System, moving mechanism part, positioning mechanism part and culture chip connecting mechanism

Abstract

The present application provides a system that facilitates improving operational efficiency when a fluid circuit device is used. One embodiment of the system of the present application includes a structure (2), a moving mechanism portion (3) that enables the structure (2) to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position, the moving mechanism portion being provided for a chip (10) to be attached and detached, and a positioning mechanism portion (4) that is linked to the moving mechanism portion (3), the positioning mechanism portion (4) being configured to enable the chip (10) to be positioned.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a system, a moving mechanism, a positioning mechanism, and a culture chip connection mechanism.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-069873, filed in Japan on April 23, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a fluid loop device comprising a block having a guide portion for detaching and connecting a piping through which fluid supplied from a pump can flow. The block includes a supply cartridge having a supply guide portion, and a supply tube capable of supplying fluid to a culture chip storing fluid for cell culture is detachably connected. The supply cartridge is detachably connected to the upper part of the culture chip.

[0004] Existing technical documents Patent documents Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2022 / 190627 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem that the invention aims to solve When the culture chip is installed into a fluid loop device as disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to perform an operation to fit the piping on the fluid loop device side to the culture chip side. Therefore, the operation of the device is likely to become complicated. Thus, there is still room to improve the operational efficiency when using such a device.

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a system that helps improve the operating efficiency when using fluid loop devices, and a moving mechanism, a positioning mechanism, and a culture chip connection mechanism for the system.

[0007] Methods for solving problems (1) A system according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a moving mechanism that enables the aforementioned structure to move between a first position and a second position different from the aforementioned first position, the moving mechanism being connected to the chip in a detachable manner; and a positioning mechanism connected to the moving mechanism, the positioning mechanism being configured to position the aforementioned chip.

[0008] According to this configuration, the chip positioning operation and the structure movement operation between the first and second positions can be performed in parallel. Therefore, the total number of operations involved in chip positioning and structure movement, which previously required separate operations, as well as the total time required for both, can be reduced. Thus, the system of the present invention helps to improve the operational efficiency of chip connection and structure movement.

[0009] (2) In the system described in (1) above, the aforementioned chip can be mounted and dismounted relative to the aforementioned moving mechanism in a first direction, and the aforementioned moving mechanism can be configured to move in a second direction that intersects with the aforementioned first direction.

[0010] Based on this configuration, the chip can be assembled and disassembled in the first direction, and the structure can be moved in the second direction. Therefore, a simple system capable of operating with two actions can be provided.

[0011] (3) In the system described in (1) or (2) above, the aforementioned moving mechanism may also include a locking mechanism, which locks the aforementioned structure at the aforementioned first position and / or the aforementioned second position.

[0012] This configuration allows the structure to be locked, thus enabling stable operation.

[0013] (4) In the system described in (3) above, the aforementioned moving mechanism may also have a force-applying member, which applies force to the aforementioned structure in the direction of the lock-released state where the aforementioned lock-released state is released.

[0014] According to this configuration, the structure can be put into a locked-out state by applying force through the force-applying component, thus enabling smooth operation.

[0015] (5) In any one of (1) to (4) above, the chip can be configured to be positioned in a second direction that intersects the first direction and in a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction.

[0016] Based on this configuration, the chip can be positioned in the second and third directions, thus enabling stable operation.

[0017] (6) In the system described in (5) above, the aforementioned positioning mechanism may also have a pair of arms that extend in the aforementioned first direction and are opposite to each other in the aforementioned third direction.

[0018] This configuration allows the chip to move along a pair of arms. Furthermore, the chip can be clamped and held by the pair of arms.

[0019] (7) In the system described in (6) above, the aforementioned positioning mechanism may also have a pair of positioning protrusions, which protrude from the aforementioned pair of arms toward the aforementioned third direction and are opposite to each other.

[0020] Based on this configuration, the chip can be positioned using a pair of positioning protrusions.

[0021] (8) In any of the above (1) to (7) systems, there may also be a camera unit, which is disposed in the above structure to take pictures of the above chip.

[0022] Based on this configuration, it is possible to photograph the chip. Furthermore, the photographing unit can be moved in parallel with the movement of the structure, thus reducing the total number of operations that previously required separate movements of the structure and the photographing unit, as well as the total time required for both.

[0023] (9) In any of the above (1) to (8) systems, the first position and the second position may each be configured on a vertical line.

[0024] According to this configuration, when the structure is moved from position 1 to position 2, or from position 2 to position 1, gravity can be utilized, thus enabling smooth operation.

[0025] (10) The moving mechanism of one aspect of the present invention enables the structure to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position, the structure being configured to allow piping for the flow of fluid for cell culture, the moving mechanism having a chip for storing the fluid for cell culture, the moving mechanism being used in a fluid loop device, such as any one of (1) to (9) above.

[0026] (11) In one aspect of the present invention, the positioning mechanism is connected to the moving mechanism and configured to position the chip. The moving mechanism enables the structure to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position, so that the chip can be connected in a detachable manner. The positioning mechanism is used in a fluid circuit device, such as any one of (1) to (9) above.

[0027] Based on these constructed moving and positioning mechanisms, a simple fluid loop device can be provided that can perform chip positioning in parallel while moving the structure.

[0028] (12) One aspect of the present invention relates to a culture chip connection mechanism configured to allow a fluid loop device to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position, so that the culture chip can be connected in a detachable manner, wherein the culture chip can be attached and detached relative to the culture chip connection mechanism in a first direction, and the culture chip connection mechanism includes a moving mechanism portion configured to move in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0029] According to this configuration, the culture chip can be attached and detached in the first direction, and the fluid loop device can be moved in the second direction. Therefore, a simple culture chip connection mechanism that can operate in both directions can be provided.

[0030] (13) The culture chip connection mechanism described in (12) above may further include a positioning mechanism, which is connected to the moving mechanism to position the culture chip.

[0031] According to this configuration, the fluidic circuit device can be moved between the first and second positions in parallel with the operation of positioning the culture chip. Therefore, the total number of operations involved in positioning the culture chip and the total number of operations involved in moving the fluidic circuit device, as well as the total time required for these operations, can be reduced. This contributes to improved operational efficiency.

[0032] Invention Effects According to the present invention, a system, a moving mechanism, a positioning mechanism, and a culture chip connection mechanism that can help improve operability can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0033] [ Figure 1 [A perspective view showing the locked-out state of the system according to the embodiment.]

[0034] [ Figure 2 [A perspective view showing the locked state of the system according to the embodiment.]

[0035] [ Figure 3 This is a side view showing the setup state of the imaging unit of the system according to the embodiment.

[0036] [ Figure 4 [Top view of the system according to the implementation method]

[0037] [ Figure 5 [A side view showing the locked-out state of the system according to the embodiment.]

[0038] [ Figure 6 This is a side view showing the locked state of the system according to the embodiment.

[0039] [ Figure 7 This is a top view showing the chip mounting state of the system according to the embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system. In this specification, the positional relationships of each component will be described with reference to the XYZ orthogonal coordinate system as needed. A predetermined direction in the horizontal plane is defined as the X direction, a direction orthogonal to the X direction in the horizontal plane is defined as the Y direction, and a direction orthogonal to both the X and Y directions (i.e., the vertical direction) is defined as the Z direction. In the following description, among the X, Y, and Z directions, the side with the arrow in the figure is described as the positive (+) side, and the side opposite to the arrow is described as the negative (-) side. The +Z side corresponds to the upper side of the vertical direction, and the -Z side corresponds to the lower side of the vertical direction.

[0041] In the following description, terms such as "parallel," "orthogonal," "centered," and "coaxial" indicating relative or absolute configurations not only mean a strictly so configuration, but also include the state of relative displacement by angles and distances with tolerances, to the extent that the same function can be obtained. In the accompanying drawings used in the following description, the scale of each component has been appropriately changed to make each component recognizable.

[0042] <System> Figure 1 A perspective view showing the locked-out state of System 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 2 A perspective view showing the locked state of system 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 3 A side view showing the setup state of the imaging unit 5 of system 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 4 This is a top view of System 1 as described in the implementation method. Figure 5 A side view showing the locked-out state of System 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 6 A side view showing the locked state of system 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 7 This is a top view showing the chip mounting state of System 1 in the embodiment.

[0043] Figures 1 to 7 The system 1 of the illustrated embodiment includes: a structure 2; a moving mechanism 3 that enables the structure to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position, the moving mechanism being connected to the chip 10 in a detachable manner; and a positioning mechanism 4 that is connected to the moving mechanism 3 and configured to position the chip 10.

[0044] <Structure> Structure 2 constitutes cell culture device 101 (an example of a fluid loop device). Structure 2 is configured to allow the connection and disconnection of pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C for the flow of fluids used in cell culture. Pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C are configured to allow the flow of cell culture liquid (hereinafter also referred to as "culture medium") delivered from pump 11. The culture medium contains various drugs used for culturing cells.

[0045] Pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C are formed of materials with lower drug adsorption compared to structure 2. For example, if structure 2 is formed of ABS resin, pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C may be formed of polyetheretherketone resin (PEEK resin) or fluoropolymers (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene).

[0046] The structure 2 has guide portions 20A, 20B, and 20C, respectively, for attaching and detaching pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C. Each guide portion 20A, 20B, and 20C comprises a recess and a hole. The recess guides pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C along the surface of the structure 2, while the hole guides pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C through the interior of the structure 2. A recess refers to a visible recess, groove, or other feature that guides pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C along the outer surface of the structure 2. A hole refers to a non-visible through-hole or other feature that guides pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C through the interior of the structure 2.

[0047] Structure 2 can be, for example, as follows Figure 1 As shown, it comprises blocks 21A, 21B, and 21C. Blocks 21A, 21B, and 21C are connected to each other in a detachable manner by fixing members 22 such as locking pins. At least a portion of blocks 21A, 21B, and 21C are connected to other parts in a detachable manner by a concave-convex structure 23 including recesses and protrusions. It should be noted that the connection method of blocks 21A, 21B, and 21C is not limited to the above method, and can be changed to be based on threaded fixing, strap fixing, etc., according to design specifications.

[0048] Figures 1-7 In the embodiment shown, blocks 21A, 21B, and 21C are configured to include pump block 21A, tank block 21B, and connecting block 21C. At least a portion of pump block 21A, tank block 21B, and connecting block 21C may also be configured to include multiple boxes that can be detachably connected to each other.

[0049] The pump block 21A is configured to accommodate the pump 11. The pump 11 can be, for example, an open-type liquid delivery pump. This reduces the likelihood of drug clogging. The pump block 21A is configured to allow for the attachment and detachment of a pump connecting pipe 12A (an example of piping) that can be connected to the pump 11. The pump block 21A has a pump-side guide portion 20A (an example of a guide portion) for attaching and detaching the pump connecting pipe 12A.

[0050] Figure 1In the example, one pump 11 is installed on the +X side of pump block 21A. It should be noted that the installation location and number of pumps 11 are not limited to the above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0051] The can body 21B is configured to accommodate and detach a relay pipe 12B (an example of piping), which relays the flow paths of piping 12A-12C to the chip housing 15 side. The can body 21B has a can-side guide portion 20B (an example of a guide portion) for accommodating and detaching the relay pipe 12B. The can body 21B is rectangular in shape when viewed from above in an XY perspective.

[0052] In tank block 21B, for example, Figure 5 The chip housing 15 is installed as shown. The chip housing 15 functions as a cover over the culture chip 10 from the +Z side. The chip housing 15 is pre-installed on the tank block 21B side. The chip housing 15 is configured to allow for the attachment and detachment of a storage tank connection tube (an example of a supply tube for supplying culture medium) to the culture chip 10, which can store culture medium. A flow path for culturing cells is formed in the culture chip 10.

[0053] The connecting block 21C is detachably connected to the pump block 21A and the tank block 21B. The connecting block 21C is configured as a connecting pipe 12C (an example of piping) that can connect the pump connecting pipe 12A to the relay pipe 12B. The connecting block 21C has a connecting guide 20C (an example of a guide) that allows the connecting pipe 12C to be attached and detached.

[0054] Connecting block 21C is positioned in the X direction between pump block 21A and tank block 21B. Pump block 21A is connected to the +X side of connecting block 21C. Tank block 21B is connected to the -Z side of the -X side of connecting block 21C. It should be noted that the connection positions of each block 21A~21C are not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0055] Structure 2 may also include a connector 13, which is detachably connected to pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C that respectively constitute piping 12A, piping 12B, and piping 12C. The connector 13 may also be provided at, for example... Figure 5 The portions of blocks 21A, 21B, and 21C shown are connected to each other. The connector member 13 is formed of a material with lower drug adsorption compared to the structure 2. For example, if the structure 2 is formed of ABS resin, the connector member 13 can be formed of polyetheretherketone resin (PEEK resin), fluoropolymer (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene, etc.). The connector member 13 can also be formed of the same material as pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C.

[0056] Structure 2 can also have different piping connection systems depending on the purpose of cell culture. The piping connection system can also be configured as follows: a first piping connection system, which includes a portion of one of a plurality of pump connection tubes 12A connected to pump 11; and a second piping connection system, which includes the remaining portions. The first piping connection system can also be configured to include piping for the flow of a first culture medium. The second piping connection system can also be configured to include piping for the flow of a second culture medium. The second culture medium can also be a liquid different from the first culture medium.

[0057] For example, when using system 1, blocks 21A, 21B, and 21C are connected to form structure 2, and pump 11 is installed in structure 2. Furthermore, various pipes (pipes 12A, 12B, and 12C, connector 13, etc.) are connected to guide sections 20A, 20B, and 20C of structure 2. In this connected state, if pump 11 is driven, the culture medium delivered from pump 11 flows into culture chip 10 via the corresponding pump connecting pipe 12A, connecting pipe 12C, and relay pipe 12B.

[0058] Additionally, the culture medium within the culture chip 10 returns to the pump 11 via the corresponding relay tube 12B, connecting tube 12C, and pump connecting tube 12A. The culture medium that has returned to the pump 11 follows the aforementioned path. That is, a culture medium circulation path is formed by tubes 12A, 12B, and 12C. It should be noted that, if necessary, a culture medium recovery section for recovering culture medium may also be provided midway through the circulation path.

[0059] <Mobile Organization Department> The moving mechanism 3 is configured to allow the structure 2 to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position. The first position and the second position are each located on a vertical line (along a line in the Z direction). Figure 1 (or Figure 5 )and Figure 2 (or Figure 6 The position shown by one side is equivalent to position 1, and the position shown by the other side is equivalent to position 2.

[0060] The moving mechanism 3 is configured to allow for the detachable connection of the culture chip 10, etc., forming a culture chip connection mechanism 102. The chip 10 can be attached to and detached from the moving mechanism 3 in the first direction (X direction). The chip 10 can also be detachably connected to the -X side portion of the moving mechanism 3 via a bump-and-recessed structure.

[0061] The moving mechanism 3 is configured to be movable in a second direction (Z direction) intersecting the first direction. The moving mechanism 3 comprises a base 30 and a lifting part 31. The base 30 is rectangular in shape when viewed from above. The lifting part 31 is disposed inside the base 30 and is capable of moving up and down relative to the base 30 (moving in the Z direction). The Z-side portion of the structure 2 (e.g., the lower part of the connecting block 21C) is supported by the lifting part 31. The structure 2 can move up and down relative to the base 30 together with the lifting part 31.

[0062] The moving mechanism 3 includes locking mechanisms 35A and 35B that lock the structure 2 in a first position and / or a second position. Locking mechanisms 35A and 35B consist of a locking plate 35A disposed on the base 30 and a locking pin 35B disposed on the lifting part 31. The locking plate 35A is formed as a plate along the XY plane. The locking pin 35B includes a conical portion protruding towards the -Z side. An opening is formed in the base 30 corresponding to the locking pin 35B, allowing the locking pin 35B to enter / retract.

[0063] For example, in the unlocked state, the structure 2 and the lifting part 31 are pressed down together to lower them. Then, the locking pin 35B enters the opening of the base 30, and a portion of the locking pin 35B engages with the locking plate 35A. That is, the lifting part 31 is locked relative to the base 30. Thus, the structure 2 and the lifting part 31 are in a locked state together.

[0064] It should be noted that the configuration of locking mechanism parts 35A and 35B is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0065] The moving mechanism 3 includes a force-applying member 36, which applies force to the structure 2 in the direction of the unlocked state, where the locked state is released. The force-applying member 36 is constructed using a spring. Multiple force-applying members 36 are provided on the base 30. These multiple force-applying members 36 are spaced apart at four locations in both the X and Y directions. The force-applying members 36 are configured to extend and retract in the Z direction (applying force in the +Z direction). In the locked state, the lifting part 31 is locked relative to the base 30 in a state that overcomes the applied force of the force-applying member 36. For example, the locking pin 35B can be released from the locking plate 35A by pressing the lock-release button in the locked state. Thus, with a simple operation, the structure 2 can be unlocked by the applied force of the force-applying member 36. It should be noted that the arrangement of the force-applying member 36 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to design specifications.

[0066] Positioning Mechanism Department The positioning mechanism 4 is connected to the moving mechanism 3, and is configured to position the chip 10. The positioning mechanism 4 is detachably connected to the -X side of the moving mechanism 3. The positioning mechanism 4 is configured to position the chip 10 in a second direction (Z direction) intersecting the first direction (X direction) and in a third direction (Y direction) intersecting the first and second directions.

[0067] The positioning mechanism 4 includes a pair of arms 40 extending in a first direction (X direction) and facing each other in a third direction (Y direction). The +X side portion of the arm 40 is threadedly fixed to the outer Y-direction portion (e.g., the lower outer Y-direction portion of the base 30) of the -X side portion of the moving mechanism 3 in a detachable manner. It should be noted that the connection method of the arm 40 is not limited to the above, and can be changed to a concave-convex structure, a belt fixation, etc., depending on the design specifications.

[0068] The positioning mechanism 4 has a pair of positioning protrusions 41, which protrude from a pair of arms 40 in a third direction (Y direction) and are opposite to each other. The positioning protrusions 41 protrude from the inner side of the -X side portion of the arm 40 in the Y direction inward.

[0069] For example, the positioning protrusion 41 may also be formed as a triangular shape that protrudes inward in the Y direction when viewed from above in an XY view. For example, a recess with a triangular shape corresponding to the positioning protrusion 41 may also be formed on the outer side of the chip 10 in the Y direction. Thus, the chip 10 can be guided along the tilt of the triangular shape of the positioning protrusion 41 while the chip 10 is positioned by the engagement of the portion including the top with the recess.

[0070] The positioning mechanism 4 may also include a positioning protrusion 42 that protrudes from the base 30 (moving mechanism 3) in the first direction (X direction). The positioning protrusion 42 protrudes from the center of the Y direction of the -X side portion of the base 30 (moving mechanism 3) in the -X direction.

[0071] For example, the positioning protrusion 42 may also be formed as a triangular shape protruding in the -X direction when viewed from above in the XY direction. For example, a triangular recess corresponding to the positioning protrusion 42 may also be formed on the +X direction side of the chip 10. Thus, the chip 10 can be positioned by the engagement of the portion of the positioning protrusion 42 including the top with the recess.

[0072] <Filming Department> System 1 also includes a camera unit 5 for photographing chip 10. The camera unit 5 is mounted on structure 2. The camera unit 5 comprises a lens 50, an illumination (light source), and a camera 51. A handle 6 for the operator to grip may also be provided on the +Z side of structure 2. For example, the camera unit 5 may be fixed to the handle 6 by a fixing member (not shown). For example, the camera unit 5 may be fixed to structure 2 in a manner that allows it to move integrally with structure 2. It should be noted that the fixing method of the camera unit 5 is not limited to the above and can be modified according to design specifications.

[0073] <Effects> As explained above, the system 1 of this embodiment includes: a structure 2; a moving mechanism 3 that enables the structure to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position, the moving mechanism being connected to the chip 10 in a detachable manner; and a positioning mechanism 4 that is connected to the moving mechanism 3 and configured to position the chip 10.

[0074] According to this configuration, the chip 10 can be positioned while the structure 2 can be moved between a first position and a second position. Therefore, the total number of operations involved in positioning the chip 10 and moving the structure 2, as well as the total time required for these operations, can be reduced. This improves operability.

[0075] The chip 10 in this embodiment can be attached to and detached from the moving mechanism 3 in a first direction, and the moving mechanism 3 is configured to move in a second direction that intersects the first direction.

[0076] According to this configuration, the chip 10 can be installed and removed in the first direction, and the structure 2 can be moved in the second direction. Therefore, a simple system 1 that can operate in both directions can be provided.

[0077] The moving mechanism 3 according to this embodiment includes locking mechanism parts 35A and 35B, which lock the structure 2 in a locked state at a first position and / or a second position.

[0078] Based on this configuration, structure 2 can be locked, thus enabling stable operation.

[0079] The moving mechanism 3 according to this embodiment includes a force-applying member 36, which applies force to the structure 2 in the direction of the unlocked state where the locked state is released.

[0080] According to this configuration, the structure 2 can be locked out by applying force through the force-applying member 36, thus enabling smooth operation.

[0081] In this embodiment, the chip 10 can be mounted and dismounted relative to the moving mechanism 3 in the first direction, and the positioning mechanism 4 is configured to position the chip 10 in the second direction intersecting the first direction and in the third direction intersecting the first and second directions.

[0082] According to this configuration, the chip 10 can be positioned in the second and third directions, thus enabling stable operation.

[0083] The positioning mechanism 4 according to this embodiment has a pair of arms 40, which extend in a first direction and are opposite to each other in a third direction.

[0084] According to this configuration, the chip 10 can be moved along a pair of arms 40. In addition, the chip 10 can be clamped and held by the pair of arms 40.

[0085] The positioning mechanism 4 according to this embodiment has a pair of positioning protrusions 41, which protrude from a pair of arm portions 40 in a third direction and are opposite to each other.

[0086] According to this configuration, the chip 10 can be positioned by a pair of positioning protrusions 41.

[0087] In the system 1 of this embodiment, there is also a camera unit 5, which is disposed on the structure 2 to take pictures of the chip 10.

[0088] According to this configuration, the chip 10 can be photographed. Furthermore, the imaging unit 5 can move together with the structure 2, thus reducing the total number of operations involved in moving the structure 2 and moving the imaging unit 5, which previously required separate movements, as well as the total time required for these operations.

[0089] In the system 1 described in this embodiment, the first position and the second position are each arranged on a vertical line.

[0090] According to this configuration, when moving the structure 2 from the first position to the second position, or from the second position to the first position, gravity can be utilized, thus enabling smooth operation.

[0091] The culture chip connection mechanism 102 according to this embodiment is configured to allow the fluid loop device 101 to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position. The culture chip connection mechanism 102 allows the culture chip 10 to be connected in a detachable manner. The culture chip 10 can be attached to and detached relative to the culture chip connection mechanism 102 in a first direction and includes a moving mechanism 3 configured to move in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0092] According to this configuration, the culture chip 10 can be attached and detached in the first direction, and the fluid loop device 101 can be moved in the second direction. Therefore, a simple culture chip connection mechanism 102 that can operate in both directions can be provided.

[0093] The culture chip connection mechanism 102 according to this embodiment includes a positioning mechanism 4, which is connected to a moving mechanism 3 and is configured to position the culture chip 10.

[0094] According to this configuration, the culture chip 10 can be positioned while the fluid loop device 101 can be moved between a first position and a second position. Therefore, the labor required for positioning the culture chip 10 and for moving the fluid loop device 101 can be simplified. This improves operability.

[0095] By configuring the positioning mechanism 4 to position the culture chip 10, it is possible to integrate it with the fluid circuit device 101, thereby enabling easy and stable operation, such as setting up the incubator or moving it to the operating table when changing drugs (culture medium).

[0096] For example, in previous systems, installing culture chips for perfusion culture required extremely complex procedures and was prone to errors, making perfusion culture difficult. Furthermore, in previous systems, the piping (reagent pathways) on the fluid loop device side was complexly laid out (disorganized liquid delivery), resulting in extremely poor operability.

[0097] In contrast, in the system of this embodiment, by pre-embedding the piping (drug pathway) on the fluid loop device side within the device (recesses and holes, etc.), the complex layout of the piping (drug pathway) can be avoided. This significantly reduces the cumbersome operations and time required for installing the culture chip, as well as contamination caused by contact between the piping and the culture chip. By constructing such a system, previous problems can be eliminated, and it can be easily operated by anyone.

[0098] Furthermore, by modularizing the fluid loop device and the culture chip connection mechanism as a single system, the culture chip mounted directly below it can be easily positioned. Moreover, by equipping this unit with a mechanism (lifting unit) capable of precise lifting, the culture chip can be lifted in a single action, thereby enabling accurate and simple connection of the fluid delivery tubing to the culture chip.

[0099] In addition, the system that descends through a single action maintains the descending state through a locking mechanism, thus enabling the delivery of liquid to the culture chip.

[0100] Furthermore, previous systems have become large-scale systems, and therefore often very complex and expensive. Additionally, the use of disposable components in systems used in cell culture to prevent contamination is considered one of the reasons for the high cost.

[0101] In contrast, the system of this embodiment can suppress the use of disposable components, achieving a compact and inexpensive cell perfusion culture system. Furthermore, the liquid delivery uses an atmospheric-open type pump, thus reducing the likelihood of drug clogging, and the delivery components can be reused by replacing the embedded tubing. Therefore, cost increases can be minimized.

[0102] In addition, in previous systems, the interface between the device and the culture chip often required complicated operations.

[0103] In contrast, the system of this embodiment has a simple structure that enables perfusion culture with dual actions, and therefore has a significant advantage from the viewpoint of shortening the operation and the time required. For example, perfusion culture can be performed through the following steps.

[0104] (1) The culture chip is installed by sliding it horizontally directly below the fluid loop device.

[0105] (2) With the culture chip installed, press the upper part of the system (structure and lifting part) downward (so that it descends relative to the base). This applies a lock and keeps it in the descending state.

[0106] (3) While maintaining the descent state, turn the pump switch ON. This will start the drug delivery and allow for perfusion culture.

[0107] Furthermore, in this embodiment of the system, by providing a microscope camera (imaging unit) on the fluid loop system, the condition of the cells in the culture flow can be observed sequentially through images. By providing a microscope lens, illumination, and imaging camera, changes in the cultured cells on the culture chip mounted directly below the fluid loop device can be identified through microscope images.

[0108] It should be noted that the captured images can also be viewed from a distant location, such as a room, using a wirelessly-enabled unit, or saved as data.

[0109] <Variation Example> In the above embodiments, examples were given where the chip can be mounted and detached relative to the moving mechanism in a first direction, and the moving mechanism is configured to move in a second direction intersecting the first direction. However, the system of the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the moving mechanism may be configured to move in directions different from the first and second directions. Furthermore, the moving mechanism may be configured to move in multiple directions. The configuration of the moving mechanism can be modified according to design specifications.

[0110] In the above embodiments, an example has been described where the moving mechanism includes a locking mechanism that locks the structure at a first position and / or a second position; however, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the locking mechanism may also be configured to lock the structure at an intermediate position between the first and second positions. For example, the locking mechanism may not be provided. The configuration of the locking mechanism can be changed according to design specifications.

[0111] In the above embodiments, an example has been described where the moving mechanism includes a force-applying member that applies force to the structure to achieve a locked-out state, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the force-applying member may also be configured to apply force to the structure in the direction of the locked state. For example, the force-applying member may not be provided. The arrangement of the force-applying member can be changed according to design specifications.

[0112] In the above embodiments, examples have been given of a chip being able to be mounted and dismounted relative to the moving mechanism in a first direction, and a positioning mechanism configured to position the chip in a second direction intersecting the first direction and in a third direction intersecting both the first and second directions. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the positioning mechanism may be configured to position the chip in directions different from the second and third directions. The configuration of the positioning mechanism may be modified according to design specifications.

[0113] In the above embodiments, an example has been described where the positioning mechanism has a pair of arms extending in a first direction and facing each other in a third direction, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the pair of arms may also be arranged such that they face each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The arrangement of the pair of arms can be changed according to design specifications.

[0114] In the above embodiments, an example has been given where the positioning mechanism has a pair of positioning protrusions that protrude from a pair of arms in a third direction and are opposite to each other, but this is not a limitation. For example, the positioning protrusions may also be provided such that only one of the pair of arms protrudes in the third direction. For example, the positioning protrusions may not be provided. The arrangement of the positioning protrusions may be changed according to design specifications.

[0115] The above embodiments have been described using an example that also includes a camera unit disposed on the structure for photographing the chip, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the camera unit may be disposed in a different location from the structure. For example, the system may not include a camera unit. The arrangement of the camera unit can be changed according to design specifications.

[0116] The above embodiments illustrate examples where the first and second positions are each positioned on a vertical line, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first and second positions may each be positioned on a horizontal line. For example, the first and second positions may each be positioned on a line intersecting both the vertical and horizontal lines. The configuration of the first and second positions can be varied according to design specifications.

[0117] In the above embodiments, examples have been given of a structure in the moving mechanism that allows for the installation and removal of piping for the flow of fluids used in cell culture, and an example of a chip that can store fluids used in cell culture. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the structure may also be configured to allow for the installation and removal of piping for the flow of fluids other than those used for cell culture. For example, the chip may also be able to store fluids other than those used for cell culture. The configuration of the structure and / or the chip can be changed according to design specifications.

[0118] In the above embodiments, the culture chip connection mechanism is configured to allow the fluid loop device to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position, and the culture chip connection mechanism allows the culture chip to be connected in a detachable manner. An example has been described where the culture chip can be detached from the culture chip connection mechanism in a first direction and has a moving mechanism configured to move in a second direction intersecting the first direction; however, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention can also be applied to chip connection mechanisms configured to allow movement of other fluid loop devices such as liquid delivery devices for fluids other than those used for cell culture, or gas delivery devices for gas flow.

[0119] The above embodiments illustrate an example where the culture chip connection mechanism includes a positioning mechanism connected to the moving mechanism and configured to position the culture chip; however, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the culture chip connection mechanism may not include a positioning mechanism. The arrangement of the positioning mechanism can be modified according to design specifications.

[0120] Furthermore, without departing from the spirit of the invention, the constituent elements in the above embodiments can be replaced with well-known constituent elements. Additionally, the above variations can be combined.

[0121] Industrial availability In one embodiment of the system of the present invention, it includes: a moving mechanism 3 configured to move the structure 2 between a first position and a second position different from the first position, the moving mechanism 3 being detachably connected to the chip 10; and a positioning mechanism 4 connected to the moving mechanism 3 and configured to position the chip 10. Therefore, the chip 10 can be positioned while the structure 2 can move between the first and second positions, thereby simplifying the labor required for positioning the chip 10 and moving the structure 2. Thus, a system, a moving mechanism, a positioning mechanism, and a culture chip connection mechanism that improve operability can be provided.

[0122] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 1…system, 2…structure, 3…moving mechanism, 4…positioning mechanism, 5…imaging part, 10…culture chip (chip), 35A, 35B…locking mechanism, 36…force application component, 40…arm, 41…positioning protrusion, 101…cell culture device (fluid circuit device), 102…culture chip connection mechanism.

Claims

1. A system comprising: Structure; A movable mechanism that enables the structure to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position, the movable mechanism allowing the chip to be connected in a detachable manner; and A positioning mechanism is connected to the moving mechanism, and the positioning mechanism is configured to position the chip.

2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The chip can be mounted and detached relative to the moving mechanism in a first direction. The moving mechanism is configured to move in a second direction that intersects the first direction.

3. The system as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The moving mechanism includes a locking mechanism that locks the structure at the first position and / or the second position.

4. The system as described in claim 3, wherein, The moving mechanism includes a force-applying member that applies force to the structure in a direction that results in the unlocked state where the locked state is released.

5. The system as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The chip can be mounted and detached relative to the moving mechanism in a first direction. The positioning mechanism is configured to position the chip in a second direction intersecting the first direction and in a third direction intersecting both the first and second directions.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein, The positioning mechanism includes a pair of arms that extend in the first direction and are opposite to each other in the third direction.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein, The positioning mechanism has a pair of positioning protrusions that protrude from the pair of arms toward the third direction and are opposite to each other.

8. The system as described in claim 1 or 2, further comprising an imaging unit disposed on the structure for imaging the chip.

9. The system as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first position and the second position are each located on a vertical line.

10. A moving mechanism that enables a structure to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position, said structure being configured to allow for the assembly and disassembly of piping for the flow of fluids for cell culture. The moving mechanism has a chip capable of storing the fluid used for cell culture.

11. Use of the moving mechanism of claim 10 in a fluid loop device.

12. A positioning mechanism connected to a moving mechanism and configured to position a chip, the moving mechanism being capable of moving a structure between a first position and a second position different from the first position, for the chip to be connected in a detachable manner.

13. Use of the positioning mechanism of claim 12 in a fluid circuit device.

14. A culture chip connection mechanism configured to allow a fluid loop device to move between a first position and a second position different from the first position, enabling the culture chip to be connected in a detachable manner. in, The culture chip can be attached to and detached from the culture chip connection mechanism in a first direction. The culture chip connection mechanism includes a movable mechanism section configured to move in a second direction that intersects the first direction.

15. The culture chip connection mechanism as claimed in claim 14, further comprising a positioning mechanism connected to the moving mechanism, configured to position the culture chip.

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