Liquid flow system for flow cytometer and flow cytometer

Abstract

The utility model discloses a liquid flow system for a flow cytometer and the flow cytometer, and belongs to the technical field of cell sap analysis. The liquid flow system for the flow cytometer comprises a flow chamber and a detection chamber, the flow chamber is provided with a sample liquid flow channel, sheath liquid flow channels, an annular flow channel and a mixing chamber, an outlet of the sample liquid flow channel is communicated with an inlet of the mixing chamber, the annular flow channel is annularly arranged around the sample liquid flow channel, at least two sheath liquid flow channels are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the sample liquid flow channel, and the sheath liquid flow channels are communicated with the mixing chamber. An outlet of the sheath fluid flow channel is communicated with one end of the annular flow channel, and the other end of the annular flow channel is communicated with an inlet of the mixing chamber; the detection chamber is located at the downstream of the flowing chamber and comprises a detection tube, and an inlet of the detection tube is communicated with an outlet of the mixing chamber so as to receive the sample liquid surrounded by the sheath liquid in the mixing chamber. According to the liquid flow system for the flow cytometer, sheath liquid and sample liquid can be uniformly mixed and stably flow, so that an accurate test result is obtained.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of cell fluid analysis technology, specifically to a fluid flow system for a flow cytometer and a flow cytometer. Background Technology

[0002] Flow cytometry is a technique for the rapid quantitative analysis and sorting of cells or other biological particles (such as microspheres, bacteria, and small model organisms) arranged in a single file in a liquid stream. It involves irradiating cells with lasers or other light sources and measuring light scattering and fluorescence signals to obtain various characteristic information about the cells, such as size, shape, surface markers, and internal components. Flow cytometry has the following applications: 1) Immunophenotyping analysis: used to identify and classify different types of cells, such as white blood cells; 2) Cell cycle analysis: assessing different stages of cell division; 3) Cell counting: quantitatively analyzing the number of cells in a sample; 4) Functional assays: assessing the functional state of cells, such as cell viability and apoptosis. Flow cytometry's high throughput and high precision have led to its widespread application in basic research, clinical diagnostics, and drug development.

[0003] Flow cytometers typically include a fluidization system and a detection device. The fluidization system guides a sample solution surrounded by sheath fluid through the detection area as a single sample; the detection device acquires characteristic information of the sample passing through the detection area. However, in related technologies, the fluidization system includes a sample solution channel and a sheath fluid channel located to one side of the sample solution channel. Both the sheath fluid channel and the sample solution channel have outlets connected to a mixing chamber, allowing the sheath fluid in the sheath fluid channel to mix with the sample in the sample solution channel before flowing to the detection area. This configuration can lead to uneven mixing and unstable flow of the sheath fluid and sample, thus affecting the accuracy of the test results.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a flow cytometer fluidization system to solve the above problems. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to solve or at least alleviate some or all of the aforementioned problems. Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to provide a flow cytometer system and flow cytometer that can uniformly mix and stably flow sheath fluid and sample fluid, thereby ensuring the accuracy of test results.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] A flow cytometer fluidization system, comprising:

[0008] A flow chamber has a sample fluid channel, a sheath fluid channel, an annular channel, and a mixing chamber. The inlet of the sample fluid channel is connected to a sample fluid storage unit, and the outlet of the sample fluid channel is connected to the inlet of the mixing chamber. The annular channel is arranged around the sample fluid channel. There are at least two sheath fluid channels, which are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the sample fluid channel and are both located upstream of the annular channel. The inlet of the sheath fluid channel is connected to the sheath fluid storage unit, the outlet of the sheath fluid channel is connected to one end of the annular channel, and the other end of the annular channel is connected to the inlet of the mixing chamber.

[0009] The detection chamber, located downstream of the flow chamber, includes a detection tube whose inlet is connected to the outlet of the mixing chamber to receive the sample solution surrounded by sheath fluid in the mixing chamber.

[0010] Preferably, the inner diameter of the annular flow channel gradually decreases along the flow direction of the sample liquid; and / or the inner diameter of the mixing chamber gradually decreases along the flow direction of the sample liquid.

[0011] Preferably, the flow chamber comprises:

[0012] The main body has a receiving cavity and a first mounting hole communicating with the receiving cavity, and at least two sheath fluid flow channels are formed on the main body and arranged around the first mounting hole;

[0013] A liquid-passing wall is disposed in the accommodating cavity, and a through liquid-passing channel is provided on the liquid-passing wall;

[0014] The injection needle includes a first mounting part and a needle part connected to each other. The first mounting part is connected to the main body, and the needle part is sequentially inserted into the first mounting hole and the liquid passage. The needle part has a sample liquid flow channel, and the outer wall of the needle part and the inner wall of the liquid passage form the annular flow channel.

[0015] Preferably, the liquid-passing wall is positioned adjustablely within the accommodating cavity.

[0016] Preferably, the flow chamber further includes a first adjusting member, which is connected to the main body and can adjust the relative position between the liquid-passing wall and the main body.

[0017] Preferably, the testing chamber further includes a testing support member, which is connected to the end of the main body away from the first mounting part, and the testing tube passes through the testing support member.

[0018] Preferably, the flow cytometer fluid system further includes an adjustment component configured to adjust the relative position between the detection chamber and the flow chamber.

[0019] Preferably, the flow cytometer fluid system further includes a waste collection unit, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the detection tube to collect waste liquid discharged from the detection tube.

[0020] This invention also provides a flow cytometer, including a detection device and a flow cytometer system as described above, wherein the detection device can excite the sample liquid components labeled with fluorescent dye in the detection tube and collect the fluorescence signal.

[0021] Preferably, the testing chamber has a clearance window for avoiding the testing device.

[0022] The beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0023] The flow cytometer system provided by this invention, by setting at least two sheath fluid channels around the sample fluid channel, allows the sheath fluid to flow more evenly and stably into the annular channel. By setting an annular channel around the sample fluid channel, the sample fluid in the sample fluid channel can be completely surrounded by the sheath fluid in the annular channel when it enters the mixing chamber. This allows the sample fluid to flow into the detection tube in a single row under the entrainment of the sheath fluid, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the test results.

[0024] The flow cytometer provided by this invention, by applying the above-mentioned flow cytometer fluid flow system, can make the sheath fluid and sample fluid mix evenly and flow stably, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the test results. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of this utility model will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the content of the embodiments of this utility model and these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the flow cytometer system provided in this embodiment of the present invention from one perspective.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the flow cytometer system provided in this embodiment of the present invention from another perspective;

[0028] Figure 3This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the fluid flow system for a flow cytometer provided in this embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the main body provided in an embodiment of the present invention from one perspective;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of the main body provided in an embodiment of the present invention from another perspective;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the liquid-passing enclosure provided in an embodiment of the present invention from one perspective;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the injection needle provided in an embodiment of the present invention from one viewpoint;

[0033] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the injection needle provided in an embodiment of the present invention from another perspective;

[0034] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the liquid-passing enclosure provided in an embodiment of the present invention from another perspective;

[0035] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the detection support provided in this embodiment of the utility model.

[0036] Figure label:

[0037] 100. Fluid flow system for flow cytometer; 200. Detection device;

[0038] 1. Flow chamber; 1001. Sample liquid flow channel; 1002. Sheath liquid flow channel; 1003. Annular flow channel; 1004. Mixing chamber; 11. Main body; 110. Receptacle; 111. First mounting hole; 112. Second connecting hole; 12. Liquid-passing wall; 121. Second mounting groove; 122. Positioning protrusion; 123. Third mounting groove; 13. Injection needle; 131. First mounting part; 1311. Second mounting hole; 1312. Perforation; 1313. First connecting hole; 1314. First mounting groove; 132. Needle part; 14. First adjusting component; 15. Clamping component; 16. Connecting component;

[0039] 2. Testing chamber; 21. Testing tube; 22. Testing support; 221. Second mounting part; 2211. Positioning groove; 222. Frame part; 2221. Clearance window; 2222. Third mounting hole;

[0040] 31. First seal; 32. Second seal; 33. Third seal;

[0041] 41. Sample solution connector; 42. Sheath fluid connector; 43. Waste solution connector;

[0042] 5. Adjusting ring. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Before explaining any embodiment of the present invention in detail, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to its application to the structural details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the above drawings.

[0044] In this invention, the terms "comprising," "including," "having," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0045] In this invention, the term "and / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. Additionally, in this invention, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "and / or" relationship.

[0046] In this invention, the terms "connection," "combination," "coupling," and "installation" can refer to direct connection, combination, coupling, or installation, or indirect connection, combination, coupling, or installation. For example, a direct connection refers to two parts or components being connected together without the need for an intermediary, while an indirect connection refers to two parts or components each being connected to at least one intermediary, with the connection achieved through the intermediary. Furthermore, "connection" and "coupling" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, but can also include electrical connections or couplings.

[0047] In this invention, those skilled in the art will understand that relative terms (e.g., “about,” “approximately,” “basically,” etc.) used in conjunction with quantities or conditions are to include the value and have the meaning indicated by the context. For example, such relative terms include at least the degree of error associated with the measurement of a particular value, tolerances associated with the particular value due to manufacturing, assembly, use, etc. Such terms should also be considered as disclosing a range defined by the absolute values ​​of the two endpoints. Relative terms may refer to a certain percentage (e.g., 1%, 5%, 10% or more) of the indicated value. Numerical values ​​not using relative terms should also be disclosed as specific values ​​with tolerances. Furthermore, “basically” when expressing relative angular relationships (e.g., substantially parallel, substantially perpendicular) may refer to a certain degree (e.g., 1 degree, 5 degrees, 10 degrees or more) added to or subtracted from the indicated angle.

[0048] In this invention, those skilled in the art will understand that the function performed by a component can be performed by one component, multiple components, one part, or multiple parts. Similarly, the function performed by a part can be performed by one part, one component, or a combination of multiple parts.

[0049] In this utility model, the directional terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," and "rear" are used to describe the orientation and positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this utility model. Furthermore, in the context, it should be understood that when one element is mentioned as being connected "upper" or "lower" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element "upper" or "lower," or indirectly connected through an intermediate element. It should also be understood that directional terms such as upper side, lower side, left side, right side, front side, and rear side not only represent the direct orientation but can also be understood as the lateral orientation. For example, "below" can include directly below, lower left, lower right, lower front, and lower rear.

[0050] Figure 1 This embodiment shows a schematic diagram of the flow cytometer fluidization system 100 from one perspective. The flow cytometer includes a flow cytometer fluidization system 100 and a detection device 200. The flow cytometer fluidization system 100 includes a flow chamber 1 and a detection chamber 2. The flow chamber 1 mixes sample solution and sheath fluid, so that the sample solution flows sequentially into the detection chamber 2 in a single stream under the influence of the sheath fluid. The detection device 200 excites the sample solution components labeled with fluorescent dye in the detection chamber 2, collects fluorescence signals, and transmits these signals to an analysis module. The analysis module analyzes the fluorescence signals to obtain various parameter information of the sample solution.

[0051] This embodiment does not limit the specific structure of the detection device 200. All detection devices that can be applied to flow cytometers to detect sample solutions in the prior art are within the protection scope of this embodiment.

[0052] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the flow cytometer system 100 provided in this embodiment is shown from another perspective. Figure 3 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the flow cytometer fluidization system 100 provided in this embodiment is shown. Figures 2-3 and combined Figure 1 As shown, the flow chamber 1 has a sample liquid flow channel 1001, a sheath fluid flow channel 1002, an annular flow channel 1003, and a mixing chamber 1004. The inlet of the sample liquid flow channel 1001 is connected to the sample liquid storage unit, and the outlet of the sample liquid flow channel 1001 is connected to the inlet of the mixing chamber 1004. The annular flow channel 1003 is arranged around the sample liquid flow channel 1001. There are at least two sheath fluid flow channels 1002, and the at least two sheath fluid flow channels 1002 are spaced apart circumferentially from the sample liquid flow channel 1001. The flow chambers are arranged and located upstream of the annular flow channel 1003. The inlet of the sheath fluid flow channel 1002 is connected to the sheath fluid storage unit, and the outlet of the sheath fluid flow channel 1002 is connected to one end of the annular flow channel 1003. The other end of the annular flow channel 1003 is connected to the inlet of the mixing chamber 1004. The detection chamber 2 is located downstream of the flow chamber 1. The detection chamber 2 includes a detection tube 21. The inlet of the detection tube 21 is connected to the outlet of the mixing chamber 1004 to receive the sample liquid surrounded by sheath fluid in the mixing chamber 1004.

[0053] It should be noted that the sample liquid storage unit specifically refers to a container for storing sample liquid, and the sheath fluid storage unit specifically refers to a container for storing sheath fluid. Both are conventional devices in the field, and the specific structures of the sample liquid storage unit and the sheath fluid storage unit will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0054] The flow cytometer fluid system 100 provided in this embodiment, by providing at least two sheath fluid channels 1002 around the sample fluid channel 1001, allows the sheath fluid to flow more uniformly and stably into the annular channel 1003. By providing an annular channel 1003 around the sample fluid channel 1001, the sample fluid in the sample fluid channel 1001 is completely surrounded by the sheath fluid in the annular channel 1003 when it enters the mixing chamber 1004, thus forming a stable laminar flow and mixing as needed. This allows the sample fluid to flow into the detection tube 21 in a single row under the entrainment of the sheath fluid, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the detection results.

[0055] Optionally, in this embodiment, the number of sheath fluid channels 1002 is four. The four sheath fluid channels 1002 are evenly and spaced apart along the circumference of the sample fluid channel 1001, and the included angle between two adjacent sheath fluid channels 1002 is 90°. Of course, in other embodiments, the number of sheath fluid channels 1002 can also be two, three, five, six, or even more, and is not limited here.

[0056] Figure 4 The diagram shows a structural schematic of the main body 11 provided in this embodiment from one perspective. Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the main body 11 provided in this embodiment from another perspective is shown. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the liquid-passing enclosure 12 provided in this embodiment is shown from one perspective. Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the injection needle 13 provided in this embodiment is shown from one viewpoint. (See diagram below.) Figures 4-7 and combined Figure 3 As shown, the flow chamber 1 includes a main body 11, a liquid-passing wall 12, and a sample injection needle 13. The main body 11 has a accommodating cavity 110 and a first mounting hole 111 communicating with the accommodating cavity 110. At least two sheath fluid flow channels 1002 are formed on the main body 11 and are arranged around the first mounting hole 111. The liquid-passing wall 12 is disposed in the accommodating cavity 110 and has a through liquid-passing channel. The sample injection needle 13 includes a first mounting part 131 and a needle part 132 connected to each other. The first mounting part 131 is connected to the main body 11, and the needle part 132 passes through the first mounting hole 111 and the liquid-passing channel in sequence. A sample fluid flow channel 1001 is formed in the needle part 132, and the outer wall of the needle part 132 and the inner wall of the liquid-passing channel form the aforementioned annular flow channel 1003. By setting the flow chamber 1 as a separate main body 11, a liquid-passing wall 12, and a sample injection needle 13, it is easier for operators to process corresponding channels on each structure, thereby simplifying the processing technology and improving processing efficiency.

[0057] like Figure 3 As shown, a second mounting hole 1311 communicating with the sample liquid flow channel 1001 is also provided on the first mounting part 131. The diameter of the second mounting hole 1311 is larger than the diameter of the sample liquid flow channel 1001. The second mounting hole 1311 is used to connect the sample liquid connector 41. One end of the sample liquid connector 41 extending out of the first mounting part 131 is connected to the sample liquid storage unit to realize the sample liquid transfer between the sample liquid storage unit and the sample liquid flow channel 1001 and ensure its smooth flow. In this embodiment, the sample liquid connector 41 is threaded into the second mounting hole 1311, which provides a stable connection and convenient assembly and disassembly.

[0058] Optionally, the first mounting portion 131 is further provided with perforations 1312 corresponding to and communicating with the sheath fluid flow channels 1002. The sheath fluid flow channels 1002 are stepped flow channels, with the larger diameter section of the sheath fluid flow channel 1002 facing the first mounting portion 131 and the smaller diameter section of the sheath fluid flow channel 1002 located near the annular flow channel 1003. One end of the sheath fluid connector 42 is connected to the sheath fluid storage unit, and the other end of the sheath fluid connector 42 passes through the perforation 1312 and is connected to the larger diameter section of the sheath fluid flow channel 1002 to realize the sheath fluid transfer between the sheath fluid storage unit and the sheath fluid flow channel 1002 and ensure its smooth flow. In this embodiment, the sheath fluid connector 42 is threadedly connected to the larger diameter section of the sheath fluid flow channel 1002, which provides a stable connection and is easy to install and remove.

[0059] Optionally, in this embodiment, the pore size of the sample solution flow channel 1001 is 300 μm, making the flow cytometer applicable to the detection of any sample solution in the prior art, thus exhibiting high versatility. Of course, this embodiment does not limit the specific value of the pore size of the sample solution flow channel 1001; designers can adjust the pore size of the sample solution flow channel 1001 on the corresponding injection needle 13 according to different types and diameters of sample solutions in the prior art.

[0060] like Figure 2 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 7 As shown, in order to achieve a stable connection between the main body 11 and the injection needle 13, a first connection hole 1313 is provided on the first mounting part 131, and a second connection hole 112 corresponding to the first connection hole 1313 is provided on the main body 11. Fasteners are sequentially inserted into the first connection hole 1313 and the second connection hole 112, thereby connecting the main body 11 and the injection needle 13 together.

[0061] In this embodiment, there are four first connecting holes 1313, each corresponding to a second connecting hole 112 and a fastener, to further improve the stability of the connection between the body 11 and the injection needle 13. Of course, in other embodiments, the number of first connecting holes 1313 can be two, three, five, six, or even more, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0062] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the injection needle 13 provided in this embodiment is shown from another perspective. (See diagram below.) Figure 8 and combined Figure 3As shown, a first sealing element 31 is also provided between the injection needle 13 and the main body 11 to achieve a seal between the injection needle 13 and the main body 11, preventing the sheath fluid in the annular flow channel 1003 from leaking through the gap between the injection needle 13 and the main body 11, thus affecting the detection results. Optionally, a first mounting groove 1314 for installing the first sealing element 31 is provided on the injection needle 13 to achieve the positioning and installation of the first sealing element 31 and prevent it from falling off or shifting during use. In this embodiment, the first sealing element 31 is disposed between the first mounting part 131 and the main body 11, that is, the first mounting groove 1314 is disposed on the first mounting part 131. Of course, in other embodiments, the first sealing element 31 can also be disposed between the needle part 132 and the main body 11, that is, the first mounting groove 1314 is disposed on the side wall of the needle part 132, or the first mounting groove 1314 is disposed on the main body 11, all of which can achieve the above-mentioned effects.

[0063] like Figures 2-6 As shown, the liquid-passing wall 12 is adjustablely positioned in the accommodating cavity 110. By adjusting the installation position of the liquid-passing wall 12 in the accommodating cavity 110, the centering adjustment between the sample liquid flow channel 1001 and the annular flow channel 1003 can be achieved, so as to further ensure that the sample liquid and sheath liquid form a stable laminar flow and improve the detection accuracy.

[0064] Specifically, the flow chamber 1 further includes a first adjusting member 14, which is connected to the main body 11 and can adjust the relative position between the liquid-containing wall 12 and the main body 11. In this embodiment, the first adjusting member 14 includes at least three first adjusting screws spaced circumferentially along the main body 11. One end of each first adjusting screw is screwed onto the main body 11, and the other end presses against the side wall of the liquid-containing wall 12. By screwing the first adjusting screws, the screwing depth on the main body 11 is changed, thereby pushing the liquid-containing wall 12 to move within the receiving cavity 110, thus achieving the adjustment of the relative position between the liquid-containing wall 12 and the main body 11. This configuration is simple in structure, and the operator only needs a simple screwing action to adjust the position of the liquid-containing wall 12, which is convenient and quick.

[0065] like Figure 3 and Figure 6As shown, the inner diameter of the annular flow channel 1003 gradually decreases along the flow direction of the sample liquid. This arrangement allows the sheath fluid to gradually converge towards the center of the annular flow channel 1003 and flow into the mixing chamber 1004, thereby entraining the sample liquid flowing simultaneously from the sample liquid flow channel 1001 into the mixing chamber 1004. Specifically, the annular flow channel 1003 includes a first flow channel and a second flow channel that are connected. The first flow channel is located upstream of the second flow channel, and the slope of the first flow channel wall is smaller, resulting in a gentler transition. The slope of the second flow channel wall is larger. This design allows the opening of the first flow channel towards the sheath fluid flow channel 1002 to be larger, enabling the sheath fluid in the sheath fluid flow channel 1002 to flow quickly and stably into the annular flow channel 1003; the opening of the second flow channel towards the mixing chamber 1004 is smaller, so that the sheath fluid in the annular flow channel 1003 gathers towards the center and flows into the mixing chamber 1004, thereby entraining the sample fluid flowing out from the sample fluid flow channel 1001 into the mixing chamber 1004, thus forming a stable laminar flow.

[0066] In actual processing, the slope of the flow channel wall of the first flow channel, the slope of the flow channel wall of the second flow channel, and the aperture of the sample liquid flow channel 1001 are all obtained through multiple tests and simulations, so as to ensure that the sheath liquid and the sample liquid are mixed in the mixing chamber 1004 as needed, and that the mixture of sheath liquid and sample liquid passes through the detection tube 21 in an orderly manner.

[0067] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the liquid-passing enclosure 12 provided in this embodiment is shown from another perspective. Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the detection support 22 provided in this embodiment is shown. Figures 9-10 and combined Figure 3 As shown, the detection chamber 2 also includes a detection support 22, which is connected to the end of the main body 11 opposite to the first mounting part 131. The detection tube 21 passes through the detection support 22. By setting the detection support 22, stable support can be achieved for the detection tube 21, so as to avoid bending during the detection process due to the small diameter of the detection tube 21, which would prevent the mixed sample liquid and sheath liquid from passing smoothly through the detection tube 21. In this embodiment, the detection tube 21 is a capillary glass tube with a cross-section of 0.1mm × 0.1mm square. Of course, this embodiment does not limit the size of the detection tube 21, and the designer can adjust the size of the detection tube 21 according to the actual detection requirements.

[0068] Furthermore, the detection support 22 includes a second mounting portion 221 and a frame portion 222 connected to the second mounting portion 221. The second mounting portion 221 is connected to the flow chamber 1, and the second mounting portion 221 and the liquid passage of the liquid passage wall 12 enclose the aforementioned mixing chamber 1004. One end of the detection tube 21 passes through the second mounting portion 221 and extends into the mixing chamber 1004, while the other end of the detection tube 21 passes through the frame portion 222.

[0069] Optionally, the inner diameter of the mixing chamber 1004 gradually decreases along the flow direction of the sample liquid to guide the mixture of sheath fluid and sample liquid, allowing it to flow smoothly into the detection tube 21 along the inclined inner wall of the mixing chamber 1004.

[0070] To achieve accurate installation between the detection support 22 and the flow chamber 1, the detection support 22 (specifically the second mounting part 221) is provided with a positioning groove 2211, and the liquid-passing wall 12 is provided with a positioning protrusion 122 on the side facing the detection chamber 2. The positioning protrusion 122 can be inserted into the positioning groove 2211 to achieve the positioning installation of the detection support 22 and the flow chamber 1.

[0071] like Figures 1-3 As shown, the flow cytometer fluid system 100 also includes an adjustment assembly configured to adjust the relative position between the detection chamber 2 and the flow chamber 1. Specifically, the adjustment assembly includes an adjustment ring 5 and a second adjustment member. The adjustment ring 5 is sleeved on the detection support 22 (specifically the second mounting part 221) and the main body 11, and is connected to the main body 11. The second adjustment member is connected to the main body 11 and can adjust the relative position between the detection support 22 and the main body 11. In this embodiment, the second adjustment member includes at least three second adjustment screws spaced circumferentially along the adjustment ring 5. One end of each second adjustment screw is screwed onto the adjustment ring 5, and the other end presses against the side wall of the detection support 22. By screwing the second adjustment screws, the screwing depth on the adjustment ring 5 is changed, thereby pushing the detection support 22 to move relative to the main body 11, thereby adjusting the relative position between the detection support 22 and the main body 11 to ensure the alignment of the detection tube 21 and the mixing chamber 1004. This setup is simple in structure, and operators only need to perform simple turning actions to adjust the position of the detection support 22, which is convenient and quick.

[0072] It should be explained that there is a gap between the positioning protrusion 122 and the positioning groove 2211 to provide sufficient space for the movement of the detection support 22 relative to the main body 11. The specific size of this gap is not limited in this embodiment, and the designer can adjust the specific value of the gap according to the actual installation requirements.

[0073] like Figure 3As shown, the adjusting ring 5 and the main body 11 are connected by a fastener (not shown in the figure) to achieve a stable connection between them. Optionally, the fastener is a fixing screw, which has the advantages of simple structure, stable connection and convenient assembly and disassembly.

[0074] like Figure 3 and Figure 9 As shown, a third sealing element 33 is also provided between the second mounting part 221 and the liquid-passing enclosure wall 12 to ensure the sealing between the second mounting part 221 and the liquid-passing enclosure wall 12, and to prevent the mixture of sample liquid and sheath liquid in the mixing chamber 1004 from leaking from the gap between the second mounting part 221 and the liquid-passing enclosure wall 12, thus affecting the test results. Optionally, in this embodiment, the liquid-passing enclosure wall 12 (specifically the positioning protrusion 122) is provided with a third mounting groove 123 for installing the third sealing element 33, so as to realize the positioning installation of the third sealing element 33 and prevent it from falling off or shifting during use. Of course, in other embodiments, the third sealing element 33 can also be provided on the second mounting part 221, which can achieve the same effect.

[0075] like Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, a second sealing element 32 is provided between the liquid-passing wall 12 and the cavity wall of the receiving cavity 110 to ensure the sealing between the liquid-passing wall 12 and the main body 11, preventing the sheath fluid in the annular flow channel 1003 from leaking from the gap between the liquid-passing wall 12 and the receiving cavity 110, thus affecting the test results. In this embodiment, a second mounting groove 121 for installing the second sealing element 32 is provided on the liquid-passing wall 12 to achieve the positioning and installation of the second sealing element 32 and prevent it from falling off or shifting during use. Of course, in other embodiments, the second mounting groove 121 can also be provided on the cavity wall of the receiving cavity 110, which can achieve the same effect.

[0076] To ensure that the liquid-passing wall 12 can always press the second seal 32 tightly, the flow chamber 1 also includes a pressing member 15 and a connecting member 16. The pressing member 15 is disposed between the second mounting part 221 and the liquid-passing wall 12, and the connecting member 16 is used to connect the second mounting part 221, the pressing member 15 and the liquid-passing wall 12 in sequence to realize the connection of the three and make the second seal 32 tightly pressed against the wall between the liquid-passing wall 12 and the cavity wall of the receiving cavity 110.

[0077] like Figure 3 and Figure 10 As shown, the testing chamber 2 has a clearance window 2221 for avoiding the lens of the testing device 200, thereby providing sufficient space for the movement of the testing device 200. Specifically, the clearance window 2221 is provided on the frame portion 222.

[0078] Continue as Figure 3 As shown, the flow cytometer fluid system 100 also includes a waste collection unit (not shown in the figure). The inlet of the waste collection unit is connected to the outlet of the detection tube 21 to collect the waste liquid discharged from the detection tube 21. After the detection device 200 has finished detecting the mixture of sample liquid and sheath fluid in the detection tube 21, the mixture can be discharged to the waste collection unit for centralized recycling, avoiding direct discharge of the mixture and causing environmental pollution.

[0079] Specifically, a third mounting hole 2222 is provided at the end of the frame portion 222 away from the second mounting portion 221. The third mounting hole 2222 is a stepped hole, with its larger diameter section facing away from the second mounting portion 221 and its smaller diameter section close to the second mounting portion 221. The end of the detection tube 21 away from the second mounting portion 221 passes through the smaller diameter section of the third mounting hole 2222. The larger diameter section of the third mounting hole 2222 is connected to one end of the waste liquid connector 43, and the other end of the waste liquid connector 43 is connected to the waste liquid collection unit. Optionally, the waste liquid connector 43 is threaded to the larger diameter section of the third mounting hole 2222, providing a secure connection and facilitating assembly and disassembly.

[0080] Optionally, the main body 11, the liquid-passing wall 12, the injection needle 13, and the detection support 22 are all made of 304 stainless steel through machining, which has high structural strength and low processing cost. When machining the sample liquid flow channel 1001, the sheath liquid flow channel 1002, and the liquid-passing channels on the liquid-passing wall 12, the walls of the above-mentioned flow channels need to be polished to reduce the influence of the flow channel walls on the sheath liquid and sample liquid, and further ensure that the sheath liquid and sample liquid can form a stable liquid flow.

[0081] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles, main features, and advantages of this utility model. Those skilled in the art should understand that the above embodiments do not limit this utility model in any way, and all technical solutions obtained by equivalent substitution or equivalent transformation fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A fluid flow system for a flow cytometer, characterized by, include: A flow chamber (1) has a sample fluid flow channel (1001), a sheath fluid flow channel (1002), an annular flow channel (1003), and a mixing chamber (1004). The inlet of the sample fluid flow channel (1001) is connected to a sample fluid storage unit, and the outlet of the sample fluid flow channel (1001) is connected to the inlet of the mixing chamber (1004). The annular flow channel (1003) is arranged around the sample fluid flow channel (1001), and the sheath fluid flow channel (1002)... The number is at least two, and at least two of the sheath fluid channels (1002) are arranged circumferentially at intervals along the sample fluid channel (1001), and are all located upstream of the annular channel (1003). The inlet of the sheath fluid channel (1002) is connected to the sheath fluid storage unit, the outlet of the sheath fluid channel (1002) is connected to one end of the annular channel (1003), and the other end of the annular channel (1003) is connected to the inlet of the mixing chamber (1004). The detection chamber (2) is located downstream of the flow chamber (1). The detection chamber (2) includes a detection tube (21), the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the mixing chamber (1004) to receive the sample liquid surrounded by sheath fluid in the mixing chamber (1004).

2. The fluid flow system for a flow cytometer of claim 1, wherein, The inner diameter of the annular flow channel (1003) gradually decreases along the flow direction of the sample liquid; and / or The inner diameter of the mixing chamber (1004) gradually decreases along the flow direction of the sample liquid.

3. The fluid flow system for a flow cytometer of claim 1, wherein, The flow chamber (1) includes: The main body (11) has a receiving cavity (110) and a first mounting hole (111) communicating with the receiving cavity (110), and at least two sheath fluid flow channels (1002) are opened on the main body (11) and are arranged around the first mounting hole (111); A liquid-passing wall (12) is disposed in the accommodating cavity (110), and a through liquid-passing channel is provided on the liquid-passing wall (12); The injection needle (13) includes a first mounting part (131) and a needle part (132) connected to each other. The first mounting part (131) is connected to the main body (11), and the needle part (132) is sequentially inserted into the first mounting hole (111) and the liquid passage. The sample liquid flow channel (1001) is opened in the needle part (132), and the annular flow channel (1003) is formed between the outer wall of the needle part (132) and the inner wall of the liquid passage.

4. The fluid flow system for a flow cytometer of claim 3, wherein, The liquid-passing enclosure (12) is adjustablely positioned within the accommodating cavity (110).

5. The fluid flow system for a flow cytometer of claim 4, wherein, The flow chamber (1) further includes a first adjusting member (14), which is connected to the main body (11) and can adjust the relative position between the liquid-passing wall (12) and the main body (11).

6. The flow cytometer system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The testing chamber (2) also includes a testing support (22), which is connected to the end of the main body (11) away from the first mounting part (131), and the testing tube (21) passes through the testing support (22).

7. The flow cytometer system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The flow cytometer fluid system also includes an adjustment component configured to adjust the relative position between the detection chamber (2) and the flow chamber (1).

8. The flow cytometer system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The flow cytometer fluid system also includes a waste collection unit, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the detection tube (21) to collect waste liquid discharged from the detection tube (21).

9. A flow cytometer, characterized in that, Includes a detection device (200) and a flow cytometer system as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the detection device (200) is capable of exciting the sample solution component labeled with a fluorescent dye in the detection tube (21) and collecting the fluorescence signal.

10. The flow cytometer according to claim 9, characterized in that, The detection chamber (2) has a clearance window (2221) for avoiding the detection device (200).

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