Liquid path system of flow cytometer

Abstract

The utility model provides a fluid path system of a flow cytometer, which comprises a fluid inlet pipeline, a positive pressure fluid supply pipeline and an analysis pipeline, the fluid inlet pipeline comprises a sheath fluid barrel, a fluid inlet diaphragm pump, a damper and a sheath fluid pool which are connected in sequence, the sheath fluid pool is provided with a sheath fluid exhaust hole, a lower liquid level sensor is arranged in the sheath fluid pool, and the lower liquid level sensor is connected with the positive pressure fluid supply pipeline. The signal change generated when the lower liquid level sensor detects the liquid level is used for controlling the flow speed of the liquid inlet diaphragm pump; the positive pressure liquid supply pipeline comprises an air filter, an air pump and a proportional valve which are connected in sequence, the analysis pipeline comprises a liquid filter, a membrane contactor and a flow chamber which are connected in sequence, and the flow sensor is located on a channel where the membrane contactor is connected with the flow chamber; according to the sheath fluid flow speed monitored by the flow sensor, the sheath fluid flow is adjusted by adjusting the opening degree of the proportional valve, and sheath fluid fluctuation and flow speed periodic changes of the flow chamber are reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of flow cytometers, and more particularly to a liquid circuit system for a flow cytometer. Background Technology

[0002] A flow cytometer is a device for automated analysis and sorting of cells. The fluid flow system is one of the core components of a flow cytometer, mainly responsible for sample focusing and transport. The cell suspension sample is pressurized and enters the flow chamber, where a stable laminar flow is formed under the protection of the outer sheath fluid, causing the cells to be "straightened" into a single file and pass through the detection area.

[0003] The stability of the laminar flow state of the sample after sheath fluid encapsulates it in the flow chamber is an important factor affecting the performance of flow cytometer testing. The degree of fluctuation and periodic changes in the flow velocity of the sheath fluid in the flow chamber during the test process have a particularly significant impact on the flow cytometer.

[0004] Existing methods of supplying fluid to the flow chamber using diaphragm pumps or peristaltic pumps with dampers have little effect on eliminating sheath fluid fluctuations. Significant fluctuations can interfere with the normal flow of samples within the flow chamber, thereby affecting the testing results of flow cytometers.

[0005] In existing methods of pressurizing and sealing the sheath fluid reservoir with an air pump, the air pump is controlled by setting upper and lower limits using an air pressure sensor to force the sheath fluid into the flow chamber. However, this approach also has a problem: the flow rate of the sheath fluid within the flow chamber varies periodically with changes in air pressure. This periodic flow rate variation periodically affects the cell arrangement within the flow chamber, preventing cells from passing through the detection area in a stable and uniform manner, thus adversely impacting the performance of the flow cytometer.

[0006] Neither of the two existing solutions mentioned above has been able to effectively solve the problem of consistent sheath fluid flow velocity in the flow chamber caused by changes in fluid density and viscosity at different temperatures and differences in pipeline characteristics. Utility Model Content

[0007] This invention provides a fluid circuit system for a flow cytometer to ensure consistent flow rate of the sheath fluid in the flow chamber under varying fluid density and viscosity at different temperatures and differences in pipeline characteristics.

[0008] The embodiments of this utility model can be implemented as follows:

[0009] An embodiment of this utility model provides a fluid circuit system for a flow cytometer, comprising:

[0010] The inlet pipeline includes a sheath fluid tank, an inlet diaphragm pump, a damper, and a sheath fluid reservoir. The sheath fluid tank, the inlet diaphragm pump, the damper, and the sheath fluid reservoir are connected in sequence. The sheath fluid reservoir is provided with a sheath fluid vent hole. A lower liquid level sensor is installed in the sheath fluid reservoir. The signal change generated by the lower liquid level sensor when detecting the liquid level is used to control the flow rate of the inlet diaphragm pump.

[0011] A positive pressure liquid supply pipeline, comprising an air filter, an air pump, and a proportional valve, wherein the sheath liquid tank, the proportional valve, the air pump, and the air filter are connected in sequence;

[0012] An analytical pipeline, comprising a liquid filter, a membrane contactor, a flow sensor, and a flow chamber, wherein the sheath fluid reservoir, liquid filter, membrane contactor, and flow chamber are connected in sequence, and the flow sensor is located on the channel connecting the membrane contactor and the flow chamber;

[0013] Based on the sheath fluid flow rate monitored by the flow sensor, the sheath fluid flow rate is adjusted by regulating the opening of the proportional valve.

[0014] Optionally, an upper liquid level sensor is provided in the sheath fluid pool, and the upper liquid level sensor is located between the sheath fluid vent and the lower liquid level sensor.

[0015] Optionally, the positive pressure supply line further includes a pressure sensor, which is connected to the interior of the sheath fluid pool.

[0016] Optionally, the system also includes a sample injection line, which includes a sampling needle, an eight-channel syringe pump, a bubble detection sensor, and a three-way valve. The normally closed end of the three-way valve is connected to the flow chamber. The bubble detection sensor is installed on the channel connecting the three-way valve and the flow chamber. The normally open end of the three-way valve is connected to the sampling needle. The common end of the three-way valve is connected to channel 7 of the eight-channel syringe pump.

[0017] Optionally, the system also includes a cleaning pipeline, which includes a cleaning fluid tank, a shutdown fluid tank, and a cleaning pool. The cleaning fluid tank is connected to channel 5 of the eight-channel injection pump, the shutdown fluid tank is connected to channel 8 of the eight-channel injection pump, and the cleaning pool is connected to channel 6 of the eight-channel injection pump. The cleaning pool is fitted onto the outer wall of the sampling needle.

[0018] Optionally, the analytical pipeline further includes an analytical three-way valve, the common end of which is connected to the flow chamber, the normally open end of which is connected to channel 4 of the eight-channel syringe pump, and the normally closed end of which is connected to the membrane contactor.

[0019] Optionally, it also includes a waste liquid pipeline, which includes a waste liquid tank, a waste liquid diaphragm pump, a drain tank, a waste liquid inlet three-way valve, a relay waste liquid tank, a waste liquid outlet three-way valve, and a waste liquid two-way valve. The drain tank is located directly below the sampling needle. The drain tank is connected to the normally closed end of the waste liquid inlet three-way valve. The normally open end of the waste liquid inlet three-way valve is connected to the bottom of the relay waste liquid tank. The relay waste liquid tank is individually connected to channel 3 of the eight-channel injection pump and the flow chamber. The common end of the waste liquid inlet three-way valve is connected to the normally open end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve. The normally closed end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve is connected to the exhaust port of the membrane contactor. The common end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve is connected to the waste liquid tank. The waste liquid diaphragm pump is installed on the channel where the common end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve connects to the waste liquid tank.

[0020] Optionally, the sample inlet three-way valve, the waste liquid inlet three-way valve, and the waste liquid outlet three-way valve are all three-way solenoid valves. The three-way solenoid valve includes a normally open end, a common end, and a normally closed end. When the three-way solenoid valve is not open, the normally open end is connected to the common end, and the normally closed end is in a closed state. When the three-way solenoid valve is open, the normally closed end is connected to the common end, and the normally open end is in a closed state.

[0021] Optionally, the relay waste liquid tank is provided with an exhaust port;

[0022] The relay waste liquid tank is equipped with a waste liquid level sensor, which is located below the vent.

[0023] Optionally, the waste liquid pipeline further includes a two-way waste liquid valve, one end of which is connected to the relay waste liquid tank, and the other end of which is connected to the waste liquid outlet of the liquid filter.

[0024] Compared with existing technologies, this technical solution has the following advantages:

[0025] The sheath fluid in the sheath fluid tank passes through the inlet diaphragm pump and, after most of the fluctuations are eliminated by the damper, enters the sheath fluid pool. The air pump then forces the sheath fluid in the sheath fluid pool into the flow chamber 304.

[0026] The flow rate of the inlet diaphragm pump is adjusted by a lower liquid level sensor installed in the sheath fluid pool to ensure a constant liquid level in the sheath fluid pool.

[0027] The pressure of the sheath fluid in the sheath fluid pool is maintained stable by releasing overload pressure through the sheath fluid vent hole opened on the sheath fluid pool.

[0028] The flow rate of the sheath fluid flowing into the flow chamber is monitored by the flow sensor. Based on the sheath fluid flow rate, the opening of the proportional valve is adjusted to regulate the pressure output by the air pump to the sheath fluid pool, ultimately achieving precise adjustment of the sheath fluid flow rate. This reduces sheath fluid fluctuations and periodic changes in flow rate within the flow chamber, and ensures consistency of the sheath fluid flow rate under varying fluid density, viscosity, and pipeline characteristics at different temperatures. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a structural block diagram of the fluid circuit system of the flow cytometer described in this utility model.

[0030] In the diagram: 100 Sheath fluid tank, 101 Inlet diaphragm pump, 102 Damper, 103 Sheath fluid reservoir, 104 Lower level sensor, 105 Upper level sensor, 106 Sheath fluid vent, 200 Pressure sensor, 201 Air filter, 202 Air pump, 203 Proportional valve, 300 Liquid filter, 301 Membrane contactor, 302 Flow sensor, 303 Analytical three-way valve, 304 Flow chamber, 305 Sheath fluid inlet channel, 40 0. Sampling needle, 401. Eight-channel syringe pump, 402. Bubble detection sensor, 403. Sample inlet three-way valve, 404. Sample inlet channel, 500. Cleaning solution tank, 501. Shutdown solution tank, 502. Cleaning pool, 600. Waste liquid tank, 601. Waste liquid diaphragm pump, 602. Drainage tank, 603. Waste liquid inlet three-way valve, 604. Relay waste liquid tank, 605. Vent, 606. Waste liquid level sensor, 607. Waste liquid outlet three-way valve, 608. Waste liquid two-way valve. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this utility model described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0032] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0033] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0034] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "inner," or "outer" are used to indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship that the utility model product is usually placed in during use, they are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0035] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be interpreted as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0036] It should be noted that, where there is no conflict, the features in the embodiments of this utility model can be combined with each other.

[0037] As mentioned in the background section, the stability of the laminar flow state in the flow chamber after the sheath fluid encapsulates the sample is an important factor affecting the performance of flow cytometer testing. The degree of fluctuation and periodic changes in the flow velocity of the sheath fluid during the testing process have a particularly significant impact on the flow cytometer.

[0038] Existing diaphragm pumps and peristaltic pumps both achieve liquid transport through periodic mechanical motion. Taking a diaphragm pump as an example, the reciprocating motion of the diaphragm during operation causes periodic changes in pressure and flow rate at the pump outlet. Although dampers are added, they can only buffer these fluctuations to a certain extent and cannot eliminate them completely. For example, when there are large fluctuations in water pressure, the damper can only reduce the amplitude of the fluctuations, but cannot make the water flow completely stable. Flow cytometry requires extremely high stability of the sheath fluid flow rate; even small fluctuations in flow rate can affect the cell arrangement in the flow chamber and the accuracy of detection. The liquid supply method of diaphragm pumps or peristaltic pumps with dampers cannot meet this high-precision flow rate control requirement, thus affecting the accuracy and reliability of test results.

[0039] In existing technologies, when using an air pump to pressurize and seal the sheath fluid pool, the pressure output by the air pump may fluctuate. This pressure fluctuation is transmitted into the sheath fluid pool, thus affecting the output pressure and flow rate of the sheath fluid. When the sheath fluid pressure is unstable, the forces acting on the cells in the flow chamber also change, causing the cells to fail to align as expected and form a uniform single-cell flow.

[0040] Furthermore, the density and viscosity of a fluid change at different temperatures. When the fluid viscosity increases, the pump needs to overcome greater resistance during delivery, leading to more significant fluctuations in the pump's output pressure and flow rate. Dampers have limited effectiveness in suppressing these fluctuations caused by changes in fluid characteristics, making it difficult to ensure consistent sheath fluid velocity within the flow chamber.

[0041] Furthermore, the compressibility and expansion coefficient of a gas change at different temperatures, which affects the stability of the pump's output pressure. Additionally, differences in pipeline characteristics, such as pipeline length, inner diameter, and degree of curvature, also influence the flow of the sheath fluid.

[0042] In summary, existing technologies cannot solve the problem of consistent flow velocity of the sheath fluid in the flow chamber caused by changes in fluid density and viscosity at different temperatures and differences in pipeline characteristics.

[0043] In view of this, please refer to Figure 1 The flow cytometer fluidization system provided in the embodiments of this utility model can solve this problem, and will be described in detail below.

[0044] An embodiment of this utility model provides a fluid circuit system for a flow cytometer, comprising:

[0045] The inlet pipeline includes a sheath fluid tank 100, an inlet diaphragm pump 101, a damper 102, and a sheath fluid reservoir 103. The sheath fluid tank 100, the inlet diaphragm pump 101, the damper 102, and the sheath fluid reservoir 103 are connected in sequence. The sheath fluid reservoir 103 is provided with a sheath fluid vent 106. A lower liquid level sensor 104 is installed in the sheath fluid reservoir 103. The signal change generated by the lower liquid level sensor 104 when detecting the liquid level is used to control the flow rate of the inlet diaphragm pump 101.

[0046] A positive pressure liquid supply pipeline, which includes an air filter 201, an air pump 202 and a proportional valve 203, wherein the sheath liquid pool 103, the proportional valve 203, the air pump 202 and the air filter 201 are connected in sequence;

[0047] The analysis pipeline includes a liquid filter 300, a membrane contactor 301, a flow sensor 302, and a flow chamber 304. The sheath fluid pool 103, the liquid filter 300, the membrane contactor 301, and the flow chamber 304 are connected in sequence. The flow sensor 302 is located on the channel connecting the membrane contactor 301 and the flow chamber 304.

[0048] Based on the sheath fluid flow rate monitored by the flow sensor 302, the sheath fluid flow rate is adjusted by regulating the opening of the proportional valve 203.

[0049] The sheath fluid in the sheath fluid tank 100 passes through the inlet diaphragm pump 101 and, after most of the fluctuations are eliminated by the damper 102, enters the sheath fluid pool 103. The air pump 202 pumps the sheath fluid in the sheath fluid pool 103 into the flow chamber 304. The flow rate of the inlet diaphragm pump 101 is adjusted by the lower liquid level sensor 104 installed in the sheath fluid pool 103 to ensure a constant liquid level in the sheath fluid pool 103. Overload pressure is released through the sheath fluid vent 106 on the sheath fluid pool 103 to maintain stable pressure of the sheath fluid in the sheath fluid pool 103.

[0050] In existing technologies, whether it's a diaphragm pump or a peristaltic pump with a damper for fluid supply, or a pneumatic pump pressurizing and sealing the sheath fluid tank for fluid supply, there is a lack of means to detect the sheath fluid flow rate in real time and accurately. This embodiment introduces the flow sensor 302, which can continuously and accurately monitor the sheath fluid flow rate flowing into the flow chamber 304. Based on the sheath fluid flow rate, the opening of the proportional valve 203 is adjusted to adjust the pressure output by the pneumatic pump 202 to the sheath fluid tank 103, ultimately achieving precise adjustment of the sheath fluid flow rate. This reduces sheath fluid fluctuations and periodic changes in flow rate in the flow chamber 304, and ensures the consistency of the sheath fluid flow rate in the flow chamber 304 under different temperatures, variations in fluid density and viscosity, and differences in pipeline characteristics.

[0051] Adjacent components can be connected through pipes or other channels. For example, the sheath fluid tank 100 and the inlet diaphragm pump 101 are connected through pipes.

[0052] like Figure 1 As shown, in the liquid inlet pipeline, the sheath liquid tank 100, the liquid inlet diaphragm pump 101, the damper 102 and the sheath liquid pool 103 are connected in sequence.

[0053] The sheath fluid tank 100 serves as a storage container for the sheath fluid.

[0054] The inlet diaphragm pump 101 is used to transport the sheath fluid from the sheath fluid tank 100 to the subsequent pipeline. The inlet diaphragm pump 101 has the characteristics of strong self-priming ability and adjustable flow rate. It can adjust the speed of the inlet diaphragm pump 101 according to the triggering of the lower liquid level sensor 104 to ensure that the liquid level in the sheath fluid pool 103 is always maintained at the detection height of the lower liquid level sensor 104.

[0055] The damper 102 is installed after the inlet diaphragm pump 101 to absorb the pressure pulsation generated during the inlet process, making the sheath fluid delivery more stable.

[0056] The sheath fluid pool 103 is a temporary storage container for sheath fluid. The top of the sheath fluid pool 103 is provided with a sheath fluid vent 106 to prevent the pressure inside the sheath fluid pool 103 from becoming too high.

[0057] refer to Figure 1 An upper liquid level sensor 105 is installed inside the sheath fluid pool 103, located between the sheath fluid vent 106 and the lower liquid level sensor 104. The upper liquid level sensor 105 monitors abnormal sheath fluid levels in the sheath fluid pool 103 to prevent excessive sheath fluid from being discharged through the vent 106. When the upper liquid level sensor 105 detects that the sheath fluid level exceeds its installation position, it can notify the operator via an alarm or other means.

[0058] As described above, the lower liquid level sensor 104 can clearly define the liquid level height, and the liquid surface is always at the detection height of the lower liquid level sensor 104. The upper liquid level sensor 105 only serves a protective function to prevent damage to the lower liquid level sensor 104 from causing abnormal liquid level height and thus allowing the sheath fluid to be discharged from the vent 106. The upper liquid level sensor 105 and the lower liquid level sensor 104 can be photoelectric liquid level sensors.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, in the positive pressure liquid supply pipe, the sheath liquid pool 103, the proportional valve 203, the air pump 202 and the air filter 201 are connected in sequence.

[0060] The air filter 201 can filter the gas entering the air pump 202, providing pure gas to the sheath fluid pool 103 and ensuring the quality of the sheath fluid.

[0061] The air pump 202 draws in and compresses the gas filtered by the air filter 201 to act on the sheath fluid in the sheath fluid pool 103, providing power for the flow of the sheath fluid, so that the sheath fluid in the sheath fluid pool 103 is forced out of the sheath fluid pool 103 and transported into the flow chamber 304.

[0062] The proportional valve 203 is installed in the channel between the air pump 202 and the sheath fluid pool 103, and is used to precisely regulate the pressure output by the air pump 202 to the sheath fluid pool 103. The proportional valve 203 adjusts its opening in real time based on the sheath fluid flow rate monitored by the flow sensor 302 on the analysis pipeline, thereby precisely controlling the amount of filtered gas entering the sheath fluid pool 103 and achieving fine regulation of the sheath fluid flow rate.

[0063] Through the coordinated operation of the air pump 202, proportional valve 203, and flow sensor 302, the system can adjust the opening of the proportional valve 203 and the output parameters of the air pump 202 in real time based on the sheath fluid flow rate signal fed back by the flow sensor 302, adapting to changes in fluid characteristics. For example, when an increase in temperature leads to a decrease in fluid viscosity, the system can automatically reduce the opening of the proportional valve 203 and lower the output pressure of the air pump 202, keeping the sheath fluid flow rate stable. It can also overcome differences in pipeline resistance, ensuring that the sheath fluid flows at a stable rate in different pipelines, improving the system's adaptability and versatility. For example, when the pipeline resistance in the system suddenly increases, the flow sensor 302 will detect the decrease in sheath fluid flow rate and feed the signal back to the control system. The control system will immediately increase the opening of the proportional valve 203 and increase the output pressure of the air pump 202 to compensate for the increase in pipeline resistance, thereby reducing pressure fluctuations and sheath fluid fluctuations, and improving the system's stability and reliability. Therefore, this embodiment adopts a proportional valve 203, a flow sensor 302, etc., which can meet the consistency of the sheath fluid flow rate in the flow chamber 304 under different temperatures, changes in fluid density and viscosity, and differences in pipeline characteristics.

[0064] refer to Figure 1 The positive pressure supply pipeline also includes a pressure sensor 200, which is internally connected to the sheath fluid reservoir 103. By setting the upper and lower limits of the air pressure monitored by the pressure sensor 200, fault detection can be achieved for several key components such as the sheath fluid vent 106, the air pump 202, and the proportional valve 203. When the system is running, the pressure sensor 200 monitors the pressure inside the sheath fluid reservoir 103 in real time. If the pressure exceeds the set upper limit, it may mean that the sheath fluid vent 106 is blocked, preventing excess air from being discharged in time; or that the air pump 202 outputs too high a pressure, causing the proportional valve 203 to malfunction and fail to effectively control the amount of gas entering the sheath fluid reservoir 103.

[0065] Continue to refer to Figure 1 The sheath fluid vent 106, the proportional valve 203, and the pressure sensor 200 are respectively connected above the sheath fluid pool 103.

[0066] like Figure 1 As shown, in the analysis pipeline, the sheath fluid pool 103, liquid filter 300, membrane contactor 301 and flow chamber 304 are connected in sequence.

[0067] The sheath fluid in the sheath fluid pool 103 is first filtered by the liquid filter 300, which effectively removes various impurities from the sheath fluid and ensures its purity. Subsequently, the sheath fluid passes through the membrane contactor 301 to separate air bubbles, reducing the interference of these factors on the analysis system and making the flow of the sheath fluid in the flow chamber 304 more stable.

[0068] refer to Figure 1 The analytical pipeline also includes an analytical three-way valve 303, the common end of which is connected to the flow chamber 304, the normally closed end of which is connected to the membrane contactor 301, and the normally open end of which is connected to the fourth channel of the eight-channel syringe pump 401.

[0069] The analytical three-way valve 303 can be a three-way solenoid valve, which includes a normally open terminal, a common terminal, and a normally closed terminal. When the three-way solenoid valve is not open, the normally open terminal is connected to the common terminal, and the normally closed terminal is in a closed state. When the three-way solenoid valve is open, the normally closed terminal is connected to the common terminal, and the normally open terminal is in a closed state. Therefore, after the analytical three-way valve 303 is opened, the flow chamber 304 and the membrane contactor 301 are connected.

[0070] Continue to refer to Figure 1 The flow sensor 302 is disposed in the channel between the membrane contactor 301 and the normally closed end of the analytical three-way valve 303. That is, the flow sensor 302 is used to monitor the flow rate of the sheath fluid entering the flow chamber 304.

[0071] like Figure 1 As shown, the flow cytometer's liquid path system also includes a sample injection line, which includes a sampling needle 400, an eight-channel syringe pump 401, a bubble detection sensor 402, and a three-way valve 403. The normally closed end of the three-way valve 403 is connected to the flow chamber 304. The bubble detection sensor 402 is installed on the channel connecting the three-way valve 403 and the flow chamber 304. The normally open end of the three-way valve 403 is connected to the sampling needle 400. The common end of the three-way valve 403 is connected to channel 7 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401.

[0072] The eight-channel syringe pump 401 has eight independent channels, each of which can be connected to a corresponding tubing and sample container. The internal syringe of the eight-channel syringe pump 401 can select channels according to actual needs, thus flexibly switching between different channels to perform sample aspiration, etc. For example, switching to channel 7 indicates that this channel has been selected for sample aspiration, that is, the internal syringe aspirates the sample through channel 7.

[0073] The three-way injection valve 403 is also a three-way solenoid valve. When the three-way injection valve 403 is not open, the sampling needle 400 is connected to channel 7 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401. When the three-way injection valve 403 is open, the flow chamber 304 is connected to channel 7 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401.

[0074] When the system is working, the three-way valve 403 is in the closed state. At this time, the sampling needle 400 is connected to the 7th channel of the eight-channel injection pump 401. Therefore, the sample passes through the sampling needle 400 and the three-way valve 403 in sequence until it enters the pipeline of the 7th channel of the eight-channel injection pump 401, thus completing the sample aspiration process.

[0075] After the sample is aspirated, the three-way injection valve 403 is opened to connect the flow chamber 304 with channel 7 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401. At this time, the sample flows from the normally closed end of the three-way injection valve 403 to the flow chamber 304.

[0076] refer to Figure 1 A bubble detection sensor 402 is installed on the channel connecting the sample injection three-way valve 403 and the flow chamber 304. As the sample flows from the injection three-way valve 403 to the flow chamber 304, it passes through the bubble detection sensor 402, which detects the presence of bubbles in the sample in real time. If bubbles are detected, the system will promptly issue an alarm or take appropriate measures, such as stopping the injection or re-absorbing the sample. The presence of bubbles can interfere with sample flow and detection signals, leading to deviations in the analytical results.

[0077] In summary, the eight-channel syringe pump 401 has eight independent channels, allowing for flexible switching between different channels to perform sample aspiration operations according to actual needs. Through the design of the injection three-way valve 403, when closed, the sampling needle 400 is connected to channel 7 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401, allowing the sample to smoothly flow from the sampling needle 400 through the injection three-way valve 403 into the channel 7 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401, completing the sample aspiration process. After sample aspiration is complete, the injection three-way valve 403 is opened, connecting the flow chamber 304 to channel 7 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401, allowing the sample to flow stably from the normally closed end of the injection three-way valve 403 to the flow chamber 304. This stable and reliable delivery method ensures the integrity and continuity of the sample throughout the entire injection process, providing a solid foundation for subsequent detection and analysis.

[0078] like Figure 1 As shown, the fluid system of the flow cytometer also includes a cleaning pipeline, which includes a cleaning solution tank 500, a shutdown solution tank 501, and a cleaning pool 502. The cleaning solution tank 500 is connected to channel 5 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401, the shutdown solution tank 501 is connected to channel 8 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401, and the cleaning pool 502 is connected to channel 6 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401. The cleaning pool 502 is fitted onto the outer wall of the sampling needle 400.

[0079] The cleaning fluid tank 500 serves as a storage container for the cleaning fluid. After the cleaning fluid tank 500 is connected to channel 5 of the eight-channel injection pump 401, the syringe inside the eight-channel injection pump 401 draws the cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid tank 500 into the injection pump.

[0080] After the cleaning fluid is drawn in, the eight-channel injection pump 401 switches to channel 4. Since channel 4 is connected to the normally open end of the analytical three-way valve 303, the cleaning fluid flows from the sheath fluid inlet channel 305 into the flow chamber 304 to clean it when the analytical three-way valve 303 is not open.

[0081] The syringe pump continues to draw up the cleaning solution, and then the eight-channel syringe pump 401 switches to channel 6, which is connected to the cleaning tank 502. When the cleaning solution flows through the cleaning tank 502, it rinses the outer wall of the sampling needle 400.

[0082] The syringe pump draws up the cleaning solution again, and then the eight-channel syringe pump 401 switches to channel 7. Since channel 7 is connected to the common end of the injection three-way valve 403, when the injection three-way valve 403 is not open, the cleaning solution directly enters the sampling needle 400 to clean the inner wall of the sampling needle 400.

[0083] The syringe pump continues to draw the cleaning solution, keeping channel 7 open, and simultaneously opening the three-way injection valve 403 so that channel 7 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401 is connected to the flow chamber 304. At this time, the cleaning solution flows from the sample injection channel 404 into the flow chamber 304 to clean the sample injection channel and also rinse the flow chamber 304 again.

[0084] By switching channel 8 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401, the shutdown fluid can be introduced into the instrument for cleaning. The cleaning method is the same as that used for cleaning with cleaning fluid, and will not be described in detail here.

[0085] In summary, the cleaning tubing can comprehensively clean multiple key components of the flow cytometer. By switching between different channels of the eight-channel syringe pump 401, the inner and outer walls of the flow chamber 304, the sampling needle 400, and the sample injection channel 404 are cleaned. Furthermore, the cleaning process is rationally designed, enabling rapid and efficient completion of the cleaning task. Regular and effective cleaning helps maintain the stable performance of the flow cytometer.

[0086] like Figure 1As shown, the flow cytometer's fluid system also includes a waste liquid pipeline, which comprises a waste liquid tank 600, a waste liquid diaphragm pump 601, a drain trough 602, a waste liquid inlet three-way valve 603, a relay waste liquid tank 604, a waste liquid outlet three-way valve 607, and a waste liquid two-way valve 608. The drain trough 602 is located directly below the sampling needle 400. The drain trough 602 is connected to the normally closed end of the waste liquid inlet three-way valve 603, and the normally open end of the waste liquid inlet three-way valve 603 is connected to the lower part of the relay waste liquid tank 604. The waste liquid tank 604 is connected separately to channel 3 of the eight-channel injection pump 401 and the flow chamber 304. The common end of the waste liquid inlet three-way valve 603 is connected to the normally open end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve 607. The normally closed end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve 607 is connected to the exhaust port of the membrane contactor 301. The common end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve 607 is connected to the waste liquid tank 600. The waste liquid diaphragm pump 601 is installed on the channel connecting the common end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve 607 and the waste liquid tank 600.

[0087] The waste liquid pipeline also includes a waste liquid two-way valve 608, one end of which is connected to the relay waste liquid tank 604, and the other end of which is connected to the waste liquid outlet of the liquid filter 300.

[0088] The waste liquid generated in the flow chamber 304 flows directly into the relay waste liquid tank 604. After the waste liquid two-way valve 608 is opened, the waste liquid filtered by the liquid filter 300 also flows into the relay waste liquid tank 604. When the eight-channel injection pump 401 is switched to channel 3, the liquid in the eight-channel injection pump 401 is also discharged into the relay waste liquid tank 604.

[0089] The relay waste liquid tank 604 is provided with a vent 605, through which excess gas in the relay waste liquid tank 604 is discharged. A waste liquid level sensor 606 is installed inside the relay waste liquid tank 604, located below the vent 605, which also prevents liquid in the relay waste liquid tank 604 from overflowing from the vent 605.

[0090] The waste liquid diaphragm pump 601 is turned on periodically, and the waste liquid in the relay waste liquid tank 604 will flow into the waste liquid tank 600 through the corresponding channel under the action of the waste liquid diaphragm pump 601.

[0091] When the waste liquid inlet three-way valve 603 is opened, the drain tank 602 is connected to the normally open end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve 607. When the waste liquid outlet three-way valve 607 is not opened, the waste liquid generated in the drain tank 602 for cleaning the inner and outer walls of the sampling needle 400 will be discharged into the waste liquid tank 600 by the waste liquid diaphragm pump 601.

[0092] When the waste liquid outlet three-way valve 607 is opened, the exhaust port of the membrane contactor 301 is connected to the waste liquid tank 600, and the air bubbles separated by the membrane contactor 301 will be discharged into the waste liquid tank 600 by the waste liquid diaphragm pump 601.

[0093] In summary, the waste liquid pipeline can simultaneously collect waste liquid from multiple different sources, including the flow chamber 304, the liquid filter 300, and channel 3 of the eight-channel syringe pump 401. Through the combined use of the waste liquid inlet three-way valve 603, the waste liquid outlet three-way valve 607, and the waste liquid two-way valve 608, precise discharge control of waste liquid from different sources is achieved.

[0094] It should be noted that the components and their functions in this embodiment are all within the scope of the prior art. This embodiment, through the arrangement of components and connections, especially the coordination of the flow sensor 302 and the proportional valve 203, satisfies the consistency of the sheath fluid flow rate in the flow chamber 304 under different temperatures, changes in fluid density and viscosity, and differences in pipeline characteristics.

[0095] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this utility model, but the protection scope of this utility model is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model. Therefore, the protection scope of this utility model should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A fluid circuit system for a flow cytometer, characterized in that, include: The inlet pipeline includes a sheath fluid tank (100), an inlet diaphragm pump (101), a damper (102), and a sheath fluid reservoir (103). The sheath fluid tank (100), the inlet diaphragm pump (101), the damper (102), and the sheath fluid reservoir (103) are connected in sequence. The sheath fluid reservoir (103) is provided with a sheath fluid vent hole (106). A lower liquid level sensor (104) is installed in the sheath fluid reservoir (103). The signal change generated by the lower liquid level sensor (104) when detecting the liquid level is used to control the flow rate of the inlet diaphragm pump (101). A positive pressure liquid supply pipeline, the positive pressure liquid supply pipeline includes an air filter (201), an air pump (202) and a proportional valve (203), the sheath liquid pool (103), the proportional valve (203), the air pump (202) and the air filter (201) are connected in sequence; An analytical pipeline, comprising a liquid filter (300), a membrane contactor (301), a flow sensor (302), and a flow chamber (304), wherein the sheath fluid reservoir (103), the liquid filter (300), the membrane contactor (301), and the flow chamber (304) are connected in sequence, and the flow sensor (302) is located on the channel connecting the membrane contactor (301) and the flow chamber (304); Based on the sheath fluid flow rate monitored by the flow sensor (302), the sheath fluid flow rate is adjusted by regulating the opening of the proportional valve (203).

2. The fluidization system of the flow cytometer as described in claim 1, characterized in that, An upper liquid level sensor (105) is provided in the sheath fluid pool (103), and the upper liquid level sensor (105) is located between the sheath fluid vent (106) and the lower liquid level sensor (104).

3. The fluid circuit system of the flow cytometer as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The positive pressure liquid supply pipeline also includes a pressure sensor (200), which is connected to the interior of the sheath liquid pool (103).

4. The fluid circuit system of the flow cytometer as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a sample injection line, which includes a sampling needle (400), an eight-channel syringe pump (401), a bubble detection sensor (402), and a three-way valve (403). The normally closed end of the three-way valve (403) is connected to the flow chamber (304). The bubble detection sensor (402) is installed on the channel connecting the three-way valve (403) and the flow chamber (304). The normally open end of the three-way valve (403) is connected to the sampling needle (400). The common end of the three-way valve (403) is connected to channel 7 of the eight-channel syringe pump (401).

5. The fluid circuit system of the flow cytometer as described in claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a cleaning pipeline, which includes a cleaning fluid tank (500), a shutdown fluid tank (501), and a cleaning pool (502). The cleaning fluid tank (500) is connected to channel 5 of the eight-channel injection pump (401), the shutdown fluid tank (501) is connected to channel 8 of the eight-channel injection pump (401), and the cleaning pool (502) is connected to channel 6 of the eight-channel injection pump (401). The cleaning pool (502) is fitted onto the outer wall of the sampling needle (400).

6. The fluid circuit system of the flow cytometer as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The analytical pipeline also includes an analytical three-way valve (303), the common end of which is connected to the flow chamber (304), the normally open end of which is connected to the fourth channel of the eight-channel injection pump (401), and the normally closed end of which is connected to the membrane contactor (301).

7. The fluid circuit system of the flow cytometer as described in claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a waste liquid pipeline, which includes a waste liquid tank (600), a waste liquid diaphragm pump (601), a drain tank (602), a waste liquid inlet three-way valve (603), a relay waste liquid tank (604), a waste liquid outlet three-way valve (607), and a waste liquid two-way valve (608). The drain tank (602) is located directly below the sampling needle (400). The drain tank (602) is connected to the normally closed end of the waste liquid inlet three-way valve (603). The normally open end of the waste liquid inlet three-way valve (603) is connected to the bottom of the relay waste liquid tank (604). 04) The waste liquid inlet three-way valve (603) is connected to the No. 3 channel of the eight-channel injection pump (401) and the flow chamber (304) respectively. The common end of the waste liquid inlet three-way valve (603) is connected to the normally open end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve (607). The normally closed end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve (607) is connected to the exhaust port of the membrane contactor (301). The common end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve (607) is connected to the waste liquid tank (600). The waste liquid diaphragm pump (601) is provided on the channel where the common end of the waste liquid outlet three-way valve (607) is connected to the waste liquid tank (600).

8. The fluid circuit system of the flow cytometer as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The sample inlet three-way valve (403), waste liquid inlet three-way valve (603), and waste liquid outlet three-way valve (607) are all three-way solenoid valves. Each three-way solenoid valve includes a normally open end, a common end, and a normally closed end. When the three-way solenoid valve is not open, the normally open end is connected to the common end, and the normally closed end is in a sealed state. When the three-way solenoid valve is open, the normally closed end is connected to the common end, and the normally open end is in a sealed state.

9. The fluid circuit system of the flow cytometer as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The relay waste liquid tank (604) is provided with an exhaust port (605); The relay waste liquid tank (604) is equipped with a waste liquid level sensor (606), which is located below the vent (605).

10. The fluid circuit system of the flow cytometer as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The waste liquid pipeline also includes a waste liquid two-way valve (608), one end of which is connected to the relay waste liquid tank (604), and the other end of which is connected to the waste liquid outlet of the liquid filter (300).

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