A detachable filter layer suitable for use in a centrifuge tube

Abstract

The utility model relates to a detachable filter layer suitable for centrifugal tube, it includes filter screen, annular support and operating handle, the filter screen with annular support bottom inner wall fixed connection, annular support with centrifugal tube body detachable fixed connection, operating handle set in one side of annular support top end, the utility model has the effect that prevents the loss of precipitation, accurate experimental result, efficient dismounting, promotes work efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of biomedical technology, and in particular to a removable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes. Background Technology

[0002] In the biomedical field, especially in latex production, centrifugation is a crucial method for achieving efficient separation of solid and liquid components. The precision of its operation directly impacts the reliability of experimental results and the stability of the production process. After processing samples in a centrifuge, the supernatant must be precisely poured out, while retaining the bottom precipitate is a core step in ensuring experimental accuracy and production efficiency.

[0003] Current techniques generally employ direct separation using conventional centrifuge tubes, followed by manual tilting of the tubes to empty the supernatant after centrifugation. However, this method has the following drawbacks: First, the lower layer of solid particles often leaks out unexpectedly when the supernatant is poured out, which not only causes experimental errors but can also lead to experimental failure in severe cases, greatly affecting work efficiency. In addition, the filter layer of traditional centrifuge tubes is mostly a fixed structure that cannot be disassembled for cleaning. Long-term use can easily lead to cross-contamination due to sample residue, and the filter material has insufficient corrosion resistance, making it difficult to adapt to various chemical environments, further limiting the accuracy and repeatability of the experiment. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of the shortcomings of the existing technology, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a detachable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes, which has the effects of preventing sediment loss, accurate experimental results, efficient disassembly and assembly, and improving work efficiency.

[0005] The above-mentioned utility model objective is achieved through the following technical solution:

[0006] A removable filter layer for centrifuge tubes includes a filter screen, a ring support, and an operating handle.

[0007] The filter screen is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the bottom of the annular bracket;

[0008] The annular support is detachably and fixedly connected to the centrifuge tube body;

[0009] The operating handle is located on one side of the top of the annular bracket, providing a point of leverage for disassembly operations.

[0010] Through the above technical solution, the integrated design of the filter screen, the ring support, and the operating handle enables the modular and detachable function of the filter layer in the centrifuge tube. The filter screen is fixed to the inner wall of the bottom of the ring support, ensuring the filtration function. At the same time, the detachable connection between the ring support and the centrifuge tube body facilitates the replacement and cleaning of the filter layer, meeting the needs of repeated use. The setting of the operating handle provides a leverage point for disassembly operations, improves the user experience, and significantly improves the efficiency of filter layer disassembly and assembly and the flexibility of the experimental process.

[0011] As a further technical solution of this utility model: the filter screen adopts a mesh structure made of nylon material.

[0012] The above technical solution limits the use of a nylon mesh structure for the filter screen. By utilizing the acid and alkali resistance and corrosion resistance of nylon, the filter layer can be reused in various chemical environments, thus expanding the applicability of the centrifuge tube. The mesh structure provides a uniform pore size, ensuring filtration accuracy while optimizing fluid throughput and reducing centrifugation time.

[0013] As a further technical solution of this utility model: the operating handle protrudes radially outward along the outer wall of the annular support, and the top plane of the operating handle is lower than the lower end plane of the centrifuge tube cap.

[0014] The above technical solution limits the operating handle to protrude radially outward along the outer wall of the annular support, and the top plane is lower than the bottom plane of the centrifuge tube cap. This ensures that users can easily remove the filter layer through the operating handle, while also preventing the operating handle from interfering with the closing of the centrifuge tube cap. This ensures that the position of the filter layer is stable during centrifugation and prevents sample leakage or contamination.

[0015] As a further technical solution of this utility model: the outer wall of the annular bracket is provided with an annular flange, the annular flange is continuously distributed along the circumferential direction of the annular bracket and protrudes radially outward;

[0016] The outer diameter of the annular support is smaller than the inner diameter of the centrifuge tube, forming a clearance fit;

[0017] The outer diameter of the annular flange is larger than the inner diameter of the centrifuge tube, forming an interference fit.

[0018] Through the above technical solution, the clearance fit between the annular support and the inner wall of the centrifuge tube, and the interference fit between the annular flange (continuously distributed along the circumference and protruding radially outward) and the inner wall of the centrifuge tube, work synergistically. The clearance fit reduces the contact area and frictional resistance during filter layer insertion, enabling smooth installation and convenient disassembly, while also reducing component wear and extending service life. Furthermore, the elastic deformation of the annular flange generates reliable frictional force, forming a uniform seal to ensure the filter layer does not shift or loosen during high-speed centrifugation, preventing sediment leakage and ensuring uniform liquid distribution on the filter screen surface to reduce the risk of breakage. This segmented design of "clearance fit + interference fit" avoids the installation difficulties and disassembly damage associated with a simple interference fit, while also solving the centrifugation stability problem of a simple clearance fit. By dispersing stress to protect the centrifuge tube, it is compatible with centrifuge tubes of various materials, adapting to high-speed centrifugation and automated operation scenarios. Ultimately, it meets the dual requirements of "easy installation and disassembly" and "stable high-speed centrifugation" for the filter layer, improving experimental efficiency.

[0019] As a further technical solution of this utility model: when the detachable filter layer is installed on the centrifuge tube, the filter screen divides the centrifuge tube into an upper cavity and a lower cavity. The lower cavity is formed by the bottom surface of the filter screen, the inner bottom surface of the centrifuge tube, and the side wall of the centrifuge tube, and is used to contain sediment.

[0020] Through the above technical solution, the filter screen divides the tube body into an upper chamber and a lower chamber. The lower chamber is formed by the bottom surface of the filter screen, the inner bottom surface of the tube body, and the side walls, creating a sediment-containing space. This spatial functional zoning achieves physical isolation between the supernatant and the sediment, avoiding cross-contamination during pouring. The lower chamber structure design reduces fluid disturbance and, combined with the characteristics of the filter screen material, efficiently traps sediment. The enclosed sedimentation space supports in-situ rinsing, reducing sample loss. The fixed structure of the ring support ensures stable installation of the filter screen, and, in conjunction with the material, achieves efficient sediment blocking and reuse, improving the accuracy and convenience of centrifugation operations.

[0021] In summary, this utility model has at least one of the following beneficial technical effects:

[0022] 1. This utility model discloses a detachable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes. Through the integrated design of filter screen, ring support and operating handle, as well as the fixed connection between filter screen and ring support, the detachable connection between ring support and centrifuge tube body, and the structure of operating handle set on one side of the top of ring support, the modular and detachable function of filter layer in centrifuge tube is realized, which facilitates the replacement and cleaning of filter layer. At the same time, the operating handle provides a force point for disassembly, improving disassembly and assembly efficiency and experimental process flexibility.

[0023] 2. This utility model discloses a detachable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes. It uses a mesh structure made of nylon as the filter screen. By utilizing the acid and alkali corrosion resistance of nylon and the uniform pore size design of the mesh structure, the filter layer can be reused in various chemical environments, expanding the application range of centrifuge tubes, while optimizing fluid throughput and reducing centrifugation time.

[0024] 3. This utility model discloses a detachable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes. By setting an annular flange continuously distributed along the circumference on the outer wall of the annular support, and making the annular support body and the inner wall of the centrifuge tube clearance fit, and the annular flange and the inner wall interference fit, the filter layer can be smoothly inserted into the centrifuge tube while being reliably fixed by the friction force generated by the elastic deformation of the flange, thus taking into account both the convenience of installation and the stability of disassembly. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a front view of a removable filter layer for centrifuge tubes after it has been installed in a centrifuge tube, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a top view of a removable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a side view of a removable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Reference numerals: 1. Filter screen; 2. Annular support; 3. Operating handle; 4. Centrifuge tube body; 5. Centrifuge tube cap; 6. Annular flange; 7. Upper chamber; 8. Lower chamber. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0030] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "outer," "top / bottom," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application 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 application. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0031] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "equipped with," "sleeved / connected," "connected," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0032] Example 1:

[0033] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 This utility model discloses a detachable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes, including a filter screen 1, an annular support 2, and an operating handle 3. The filter screen 1 is welded and fixedly connected to the bottom inner wall of the annular support 2 to form a stable filter structure; the outer wall of the annular support 2 is provided with an annular flange 6, which is made integrally with the annular support 2 by injection molding, and the annular flange 6 is continuously distributed along the circumference of the annular support 2 and protrudes radially outward.

[0034] To achieve a detachable and stable connection between the filter layer and the centrifuge tube 4, the annular support 2 and the centrifuge tube 4 employ a mating design: the main body of the annular support 2 and the inner wall of the centrifuge tube 4 are in a clearance fit (e.g., clearance 0.1-0.3mm), reducing frictional resistance during filter layer insertion (e.g., insertion force ≤15N) and effectively preventing wear between the annular support 2 and the inner wall of the centrifuge tube 4; the annular flange 6 protrudes radially outward along the support, with its outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the centrifuge tube 4 (interference allowance 0.05-0.1mm), generating a radial frictional force ≥5N through elastic deformation during insertion, ensuring no displacement of the filter layer under high-speed centrifugation at 10000rpm. This differentiated mating method balances installation efficiency (e.g., single disassembly / assembly time <5 seconds) and structural reliability, enabling the filter layer to effectively resist the shearing force generated by high-speed centrifugation while ensuring convenient operation.

[0035] The main body of the annular support 2 is clearance-fitted with the inner wall of the centrifuge tube 4, with the clearance controlled at 0.1-0.3mm. This design reduces the contact area between the support body and the inner wall of the tube when the filter layer is inserted into the centrifuge tube 4, thus avoiding wear of the support or the inner wall of the tube due to excessive friction. The annular flange 6 is interference-fitted with the inner wall of the centrifuge tube 4, with the interference set at 0.05-0.1mm. The elastic deformation generated by the annular flange 6 under force can generate a continuous frictional force of ≥5N. This fit ensures that the filter layer can be smoothly inserted into the centrifuge tube 4 and that it does not shift at a centrifugation speed of 10,000 rpm, achieving a dual guarantee of ease of installation and structural stability during centrifugation.

[0036] Among them, the material selection of the annular support 2 and the annular flange 6 takes into account both elasticity and chemical stability: Nylon material is selected for general scenarios, which can withstand compression deformation, tolerate pH 2-14 and reagents such as ethanol, and support high-temperature sterilization at 121℃; thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is preferred for scenarios with frequent disassembly and assembly, which has excellent elasticity, is easy to insert and remove, and is suitable for low-temperature environments.

[0037] Reference Figure 2 Filter 1 uses a nylon mesh structure, whose chemical properties of acid and alkali resistance (pH 2-14 stable) and corrosion resistance (resistant to ethanol, acetone, etc.) ensure the structural integrity of the filter layer during repeated use in biochemical experiments such as DNA extraction. The mesh structure of filter 1 is formed with uniform pore size through a precision weaving process. The pore size of filter 1 is selected according to the particle size of the target precipitate. For example, when separating animal cells (diameter 10-30μm), a 10μm pore size is selected, which can retain cell precipitate and allow supernatant to pass through; when separating bacteria (diameter 0.5-5μm), a 5μm pore size is selected to ensure that bacterial precipitate is effectively retained. The pore size deviation is controlled within ±1μm to ensure the consistency of filtration accuracy and take into account fluid efficiency. During centrifugation, under centrifugal force, solid particles with higher density and larger particle size than the pore size of filter screen 1 slide along the surface of filter screen 1 and settle directionally through the mesh of filter screen 1 into the lower cavity 8 formed by the bottom surface of filter screen 1, the inner bottom surface of the tube body, and the side walls. This prevents particles from accumulating on the surface of filter screen 1 and forming a filter cake layer, thereby improving centrifugation efficiency. When the supernatant is poured out after centrifugation, filter screen 1 is kept horizontally fixed by the interference fit between the annular flange 6 on the outer wall of the annular support 2 and the inner wall of the centrifuge tube body 4. Its pore size screening characteristics and the spatial design of the lower cavity 8 work synergistically—precipitated particles with a particle size larger than the mesh cannot reverse through the filter screen and return to the upper cavity 7. At the same time, the height of the lower cavity 8 keeps the sediment layer at a safe distance from the liquid surface, ensuring that the fluid flows out in a laminar flow state (Re≤2000), reducing the impact of eddies on the sediment layer, and achieving efficient retention of the target sediment. This two-way control mechanism, which guides particles to settle through the mesh during centrifugation and filters and blocks particles during pouring, breaks through the limitations of traditional filters that rely solely on surface interception, taking into account both separation efficiency and sediment integrity.

[0038] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 3 The operating handle 3 is located on one side of the top of the annular bracket 2, protruding radially outward along the outer wall, and its top plane is lower than the lower plane of the centrifuge tube cap 5, to avoid interference when the centrifuge tube cap 5 is closed, while providing a point of leverage for disassembly. In addition, the outer surface of the operating handle 3 is provided with anti-slip texture to increase friction and improve the ease of disassembly.

[0039] Reference Figure 1When the removable filter layer is installed into the centrifuge tube 4, the annular support 2, through the interference fit between the outer annular flange 6 and the inner wall of the centrifuge tube 4, makes the filter screen 1 horizontally divide the centrifuge tube 4 into an independent upper cavity 7 and a lower cavity 8. The lower chamber 8 is enclosed by the bottom surface of the filter screen 1, the inner bottom surface of the centrifuge tube 4, and the side walls. Its height is 1 / 4 to 1 / 2 (preferably 1 / 3 to 1 / 2) of the effective height of the centrifuge tube. This spatial design optimizes the centrifugation effect in three aspects: First, the upper chamber 7 is specifically used to store the supernatant after centrifugation, and the lower chamber 8 serves as an independent sedimentation zone. The physical separation of the filter screen 1 prevents sediment from being mixed in with the fluid disturbance when the supernatant is poured. Second, the height design of the lower chamber 8 keeps the sediment layer 5-10 mm away from the liquid surface after pouring, controlling the fluid Reynolds number within the laminar flow range (Re≤2000), reducing the impact of eddies on the sediment layer. Combined with the nylon mesh structure of the filter screen 1, which intercepts particles, the sediment retention rate is further improved. Third, the closed lower chamber 8 allows for the addition of rinsing solution directly from above the filter screen 1. The sediment settles naturally to the bottom of the tube under gravity, and the cleaning operation can be completed without transferring the sample, which significantly reduces sample loss caused by transfer compared to traditional methods.

[0040] This utility model discloses a working process for a removable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes:

[0041] Installation process: First, align the annular support 2 of the filter layer with the opening of the centrifuge tube 4. Since the outer diameter of the annular support 2 is not greater than the inner diameter of the centrifuge tube 4, it can be smoothly inserted into the middle of the centrifuge tube 4. During insertion, the annular flange 6 undergoes elastic deformation due to its outer diameter being greater than the inner diameter of the centrifuge tube 4. After insertion, the annular flange 6 relies on the material's restoring force to fit tightly against the inner wall of the tube, achieving an interference fit fixation. Then, cover the centrifuge tube with the cap 5. The top plane of the operating handle 3 is lower than the bottom plane of the centrifuge tube cap 5 to ensure a tight fit and no interference with the operating handle 3.

[0042] Centrifugation: Under centrifugal force, the liquid and small particles pass through the filter 1 into the upper chamber 7, while large particles settle through the mesh into the lower chamber 8 (the height of which is 1 / 4 to 1 / 2 of the effective height of the centrifuge tube 4), thus avoiding the formation of a filter cake layer on the surface of the filter 1 and improving the fluid throughput efficiency.

[0043] Supernatant pouring: After centrifugation, open the centrifuge tube cap 5 and pour out the supernatant. At this time, the lower sediment is blocked by the filter screen 1 in the space between the bottom of the filter screen 1 and the bottom of the centrifuge tube 4.

[0044] Precipitation washing: Then add rinsing solution from above filter 1 to wash off the precipitate attached to filter 1. The precipitate settles to the bottom of the tube under gravity, without the need to transfer the sample.

[0045] Disassembly and recycling: After the experiment, the filter layer is separated from the centrifuge tube body 4 by squeezing the operating handle 3 and applying force outward, using the elastic deformation of the annular flange 6. After removal, the filter layer can be cleaned or subjected to subsequent ultrasonic operations, so as to achieve reuse.

[0046] The implementation principle of this utility model is as follows: the filter layer can be easily disassembled and assembled through the clearance fit between the annular support 2 and the centrifuge tube body 4 and the interference fit of the annular flange 6; the ergonomic design of the operating handle 3 ensures stable operation; the material properties and fluid dynamics design of the nylon filter screen 1 improve separation efficiency; and the spatial partitioning of the lower chamber 8 prevents sediment accumulation. Through the systematic integration of the dimensions, materials, and layout of each component, sediment loss is effectively prevented, improving experimental accuracy and work efficiency.

[0047] The embodiments described herein are preferred embodiments of this utility model and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this utility model. Therefore, all equivalent changes made to the structure, shape, and principle of this utility model should be included within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A removable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes, characterized in that, Includes a filter screen (1), a ring-shaped support (2), and an operating handle (3). The filter screen (1) is fixedly connected to the bottom inner wall of the annular bracket (2); The annular support (2) is detachably and fixedly connected to the centrifuge tube (4); The operating handle (3) is located on one side of the top of the annular bracket (2) to provide a point of force for disassembly operation.

2. The removable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The filter (1) is made of nylon mesh structure.

3. A removable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The operating handle (3) protrudes radially outward along the outer wall of the annular support (2), and the top plane of the operating handle (3) is lower than the lower end plane of the centrifuge tube cap (5).

4. A removable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wall of the annular support (2) is provided with an annular flange (6), which is continuously distributed along the circumference of the annular support (2) and protrudes radially outward; the outer diameter of the annular support (2) is smaller than the inner diameter of the centrifuge tube (4), forming a clearance fit; the outer diameter of the annular flange (6) is larger than the inner diameter of the centrifuge tube (4), forming an interference fit.

5. A removable filter layer suitable for centrifuge tubes according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the detachable filter layer is installed on the centrifuge tube (4), the filter screen (1) divides the centrifuge tube (4) into an upper cavity (7) and a lower cavity (8). The lower cavity (8) is formed by the bottom surface of the filter screen (1), the inner bottom surface of the centrifuge tube (4), and the side wall of the centrifuge tube (4), and is used to contain sediment.

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