Liquid delivery device and cell culture equipment containing the same

Abstract

This invention provides a liquid delivery device and a cell culture apparatus incorporating the same. The liquid delivery device is suitable for loading containers and adjusting their height to create a liquid level difference between fluidly connected containers, thereby facilitating liquid delivery between them. Thus, without the need for external power, liquid delivery and flow rate regulation are achieved solely by adjusting the container height to create a liquid level difference with other containers, relying on gravity based on this level difference. Furthermore, liquid delivery based on gravity, achieved through level difference, results in more thorough delivery and less residue buildup. Simultaneously, bidirectional liquid exchange between different containers can be achieved by flexibly adjusting the container's rising or falling height. This invention has wide applications in the field of liquid delivery, particularly in cell culture equipment, enabling various liquid delivery operations in cell culture. It not only greatly simplifies cell culture but also facilitates the automation of cell culture processes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of liquid delivery technology, and more particularly to a liquid delivery device and a cell culture apparatus comprising the same. Background Technology

[0002] In many production, daily life, and experimental fields, liquid transfer between two or more containers is involved. For example, cell culture, especially super cell culture using multilayer cell culture chambers, involves various liquid transfer scenarios, including but not limited to: liquid addition before cell culture; sampling during cell culture; and liquid addition, recovery, collection, and filling after cell culture.

[0003] In existing technologies, liquid transportation often relies on pumping or manual operation, which is not only cumbersome, time-consuming, and labor-intensive, but also makes it difficult to control the flow rate. In addition, liquid residue is prone to remain in the transportation pipeline, which can easily lead to cross-contamination. At the same time, it is impossible to achieve bidirectional transportation between different containers. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a liquid delivery device and a cell culture apparatus incorporating the same. The liquid delivery device is suitable for loading containers and adjusting their height to create a liquid level difference between fluidly connected containers, thereby facilitating liquid delivery between them. Thus, without the need for external power, liquid delivery and flow rate regulation are achieved solely by adjusting the container height to create a liquid level difference with other containers, relying on gravity based on this level difference. Furthermore, liquid delivery based on gravity through level difference ensures more thorough delivery and reduces residue buildup. Simultaneously, bidirectional liquid exchange between different containers can be achieved by flexibly adjusting the container's rising or falling height. This liquid delivery device can be widely applied in many production, daily life, and experimental fields involving liquid delivery between two or more containers. In particular, applying this liquid delivery device to cell culture equipment allows for more flexible and efficient completion of various liquid delivery operations in cell culture, achieving greater convenience in cell culture and streamlining the automation process. This makes the cell culture process more standardized and regulated, and helps improve the consistency, reliability, stability, and safety of cell culture.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is to provide a liquid conveying device.

[0007] Specifically, the liquid conveying device is adapted to load containers and adjust the height of the containers to create a liquid level difference between different fluidly connected containers, thereby enabling the liquid to be conveyed between the different containers.

[0008] In some embodiments, the container includes a first container; the liquid delivery device includes a first loading module; the first loading module is adapted to load the first container and drive the first container to rotate, so as to adjust the height of the first container to create a liquid level difference between the first container and other containers in fluid communication with it, thereby transporting liquid between the first container and the other containers.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first loading module is adapted to raise the height of the first container when rotating the first container to create a positive liquid level difference between the first container and the other containers, so that the liquid in the first container flows to the other containers; or the first loading module is adapted to lower the height of the first container when rotating the first container to create a negative liquid level difference between the first container and the other containers, so that the liquid in the other containers flows to the first container.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first loading module is further adapted to adjust the liquid level difference between the first container and the other containers by adjusting the height of the first container when rotating the first container, thereby adjusting the flow rate of the liquid transported between the first container and the other containers based on the liquid level difference between the first container and the other containers; and / or the first loading module is further adapted to make the liquid in the first container suitable for being shaken or uniformly dispersed when rotating the first container.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first loading module includes a rotating structure; the rotating structure is adapted to load the first container and drive the first container to rotate around a fixed axis direction to adjust the height of the first container so as to create a liquid level difference between the first container and the other containers, thereby allowing liquid to be transported between the first container and the other containers.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first loading module includes at least two of the rotating structures; any one of the at least two rotating structures is adapted to drive the first container loaded thereon to rotate, so as to adjust the height of the first container and create a liquid level difference between the first container and the first containers loaded by other rotating structures, thereby allowing liquid to be transported between the first container and the first containers loaded by other rotating structures.

[0013] In some embodiments, the rotating structure includes at least one loading section; each of the at least one loading section is adapted to load the first container; and the loading sections are arranged sequentially in a radial direction, a circumferential direction, or an axial direction.

[0014] In some embodiments, the rotating structure includes a cylindrical structure; the cylindrical structure is adapted to load the first container through its cylindrical wall and drive the first container to rotate about a non-vertical axis.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the cylindrical structure is adapted to drive the first container to rotate about a horizontal axis.

[0016] In some embodiments, the rotating structure includes a plate-like structure; the plate-like structure is adapted to load the first container on its surface and drive the first container to rotate about a non-vertical axis.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the plate-like structure is adapted to drive the first container to rotate about a horizontal axis.

[0018] In some embodiments, the rotating structure includes a helical structure; the helical structure is adapted to load the first container on its surface and drive the first container to rotate helically about a vertical axis.

[0019] In some embodiments, the liquid delivery device further includes a second loading module adapted to load the other containers; the second loading module is adapted to rotate the other containers in multiple dimensions to adjust the orientation of the other containers.

[0020] In some embodiments, the other container includes a multilayer cell culture vessel; the multilayer cell culture vessel has an upright position, a liquid addition / discharge position, and a balanced position; the second loading module is adapted to rotate the multilayer cell culture vessel so that it rotates between the upright position, the liquid addition / discharge position, and the balanced position.

[0021] Another aspect of the present invention is that a cell culture apparatus is also provided.

[0022] Specifically, the cell culture apparatus includes the liquid delivery device described in this invention; the liquid delivery device is used for liquid delivery in cell culture; the liquid delivery includes at least one of the following:

[0023] The liquid addition procedure before starting cell culture;

[0024] Sampling procedures during cell culture;

[0025] The processes of adding, recovering, collecting, and filling cells after cell culture are completed.

[0026] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects.

[0027] For example, the liquid conveying device provided by this invention is suitable for loading containers and adjusting their height to create a liquid level difference between fluidly connected containers, thereby enabling liquid conveying between the different containers. In this way, without the need for external power, liquid conveying and flow rate regulation can be completed simply by adjusting the height of the container to create a liquid level difference with other containers, relying on the liquid gravity based on the liquid level difference. Moreover, liquid conveying based on liquid gravity based on the liquid level difference results in more thorough conveying and less residue buildup. Simultaneously, bidirectional liquid exchange between different containers can be achieved by flexibly adjusting the rising or falling height of the containers.

[0028] For example, the liquid conveying device provided by the present invention can control the amount of liquid conveyed by combining the liquid flow rate, i.e., the conveying rate, with the conveying time, thereby avoiding the occurrence of insufficient or excessive conveying.

[0029] For example, the liquid conveying device provided by the present invention not only enables more thorough liquid conveying and less residue generation by relying on the gravity of the liquid to drive the liquid flow based on the liquid level difference, but also allows direct fluid communication between different containers that perform liquid exchange, avoiding cross-contamination caused by residual liquid in the pumping pipeline when connecting different containers that perform liquid exchange using external pumping pipelines.

[0030] For example, the liquid conveying device provided by the present invention can adjust the height of the container while shaking or dispersing the liquid in the container evenly, so as to facilitate the conveying and subsequent use of the liquid.

[0031] For example, the liquid conveying device provided by the present invention can not only shake or evenly disperse the liquid in the container while adjusting the height of the container, but also adjust the posture of other containers that are conveying liquid with the container, so that the liquid in the other containers is also suitable to be shaken or evenly dispersed, so as to facilitate the conveying and subsequent use of the liquid.

[0032] For example, the liquid conveying device provided by the present invention can also realize liquid conveying between multiple containers, and can flexibly adjust the same or different liquids to be individually or continuously conveyed between multiple containers according to the actual application scenario and needs. It is very flexible in application and has a wide range of applicability.

[0033] For example, the liquid conveying device provided by the present invention can be widely used in many production, daily life and experimental fields involving the conveying of liquid between two or more containers.

[0034] For example, the liquid delivery device provided by this invention, when applied to cell culture equipment, can flexibly and better complete various liquid delivery operations in cell culture, realize a high degree of convenience in cell culture, and open up the automation links in cell culture, thereby making the cell culture process more standardized and regulated, and helping to improve the consistency, reliability, stability and safety of cell culture.

[0035] For example, in existing technologies, peristaltic pumps are often used to deliver cell culture medium. This not only makes flow rate control difficult, but also requires using liquid delivery clamps as handbrakes. Furthermore, liquid residue in the pump tubing can easily remain, leading to cross-contamination. However, the liquid delivery device provided by this invention allows for simultaneous liquid delivery and rate adjustment simply by adjusting the height of the corresponding container. This is not only easy to implement, but also makes flow rate control easy. Additionally, the container can be directly connected to the corresponding culture vessel or culture chamber, thus avoiding cross-contamination.

[0036] For example, in existing technologies, when using a peristaltic pump to simultaneously add liquid to multiple culture vessels, the culture vessels are usually placed side by side, which easily leads to liquid residue. However, with the liquid delivery device provided by this invention, the corresponding containers are adapted to be directly connected to each of the multiple culture vessels, and the liquid flows to each culture vessel and its corresponding culture chamber by gravity. Therefore, the liquid delivery process is more thorough, and the liquid in the infusion tube is easier to drain completely.

[0037] For example, in existing technologies, it is still necessary to manually suspend the storage bag, such as the stock solution bag, at a high position to facilitate the delivery of the cell stock solution. This is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive, but also prone to falling if the suspension is not handled properly. Furthermore, it is difficult to evenly distribute the cell stock solution within the bag during addition, which is a significant obstacle to automated cell culture operations. However, the liquid delivery device provided by this invention allows the corresponding loading part of the rotating structure suitable for carrying the stock solution bag to be rotated to a lower position. The stock solution bag is then loaded onto the lower loading part, and the height of the bag is raised by rotating the rotating structure. The entire process eliminates the need for manual lifting or support, saving time and labor, and ensuring high safety. Simultaneously, the rotating structure, while driving the stock solution bag to rotate, is also suitable for evenly dispersing or evenly dispersing the cell stock solution within the bag. Moreover, since manual operation is eliminated, it is obviously easier to automate cell culture operations.

[0038] For another example, for a multi-layer cell incubator, in order to avoid the influence of hydrostatic pressure during liquid adding, it is necessary to adjust the position and angle of the culture multiple times, so that the cell stock solution can be uniformly distributed in each layer of cell chamber and smoothly exhausted; meanwhile, in order to avoid the influence of hydrostatic pressure during liquid draining, it is also necessary to adjust the position and angle of the incubator multiple times, so that the liquid in each layer of cell chamber can be completely drained. In the prior art, the adjustment is usually carried out by manually moving the incubator or by means of auxiliary tools. However, these operations are not only time-consuming and labor-intensive, but also obviously an important obstacle to the automated operation of cell culture. By adopting the liquid delivery device provided by the present invention, the posture of the incubator can be automatically adjusted through the second loading module, which is not only time-saving, labor-saving and does not require auxiliary tools, but also improves the consistency and reliability during the process of liquid adding and draining, and furthermore, it is easy to realize the automated operation of cell culture. Description of Drawings

[0039] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of the liquid delivery device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 2 is various schematic diagrams of the rotating structure provided by an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sub Figure 2(a)-2(e) are respectively a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a single-layer circular cylindrical structure, a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a single-layer triangular cylindrical structure, a schematic diagram of a single plate-shaped structure, another schematic diagram of a single plate-shaped structure, and a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a "meter"-shaped plate-shaped structure;

[0041] Figure 3 is another schematic diagram of the liquid delivery device provided by an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the first loading module comprises three rotating structures;

[0042] Figure 4 is another structural schematic diagram of the liquid delivery device provided by an embodiment of the present invention, which comprises the second loading module;

[0043] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of the second loading module provided by an embodiment of the present invention, which is obtained by observing from the back side of the second loading module;

[0044] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a cell culture apparatus provided by an embodiment of the present invention, which is loaded with a liquid storage bag and an incubator;

[0045] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of loading positions of various liquid storage bags in the rotating structure provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 8 shows three placement orientations of the multilayer cell culture device provided in the embodiments of the present invention; wherein, sub-Figure 8(a) is the upright position, sub-Figure 8(b) is the liquid addition / drainage position, and sub-Figure 8(c) is the balanced position;

[0047] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of a liquid conveying method provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0049] 1. Cell culture equipment;

[0050] 10. Liquid conveying devices;

[0051] 11 First loading module, 110 Rotating structure, 110-1 Rotating structure, 110-2 Rotating structure, 110-3 Rotating structure, 111 Loading part;

[0052] 12 Second loading module, 121 First tilting frame, 122 Second tilting frame, 123 Storage compartment, 124 Linkage rod, 124a Slide groove, 125 Hydraulic mechanism, 126 Support;

[0053] Container 20, Container 21 First, Container 21-1 First, Container 21-2-1 First, Container 21-2-2 First, Container 21-3 First, Container 21A Stock solution bag, Container 21B Washing solution bag, Container 21C Digestion solution bag, Container 21D Termination solution bag, Container 21E Supernatant collection bag, Container 21F Washing solution collection bag, Container 12G Cell slurry collection bag, Container 12H Reagent bottle, Container 22 Other, Container 22A Culture vessel, Container 22B Multilayer cell culture vessel;

[0054] 31. Infusion tubing; 32. Manifold;

[0055] l Rotation axis / rotation center. Detailed Implementation

[0056] To make the objectives, features, and beneficial effects of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the specific embodiments described below are merely for explaining the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, descriptions of identical or similar components in different embodiments, as well as descriptions of components, features, effects, etc., belonging to the prior art, may be omitted.

[0057] Furthermore, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the present invention are shown in the accompanying drawings, not the entire structure. Also, the same or similar reference numerals may be used in the drawings to refer to the same or similar components in different embodiments.

[0058] Reference Figure 1 As shown in Figure 8, this embodiment of the invention provides a liquid delivery device 10 and a cell culture device 1 including the same.

[0059] Specifically, the liquid conveying device 10 is adapted to load the container 20 and adjust the height of the container 20 to create a liquid level difference between different fluidly connected containers 20, thereby conveying liquid between the different fluidly connected containers 20.

[0060] In this way, without the need for external power, a liquid level difference is created between the fluid-connected containers 20 simply by adjusting the height of the container 20. Based on the liquid level difference and the gravity of the liquid, the liquid can be transported and the flow rate can be adjusted during the liquid transport process. Moreover, the liquid transport based on the liquid level difference and the gravity of the liquid makes the transport more thorough and less likely to leave residue. At the same time, positive or negative liquid level differences can be created between the fluid-connected containers 20 by flexibly adjusting the rising or falling height of the container 20, thereby realizing bidirectional liquid exchange.

[0061] The liquid conveying device 10 can be widely used in many production, daily life and experimental fields involving the conveying of liquids between two or more fluid-connected containers 20.

[0062] In particular, by applying the liquid delivery device 10 to the cell culture equipment 1, various liquid delivery operations in cell culture can be completed more flexibly and better, achieving a high degree of convenience in cell culture and opening up the automation links in cell culture. This makes the cell culture process more standardized and regulated, and helps to improve the consistency, reliability, stability and safety of cell culture.

[0063] In the field of cell culture technology, especially in super cell culture using multilayer cell culture chambers, various liquid delivery scenarios are involved, including but not limited to: liquid addition operations before the start of cell culture; sampling operations during cell culture; and liquid addition, recovery, collection, and filling operations after the end of cell culture.

[0064] In existing technologies, the delivery of various liquids involved in cell culture is typically performed using either a dispensing gun or a peristaltic pump. Dispensing guns are only suitable for small-volume, low-volume culture media; large-volume media delivery is slow and inefficient. Peristaltic pumps are suitable for large-volume, large-volume culture media delivery, but poor flow rate control can easily agitate cells, especially adherent cells. Furthermore, liquid residue can easily remain in the pump tubing, and using the same pump tubing for different liquid deliveries can lead to cross-contamination.

[0065] Applying the liquid delivery device 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention to the cell culture device 1 not only allows for more thorough liquid delivery and less residue generation by relying on the liquid gravity to drive the liquid flow based on the liquid level difference, but also enables direct fluid communication between different containers 20 that perform liquid exchange, thereby avoiding cross-contamination caused by residual liquid in the pumping pipeline when connecting different containers 20 that perform liquid exchange using external pumping pipelines.

[0066] It is understood that the liquid transport containers 20 provided in the embodiments of the present invention are all fluidly connected. Specifically, any known technical means in the prior art can be used to directly connect different containers 20 in a fluid manner, and this document does not limit this. For example, an infusion tube 31 can be used for direct connection.

[0067] In some embodiments, the liquid delivery device 10 may include a first loading module 11. Correspondingly, the container 20 may include a first container 21.

[0068] In a specific implementation, the first loading module 11 is adapted to load the first container 21 and drive the first container 21 to rotate in order to adjust the height of the first container 21, thereby creating a liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22 in fluid communication with it, so that liquid can be transported between the first container 21 and other containers 22.

[0069] In some embodiments, the first loading module 11 is adapted to raise the height of the first container 21 when it drives the first container 21 to rotate in the forward direction, so as to generate a positive liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22, so that the liquid in the first container 21 flows to the other containers 22.

[0070] In other embodiments, the first loading module 11 is also adapted to reduce the height of the first container 21 when it drives the first container 21 to rotate in the opposite direction, so as to create a negative liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22, so that the liquid in the other containers 22 flows to the first container 21.

[0071] Therefore, by flexibly adjusting the rising or falling height of the first container 21, a positive or negative liquid level difference can be created between the first container 21 and other containers 22, thereby achieving bidirectional liquid exchange between the first container 21 and other containers 22. That is, by adjusting the height of the first container 21, liquid can flow from the first container 21 to other containers 22, or liquid can flow from other containers 22 to the first container 21.

[0072] In practice, the specific flow direction of the liquid can be adjusted by changing the height of the first container 21 according to the actual application scenario and needs. When it is necessary to transfer liquid from the first container 21 to other containers 22, it is suitable to raise the height of the first container 21 to create a positive liquid level difference between it and other containers 22, so that the liquid flows from the first container 21 to other containers 22 by gravity. When it is necessary to transfer liquid from other containers 22 to the first container 21, it is suitable to lower the height of the first container 21 to create a negative liquid level difference between it and other containers 22, so that the liquid flows from other containers 22 to the first container 21 by gravity.

[0073] In this embodiment of the invention, the height of the other containers 22 that are in fluid communication with the first container 21 can remain constant or be changed. In a specific implementation, a liquid level difference can be created between the first container 21 and the other containers 22 by adjusting the height of the first container 21.

[0074] In practice, the height of the first container 21 can be adjusted by the rotation angle of the first loading module 11. The specific adjustment depends on the actual application scenario and requirements.

[0075] With the delivery pipeline unchanged, the greater the liquid level difference between the first container 21 and the other containers 22, the greater the flow rate of liquid delivery between the first container 21 and the other containers 22 based on the liquid level difference. Therefore, in this embodiment of the invention, it is also suitable to adjust the liquid flow rate between the first container 21 and the other containers 22 based on the magnitude of the liquid level difference between the first container 21 and the other containers 22.

[0076] Specifically, the first loading module 11 is also adapted to adjust the liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22 by adjusting the height of the first container 21 when rotating the first container 21, thereby adjusting the flow rate of the liquid transported between the first container 21 and other containers 22 based on the size of the liquid level difference.

[0077] In some embodiments, the first loading module 11 is also adapted to make the liquid in the first container 21 suitable for being shaken or evenly dispersed when the first container 21 is rotated.

[0078] In some embodiments, the first loading module 11 includes a rotating structure 110.

[0079] In a specific implementation, the rotating structure 110 is adapted to load the first container 21 and drive the first container 21 to rotate around a fixed axis direction, so as to adjust the height of the first container 21 and create a liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22, thereby allowing the liquid to be transported between the first container 21 and other containers 22.

[0080] In some embodiments, the rotating structure 110 is adapted to load the first container 21 and drive the first container 21 to rotate about a non-vertical axis, so as to adjust the height of the first container 21 and at the same time make the liquid in the first container 21 suitable for being shaken or evenly dispersed.

[0081] In a further embodiment, the rotating structure 110 is also adapted to load the first container 21 and drive the first container 21 to rotate around a horizontal axis, so as to quickly adjust the height of the first container 21 and at the same time make the liquid in the first container 21 better shaken or evenly dispersed.

[0082] Since the rotating structure 110 is adapted to drive the first container 21 to rotate around a non-vertical axis direction, especially the horizontal axis direction, the first container 21 is adapted to rise or fall in the vertical direction during the rotation around the non-vertical axis direction, especially the horizontal axis direction. This makes the first container 21 suitable for rising or falling relative to the other containers 22, thereby making it suitable for a liquid level difference to exist between the first container 21 and the other containers 22, so as to transport liquid between the first container 21 and the other containers 22 by means of the liquid level difference.

[0083] Under the same conditions, it is understandable that the rotation of the rotating structure 110 around the horizontal axis is more efficient in adjusting the height of the first container 21 than rotation around other non-horizontal axes or non-vertical axes.

[0084] Furthermore, as the rotating structure 110 drives the first container 21 to rotate around a non-vertical axis, especially around a horizontal axis, the liquid contained in the first container 21 can be shaken evenly or dispersed uniformly.

[0085] In other embodiments, the rotating structure 110 is also adapted to load the first container 21 and drive the first container 21 to rotate spirally up or down around the vertical axis to adjust the height of the first container 21.

[0086] Since the rotating structure 110 is adapted to drive the first container 21 to rotate spirally around the vertical axis and rise or fall, the first container 21 is adapted to rise or fall vertically during the rotation, thereby making the first container 21 suitable to rise or fall relative to the other containers 22, and thus making it suitable for a liquid level difference to exist between the first container 21 and the other containers 22, so as to transport liquid between the first container 21 and the other containers 22 by means of the liquid level difference.

[0087] Furthermore, during the process of the rotating structure 110 driving the first container 21 to spirally rotate and rise or fall around the vertical axis, the liquid contained in the first container 21 can also be shaken evenly or dispersed uniformly.

[0088] In some embodiments, the rotating structure 110 may include a cylindrical structure. The cylindrical structure is adapted to load the first container 21 through its cylindrical wall and drive the first container 21 to rotate about a non-vertical axis.

[0089] In a further embodiment, the cylindrical structure is also adapted to drive the first container 21 to rotate around a horizontal axis.

[0090] In a further embodiment, the cylindrical structure is also adapted to drive the first container 21 to rotate about its own central axis.

[0091] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of the present invention, the cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical structure is not limited, and may include, but is not limited to: circular, elliptical, triangular, quadrilateral, or polygonal shapes, etc.

[0092] In other embodiments, the rotating structure 110 may also include a plate-like structure. The plate-like structure is adapted to mount the first container 21 on its surface and drive the first container 21 to rotate about a non-vertical axis.

[0093] In a further embodiment, the plate-like structure is also adapted to drive the first container 21 to rotate around a horizontal axis.

[0094] In a further embodiment, the plate-like structure is also adapted to drive the first container 21 to rotate about one of its own axes. For example, a rectangular plate-like structure is adapted to mount the first container 21 on its plate surface and drive the first container 21 to rotate about one of its own horizontal axes; wherein, the horizontal axis may be located in the middle of the rectangular plate-like structure or at the bottom of the rectangular plate-like structure, including the bottom edge.

[0095] In some other embodiments, the rotating structure 110 may also include a helical structure. The helical structure is adapted to load the first container 21 on its surface and drive the first container 21 to rotate helically about a vertical axis, rising or falling.

[0096] In a further embodiment, the spiral structure is also adapted to drive the first container 21 to spirally rotate around its own vertical central axis to rise or fall.

[0097] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of the present invention, the rotation driving method and / or driving source of various rotating structures 110 can be implemented by any known technical means in the prior art, and no limitation is made herein. For example, a motor drive can be used.

[0098] In some embodiments, the rotating structure 110 may comprise at least one loading portion 111. Wherein, each of the at least one loading portion 111 is adapted to be sequentially arranged in a radial direction, a circumferential direction, or an axial direction respectively; and each of the at least one loading portion 111 is adapted to carry the first container 21.

[0099] In some embodiments, each of the at least one loading portion 111 is sequentially arranged in a radial direction respectively. For example, the rotating structure 110 may comprise at least one layer of cylindrical structure or at least one layer of spiral structure arranged in a radial direction; said at least one layer of cylindrical structure or at least one layer of spiral structure can each serve as the loading portion 111, and each of the loading portions 111 is adapted to carry the first container 21. For another example, the rotating structure 110 may further comprise at least one plate-shaped structure arranged in a radial direction; each of the at least one plate-shaped structure can serve as the loading portion 111 for carrying the first container 21.

[0100] Further, for the cylindrical structure, it is adapted to use its side wall as the loading portion 111. And the side wall comprises at least one of an inner circumferential side wall and an outer circumferential side wall. For the spiral structure and the plate-shaped structure, it is adapted to use their surfaces as the loading portion 111.

[0101] In other embodiments, each of the at least one loading portion 111 is adapted to be sequentially arranged in a circumferential direction respectively. For example, for the cylindrical structure, the at least one loading portion 111 is adapted to be sequentially arranged on its side wall along the circumferential direction. For the spiral structure, the at least one loading portion 111 is also adapted to be sequentially arranged on its surface along the circumferential direction. For the plate-shaped structure, it is adapted to comprise at least one plate-shaped structure respectively arranged in a radial direction and arranged radially around the circumferential direction, wherein each plate-shaped structure is adapted to serve as one loading portion 111; and in some examples, the cross-section of said at least one plate-shaped structure as a whole is similar to a Chinese character "mi" (rice) shape.

[0102] In still other embodiments, each of the at least one loading portion 111 is adapted to be sequentially arranged in an axial direction respectively. For example, for the cylindrical structure, the spiral structure and the plate-shaped structure, the at least one loading portion 111 is adapted to be sequentially arranged on their side walls or surfaces along the axial direction.

[0103] It can be understood that the at least one loading portion 111 may also have other suitable arrangements and arrangement manners in various rotating structures 110, the above are only examples, and are not intended to limit the arrangement and arrangement manners of the loading portion 111 in various rotating structures 110.

[0104] In some embodiments, the first container 21 may be in the form of a liquid storage bag.

[0105] In other embodiments, the first container 21 may also take any other form known and applicable in the prior art.

[0106] In specific implementations, any known technical means in the prior art can be used to load the first container 21 into the loading part 111, and this document does not impose any limitations. For example, in some examples, the loading part 111 is adapted to be in the form of a loading chamber for accommodating the loading of the first container 21. In other examples, the first container 21 can be snapped onto the loading part 111 using a snap-fit ​​method. In yet another example, the first container 21, in the form of a liquid storage bag, can be fixed to the loading part 111 using an adhesive method.

[0107] As mentioned above, in this embodiment of the invention, the height of the other containers 22 that are in fluid communication with the first container 21 can remain constant or be changed. In a specific implementation, a liquid level difference can be created between the first container 21 and the other containers 22 by adjusting the height of the first container 21.

[0108] In specific implementation, the height of the first container 21 is suitable for adjustment by the rotation angle of the rotating structure 110 mounted on it. Specifically, the rotation angle of the rotating structure 110 can be adjusted according to the actual application scenario and needs.

[0109] As previously described, the first loading module 11 is also adapted to adjust the liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22 by adjusting the height of the first container 21 when rotating the first container 21, thereby adjusting the flow rate of liquid transported between the first container 21 and other containers 22 based on the size of the liquid level difference. Correspondingly, it is also adapted to adjust the liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22 by adjusting the height of the first container 21 when rotating the first container 21 via the rotating structure 110, thereby adjusting the flow rate of liquid transported between the first container 21 and other containers 22 based on the size of the liquid level difference.

[0110] As previously described, the first loading module 11 is also adapted to make the liquid in the first container 21 suitable for being shaken or evenly dispersed when rotating the first container 21. Correspondingly, the rotating structure 110 is also adapted to make the liquid in the first container 21 suitable for being shaken or evenly dispersed when rotating the first container 21.

[0111] In some embodiments, the first loading module 11 includes at least two rotating structures 110.

[0112] In a specific implementation, any one of the at least two rotating structures 110 is adapted to drive the first container 21 it carries to rotate, thereby adjusting the height of the first container 21 and creating a liquid level difference between the first container 21 and the first containers 21 carried by other rotating structures 110, so that liquid can be transported between the first container 21 and the first containers 21 carried by other rotating structures 110. The first containers 21 used for liquid transport are in fluid communication with each other.

[0113] In this way, multiple rotating structures 110 can be used to transport liquid between multiple first containers 21.

[0114] In some embodiments, the same liquid may be continuously transported in each of the first containers 21 respectively loaded in the plurality of rotating structures 110, or the same liquid may be transported individually in the first containers 21 respectively loaded in pairs of rotating structures 110.

[0115] For example, the first loading module 11 includes three rotating structures 110, namely rotating structures 110-1, 110-2, and 110-3, which respectively load the first containers 21-1, 21-2, and 21-3. In some examples, liquid L can be sequentially transported along the first containers 21-1, 21-2, and 21-3. In other examples, liquid L can be transported first from the first container 21-1 to the first container 21-2, and then from the first container 21-2 to the first container 21-3.

[0116] In other embodiments, different liquids may be transported synchronously in each of the first containers 21 loaded in the multiple rotating structures 110, or different liquids may be transported separately in two first containers 21 loaded in pairs of rotating structures 110.

[0117] For example, the first loading module 11 also includes three rotating structures 110, namely rotating structures 110-1, 110-2, and 110-3. Rotating structure 110-1 loads the first container 21-1, rotating structure 110-2 loads the first containers 21-2-1 and 21-2-2, and rotating structure 110-3 loads the first container 21-3. In some examples, liquid L can be transported from the first container 21-1 to the first container 21-2-1 simultaneously with liquid M being transported from the first container 21-2-2 to the first container 21-3. In other examples, liquid L can be transported from the first container 21-1 to the first container 21-2-1 first, and then liquid M can be transported from the first container 21-2-2 to the first container 21-3.

[0118] In this embodiment of the invention, the same or different liquids can be flexibly transported between multiple first containers 21 according to the actual application scenario and needs. During the transport process, the height of the corresponding first container 21 can be adjusted by the rotation angle of the corresponding rotating structure 110.

[0119] When liquid is being transported between first containers 21 mounted on at least two rotating structures 110, each of the at least two rotating structures 110 is adapted to drive the first container 21 it mounts to rotate, thereby adjusting the height of the first container 21 and creating a liquid level difference between the first container 21 and the first containers 21 mounted on other rotating structures 110, thus allowing liquid to be transported between the first container 21 and the first containers 21 mounted on other rotating structures 110. Each associated rotating structure 110 is adapted to drive the first container 21 it mounts to rotate individually, or to drive the first containers 21 mounted on each associated rotating structure 110 to rotate simultaneously.

[0120] As mentioned above, in this embodiment of the invention, the height of the other containers 22 that are in fluid communication with the first container 21 can be either constant or variable. In specific implementations, a liquid level difference can be created between the first container 21 and the other containers 22 by adjusting the height of the first container 21. However, when at least two rotating structures 110 are used, the height of the first container 21 loaded on each rotating structure 110 can be flexibly changed or kept constant, and liquid transportation can be implemented by adjusting the height of the corresponding first container 21 with which it is transported.

[0121] As previously described, the rotating structure 110 is adapted to adjust the liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22 by adjusting the height of the first container 21 when rotating the first container 21, thereby adjusting the flow rate of the liquid transported between the first container 21 and other containers 22. When at least two rotating structures 110 are used, it is adapted to adjust the liquid level difference between the corresponding first containers 21 in which the liquid is transported by adjusting the rotation angle of the corresponding rotating structure 110, thereby adjusting the flow rate of the liquid transported therebetween.

[0122] In some embodiments, the liquid delivery device 10 further includes a second loading module 12 adapted to load other containers 22.

[0123] In a specific implementation, the second loading module 12 is adapted to load other containers 22 and drive the other containers 22 to rotate in multiple dimensions to adjust the posture of the other containers 22. In this way, at least the liquid in the other containers 22 can be shaken evenly or dispersed uniformly.

[0124] In some embodiments, the second loading module 12 includes a first tilting frame 121 and a second tilting frame 122. The first tilting frame 121 is adapted to load other containers 22; the second tilting frame 122 is rotatably connected to the first tilting frame 121.

[0125] In specific implementation, the first tilting frame 121 is adapted to tilt other containers 22 in the first direction; or the second tilting frame 122 is adapted to tilt the first tilting frame 121 and other containers 22 loaded thereon in the second direction; or the second tilting frame 122 is adapted to tilt the first tilting frame 121 and other containers 22 loaded thereon in the second direction at the same time as the first tilting frame 121 tilts other containers 22 in the first direction.

[0126] In this way, not only can other containers 22 be flipped individually along the first or second direction, but other containers 22 can also be flipped in combination along the first and second directions, thereby enabling flexible adjustment of the posture of other containers 22 and making them suitable for flipping in multiple dimensions.

[0127] In some embodiments, the first direction can be left-right and the second direction can be front-back. In this way, not only can other containers 22 be flipped individually in the left-right or front-back direction, but other containers 22 can also be flipped simultaneously in both the left-right and front-back directions.

[0128] In practice, the flipping angles of the first flipping frame 121 and the second flipping frame 122 are determined based on the actual application scenario and needs.

[0129] In some embodiments, the second tilting frame 122 is adapted to be connected to a hydraulic mechanism 125 via a connecting rod 124, and tilts back and forth under the drive of the hydraulic mechanism 125. Specifically, one end of the connecting rod 124 is connected to the second tilting frame 122, and the other end of the connecting rod 124 is connected to the hydraulic mechanism 125. In a specific implementation, the hydraulic mechanism 125 is adapted to drive the other end of the connecting rod 124 to move up and down, and drive the second tilting frame 122 connected to one end of the connecting rod 124 to tilt back and forth.

[0130] In some embodiments, the attitude adjustment mechanism 12 further includes a support 126. The second tilting frame 122 is rotatably connected to the support 126 at the part where it is connected to the connecting rod 124; wherein the support 126 is adapted to support the second tilting frame 122, and the second tilting frame 122 is adapted to tilt back and forth relative to the support 126 under the drive of the connecting rod 124.

[0131] Furthermore, the other end of the connecting rod 124 connected to the hydraulic mechanism 125 also has a groove 127. The upper end of the hydraulic mechanism 125 is slidably connected to the other end of the connecting rod 124 through the groove 127. When the hydraulic mechanism 125 moves upward, its upper end is adapted to move outward along the groove 127 and drive the other end of the connecting rod 124 to move upward, thereby driving the second tilting frame 122 to tilt forward through one end of the connecting rod 124; when the hydraulic mechanism 125 moves downward, its upper end is adapted to move inward along the groove 127 and drive the other end of the connecting rod 124 to move downward, thereby driving the second tilting frame 122 to tilt backward through one end of the connecting rod 124.

[0132] In some embodiments, the first tilting frame 121 is adapted to tilt left and right directly by a motor drive. Simultaneously, the first tilting frame 121 and the second tilting frame 122 are rotatably connected left and right. In some examples, the first tilting frame 121 and the second tilting frame 122 are adapted to be rotatably connected left and right via bearings. In other examples, the first tilting frame 121 and the second tilting frame 122 are also adapted to be rotatably connected left and right via gear meshing, i.e., connected by two meshing gears, one gear connected to the first tilting frame 121 and the other gear connected to the second tilting frame 122.

[0133] In some embodiments, the first tilting frame 121 is adapted to tilt other containers 22 left and right. In this case, the first tilting frame 121 is tilted left and right only by a motor.

[0134] In other embodiments, the second tilting frame 122 is adapted to tilt the first tilting frame 121 and its loaded containers 22 back and forth. In this case, the second tilting frame 122 is tilted back and forth only by the hydraulic mechanism 125 and the connecting rod 124, and in turn, the second tilting frame 122 tilts the first tilting frame 121 and its loaded containers 22 back and forth. Since the first tilting frame 121 and the second tilting frame 122 are rotatably connected, when the second tilting frame 122 is tilted back and forth only by the hydraulic mechanism 125 and the connecting rod 124, and the second tilting frame 122 tilts the first tilting frame 121 and its loaded containers 22 back and forth, the first tilting frame 121 will not rotate left and right relative to the second tilting frame 122.

[0135] In some other embodiments, the second tilting frame 122 is adapted to tilt the first tilting frame 121 and its loaded containers 22 forward and backward while the first tilting frame 121 tilts the other containers 22 left and right. In this case, the second tilting frame 122 is not only driven to tilt forward and backward by the hydraulic mechanism 125 and the connecting rod 124, and the second tilting frame 122 drives the first tilting frame 121 and its loaded containers 22 to tilt forward and backward, but also the first tilting frame 121 is driven to tilt left and right by a motor.

[0136] In this way, the orientation of other containers can be flexibly adjusted, making them suitable for flipping in multiple dimensions.

[0137] In some embodiments, the first flipping rack 121 has at least one storage compartment 123 for loading other containers 22, respectively.

[0138] In a further embodiment, the storage compartments 123 may be presented in a multi-layered and / or multi-column manner, wherein each storage compartment 123 is used to load other containers 22 respectively. For example, the first flip rack 121 may include two columns of storage compartments 123 on the left and right, and each column of storage compartments 123 may include three storage compartments 123 arranged vertically in sequence; thus, the first flip rack 121 includes six storage compartments 123, wherein each storage compartment 123 is adapted to load one other container 22 respectively.

[0139] It is understood that other containers 22 are suitable for stable placement within the storage compartment 123 to prevent them from falling out. The specific method used can be any known technical means in the prior art, and this document does not limit it.

[0140] In other embodiments, the second loading module 12 may also adopt any other implementation form known in the prior art, which is not limited herein.

[0141] By employing the liquid conveying device 10 through the above-described technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present invention, at least the following beneficial effects can be achieved:

[0142] For example, the liquid conveying device 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention is suitable for loading a container 20 and adjusting the height of the container 20 to generate a liquid level difference between different fluidly connected containers 20, thereby enabling liquid to be conveyed between the different containers 20. In this way, without the need for external power, the liquid level difference between the container 20 and other containers 20 is generated simply by adjusting the height of the container 20. Based on the liquid level difference and relying on the gravity of the liquid, liquid conveying and flow rate regulation can be completed. Moreover, liquid conveying based on the liquid level difference and relying on the gravity of the liquid makes the conveying more thorough and less likely to leave residue. At the same time, bidirectional liquid exchange between different containers 20 can also be achieved by flexibly adjusting the rising or falling height of the container 20.

[0143] For example, the liquid conveying device 10 provided in the embodiments of the present invention can control the amount of liquid conveyed by combining the liquid flow rate, i.e., the conveying rate, with the conveying time, thereby avoiding the occurrence of insufficient or excessive conveying.

[0144] For example, the liquid conveying device 10 provided in the embodiments of the present invention not only enables liquid conveying to be more thorough and less prone to residue by relying on the liquid gravity to drive the liquid flow based on the liquid level difference, but also allows direct fluid communication between different containers 20 that perform liquid exchange, avoiding cross-contamination caused by residual liquid in the pumping pipeline when connecting different containers 20 that perform liquid exchange through external pumping pipelines.

[0145] For example, the liquid conveying device 10 provided in the embodiments of the present invention can shake or evenly disperse the liquid in the container 20 while adjusting the height of the container 20, so as to facilitate the conveying and subsequent use of the liquid.

[0146] For example, the liquid conveying device 10 provided in the embodiments of the present invention can not only shake or evenly disperse the liquid in the container 20 while adjusting the height of the container 20, but also adjust the posture of other containers 20 that are conveying liquid with the container 20, so that the liquid in other containers 20 is also suitable to be shaken or evenly dispersed, so as to facilitate the conveying and subsequent use of the liquid.

[0147] For example, the liquid conveying device 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention can also realize liquid conveying between multiple containers 20, and can flexibly adjust the same or different liquids to be individually or continuously conveyed between multiple containers 20 according to the actual application scenario and needs. It is very flexible in application and has a wide range of applicability.

[0148] Therefore, the liquid conveying device 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention can be widely used in many production, daily life and experimental fields involving liquid conveying between two or more containers 20.

[0149] In particular, by applying the liquid delivery device 10 provided in the embodiments of the present invention to the cell culture equipment 1, various liquid delivery operations in cell culture can be completed more flexibly and better, achieving a high degree of convenience in cell culture and opening up the automation links in cell culture, thereby making the cell culture process more standardized and regulated, and helping to improve the consistency, reliability, stability and safety of cell culture.

[0150] This invention also provides a cell culture device 1.

[0151] Specifically, the cell culture device 1 includes a liquid delivery device 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention. The liquid delivery device 10 is used for liquid delivery during cell culture.

[0152] In the field of cell culture technology, especially in super cell culture using multilayer cell culture chambers, various liquid delivery scenarios are involved, including but not limited to: liquid addition operations before the start of cell culture; sampling operations during cell culture; and liquid addition, recovery, collection, and filling operations after the end of cell culture.

[0153] In this embodiment of the invention, the liquid delivery device 10 in the cell culture apparatus 1 can also be used for at least one of the following liquid delivery operations in cell culture:

[0154] The liquid addition procedure before starting cell culture;

[0155] Sampling procedures during cell culture;

[0156] The processes of adding, recovering, collecting, and filling cells after cell culture are completed.

[0157] In some embodiments, the liquid addition operation before cell culture may include, but is not limited to: inoculating stock solution; the sampling operation during cell culture may include, but is not limited to: extracting cell culture medium; the liquid addition, recovery, collection, and filling operations after cell culture may include, but are not limited to: collecting supernatant, adding washing solution, recovering washing solution, adding digestion solution, adding stop solution, collecting cell fluid, and filling cell fluid, i.e., dispensing cell fluid.

[0158] In practice, all of the above operations involve liquid transfer. Specifically, the inoculation process requires transferring the cell culture medium from the stock solution bag 21A to the culture vessel 22A; during cell culture, due to sampling and observation requirements, the cell culture medium needs to be transferred from the culture vessel 22A to the corresponding reagent bottle 21H; after cell culture, the collection of supernatant requires transferring the supernatant from the culture vessel 22A to the supernatant collection bag 21E; the addition of washing solution requires transferring the washing solution from the washing solution bag 21B to the culture vessel 22A; the recovery of washing solution requires transferring the washing solution from the culture vessel 22A to the washing solution collection bag 21F; and the addition of digestion solution requires transferring the digestion solution from the digestion solution bag 21C. The process involves transferring the stop solution from the stop solution bag 21D to the culture vessel 22A; the process of collecting cell fluid involves transferring the cultured cell fluid from the culture vessel 22A to the cell fluid collection bag 12G; the process of filling cell fluid involves dispensing the cultured and appropriately treated cell fluid from the cell fluid bag into a syringe or injection needle, and then dispensing the cell fluid into the corresponding cryopreservation bottle using the syringe or injection needle. The operation of dispensing the cultured and appropriately treated cell fluid from the cell fluid bag into the syringe or injection needle is suitable for implementation by the liquid delivery device 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention.

[0159] In specific implementations, the cell stock solution mentioned in this invention refers to a cell fluid that can be directly used for cell culture; the cell fluid may undergo appropriate treatment before being used directly for cell culture. Specifically, the cell stock solution may include adherent cell stock solution or suspension cell stock solution.

[0160] In some embodiments, the stock solution bag 21A, washing solution bag 21B, digestion solution bag 21C, termination solution bag 21D, supernatant collection bag 21E, washing solution collection bag 21F, cell fluid collection bag 12G, and reagent bottle 12H can all be loaded as first containers 21 onto the rotating structure 110 of the first loading module 11. For example, they can be loaded onto the cylindrical rotating structure 110, and the rotating structure 110 can include two layers of cylindrical structures arranged sequentially in the radial direction; wherein, the outer cylindrical structure has four loading parts 111 arranged sequentially in the circumferential direction for loading the stock solution bag 21A, washing solution bag 21B, digestion solution bag 21C, and termination solution bag 21D respectively, and the inner cylindrical structure has four loading parts 111 arranged sequentially in the circumferential direction for loading the supernatant collection bag 21E, washing solution collection bag 21F, cell fluid collection bag 12G, and reagent bottle 12H respectively.

[0161] In a preferred example, the rotating structure 110 is adapted to rotate about a horizontal axis. This improves the power efficiency of the rotation process.

[0162] In practical implementation, the two-layer cylindrical structure is suitable for coaxial arrangement, that is, the rotation axes of the two coincide; however, the rotation of the two is suitable for independent control, including the timing of rotation, rotation speed and rotation angle, etc., which can be controlled independently according to actual needs; of course, under the condition of meeting actual needs, the two are also suitable for synchronous control or linkage control.

[0163] The rotation control of the coaxial two-layer cylindrical structure, including independent control, synchronous control or linkage control, can be achieved by any known technical means in the prior art, and this article does not limit it.

[0164] In some embodiments, the culture vessel 22A can be loaded into the second loading module 12. For super cell culture in a multilayer cell culture chamber, multiple sets of multilayer cell culture vessels can be loaded into the storage compartments 123 of the second loading module 12.

[0165] In some embodiments, the first loading module 11 and the second loading module 12 are adapted to be arranged side by side. This facilitates efficient use of space and makes it easier to load and unload the first container 21 and the incubator 22A onto the first loading module 11 and the second loading module 12.

[0166] In specific implementation, after loading the stock solution bag 21A, washing solution bag 21B, digestion solution bag 21C, termination solution bag 21D, supernatant collection bag 21E, washing solution collection bag 21F, cell fluid collection bag 12G, reagent bottle 12H, and corresponding culture vessel 22A respectively, based on the liquid transport relationship, the stock solution bag 21A, washing solution bag 21B, digestion solution bag 21C, termination solution bag 21D, supernatant collection bag 21E, washing solution collection bag 21F, cell fluid collection bag 12G, reagent bottle 12H and corresponding culture vessel 22A are directly fluidly connected through the infusion tube 31. Among them, the culture vessel 22A is suitable to include a multilayer cell culture vessel 22B.

[0167] It is understood that the loading of the stock solution bag 21A, washing solution bag 21B, digestion solution bag 21C, stop solution bag 21D, supernatant collection bag 21E, washing solution collection bag 21F, cell sap collection bag 12G, reagent bottle 12H, and the corresponding culture vessel 22A is all suitable for stable loading to prevent detachment. The specific stabilization method can be achieved using any known technical means in the prior art, and this document does not limit it.

[0168] Taking the aforementioned rotating structure 110, which includes a two-layer cylindrical structure, as an example, when it is necessary to inoculate the stock solution, that is, when it is necessary to transport the stock solution from the stock solution bag 21A to the corresponding culture vessel 22A, it is suitable to drive the stock solution bag 21A loaded thereon to rotate through the corresponding cylindrical structure in the rotating structure 110, so as to adjust the height of the stock solution bag 21A and generate a positive liquid level difference between the stock solution bag 21A and the corresponding culture vessel 22A that is in fluid communication with it, so that the stock solution in the stock solution bag 21A flows to the corresponding culture vessel 22A by gravity.

[0169] In specific implementation, it is also suitable to adjust the liquid level difference between the stock solution bag 21A and the corresponding culture vessel 22A by controlling the rotation angle of the corresponding cylindrical structure to adjust the height of the first container 21, thereby adjusting the flow rate of the cell stock solution transported between the stock solution bag 21A and the corresponding culture vessel 22A.

[0170] In existing technologies, peristaltic pumps are often used to deliver cell stock solutions. However, the flow rate is difficult to control, and liquid delivery pipe clamps are sometimes used as handbrakes. Furthermore, liquid residue is easily left in the pumping pipes, which can lead to cross-contamination.

[0171] By adopting the technical solution of this invention, the height of the stock solution bag 21A can be adjusted by controlling the rotation angle of the rotating structure 110, and the delivery rate can be adjusted at the same time as the delivery of cell stock solution. This is not only easy to implement, but also makes the flow rate easy to control. At the same time, the stock solution bag 21A and the corresponding culture vessel 22A are directly connected, which can also avoid cross-contamination.

[0172] Furthermore, combining delivery rate with delivery time is also suitable for controlling the delivery volume of cell stock solution to avoid under- or over-delivery.

[0173] In addition, in the prior art, when using a peristaltic pump to simultaneously add liquid to multiple culture vessels 22A, the multiple culture vessels 22A are usually placed side by side or in parallel, which can easily cause liquid residue.

[0174] By adopting the technical solution provided in the embodiments of the present invention, the stock solution bag 21A is suitable for direct connection to each of the multiple groups of culture vessels 22A, and the cell stock solution flows to each culture vessel 22A by gravity. Therefore, the cell stock solution delivery process is more thorough, and the cell stock solution in the infusion tube 31 is easier to drain.

[0175] Meanwhile, in existing technologies, the traditional method of manually suspending the bulk solution bag 21A at a high position is still required to facilitate the delivery of the cell culture medium. This is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive, but also prone to causing the bulk solution bag 21A to fall if the suspension is not handled properly. Furthermore, it is difficult to mix the cell culture medium in the bulk solution bag 21A during the addition of the medium, which is also a significant obstacle to the automation of cell culture operations.

[0176] By adopting the technical solution provided in the embodiments of the present invention, the corresponding loading part 111 of the rotating structure 110 suitable for carrying the stock solution bag 21A can be rotated to a lower position first, and then the stock solution bag 21A can be loaded into the loading part 111 at the lower position. Then, the height of the stock solution bag 21A can be raised by rotating the rotating structure 110 on which it is mounted. The whole process does not require manual lifting, which not only saves time and effort, but also has high safety. At the same time, when the rotating structure 110 drives the stock solution bag 21A to rotate, it is also suitable for shaking the cell stock solution in the stock solution bag 21 evenly. This obviously also makes it easy to realize the automated operation of cell culture.

[0177] Furthermore, for the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B, during the process of adding cell stock solution from the stock solution bag 21A to the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B, the position and angle of the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B need to be adjusted multiple times to avoid the influence of hydrostatic pressure, ensuring that the cell stock solution is evenly distributed in each cell chamber and that air is expelled smoothly. Simultaneously, during the process of transferring cultured cell solution from the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B to the cell solution collection bag 12G, the position and angle of the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B also need to be adjusted multiple times to avoid the influence of hydrostatic pressure, ensuring that the liquid in each cell chamber is completely drained. In existing technologies, adjustments are typically made manually by moving the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B, or with the aid of auxiliary tools such as the HYPERStack operating panel. However, these operations are time-consuming and labor-intensive, and are significant obstacles to the automation of cell culture operations.

[0178] The technical solution provided in this embodiment of the invention allows for automatic adjustment of the position and angle of the multilayer cell culture device 22B via the second loading module 12. This not only saves time and effort and eliminates the need for auxiliary tools, but also improves the consistency and reliability of the liquid addition and drainage processes. Furthermore, it facilitates the automation of cell culture operations.

[0179] Specifically, the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B has an upright position, a liquid addition / drainage position, and a balanced position. The upright position is the conventional placement of the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B, in which the two sets of manifolds 32 are located on the sides of the vessel and arranged vertically. This position is used during cell culture. The liquid addition / drainage position involves placing the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B on its side. In this position, the two sets of manifolds 32 are also located on the sides of the vessel but arranged horizontally. This position is suitable for adding or draining liquid. The balanced position involves flipping the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B so that the two sets of manifolds 32 are at the top. This position, also known as the liquid distribution direction, is suitable for evenly distributing liquid among the multilayer cell culture chambers during liquid addition and for draining liquid from each cell culture chamber during liquid drainage.

[0180] In some embodiments, the second loading module 12 is adapted to flip the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B between an upright position, a liquid addition / discharge position, and a balanced position.

[0181] In some embodiments, the multilayer cell culture device 22B is adapted to be loaded into the storage compartment 123 of the first flipping frame 121 at the liquid addition / discharge position.

[0182] During liquid addition, the first rotating frame 121 and its loaded multilayer cell culture vessel 22B can be rotated backward by the second rotating frame 122, raising the front end of the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B (the end where the manifold 32 is located) by a certain angle, such as 10 degrees. Then, the liquid storage bag is rotated by the rotating structure 110 in the first loading module 11 to adjust the height of the liquid storage bag, allowing the liquid to be transported from the liquid storage bag to the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B (note the need for venting during this process). At the same time, the liquid addition rate can also be adjusted by rotating the liquid storage bag by the rotating structure 110 in the first loading module 11 to adjust the height of the liquid storage bag. Note that the liquid addition rate should not be too fast to avoid wetting the air filter of the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B, which would prevent air from being discharged. For example, the liquid addition rate can be adjusted to 1. -2 liters / minute. When the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B is filled to three-quarters full, the liquid addition rate should be reduced to slow down the rate of liquid inflow into the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B and prevent overfilling. When the liquid level is close to full, the liquid delivery is stopped, and the first flipping frame 121 and the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B loaded thereon are flipped backward by the second flipping frame 122, so that the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B is in the equilibrium position (at this time, the two sets of manifolds 32 are at the top), so that the liquid is evenly distributed in each cell culture chamber. After the liquid is evenly distributed in each cell culture chamber, the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B is flipped to the right to the upright position by the first flipping frame 121 (at this time, the two sets of manifolds 32 are on the side and vertically aligned), waiting for cell culture.

[0183] During drainage, the second tilting frame 122 simultaneously tilts the first tilting frame 121 and its loaded multilayer cell culture vessel 22B to the left, causing the first tilting frame 121 and its loaded multilayer cell culture vessel 22B to tilt forward, thus tilting the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B from an upright position to the liquid addition / drainage position and positioning the two sets of manifolds 32 forward. Then, the rotating structure 110 in the first loading module 11 rotates the corresponding collection bag to adjust its height, allowing liquid to be transported from the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B to the corresponding collection bag (please ensure proper venting during this process). The drainage rate can also be adjusted by rotating the corresponding collection bag using the rotating structure 110 in the first loading module 11, but the drainage rate should not be too high. Quickly, otherwise a vacuum will be formed inside the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B, damaging the cells and the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B; during the drainage process, the second flipping frame 122 can also drive the first flipping frame 121 and the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B it carries to flip backward, so that the front end of the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B (the end where the manifold 32 is located) is raised at a certain angle, such as 10 degrees, so as to completely empty it; after the liquid is emptied from the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B, the second flipping frame 122 drives the first flipping frame 121 and the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B it carries to continue to flip backward, so that the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B is in the equilibrium position (at this time, the two sets of manifolds 32 are at the top), so as to promote the drainage of liquid in the infusion tube 31.

[0184] The above description of the operation of the first flipper 121 and the second flipper 122 during cell culture medium addition and removal is merely an example of adjusting the orientation of the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B via the second loading module 12, and not a limitation on the cell culture medium addition and removal process or the adjustment of the orientation of the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B via the second loading module 12. Furthermore, the specific process for adjusting the orientation of the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B via the second loading module 12 should be determined based on the actual application scenario and requirements.

[0185] It is understood that in cell culture, including but not limited to: operations such as transferring cell culture medium from the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B to the corresponding reagent bottle 21H for sampling and observation purposes; operations such as collecting supernatant after cell culture and transferring supernatant from the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B to the supernatant collection bag 21E; operations such as adding washing solution and transferring washing solution from the washing solution bag 21B to the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B; operations such as recovering washing solution and transferring washing solution from the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B to the washing solution collection bag 21F; operations such as adding digestion solution and transferring digestion solution from the digestion solution bag 21C to the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B; operations such as adding stop solution and transferring stop solution from the stop solution bag 21D to the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B; and operations such as collecting cell fluid and transferring cultured cell fluid from the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B to the cell fluid collection bag 12G, are all suitable for using the liquid delivery device 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention to realize the delivery of the corresponding liquid and the adjustment of the posture of the multilayer cell culture vessel 22B by referring to the aforementioned liquid addition or drainage process.

[0186] Understandably, the operations of collecting supernatant, recovering washing solution, and collecting cell sap differ from the liquid addition operation in that it is appropriate to lower the height of the supernatant collection bag 21E, washing solution collection bag 21F, cell sap collection bag 12G, and reagent bottle 21H, so as to create a negative liquid level difference between the supernatant collection bag 21E, washing solution collection bag 21F, cell sap collection bag 12G, and reagent bottle 21H and the multilayer cell culture device 22B, thereby allowing the corresponding liquid to be transported from the multilayer cell culture device 22B to the supernatant collection bag 21E, washing solution collection bag 21F, cell sap collection bag 12G, and reagent bottle 21H.

[0187] The second loading module 12 is adapted to flexibly adjust the posture of the multilayer cell culture device 22B according to the needs of actual applications, so as to adapt to various operations and processes in cell culture, including the posture adjustment of the multilayer cell culture device 22B during liquid delivery.

[0188] The multilayer cell culture apparatus 22B further includes multiple cell culture chambers. In some embodiments, the stock solution bag 21A, washing solution bag 21B, digestion solution bag 21C, stop solution bag 21D, supernatant collection bag 21E, washing solution collection bag 21F, cell fluid collection bag 12G, and reagent bottle 12H are also adapted to be in fluid communication with each cell culture chamber in the multilayer cell culture apparatus 22B, respectively. In this case, the liquid delivery device 10 provided in the embodiments of the present invention can still be used to deliver the corresponding liquid and adjust the posture of the multilayer cell culture apparatus 22B by referring to the aforementioned liquid addition or drainage process.

[0189] In some embodiments, the cell fluid filling operation is adapted to be independent of the operations of inoculating the stock solution, extracting the cell culture medium, collecting the supernatant, adding the washing solution, recovering the washing solution, adding the digestion solution, adding the stop solution, and collecting the cell fluid. In a specific implementation, the cell fluid bag used in the cell fluid filling operation can be used as a first container 21 and mounted on the rotating structure 110 of the first loading module 11. The height of the cell fluid bag is adjusted by rotating the cell fluid bag through the rotating structure 110, thereby delivering the cell fluid in the cell fluid bag to the corresponding syringe or injection needle.

[0190] In some embodiments, the liquid delivery device 10 provided in this invention is also adapted to include a processor for controlling the operation of the first loading module 11 and the second loading module 12, including but not limited to: controlling the rotation angle and rotation rate of the rotating structure 110 in the first loading module 11, and the flipping angle and flipping rate of the first flipping frame 121 and the second flipping frame 122 in the second loading module 12.

[0191] In specific implementation, the processor is adapted to control the operation of the first loading module 11 and the second loading module 12 based on the specific requirements of the liquid delivery device 10 provided in the embodiments of the present invention in actual applications.

[0192] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the liquid conveying device 10 provided in the embodiments of the present invention is also adapted to include various sensors respectively connected to the processor, including but not limited to: liquid level sensor, angle sensor, rate sensor, flow rate sensor, flow sensor, etc., for respectively collecting the liquid level height inside the container 20, the rotation angle and rotation rate of the rotating structure 110, the rotation angle and rotation rate of the first flipping frame 121 and the second flipping frame 122, and the flow rate and flow rate of the liquid conveying process, etc.

[0193] Since the working methods and workflows of the first loading module 11 and the second loading module 12 have been described in detail in the embodiments of the present invention, the process of controlling the first loading module 11 and the second loading module 12 by a processor in conjunction with various sensors will not be described again.

[0194] Understandably, the aforementioned processors and various sensors are also suitable for integration into the cell culture device 1 for integrated control.

[0195] This invention also provides a method for conveying liquid.

[0196] This method is applied to the liquid conveying device 10 provided in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0197] As described above, the liquid conveying device 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention is adapted to load the container 20 and adjust the height of the container 20 to generate a liquid level difference between different containers 20 that are in fluid communication, thereby enabling the liquid to be conveyed between the different containers 20.

[0198] Reference Figure 9 In some embodiments, method 30 may include the following steps:

[0199] S31, receives the run command;

[0200] S32, in response to the operating command, adjusts the height of container 20 to create a liquid level difference between fluidly connected containers 20, thereby enabling the liquid to be transported between the fluidly connected containers 20.

[0201] As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, container 20 may include a first container 21; and the first container 21 is adapted to be loaded onto a first loading module 11 and rotated under the drive of the first loading module 11 to adjust its height.

[0202] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the operating instructions may include liquid delivery instructions.

[0203] Accordingly, the method may include:

[0204] S311, receives liquid transfer instructions;

[0205] S321, in response to the liquid transport command, controls the first loading module 11 to drive the first container 21 to rotate, so as to adjust the height of the first container 21 and create a liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22, thereby transporting liquid between the first container 21 and other containers 22.

[0206] In some embodiments, the first loading module 11 includes a rotating structure 110. In this case, it is suitable to load and drive the first container 21 to rotate via the rotating structure 110. Thus, in the specific implementation of the liquid conveying method 30 provided in the embodiments of the present invention, it is also suitable to drive the first container 21 to rotate by controlling the rotating structure 110.

[0207] In some embodiments, the rotating structure 110 is adapted to drive the first container 21 to rotate around a fixed axis.

[0208] In a further embodiment, it is also suitable to control the rotating structure 110 to drive the first container 21 to rotate around a non-vertical axis; or, to control the rotating structure 110 to drive the first container 21 to spirally rotate around a vertical axis to rise or fall.

[0209] In this embodiment of the invention, the specific direction of the rotation axis of the rotating structure 110 is adapted to be determined based on the specific structural features of the rotating structure 110. This is described in the liquid conveying device 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention, and will not be repeated here.

[0210] In some embodiments, the liquid delivery command may include a forward liquid delivery command.

[0211] Accordingly, step S321 may include:

[0212] S3211, in response to the forward liquid delivery command, controls the rotating structure 110 to drive the first container 21 to rotate forward, thereby raising the height of the first container 21 and generating a positive liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22, so that the liquid in the first container 21 flows to other containers 22.

[0213] In some embodiments, the liquid delivery command may further include a reverse liquid delivery command.

[0214] Accordingly, step S321 may also include:

[0215] S3212, in response to the reverse liquid transport command, controls the rotating structure 110 to drive the first container 21 to rotate in the opposite direction, so as to reduce the height of the first container 21 and generate a negative liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22, thereby causing the liquid in the other containers 22 to flow to the first container 21.

[0216] In some embodiments, the height of the other containers 22 in fluid communication with the first container 21 is adapted to remain constant. In this case, it is suitable to create a level difference between the first container 21 and the other containers 22 simply by adjusting the height of the first container 21.

[0217] In other embodiments, the height of the other containers 22 in fluid communication with the first container 21 is adapted to be changed. In this case, it is suitable to create a liquid level difference between the first container 21 and the other containers 22 by adjusting only the height of the first container 21, or by adjusting only the height of the other containers 22, or by adjusting the heights of the first container 21 and the other containers 22 simultaneously. In this case, refer to the description of the liquid conveying device 10 provided in the embodiments of the present invention regarding the inclusion of at least two rotating structures 110, and in the specific implementation of the method 30, it is suitable to control any one of the at least two rotating structures 110 to drive the first container 21 loaded thereon to rotate, so as to adjust the height of the first container 21 and create a liquid level difference between the first container 21 and the first containers 21 loaded by the other rotating structures 110 (i.e., the other containers 22 mentioned at the beginning of this paragraph), thereby allowing liquid to be conveyed between the first container 21 and the other first containers 21 loaded by the other rotating structures 110 (i.e., the other containers 22 mentioned at the beginning of this paragraph).

[0218] In practice, the height of the first container 21 can be adjusted by the rotation angle of the rotating structure 110. The specific adjustment depends on the actual application scenario and requirements.

[0219] It is understandable that the required liquid level difference for transporting different liquids between the corresponding first container 21 and the corresponding other containers 22 varies depending on the type of liquid, the size of the first container 21, and the size of other containers 22. Furthermore, the accuracy requirements for the liquid level difference also differ depending on the application scenario and needs.

[0220] In some embodiments, the required level difference precision for transferring liquid between the first container 21 and the other containers 22 is relatively low. In this case, precise control of the height of the first container 21 is not required; it is sufficient to create a level difference between the first container 21 and the other containers 22. For example, in some examples, both the other containers 22 and the first container 21 are located at a lower position for ease of loading. In specific implementations, the rotating structure 110 can be rotated by a large angle, such as 120 degrees, to raise the first container 21 to a sufficient height to transfer liquid from the first container 21 to the other containers 22.

[0221] Accordingly, the method 30 may further include the following steps before receiving the liquid delivery command as described in step S311:

[0222] S310, preset rotation requirements.

[0223] In some embodiments, the rotation requirement may include the rotation angle of the rotating structure 110, for example, rotating the rotating structure 110 by 120 degrees.

[0224] Accordingly, step S321 may also include:

[0225] S3213, in response to the liquid transport command, the rotation requirement can be obtained, for example, to rotate the rotating structure 110 by 120 degrees, control the rotating structure 110 to drive the first container 21 to rotate by 120 degrees, so as to raise the height of the first container 21 and create a liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22, thereby transporting the liquid from the first container 21 to other containers 22.

[0226] In other embodiments, a higher level difference accuracy is required to achieve the liquid transfer between the first container 21 and other containers 22. In this case, the level difference threshold required for different liquids to be transferred between the corresponding first container 21 and the corresponding other containers 22 can be obtained through experiments, and a functional relationship between different liquid types, the corresponding first container 21 and the corresponding other containers 22, and the level difference threshold can be established, denoted as the first functional relationship. In specific implementations, the liquid level height in the corresponding first container 21 and the corresponding other containers 22 can be collected in real time based on the liquid level sensor, and the real-time level difference can be obtained based on the difference between the two liquid level heights. Then, the rotation of the rotating structure 110 can be determined based on the comparison result between the real-time level difference and the corresponding level difference threshold.

[0227] Accordingly, the rotation requirement may also include the first functional relationship; the liquid delivery instruction may also include the liquid type and the corresponding first container 21 and the corresponding other containers 22; step S321 may also include:

[0228] S3214, in response to the liquid transport command, the rotating structure 110 is controlled to drive the first container 21 to rotate and collect the liquid level height in the first container 21 and other containers 22 in real time. At the same time, the first function relationship is obtained. Based on the liquid type included in the liquid transport command and the corresponding first container 21 and other containers 22, the corresponding liquid level difference threshold is obtained in combination with the first function relationship. The real-time liquid level difference is obtained according to the difference in liquid level height in the first container 21 and other containers 22. It is determined whether the real-time liquid level difference reaches the liquid level difference threshold. If it does, the rotating structure 110 is controlled to stop rotating. If it does not reach the threshold, the rotating structure 110 is controlled to continue rotating until the real-time liquid level difference reaches the liquid level difference threshold, which is suitable for transporting liquid between the first container 21 and other containers 22.

[0229] In some embodiments, different liquids are suitable for transport using a first container 21 and other containers 22 that cooperate with them. Furthermore, in some examples, the initial positions of the first container 21 and other containers 22 are fixed. In this case, the required rotation angle threshold or range of the rotating structure 110 when transporting different liquids between the first container 21 and other containers 22 based on liquid level differences can be obtained experimentally, and a functional relationship between different liquid types and the corresponding angle threshold or range can be established, denoted as the second functional relationship.

[0230] Accordingly, the rotation requirement may also include the second functional relationship; the liquid delivery instruction may also include the type of liquid; and step S322 may also include:

[0231] S3215, in response to the liquid transport command, obtains the second function relationship, and obtains the corresponding angle threshold or corresponding angle range based on the liquid type in the liquid transport command and the second function relationship, and then controls the rotating structure 110 to drive the first container 21 to rotate to the corresponding angle threshold or corresponding angle range, so as to adjust the first container 21 to an appropriate height, thereby creating a liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22, so as to transport the liquid between the first container 21 and other containers 22.

[0232] As mentioned earlier, with the delivery pipeline unchanged, the greater the liquid level difference between the first container 21 and the other container 22, the greater the flow rate of the liquid transport between them based on the liquid level difference. Therefore, it is also suitable to adjust the liquid flow rate between the first container 21 and the other container 22 based on the liquid level difference.

[0233] In some embodiments, the execution instructions also include rate adjustment instructions.

[0234] Accordingly, the method 30 may further include:

[0235] S312, receive rate adjustment command;

[0236] S322, in response to the rate adjustment command, controls the rotation angle of the rotating structure 110 to drive the first container 21 to rotate, so as to adjust the height of the first container 21, thereby adjusting the liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22, and then adjusting the flow rate of the liquid transported between the first container 21 and other containers 22 based on the liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22.

[0237] In some embodiments, the rotation angle of the rotating structure 110 at different flow rates when different liquids are transported between the corresponding first container 21 and the corresponding other containers 22 can be obtained by experiment, and a functional relationship between the flow rate and the rotation angle of the rotating structure 110 when different types of liquids are transported between the corresponding first container 21 and the corresponding other containers 22 can be established, which is denoted as the third functional relationship.

[0238] Accordingly, the rotation conditions also include a third functional relationship; the rate adjustment command also includes the liquid type, the corresponding first container 21, the corresponding other containers 22, and the corresponding flow rate requirements; step S322 may also include:

[0239] S3221, in response to the rate adjustment command, obtains the third function relationship, and obtains the corresponding rotation angle based on the liquid type, the corresponding first container 21, the corresponding other containers 22, and the corresponding flow rate requirement contained in the rate adjustment command, combined with the third function relationship. Then, it controls the rotating structure 110 to drive the first container 21 to rotate by the corresponding rotation angle, so as to adjust the first container 21 to an appropriate height, thereby adjusting the size of the liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22, and thus adjusting the flow rate of the liquid transported between the first container 21 and other containers 22 based on the size of the liquid level difference between the first container 21 and other containers 22.

[0240] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the first loading module 11 is also adapted to make the liquid in the first container 21 suitable for being shaken or evenly dispersed when the first container 21 is rotated.

[0241] Accordingly, the method 30 may further include:

[0242] S323, in response to the liquid delivery command, controls the first loading module 11 to drive the first container 21 to rotate and make the liquid in the first container 21 suitable for being shaken or evenly dispersed.

[0243] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the first loading module 11 further includes a rotating structure 110; the rotating structure 110 is adapted to load and drive the first container 21 to rotate.

[0244] Accordingly, step S323 may also include: in response to a liquid delivery command, controlling the rotating structure 110 to rotate the first container 21 and making the liquid in the first container 21 suitable for being shaken or evenly dispersed.

[0245] In some embodiments, the execution instructions also include container mounting instructions.

[0246] Accordingly, the method 30 may further include:

[0247] S314, Receive container loading command;

[0248] S324, in response to the container loading command, controls the first loading module 11 to rotate to the loading position to be suitable for loading the first container 21.

[0249] In specific implementation, the loading position is the location in the first loading module 11 suitable for loading the first container 21.

[0250] In some embodiments, the first loading module 11 includes a rotating structure 110; the rotating structure 110 is adapted to load and drive the first container 21 to rotate. In this case, controlling the first loading module 11 to rotate to the loading position in step S324 further includes controlling the rotating structure 110 to rotate to the loading position.

[0251] In some embodiments, the rotating structure 110 includes only one loading section 111. In this case, the loading position corresponds to the loading section 111.

[0252] In other embodiments, the rotating structure 110 may further include at least one loading section 111 for loading the first container 21. In this case, the loading position corresponds to the loading section 111 of the first container 21 to be loaded.

[0253] In some embodiments, the loading position of the first container 21 is adapted to be located in a lower position to facilitate loading of the first container 21. In this case, controlling the rotation structure 110 to rotate to the loading position may include: controlling the rotation structure 110 to rotate so that the part to be loaded 111 is in a lower position, suitable for loading the first container 21.

[0254] In some embodiments, it is suitable to reach the loading position by controlling the rotation angle of the rotating structure 110.

[0255] In some embodiments, the functional relationship between the height change of each transfer part 111 on the rotating structure 110 and the rotation angle of the rotating structure 110 can be obtained through experiments, denoted as the fourth functional relationship. Therefore, based on the height change between the current height of the part to be loaded 111 and its target height, and the fourth functional relationship, the required rotation angle of the rotating structure 110 can be determined; wherein, the position where the part to be loaded 111 reaches the target height is the loading position.

[0256] Accordingly, the rotation requirement may further include a fourth functional relationship; step S324 may further include:

[0257] S3241, in response to the container loading command, obtains the current height and target height of the unit to be loaded 111, as well as the fourth function relationship;

[0258] S3242, based on the current height and target height of the loading part 111, the height change of the loading part 111 is obtained, and the rotation angle of the rotating structure 110 is determined based on the height change and the fourth function relationship.

[0259] S3243, control the rotating structure 111 to rotate by a corresponding rotation angle so that the loading part 111 reaches the target height, i.e., the loading position, and is suitable for loading the first container 21.

[0260] It is understood that in other embodiments, the loading position may also be a higher position.

[0261] In practice, the height of the loading position should be determined according to the actual application scenario and needs.

[0262] In some embodiments, the execution instructions also include container unloading instructions.

[0263] Accordingly, the method 30 may further include:

[0264] S315 receives container unloading instructions;

[0265] S325, in response to the container unloading command, controls the first loading module 11 to rotate to the unloading position to be suitable for unloading the first container 21.

[0266] In some embodiments, the first loading module 11 includes a rotating structure 110; the rotating structure 110 is adapted to load and drive the first container 21 to rotate. In this case, controlling the first loading module 11 to rotate to the unloading position in step S325 further includes controlling the rotating structure 110 to rotate to the unloading position.

[0267] The specific implementation of controlling the rotation structure 110 to rotate to the unloading position can refer to the implementation method of controlling the rotation structure 110 to rotate to the loading position in step S324. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the unloading position and the loading position can be the same location.

[0268] In some embodiments, the liquid delivery device 10 further includes a second loading module 12 adapted to load other containers 22; the second loading module 12 is adapted to move other containers 22 to adjust the posture of other containers 22.

[0269] In practice, the operating instructions also include attitude adjustment instructions.

[0270] Accordingly, the method 30 may further include:

[0271] S33, in response to the attitude adjustment command, controls the movement of other containers 22 to adjust the attitude of other containers 22.

[0272] Thus, it is suitable for the liquid in other containers 22 to be shaken or evenly dispersed.

[0273] In some embodiments, method 30 can be applied to liquid delivery in cell culture. In this case, the first container 21 includes a reservoir bag suitable for cell culture; other containers 22 are adapted to include a culture vessel A; the liquid delivery instructions may also include at least one of the following instructions: liquid addition instructions before the start of cell culture; sampling instructions during cell culture; and liquid addition, recovery, collection, and filling instructions after the end of cell culture. The reservoir bag includes, but is not limited to: stock solution bag 21A, washing solution bag 21B, digestion solution bag 21C, stop solution bag 21D, supernatant collection bag 21E, washing solution collection bag 21F, cell fluid collection bag 12G, reagent bottle 12H, and cell fluid bag during filling operations.

[0274] The liquid conveying method 30 provided in this embodiment of the invention is suitable for implementation based on the liquid conveying device 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention. Therefore, the execution of each step in the method 30 and the relationship between each step can also refer to the description of the liquid conveying device 10 and its working mode in this embodiment of the invention.

[0275] Furthermore, it should be noted that the sequence numbers before each step in the liquid delivery method 30 provided in the embodiments of the present invention are used only for ease of description and are not intended to limit the order of the steps in the method 30.

[0276] Furthermore, the establishment of the functional relationship and the experimental acquisition of related data involved in the liquid transportation method 30 provided in this embodiment of the invention can be achieved by any known technical means in the prior art, and this article does not limit them.

[0277] The present invention also provides a system for conveying liquids.

[0278] Specifically, the system may include a control module.

[0279] In practical implementation, the control module is adapted to respond to the operation command and adjust the height of the container 20 to generate a liquid level difference between different fluidly connected containers 20, so as to transport liquid between the different fluidly connected containers 20.

[0280] The liquid conveying system provided in this embodiment of the invention is suitable for implementation based on the liquid conveying device 10 and the liquid conveying method 30 provided in this embodiment of the invention. Therefore, the specific implementation of the system can also refer to the description of the liquid conveying device 10 and its working mode, as well as the description of the liquid conveying method 30 in this embodiment of the invention, and will not be repeated here.

[0281] The present invention also provides an electronic device.

[0282] Specifically, the electronic device may include a processor and a memory. The memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor; when executed by the processor, the computer program implements the liquid delivery method 30 provided in this embodiment of the invention.

[0283] Similarly, the electronic device provided in the embodiments of the present invention is also suitable for implementation based on the liquid conveying device 10 and the liquid conveying method 30 provided in the embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, the specific implementation of the electronic device can also refer to the description of the liquid conveying device 10 and its working mode and the description of the liquid conveying method 30 in the embodiments of the present invention, and will not be repeated here.

[0284] The present invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium.

[0285] Specifically, the computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program that, when executed, implements the liquid delivery method 30 provided in the embodiments of the present invention. For details on the specific implementation of this method 30, please refer to the corresponding content disclosed in the foregoing embodiments of the present invention, and will not be repeated here.

[0286] It is understood that when using the technical solution provided in the embodiments of the present invention for liquid transportation, at least the receiving end container 20, such as a culture vessel, needs to be ventilated if necessary to ensure the smooth progress of the liquid transportation process. In specific implementations, any known technical means in the prior art can be used to achieve ventilation of the container 20, such as the culture vessel, and this document does not limit the scope. For example, an air valve can be installed in the container 20, such as the culture vessel, and the corresponding air valve can be opened during liquid transportation to ventilate the corresponding container 20, such as the culture vessel, thereby facilitating the liquid transportation process.

[0287] Furthermore, the method 30 described in the embodiments of the present invention can be implemented directly using hardware, a software module executed by a processor, or a combination of both. The software module can be located in random access memory (RAM), main memory, read-only memory (ROM), electrically programmable ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art.

[0288] Although specific embodiments of the invention have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, even when only a single embodiment is described with respect to a particular feature. The feature examples provided in this disclosure are intended to be illustrative and not limiting, unless otherwise stated. In practice, one or more technical features of the dependent claims may be combined with the technical features of the independent claim, as needed and where technically feasible, and the technical features of the corresponding claims may be combined in any suitable manner rather than solely by the specific combinations listed in the claims.

[0289] While the present invention has been disclosed above, it is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can make various modifications and alterations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention; therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope defined in the claims.

Claims

1. A liquid delivery device, characterized by, The liquid conveying device is adapted to load containers and adjust the height of the containers to create a liquid level difference between different fluidly connected containers, thereby enabling the liquid to be conveyed between the different containers.

2. The liquid delivery device of claim 1, wherein, The container includes a first container; the liquid conveying device includes a first loading module; the first loading module is adapted to load the first container and drive the first container to rotate, so as to adjust the height of the first container to create a liquid level difference between the first container and other containers in fluid communication with it, thereby conveying liquid between the first container and the other containers.

3. The liquid delivery device of claim 2, wherein, The first loading module includes a rotating structure; the rotating structure is adapted to load the first container and drive the first container to rotate around a fixed axis direction, so as to adjust the height of the first container and create a liquid level difference between the first container and the other containers, thereby transporting liquid between the first container and the other containers.

4. The liquid delivery device of claim 3, wherein, The first loading module includes at least two of the aforementioned rotating structures; any one of the aforementioned rotating structures is adapted to drive the first container loaded thereon to rotate, thereby adjusting the height of the first container to create a liquid level difference between the first container and the first containers loaded by other rotating structures, thereby allowing liquid to be transported between the first container and the first containers loaded by other rotating structures.

5. The liquid delivery device of claim 3, wherein, The rotating structure includes at least one loading section; each of the at least one loading section is adapted to load the first container; and the loading sections are arranged sequentially in the radial direction, or the circumferential direction, or the axial direction, respectively.

6. The liquid delivery device of claim 3, wherein, The rotating structure includes a cylindrical structure; the cylindrical structure is adapted to load the first container through its cylindrical wall and drive the first container to rotate about a non-vertical axis; or The rotating structure includes a plate-like structure; the plate-like structure is adapted to mount the first container on its surface and drive the first container to rotate about a non-vertical axis; or The rotating structure includes a spiral structure; the spiral structure is adapted to load the first container on its surface and drive the first container to spirally rotate upward or downward around the vertical axis.

7. The liquid conveying device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first loading module is further adapted to adjust the liquid level difference between the first container and the other containers by adjusting the height of the first container when rotating the first container, thereby adjusting the flow rate of liquid transported between the first container and the other containers based on the liquid level difference between the first container and the other containers; and / or The first loading module is also adapted to make the liquid in the first container suitable for being shaken or evenly dispersed when rotating the first container.

8. The liquid conveying device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The liquid delivery device further includes a second loading module adapted to load the other containers; the second loading module is adapted to rotate the other containers in multiple dimensions to adjust the posture of the other containers.

9. The liquid conveying device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The other containers include a multilayer cell culture vessel; the multilayer cell culture vessel has an upright position, a liquid addition / discharge position, and a balanced position; the second loading module is adapted to rotate the multilayer cell culture vessel so that it rotates between the upright position, the liquid addition / discharge position, and the balanced position.

10. A cell culture device, characterized in that, The liquid delivery device includes any one of claims 1 to 9; the liquid delivery device is used for liquid delivery in cell culture; the liquid delivery includes at least one of the following: The liquid addition procedure before starting cell culture; Sampling procedures during cell culture; The processes of adding, recovering, collecting, and filling cells after cell culture are completed.

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