotating mechanism 4 is inserted.

[0161] According to the ultrasonic irradiation device 100B of Modification 2, the same effect as that of Modification 1 can be obtained. That is, since the ultrasonic irradiation device 100B of Modification 2 does not have a propagation component such as the front mass block 22, the overall device can be further miniaturized while improving energy efficiency. In addition, in Modification 2, the piezoelectric elements 21a and 21b are only present on the circumference where the sample well 13 is arranged, so the ultrasonic waves can be irradiated on the sample well 13 more effectively. As a result, energy efficiency can be further improved.

[0162] The embodiments of the ultrasonic irradiation device disclosed herein have been described above. The various methods disclosed in this specification can also be combined with any other features disclosed in this specification.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic irradiation device comprising an ultrasonic wave generating device having a vibrating element that generates ultrasonic waves through vibration. The ultrasonic generating device has a container housing section capable of housing an object to be irradiated, so that the ultrasonic waves generated by the vibrating element are propagated to the object housing, and the object housing houses the object to be irradiated by the ultrasonic waves.

2. The ultrasonic irradiation device according to claim 1, wherein, The ultrasonic wave generating device further includes a first propagation unit that enables the ultrasonic waves to propagate through a solid. The first propagation unit has the container setting unit, which allows the ultrasonic wave to propagate to the irradiated object receiver.

3. The ultrasonic irradiation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The container setting section has a holding part that holds an acoustic coupling agent capable of transmitting ultrasonic waves between the ultrasonic wave generating device and the irradiation object receiving container.

4. The ultrasonic irradiation apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a rotating mechanism that causes the irradiation object holder disposed in the container setting to rotate relative to the ultrasonic generating device about a rotating axis arranged along the arrangement direction of the vibrating element and the container setting.

5. The ultrasonic irradiation device according to claim 4, wherein, The rotating mechanism has: A bearing bore that extends through the ultrasonic generating device along the rotation axis; A shaft portion, which inserts into the bearing hole, is connected to the irradiation object holder in a manner that allows it to rotate integrally with the irradiation object holder; and A rotating device is arranged on the opposite side of the container setting part in the arrangement direction with reference to the vibration element, and is connected to the shaft part so that the shaft part rotates about the rotation axis.

6. The ultrasonic irradiation device according to claim 4, wherein, The object receiving device has one or more receiving sections arranged circumferentially around the rotation axis to receive the object. The container setting section includes a holding section that holds an acoustic coupling agent capable of transmitting ultrasonic waves between the ultrasonic wave generating device and the receiving section. The retaining part is formed as an annular groove extending circumferentially around the rotation axis.

7. The ultrasonic irradiation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The container setting part is formed as a recessed part that can accommodate the irradiated object holder and has an opening on one side. The ultrasonic irradiation device further includes a cover member capable of opening and closing the opening of the recess.

8. The ultrasonic irradiation device according to claim 7, wherein, At least one of the container setting portion and the cover member is provided with a window for measuring the fluorescence of the object from the outside of the recess.

9. The ultrasonic irradiation apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a temperature control device capable of adjusting the temperature of the object.

10. The ultrasonic irradiation device according to claim 2, wherein, The ultrasonic generating device has a second propagation section that enables the ultrasonic waves generated by the vibrating element to propagate in a solid, the second propagation section being disposed on the opposite side of the first propagation section, with the vibrating element sandwiched between them.

11. The ultrasonic irradiation device according to claim 1, wherein, The container assembly is formed on the vibrating element.

12. The ultrasonic irradiation device according to claim 11, wherein, The object receiving device has one or more receiving sections arranged in a circumferential shape to receive the object. The vibrating element extends in a ring shape along one or more sample wells.

13. The ultrasonic irradiation apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the irradiation object receiving container.

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