Particle separator

Abstract

To provide a particle separator in which a use amount of consumable supply required for introducing liquid into a channel of a channel device can be reduced.SOLUTION: A particle separator comprises: an arrangement part; an installation part; a supply part; a pressing part; a washing part; and a control part. A channel device comprises: a body; a first liquid supply part; and a second liquid supply part. The body includes a channel part and a first introduction hole and a second introduction hole communicated with the channel part. The supply part includes a nozzle part, a mechanism for moving the nozzle part, and a suction / discharge part for causing the nozzle to suck and discharge liquid. The suction / discharge part causes the nozzle to suck a first liquid from a first container on the arrangement part, and discharge the first liquid to a first space connected to the first introduction hole of the first liquid supply part. The suction / discharge part causes the nozzle to discharge a second liquid to a second space connected to the second introduction hole of the second liquid supply part. The pressing part causes a first pressing member to press a first movable member of the first liquid supply part and causes a second pressing member to press a second movable member of the second liquid supply part, in a state of installing the channel device on the installation part. The washing part is configured so that, in the washing tank, the nozzle is washed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a particle separator. [Background technology]

[0002] A technique is known in which a first liquid containing a plurality of particles of a plurality of types and a second liquid different from the first liquid are introduced into a flow path device to separate a plurality of particles of a specific type from the first liquid (see, for example, the description in Patent Document 1).

[0003] The first liquid may be a specimen such as blood, the second liquid may be a buffer solution such as saline, and the flow channel device may be any of a variety of devices having fine flow channels. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2023 / 189163 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] There is room for improvement in reducing the consumables required to introduce liquid into the flow channels of a flow channel device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A particle separator is disclosed.

[0007] One aspect of the particle separation device includes a placement unit, an installation unit, a supply unit, a pressing unit, a cleaning unit including a cleaning tank, and a control unit. The placement unit includes a portion where a first container storing a first liquid is placed. The first liquid includes a plurality of first particles and a plurality of second particles smaller than the plurality of first particles. The installation unit includes a portion where a flow path device is placed. The flow path device includes a main body, a first liquid supply unit, and a second liquid supply unit. The main body has a flow path unit and a plurality of holes. The flow path unit does not open on an outer surface of the main body. Each of the plurality of holes communicates with the flow path unit and opens on the outer surface. The plurality of holes includes a first introduction hole and a second introduction hole. The first introduction hole has a first introduction port that opens on a surface of the outer surface facing a first direction. The second introduction port has a second introduction port that opens on a surface of the outer surface facing the first direction. The flow path portion includes a plurality of flow paths for separating the plurality of first particles and the plurality of second particles by introducing the second liquid through the second inlet and the first liquid through the first inlet. The first liquid supply portion includes a first cylindrical portion and a first movable member. The first cylindrical portion protrudes in the first direction from a surface of the outer surface facing the first direction. The first cylindrical portion has a first internal space connected to the first inlet. The first movable member is fitted inside the first cylindrical portion. The first movable member has a first inlet for introducing the first liquid from an external space into a first space between the first movable member and the main body portion in the first internal space. The second liquid supply portion includes a second cylindrical portion and a second movable member. The second cylindrical portion protrudes in the first direction from a surface of the outer surface facing the first direction. The second cylindrical portion has a second internal space connected to the second inlet. The second movable member is fitted inside the second cylindrical portion. The second movable member has a second introduction portion for introducing the second liquid from an external space into a second space between the second movable member and the main body portion in the second internal space. The supply portion includes a nozzle portion, a first movement mechanism, and a suction / discharge portion.The first moving mechanism moves the nozzle portion to move a tip portion of the nozzle portion among a plurality of regions including a first region, a second region, a third region, and a fourth region. The first region is located within the first container when the first container is placed in the placement section. The second region is located from the first introduction section to the first space when the flow path device is placed in the installation section. The third region is located from the second introduction section to the second space when the flow path device is placed in the installation section. The fourth region is located within the cleaning tank. The suction and discharge unit sucks liquid into the nozzle portion and discharges liquid from the nozzle portion. The supply unit performs a first supply operation and a second supply operation under the control of the control unit. The first supply operation includes an operation in which the first moving mechanism moves the nozzle portion to position the tip portion in the first region, the suction and discharge unit sucks and holds the first liquid from the first container using the nozzle portion, and then the first moving mechanism moves the nozzle portion to position the tip portion in the second region and the suction and discharge unit discharges the first liquid into the first space using the nozzle portion. The second supply operation includes an operation in which the first moving mechanism moves the nozzle portion to position the tip portion in the third region and causes the nozzle portion to discharge the second liquid into the second space. The pressing unit includes a first pressing member, a second pressing member, and a driving mechanism. The pressing unit performs a first pressing operation and a second pressing operation. The first pressing operation includes an operation in which the driving mechanism presses the first movable member of the flow path device installed on the installation unit toward the first inlet using the first pressing member. The second pressing operation includes an operation of the driving mechanism to push the second movable member of the flow path device installed on the installation unit toward the second inlet by the second pressing member. The cleaning unit is a unit where a cleaning process for cleaning the nozzle unit is performed when the tip portion is located in the fourth region within the cleaning tank. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] It is possible to reduce the number of consumables required for introducing liquid into the flow channel of the flow channel device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an example of the general configuration of a particle separation device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of a first container in which a first liquid is stored. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the arrangement unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the placement unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a front view schematically illustrating an example of a state in which the first container is placed in the placement section. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a plan view schematically showing an example of the configuration of a flow channel device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front view schematically showing an example of the configuration of a flow channel device. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a virtual cross section of the flow channel device taken at position VIII-VIII in FIG. 6, viewed in the +Y direction. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a plan view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the first portion. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a front view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the first portion. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a virtual cross section of the first portion taken at position IX-IX in FIG. 9, viewed in the -X direction. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a virtual cross section of the first portion taken at position XII-XII in FIG. 9, viewed in the -X direction. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a plan view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the second portion. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a plan view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the third portion. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a plan view schematically showing an example of the configuration of a flow channel section and a plurality of holes in a flow channel device. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a plan view showing an area XVI enclosed by a rectangular dashed line in FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a plan view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the installation unit. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a virtual cross section of the installation section taken along the position XVIII-XVIII in FIG. 17, viewed in the +X direction. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a plan view schematically showing an example of a state in which a flow path device is installed on an installation section. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the nozzle portion and the suction and discharge portion of the supply portion. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining the movement of the nozzle portion by the first movement mechanism. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the movement of the nozzle portion by the first movement mechanism. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining the movement of the nozzle portion by the first movement mechanism. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining the movement of the nozzle portion by the first movement mechanism. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a front view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the first moving mechanism. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a plan view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the first moving mechanism. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a configuration for discharging a liquid different from the first liquid from the nozzle portion in the supply portion. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the first switching unit and the supply source. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a diagram schematically illustrating another example of the configuration of the first switching unit and the supply source. [Figure 30]FIG. 30 is a diagram conceptually illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a pressing unit. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a plan view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the pressing portion. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a plan view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the pressing portion. [Figure 33] FIG. 33 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a state in which the particle separator is in operation. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is a front view schematically showing an example of the overall configuration of the cleaning unit. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a control unit. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a configuration connected to each of the second outlet and the third outlet. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation flow of the particle separator. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the particle separator during operation. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the particle separator during operation. [Figure 40] FIG. 40 is a schematic view illustrating an example of a step of filling the channel portion with the second liquid. [Figure 41] FIG. 41 is a schematic view illustrating an example of a step of filling the channel portion with the second liquid. [Figure 42] FIG. 42 is a schematic view illustrating an example of a step of filling the channel portion with the second liquid. [Figure 43] FIG. 43 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the particle separator during operation. [Figure 44] FIG. 44 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the particle separator during operation. [Figure 45] FIG. 45 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the particle separator during operation. [Figure 46] FIG. 46 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the particle separator during operation. [Figure 47] FIG. 47 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the particle separator during operation. [Figure 48] FIG. 48 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the particle separator during operation. [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the particle separator during operation. [Figure 50] FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing another first example of the flow of operation of the particle separator. [Figure 51] FIG. 51 is a flow chart showing another second example of the flow of operation of the particle separator. [Figure 52] FIG. 52 is a flow chart showing another third example of the flow of operation of the particle separator. [Figure 53] FIG. 53 is a diagram schematically illustrating another example of the configuration connected to the second outlet. [Figure 54] FIG. 54 is a diagram conceptually showing a first other example of the schematic configuration of the pressing portion. [Figure 55] FIG. 55 is a plan view schematically showing a first other example of the configuration of the pressing portion. [Figure 56] FIG. 56 is a diagram schematically showing a second example of another schematic configuration of the pressing portion. [Figure 57] FIG. 57 is a plan view schematically showing a second other example of the configuration of the pressing portion. [Figure 58] FIG. 58 is a front view schematically showing another example of the general configuration of the cleaning unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] A technique is known in which a liquid containing a plurality of particles of a plurality of types (also referred to as a first liquid) and a liquid other than the first liquid (also referred to as a second liquid) are introduced into a flow path device, and a plurality of particles of a specific type are separated from the first liquid. Here, for example, a specimen such as blood is used as the first liquid. For example, a buffer solution such as physiological saline is used as the second liquid. For example, various devices having fine flow paths are used as the flow path device.

[0011] When supplying the first liquid and the second liquid into the flow channel of the flow channel device, for example, the second liquid is supplied into the flow channel of the flow channel device by a supply unit including a syringe or the like via a tubular member such as a tube connected to a first opening of the flow channel device, and the first liquid is supplied into the flow channel of the flow channel device by a suction / discharge unit including a syringe or the like via a tubular member such as a tube connected to a second opening of the flow channel device.

[0012] For example, when a second liquid is supplied from the first opening to a flow path device having a flow path portion therein that enables the flow of liquid between a first opening and a second opening, and the first liquid is supplied from the second opening, the following preparation step, filling step, first suction step, and introduction step can be carried out in that order.

[0013] In the preparation step, a flow path device having a flow path section therein that allows liquid to flow between a first opening and a second opening, and a switching section having a first inlet / outlet, a second inlet / outlet, and a third inlet / outlet and that can be selectively set to any one of a first state, a second state, and a third state are connected using a tubular member (also referred to as a tubular member) such as a tube and a connector member, etc., in a manner that allows liquid to flow between the second opening and the first inlet / outlet. Also, in this preparation step, the tubular member and connector member, etc. are used to connect an internal region of the liquid storage section in which the first liquid is stored and the second inlet / outlet in a manner that allows liquid to flow. Also, in this preparation step, the tubular member and connector member, etc. are used to connect an intake / exhaust section such as a syringe that can suck and discharge liquid and the third inlet / outlet in a manner that allows liquid to flow. Furthermore, in this preparation step, a tubular member, a connector member, or the like is used to connect a liquid supply unit, such as a syringe, capable of supplying a second liquid different from the first liquid to the first opening in a manner that allows liquid to flow therethrough. Here, the first state is a state in which liquid can flow between the first inlet / outlet and the second inlet / outlet. The second state is a state in which liquid can flow between the second inlet / outlet and the third inlet / outlet. The third state is a state in which liquid can flow between the first inlet / outlet and the third inlet / outlet.

[0014] In the filling process, after the preparation process, with the switching unit set to the first state, the second liquid is supplied by the liquid supply unit, and the flow path from the liquid supply unit to the liquid storage unit via the first opening, flow path unit, second opening, first inlet / outlet and second inlet / outlet is filled with the second liquid.

[0015] In the first suction process, after the filling process, with the switching unit set to the second state, the suction / discharge unit sucks the first liquid from the liquid storage unit into the suction / discharge unit through the second inlet / outlet and the third inlet / outlet.

[0016] In the introduction process, after the first suction process, with the switching unit set to the third state, the suction / discharge unit introduces the first liquid into the flow path section via the third inlet / outlet, the first inlet / outlet and the second opening.

[0017] However, in the above-described embodiment, for example, every time the first liquid is changed, it is necessary to replace the flow path device and various components for introducing liquid into the flow path of the flow path device. The various components to be replaced may include, for example, a switching unit such as a three-way valve, a tubular member such as a tube, a liquid storage unit such as a vial or tank for storing the first liquid, and a liquid supply unit and a suction / discharge unit each including a syringe. In other words, a large number of consumables may be required to introduce liquid into the flow path of the flow path device.

[0018] This increase in the number of consumables can result in various disadvantages, such as an increase in the amount of resources used, and an increase in the cost and number of steps required for preparation for introducing liquid into the flow path device.

[0019] Therefore, there is room for improvement in terms of reducing consumables required for introducing liquid into the flow channels of the flow channel device.

[0020] Therefore, the inventors of the present disclosure have created a technology that can reduce the number of consumables required to introduce liquid into the flow channel of a flow channel device.

[0021] In the following, various embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, parts having the same or similar configurations and functions are designated by the same reference numerals. In the following description, duplicated explanations will be omitted. The drawings are schematic.

[0022] For convenience, the drawings include diagrams in which a right-handed XYZ coordinate system is indicated. In the following explanation, the +Z direction is set as the vertically upward direction (also simply referred to as the upward direction). The vertically downward direction (also simply referred to as the downward direction) is also referred to as the -Z direction. The direction opposite to the +X direction is also referred to as the -X direction. The direction opposite to the +Y direction is also referred to as the -Y direction.

[0023] 1. First Embodiment <1-1. Example of particle separation device configuration> 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a particle separator 7 according to the first embodiment. The particle separator 7 can separate a specific type of particle from a liquid (also referred to as a first liquid) L1 containing a plurality of particles of a plurality of types and a liquid (also referred to as a second liquid) L2 different from the first liquid L1, for example, by introducing the liquid L1 and a liquid (also referred to as a second liquid) L2 into a flow path device 100 (described later).

[0024] The first liquid L1 contains a plurality of first particles and a plurality of second particles that are smaller than the plurality of first particles. In other words, the first liquid L1 contains a plurality of types of particles that differ in size. For example, a specimen such as blood, which is a liquid containing a plurality of types of particles, is used as the first liquid L1. The specimen may include a liquid excreted from the human body, such as blood or urine. For example, when the first liquid L1 is blood, the first particles are white blood cells and the second particles are red blood cells. In this case, the plurality of types of particles in the first liquid L1 include a plurality of white blood cells as the plurality of first particles and a plurality of red blood cells as the plurality of second particles. The plurality of particles of a specific type to be separated using the flow channel device 100 may be a plurality of white blood cells as the plurality of first particles or a plurality of red blood cells as the plurality of second particles.

[0025] For example, when the first liquid L1 is a specimen, the second liquid L2 may be a buffer solution. For example, when the first liquid L1 is blood, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) may be used as an example of the second liquid L2. The second liquid L2 may be, for example, a liquid in which other components have been added to PBS. For example, the other components may include ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) as a second component, or bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a third component.

[0026] 1, the particle separator 7 includes a placement unit 71, an installation unit 72, a supply unit 73, a pressing unit 74, and a cleaning unit 75. The particle separator 7 may further include a control unit (also referred to as a controller) 76.

[0027] The particle separator 7 has a base 70 such as a pedestal. The placement unit 71, the installation unit 72, the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, the cleaning unit 75, and the control unit 76 may each be located on the base 70. More specifically, the placement unit 71, the installation unit 72, the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, the cleaning unit 75, and the control unit 76 may each be fixed to the base 70. In other words, the placement unit 71, the installation unit 72, the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, the cleaning unit 75, and the control unit 76 may be connected to each other by the base 70. The material of the base 70 may be, for example, a metal or resin having high rigidity and high strength. The placement unit 71, the installation unit 72, the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, the cleaning unit 75, and the control unit 76 may be connected to one another via, for example, one or more members having various shapes, such as a rod shape or a frame shape, different from the base unit 70. Here, the control unit 76 does not need to be fixed to the base unit 70, and does not need to be connected to each part of the particle separator 7 other than the control unit 76, as long as it is connected to each part of the particle separator 7, such as the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, and the cleaning unit 75, in a manner that allows for signal transmission and reception. The control unit 76 may be connected to each part of the particle separator 7, such as the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, and the cleaning unit 75, in a manner that allows for signal transmission and reception via a wired method such as a cable, or may be connected in a manner that allows for signal transmission and reception wirelessly.

[0028] <1-1-1. Placement section> The placement section 71 includes a portion where a container (also referred to as a first container) 501 storing the first liquid L1 is placed. In other words, the placement section 71 may be a portion where the first container 501 is placed.

[0029] For example, a container such as a blood collection tube, a blood collection bottle, or a sample cup is used as the first container 501. Fig. 2 is a front view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the first container 501 in which the first liquid L1 is stored. Note that the configuration of the first container 501 is not limited to the example shown in Fig. 2.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, the first container 501 may be a bottomed container in which the first liquid L1 is stored in a space 501s inside the first container 501. In FIG. 2, the area in which the first liquid L1 is present is indicated by matte hatching. The first container 501 has, for example, a bottom 5011 and an opening 5012. The bottom 5011 is the bottom portion of the first container 501. The opening 5012 is the portion of the first container 501 that has an opening 501o. For example, when the first liquid L1 is stored in the space 501s, the first container 501 is used in a state in which the bottom 5011 is located downward, the opening 5012 is located upward, and the opening 501o is open upward. FIG. 2 shows a blood collection tube as an example of the first container 501.

[0031] The arrangement unit 71 may have a structure that allows, for example, a user of the particle separation device 7 (also simply referred to as a user) to easily install the first container 501 and stably hold the first container 501. Furthermore, the arrangement unit 71 may have a structure that allows, for example, a tip portion (also referred to as a nozzle tip portion) 731t of the nozzle portion 731, which will be described later, to be positioned within the first container 501 placed in the arrangement unit 71. Therefore, for example, there are no particular restrictions on the structure of the arrangement unit 71 as long as the arrangement unit 71 has a structure that allows a user to easily install the first container 501, stably hold the first container 501, and position the nozzle tip portion 731t within the first container 501.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a plan view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the placement unit 71. FIG. 4 is a front view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the placement unit 71. In FIG. 3, the outer edge of the cleaning tank 751 of the cleaning unit 75 is schematically depicted by a thin two-dot chain line. FIG. 5 is a front view schematically showing an example of the state in which the first container 501 is placed in the placement unit 71. In FIG. 5, the area in which the first liquid L1 is present is hatched in a matte finish. Note that the configuration of the placement unit 71 is not limited to the example shown in FIGS. 3 to 5.

[0033] 3 and 4, the arrangement portion 71 may include, for example, a first holding portion 711, a second holding portion 712, and a connecting portion 713. The first holding portion 711, the connecting portion 713, and the second holding portion 712 may be positioned in this order in the upward +Z direction.

[0034] The first holding portion 711 is, for example, a portion for holding a portion of the first container 501 on the bottom 5011 side. The first holding portion 711 may have, for example, a recess 711h shaped to fit into the portion of the first container 501 on the bottom 5011 side, as shown in Fig. 5. The recess 711h may have, for example, a shape that is open in the +Z direction and recessed downward in the -Z direction.

[0035] The second holding portion 712 is, for example, a portion for holding a portion of the first container 501 on the opening 5012 side. For example, as shown in Fig. 5, the second holding portion 712 may have a shape that holds the portion of the first container 501 on the opening 5012 side from the periphery. For example, the second holding portion 712 may have a shape that allows the first container 501 to be inserted in the downward -Z direction. For example, the second holding portion 712 may have a C-shape or an annular shape when viewed in a plan view facing downward in the -Z direction.

[0036] Connecting portion 713 is a portion that connects first holding portion 711 and second holding portion 712. Connecting portion 713 has a structure that connects first holding portion 711 and second holding portion 712, and may have any shape, such as a plate, a rod, or a frame, as long as it has a structure that does not interfere with the placement of first container 501.

[0037] Here, for example, any of the first holding portion 711, the second holding portion 712, and the connecting portion 713 may be fixed to or connected to the base portion 70. In the example of Figures 4 and 5, the first holding portion 711 is fixed to the base portion 70. In Figures 4 and 5, an example of a part of the base portion 70 to which the first holding portion 711 is fixed is schematically shown by a thin two-dot chain line.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 5, the first container 501 is placed in the placement section 71 having the above-described configuration with the opening 501o facing upward.

[0039] <1-1-2. Installation section> The installation section 72 includes a portion where the flow path device 100 is installed. In other words, the installation section 72 may be a portion where the flow path device 100 is installed.

[0040] Here, the configuration and function of the flow path device 100 will be described, and then the configuration of the installation section 72 will be described.

[0041] <1-1-2-1. Example of flow path device configuration> The flow path device 100 has a flow path into which, for example, a first liquid L1 and a second liquid L2 different from the first liquid L1 are introduced, and thereby a plurality of particles of a specific type can be separated from the first liquid L1. In this flow path device 100, particle separation is performed using, for example, a method known as hydrodynamic filtration. According to this hydrodynamic filtration, a plurality of particles of a specific type can be separated from the first liquid L1 in the flow path section 11 by introducing the first liquid L1 and the second liquid L2, which contain a plurality of particles of two or more different sizes, into the flow path section 11.

[0042] FIG. 6 is a plan view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the flow channel device 100. FIG. 7 is a front view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the flow channel device 100. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a virtual cross section of the flow channel device 100 viewed in the +Y direction at position VIII-VIII in FIG. 6. Here, the orientation and posture of the flow channel device 100 will be described assuming that the flow channel device 100 is installed in the installation section 72. Note that the configuration of the flow channel device 100 is not limited to the examples shown in FIGS. 6 to 8.

[0043] 6 to 8, the flow path device 100 includes a main body 1, a first liquid supply section 2, and a second liquid supply section 3. The main body 1 has an outer surface 1s.

[0044] The main body 1 has, for example, a plate-like shape. The outer surface 1s includes, for example, an upper surface 1a as a first surface located on the +Z direction side as a first direction, a lower surface 1b as a second surface located on the -Z direction side as a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a side surface 1c as a third surface connecting the upper surface 1a and the lower surface 1b. In other words, the main body 1 has, for example, the upper surface 1a as a first surface and the lower surface 1b as a second surface opposite to the upper surface 1a. The upper surface 1a is located closer to the +Z direction than the lower surface 1b. The upper surface 1a may be a surface facing the +Z direction as the first direction. The upper surface 1a may be, for example, a surface along the XY plane and have a normal line along the +Z direction. The lower surface 1b may be a surface facing the -Z direction as a second direction. The lower surface 1b may be, for example, a surface along the XY plane and have a normal line along the -Z direction. 6 to 8, side surface 1c includes a surface facing the +X direction, a surface facing the +Y direction, a surface facing the -Y direction, and a surface facing the -X direction. Side surface 1c may also be a surface facing in a direction perpendicular to the +Z direction as the first direction. For example, side surface 1c may include a surface facing the +X direction, a surface facing the +Y direction, a surface facing the -Y direction, and a surface facing the -X direction.

[0045] The thickness of the main body 1 is set, for example, from a few millimeters (mm) to about 10 mm. The thickness of the main body 1 may be, for example, the length along the +Z direction, which is the first direction of the main body 1. The width of the main body 1 is set, for example, from about 30 mm to 100 mm. The width of the main body 1 may be the length along the +X direction of the main body 1 when viewed in a planar view. Unless otherwise specified below, "when viewed in a planar view" means when viewed in a planar view in the -Z direction, which is the second direction. The length of the main body 1 is set, for example, from about 30 mm to 100 mm. The length of the main body 1 may be the length along the +Y direction of the main body 1 when viewed in a planar view.

[0046] In one example of the first embodiment, the flow channel device 100 includes, for example, a first portion 101, a second portion 102, and a third portion 103. The first portion 101, the second portion 102, and the third portion 103 are each made of a material such as a resin.

[0047] FIG. 9 is a plan view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the first portion 101. FIG. 10 is a front view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the first portion 101. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating an example of a virtual cross section of the first portion 101 viewed in the −X direction at position XI-XI in FIG. 9. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating an example of a virtual cross section of the first portion 101 viewed in the −X direction at position XII-XII in FIG. 9. FIG. 13 is a plan view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the second portion 102. FIG. 14 is a plan view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the third portion 103. Note that the configuration of the first portion 101 is not limited to the examples shown in FIGS. 9 to 12. The configuration of the second portion 102 is also not limited to the example shown in FIG. 13. The configuration of the third portion 103 is also not limited to the example shown in FIG. 14.

[0048] The first portion 101 includes, for example, a plate-shaped portion (also referred to as a first plate-shaped portion) 101p. The second portion 102 and the third portion 103 each have, for example, a plate-shaped shape. The main body 1 includes, for example, the first plate-shaped portion 101p of the first portion 101, the second portion 102, and the third portion 103. The first plate-shaped portion 101p, the second portion 102, and the third portion 103 are in a stacked state.

[0049] 6 to 12, the first plate-shaped portion 101p has, for example, a surface (also referred to as a first upper surface) 101a, a surface (also referred to as a first lower surface) 101b opposite to the first upper surface 101a, and a surface (also referred to as a first end surface) 101c connecting the first upper surface 101a and the first lower surface 101b. Note that in the cross-sectional views other than those in FIGS. 11 and 12, the configuration of the first portion 101 is omitted.

[0050] As shown in Figures 6, 7 and 13, the second portion 102 has, for example, a surface (also referred to as the second upper surface) 102a, a surface (also referred to as the second lower surface) 102b opposite to the second upper surface 102a, and a surface (also referred to as the second end surface) 102c connecting the second upper surface 102a and the second lower surface 102b.

[0051] As shown in Figures 6, 7 and 14, the third portion 103 has, for example, a surface (also referred to as the third upper surface) 103a, a surface (also referred to as the third lower surface) 103b opposite to the third upper surface 103a, and a surface (also referred to as the third end surface) 103c connecting the third upper surface 103a and the third lower surface 103b.

[0052] 6 and 7, for example, the second lower surface 102b of the second portion 102 is joined to the first upper surface 101a of the first plate-shaped portion 101p, and the third lower surface 103b of the third portion 103 is joined to the second upper surface 102a of the second portion 102. In this case, the main body 1 may be composed of, for example, the first plate-shaped portion 101p of the first portion 101, the second portion 102, and the third portion 103. In FIG. 9, an example of the outer edge of a region Ac2 of the first upper surface 101a to which the second lower surface 102b is joined is depicted by a thin two-dot chain line. In FIG. 13, an example of the outer edge of a region Ac3 of the second upper surface 102a to which the third lower surface 103b is joined is depicted by a thin two-dot chain line.

[0053] The bonding between the first upper surface 101a and the second lower surface 102b can be achieved without using adhesive, for example, by modifying the surfaces of the first upper surface 101a of the first plate-shaped portion 101p and the second lower surface 102b of the second portion 102, and then bringing the first upper surface 101a and the second lower surface 102b into contact with each other. The bonding between the second upper surface 102a and the third lower surface 103b can be achieved without using adhesive, for example, by modifying the surfaces of the second upper surface 102a of the second portion 102 and the third lower surface 103b of the third portion 103, and then bringing the second upper surface 102a and the third lower surface 103b into contact with each other. The surface modification can be achieved, for example, by irradiation with oxygen plasma or ultraviolet (UV) light using an excimer lamp.

[0054] The thickness of the first plate-shaped portion 101p is set to, for example, about 2 mm to 5 mm. The thickness of the first plate-shaped portion 101p may be the length of the first plate-shaped portion 101p along the +Z direction. The width of the first plate-shaped portion 101p is set to, for example, about 30 mm to 100 mm. The width of the first plate-shaped portion 101p may be the length of the first plate-shaped portion 101p along the +X direction. The length of the first plate-shaped portion 101p is set to, for example, about 30 mm to 100 mm. The length of the first plate-shaped portion 101p may be the length of the first plate-shaped portion 101p along the +Y direction.

[0055] The thickness of the second portion 102 is set to, for example, about 1 mm to 3 mm. The thickness of the second portion 102 may be the length of the second portion 102 along the +Z direction. The width of the second portion 102 is set to, for example, about 20 mm to 90 mm. The width of the second portion 102 may be the length of the second portion 102 along the +X direction. The length of the second portion 102 is set to, for example, about 15 mm to 80 mm. The length of the second portion 102 may be the length of the second portion 102 along the +Y direction.

[0056] The thickness of the third portion 103 is set to, for example, about 1 mm to 3 mm. The thickness of the third portion 103 may be the length of the third portion 103 along the +Z direction. The width of the third portion 103 is set to, for example, about 20 mm to 90 mm. The width of the third portion 103 may be the length of the third portion 103 along the +X direction. The length of the third portion 103 is set to, for example, about 15 mm to 80 mm. The length of the third portion 103 may be the length of the third portion 103 along the +Y direction.

[0057] 6 to 8, the upper surface 1a is made up of the portion of the first upper surface 101a that is not joined to the second lower surface 102b, the portion of the second upper surface 102a that is not joined to the third lower surface 103b, and the third upper surface 103a. The lower surface 1b is made up of the first lower surface 101b. The side surface 1c is made up of the first end surface 101c, the second end surface 102c, and the third end surface 103c.

[0058] <<Main body>> As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the main body 1 has a flow path 11 and a plurality of holes 12.

[0059] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the flow path portion 11 does not open to the outer surface 1s. Each of the multiple holes 12 communicates with the flow path portion 11 and opens to the outer surface 1s of the main body 1. The expression "the first portion communicates with the second portion" refers to a configuration in which the first portion is directly connected to the second portion such that a fluid, such as a liquid, can flow between the first and second portions, or a configuration in which the first portion is connected to the second portion via another portion (also referred to as a third portion) such that a fluid can flow between the first and second portions. Here, the first portion, second portion, and third portion each refer to a portion through which a fluid can flow, such as a flow path or a hole. The flow path portion 11 is located inside the main body 1. From another perspective, for example, the flow path portion 11 does not open to any of the upper surface 1a, lower surface 1b, or side surface 1c. FIG. 7 shows a simplified configuration of the flow path portion 11.

[0060] Fig. 15 is a plan view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the flow channel section 11 and the plurality of holes 12 in the flow channel device 100. In Fig. 15, the outer edge of the flow channel device 100 is omitted, and the outer edges of the flow channel section 11 and the plurality of holes 12 of the flow channel device 100 are drawn with solid lines. Fig. 16 is a plan view showing an area XVI surrounded by a dashed line in the rectangle in Fig. 15. In Fig. 16, the outer edges of the main flow channel 111, the plurality of branch flow channels 112, the first introduction flow channel 113, and the second introduction flow channel 114 are drawn with solid lines.

[0061] The multiple holes 12 include a first introduction hole 121 and a second introduction hole 122. The first introduction hole 121 has an opening (also referred to as a first introduction port) 1o that opens on the top surface 1a, which is the surface of the outer surface 1s that faces the +Z direction as a first direction. The second introduction hole 122 has an opening (also referred to as a second introduction port) 2o that opens on the top surface 1a, which is the surface of the outer surface 1s that faces the +Z direction as the first direction.

[0062] The flow path section 11 includes a plurality of flow paths for separating a plurality of first particles and a plurality of second particles by introducing a second liquid L2 through the second introduction hole 122 and a first liquid L1 through the first introduction hole 121.

[0063] <<<Example of a flow path>>> As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the flow path section 11 has a configuration in which a plurality of flow paths that are not open on the outer surface 1s of the flow path device 100 are connected together.

[0064] In one example of the first embodiment, the multiple flow paths in the flow path section 11 include, for example, a main flow path 111 as a first flow path, multiple branch flow paths 112 as multiple second flow paths, a first inlet flow path 113 as a third flow path, and a second inlet flow path 114 as a fourth flow path. In one example of the first embodiment, the multiple flow paths in the flow path section 11 may include a first outlet flow path 115 as a fifth flow path, a second outlet flow path 116 as a sixth flow path, and a third outlet flow path 117 as a seventh flow path.

[0065] The main flow path 111 has an upstream portion (also referred to as a first upstream portion) 111u and a downstream portion (also referred to as a first downstream portion) 111d. In the main flow path 111, the first downstream portion 111d is a portion on the opposite side from the first upstream portion 111u. The main flow path 111 may be, for example, a flow path extending along a fourth direction intersecting with the +Z direction as the first direction. In an example of the first embodiment, the -Y direction is used as the fourth direction. The first upstream portion 111u is a portion of the main flow path 111 located at an end of the main flow path 111 in a direction opposite to the fourth direction. In an example of the first embodiment, the +Y direction is used as the direction opposite to the fourth direction. The first downstream portion 111d is a portion of the main flow path 111 located at an end of the main flow path 111 in the fourth direction (for example, the -Y direction). In other words, the main flow path 111 may extend, for example, from the first upstream portion 111u toward the first downstream portion 111d in the fourth direction (for example, the -Y direction). The main flow path 111 may extend, for example, linearly along the fourth direction (for example, the -Y direction). In other words, the main flow path 111 may extend, for example, linearly along the fourth direction (for example, the -Y direction) from the first upstream portion 111u toward the first downstream portion 111d.

[0066] Each of the multiple branch flow paths 112 is connected to the main flow path 111. In other words, each of the multiple branch flow paths 112 may be connected to the main flow path 111 between the first upstream portion 111u and the first downstream portion 111d of the main flow path 111. Each of the multiple branch flow paths 112 is narrower than the main flow path 111. Each of the multiple branch flow paths 112 has a portion 112d (also referred to as a second downstream portion) on the opposite side from the main flow path 111. In other words, in each of the multiple branch flow paths 112, the second downstream portion 112d may be a portion of the branch flow path 112 located at the end of the branch flow path 112 on the opposite side from the main flow path 111.

[0067] Each of the branch flow paths 112 opens at a side surface of the main flow path 111 in a fifth direction between the first upstream portion 111u and the first downstream portion 111d, the fifth direction being perpendicular to the fourth direction. In one example of the first embodiment, the −X direction is used as the fifth direction. In other words, the main flow path 111 has a side surface (also referred to as a first side surface) located on the fifth direction (e.g., the −X direction). Each of the branch flow paths 112 opens at the first side surface between the first upstream portion 111u and the first downstream portion 111d of the main flow path 111. In other words, the main flow path 111 has a plurality of portions (also referred to as connection portions) Cn1 to which the branch flow paths 112 are connected. For example, each of the branch flow paths 112 branches off from the main flow path 111 at different positions in the fourth direction (e.g., the −Y direction). In other words, the plurality of connection portions Cn1 to which the plurality of branch flow paths 112 are respectively connected are located at different positions in the fourth direction (e.g., the -Y direction). In the examples of FIGS. 6, 14, and 15, each of the plurality of branch flow paths 112 extends along the fifth direction (e.g., the -X direction). From another perspective, the plurality of branch flow paths 112 are lined up along the fourth direction (e.g., the -Y direction). The number of the plurality of branch flow paths 112 is set to, for example, several tens to several hundreds. For convenience, 13 branch flow paths 112 are depicted in FIGS. 6, 14, and 15.

[0068] The first inlet flow path 113 is connected to the first upstream portion 111u of the main flow path 111. The first inlet flow path 113 includes a portion 113c (also referred to as a first connection portion) connected to the first upstream portion 111u. The first connection portion 113c extends along the fourth direction (e.g., the -Y direction). In other words, the first inlet flow path 113 is connected to the first upstream portion 111u of the main flow path 111 in the fourth direction (e.g., the -Y direction). The first inlet flow path 113 is thicker than each of the multiple branch flow paths 112. In one example of the first embodiment, the first inlet flow path 113 has a flow path 1131 in the first portion 101, a hole 1132 extending from the first portion 101 to the third portion 103, and a flow path 1133 in the third portion 103. The hole portion 1132 has a configuration in which, for example, a hole portion 11321 in the first portion 101, a through-hole 11322 in the second portion 102, and a hole portion 11323 in the third portion 103 are connected in this order. In the examples of FIGS. 6, 9 to 11, and 13 to 15, the flow path 1131 in the first portion 101 extends along the -Y direction. The hole portion 1132 extends along the +Z direction. The flow path 1133 is an L-shaped flow path in which a portion extending along the +X direction and a portion extending along the -Y direction are connected in this order.

[0069] The second inlet flow path 114 is connected to the first upstream portion 111u of the main flow path 111. The second inlet flow path 114 includes, for example, a portion 114c (also referred to as a second connection portion) connected to the first upstream portion 111u. The second connection portion 114c opens at a side surface of the main flow path 111 in the sixth direction, which is opposite to the fifth direction, at the first upstream portion 111u of the main flow path 111. In one example of the first embodiment, the −X direction is used as the fifth direction, and the +X direction is used as the sixth direction. In other words, the main flow path 111 has a side surface (also referred to as a second side surface) located on the sixth direction (e.g., +X direction) side. The second connection portion 114c opens at a second side surface of the first upstream portion 111u. In further other words, the second inlet flow path 114 is connected to the first upstream portion 111u of the main flow path 111 in the fifth direction (e.g., the −X direction). The second inlet flow path 114 may be, for example, wider than each of the multiple branch flow paths 112. In one example of the first embodiment, the second inlet flow path 114 has a flow path 1141 in the first portion 101, a hole 1142 extending from the first portion 101 to the third portion 103, and a flow path 1143 in the third portion 103. For example, the hole 1142 has a configuration in which a hole 11421 in the first portion 101, a through-hole 11422 in the second portion 102, and a hole 11423 in the third portion 103 are connected in this order. In the examples of FIGS. 6, 9, 10, and 12 to 15, the flow path 1141 in the first portion 101 extends in the -Y direction. The hole 1142 extends in the +Z direction. The flow channel 1143 is an L-shaped flow channel in which a portion extending in the −Y direction and a portion extending in the −X direction are connected in this order.

[0070] The first discharge flow path 115 is connected to the first downstream portion 111d of the main flow path 111. The first discharge flow path 115 is thicker than each of the multiple branch flow paths 112. In an example of the first embodiment, the first discharge flow path 115 opens to a side surface of the first downstream portion 111d facing a fifth direction (for example, the −X direction). In other words, the first discharge flow path 115 opens to a first side surface of the first downstream portion 111d. In the examples of FIGS. 6, 14, and 15, the first discharge flow path 115 extends in the −X direction, −Y direction, and +X direction in this order as it moves away from the first downstream portion 111d.

[0071] The second discharge flow path 116 is connected to the second downstream portions 112d of each of the branch flow paths 112. The second discharge flow path 116 is wider than each of the branch flow paths 112. In one example of the first embodiment, each of the branch flow paths 112 is connected to the second discharge flow path 116 at a different position in the fourth direction (e.g., the −Y direction). In the examples of FIGS. 6, 14, and 15, the second discharge flow path 116 is an L-shaped flow path having a thick portion in the −X direction connected to each of the second downstream portions 112d of the branch flow paths 112 and extending linearly along the −Y direction as the fourth direction, and a narrow portion in the +Y direction extending linearly for a short length along the −X direction as the fifth direction, connected in this order.

[0072] The third discharge flow path 117 is connected to the first downstream portion 111d of the main flow path 111. The third discharge flow path 117 is, for example, thicker than each of the multiple branch flow paths 112. In one example of the first embodiment, the third discharge flow path 117 is connected to the first downstream portion 111d in a direction opposite to the fourth direction. In one example of the first embodiment, the +Y direction is used as the direction opposite to the fourth direction. In the examples of FIGS. 6, 14, and 15, the third discharge flow path 117 extends in the -Y direction, +X direction, -Y direction, and -X direction in this order as it moves away from the first downstream portion 111d.

[0073] <<<An example of multiple holes>>> 6 and 7, the plurality of holes 12 include a first inlet hole 121, a second inlet hole 122, a first outlet hole 123, and a second outlet hole 124. In one example of the first embodiment, the plurality of holes 12 may include a third outlet hole 125.

[0074] The first inlet hole 121 is connected to the first inlet flow path 113. In other words, the first inlet hole 121 is connected to the first upstream portion 111u of the main flow path 111 via the first inlet flow path 113. From another perspective, the first inlet hole 121 communicates with the first upstream portion 111u. The first inlet hole 121 is located, for example, in the first portion 101. In other words, the first portion 101 has, for example, the first inlet hole 121. The first inlet hole 121 may extend, for example, along the -Z direction. The diameter of the first inlet hole 121 is set, for example, to be equal to or greater than the width of the first inlet flow path 113. The first inlet hole 121 has, for example, a first inlet (also referred to as a first inlet) 1o that opens in the upper surface 1a of the main body 1. 6, 14 and 15, the first introduction channel 113 extends from the first introduction hole 121 toward the first upstream section 111u in the -Y direction, +Z direction, +X direction and -Y direction in this order.

[0075] The second inlet hole 122 is connected to the second inlet flow path 114. In other words, the second inlet hole 122 is connected to the first upstream portion 111u of the main flow path 111 via the second inlet flow path 114. From another perspective, the second inlet hole 122 communicates with the first upstream portion 111u. The second inlet hole 122 is located, for example, in the first portion 101. In other words, the first portion 101 has, for example, the second inlet hole 122. The second inlet hole 122 may extend, for example, along the -Z direction. The diameter of the second inlet hole 122 is set, for example, to be equal to or greater than the width of the second inlet flow path 114. The second inlet hole 122 has, for example, a second inlet port (also referred to as a second inlet) 2o that opens on the upper surface 1a of the main body 1. 6, 14 and 15, the second introduction channel 114 extends from the second introduction hole 122 toward the first upstream section 111u in the -Y direction, +Z direction, -Y direction and -X direction in this order.

[0076] The first discharge hole 123 communicates with the first downstream portion 111d. In an example of the first embodiment, the first discharge hole 123 is connected to the first discharge flow path 115. In other words, the first discharge hole 123 is connected to the first downstream portion 111d of the main flow path 111 via the first discharge flow path 115. In an example of the first embodiment, the first discharge hole 123 has an opening (also referred to as a first discharge port or a first outlet) 3o that opens on the upper surface 1a of the main body 1. In an example of the first embodiment, the first discharge hole 123 has a configuration in which a through hole 1233 in the third portion 103 and a through hole 1232 in the second portion 102 are connected to each other. The first discharge hole 123 may extend, for example, along the +Z direction. The diameter of the first discharge hole 123 is set, for example, to be equal to or greater than the width of the first discharge flow path 115. In the examples of FIGS. 6, 14, and 15, the first discharge flow path 115 extends from the first downstream portion 111d toward the first discharge hole 123 in the −X direction, −Y direction, and +X direction in this order.

[0077] The second discharge hole 124 communicates with the second downstream portions 112d of each of the branch flow paths 112. In an example of the first embodiment, the second discharge hole 124 is connected to the second discharge flow path 116. In other words, the second discharge hole 124 is connected to the second downstream portions 112d of each of the branch flow paths 112 via the second discharge flow path 116. In an example of the first embodiment, the second discharge hole 124 has a configuration in which the hole portion 1243 in the third portion 103, the through hole 1242 in the second portion 102, and the through hole 1241 in the first portion 101 are connected in this order. The second discharge hole 124 may extend, for example, along the -Z direction. Here, for example, the second discharge flow path 116 is thicker than each of the branch flow paths 112. This ensures that the second discharge flow path 116 has a sufficient volume to guide all of the liquid flowing in from the multiple branch flow paths 112 to the second discharge hole 124. The diameter of the second discharge hole 124 is set, for example, to be equal to or greater than the width of the portion of the second discharge flow path 116 connected to the second discharge hole 124 at the end of the second discharge flow path 116 in the -Y direction. The second discharge hole 124 has, for example, a portion 4o (also referred to as a second discharge port or a second outlet) that opens on the lower surface 1b of the main body 1. In the examples of FIGS. 6, 14, and 15, the second discharge flow path 116 is an L-shaped flow path in which the multiple second downstream portions 112d of the multiple branch flow paths 112 are connected to each other and which extends linearly along the -Y direction (fourth direction) (also referred to as a first flow path portion), and a portion (also referred to as a second flow path portion) that extends linearly for a short length along the -X direction (fifth direction) (also referred to as a short flow path portion), which are connected in this order. In this second discharge flow path 116, the width in the +X direction is large in the first flow path portion, and the width in the +Y direction is small in the second flow path portion. In other words, the second discharge flow path 116 extends in the −Y direction and then the −X direction in a form in which the outlets of the multiple branch flow paths 112 are collected and connected to the second discharge hole 124.

[0078] The third discharge hole 125 communicates with the first downstream portion 111d. In an example of the first embodiment, the third discharge hole 125 is connected to the third discharge flow path 117. In other words, the third discharge hole 125 is connected to the first downstream portion 111d of the main flow path 111 via the third discharge flow path 117. In an example of the first embodiment, the third discharge hole 125 has a configuration in which a hole portion 1253 in the third portion 103, a through hole 1252 in the second portion 102, and a through hole 1251 in the first portion 101 are connected in this order. The third discharge hole 125 may extend along the -Z direction. The diameter of the third discharge hole 125 is set, for example, to be equal to or greater than the width of the third discharge flow path 117. The third discharge hole 125 has, for example, a portion 5o (also referred to as a third discharge port or a third outlet) that opens on the lower surface 1b of the main body 1. 6, 14 and 15, the third discharge flow path 117 extends from the first downstream portion 111d toward the third discharge hole 125 in the −Y direction, +X direction, −Y direction and −X direction in this order.

[0079] <<<An example of the configuration of the first part>>> 9 to 12, the first portion 101 includes, for example, a first plate-shaped portion 101p, a first cylindrical portion 21, and a second cylindrical portion 31. The first cylindrical portion 21 constitutes a part of the first liquid supply portion 2. The second cylindrical portion 31 constitutes a part of the second liquid supply portion 3.

[0080] The first plate-shaped portion 101p has, for example, a first introduction hole 121, a flow path 1131, a hole portion 11321, a second introduction hole 122, a flow path 1141, a hole portion 11421, a through hole 1241, a through hole 1251, and a recessed portion 1231r. In other words, for example, the main body 1 includes the recessed portion 1231r. The hole portion 11321 constitutes a portion of the hole portion 1132. The hole portion 11421 constitutes a portion of the hole portion 1142. The through hole 1241 constitutes a portion of the second discharge hole 124. The through hole 1251 constitutes a portion of the third discharge hole 125. The recessed portion 1231r is a portion recessed in the −Z direction, which is the second direction. This recessed portion 1231r is located on the −Z direction side, which is the second direction, of first discharge hole 123 in main body 1. The internal space of this recessed portion 1231r is connected to the internal space of first discharge hole 123.

[0081] The first introduction hole 121, the flow path 1131, and the hole portion 11321 are connected in this order. In the example of FIGS. 9 and 11, the flow path 1131 extends along the -Y direction inside the first plate-shaped portion 101p. The first introduction hole 121 is connected to one end (also referred to as the first end) of the flow path 1131 in the +Y direction. The first introduction hole 121 extends along the -Z direction from a first introduction port 1o opening on the first upper surface 101a toward a portion connected to the flow path 1131. The hole portion 11321 is connected to an end (also referred to as the second end) of the flow path 1131 in the -Y direction, which is the end opposite the first end. The hole portion 11321 has a portion (also referred to as the first connection port) 11321o connected to a through-hole 11322 of the second portion 102 on the first upper surface 101a. The hole portion 11321 extends in the +Z direction from the portion connected to the flow path 1131 toward the first connection port 11321o. The first cylindrical portion 21 protrudes in the +Z direction from the first upper surface 101a. When the first portion 101 is viewed from above, the first cylindrical portion 21 is positioned in a manner that surrounds the first inlet 1o. In the example of FIG. 9, when the first portion 101 is viewed from above, the first cylindrical portion 21 is positioned in a manner that surrounds the first inlet 1o around the Z axis.

[0082] The second introduction hole 122, the flow path 1141, and the hole portion 11421 are connected in this order. In the example of FIGS. 9 and 12, the flow path 1141 extends along the -Y direction inside the first plate-shaped portion 101p. The second introduction hole 122 is connected to one end (also referred to as the third end) of the flow path 1141 in the +Y direction. The second introduction hole 122 extends along the -Z direction from the second introduction port 2o, which opens on the first upper surface 101a, toward a portion connected to the flow path 1141. The hole portion 11421 is connected to the end (also referred to as the fourth end) of the flow path 1141 in the -Y direction, which is the end opposite the third end. The hole portion 11421 has a portion (also referred to as the second connection port) 11421o connected to the through-hole 11422 of the second portion 102 on the first upper surface 101a. The hole portion 11421 extends in the +Z direction from the portion connected to the flow path 1141 toward the second connection port 11421o. The second cylindrical portion 31 protrudes in the +Z direction from the first upper surface 101a. When the first portion 101 is viewed from above, the second cylindrical portion 31 is positioned in a manner that surrounds the second inlet 2o. In the example of FIG. 9, when the first portion 101 is viewed from above, the second cylindrical portion 31 is positioned in a manner that surrounds the second inlet 2o around the Z axis.

[0083] The first portion 101 includes, for example, a first member 1011 and a second member 1012. The first member 1011 includes, for example, a plate-shaped portion (also referred to as a first plate-shaped portion) 10111, a first cylindrical portion 21, and a second cylindrical portion 31. The second member 1012 is a plate-shaped member. The first plate-shaped portion 10111 and the second member 1012 are stacked together. In other words, the second member 1012 is stacked on the first plate-shaped portion 10111. In the example of FIGS. 11 and 12, the first plate-shaped portion 10111 and the second member 1012 are stacked together in the order shown in the drawing toward the -Z direction.

[0084] The first plate-shaped portion 10111 has a first plate surface 10111a as a first main surface and a second plate surface 10111b as a second main surface opposite the first plate surface 10111a. The first plate surface 10111a is located closer to the +Z direction than the second plate surface 10111b. The second member 1012 has a third plate surface 1012a as a third main surface and a fourth plate surface 1012b as a fourth main surface opposite the third plate surface 1012a. The third plate surface 1012a is located closer to the +Z direction than the fourth plate surface 1012b.

[0085] The first plate-shaped portion 10111 and the second member 1012 are, for example, in a state in which a portion of the third plate surface 1012a is joined to the second plate surface 10111b. As a result, the first member 1011 and the second member 1012 form an integrated first portion 101. Any welding method, such as ultrasonic welding, laser welding, heat welding, or diffusion welding, can be used to join the first plate-shaped portion 10111 and the second member 1012. In the configuration of the first portion 101, the first plate surface 10111a is the first upper surface 101a, and the fourth plate surface 1012b is the first lower surface 101b. The flow channels 1131 and 1141 are each located between the second plate surface 10111b and the third plate surface 1012a.

[0086] The first introduction hole 121 and the hole portion 11321, and the second introduction hole 122 and the hole portion 11421 each penetrate the first plate-shaped portion 10111. The through hole 1241 and the through hole 1251 each penetrate the first plate-shaped portion 10111 and the second member 1012 along the -Z direction. More specifically, the through hole 1241 is a single through hole in which a through hole penetrating the first plate-shaped portion 10111 along the -Z direction and a through hole penetrating the second member 1012 along the -Z direction are connected in the -Z direction. The through hole 1251 is a single through hole in which a through hole penetrating the first plate-shaped portion 10111 along the -Z direction and a through hole penetrating the second member 1012 along the -Z direction are connected in the -Z direction. In other words, the first plate-shaped portion 10111 has a through hole that forms a part of the through hole 1241 and a through hole that forms a part of the through hole 1251. The second member 1012 has a through hole that forms a part of the through hole 1241 and a through hole that forms a part of the through hole 1251.

[0087] The recessed portion 1231r may be, for example, a recessed portion in the first plate surface 10111a of the first plate-shaped portion 10111. In this case, the first plate-shaped portion 10111 has a recessed portion corresponding to the recessed portion 1231r. Furthermore, the recessed portion 1231r may be, for example, a portion having an inner circumferential surface of a through-hole penetrating the first plate-shaped portion 10111 and a bottom surface formed by the third plate surface 1012a of the second member 1012. In this case, the first plate-shaped portion 10111 has a through-hole that forms the recessed portion 1231r.

[0088] Each of the first member 1011 and the second member 1012 may be produced by, for example, resin molding. The second member 1012 may be produced by, for example, forming two through holes 1241, 1251 by punching or the like in a flat plate-shaped member formed by resin molding. The material of the first portion 101 (the material forming the first portion 101) may be, for example, a resin such as cycloolefin polymer (COP), acrylic resin, or polycarbonate (PC). The acrylic resin may be, for example, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

[0089] <<<An example of the second part configuration>>> 13 , second portion 102 has through hole 11422, through hole 11322, through hole 1232, through hole 1242, and through hole 1252. Through hole 11422 constitutes a part of hole portion 1142. Through hole 11322 constitutes a part of hole portion 1132. Through hole 1232 constitutes a part of first discharge hole 123. Through hole 1242 constitutes a part of second discharge hole 124. Through hole 1252 constitutes a part of third discharge hole 125.

[0090] The second portion 102 may be produced by, for example, resin molding, or may be produced by forming five through holes 11422, 11322, 1232, 1242, and 1252 in a flat plate-shaped member formed by resin molding by punching or the like. The material of the second portion 102 (the material forming the second portion 102) may be, for example, a resin such as silicone resin.

[0091] <<<An example of the third part configuration>>> 14, for example, third portion 103 has, on third lower surface 103b, minute irregularities corresponding to a portion of the pattern of flow path portion 11, hole portions 1243 that form part of second discharge holes 124, and hole portions 1253 that form part of third discharge holes 125. In one example of the first embodiment, third portion 103 has through holes 1233 that form part of first discharge holes 123. Through holes 1233 penetrate third portion 103 from third lower surface 103b to third upper surface 103a. In the example of Figure 14, a portion of the flow path section 11 includes a main flow path 111, multiple branch flow paths 112, a hole portion 11323 and flow path 1133 that form part of the first inlet flow path 113, a hole portion 11423 and flow path 1143 that form part of the second inlet flow path 114, a first outlet flow path 115, a second outlet flow path 116, and a third outlet flow path 117.

[0092] The third portion 103 can be produced by, for example, resin molding. For example, a resin such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is used as the material of the third portion 103 (the material forming the third portion 103). PDMS has excellent transferability when performing resin molding using a mold. Transferability is the property of forming fine irregularities in the resin molded product according to the fine pattern of the mold.

[0093] Here, for example, the second lower surface 102b and the third upper surface 103a of the second portion 102 are joined together in such a manner that the third lower surface 103b of the third portion 103 has fine irregularities corresponding to the pattern of part of the flow path portion 11, thereby forming part of the flow path portion 11. This part of the flow path portion 11 is located, for example, along the XY plane.

[0094] For example, if the second portion 102 is made of silicone resin and the third portion 103 is made of PDMS, both the second portion 102 and the third portion 103 will be highly flexible. For example, if the first portion 101 is made of a highly rigid resin such as COP, acrylic resin, or PC, the flexibility of the second portion 102 and the third portion 103 bonded to the first portion 101 will be reduced. This will prevent the function of the flow path device 100 from being impaired. Furthermore, if the first portion 101 is made of a highly rigid resin and has the first inlet 1o and the second inlet 2o, the function of the flow path device 100 will not be impaired even if a liquid is introduced at high pressure into each of the first inlet 1o and the second inlet 2o. Furthermore, for example, when PC is used as the material for the first portion 101 and PDMS is used as the material for the third portion 103, if the second portion 102 made of silicone resin is interposed between the first portion 101 and the third portion 103, the PC and PDMS, which are not easily bonded directly, can be indirectly bonded.

[0095] <<1st liquid supply section>> The first liquid supply unit 2 has, for example, a function of supplying the first liquid L1 to the flow path unit 11. In other words, the first liquid supply unit 2 has, for example, a mechanism for supplying the first liquid L1 to the flow path unit 11. In the examples of FIGS. 6 to 8, the first liquid supply unit 2 is located on the +Z direction side of the main body unit 1, which is the first direction.

[0096] The first fluid supply section 2 includes a first cylindrical section 21 and a first movable member 22.

[0097] As shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 10, and 11, the first cylindrical portion 21 protrudes in the +Z direction (first direction) from the upper surface 1a, which is the surface of the outer surface 1s of the main body 1 on the +Z direction side (first direction). The first cylindrical portion 21 has an inner space (also referred to as a first internal space) 21is. The first cylindrical portion 21 has an inner surface (also referred to as a first inner circumferential surface) 21d. The first internal space 21is is a space surrounded by the first inner circumferential surface 21d. The first inner circumferential surface 21d and the first internal space 21is may each extend along the +Z direction (first direction), for example. The first cylindrical portion 21 may be a cylindrical portion having various shapes, such as a cylindrical, elliptical, or rectangular cylindrical shape.

[0098] The first internal space 21is is connected to the first inlet 1o. For example, an end of the first internal space 21is in the −Z direction (the second direction) is connected to the first inlet 1o. The first cylindrical portion 21 has a portion (also referred to as a first opening) 21o where the first internal space 21is opens, for example, at an end in the +Z direction (the first direction). The area of ​​a cross section of the first internal space 21is perpendicular to the −Z direction (the second direction) is larger than the area of ​​the first inlet 1o. The end of the first cylindrical portion 21 in the −Z direction (the second direction) is closed by the upper surface 1a of the main body 1, except for the portion connected to the first inlet 1o. In other words, the main body 1 and the first cylindrical portion 21 form a bottomed container (tank) capable of storing liquid.

[0099] The first movable member 22 is fitted inside the first cylindrical portion 21. The first movable member 22 may be fitted inside the first cylindrical portion 21 in a state in which it can slide relative to the first cylindrical portion 21 in the −Z direction, which is the second direction. Here, the first movable member 22 includes a portion located in the first internal space 21is. A portion of the first movable member 22 in the +Z direction may be located outside the first internal space 21is, or the entire first movable member 22 may be located within the first internal space 21is. The first internal space 21is includes a space 2sp (also referred to as a first liquid storage space or a first space) located between the first movable member 22 and the main body portion 1. In other words, the first space 2sp is located between the first movable member 22 and the main body portion 1 within the first internal space 21is. The first space 2sp functions as a space capable of storing, for example, the first liquid L1.

[0100] The first movable member 22 has, for example, a surface (also referred to as a fourth upper surface) 22a located on the +Z direction side as a first direction, a surface (also referred to as a fourth lower surface) 22b located on the −Z direction side as a second direction, and an outer peripheral surface (also referred to as a first outer peripheral surface) 22c connecting the fourth upper surface 22a and the fourth lower surface 22b. Here, the first space 2sp may be a space located on the −Z direction side as the second direction of the fourth lower surface 22b of the first movable member 22 within the first internal space 21is.

[0101] The first movable member 22 includes, for example, a first elastic portion 221. The first elastic portion 221 is an elastic portion. The first elastic portion 221 is in contact with the first inner circumferential surface 21d of the first cylindrical portion 21. For example, a portion of the first elastic portion 221 that forms the first outer circumferential surface 22c is in close contact with the first inner circumferential surface 21d of the first cylindrical portion 21. The first movable member 22 may be entirely formed of the first elastic portion 221, or only a portion of the first movable member 22 may be formed of the first elastic portion 221. The first elastic portion 221 may be formed of, for example, rubber such as silicone rubber, or a resin having rubber elasticity such as an elastomer. If the first movable member 22 is formed of resin, the first movable member 22 may be manufactured, for example, by resin molding. The first movable member 22 can slide along the -Z direction as the second direction relative to the first cylindrical portion 21 while fitted inside the first cylindrical portion 21 by being pushed from the +Z direction as the first direction toward the -Z direction as the second direction.

[0102] The first movable member 22 has a first liquid introduction section (also referred to as a first introduction section) 222. The first introduction section 222 is a section for introducing the first liquid L1 from a space (also referred to as an external space) 200 outside the flow path device 100 into the first space 2sp. In an example of the first embodiment, the first introduction section 222 is, for example, a through-hole (also referred to as a first through-hole) 222p. The first through-hole 222p may penetrate the first movable member 22 in a form connecting the external space 200 and the first space 2sp. From another perspective, the first through-hole 222p may penetrate the first movable member 22 from the fourth upper surface 22a to the fourth lower surface 22b. In this case, the first liquid L1 can be easily injected from the external space 200 into the first space 2sp through the first through-hole 222p. The cross section of the first through-hole 222p perpendicular to the −Z direction may have various shapes, such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a polygonal shape.

[0103] In the first liquid supply unit 2, for example, with the first liquid L1 stored in the first space 2sp, pressure can be applied to the first liquid L1 in the first space 2sp by pushing and moving the first movable member 22 in the -Z direction while blocking the first introduction part 222 from the +Z direction side. This allows the first liquid L1 to be introduced from within the first space 2sp into the first introduction channel 113 via the first introduction hole 121. As a result, the first liquid L1 can be supplied from within the first space 2sp to the first upstream section 111u of the main channel 111 via the first introduction hole 121 and the first introduction channel 113. In other words, the first liquid supply unit 2 can supply the first liquid L1 to the first upstream section 111u of the main channel 111 via the first introduction hole 121 and the first introduction channel 113.

[0104] <<Second liquid supply section>> The second liquid supply unit 3 has, for example, a function of supplying the second liquid L2 to the flow path unit 11. In other words, the second liquid supply unit 3 has, for example, a mechanism for supplying the second liquid L2 to the flow path unit 11. In the examples of FIGS. 6 to 8, the second liquid supply unit 3 is located on the +Z direction side of the main body unit 1, which is the first direction.

[0105] The second fluid supply section 3 includes a second cylindrical section 31 and a second movable member 32.

[0106] As shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 10, and 12, the second cylindrical portion 31 protrudes in the +Z direction (first direction) from the upper surface 1a, which is the surface of the outer surface 1s of the main body 1 on the +Z direction side (first direction). The second cylindrical portion 31 has an inner space (also referred to as a second internal space) 31is. The second cylindrical portion 31 has an inner surface (also referred to as a second inner peripheral surface) 31d. The second internal space 31is is a space surrounded by the second inner peripheral surface 31d. The second inner peripheral surface 31d and the second internal space 31is may each extend along the +Z direction (first direction), for example. The second cylindrical portion 31 may be a cylindrical portion having various shapes, such as a cylindrical, elliptical, or rectangular cylindrical shape.

[0107] The second internal space 31is is connected to the second inlet 2o. For example, the end of the second internal space 31is in the -Z direction (the second direction) is connected to the second inlet 2o. The second cylindrical portion 31 has a portion (also referred to as a second opening) 31o where the second internal space 31is opens, for example, at the end in the +Z direction (the first direction). The area of ​​a cross section of the second internal space 31is perpendicular to the -Z direction (the second direction) is larger than the area of ​​the second inlet 2o. The end of the second cylindrical portion 31 in the -Z direction (the second direction) is closed by the upper surface 1a of the main body 1, except for the portion connected to the second inlet 2o. In other words, the main body 1 and the second cylindrical portion 31 form a bottomed container (tank) capable of storing liquid.

[0108] The second movable member 32 is fitted inside the second cylindrical portion 31. The second movable member 32 may be fitted inside the second cylindrical portion 31 in a state in which it can slide relative to the second cylindrical portion 31 in the −Z direction, which is the second direction. Here, the second movable member 32 includes a portion located in the second internal space 31is. A portion of the second movable member 32 in the +Z direction may be located outside the second internal space 31is, or the entire second movable member 32 may be located within the second internal space 31is. The second internal space 31is includes a space 3sp (also referred to as a second liquid storage space or second space) located between the second movable member 32 and the main body portion 1. In other words, the second space 3sp is located between the second movable member 32 and the main body portion 1 within the second internal space 31is. The second space 3sp functions as a space capable of storing, for example, the second liquid L2.

[0109] The second movable member 32 has, for example, a surface (also referred to as a fifth upper surface) 32a located on the +Z direction side as the first direction, a surface (also referred to as a fifth lower surface) 32b located on the −Z direction side as the second direction, and an outer peripheral surface (also referred to as a second outer peripheral surface) 32c connecting the fifth upper surface 32a and the fifth lower surface 32b. Here, the second space 3sp may be a space located on the −Z direction side as the second direction of the fifth lower surface 32b of the second movable member 32 within the second internal space 31is.

[0110] The second movable member 32 includes, for example, a second elastic portion 321. The second elastic portion 321 is an elastic portion. The second elastic portion 321 is in contact with the second inner circumferential surface 31d of the second cylindrical portion 31. For example, a portion of the second elastic portion 321 that forms the second outer circumferential surface 32c is in close contact with the second inner circumferential surface 31d of the second cylindrical portion 31. The second movable member 32 may be entirely formed of the second elastic portion 321, or only a portion of the second movable member 32 may be formed of the second elastic portion 321. As with the first elastic portion 221, the second elastic portion 321 may be formed of, for example, a rubber such as silicone rubber or a resin having rubber elasticity such as an elastomer. If the second movable member 32 is formed of a resin, the second movable member 32 may be manufactured, for example, by resin molding. The second movable member 32 can slide along the -Z direction as the second direction relative to the second cylindrical portion 31 while fitted inside the second cylindrical portion 31 by being pushed from the +Z direction as the first direction toward the -Z direction as the second direction.

[0111] The second movable member 32 has a second liquid introduction section (also referred to as a second introduction section) 322. The second introduction section 322 is a section for introducing the second liquid L2 from the external space 200 of the flow channel device 100 into the second space 3sp. In one example of the first embodiment, the second introduction section 322 is, for example, a through-hole (also referred to as a second through-hole) 322p. The second through-hole 322p may penetrate the second movable member 32 in a manner connecting the external space 200 and the second space 3sp. From another perspective, the second through-hole 322p may penetrate the second movable member 32 from the fifth upper surface 32a to the fifth lower surface 32b. In this case, the second liquid L2 can be easily injected from the external space 200 into the second space 3sp through the second through-hole 322p. The cross section of the second through-hole 322p perpendicular to the -Z direction may have various shapes, such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a polygonal shape.

[0112] In the second liquid supply unit 3, for example, with the second liquid L2 stored in the second space 3sp, pressure can be applied to the second liquid L2 in the second space 3sp by pushing and moving the second movable member 32 in the -Z direction while blocking the second introduction part 322 from the +Z direction side. This allows the second liquid L2 to be introduced from the second space 3sp into the second introduction channel 114 via the second introduction hole 122. As a result, the second liquid L2 can be supplied from the second space 3sp to the first upstream section 111u of the main channel 111 via the second introduction hole 122 and the second introduction channel 114. In other words, the second liquid supply unit 3 can supply the second liquid L2 to the first upstream section 111u of the main channel 111 via the second introduction hole 122 and the second introduction channel 114.

[0113] <<An example of the general function of the flow path section>> The function of the flow path section 11 will be roughly explained below.

[0114] Here, for example, it is assumed that the first liquid L1 introduced into the flow path section 11 contains a plurality of particles of a plurality of types, including a plurality of first particles P100 and a plurality of second particles P200 (see FIG. 16).

[0115] The flow path section 11 has a function of, for example, separating and extracting a plurality of first particles P100 of a particular type from a plurality of second particles P200 of another type from the first liquid L1. Here, the plurality of types of particles contained in the first liquid L1 may be three or more types of particles. The following describes an example in which the first particles P100 and the second particles P200 are each one type of particle.

[0116] A first liquid L1 is introduced into the flow path section 11 through a first introduction hole 121. A second liquid L2, which serves as a pressing liquid, is introduced into the flow path section 11 through a second introduction hole 122. The function of the second liquid L2 will be described later.

[0117] For example, the first liquid L1 introduced into the flow path section 11 from the first introduction hole 121 flows into the first upstream section 111u of the main flow path 111 via the first introduction flow path 113. In other words, the first introduction hole 121 serves as a hole for introducing the first liquid L1 into the main flow path 111. The first introduction flow path 113 serves as a flow path for introducing the first liquid L1 into the main flow path 111.

[0118] For example, the second liquid L2 introduced into the flow path section 11 from the second introduction hole 122 flows into the first upstream section 111u of the main flow path 111 via the second introduction flow path 114. In other words, the second introduction hole 122 serves as a hole for introducing the second liquid L2 into the main flow path 111. The second introduction flow path 114 serves as a flow path for introducing the second liquid L2 into the main flow path 111.

[0119] In FIG. 16, the arrow Fp1 drawn with a two-dot chain line indicates the direction in which the second liquid L2 flows. This direction is along the fifth direction (for example, the -X direction). In FIG. 16, the arrow Fm1 drawn with a two-dot chain line thicker than the arrow Fp1 indicates the direction in which the main flow (also referred to as the mainstream) of the first liquid L1 flowing from the first introduction channel 113 through the main channel 111 flows. The direction in which this mainstream flows is along the fourth direction (for example, the -Y direction). In FIG. 16, the rectangle drawn with a thin two-dot chain line virtually indicates the outer edge of the first upstream section 111u.

[0120] 16 schematically illustrates how the first particles P100 and the second particles P200 are separated from each other when the diameter of the first particles P100 is larger than the diameter of the second particles P200. In the example of FIG. 16, the width of each of the branch channels 112 is larger than the diameter of the second particles P200 and smaller than the diameter of the first particles P100. Here, the width of the branch channel 112 may be the length of the branch channel 112 along the fourth direction (e.g., the -Y direction). In other words, the first liquid L1 contains multiple types of particles, including multiple first particles P100 each having a diameter larger than the width of each of the branch channels 112, and multiple second particles P200 each having a diameter smaller than the width of each of the branch channels 112.

[0121] At least the width of each of the main channel 111 and the first inlet channel 113 is larger than the diameter of either the first particle P100 or the second particle P200. Here, the width of the main channel 111 is the length of the main channel 111 along the fifth direction (e.g., the −X direction). The width of the first inlet channel 113 is the length of the first inlet channel 113 along the fifth direction (e.g., the −X direction) in the vicinity of the main channel 111. The width of the first inlet channel 113 is the length of the first inlet channel 113 along the fourth direction (e.g., the −Y direction) at a position where the first inlet channel 113 extends along the sixth direction (e.g., the +X direction).

[0122] Each of the second particles P200 moves in the main channel 111 in a fourth direction (e.g., the −Y direction) from the first upstream section 111u to the first downstream section 111d, and is subjected to a force pressing in a fifth direction (e.g., the −X direction), whereby most of the second particles P200 are introduced into one of the branch channels 112. Most of the second particles P200 contained in the first liquid L1 can be discharged via one of the branch channels 112 and further via the second discharge channel 116 to the outside of the channel device 100 from the second discharge hole 124. Here, the cross-sectional area and length of each of the branch channels 112 connected to the main channel 111 are adjusted, so that the second particles P200 are introduced from the main channel 111 into one of the branch channels 112 and separated from the first particles P100. In the present disclosure, the cross section of the flow channel may be a virtual cross section of the flow channel along a virtual plane perpendicular to the direction in which the flow channel extends. The liquid containing the plurality of second particles P200 discharged from the second discharge hole 124 to the outside of the flow channel device 100 may be subjected to a specific process in another device connected to the second discharge hole 124 directly or via one or more other members such as a pipe, or may simply be collected. The liquid containing the plurality of second particles P200 discharged from the second discharge hole 124 to the outside of the flow channel device 100 may be discarded, for example, directly or via one or more other members such as a pipe.

[0123] The plurality of first particles P100 move from the first upstream section 111u to the first downstream section 111d within the main channel 111 without being introduced into the plurality of branch channels 112. Most of the plurality of first particles P100 flow from the main channel 111 into the first discharge channel 115. Here, the width of the first discharge channel 115 is greater than that of the first particles P100. Then, by the same action as when the plurality of second particles P200 are introduced into one of the plurality of branch channels 112 in the main channel 111, the plurality of first particles P100 that have reached the first downstream section 111d flow into the first discharge channel 115 rather than the third discharge channel 117. Here, for example, if the flow path device 100 is arranged with the upper surface 1a of the main body 1 facing upward, the liquid containing the plurality of first particles P100 that has passed through the main flow path 111 and the first discharge flow path 115 in order is discharged from the first discharge hole 123 into the space within the recessed portion 1231r. The recessed portion 1231r functions as a container for storing liquid. The liquid containing the plurality of first particles P100 that has accumulated in the space within the recessed portion 1231r (also referred to as the liquid to be recovered) can be recovered by, for example, inserting a pipette or a tubular member that penetrates the first discharge hole 123, and suctioning the liquid to be recovered with the pipette or the tubular member.

[0124] The composition of the first liquid L1 excluding the plurality of second particles P200 flowing into any of the plurality of branch flow paths 112 and the plurality of first particles P100 flowing into the first discharge flow path 115 (also referred to as the remaining composition) flows into the third discharge flow path 117. This remaining composition can be discharged from the third discharge hole 125 to the outside of the flow path device 100 via the third discharge flow path 117. Here, the liquid containing the remaining composition discharged from the third discharge hole 125 to the outside of the flow path device 100 may be subjected to a specific process in another device connected to the third discharge hole 125 directly or via one or more other members such as a pipe, or may simply be collected. The liquid containing the remaining composition discharged from the third discharge hole 125 to the outside of the flow path device 100 may be discarded, for example, directly or via one or more other members such as a pipe.

[0125] In one example of the first embodiment, a flow (also referred to as an introduction flow) that introduces liquid into each of the multiple branch channels 112 is used. The introduction flow can contribute to separation of the multiple first particles P100 and the multiple second particles P200 by the main channel 111 and the multiple branch channels 112. The introduction flow is schematically shown in FIG. 16 by the region Af1 with matte hatching. The state of the introduction flow shown in the region Af1 in FIG. 16 is merely an example and can change depending on the relationship between the flow velocity and flow rate of the first liquid L1 introduced from the first introduction channel 113 to the first upstream section 111u of the main channel 111 and the flow velocity and flow rate of the second liquid L2 introduced from the second introduction channel 114 to the first upstream section 111u of the main channel 111. By appropriately adjusting the region Af1, the multiple first particles P100 and the multiple second particles P200 can be efficiently separated from the first liquid L1. In the main channel 111, the second liquid L2 presses the first liquid L1 toward the branch channels 112 in a fifth direction (e.g., the −X direction) from the side opposite the branch channels 112. In other words, the second liquid L2 serves as a liquid (pressing liquid) for pressing the plurality of first particles P100 and the plurality of second particles P200, which are the plurality of types of particles, against a side surface (first side surface) of the main channel 111 in the fifth direction (e.g., the −X direction). The second liquid L2 can contribute to the generation of an introduction flow.

[0126] In one example of the first embodiment, as described above, the main channel 111 extends in a direction along the fourth direction (e.g., the −Y direction). The portion of the first inlet channel 113 that is connected to the first upstream portion 111u of the main channel 111 extends along the fourth direction (e.g., the −Y direction). Each of the multiple branch channels 112 opens at a side surface (first side surface) of the main channel 111 that faces in the fifth direction (e.g., the −X direction) between the first upstream portion 111u and the first downstream portion 111d. The second inlet channel 114 opens at a side surface (second side surface) of the first upstream portion 111u of the main channel 111 that faces in the sixth direction (e.g., the +X direction).

[0127] For this reason, by supplying the first liquid L1 containing multiple types of particles to the main channel 111 via the first inlet hole 121 while supplying the second liquid L2 to the main channel 111 via the second inlet hole 122, a liquid flow can be generated in the main channel 111 that presses the multiple types of particles toward the multiple branch channels 112. In other words, for example, by introducing the second liquid L2 from the second inlet hole 122 to the first upstream section 111u via the second inlet channel 114 while introducing the first liquid L1 from the first inlet hole 121 to the first upstream section 111u via the first inlet channel 113, the multiple types of particles contained in the first liquid L1, i.e., the multiple first particles P100 and the multiple second particles P200, can be made to flow toward the first downstream section 111d in the main channel 111 while being pressed toward the multiple branch channels 112. This makes it easier for, for example, the plurality of second particles P200 having diameters smaller than the widths of the branch flow channels 112, among the plurality of first particles P100 and the plurality of second particles P200 as the plurality of particles of the plurality of types, to flow into the plurality of branch flow channels 112. As a result, for example, it becomes easier to separate the plurality of first particles P100 having diameters larger than the widths of the plurality of branch flow channels 112 and the plurality of second particles P200 having diameters smaller than the widths of the plurality of branch flow channels 112, among the plurality of first particles P100 and the plurality of second particles P200 as the plurality of particles of the plurality of types in the first liquid L1.

[0128] Furthermore, in one example of the first embodiment, as described above, the portion of the first discharge flow path 115 that is connected to the first downstream portion 111d of the main flow path 111 opens on a side surface (first side surface) of the first downstream portion 111d in the fifth direction (e.g., the −X direction). Therefore, for example, the action of the introduction flow in the main flow path 111 makes it easier for the plurality of first particles P100 to flow into the first discharge flow path 115. This allows, for example, the plurality of first particles P100 to be easily discharged from the first discharge hole 123 into the recessed portion 1231r via the first discharge flow path 115. As a result, for example, it becomes easier to separate the plurality of first particles P100 from the plurality of second particles P200.

[0129] 16, the width of the introduction flow in the main channel 111 is shown as width (also referred to as first width) Wd1 near the region where the main channel 111 branches into the multiple branch channels 112. Here, the width of the introduction flow in the main channel 111 is the length of the introduction flow along the fifth direction (e.g., the −X direction). The first width Wd1 can be set, for example, by adjusting the cross-sectional areas and lengths of the main channel 111 and the multiple branch channels 112 and adjusting the flow rates of the first liquid L1 and the second liquid L2.

[0130] 16, the first width Wd1 is illustrated as a width in which the center of gravity of each of the plurality of first particles P100 is not included in the region Af1 of the inlet flow, but the center of gravity of each of the plurality of second particles P200 is included. Here, because the first width Wd1 is a width in which the center of gravity of the second particles P200 is included in the region Af1 of the inlet flow, a force acting on the second particles P200 by the inlet flow to cause them to flow into the branch flow channel 112 is effectively applied. Therefore, the second particles P200 may flow into the branch flow channel 112, which has a width larger than the diameter of the second particles P200. In contrast, because the first width Wd1 is a width in which the center of gravity of the first particles P100 is not included in the region Af1 of the inlet flow, a force acting on the first particles P100 by the inlet flow to cause them to flow into the branch flow channel 112 is not sufficiently applied. Therefore, for example, even if the width of each of the multiple branch channels 112 is somewhat larger than the diameter of the first particle P100, the first particle P100 can flow through the main channel 111 without flowing into the multiple branch channels 112.

[0131] Here, for example, when blood is used as the first liquid L1, an example is adopted in which the first particles P100 are white blood cells and the second particles P200 are red blood cells. In this case, PBS may be used as an example of the second liquid L2, or a liquid in which other components are added to PBS may be used. The other components may include EDTA as a second component and BSA as a third component. Here, the main channel 111 and the multiple branch channels 112 included in the channel section 11 function as channels for separating particles in the blood. In other words, the channel section 11 has multiple channels including the main channel 111 and the multiple branch channels 112 for separating particles in the blood.

[0132] The center of gravity of a red blood cell is, for example, about 2 micrometers (μm) to 2.5 μm from the outer edge of the red blood cell. The maximum diameter of a red blood cell is, for example, about 6 μm to 8 μm. The center of gravity of a white blood cell is, for example, about 5 μm to 10 μm from the outer edge of the white blood cell. The maximum diameter of a white blood cell is, for example, about 10 μm to 30 μm. From the viewpoint of separating red blood cells and white blood cells in blood, a value of, for example, about 2 μm to 15 μm is adopted as the first width Wd1 of the introduction flow.

[0133] The cross-sectional area of ​​a virtual cross section of the main channel 111 perpendicular to the fourth direction (for example, the −Y direction) is, for example, 400 square micrometers (μm 2 ) to 3000 μm 2 The length (also referred to as width) of the main flow channel 111 along the fifth direction (e.g., the −X direction) may be, for example, about 20 μm to 40 μm. The length (also referred to as height) of the main flow channel 111 along the first direction (+Z direction) may be, for example, about 20 μm to 100 μm. The length of the main flow channel 111 along the fourth direction (e.g., the −Y direction) may be, for example, about 0.5 mm to 20 mm.

[0134] The cross-sectional area of ​​a virtual cross section perpendicular to the fifth direction (for example, the −X direction) of each of the branch channels 112 is, for example, 100 μm 2 to 500 μm 2The length (also referred to as width) of each of the plurality of branch flow paths 112 along the fourth direction (e.g., the -Y direction) may be, for example, about 8 μm to 10 μm. The length (also referred to as height) of each of the plurality of branch flow paths 112 along the first direction (+Z direction) may be, for example, about 20 μm to 80 μm. The length of each of the plurality of branch flow paths 112 along the fifth direction (e.g., the -X direction) may be, for example, about 3 mm to 25 mm.

[0135] <1-1-2-2. Example of installation configuration> The installation unit 72 may have a structure that allows the flow channel device 100 to be held in a predetermined position by the installation unit 72. The predetermined position of the flow channel device 100 may be, for example, a position in which the upper surface 1a of the flow channel device 100 faces upward. The installation unit 72 may have a structure that allows a nozzle tip portion 731t of a nozzle unit 731 (described later) to be inserted into each of the first introduction unit 222 of the first liquid supply unit 2 and the second introduction unit 322 of the second liquid supply unit 3 when the flow channel device 100 is installed on the installation unit 72. The installation unit 72 may have a structure that allows a pressing unit 74 to press each of the first movable member 22 of the first liquid supply unit 2 and the second movable member 32 of the second liquid supply unit 3 toward the main body 1 when the flow channel device 100 is installed on the installation unit 72. Furthermore, the installation section 72 may have a structure that, for example, when the flow path device 100 is installed on this installation section 72, can discharge liquid from the second discharge outlet 4o of the second discharge hole 124 and can discharge liquid from the third discharge outlet 5o of the third discharge hole 125.

[0136] Therefore, for example, there are no special restrictions on the structure of the installation section 72 as long as it has a structure that can stably hold the flow path device 100 in a predetermined posture, a structure that can insert the nozzle tip portion 731t into each of the first inlet portion 222 and the second inlet portion 322 of the flow path device 100 installed on this installation section 72, a structure that can press each of the first movable member 22 and the second movable member 32 of the flow path device 100 installed on this installation section 72 toward the main body section 1 with the pressing section 74, and a structure that can discharge liquid from each of the second outlet 4o and the third outlet 5o of the flow path device 100 installed on this installation section 72.

[0137] Furthermore, the installation section 72 may have a structure that allows a pipette or a tubular member to be inserted into the first discharge hole 123 in a state where the flow path device 100 is installed on the installation section 72, for example.

[0138] Fig. 17 is a plan view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the installation section 72. Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a virtual cross section of the installation section 72 viewed in the +X direction at position XVIII-XVIII in Fig. 17. Fig. 19 is a plan view schematically showing an example of a state in which the flow path device 100 is installed on the installation section 72. Note that the configuration of the installation section 72 is not limited to the examples shown in Figs. 17 to 19.

[0139] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the installation section 72 includes, for example, a placing section 721, a frame-shaped section 722, a first holding mechanism 723, and a second holding mechanism 724.

[0140] The mounting portion 721 is a portion on which the fluid path device 100 is mounted. The mounting portion 721 may be fixed to or connected to, for example, the base portion 70. In FIG. 18, an example of a portion of the base portion 70 to which the mounting portion 721 is fixed is schematically shown by a thin two-dot chain line. The mounting portion 721 has, for example, an upwardly facing flat upper surface 721u. The upper surface 721u may be a portion on which the fluid path device 100 is mounted. The mounting portion 721 may have, for example, a portion (also referred to as a recess) 721r that is recessed below the upper surface 721u for the purpose of arranging other portions of the installation portion 72. In the example of FIGS. 17 and 18, the mounting portion 721 has three recesses 721r: a first recess 721r1, a second recess 721r2, and a third recess 721r3. In a plan view, the first recess 721r1 is located along the center in the +X direction of the end portion in the +Y direction of the mounting portion 721. In a plan view, the second recess 721r2 is located along the center in the +X direction of the end portion in the -Y direction of the mounting portion 721. In a plan view, the third recess 721r3 is located along the center in the +Y direction of the end portion in the -X direction of the mounting portion 721. The material of the mounting portion 721 may be, for example, a metal or resin having a certain degree of strength.

[0141] The frame-shaped portion 722 is a portion for laterally holding the fluid channel device 100 placed on the upper surface 721u of the mounting portion 721. The frame-shaped portion 722 may be positioned, for example, in a manner that laterally surrounds a space (also referred to as an installation space) 72s in which the fluid channel device 100 is placed on the mounting portion 721. FIG. 18 schematically shows an example of the outer edge of the first portion 101 of the fluid channel device 100 in a state in which the fluid channel device 100 is placed on the upper surface 721u of the mounting portion 721 by a thin two-dot chain line. The frame-shaped portion 722 may be positioned, for example, in a manner that protrudes upward from the upper surface 721u of the mounting portion 721. The frame-shaped portion 722 may have a structure that surrounds the installation space 72s with a plurality of portions when viewed from above. In the example of FIGS. 17 and 18, the frame-shaped portion 722 has four portions 7221 to 7224 that are L-shaped when viewed from above. The material of the frame-shaped portion 722 may be, for example, a metal or resin having a certain degree of strength.

[0142] The first holding mechanism 723 and the second holding mechanism 724 are mechanisms that hold, from above, the outer periphery of the flow channel device 100 placed on the upper surface 721u of the mounting section 721. The first holding mechanism 723 and the second holding mechanism 724 are positioned so as to sandwich the installation space 72s in the horizontal direction. As a result, as shown in FIG. 19 , the flow channel device 100 placed on the upper surface 721u of the mounting section 721 can be placed in a state in which it is sandwiched between the first holding mechanism 723 and the second holding mechanism 724.

[0143] The first holding mechanism 723 may be positioned, for example, in a manner protruding upward from above the mounting portion 721. In the example of FIGS. 17 and 18, the first holding mechanism 723 is positioned in a manner protruding upward from the first recess 721r1. The first holding mechanism 723 has, for example, a first plate-shaped portion 723e and a first protrusion 723f. The first plate-shaped portion 723e is a plate-shaped portion positioned in a manner protruding upward from above the mounting portion 721 along the installation space 72s. In the example of FIGS. 17 and 18, the first plate-shaped portion 723e is positioned in a manner protruding upward from the first recess 721r1. The first protrusion 723f is a portion that protrudes from the upper portion of the first plate-shaped portion 723e along the installation space 72s toward the second holding mechanism 724.

[0144] The second holding mechanism 724 may be positioned, for example, in a manner protruding upward from above the mounting portion 721. In the example of FIGS. 17 and 18, the second holding mechanism 724 is positioned in a manner protruding upward from the second recess 721r2. The second holding mechanism 724 has, for example, a second plate-shaped portion 724e and a second protrusion 724f. The second plate-shaped portion 724e is a plate-shaped portion positioned in a manner protruding upward from above the mounting portion 721 along the installation space 72s. In the example of FIGS. 17 and 18, the second plate-shaped portion 724e is positioned in a manner protruding upward from the second recess 721r2. The second protrusion 724f is a portion that protrudes from the upper portion of the second plate-shaped portion 724e along the installation space 72s toward the first holding mechanism 723.

[0145] Here, for example, each of the first plate-shaped portion 723e and the second plate-shaped portion 724e may be configured with a structure or material that allows it to bend by elastic deformation in a direction away from the installation space 72s, with a portion fixed to the mounting portion 721 as a fulcrum. In this case, for example, when the flow path device 100 is inserted into the installation space 72s from above, each of the first plate-shaped portion 723e and the second plate-shaped portion 724e may bend in a direction away from the installation space 72s. Then, when the flow path device 100 is mounted on the mounting portion 721, the first plate-shaped portion 723e and the second plate-shaped portion 724e return to their original shapes by elastic deformation, and the first protrusion 723f and the second protrusion 724f may catch on the outer periphery of the upper surface 1a of the main body 1 of the flow path device 100. As a result, for example, as shown in FIG. 19, the flow channel device 100 placed on the upper surface 721u of the mounting portion 721 can be installed in a state in which it is held by the first holding mechanism 723 and the second holding mechanism 724.

[0146] 19, when the flow path device 100 is installed on the installation section 72, the first liquid supply section 2 and the second liquid supply section 3 may be aligned in a third direction perpendicular to the second direction when the particle separation device 7 is viewed from above in the −Z direction as the second direction. In other words, the installation section 72 has a structure in which the flow path device 100 is installed such that the first liquid supply section 2 and the second liquid supply section 3 are aligned in the third direction when the particle separation device 7 is viewed from above in the −Z direction as the second direction. In the example of FIG. 19, the third direction is the +X direction.

[0147] The installation section 72 may include a flow path 726 that is connectable to the second discharge hole 124 at the second discharge port 4o, for example, by installing the flow path device 100 on the installation section 72. The flow path 726 may be configured with one or more members, such as tubular members. The flow path 726 may have a first pad 726p at an upper end of the flow path 726. For example, by installing the flow path device 100 on the installation section 72, the first pad 726p may be able to come into close contact with the periphery of the second discharge port 4o on the underside 1b of the flow path device 100. For example, a ring-shaped member having rubber elasticity may be used as the first pad 726p.

[0148] The installation section 72 may include a flow path 727 that is connectable to the third discharge hole 125 at the third outlet 5o by, for example, installing the flow path device 100 on the installation section 72. The flow path 727 may be configured with one or more members, such as tubular members. The flow path 727 may have, for example, a second pad 727p at an upper end of the flow path 727. For example, by installing the flow path device 100 on the installation section 72, the second pad 727p may be able to come into close contact with the periphery of the third outlet 5o of the underside 1b of the flow path device 100. The second pad 727p may be, for example, an annular member having rubber elasticity.

[0149] <1-1-3. Supply section> The supply section 73 is a section for supplying the first liquid L1 and the second liquid L2 to the flow path device 100.

[0150] As shown in FIG. 1, the supply unit 73 includes a nozzle unit 731 , a first moving mechanism 732 , and a suction / discharge unit 733 .

[0151] FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the nozzle portion 731 and the suction / discharge portion 733 of the supply portion 73. In FIG. 20, the configuration related to the first moving mechanism 732 is omitted. In FIG. 20, the flow path is indicated by a simplified solid line. In FIG. 20, the manner in which liquid is suctioned and discharged in the nozzle portion 731 is schematically illustrated by thin, dashed-dotted arrows. In FIG. 20, the direction in which fluid flows in the flow path connecting the nozzle portion 731 and the suction / discharge portion 733 is schematically illustrated by thin, arrowed lines. Note that the configuration of the nozzle portion 731 and the suction / discharge portion 733 is not limited to the example illustrated in FIG. 20.

[0152] <<Nozzle section>> The nozzle portion 731 has an elongated shape, for example, as shown in FIG. 20 . The nozzle portion 731 may have a linear elongated shape, for example. The nozzle portion 731 has a nozzle tip portion 731t. The nozzle tip portion 731t is located at the tip of the nozzle portion 731 and has an opening for suctioning and discharging a fluid such as a liquid. The nozzle portion 731 may have an internal space (also referred to as an intra-nozzle space) 731s that can temporarily hold the suctioned liquid, for example.

[0153] The nozzle portion 731 may be connected to the suction and exhaust portion 733. More specifically, an intra-nozzle space 731s of the nozzle portion 731 may be connected to the suction and exhaust portion 733. In the example of FIG. 20 , the nozzle portion 731 may be connected to the suction and exhaust portion 733 via a tubular member 73c. ​​More specifically, the intra-nozzle space 731s of the nozzle portion 731 may be connected to the suction and exhaust portion 733 via a tubular member 73c. ​​Here, the flow path connecting the suction and exhaust portion 733 and the nozzle portion 731 may be provided with mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path.

[0154] <<Suction and exhaust part>> The suction / discharge unit 733 can cause the nozzle unit 731 to suck liquid and can discharge the liquid from the nozzle unit 731. For example, the suction / discharge unit 733 may be able to cause the nozzle unit 731 to suck liquid and can discharge the liquid from the nozzle unit 731 when the suction / discharge unit 733 and the nozzle unit 731 are in communication with each other so that fluid can flow between them. More specifically, the suction / discharge unit 733 may be able to suck liquid into the nozzle tip portion 731t and can discharge the liquid from the nozzle tip portion 731t when the suction / discharge unit 733 and the nozzle unit 731 are in communication with each other so that fluid can flow between them. There are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the suction / discharge unit 733 as long as it can achieve the suction and discharge of liquid by the nozzle unit 731. For example, a mechanism capable of sucking or discharging a fluid such as a liquid or a gas using a pump such as a syringe pump may be applied to the suction / discharge unit 733. The operation of the suction and discharge unit 733 may be controlled by, for example, the control unit 76. Here, the control unit 76 may be able to control, for example, by controlling the operation of the suction and discharge unit 733, the start and stop of suction and discharge of liquid by the nozzle unit 731, the amount of liquid suctioned by the nozzle unit 731 per unit time, and the amount of liquid discharged by the nozzle unit 731 per unit time.

[0155] <<First movement mechanism>> The first moving mechanism 732 is a mechanism that can move the nozzle portion 731.

[0156] 21 to 24 are diagrams for explaining the movement of the nozzle portion 731 by the first movement mechanism 732. In Fig. 21, the region where the first liquid L1 exists is hatched in a matte finish.

[0157] Here, the first moving mechanism 732 may be able to move the nozzle portion 731 in a state where the nozzle tip portion 731t is positioned downward in the nozzle portion 731. From another perspective, the first moving mechanism 732 may be able to move the nozzle portion 731 in a state where the nozzle portion 731 is positioned in a form extending from above to below.

[0158] The first moving mechanism 732 can move the nozzle tip portion 731t among a plurality of regions by moving the nozzle portion 731. Here, the plurality of regions includes a first region A1, a second region A2, a third region A3, and a fourth region A4.

[0159] The first region A1 is a region located within the first container 501 when the first container 501 is placed in the placement unit 71. FIG. 21 shows an example of a state in which the nozzle tip portion 731t is located within the first region A1. In the example of FIG. 21, the nozzle portion 731 is inserted into the internal space 501s of the first container 501 via the opening 501o. When the nozzle tip portion 731t is located within the first region A1, the suction / discharge unit 733 can, for example, cause the nozzle portion 731 to suck in the first liquid L1 stored in the first container 501. In FIG. 21, an example of the manner in which the first liquid L1 is sucked in by the nozzle portion 731 is schematically shown by an arrow drawn with a thin two-dot chain line.

[0160] The second region A2 is a region located from the first introduction portion 222 to the first space 2sp when the flow path device 100 is installed in the installation section 72. FIG. 22 shows an example of a state in which the nozzle tip portion 731t is located in the second region A2. In FIG. 22, an example of a simplified outer edge of the installation section 72 is schematically shown by a thin two-dot chain line. In the example of FIG. 22, the nozzle portion 731 is inserted into the first space 2sp through the first through-hole 222p serving as the first introduction portion 222. When the nozzle tip portion 731t is located in the second region A2, the suction / discharge portion 733 can, for example, eject a liquid such as the first liquid L1 from the nozzle portion 731 toward the first space 2sp. Here, the nozzle portion 731 may be inserted into the first through-hole 222p serving as the first introduction portion 222 without being inserted into the first space 2sp. In FIG. 22, an example of the manner in which liquid is ejected from the nozzle portion 731 is shown schematically by a thin, two-dot chain arrow.

[0161] The third region A3 is a region located from the second introduction portion 322 to the second space 3sp when the flow path device 100 is installed in the installation section 72. FIG. 23 shows an example of a state in which the nozzle tip portion 731t is located in the third region A3. In FIG. 23, an example of a simplified outer edge of the installation section 72 is schematically shown by a thin two-dot chain line. In the example of FIG. 23, the nozzle portion 731 is inserted into the second space 3sp through the second through-hole 322p serving as the second introduction portion 322. When the nozzle tip portion 731t is located in the third region A3, the suction / discharge portion 733 can, for example, eject a liquid such as the second liquid L2 from the nozzle portion 731 into the second space 3sp. Here, the nozzle portion 731 may be inserted into the second through-hole 322p serving as the second introduction portion 322 without being inserted into the second space 3sp. In FIG. 23, an example of the manner in which liquid is ejected from the nozzle portion 731 is shown schematically by a thin, two-dot chain arrow.

[0162] The fourth region A4 is a region located within the cleaning tank 751 of the cleaning unit 75. The inside of the cleaning tank 751 may be, for example, the space (also referred to as the in-tank space) 751s inside the cleaning tank 751. FIG. 24 shows an example of a state in which the nozzle tip portion 731t is located within the fourth region A4. In the example of FIG. 24, the nozzle portion 731 is inserted into the in-tank space 751s through an opening (also referred to as an upper opening) 751o at the top of the cleaning tank 751. When the nozzle tip portion 731t is located within the fourth region A4, the nozzle portion 731 can be cleaned in the cleaning unit 75. Here, if the nozzle tip portion 731t is located at the lower part of the in-tank space 751s, a wider area of ​​the nozzle portion 731 can be located within the cleaning tank 751. This allows a wider area of ​​the nozzle portion 731 to be cleaned.

[0163] The first moving mechanism 732 may be, for example, a mechanism combined with a mechanism capable of linear movement (also referred to as a linear movement mechanism), a mechanism capable of movement in various directions, or a mechanism combined with a linear movement mechanism and a mechanism capable of various movements. The linear movement mechanism may be, for example, a mechanism combining a guide unit such as a linear guide with a ball screw, or a mechanism combining a belt with a pulley, and a motor. The linear movement mechanism may be, for example, a mechanism using a hydraulic cylinder, a gas pressure cylinder, or a linear movement motor. The mechanism capable of various movements may be, for example, an automated arm or a robot arm. There are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the first moving mechanism 732 as long as the first moving mechanism 732 can move the nozzle portion 731 to move the nozzle tip portion 731t between multiple regions, including the first region A1, the second region A2, the third region A3, and the fourth region A4, by moving the nozzle portion 731.

[0164] Fig. 25 is a front view schematically showing an example of the configuration of first moving mechanism 732. Fig. 26 is a plan view schematically showing an example of the configuration of first moving mechanism 732. It should be noted that the configuration of first moving mechanism 732 is not limited to the example shown in Figs. 25 and 26.

[0165] In the example of FIGS. 25 and 26, the first moving mechanism 732 includes a first linear motion mechanism 7321, a second linear motion mechanism 7322, and a third linear motion mechanism 7323. The first linear motion mechanism 7321 is a mechanism that moves the nozzle unit 731 in the up-down direction, which is a direction parallel to the Z-axis. The second linear motion mechanism 7322 is a mechanism that moves the nozzle unit 731 in the left-right direction, which is a direction parallel to the X-axis as a first horizontal direction. The third linear motion mechanism 7323 is a mechanism that moves the nozzle unit 731 in the front-rear direction, which is a direction parallel to the Y-axis as a second horizontal direction. In FIGS. 25 and 26, the first linear motion mechanism 7321, the second linear motion mechanism 7322, and the third linear motion mechanism 7323 are each shown in a simplified schematic form.

[0166] The first linear motion mechanism 7321 includes, for example, a first guide portion 7321g extending in the vertical direction and a first block 7321s to which the nozzle portion 731 is fixed. For example, a linear guide having a longitudinal direction along the vertical direction may be used as the first guide portion 7321g. The first block 7321s may be hooked onto the first guide portion 7321g in a manner that allows it to move smoothly relative to the first guide portion 7321g along the longitudinal direction of the first guide portion 7321g. The first linear motion mechanism 7321 may further include, for example, a combination of a ball screw and a motor, a cylinder, a linear motor, or the like, as a unit (also referred to as a first drive unit) that generates a driving force that moves the first block 7321s along the longitudinal direction of the first guide portion 7321g. 25 and 26, the configurations of the first guide portion 7321g and the first block 7321s are shown in a simplified schematic manner, and the first drive portion is not shown. In Fig. 25, the direction in which the first block 7321s moves along the longitudinal direction of the first guide portion 7321g is shown schematically by a thin, two-dot chain arrow.

[0167] The second linear motion mechanism 7322 includes, for example, a second guide portion 7322g extending in the left-right direction and a second block 7322s to which the first guide portion 7321g is fixed or connected. For example, a linear guide having a longitudinal direction along the left-right direction may be used as the second guide portion 7322g. The second block 7322s may be hooked onto the second guide portion 7322g so as to move smoothly relative to the second guide portion 7322g along the longitudinal direction of the second guide portion 7322g. The second linear motion mechanism 7322 may further include, for example, a combination of a ball screw and a motor, a cylinder, or a linear motion motor as a part (also referred to as a second drive part) that generates a driving force to move the second block 7322s along the longitudinal direction of the second guide portion 7322g. 25 and 26, the configurations of the second guide portion 7322g and the second block 7322s are shown in a simplified schematic manner, and the second drive portion is not shown. In Figures 25 and 26, the direction in which the second block 7322s moves along the longitudinal direction of the second guide portion 7322g is shown schematically by a thin, two-dot chain arrow.

[0168] The third linear motion mechanism 7323 includes, for example, two third guide portions 7323g each extending along the front-rear direction and a third block 7323s to which the second guide portions 7322g are connected. The two third guide portions 7323g are the third-A guide portion 7323g1 and the third-B guide portion 7323g2, each having a longitudinal direction along the front-rear direction and positioned parallel to each other. Each of the two third guide portions 7323g may be fixed to, for example, the base portion 70. FIG. 25 shows an example of a portion of the base portion 70 to which each of the two third guide portions 7323g is fixed, schematically illustrated by a thin two-dot chain line. Each of the two third guide portions 7323g may be, for example, a linear guide having a longitudinal direction along the front-rear direction. The two third blocks 7323s are the third-A block 7323s1 and the third-B block 7323s2. The second guide portion 7322g is connected to the 3A block 7323s1 via a connecting member (also referred to as a first connecting member) 732r1 such as a rod. The second guide portion 7322g is connected to the 3B block 7323s2 via a connecting member (also referred to as a second connecting member) 732r2 such as a rod. In the example of FIGS. 25 and 26, the end portion of the second guide portion 7322g in the -X direction is connected to the 3A block 7323s1 via the first connecting member 732r1. The end portion of the second guide portion 7322g in the +X direction is connected to the 3B block 7323s2 via the second connecting member 732r2. The 3A block 7323s1 may be hooked onto the 3A guide portion 7323g1 in a manner that allows it to move smoothly relative to the 3A guide portion 7323g1 along the longitudinal direction of the 3A guide portion 7323g1. The third-B block 7323s2 may be hooked onto the third-B guide portion 7323g2 in a manner that allows it to move smoothly relative to the third-B guide portion 7323g2 along the longitudinal direction of the third-B guide portion 7323g2. The third linear motion mechanism 7323 may further include, for example, a combination of a ball screw and a motor, a cylinder, or a linear motion motor as a part (also referred to as a third drive part) that generates a driving force that moves each of the two third blocks 7323s relative to the two third guide portions 7323g.25 and 26, the configurations of the third guide portion 7323g and the third block 7323s are shown in a simplified schematic manner, and the third drive portion is not shown. In Fig. 26, the direction in which the third block 7323s moves along the longitudinal direction of the third guide portion 7323g is shown schematically by a thin, two-dot chain arrow.

[0169] <<Example of supply unit operation>> The supply unit 73 may be capable of performing a first supply operation and a second supply operation. The first supply operation and the second supply operation by the supply unit 73 may be realized, for example, by control by the control unit 76. The control by the control unit 76 may be control of each part of the supply unit 73 by the control unit 76.

[0170] The first supply operation may include, for example, an operation (also referred to as a 1A supply operation) in which the first moving mechanism 732 moves the nozzle portion 731 to position the nozzle tip portion 731t in the first region A1 inside the first container 501, and the suction and discharge unit 733 sucks and holds the first liquid L1 from the first container 501 using the nozzle portion 731. Furthermore, the first supply operation may include, for example, an operation (also referred to as a 1B supply operation) in which, after the 1A supply operation, the first moving mechanism 732 moves the nozzle portion 731 to position the nozzle tip portion 731t in the second region A2 of the first liquid supply unit 2, and the suction and discharge unit 733 discharges the first liquid L1 into the first space 2sp of the first liquid supply unit 2 using the nozzle portion 731.

[0171] The second supply operation may be, for example, an operation in which the first moving mechanism 732 moves the nozzle portion 731 to position the nozzle tip portion 731t in the third area A3 of the second liquid supply portion 3, and causes the nozzle portion 731 to discharge the second liquid L2 into the second space 3sp of the second liquid supply portion 3. Here, for example, the suction and discharge portion 733 may cause the nozzle portion 731 to discharge the second liquid L2 into the second space 3sp of the second liquid supply portion 3.

[0172] <<Configuration example related to liquid supply in supply unit>> The suction / discharge unit 733 may be able to cause the nozzle unit 731 to discharge the second liquid L2, for example, by a configuration that switches a flow path intervening in the flow path connecting the suction / discharge unit 733 and the nozzle unit 731.

[0173] Fig. 27 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a configuration for discharging a liquid different from the first liquid L1 by the nozzle portion 731 in the supply portion 73. In Fig. 27, similar to Fig. 20, the configuration related to the first movement mechanism 732 is not shown, and the flow path is indicated by simplified solid lines.

[0174] 27, the supply unit 73 may include, for example, a first flow path switching unit (also referred to as a first switching unit) 734 and a liquid supply source (also referred to as a supply source) 735. Here, the suction / discharge unit 733, the supply source 735, and the nozzle unit 731 may be connected via the first switching unit 734.

[0175] Fig. 28 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of first switching unit 734 and supply source 735. In Fig. 28, as in Fig. 20 and Fig. 27, the configuration related to first moving mechanism 732 is omitted, and the flow path is indicated by simplified solid lines. Note that the configurations of first switching unit 734 and supply source 735 are not limited to the example shown in Fig. 28.

[0176] As shown in FIG. 28 , the supply source 735 may include, for example, a first liquid supply source (also referred to as the first supply source) 7351 that holds the second liquid L2. The first supply source 7351 may be, for example, a bottomed tank or container that stores the second liquid L2. The first switching unit 734 may be selectively set to one of a plurality of flow path states, including, for example, a first flow path state and a second flow path state. The first flow path state is a flow path state in which the suction and discharge unit 733 and the nozzle unit 731 communicate with each other. The second flow path state is a flow path state in which the suction and discharge unit 733 and the first supply source 7351 communicate with each other. This flow path state may refer to a flow path state in which a fluid can flow in the first switching unit 734. The flow path state in the first switching unit 734 may be set, for example, by control of the first switching unit 734 by the control unit 76.

[0177] Here, for example, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may cause the nozzle unit 731 to suck in and hold a liquid such as the first liquid L1, and then the suction and discharge unit 733 may cause the nozzle unit 731 to discharge the liquid such as the first liquid L1. This operation may be achieved by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of the supply unit 73 by the control unit 76. Also, for example, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the second flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may suck in and hold the second liquid L2 from the first supply source 7351, and then when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may cause the nozzle unit 731 to discharge the second liquid L2. This operation may also be achieved by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of the supply unit 73 by the control unit 76. According to this configuration, the supply section 73 can realize the operation of discharging the second liquid L2 without moving the nozzle section 731. This allows the second liquid L2 to be supplied to the flow path device 100 efficiently.

[0178] Here, for example, there are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the first switching unit 734, as long as the first switching unit 734 has a configuration that can selectively set the flow path state to any one of a plurality of flow path states including the first flow path state and the second flow path state.

[0179] For example, as shown in FIG. 28 , the first switching unit 734 may include a mechanism (also referred to as a first switching mechanism) 7341 for setting the flow path state to one of a first flow path state and a second flow path state. The first switching mechanism 7341 has, for example, a first-A port M1, a first-B port O1, and a first-C port C1. The first switching mechanism 7341 may be selectively set to, for example, either a state in which fluid can flow between the first-A port M1 and the first-B port O1 (also referred to as a first-A state) or a state in which fluid can flow between the first-A port M1 and the first-C port C1 (also referred to as a first-B state). A three-way valve, for example, may be used as the first switching mechanism 7341. The three-way valve may be, for example, a so-called three-way electromagnetic valve.

[0180] The first A port M1 may be connected to the suction / exhaust unit 733 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the suction / exhaust unit 733 and the first A port M1 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path.

[0181] The first-B inlet / outlet O1 may be connected to the nozzle portion 731 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the first-B inlet / outlet O1 and the nozzle portion 731 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or for switching the flow path.

[0182] The first C port C1 may be connected to the first supply source 7351 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. For example, if the first supply source 7351 is a tank with a bottom, the first C port C1 and the first supply source 7351 may be connected via a member having a flow path connected to a through-hole that opens to the internal space of the tank at the bottom of the tank. Furthermore, if the first supply source 7351 is a tank or container with a bottom, the first C port C1 and the first supply source 7351 may be connected via a tubular member inserted into the tank or container from above. The flow path connecting the first C port C1 and the first supply source 7351 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path.

[0183] 28, for example, when the first switching mechanism 7341 is set to the 1A state, the first switching unit 734 can be set to the first flow path state. When the first switching mechanism 7341 is set to the 1B state, the first switching unit 734 can be set to the second flow path state.

[0184] Here, the suction / exhaust unit 733 may be further capable of ejecting various cleaning liquids from the nozzle unit 731, for example, by a configuration that switches the flow path interposed in the flow path connecting the suction / exhaust unit 733 and the nozzle unit 731.

[0185] Fig. 29 is a diagram schematically illustrating another example of the configuration of first switching unit 734 and supply source 735. In Fig. 29, as in Fig. 20, Fig. 27, and Fig. 28, the configuration related to first moving mechanism 732 is omitted, and the flow path is indicated by simplified solid lines. Note that the configurations of first switching unit 734 and supply source 735 are not limited to the example shown in Fig. 29.

[0186] As shown in FIG. 29 , the supply source 735 may include, for example, a first supply source 7351 containing the second liquid L2, a second liquid supply source (also referred to as the second supply source) 7352 containing the first cleaning liquid, and a third liquid supply source (also referred to as the third supply source) 7353 containing the second cleaning liquid. Here, each of the first cleaning liquid and the second cleaning liquid may be, for example, a cleaning liquid used to clean the nozzle portion 731 in the cleaning tank 751. The first cleaning liquid may be, for example, an alkaline cleaning liquid. This alkaline cleaning liquid may be, for example, an alkaline, phosphorus-free cleaning liquid containing a disinfectant. More specifically, the first cleaning liquid may be, for example, a cleaning liquid produced by diluting a strong liquid immersion cleaner for medical and laboratory instruments, such as Scat (registered trademark). The second cleaning liquid may be, for example, pure water for rinsing. The second supply source 7352 may be, for example, a tank or container with a bottom that stores the first cleaning liquid, and the third supply source 7353 may be, for example, a tank or container with a bottom that stores the second cleaning liquid.

[0187] The multiple flow path states that the first switching unit 734 can selectively set may include a third flow path state and a fourth flow path state in addition to the first flow path state and the second flow path state. In other words, the first switching unit 734 may be able to selectively set one of multiple flow path states including, for example, the first flow path state, the second flow path state, the third flow path state, and the fourth flow path state. The third flow path state is a flow path state in which the intake and exhaust unit 733 and the second supply source 7352 communicate with each other. The fourth flow path state is a flow path state in which the intake and exhaust unit 733 and the third supply source 7353 communicate with each other.

[0188] Here, for example, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the third flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may aspirate and hold the first cleaning liquid from the second supply source 7352, and then, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may discharge the first cleaning liquid through the nozzle unit 731. This operation may be realized by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of the supply unit 73 by the control unit 76. Furthermore, for example, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the fourth flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may aspirate and hold the second cleaning liquid from the third supply source 7353, and then, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may discharge the second cleaning liquid through the nozzle unit 731. This operation may also be realized by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of the supply unit 73 by the control unit 76. According to this configuration, the supply unit 73 can discharge each of the second liquid L2, the first cleaning liquid, and the second cleaning liquid such as pure water without moving the nozzle unit 731. This allows the inside of the nozzle unit 731, which will be described later, to be cleaned efficiently.

[0189] Here, for example, there are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the first switching unit 734, as long as the first switching unit 734 has a configuration that can selectively set the flow path state to any one of a plurality of flow path states including a first flow path state, a second flow path state, a third flow path state, and a fourth flow path state.

[0190] For example, as shown in FIG. 29 , the first switching unit 734 may include a mechanism (also referred to as a second switching mechanism) 7342 for setting either a first flow path state or a third flow path state. The second switching mechanism 7342 may have, for example, a second-A port M2, a second-B port O2, and a second-C port C2. The second switching mechanism 7342 may be selectively set to, for example, either a state in which fluid can flow between the second-A port M2 and the second-B port O2 (also referred to as a second-A state) or a state in which fluid can flow between the second-A port M2 and the second-C port C2 (also referred to as a second-B state). A three-way valve, for example, may be used as the second switching mechanism 7342. The three-way valve may be, for example, a so-called three-way electromagnetic valve.

[0191] The second A port M2 may be connected to the suction / exhaust unit 733 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the suction / exhaust unit 733 and the second A port M2 may have mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path. In the example of Fig. 29, a first switching mechanism 7341, which is an example of mechanisms such as various valves, is provided in the flow path connecting the suction / exhaust unit 733 and the second A port M2.

[0192] The second-B inlet / outlet O2 may be connected to the nozzle portion 731 via, for example, one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the second-B inlet / outlet O2 and the nozzle portion 731 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path. In the example of Fig. 29, the flow path connecting the second-B inlet / outlet O2 and the nozzle portion 731 includes a third switching mechanism 7343 (described later) as an example of mechanisms such as various valves.

[0193] The second C port C2 may be connected to the second supply source 7352 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. For example, if the second supply source 7352 is a tank with a bottom, the second C port C2 and the second supply source 7352 may be connected via a member having a flow path connected to a through-hole that opens into the internal space of the tank at the bottom of the tank. Furthermore, if the second supply source 7352 is a tank or container with a bottom, the second C port C2 and the second supply source 7352 may be connected via a tubular member inserted into the tank or container from above. The flow path connecting the second C port C2 and the second supply source 7352 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path.

[0194] For example, as shown in FIG. 29 , the first switching unit 734 may include a mechanism (also referred to as a third switching mechanism) 7343 for setting either the first flow path state or the fourth flow path state. The third switching mechanism 7343 may have, for example, a 3A port M3, a 3B port O3, and a 3C port C3. The third switching mechanism 7343 may be selectively set to, for example, either a state in which fluid can flow between the 3A port M3 and the 3B port O3 (also referred to as a 3A state) or a state in which fluid can flow between the 3A port M3 and the 3C port C3 (also referred to as a 3B state). A three-way valve, for example, may be used as the third switching mechanism 7343. The three-way valve may be, for example, a so-called three-way electromagnetic valve.

[0195] The 3A port M3 may be connected to the suction / exhaust unit 733 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the suction / exhaust unit 733 and the 3A port M3 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path. In the example of Fig. 29, the flow path connecting the suction / exhaust unit 733 and the 3A port M3 includes a first switching mechanism 7341 and a second switching mechanism 7342, which are examples of mechanisms such as various valves.

[0196] The third-B port O3 may be connected to the nozzle portion 731 via, for example, one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the third-B port O3 and the nozzle portion 731 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path. In the example of Fig. 29, the flow path connecting the first-B port O1 of the first switching mechanism 7341 and the nozzle portion 731 includes a second switching mechanism 7342 and a third switching mechanism 7343, which are examples of mechanisms such as various valves.

[0197] The third-C port C3 may be connected to the third supply source 7353 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. For example, if the third supply source 7353 is a tank with a bottom, the third-C port C3 and the third supply source 7353 may be connected via a member having a flow path connected to a through-hole that opens to the internal space of the tank at the bottom of the tank. Furthermore, if the third supply source 7353 is a tank or container with a bottom, the third-C port C3 and the third supply source 7353 may be connected via a tubular member inserted into the tank or container from above. The flow path connecting the third-C port C3 and the third supply source 7353 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path.

[0198] 29, for example, the first switching mechanism 7341 is set to the 1A state, the second switching mechanism 7342 is set to the 2A state, and the third switching mechanism 7343 is set to the 3A state, thereby setting the first switching unit 734 to the first flow path state. For example, the first switching mechanism 7341 is set to the 1B state, thereby setting the first switching unit 734 to the second flow path state. For example, the first switching mechanism 7341 is set to the 1A state, and the second switching mechanism 7342 is set to the 2B state, thereby setting the first switching unit 734 to the third flow path state. The first switching mechanism 7341 is set to the 1A state, the second switching mechanism 7342 is set to the 2A state, and the third switching mechanism 7343 is set to the 3B state, thereby setting the first switching unit 734 to the fourth flow path state.

[0199] <1-1-4. Pressing part> The pressing portion 74 can press the first movable member 22 of the first liquid supply portion 2 of the flow path device 100 toward the first inlet 1o, and can also press the second movable member 32 of the second liquid supply portion 3 of the flow path device 100 toward the second inlet 2o.

[0200] Fig. 30 is a diagram conceptually showing an example of the general configuration of the pressing unit 74. Figs. 31 and 32 are plan views schematically showing an example of the configuration of the pressing unit 74. In Fig. 30, the region where the first liquid L1 is present is hatched in a matte finish, and the region where the second liquid L2 is present is hatched using diagonal lines slanting upward to the right. It should be noted that the configuration of the pressing unit 74 is not limited to the example shown in Figs. 30 to 32.

[0201] 30 , the pressing unit 74 includes, for example, a first pressing member 741, a second pressing member 742, and a drive mechanism 743. The first pressing member 741 may be, for example, a member that can press the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o while blocking the first introduction portion 222 of the first movable member 22 from the +Z direction side, which is the first direction. The second pressing member 742 may be, for example, a member that can press the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o while blocking the second introduction portion 322 of the second movable member 32 from the +Z direction side, which is the first direction. The drive mechanism 743 is a mechanism that can move the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742.

[0202] The pressing portion 74 may be capable of performing, for example, a first pressing action and a second pressing action.

[0203] The first pressing operation may be, for example, an operation in which, with the flow channel device 100 installed on the installation section 72, the driving mechanism 743 presses the first movable member 22 of the flow channel device 100 installed on the installation section 72 toward the first inlet 1o using the first pressing member 741. In this first pressing operation, for example, the first pressing member 741 may rub the first movable member 22 against the first cylindrical portion 21 toward the first inlet 1o. From another perspective, in the first pressing operation, for example, the first pressing member 741 may press the first movable member 22 downward. When this first pressing operation is performed, the first introduction section 222 of the first movable member 22 may be blocked by the first pressing member 741 from the side in the +Z direction as the first direction. According to this first pressing operation, for example, in the first liquid supply unit 2, with the first liquid L1 stored in the first space 2sp, the first introduction part 222 may be blocked from the +Z direction side as the first direction by the first pressing member 741, and the first movable member 22 may be pressed and moved toward the first introduction port 1o by the first pressing member 741. This allows the first liquid L1 to be introduced into the first introduction flow path 113 from within the first space 2sp via the first introduction hole 121.

[0204] The second pressing operation may be, for example, an operation in which, with the flow channel device 100 installed on the installation section 72, the driving mechanism 743 presses the second movable member 32 of the flow channel device 100 installed on the installation section 72 toward the second inlet 2o using the second pressing member 742. In this second pressing operation, for example, the second pressing member 742 may rub the second movable member 32 against the second cylindrical portion 31 toward the second inlet 2o. From another perspective, in the second pressing operation, for example, the second pressing member 742 may press the second movable member 32 downward. When this second pressing operation is performed, the second introduction section 322 of the second movable member 32 may be blocked by the second pressing member 742 from the side in the +Z direction, which is the first direction. According to this second pressing operation, for example, in the second liquid supply unit 3, with the second liquid L2 stored in the second space 3sp, the second introduction part 322 may be blocked from the +Z direction side as the first direction by the second pressing member 742, and the second movable member 32 may be pressed and moved toward the second introduction port 2o by the second pressing member 742. This allows the second liquid L2 to be introduced into the second introduction flow path 114 from within the second space 3sp via the second introduction hole 122.

[0205] The drive mechanism 743 may include, for example, a pressing mechanism 743v, as shown in FIG. 30 . In other words, the pressing unit 74 may include, for example, the pressing mechanism 743v. The pressing unit 74 may be able to perform a first pressing operation and a second pressing operation by using, for example, the pressing mechanism 743v. The pressing mechanism 743v may be able to raise and lower each of the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742 in the up and down direction, for example. In FIG. 30 , the raising and lowering of each of the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742 is schematically shown by arrows drawn with thin, two-dot chain lines.

[0206] The pressing mechanism 743v may be, for example, a combination of a guide unit such as a linear guide, a ball screw, and a motor, or may be a cylinder or a linear motor. This allows the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742 to move linearly. From another perspective, the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742 can move vertically. For example, there are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the pressing mechanism 743v as long as the pressing mechanism 743v has a configuration that can move the first pressing member 741 in a manner that causes the first movable member 22 to be pressed toward the first inlet 1o by the first pressing member 741, and can move the second pressing member 742 in a manner that causes the second movable member 32 to be pressed toward the second inlet 2o by the second pressing member 742.

[0207] In the first embodiment, the pressing mechanism 743v may include, for example, a first pressing mechanism 743v1 and a second pressing mechanism 743v2 as shown in Fig. 30. In other words, the drive mechanism 743 may include, for example, a first pressing mechanism 743v1 and a second pressing mechanism 743v2.

[0208] For example, with the flow channel device 100 installed on the installation section 72, the first pressing mechanism 743v1 can move the first pressing member 741 in a direction from the first movable member 22 of the flow channel device 100 installed on the installation section 72 toward the first inlet 1o. This allows the first pressing mechanism 743v1 to press the first movable member 22 of the flow channel device 100 installed on the installation section 72 toward the first inlet 1o by the first pressing member 741. Here, the first inlet 222 of the first movable member 22 may be blocked by the first pressing member 741 from the +Z direction side, which is the first direction.

[0209] For example, with the flow channel device 100 installed on the installation section 72, the second pressing mechanism 743v2 can move the second pressing member 742 in a direction from the first movable member 22 of the flow channel device 100 installed on the installation section 72 toward the first inlet 1o. This allows the second pressing mechanism 743v2 to press the second movable member 32 of the flow channel device 100 installed on the installation section 72 toward the second inlet 2o by the second pressing member 742. Here, the second inlet 322 of the second movable member 32 may be blocked by the second pressing member 742 from the +Z direction side, which is the first direction.

[0210] In other words, the operation of the first pressing mechanism 743v1 to press the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o with the first pressing member 741 and the operation of the second pressing mechanism 743v2 to press the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o with the second pressing member 742 can be performed separately. From another perspective, for example, the downward movement of the first pressing member 741 by the first pressing mechanism 743v1 and the downward movement of the second pressing member 742 by the second pressing mechanism 743v2 can be performed separately. This makes it possible to shift the timing at which the first pressing member 741 presses the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o from the timing at which the second pressing member 742 presses the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o. As a result, in the flow path device 100, the timing at which the first liquid L1 is introduced from the first liquid supply section 2 to the flow path section 11 and the timing at which the second liquid L2 is introduced from the second liquid supply section 3 to the flow path section 11 can be made different as necessary.

[0211] For example, there are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the first pressing mechanism 743v1 as long as it has a configuration that can move the first pressing member 741 in a direction from the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o. The first pressing mechanism 743v1 may be, for example, a combination of a guide unit such as a linear guide, a ball screw, and a motor, or a cylinder or a linear motor. This allows the first pressing mechanism 743v1 to move the first pressing member 741 linearly.

[0212] For example, there are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the second pressing mechanism 743v2 as long as the second pressing mechanism 743v2 has a configuration that can move the second pressing member 742 in a direction from the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o. The second pressing mechanism 743v2 may be, for example, a combination of a guide unit such as a linear guide, a ball screw, and a motor, or a cylinder or a linear motor. This allows the second pressing mechanism 743v2 to move the second pressing member 742 linearly.

[0213] The drive mechanism 743 may include, for example, a second movement mechanism 743h as shown in Figure 30. In other words, the pressing unit 74 may include, for example, a second movement mechanism 743h.

[0214] The second moving mechanism 743h may be, for example, a mechanism capable of moving the first pressing member 741 between the first pressing position Pp1 and the first retracted position Pe1, and of moving the second pressing member 742 between the second pressing position Pp2 and the second retracted position Pe2, as shown in Figures 31 and 32.

[0215] The first pressing position Pp1 may be a position overlapping with the first movable member 22 when the particle separator 7 is viewed from above in the −Z direction as the second direction with the flow channel device 100 installed in the installation section 72. For example, the first pressing position Pp1 may be a position directly above the first movable member 22 when the flow channel device 100 is installed in the installation section 72. The first retracted position Pe1 may be a position offset from the first liquid supply unit 2 when the particle separator 7 is viewed from above in the −Z direction as the second direction with the flow channel device 100 installed in the installation section 72. For example, the first retracted position Pe1 may be a position offset from directly above the first movable member 22 when the flow channel device 100 is installed in the installation section 72. Therefore, for example, the first retracted position Pe1 may be a position offset from the flow channel device 100 when the particle separator 7 is viewed from above in the −Z direction as the second direction with the flow channel device 100 installed in the installation section 72.

[0216] The second pressing position Pp2 may be a position overlapping with the second movable member 32 when the particle separator 7 is viewed from above in the −Z direction as the second direction with the flow channel device 100 installed in the installation section 72. For example, the second pressing position Pp2 may be a position directly above the second movable member 32 when the flow channel device 100 is installed in the installation section 72. The second retracted position Pe2 may be a position offset from the second liquid supply unit 3 when the particle separator 7 is viewed from above in the −Z direction as the second direction with the flow channel device 100 installed in the installation section 72. For example, the second retracted position Pe2 may be a position offset from directly above the second movable member 32 when the flow channel device 100 is installed in the installation section 72. Therefore, for example, the second retracted position Pe2 may be a position offset from the flow channel device 100 when the particle separator 7 is viewed from above in the −Z direction as the second direction with the flow channel device 100 installed in the installation section 72.

[0217] In other words, the second moving mechanism 743h may be able to move the first pressing member 741 between, for example, a first pressing position Pp1 which is a position on the first movable member 22 of the flow channel device 100 installed in the installation section 72, and a first retracted position Pe1 which is a position retracted from above the first movable member 22. The second moving mechanism 743h may be able to move the second pressing member 742 between, for example, a second pressing position Pp2 which is a position on the second movable member 32 of the flow channel device 100 installed in the installation section 72, and a second retracted position Pe2 which is a position retracted from above the second movable member 32. As a result, the first pressing member 741 is moved from the first pressing position Pp1 to the first retracted position Pe1, and the second pressing member 742 is moved from the second pressing position Pp2 to the second retracted position Pe2, so that the flow path device 100 can be easily installed in the installation section 72 and the flow path device 100 can be easily removed from the installation section 72.

[0218] The second movement mechanism 743h may be, for example, a mechanism capable of linear movement (linear mechanism), a mechanism capable of movement in an arc around an axis (also referred to as a rotational mechanism), or a mechanism capable of movement in various directions. The linear movement mechanism may be, for example, a mechanism combining a guide unit such as a linear guide with a ball screw, or a mechanism combining a belt with a pulley, and a motor. The linear movement mechanism may be, for example, a mechanism using a hydraulic cylinder, a gas pressure cylinder, or a linear motor. The rotational mechanism may be, for example, a mechanism combining a stepping motor with an arm fixed to the shaft of the stepping motor. The mechanism capable of various movements may be, for example, an automated arm or a robot arm. For example, there are no special restrictions on the second moving mechanism 743h as long as the second moving mechanism 743h has a configuration that can move the first pressing member 741 between the first pressing position Pp1 and the first retracted position Pe1, and can move the second pressing member 742 between the second pressing position Pp2 and the second retracted position Pe2.

[0219] In the first embodiment, for example, the first retracted position Pe1 may be a position shifted from the first liquid supply unit 2 in a direction (also referred to as the seventh direction) intersecting the third direction in which the first liquid supply unit 2 and the second liquid supply unit 3 are aligned when the particle separation device 7 is viewed from above in the −Z direction as the second direction with the flow path device 100 installed on the installation unit 72. The second retracted position Pe2 may be a position shifted from the first liquid supply unit 2 in a direction (also referred to as the eighth direction) intersecting the third direction in which the first liquid supply unit 2 and the second liquid supply unit 3 are aligned when the particle separation device 7 is viewed from above in the −Z direction as the second direction with the flow path device 100 installed on the installation unit 72.

[0220] Here, assume a configuration in which the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742 are moved in the third direction when the first pressing member 741 is moved from the first pressing position Pp1 to the first retracted position Pe1 and the second pressing member 742 is moved from the second pressing position Pp2 to the second retracted position Pe2. Compared to this configuration, the width dimension of the particle separator 7 in the third direction can be reduced by moving the first pressing member 741 in a seventh direction intersecting the third direction and moving the second pressing member 742 in an eighth direction intersecting the third direction. This can reduce the size of the particle separator 7, allowing the flow path device 100 to be easily installed in the installation section 72 and removed from the installation section 72.

[0221] In the examples of FIGS. 31 and 32, the seventh direction and the eighth direction are each perpendicular to the third direction, which is the +X direction, and the seventh direction and the eighth direction are each the +Y direction. The seventh direction and the eighth direction may be the same or different. The seventh direction does not have to be perpendicular to the third direction. The eighth direction does not have to be perpendicular to the third direction. In FIG. 31, an example of the direction in which each of the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742 moves is shown by arrows drawn with thin two-dot chain lines.

[0222] In the first embodiment, the second moving mechanism 743h may include, for example, a second-A moving mechanism 743h1 and a second-B moving mechanism 743h2, as shown in Figure 30. The second-A moving mechanism 743h1 may be able to move the first pressing member 741 between a first pressing position Pp1 and a first retracted position Pe1, as shown in Figures 31 and 32. The second-B moving mechanism 743h2 may be able to move the second pressing member 742 between a second pressing position Pp2 and a second retracted position Pe2, as shown in Figures 31 and 32. In other words, for example, the movement of the first pressing member 741 between the first pressing position Pp1 and the first retracted position Pe1 by the secondA moving mechanism 743h1 and the movement of the second pressing member 742 between the second pressing position Pp2 and the second retracted position Pe2 by the secondB moving mechanism 743h2 may be performed separately.

[0223] 33, for example, when the second liquid L2 is introduced into the flow path section 11 of the flow path device 100 by the second pressing member 742 pressing the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o, the nozzle section 731 can eject the first liquid L1 into the first space 2sp of the first liquid supply section 2. This allows, for example, when filling the flow path section 11 with the second liquid L2 as a preliminary preparation for particle separation using the flow path device 100, to shorten the time required from placing the first container 501 in the placement section 71 of the particle separation apparatus 7 and installing the flow path device 100 in the installation section 72 until completion of particle separation using the flow path device 100.

[0224] Fig. 33 is a diagram schematically showing an example of an operating state of the particle separator 7. In Fig. 33, the region where the second liquid L2 exists is hatched with diagonal lines slanting upward to the right.

[0225] 33 , in a state in which the flow path device 100 is installed on the installation section 72, the control section 76 may control the operations of the supply section 73 and the pressing section 74 to cause the second pressing mechanism 743v2 to perform a first introduction operation on the second liquid supply section 3, while causing the supply section 73 to perform a first injection operation of the first liquid L1 into the first liquid supply section 2. Here, the first introduction operation may be, for example, an operation in which the second pressing mechanism 743v2 causes the second pressing member 742 to press the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o, thereby causing the second liquid L2 to be introduced into the flow path section 11 from within the second space 3sp through the second inlet hole 122 by the second liquid supply section 3. The first injection operation may be an operation in which the first moving mechanism 732 of the supply unit 73 moves the nozzle unit 731 to position the nozzle tip portion 731t in the second region A2 of the first liquid supply unit 2, and the suction and discharge unit 733 discharges the first liquid L1 into the first space 2sp. By employing this configuration, it is possible to perform an operation in which the nozzle unit 731 discharges the first liquid L1 into the first space 2sp of the first liquid supply unit 2 while the second liquid L2 is being introduced into the flow path unit 11 of the flow path device 100. This may shorten the time required from placing the first container 501 in the placement unit 71 of the particle separation apparatus 7 and installing the flow path device 100 in the installation unit 72 to completing particle separation using the flow path device 100, for example.

[0226] For example, there are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the second-A movement mechanism 743h1 as long as it has a configuration that can move the first pressing member 741 between the first pressing position Pp1 and the first retracted position Pe1. The second-A movement mechanism 743h1 may be, for example, any of a linear mechanism, a rotational mechanism, and a mechanism that can move in various directions.

[0227] For example, there are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the second-B movement mechanism 743h2 as long as it has a configuration that can move the second pressing member 742 between the second pressing position Pp2 and the second retracted position Pe2. The second-B movement mechanism 743h2 may be, for example, any of a linear mechanism, a rotational mechanism, and a mechanism that can move in various directions.

[0228] An example of the drive mechanism 743 shown in FIGS. 31 and 32 will now be described.

[0229] In the example of Figures 31 and 32, the drive mechanism 743 includes a pressing mechanism 743v including a first pressing mechanism 743v1 and a second pressing mechanism 743v2, and a second moving mechanism 743h including a secondA moving mechanism 743h1 and a secondB moving mechanism 743h2.

[0230] The first pressing mechanism 743v1 is connected to the first pressing member 741 via an arm (also referred to as a first connecting arm) 741a extending in the -Y direction. The first pressing member 741 is fixed to the -Y direction end of the first connecting arm 741a. A part of the first pressing mechanism 743v1 is fixed to the +Y direction end of the first connecting arm 741a. For example, if a cylinder is used in the first pressing mechanism 743v1, the first connecting arm 741a may be fixed to the upper end of a rod extending above the cylinder. In this case, the first pressing mechanism 743v1 can raise and lower the first pressing member 741 by raising and lowering the first connecting arm 741a in the up-and-down direction, which is parallel to the Z axis.

[0231] The second-A movement mechanism 743h1 includes, for example, a fourth guide portion 743h1g extending along the front-rear direction, which is a direction parallel to the Y axis, and a fourth block 743h1s to which the first pressing mechanism 743v1 is fixed. The fourth guide portion 743h1g may be fixed to, for example, the base portion 70. FIGS. 31 and 32 schematically show an example of a portion of the base portion 70 to which the fourth guide portion 743h1g is fixed. For example, a linear guide having a longitudinal direction along the front-rear direction may be applied to the fourth guide portion 743h1g. The fourth block 743h1s may be hooked onto the fourth guide portion 743h1g in a manner that allows it to move smoothly relative to the fourth guide portion 743h1g. The second-A movement mechanism 743h1 may further include, for example, a combination of a ball screw and a motor, a cylinder, or a linear motor as a component (also referred to as a fourth drive unit) that generates a driving force for moving the fourth block 743h1s along the longitudinal direction of the fourth guide unit 743h1g. In FIGS. 31 and 32, the configurations of the fourth guide unit 743h1g and the fourth block 743h1s are shown in a simplified schematic form, and the fourth drive unit is not shown. Here, the movement of the fourth block 743h1s along the longitudinal direction of the fourth guide unit 743h1g allows the first pressing mechanism 743v1, the first connecting arm 741a, and the first pressing member 741 to move in the front-to-rear direction, which is parallel to the Y-axis. In FIG. 31, the direction of movement of the first pressing member 741 is indicated by a thin, two-dot chain arrow. In FIG. 32, the direction in which the fourth block 743h1s and the first pressing mechanism 743v1 move is indicated by a thin, two-dot chain arrow.

[0232] The second pressing mechanism 743v2 is connected to the second pressing member 742 via an arm (also referred to as a second connecting arm) 742a extending in the -Y direction. The second pressing member 742 is fixed to the -Y direction end of the second connecting arm 742a. ​​A part of the second pressing mechanism 743v2 is fixed to the +Y direction end of the first connecting arm 741a. For example, if a cylinder is used in the second pressing mechanism 743v2, the second connecting arm 742a may be fixed to the upper end of a rod extending above the cylinder. In this case, the second pressing mechanism 743v2 can raise and lower the second pressing member 742 by raising and lowering the second connecting arm 742a in the up-and-down direction, which is parallel to the Z axis.

[0233] The second B movement mechanism 743h2 includes, for example, a fifth guide portion 743h2g extending along the front-rear direction, which is a direction parallel to the Y axis, and a fifth block 743h2s to which the second pressing mechanism 743v2 is fixed. The fifth guide portion 743h2g may be fixed to, for example, the base portion 70. FIGS. 31 and 32 schematically show an example of a portion of the base portion 70 to which the fifth guide portion 743h2g is fixed. For example, a linear guide having a longitudinal direction along the front-rear direction may be applied to the fifth guide portion 743h2g. The fifth block 743h2s may be hooked onto the fifth guide portion 743h2g in a manner that allows it to move smoothly relative to the fifth guide portion 743h2g. The second-B movement mechanism 743h2 may further include, for example, a combination of a ball screw and a motor, a cylinder, or a linear motor as a part (also referred to as a fifth drive unit) that generates a driving force to move the fifth block 743h2s along the longitudinal direction of the fifth guide unit 743h2g. In FIGS. 31 and 32, the configurations of the fifth guide unit 743h2g and the fifth block 743h2s are shown in a simplified schematic form, and the fifth drive unit is not shown. Here, the movement of the fifth block 743h2s along the longitudinal direction of the fifth guide unit 743h2g allows the second pressing mechanism 743v2, the second connecting arm 742a, and the second pressing member 742 to move in the front-to-rear direction, which is parallel to the Y-axis. In FIG. 31, the direction of movement of the second pressing member 742 is indicated by a thin, two-dot chain arrow. In FIG. 32, the direction in which the fifth block 743h2s and the second pressing mechanism 743v2 move is indicated by a thin, two-dot chain arrow.

[0234] <1-1-5. Cleaning section> The cleaning unit 75 includes a cleaning tank 751. This cleaning unit 75 is a section where a process for cleaning the nozzle portion 731 (also referred to as a cleaning process) is performed when the nozzle tip portion 731t is located in the fourth area A4 in the cleaning tank 751.

[0235] Fig. 34 is a front view showing a schematic example of the overall configuration of the cleaning unit 75. In Fig. 34, the flow paths are shown by simplified solid lines. Note that the configuration of the cleaning unit 75 is not limited to the example shown in Fig. 34.

[0236] As shown in FIG. 34, for example, the cleaning tank 751 has an internal space (intra-tank space) 751s into which the nozzle portion 731 can be inserted from above. The cleaning tank 751 has an opening (upper opening) 751o through which the intra-tank space 751s opens upward. If the intra-tank space 751s has a shape with a longitudinal direction along the up-down direction, for example, it becomes possible to position a larger portion of the elongated nozzle portion 731 in the intra-tank space 751s. The nozzle portion 731 can be inserted into the intra-tank space 751s of the cleaning tank 751 through the upper opening 751o. In the example of FIG. 34, the outer edge of the nozzle portion 731 inserted into the intra-tank space 751s through the upper opening 751o of the cleaning tank 751 is schematically shown by a thin two-dot chain line. Here, for example, if the nozzle tip portion 731t is located at the lower part of the tank space 751s, a wider area of ​​the nozzle portion 731 may be located within the cleaning tank 751. As a result, a wider area of ​​the nozzle portion 731 may become a target for cleaning.

[0237] Here, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 , when the particle separation device 7 is viewed from above in the −Z direction as the second direction with the flow path device 100 installed on the installation unit 72, the arrangement unit 71 and the cleaning tank 751 may be aligned in a direction (also referred to as the ninth direction) that intersects with the third direction in which the first liquid supply unit 2 and the second liquid supply unit 3 are aligned. In the example of FIGS. 1 and 3 , the ninth direction is a direction perpendicular to the third direction, that is, the +X direction, and the +Y direction. The ninth direction may be the same as the seventh direction or may be different from the seventh direction. The ninth direction may be the same as the eighth direction or may be different from the eighth direction. The third direction and the ninth direction do not have to be orthogonal. Here, by aligning the arrangement unit 71 and the cleaning tank 751 in the ninth direction that intersects with the third direction, the width dimension of the particle separation device 7 in the third direction can be reduced. This allows the particle separator 7 to be made smaller.

[0238] Here, for example, the cleaning process performed by the cleaning unit 75 may include a process of cleaning the inside of the nozzle unit 731 (also referred to as an inside cleaning process) and a process of cleaning the outside of the nozzle unit 731 (also referred to as an outside cleaning process). The inside cleaning process and the outside cleaning process may be performed alternately, for example.

[0239] The inner cleaning process may include, for example, a first inner cleaning process and a second inner cleaning process. The first inner cleaning process may be, for example, a process in which the suction and discharge unit 733 causes the nozzle unit 731 to discharge a first cleaning liquid to clean the inside of the nozzle unit 731. The second inner cleaning process may be, for example, a process in which the suction and discharge unit 733 causes the nozzle unit 731 to discharge a second cleaning liquid to clean the inside of the nozzle unit 731. In Figure 34, an example of how various cleaning liquids are discharged from the nozzle tip portion 731t into the tank interior space 751s is schematically shown by arrows drawn with thin two-dot chain lines.

[0240] 29. In this case, for example, when first switching unit 734 is set to the third flow path state, suction and discharge unit 733 sucks and holds the first cleaning liquid from second supply source 7352, and then when first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, suction and discharge unit 733 discharges the first cleaning liquid from nozzle unit 731, thereby performing the first inside cleaning process. This operation may be realized by control by control unit 76. This control by control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of supply unit 73 by control unit 76. For example, when first switching unit 734 is set to the fourth flow path state, suction and discharge unit 733 sucks and holds the second cleaning liquid from third supply source 7353, and then when first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, suction and discharge unit 733 causes nozzle unit 731 to discharge the second cleaning liquid, thereby performing the second inside cleaning process. This operation may also be realized by control by control unit 76. This control by control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of supply unit 73 by control unit 76.

[0241] The outer cleaning process may include, for example, a first outer cleaning process and a second outer cleaning process. The first outer cleaning process may be, for example, a process in which a third cleaning liquid is introduced into the tank interior space 751s to store the third cleaning liquid in the tank interior space 751s, thereby immersing the nozzle portion 731 in the third cleaning liquid, and then discharging the third cleaning liquid from the tank interior space 751s, thereby cleaning the outer side of the nozzle portion 731. The second outer cleaning process may be, for example, a process in which a fourth cleaning liquid is introduced into the tank interior space 751s to store the fourth cleaning liquid in the tank interior space 751s, thereby immersing the nozzle portion 731 in the fourth cleaning liquid, and then discharging the fourth cleaning liquid from the tank interior space 751s, thereby cleaning the outer side of the nozzle portion 731.

[0242] The third cleaning liquid may be, for example, the same as or of the same type as the first cleaning liquid, and the fourth cleaning liquid may be, for example, the same as or of the same type as the second cleaning liquid. In this case, the cleaning process may be a process in which a first inner cleaning process and a first outer cleaning process are alternately performed, followed by a second inner cleaning process and a second outer cleaning process.

[0243] <<An example of a configuration for implementing an exterior cleaning process>> Here, an example of a configuration for realizing the outside cleaning process will be described.

[0244] For example, as shown in Fig. 34, the cleaning unit 75 may include a liquid supply unit 752 and a liquid discharge unit 753. In Fig. 34, an example of how various cleaning liquids are supplied into the cleaning tank 751 by the liquid supply unit 752 is schematically shown by arrows drawn with thin two-dot chain lines. In Fig. 34, an example of how liquids such as various cleaning liquids are discharged from the cleaning tank 751 by the liquid discharge unit 753 is schematically shown by arrows drawn with thin two-dot chain lines.

[0245] <<<Liquid supply section>>> The liquid supply unit 752 can selectively supply one of a third cleaning liquid and a fourth cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank 751. This liquid supply unit 752 may include, for example, as shown in Fig. 34, a first inflow port Po1, a first liquid delivery unit 7521, a second flow path switching unit (also referred to as a second switching unit) 7522, a fourth liquid supply source (also referred to as a fourth supply source) 7523, and a fifth liquid supply source (also referred to as a fifth supply source) 7524.

[0246] The first inflow port Po1 is a portion through which liquid flows from the outside of the cleaning tank 751 into the tank interior space 751s. The first inflow port Po1 is located, for example, in the upper portion of the cleaning tank 751. Specifically, the first inflow port Po1 may be, for example, a tubular portion having a flow path leading to an opening (also referred to as a first inflow opening) on ​​the upper inner circumferential surface of the cleaning tank 751. The first inflow port Po1 may be, for example, a tubular member inserted into the upper opening 751o of the cleaning tank 751. A first liquid supply unit 7521 and a second switching unit 7522 are interposed in the flow path connecting the first inflow port Po1 and the fourth supply source 7523. A first liquid supply unit 7521 and a second switching unit 7522 are interposed in the flow path connecting the first inflow port Po1 and the fifth supply source 7524.

[0247] The first liquid supply unit 7521 may be a part capable of supplying liquid using a pump such as a diaphragm pump. The first liquid supply unit 7521 and the first inflow port Po1 may be connected via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the first liquid supply unit 7521 and the first inflow port Po1 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path. The operation of the first liquid supply unit 7521 may be realized by control by the control unit 76, for example.

[0248] The fourth supply source 7523 may be, for example, a bottomed tank or container that stores the third cleaning liquid, and the fifth supply source 7524 may be, for example, a bottomed tank or container that stores the fourth cleaning liquid.

[0249] Second switching unit 7522 may be selectively set to any one of a plurality of flow path states including a fifth flow path state and a sixth flow path state. The fifth flow path state is a flow path state in which first fluid delivery unit 7521 and fourth supply source 7523 communicate with each other. The sixth flow path state is a flow path state in which first fluid delivery unit 7521 and fifth supply source 7524 communicate with each other. This flow path state may refer to a flow path state in which fluid can flow in second switching unit 7522. The flow path state in second switching unit 7522 may be set by, for example, control of second switching unit 7522 by control unit 76.

[0250] Here, for example, when the second switching unit 7522 is set to the fifth flow path state, the first liquid delivery unit 7521 may be able to deliver the third cleaning liquid from the fourth supply source 7523 toward the first inflow port Po1. This operation may be achieved by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of the liquid supply unit 752 by the control unit 76. This allows the third cleaning liquid to flow from the first inflow port Po1 into the tank space 751s. Also, for example, when the second switching unit 7522 is set to the sixth flow path state, the first liquid delivery unit 7521 may be able to deliver the fourth cleaning liquid from the fifth supply source 7524 toward the first inflow port Po1. This operation may be achieved by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of the liquid supply unit 752 by the control unit 76. This allows the fourth cleaning liquid to flow from the first inflow port Po1 into the tank space 751s. In other words, the liquid supply unit 752 can selectively supply one of the third cleaning liquid and the fourth cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank 751 under the control of, for example, the control unit 76. This makes it possible to easily supply the third cleaning liquid or the fourth cleaning liquid to the cleaning tank 751.

[0251] Here, for example, there are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the second switching unit 7522, as long as the second switching unit 7522 has a configuration that can selectively set the flow path state to any one of a plurality of flow path states including the fifth flow path state and the sixth flow path state.

[0252] For example, as shown in FIG. 34 , the second switching unit 7522 may include a mechanism (also referred to as a fourth switching mechanism) 75221 for setting the fifth flow path state. The fourth switching mechanism 75221 has, for example, a fourth A port M4, a fourth B port O4, and a fourth C port C4. This fourth switching mechanism 75221 may be selectively set to, for example, either a state in which fluid can flow between the fourth A port M4 and the fourth B port O4 (also referred to as a fourth A state) or a state in which fluid can flow between the fourth A port M4 and the fourth C port C4 (also referred to as a fourth B state). A three-way valve, for example, may be used as the fourth switching mechanism 75221. The three-way valve may be, for example, a so-called three-way electromagnetic valve.

[0253] The 4A port M4 may be connected to the first liquid supply unit 7521 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the first liquid supply unit 7521 and the 4A port M4 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or for switching the flow path.

[0254] The fourth-B port O4 may be connected to the fresh air port 7525 via, for example, one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. Mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path may be interposed in the flow path connecting the fourth-B port O4 and the fresh air port 7525. In the example of Fig. 34, a fifth switching mechanism 75222 (described later) is interposed in the flow path connecting the fourth-B port O4 and the fresh air port 7525 as an example of mechanisms such as various valves.

[0255] The fourth C port C4 may be connected to the fourth supply source 7523 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. For example, if the fourth supply source 7523 is a tank with a bottom, the fourth C port C4 and the fourth supply source 7523 may be connected via a member having a flow path connected to a through-hole that opens into the internal space of the tank at the bottom of the tank. Furthermore, if the fourth supply source 7523 is a tank or container with a bottom, the fourth C port C4 and the fourth supply source 7523 may be connected via a tubular member inserted into the tank or container from above. The flow path connecting the fourth C port C4 and the fourth supply source 7523 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path.

[0256] For example, as shown in FIG. 34 , the second switching unit 7522 may include a mechanism (also referred to as a fifth switching mechanism) 75222 for setting the sixth flow path state. The fifth switching mechanism 75222 has, for example, a 5A port M5, a 5B port O5, and a 5C port C5. This fifth switching mechanism 75222 may be selectively set to, for example, either a state in which fluid can flow between the 5A port M5 and the 5B port O5 (also referred to as a 5A state) or a state in which fluid can flow between the 5A port M5 and the 5C port C5 (also referred to as a 5B state). A three-way valve, for example, may be used as the fifth switching mechanism 75222. The three-way valve may be, for example, a so-called three-way electromagnetic valve.

[0257] The 5A port M5 may be connected to the first liquid supply unit 7521 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the first liquid supply unit 7521 and the 5A port M5 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path. In the example of Fig. 34, the flow path connecting the first liquid supply unit 7521 and the 5A port M5 includes a fourth switching mechanism 75221 as an example of mechanisms such as various valves.

[0258] The 5B port O5 may be connected to the outside air port 7525 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the 5B port O5 and the outside air port 7525 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or for switching the flow path.

[0259] The fifth-C port C5 may be connected to the fifth supply source 7524 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. For example, if the fifth supply source 7524 is a tank with a bottom, the fifth-C port C5 and the fifth supply source 7524 may be connected via a member having a flow path connected to a through-hole that opens into the internal space of the tank at the bottom of the tank. Furthermore, if the fifth supply source 7524 is a tank or container with a bottom, the fifth-C port C5 and the fifth supply source 7524 may be connected via a tubular member inserted into the tank or container from above. The flow path connecting the fifth-C port C5 and the fifth supply source 7524 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path.

[0260] 34 , for example, when the fourth switching mechanism 75221 is set to the 4B state, the second switching unit 7522 is set to the fifth flow path state. For example, when the fourth switching mechanism 75221 is set to the 4A state and the fifth switching mechanism 75222 is set to the 5B state, the second switching unit 7522 is set to the sixth flow path state. For example, when the fourth switching mechanism 75221 is set to the 4A state and the fifth switching mechanism 75222 is set to the 5A state, the second switching unit 7522 is set to a state in which the first liquid delivery unit 7521 and the outside air port 7525 are in communication.

[0261] <<<Liquid discharge section>>> The liquid discharge part 753 can discharge the liquid from inside the cleaning tank 751. This liquid discharge part 753 may include, for example, a first discharge port Po2, a second liquid supply part 7531, and a waste liquid part 7532, as shown in FIG.

[0262] The first discharge port Po2 is a portion that discharges the liquid in the cleaning tank 751 from the lower portion of the cleaning tank 751. The first discharge port Po2 is located, for example, at the lower portion of the cleaning tank 751. Specifically, the first discharge port Po2 may be, for example, a tubular portion having a flow path that leads to an opening (also referred to as a first discharge opening) at the lowermost portion or bottom surface of the inner circumferential surface of the cleaning tank 751. A second liquid supply portion 7531 is interposed in the flow path that connects the first discharge port Po2 and the waste liquid portion 7532.

[0263] The second liquid supply unit 7531 may be a part that can supply liquid using a pump such as a diaphragm pump. The second liquid supply unit 7531 and the first discharge port Po2 may be connected via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the second liquid supply unit 7531 and the first discharge port Po2 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or for switching the flow path.

[0264] The waste liquid section 7532 may be, for example, a tank or container that stores liquid, or may be the end of a pipe that discharges liquid to another flow path or device.

[0265] Here, for example, the second liquid supply unit 7531 can supply liquid from inside the cleaning tank 751 toward the waste liquid unit 7532 via the first discharge port Po2. The operation of the second liquid supply unit 7531 may be realized, for example, by control by the control unit 76. This allows the liquid to be discharged from the tank interior space 751s via the first discharge port Po2.

[0266] <> The cleaning process performed in the cleaning unit 75 may include, for example, a first cleaning process and a second cleaning process. The cleaning process may be, for example, a process in which the first cleaning process is performed followed by the second cleaning process.

[0267] The first cleaning process may be performed by repeating, for example, operation 1A and operation 1B. The number of times that operation 1A and operation 1B are repeated may be set to any number of times equal to or greater than two, such as two, three, or four times. This first cleaning process may be performed by, for example, the control unit 76 controlling the operation of each unit of the particle separator 7. In other words, the first cleaning process may be performed by, for example, the control unit 76.

[0268] The 1A operation may be, for example, an operation in which the suction and discharge unit 733 causes the nozzle unit 731 to discharge the first cleaning liquid, and the liquid discharge unit 753 discharges the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. According to this 1A operation, the inside of the nozzle unit 731 can be cleaned with the first cleaning liquid. Here, for example, assume that the supply unit 73 has a configuration as shown in FIG. 29 . In this case, for example, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the third flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 can suck and hold the first cleaning liquid from the second supply source 7352, and then when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 can discharge the first cleaning liquid from the nozzle unit 731. This operation may be realized by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of the supply unit 73 by the control unit 76. Here, for example, it is assumed that the liquid discharge unit 753 of the cleaning unit 75 has the configuration shown in Fig. 34. In this case, for example, the second liquid supply unit 7531 sends the liquid from the cleaning tank 751 toward the waste liquid unit 7532 via the first discharge port Po2, thereby allowing the liquid discharge unit 753 to discharge the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. This operation may be realized by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the second liquid supply unit 7531 by the control unit 76.

[0269] Operation 1B may be, for example, an operation in which the liquid supply unit 752 supplies the third cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank 751 to immerse the nozzle unit 731 in the third cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 751, and the liquid discharge unit 753 discharges the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 34 , with the nozzle unit 731 inserted into the tank space 751s through the upper opening 751o of the cleaning tank 751, the liquid supply unit 752 supplies the third cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank 751 to store the third cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 751. This allows the nozzle unit 731 to be immersed in the third cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 751. Thereafter, the liquid discharge unit 753 discharges the third cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 751. According to Operation 1B, the outside of the nozzle unit 731 can be cleaned with the third cleaning liquid. Here, for example, it is assumed that the liquid supply unit 752 of the cleaning unit 75 has the configuration shown in FIG. 34. In this case, for example, when the second switching unit 7522 is set to the fifth flow path state, the first liquid delivery unit 7521 delivers the third cleaning liquid from the fourth supply source 7523 toward the first inflow port Po1, thereby allowing the liquid supply unit 752 to supply the third cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank 751. This operation may be realized by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of the liquid supply unit 752 by the control unit 76. Here, for example, it is assumed that the liquid discharge unit 753 of the cleaning unit 75 has the configuration shown in FIG. 34. In this case, for example, the second liquid delivery unit 7531 delivers the liquid from the cleaning tank 751 toward the waste liquid unit 7532 via the first discharge port Po2, thereby allowing the liquid discharge unit 753 to discharge the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. This operation may be realized by the control of the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the second liquid delivery unit 7531 by the control unit 76.

[0270] The second cleaning process may be performed by repeating, for example, operation 2A and operation 2B. The number of times that operation 2A and operation 2B are repeated may be set to any number of times equal to or greater than two, such as two, three, or four times. This second cleaning process may be performed by, for example, the control unit 76 controlling the operation of each unit of the particle separator 7. In other words, the second cleaning process may be performed by, for example, the control unit 76.

[0271] The second A operation may be, for example, an operation in which the suction and discharge unit 733 causes the nozzle unit 731 to discharge the second cleaning liquid, and the liquid discharge unit 753 discharges the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. According to this second A operation, the inside of the nozzle unit 731 can be cleaned with the second cleaning liquid. Here, for example, assume that the supply unit 73 has the configuration shown in FIG. 29 . In this case, for example, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the fourth flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 can suction and hold the second cleaning liquid from the third supply source 7353, and then, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 can discharge the second cleaning liquid from the nozzle unit 731. This operation may be realized by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of the supply unit 73 by the control unit 76. Here, for example, it is assumed that the liquid discharge unit 753 of the cleaning unit 75 has the configuration shown in Fig. 34. In this case, for example, the second liquid supply unit 7531 sends the liquid from the cleaning tank 751 toward the waste liquid unit 7532 via the first discharge port Po2, thereby allowing the liquid discharge unit 753 to discharge the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. This operation may be realized by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the second liquid supply unit 7531 by the control unit 76.

[0272] Operation 2B may be, for example, an operation in which the liquid supply unit 752 supplies a fourth cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank 751 to immerse the nozzle unit 731 in the fourth cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 751, and the liquid discharge unit 753 discharges the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 34 , with the nozzle unit 731 inserted into the tank space 751s through the upper opening 751o of the cleaning tank 751, the liquid supply unit 752 supplies the fourth cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank 751 to store the fourth cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 751. This allows the nozzle unit 731 to be immersed in the fourth cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 751. Thereafter, the liquid discharge unit 753 discharges the fourth cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 751. According to Operation 2B, the outside of the nozzle unit 731 can be cleaned with the fourth cleaning liquid. Here, for example, it is assumed that the liquid supply unit 752 of the cleaning unit 75 has the configuration shown in FIG. 34. In this case, for example, when the second switching unit 7522 is set to the sixth flow path state, the first liquid delivery unit 7521 delivers the fourth cleaning liquid from the fifth supply source 7524 toward the first inflow port Po1, thereby allowing the liquid supply unit 752 to supply the fourth cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank 751. This operation may be realized by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of each unit of the liquid supply unit 752 by the control unit 76. Here, for example, it is assumed that the liquid discharge unit 753 of the cleaning unit 75 has the configuration shown in FIG. 34. In this case, for example, the second liquid delivery unit 7531 delivers the liquid from the cleaning tank 751 toward the waste liquid unit 7532 via the first discharge port Po2, thereby allowing the liquid discharge unit 753 to discharge the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. This operation may be realized by the control of the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the second liquid delivery unit 7531 by the control unit 76.

[0273] As described above, the cleaning process including the first cleaning process and the second cleaning process is performed in the cleaning unit 75, whereby the inside and outside of the nozzle part 731 can be cleaned efficiently with a simple configuration, and the particle separation device 7 can be made smaller.

[0274] <1-1-6. Control Unit> 35 is a block diagram showing a schematic example of the overall configuration of the control unit 76. Note that the configuration of the control unit 76 is not limited to the example shown in FIG.

[0275] The control unit 76 may be capable of controlling the operation of each element, such as the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, and the cleaning unit 75. The control unit 76 may be, for example, a computer or a control circuit. The control unit 76 may include at least one processor to provide control and processing power for performing various functions, as described in more detail below.

[0276] According to various embodiments, the at least one processor may be implemented in a single integrated circuit (IC) or in a plurality of communicatively coupled ICs and / or discrete circuits. The at least one processor may be implemented according to various known techniques.

[0277] In one embodiment, a processor includes one or more circuits or units configured to perform one or more data computational procedures or processes, for example, by executing instructions stored in associated memory. In another embodiment, a processor may be firmware (e.g., discrete logic components) configured to perform one or more data computational procedures or processes.

[0278] According to various embodiments, the processor may include one or more processors, controllers, microprocessors, microcontrollers, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors, programmable logic devices, field programmable gate arrays, or any combination of these devices or configurations, or other known combinations of devices and configurations, to perform the functions described below.

[0279] In one example of the first embodiment, the control unit 76 may include, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) 761 and a storage unit 762. The storage unit 762 may include a non-transitory recording medium readable by the CPU 761, such as a read-only memory (ROM) and a random access memory (RAM). The storage unit 762 may store one or more programs Pg1 for controlling the various elements of the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, and the cleaning unit 75. Various functions of the control unit 76 may be realized by the CPU 761 executing one or more programs Pg1 in the storage unit 762.

[0280] The configuration of the control unit 76 is not limited to the above example. For example, the control unit 76 may include multiple CPUs 761. The control unit 76 may also include at least one digital signal processor (DSP). All or some of the functions of the control unit 76 may be implemented by hardware circuits that do not require software to implement the functions. The storage unit 762 may also include a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium other than ROM and RAM. The storage unit 762 may also include, for example, a small hard disk drive and / or a solid state drive (SSD).

[0281] <1-2. Example of the effect of particle separator> As described above, the particle separation device 7 according to the first embodiment includes the arrangement unit 71, the installation unit 72, the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, the cleaning unit 75, and the control unit 76. According to this configuration, when the first container 501 storing the first liquid L1 is arranged in the arrangement unit 71 and the flow path device 100 is installed in the installation unit 72, the supply unit 73 performs the first supply operation, whereby the nozzle unit 731 supplies the first liquid L1 to the first space 2sp of the first liquid supply unit 2 of the flow path device 100, and the supply unit 73 performs the second supply operation, whereby the nozzle unit 731 supplies the second liquid L2 to the second space 3sp of the second liquid supply unit 3 of the flow path device 100. Therefore, one nozzle portion 731 in the supply unit 73 can supply the first liquid L1 to the first space 2sp of the first liquid supply unit 2 of the flow path device 100, and supply the second liquid L2 to the second space 3sp of the second liquid supply unit 3 of the flow path device 100. In the first liquid supply unit 2, when the first liquid L1 is stored in the first space 2sp, the pressing unit 74 performs the first pressing operation. This causes the first movable member 22 to be pressed toward the first inlet 1o by the first pressing member 741 while the first introduction portion 222 is blocked from the +Z direction side, which is the first direction. This allows the first liquid L1 to be introduced into the flow path unit 11 from within the first space 2sp via the first introduction hole 121. In the second liquid supply unit 3, when the second liquid L2 is stored in the second space 3sp, the pressing unit 74 performs the second pressing operation. This causes the second introduction portion 322 to be blocked by the second pressing member 742 from the +Z direction side, which is the first direction, and the second movable member 32 to be pressed toward the second introduction port 2o by the second pressing member 742. This allows the second liquid L2 to be introduced from the second space 3sp into the flow path portion 11 through the second introduction hole 122. This reduces the number of parts required to introduce the first liquid L1 and the second liquid L2 into the flow path portion 11 of the flow path device 100. Furthermore, the pressing unit 74 can be reused, and one nozzle portion 731 can be cleaned by a cleaning process in the cleaning unit 75 and reused.As a result, when the first liquid L1 is changed, it is sufficient to replace the flow path device 100, and consumables that previously had to be replaced every time the first liquid L1 is changed, such as switching units such as three-way valves, tubular members such as tubes, connector members, and liquid supply units and suction / discharge units each including a syringe, can be reduced. That is, the number of consumables required to introduce liquid into the flow path unit 11 of the flow path device 100 can be reduced. Therefore, for example, resource conservation can be achieved by reducing the amount of consumable materials used. Furthermore, for example, the reduction in consumables can reduce the cost and man-hours required for the preparation process for introducing the first liquid L1 and the second liquid L2 into the flow path device 100.

[0282] Furthermore, for example, it is possible to reduce the work of attaching and detaching a connector member to and from the flow path device 100 and removing a supply device such as a syringe from a tubular member, which can reduce adhesion of the first liquid L1 to the user and the surrounding work space due to splashing of the first liquid L1.

[0283] Furthermore, for example, the reduction in the work of replacing consumables can reduce other work such as the setting work of arranging the first container 501 and installing the flow path device 100. This can facilitate automation of the introduction of the first liquid L1 and the second liquid L2 into the flow path section 11, for example.

[0284] <1-3. Other configurations of particle separator> 36 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a configuration connected to each of the second outlet 4o and the third outlet 5o. Similar to FIG. 15, the outer edge of the flow path device 100 is omitted in FIG. 36, and the outer edges of the flow path section 11 and the plurality of holes 12 of the flow path device 100 are depicted with solid lines. FIG. 36 illustrates an example of a configuration connected to the second outlet 124 via a flow path 726 and an example of a configuration connected to the third outlet 125 via a flow path 727 by installing the flow path device 100 in the installation section 72. Here, an example will be described in which the installation section 72 includes a configuration connected to the second outlet 124 via the flow path 726 and a configuration connected to the third outlet 125 via the flow path 727.

[0285] 36, the installation section 72 may include, for example, a suction mechanism 8, a third flow path switching section (also referred to as a third switching section) 5, and a first opening / closing mechanism 4. The suction mechanism 8 may be connected to a flow path 726 via the third switching section 5, for example. The first opening / closing mechanism 4 may be connected to a flow path 727, for example.

[0286] <<Suction mechanism and third switching unit>> The suction mechanism 8 may be, for example, a mechanism capable of sucking a fluid. For example, a mechanism capable of sucking a fluid such as a liquid or a gas using a pump such as a syringe pump or a diaphragm pump may be applied to the suction mechanism 8. The operation of the suction mechanism 8 may be controlled by, for example, the control unit 76. In this case, the control unit 76 may be able to control, for example, the start and stop of the suction of the fluid by the suction mechanism 8, the amount of fluid sucked per unit time by the suction mechanism 8 (also referred to as the first suction speed), and the like.

[0287] The third switching unit 5 may be, for example, a mechanism capable of switching a flow path through which a fluid can flow. For example, the third switching unit 5 may be capable of switching a flow path through which a fluid can flow between a state in which the flow path 726 and the suction mechanism 8 are connected (also referred to as a suction-enabled state) and a state in which the flow path 726 and a drain port are connected (also referred to as a first open state). When the flow path device 100 is installed in the installation unit 72, the suction-enabled state may be a state in which the second discharge hole 124 and the suction mechanism 8 are connected, or a state in which the suction mechanism 8 can suck a fluid through the second discharge hole 124. Furthermore, when the flow path device 100 is installed in the installation unit 72, the first open state may be a state in which the second discharge hole 124 and a drain port are connected. The third switching unit 5 may include, for example, a mechanism capable of switching a flow path, such as one or more three-way valves (also referred to as a flow path switching mechanism). The drain port may be, for example, an opening that is opened at the end of the flow path. For example, the drain may be the end of a pipe. The drain may function as an exhaust port or may be an exhaust port.

[0288] In the example of FIG. 36 , the third switching unit 5 is connected to the second discharge hole 124 via the flow path 726 in a state where fluid can flow therethrough. The suction mechanism 8 is connected to the third switching unit 5 in a state where fluid can flow therethrough. The drain port is connected to the third switching unit 5 in a state where fluid can flow therethrough. The third switching unit 5 includes a first flow path switching mechanism (also referred to as a sixth switching mechanism) 51 and a second flow path switching mechanism (also referred to as a seventh switching mechanism) 52. Note that the configuration of the third switching unit 5 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 36 .

[0289] The sixth switching mechanism 51 has, for example, a 6A port M6, a 6B port O6, and a 6C port C6. The sixth switching mechanism 51 may be selectively set to, for example, either a state in which a fluid can flow between the 6A port M6 and the 6B port O6 (also referred to as a 6A state) or a state in which a fluid can flow between the 6A port M6 and the 6C port C6 (also referred to as a 6B state). A three-way valve, for example, may be used for the sixth switching mechanism 51. The three-way valve may be, for example, a three-way valve known as a three-way solenoid valve. The 6A port M6 may be connected to the flow path 726 in a fluid-communicating state. Therefore, the 6A port M6 may be connected to the second discharge hole 124 via the flow path 726 in a fluid-communicating state. The 6B port O6 may be in communication with a drain port. The 6B port O6 may be connected to a drain port via a tubular member such as a tube, or may function as a drain port. The 6C port C6 may communicate with the seventh switching mechanism 52. The 6C port C6 may be connected to the seventh switching mechanism 52 via a tubular member such as a tube, or may be connected directly to the seventh switching mechanism 52.

[0290] The seventh switching mechanism 52 has, for example, a 7A port M7, a 7B port O7, and a 7C port C7. The seventh switching mechanism 52 may be selectively set to, for example, either a state in which fluid can flow between the 7A port M7 and the 7B port O7 (also referred to as a 7A state) or a state in which fluid can flow between the 7A port M7 and the 7C port C7 (also referred to as a 7B state). A three-way valve, for example, may be used for the seventh switching mechanism 52. For example, a three-way valve known as a three-way solenoid valve may be used as the three-way valve. The 7A port M7 may be connected to the suction mechanism 8 in a state in which fluid can flow therethrough. The 7A port M7 may be connected to the suction mechanism 8 via a tubular member such as a tube, or may be connected directly to the suction mechanism 8. The 7B port O7 may be connected to a drainage port. The 7B port O7 may be connected to a drain port via a tubular member such as a tube, or may function as a drain port. The 7C port C7 may communicate with the 6C port C6. The 7C port C7 may be connected to the 6C port C6 via a tubular member such as a tube, or may be directly connected to the 6C port C6.

[0291] The operation of the third switching unit 5 may be controlled by, for example, the control unit 76. For example, the setting of the suction enabled state and the first open state by the third switching unit 5 may be controlled by the control unit 76. More specifically, the operation of the sixth switching mechanism 51 and the seventh switching mechanism 52 may be controlled by, for example, the control unit 76. For example, the setting of the 6A state and the 6B state by the sixth switching mechanism 51 may be controlled by the control unit 76. For example, the setting of the 7A state and the 7B state by the seventh switching mechanism 52 may be controlled by, for example, the control unit 76. In the example of FIG. 36 , the sixth switching mechanism 51 is set to the 6A state, thereby setting the third switching unit 5 to the first open state. The sixth switching mechanism 51 is set to the 6B state and the seventh switching mechanism 52 is set to the 7B state, thereby setting the third switching unit 5 to the suction enabled state.

[0292] <<First opening / closing mechanism>> The first opening and closing mechanism 4 may be connected to, for example, the flow path 727. In other words, the first opening and closing mechanism 4 may be connected to, for example, the flow path 727 in a state where fluid can flow therethrough. By installing the flow path device 100 on the installation section 72, the first opening and closing mechanism 4 may be connected to the third discharge hole 125 via the flow path 727. In other words, the third discharge hole 125 and the first opening and closing mechanism 4 may be connected via the flow path 727 in a state where fluid can flow therethrough.

[0293] The first opening / closing mechanism 4 may be a mechanism that can selectively set, for example, when the flow path device 100 is installed in the installation section 72, either to a state in which fluid can flow from the third discharge hole 125 to the outside of the main body 1 (also referred to as a first open state) or to a state in which fluid flow from the third discharge hole 125 to the outside of the main body 1 is prevented (also referred to as a first closed state). The first closed state may be, for example, a state in which fluid cannot flow from the third discharge hole 125 to the outside of the main body 1, or a state in which fluid is less likely to flow from the third discharge hole 125 to the outside of the main body 1 than in the first open state. For example, the first open state may be a state in which the third discharge hole 125 and an exhaust port or a drainage port outside the main body 1 are in communication via a flow path (also referred to as a first open state). For example, the first closed state may be a state (also referred to as a first closed state) in which third discharge hole 125 and an exhaust port or a drain port outside main body unit 1 are not in communication with each other via a flow path. For example, the state in which it is more difficult for fluid to flow from third discharge hole 125 to the outside of main body unit 1 compared to the first open state may include a state in which some fluid can flow from third discharge hole 125 to the outside of main body unit 1. From another perspective, for example, the first closed state may be a state in which resistance to the flow of fluid from third discharge hole 125 to the outside of main body unit 1 is greater than that in the first open state. In other words, for example, resistance to the flow of fluid from third discharge hole 125 to the outside of main body unit 1 in the first closed state may be greater than resistance to the flow of fluid from third discharge hole 125 to the outside of main body unit 1 in the first open state.

[0294] For example, the first opening / closing mechanism 4 may be selectively set to either a state in which the third discharge hole 125 and the drain outlet are in communication with each other, or a state in which the third discharge hole 125 and the drain outlet are not in communication with each other. In other words, for example, the first opening / closing mechanism 4 may be set to a first open state by setting the third discharge hole 125 and the drain outlet in communication with each other, or may be set to a first closed state by setting the third discharge hole 125 and the drain outlet in communication with each other. The first opening / closing mechanism 4 may include, for example, one or more valves (also referred to as first valves). The drain outlet may be, for example, an opening that is open at the end of a flow path. For example, the drain outlet may be the end of a pipe. The drain outlet may function as an exhaust port or may be an exhaust port.

[0295] 36, the first opening and closing mechanism 4 is connected to the third discharge hole 125 via the flow path 727 in a state in which fluid can flow therethrough. A drain port is connected to the first opening and closing mechanism 4 in a state in which fluid can flow therethrough. The first opening and closing mechanism 4 includes, for example, a third flow path switching mechanism (also referred to as an eighth switching mechanism) 41 as a first valve. Note that the configuration of the first opening and closing mechanism 4 is not limited to the example shown in FIG.

[0296] The eighth switching mechanism 41 has, for example, an 8A port M8, an 8B port O8, and an 8C port C8. The eighth switching mechanism 41 may be selectively set to, for example, either a state in which a fluid can flow between the 8A port M8 and the 8B port O8 (also referred to as an 8A state) or a state in which a fluid can flow between the 8A port M8 and the 8C port C8 (also referred to as an 8B state). A three-way valve, for example, may be used as the eighth switching mechanism 41. The three-way valve may be, for example, a three-way valve known as a three-way solenoid valve.

[0297] The 8A port M8 may be connected to a drain port. The 8A port M8 may be connected to a drain port via a tubular member such as a tube, or may function as a drain port. The 8B port O8 may be connected to the flow path 727 in a manner allowing fluid communication therebetween. Thus, the 8B port O8 may be connected to the third discharge hole 125 via the flow path 727 in a manner allowing fluid communication therebetween. The 8C port C8 may be connected to an exhaust port. The 8C port C8 may be connected to an exhaust port via a tubular member such as a tube, or may function as an exhaust port. The exhaust port may be, for example, an opening that is open at the end of a flow path. For example, the exhaust port may be the end of a pipe.

[0298] The operation of the first opening / closing mechanism 4 may be controlled by, for example, the control unit 76. For example, the setting of the first opening / closing mechanism 4 to the first open state and the first closed state may be controlled by the control unit 76. More specifically, the operation of the eighth switching mechanism 41 may be controlled by, for example, the control unit 76. For example, the setting of the eighth switching mechanism 41 to the 8A state and the 8B state may be controlled by the control unit 76. In the example of FIG. 36 , when the eighth switching mechanism 41 is set to the 8A state, the first opening / closing mechanism 4 is set to the first open state. When the eighth switching mechanism 41 is set to the 8B state, the first opening / closing mechanism 4 is set to the first closed state. In other words, the eighth switching mechanism 41 as the first valve can be set to the first open state. The eighth switching mechanism 41 as the first valve can be set to the first closed state.

[0299] <1-4. Example of particle separator operation> FIG. 37 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation flow of the particle separator 7. FIG. 37 shows an example of the operation flow of the particle separator 7 after the first container 501 has been placed in the placement unit 71 and the flow path device 100 has been installed in the installation unit 72. This example of the operation flow of the particle separator 7 is an example of the operation flow of the particle separator 7 when a process is performed in which a first liquid L1 and a second liquid L2 are introduced into the flow path section 11 of the flow path device 100 to separate a plurality of particles of a specific type from the first liquid L1. This example of the operation of the particle separator 7 can be achieved, for example, by the control unit 76 controlling the operation of each part of the particle separator 7. FIGS. 38, 39, and 43 to 49 each schematically show an example of the state of the particle separator 7 during operation. FIGS. 40 to 42 each are schematic diagrams for explaining an example of a process (also referred to as a filling process) in which the flow path section 11 of the flow path device 100 is filled with the second liquid L2. In Figures 39 to 47, the region where the first liquid L1 exists is hatched with a matte finish, and the region where the second liquid L2 exists is hatched with diagonal lines sloping upward to the right. In Figures 40 to 42, the direction in which the second liquid L2 flows is indicated by thin, two-dot chain arrows.

[0300] 37 are performed in the particle separator 7. In other words, for example, in a state in which the first container 501 is placed in the placement unit 71 and the flow path device 100 is placed in the installation unit 72, the control unit 76 controls the operations of the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, and the cleaning unit 75, thereby causing the particle separator 7 to perform the steps S1 to S8. In other words, the control method for the particle separator 7 may include the steps S1 to S8.

[0301] 37, for example, after step S1 is performed, step S2 and steps S3 to S7 are performed in parallel, and finally step S8 is performed.

[0302] <<Step S1 Process>> In the process of step S1, the second supply operation described above is performed. This second supply operation may be, for example, an operation in which the first moving mechanism 732 moves the nozzle portion 731 to position the nozzle tip portion 731t in the third area A3 of the second liquid supply portion 3, and the nozzle portion 731 discharges the second liquid L2 into the second space 3sp of the second liquid supply portion 3. Here, for example, the suction and discharge portion 733 may discharge the second liquid L2 into the second space 3sp of the second liquid supply portion 3 by the nozzle portion 731.

[0303] 38 shows, as an example of the particle separator 7 during operation in step S1, a state in which the second liquid L2 is being discharged into the second space 3sp from the nozzle tip portion 731t of the nozzle part 731. In Fig. 38, the direction in which the second liquid L2 is being discharged from the nozzle tip portion 731t is indicated by a thin, two-dot chain arrow.

[0304] Here, for example, under the control of the control unit 76, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the second flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may suck in and hold the second liquid L2 from the first supply source 7351, and then when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may discharge the second liquid L2 through the nozzle unit 731. In the process of step S1, the second liquid L2 is stored in the second space 3sp of the second liquid supply unit 3 due to the second supply operation.

[0305] When the second supply operation is performed in step S1, for example, the second moving mechanism 743h may position the first pressing member 741 at the first retracted position Pe1 and the second pressing member 742 at the second retracted position Pe2.

[0306] <<Step S2 Process>> Step S2 is performed after step S1. In step S2, a first introduction operation is performed. In other words, the first introduction operation is performed after the second supply operation described above. This first introduction operation may be, for example, an operation in which the drive mechanism 743 causes the second pressing member 742 to press the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o, thereby causing the second liquid supply unit 3 to introduce the second liquid L2 from within the second space 3sp into the flow path portion 11 via the second introduction hole 122. More specifically, this first introduction operation may be, for example, an operation in which the second pressing mechanism 743v2 causes the second pressing member 742 to press the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o, thereby causing the second liquid supply unit 3 to introduce the second liquid L2 from within the second space 3sp into the flow path portion 11 via the second introduction hole 122. When this first introduction operation is performed, the first introduction operation may be realized by performing the second pressing operation described above.

[0307] 39 shows an example of the particle separator 7 during operation in step S2, in which the second movable member 32 is pressed toward the second inlet 2o by the second pressing member 742. In FIG. 39, the direction in which the second movable member 32 is pressed by the second pressing member 742 is indicated by a thin, two-dot chain arrow.

[0308] When the first introduction operation is performed in step S2, for example, the second moving mechanism 743h may position the first pressing member 741 at the first retracted position Pe1 using the secondA moving mechanism 743h1, and may position the second pressing member 742 at the second pressing position Pp2 using the secondB moving mechanism 743h2.

[0309] In step S2, a filling step is performed in which the flow path section 11 is filled with the second liquid L2 before the start of step S7. Here, an example of the filling step will be described with reference to FIGS. 40 to 42. The filling step may include, for example, a first filling step, a second filling step, and a third filling step. In this filling step, the second liquid L2 functions as a pre-treatment liquid. The pre-treatment liquid is a pre-treatment liquid that fills the flow path section 11 with liquid in advance before separating the multiple particles contained in the first liquid L1 in the flow path section 11, thereby facilitating the separation of the multiple particles.

[0310] In the first filling step, for example, the first open state is set by the first opening / closing mechanism 4, and the second liquid L2 is supplied by the second liquid supply unit 3 toward the main channel 111 via the second inlet hole 122 and the second inlet flow path 114. As a result, in the state set to the first open state, the second liquid L2 is supplied toward the main channel 111 via the second inlet hole 122 and the second inlet flow path 114. As a result, as shown in Fig. 40 , the region Ar1 (also referred to as the first filled region) extending from the second inlet hole 122 through the second inlet flow path 114, the main channel 111, and the third outlet flow path 117 to the third outlet hole 125 is filled with the second liquid L2.

[0311] Here, the width of the main channel 111 is greater than the width of each of the plurality of branch channels 112, and the resistance to the flow of the second liquid L2 in the main channel 111 from the first upstream section 111u to the first downstream section 111d is smaller than the resistance to the flow of the second liquid L2 from upstream to downstream (second downstream section) 112d in each of the plurality of branch channels 112. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 40, a flow of the second liquid L2 toward the first inlet hole 121 via the first inlet channel 113 and a flow of the second liquid L2 from the first upstream section 111u to the first downstream section 111d in the main channel 111 occur. Furthermore, a case is assumed in which the resistance to the flow of the second liquid L2 from the first downstream section 111d toward the first outlet hole 123 via the first outlet channel 115 is greater than the resistance to the flow of the second liquid L2 from the first downstream section 111d toward the third outlet hole 125 via the third outlet channel 117. 40, the second liquid L2 does not easily flow from the first downstream portion 111d into the first discharge flow path 115, and instead flows from the first downstream portion 111d through the third discharge flow path 117 toward the third discharge hole 125. As a result, the first filled area Ar1 can be easily filled with the second liquid L2. Note that in one example of the first filling step, the first discharge port 3o may be blocked with a predetermined member, for example.

[0312] In the second filling step, for example, the first closed state is set by the first opening / closing mechanism 4, and the second liquid L2 is supplied by the second liquid supply unit 3 toward the main channel 111 via the second inlet hole 122 and the second inlet flow path 114. As a result, in the state set to the first closed state, the second liquid L2 is supplied toward the main channel 111 via the second inlet hole 122 and the second inlet flow path 114. As a result, as shown in Fig. 41 , a region Ar2 (also referred to as a second filled region) extending from the second inlet hole 122 through the second inlet flow path 114, the main channel 111, and the first outlet flow path 115 to the first outlet hole 123 is filled with the second liquid L2.

[0313] Here, the width of the main channel 111 is greater than the width of each of the plurality of branch channels 112, and the resistance to the flow of the second liquid L2 in the main channel 111 from the first upstream section 111u to the first downstream section 111d is smaller than the resistance to the flow of the second liquid L2 from upstream to downstream (second downstream section) 112d in each of the plurality of branch channels 112. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 41 , the second liquid L2 flows toward the first inlet hole 121 via the first inlet channel 113, and the second liquid L2 flows from the first upstream section 111u to the first downstream section 111d in the main channel 111. Furthermore, when the first closed state is set, as shown in FIG. 41 , the second liquid L2 does not easily flow from the first downstream section 111d into the third outlet channel 117, and the second liquid L2 flows from the first downstream section 111d through the first outlet channel 115 toward the first outlet hole 123. As a result, the second filled area Ar2 can be easily filled with the second liquid L2.

[0314] In the third filling step, for example, the third switching unit 5 sets the suction-enabled state, and the second liquid L2 is supplied by the second liquid supply unit 3 toward the main channel 111 via the second inlet hole 122 and the second inlet channel 114, while the suction mechanism 8 suctions the second liquid from the main channel 111 via the second outlet hole 124 and the plurality of branch channels 112. As a result, as shown in FIG. 42 , the region Ar3 extending from the main channel 111 through each of the plurality of branch channels 112 to the second outlet hole 124 (also referred to as the third filled region) is filled with the second liquid L2. Note that in one example of the third filling step, for example, the first opening / closing mechanism 4 may be set to the first closed state or the first open state, or the first outlet port 3o may be blocked with a predetermined member.

[0315] Here, the first filling step and the second filling step are performed in this order, but this is not limiting. For example, the second filling step and the first filling step may be performed in this order.

[0316] <<Step S3 Process>> The process of step S3 is performed after the process of step S1. In the process of step S3, a second injection operation is performed by the supply unit 73. In other words, after the second supply operation described above, the second injection operation is performed by the supply unit 73. This second injection operation may be, for example, an operation in which the first moving mechanism 732 moves the nozzle portion 731 to position the nozzle tip portion 731t in the second area A2 of the first liquid supply unit 2, and the suction / discharge unit 733 ejects the second liquid L2 into the first space 2sp using the nozzle portion 731.

[0317] Figure 43 shows an example of the particle separator 7 during operation in step S3, in which the second liquid L2 is being discharged from the nozzle tip portion 731t of the nozzle part 731 into the first space 2sp. In Figure 43, the direction in which the second liquid L2 is being discharged from the nozzle tip portion 731t is indicated by a thin, two-dot chain arrow. As in Figure 39, the direction in which the second movable member 32 is being pressed by the second pressing member 742 is also indicated by a thin, two-dot chain arrow.

[0318] Here, for example, under the control of the control unit 76, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the second flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may suck in and hold the second liquid L2 from the first supply source 7351, and then when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may discharge the second liquid L2 through the nozzle unit 731. In the process of step S3, the second injection operation causes a state in which a first predetermined amount (also referred to as a first predetermined quantity) of the second liquid L2 is stored in the first space 2sp of the first liquid supply unit 2, as shown in FIG.

[0319] When the second injection operation is performed in step S3, for example, the second moving mechanism 743h may position the first pressing member 741 at the first retracted position Pe1 using the secondA moving mechanism 743h1, and may position the second pressing member 742 at the second pressing position Pp2 using the secondB moving mechanism 743h2.

[0320] <<Step S4 Process>> The process of step S4 is performed after the process of step S3. In the process of step S4, a first suction operation is performed by the supply unit 73. In other words, after the second injection operation described above, the first suction operation is performed by the supply unit 73. This first suction operation may be, for example, an operation in which the first moving mechanism 732 moves the nozzle unit 731 to position the nozzle tip portion 731t in the first region A1 in the first container 501, and the suction / discharge unit 733 suctions the first liquid L1 from the first container 501 using the nozzle unit 731 to hold it.

[0321] 44 shows, as an example of the operation of the particle separator 7 in the process of step S4, a state in which the first liquid L1 is being sucked by the nozzle part 731 with the nozzle tip part 731t of the nozzle part 731 positioned in the first region A1 in the first container 501. In Fig. 44, an example of a state in which the first liquid L1 is being sucked by the nozzle part 731 is schematically shown by an arrow drawn with a thin two-dot chain line.

[0322] Here, for example, under the control of the control unit 76, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may cause the nozzle unit 731 to suck in a liquid such as the first liquid L1. This allows the nozzle unit 731 to temporarily hold the sucked first liquid L1 in the nozzle intra-space 731s, for example.

[0323] When the first suction operation is performed in step S4, for example, the second moving mechanism 743h may position the first pressing member 741 at the first retracted position Pe1 using the secondA moving mechanism 743h1, and may position the second pressing member 742 at the second pressing position Pp2 using the secondB moving mechanism 743h2.

[0324] <<Step S5 Process>> Step S5 is performed after step S4. In step S5, the supply unit 73 performs the first injection operation described above. In other words, the first injection operation described above is performed after the first suction operation described above. This first injection operation may be, for example, an operation in which the first moving mechanism 732 of the supply unit 73 moves the nozzle portion 731 to position the nozzle tip portion 731t in the second region A2 of the first liquid supply unit 2, and the suction / discharge unit 733 ejects the first liquid L1 into the first space 2sp using the nozzle portion 731.

[0325] Figure 45 shows an example of the particle separator 7 during operation in step S5, in which the first liquid L1 is being discharged from the nozzle tip portion 731t of the nozzle portion 731 into the first space 2sp. In Figure 45, the direction in which the first liquid L1 is being discharged from the nozzle tip portion 731t is indicated by a thin, two-dot chain arrow. As in Figures 39 and 43, in Figure 45, the direction in which the second movable member 32 is pressed by the second pressing member 742 is indicated by a thin, two-dot chain arrow.

[0326] Here, for example, under the control of the control unit 76, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may cause the nozzle unit 731 to discharge the first liquid L1. In the process of step S5, a second predetermined amount (also referred to as a second predetermined amount) of the first liquid L1 may be injected into the first space 2sp of the first liquid supply unit 2 by the first injection operation. Here, as shown in FIG. 45 , in the first space 2sp, a liquid (also referred to as a mixed liquid) L3 is generated by mixing the second liquid L2 discharged from the nozzle unit 731 into the first space 2sp in the second injection operation of step S3 described above and the first liquid L1 discharged from the nozzle unit 731 into the first space 2sp in the first injection operation. Here, the mixed liquid L3 may be, for example, a liquid obtained by diluting the first liquid L1 with the second liquid L2. Hereinafter, this diluted liquid will be referred to as the first liquid L1 or the diluted first liquid L1 for convenience. Here, the first predetermined amount of the second liquid L2 may be, for example, about 0.5 to 1 times the second predetermined amount of the first liquid L1. In other words, the first liquid L1 may be diluted, for example, about 1.5 to 2 times.

[0327] When the first injection operation is performed in step S5, for example, the second moving mechanism 743h may position the first pressing member 741 at the first retracted position Pe1 using the secondA moving mechanism 743h1, and may position the second pressing member 742 at the second pressing position Pp2 using the secondB moving mechanism 743h2.

[0328] <<Process of Step S6>> Step S6 is performed after step S5. In step S6, a stirring operation is performed by the supply unit 73. In other words, the stirring operation is performed by the supply unit 73 after the first injection operation described above. This stirring operation may be, for example, an operation in which the mixed liquid L3 described above is stirred by a first operation and a second operation. The first operation may be, for example, an operation in which the suction / discharge unit 733 sucks the mixed liquid L3 from the first space 2sp using the nozzle unit 731. The second operation may be, for example, an operation in which the suction / discharge unit 733 discharges the mixed liquid L3 into the first space 2sp using the nozzle unit 731 after the first operation.

[0329] 46 shows, as an example of the operation of the particle separator 7 in the process of step S6, a state in which the nozzle part 731 is sucking in and discharging the mixed liquid L3 with the nozzle tip part 731t of the nozzle part 731 positioned in the second area A2 in the first liquid supply part 2. In FIG. 46, an example of the state in which the nozzle part 731 is sucking in and discharging the mixed liquid L3 is schematically shown by an arrow drawn with a thin two-dot chain line.

[0330] Here, for example, under the control of the control unit 76, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may cause the nozzle unit 731 to aspirate the mixed liquid L3 and discharge the mixed liquid L3. In other words, for example, under the control of the control unit 76, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may cause the nozzle unit 731 to aspirate the mixed liquid L3, thereby realizing the first operation. Furthermore, for example, under the control of the control unit 76, when the first switching unit 734 is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit 733 may cause the nozzle unit 731 to discharge the mixed liquid L3, thereby realizing the second operation.

[0331] In the stirring operation, the first operation and the second operation may be performed once each, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed repeatedly in sequence. By this stirring operation, for example, the first liquid L1 can be uniformly diluted with the second liquid L2.

[0332] When the stirring operation is performed in step S6, for example, the second moving mechanism 743h may position the first pressing member 741 at the first retracted position Pe1 using the secondA moving mechanism 743h1, and may position the second pressing member 742 at the second pressing position Pp2 using the secondB moving mechanism 743h2.

[0333] <<Process of Step S7>> The process of step S7 is performed during the process of step S2 and after the process of step S6. In the process of step S7, a second introduction operation is performed by the pressing unit 74. In other words, the second introduction operation is performed by the pressing unit 74 during the first introduction operation in the process of step S2 and after the stirring operation described above. This second introduction operation may be, for example, an operation in which the drive mechanism 743 causes the first pressing member 741 to press the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o, thereby causing the first liquid supply unit 2 to introduce the mixed liquid L3 (the diluted first liquid L1) from within the first space 2sp into the flow path unit 11 via the first introduction hole 121. More specifically, this second introduction operation may be, for example, an operation in which the first pressing mechanism 743v1 causes the first pressing member 741 to press the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o, thereby causing the first liquid supply unit 2 to introduce the mixed liquid L3 (the diluted first liquid L1) from inside the first space 2sp into the flow path unit 11 via the first introduction hole 121. When this second introduction operation is performed, the second introduction operation may be realized by performing the first pressing operation described above.

[0334] 47 shows an example of particle separator 7 during operation in step S7, in which first movable member 22 is being pressed toward first inlet 1o by first pressing member 741 and second movable member 32 is being pressed toward second inlet 2o by second pressing member 742. In Fig. 47, the direction in which first movable member 22 is being pressed by first pressing member 741 and the direction in which second movable member 32 is being pressed by second pressing member 742 are each indicated by arrows drawn with thin two-dot chain lines.

[0335] In this step S7, the first liquid L1 and the second liquid L2 are introduced into the flow path section 11 of the flow path device 100, and as described above, a process is performed in which multiple particles of a specific species are separated from the first liquid L1 in the flow path section 11.

[0336] When the second introduction operation is performed in step S7, for example, the second moving mechanism 743h may position the first pressing member 741 at the first pressing position Pp1 using the secondA moving mechanism 743h1, and may position the second pressing member 742 at the second pressing position Pp2 using the secondB moving mechanism 743h2.

[0337] Furthermore, when the second introduction operation is performed in step S7, for example, the third switching unit 5 may be set to the first open state, and the first opening / closing mechanism 4 may be set to the first open state.

[0338] <<Process of Step S8>> In step S8, the cleaning process described above is performed. This cleaning process may be a process of cleaning the nozzle portion 731 when the nozzle tip portion 731t is located in the fourth region A4 within the cleaning tank 751. Here, the first moving mechanism 732 moves the nozzle portion 731, thereby positioning the nozzle tip portion 731t in the fourth region A4 within the cleaning tank 751. The cleaning process may include an inner cleaning process for cleaning the inside of the nozzle portion 731 and an outer cleaning process for cleaning the outside of the nozzle portion 731. The inner cleaning process and the outer cleaning process may be performed alternately, for example. The inner cleaning process may include, for example, the first inner cleaning process and the second inner cleaning process described above. The outer cleaning process may include, for example, the first outer cleaning process and the second outer cleaning process described above.

[0339] FIG. 48 shows a schematic diagram of an inner cleaning process being performed as an example of the operation of the particle separator 7 in step S8. In FIG. 48, a thin, two-dot chain arrow shows an example of the discharge of cleaning liquid from the nozzle tip 731t into the tank interior space 751s. In FIG. 48, a thin, two-dot chain arrow shows an example of the discharge of a liquid such as cleaning liquid from the tank interior space 751s in the cleaning tank 751 by the liquid discharge unit 753. In FIG. 49, a schematic diagram of an outer cleaning process being performed as an example of the operation of the particle separator 7 in step S8. In FIG. 49, a thin, two-dot chain arrow shows an example of the supply of various cleaning liquids to the tank interior space 751s in the cleaning tank 751 by the liquid supply unit 752. 49, thin, dashed-dotted arrows are used to schematically show an example of how liquids such as various cleaning liquids are discharged from the intra-tank space 751s in the cleaning tank 751 by the liquid discharge unit 753. In FIG. 49, areas where cleaning liquid stored in the intra-tank space 751s in the cleaning tank 751 may be present are indicated by matte hatching.

[0340] As described above, for example, the cleaning process performed in the cleaning unit 75 may include a first cleaning process and a second cleaning process. The cleaning process may be a process in which the first cleaning process is performed followed by the second cleaning process.

[0341] The first cleaning process may be performed by repeating, for example, a 1A operation and a 1B operation. As shown in FIG. 48 , the 1A operation may be performed, for example, by the suction / discharge unit 733 discharging the first cleaning liquid from the nozzle unit 731 and the liquid discharge unit 753 discharging the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. According to this 1A operation, the inside of the nozzle unit 731 can be cleaned with the first cleaning liquid. As shown in FIG. 49 , the 1B operation may be performed, for example, by the liquid supply unit 752 supplying a third cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank 751 to immerse the nozzle unit 731 in the third cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 751 and the liquid discharge unit 753 discharging the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. According to this 1B operation, the outside of the nozzle unit 731 can be cleaned with the third cleaning liquid.

[0342] The second cleaning process may be performed by repeating, for example, operation 2A and operation 2B. As shown in FIG. 48 , operation 2A may be performed by the suction / discharge unit 733 discharging the second cleaning liquid from the nozzle unit 731 and the liquid discharge unit 753 discharging the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. According to operation 2A, the inside of the nozzle unit 731 can be cleaned with the second cleaning liquid. As shown in FIG. 49 , operation 2B may be performed by the liquid supply unit 752 supplying the fourth cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank 751 to immerse the nozzle unit 731 in the fourth cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 751 and the liquid discharge unit 753 discharging the liquid from the cleaning tank 751. According to operation 2B, the outside of the nozzle unit 731 can be cleaned with the fourth cleaning liquid.

[0343] In this way, by performing a cleaning process including the first cleaning process and the second cleaning process in the cleaning unit 75, cleaning of the inside and outside of the nozzle part 731 can be performed efficiently with a simple configuration, and the particle separation device 7 can be made smaller.

[0344] According to an example of the flow of operations of the particle separator 7 described above, with the first container 501 storing the first liquid L1 placed in the placement section 71 and the flow path device 100 placed in the installation section 72, the supply section 73 performs the second supply operation described above, whereby the nozzle section 731 supplies the second liquid L2 to the second space 3sp of the second liquid supply section 3 of the flow path device 100, and the supply section 73 performs the second injection operation, first suction operation, first injection operation, and stirring operation described above, whereby the nozzle section 731 supplies the first liquid L1 (the diluted first liquid L1) to the first space 2sp of the first liquid supply section 2 of the flow path device 100. As a result, one nozzle section 731 in the supply section 73 can supply the first liquid L1 (the diluted first liquid L1) to the first space 2sp of the first liquid supply section 2 of the flow path device 100, and supply the second liquid L2 to the second space 3sp of the second liquid supply section 3 of the flow path device 100. When the pressing unit 74 performs the first introducing operation, the second liquid L2 can be introduced from the second space 3sp into the flow path portion 11 via the second introduction hole 122. When the pressing unit 74 performs the second introducing operation, the first liquid L1 (the diluted first liquid L1) can be introduced from the first space 2sp into the flow path portion 11 via the first introduction hole 121. This reduces the number of parts required to introduce the first liquid L1 and the second liquid L2 into the flow path portion 11 of the flow path device 100. Furthermore, the pressing unit 74 can be reused repeatedly, and one nozzle portion 731 can be cleaned by a cleaning process in the cleaning unit 75 and reused. This means that when the first liquid L1 is changed, it is only necessary to replace the flow path device 100. This reduces the number of consumables that previously had to be replaced every time the first liquid L1 is changed, such as a switching unit such as a three-way valve, a tubular member such as a tube, a connector member, and a liquid supply unit and a suction / discharge unit each including a syringe. That is, the number of consumables required to introduce the liquids into the flow path section 11 of the flow path device 100 can be reduced. Therefore, for example, resource conservation can be achieved by reducing the amount of consumable materials used. Furthermore, for example, the reduction in consumables can reduce the cost and man-hours required for the preparation process for introducing the first liquid L1 and the second liquid L2 into the flow path device 100.

[0345] Furthermore, for example, it is possible to reduce the work of attaching and detaching a connector member to and from the flow path device 100 and removing a supply device such as a syringe from a tubular member, which can reduce adhesion of the first liquid L1 to the user and the surrounding work space due to splashing of the first liquid L1.

[0346] Furthermore, for example, the reduction in the work of replacing consumables can reduce other work such as the setting work of arranging the first container 501 and installing the flow path device 100. This can facilitate automation of the introduction of the first liquid L1 and the second liquid L2 into the flow path section 11, for example.

[0347] <<Various examples of particle separator operation>> In the example of the operation flow of the particle separator 7 described above, for example, step S7 and step S8 may be performed in parallel. In other words, the cleaning process in step S8 may be performed after the stirring operation in step S6. In other words, the cleaning process may be performed after the stirring operation in step S8.

[0348] 50 is a flow chart showing another first example of the flow of operation of the particle separator 7. This another first example of the operation of the particle separator 7 can be realized, for example, by the control unit 76 controlling the operation of each part of the particle separator 7.

[0349] Here, the cleaning process in step S8 may be performed while the first introduction operation in step S2 and the second introduction operation in step S7 are being performed. In other words, for example, with the flow path device 100 installed in the installation unit 72, the control unit 76 may control the operations of the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, and the cleaning unit 75 to perform the cleaning process while the drive mechanism 743 is pressing the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o with the first pressing member 741 and pressing the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o with the second pressing member 742 in the particle separation device 7. In this case, cleaning of the nozzle unit 731 may be performed while the first introduction portion 222 of the first liquid supply unit 2 is blocked by the first pressing member 741 and the second introduction portion 322 of the second liquid supply unit 3 is blocked by the second pressing member 742. This can reduce the problem of liquids such as various cleaning liquids for cleaning the nozzle portion 731 getting mixed into the flow path device 100.

[0350] Here, for example, the cleaning process may be performed while the pressing mechanism 743v is pressing the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o with the first pressing member 741 and pressing the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o with the second pressing member 742. More specifically, for example, the cleaning process may be performed while the first pressing mechanism 743v1 is pressing the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o with the first pressing member 741 and while the second pressing mechanism 743v2 is pressing the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o with the second pressing member 742.

[0351] In the above-described example of the operation flow of the particle separator 7 and the first other example, for example, the first introduction operation in step S2 and the second introduction operation in step S7 are performed in parallel. In this case, for example, the first introduction operation in step S2, the second injection operation in step S3, the first suction operation in step S4, the first injection operation in step S5, and the stirring operation in step S6 may be performed in parallel. Furthermore, for example, the first introduction operation in step S2 may be performed during a period when some of the second injection operation in step S3, the first suction operation in step S4, the first injection operation in step S5, and the stirring operation in step S6 are being performed. In other words, for example, the first introducing operation in step S2 may be performed during a period when at least some of the second injection operation in step S3, the first suction operation in step S4, the first injection operation in step S5, and the stirring operation in step S6 are being performed. Also, for example, the first introducing operation in step S2 may be performed during a period when none of the second injection operation in step S3, the first suction operation in step S4, the first injection operation in step S5, and the stirring operation in step S6 is being performed.

[0352] In the example of the operation flow of the particle separator 7 described above, for example, the first liquid L1 does not have to be diluted with the second liquid L2.

[0353] 51 is a flow chart showing another second example of the flow of operation of the particle separator 7. This another second example of the operation of the particle separator 7 can be realized, for example, by the control unit 76 controlling the operation of each part of the particle separator 7.

[0354] 51 are performed in the particle separator 7. In other words, the control unit 76 may be able to cause the particle separator 7 to perform the steps Sa1 to Sa6 by controlling the operations of the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, and the cleaning unit 75, for example, in a state in which the first container 501 is placed in the placement unit 71 and the flow path device 100 is placed in the installation unit 72. In other words, the control method for the particle separator 7 may include the steps Sa1 to Sa6.

[0355] In the example of Fig. 51, for example, after step Sa1 is performed, step Sa2 and steps Sa3 to Sa5 are performed in parallel, and finally step Sa6 is performed.

[0356] In the process of step Sa1, a second supply operation may be performed, similar to the process of step S1 described above, whereby the second liquid L2 is stored in the second space 3sp of the second liquid supply part 3.

[0357] In the process of step Sa2, a first introduction operation may be performed, similar to the process of step S2 described above.

[0358] In the process of step Sa3, a first suction operation may be performed, similar to the process of step S4 described above.

[0359] In the process of step Sa4, a first injection operation may be performed, similar to the process of step S5 described above, whereby the first liquid L1 is stored in the first space 2sp of the first liquid supply part 2.

[0360] In step Sa5, a second introduction operation may be performed, similar to step S7 described above. Here, the second introduction operation in step Sa5 may be performed during the first introduction operation in step Sa2 and after the first injection operation in step Sa4. In step Sa5, the first liquid L1 and the second liquid L2 are introduced into the flow path section 11 of the flow path device 100, and as described above, a process is performed in which a plurality of particles of a specific species are separated from the first liquid L1 in the flow path section 11.

[0361] In step Sa6, a cleaning process may be performed, similar to step S8 described above.

[0362] In the second example of the operational flow of the particle separator 7 described above, for example, step Sa5 and step Sa6 may be performed in parallel. In other words, the cleaning process in step Sa6 may be performed after the first injection operation in step Sa4. In other words, the cleaning process in step Sa6 may be performed after the first injection operation.

[0363] 52 is a flowchart showing another third example of the flow of operation of the particle separator 7. This another third example of the operation of the particle separator 7 can be realized, for example, by the control unit 76 controlling the operation of each part of the particle separator 7.

[0364] Here, the cleaning process in step Sa6 may be performed while the first introduction operation in step Sa2 and the second introduction operation in step Sa5 are being performed. In other words, for example, with the flow path device 100 installed in the installation unit 72, the control unit 76 may control the operations of the supply unit 73, the pressing unit 74, and the cleaning unit 75 to perform the cleaning process while the drive mechanism 743 is pressing the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o with the first pressing member 741 and pressing the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o with the second pressing member 742 in the particle separation device 7. In this case, cleaning of the nozzle unit 731 may be performed while the first introduction portion 222 of the first liquid supply unit 2 is blocked by the first pressing member 741 and the second introduction portion 322 of the second liquid supply unit 3 is blocked by the second pressing member 742. This can reduce the problem of liquids such as various cleaning liquids for cleaning the nozzle portion 731 getting mixed into the flow path device 100.

[0365] Here, for example, the cleaning process may be performed while the pressing mechanism 743v is pressing the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o with the first pressing member 741 and pressing the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o with the second pressing member 742. More specifically, for example, the cleaning process may be performed while the first pressing mechanism 743v1 is pressing the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o with the first pressing member 741 and while the second pressing mechanism 743v2 is pressing the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o with the second pressing member 742.

[0366] In the second and third alternative examples of the operational flow of the particle separator 7 described above, for example, the first introduction operation in step Sa2 and the second introduction operation in step Sa5 are performed in parallel. In this case, for example, the first introduction operation in step Sa2, the first suction operation in step Sa3, and the first injection operation in step Sa4 may be performed in parallel. Furthermore, for example, the first introduction operation in step Sa2 may be performed during a period in which some of the first suction operation in step Sa3 and the first injection operation in step Sa4 are being performed. In other words, for example, the first introduction operation in step Sa2 may be performed during a period in which at least some of the first suction operation in step Sa3 and the first injection operation in step Sa4 are being performed. Furthermore, for example, the first introduction operation in step Sa2 may be performed during a period in which neither the first suction operation in step Sa3 nor the first injection operation in step Sa4 is being performed.

[0367] <2. Other embodiments> The present disclosure is not limited to the first embodiment described above, and various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the gist of the present disclosure.

[0368] In the first embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 53, a suction / exhaust unit 733 may be connected to the third switching unit 5 via a first switching unit 734 instead of the suction mechanism 8. In this case, the suction / exhaust unit 733 can fulfill the role of the suction mechanism 8. This can simplify the configuration of the particle separator 7 and reduce its size.

[0369] Fig. 53 is a diagram schematically illustrating another example of the configuration connected to the second outlet 4o. In Fig. 53, the configuration of the flow channel device 100 other than the second outlet hole 124 and the second outlet 4o is omitted.

[0370] Here, for example, the multiple flow path states that can be selectively set by first switching unit 734 may include a seventh flow path state. The seventh flow path state may be a flow path state in which suction and exhaust unit 733 and third switching unit 5 are in communication. Here, for example, when first switching unit 734 is set to the seventh flow path state, third switching unit 5 may be able to set flow path 726 to a state in which suction and exhaust unit 733 are in communication (a suction-enabled state). Note that the configuration of first switching unit 734 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 53.

[0371] More specifically, for example, the first switching unit 734 may be capable of selectively setting the first switching unit 734 to any one of a plurality of flow path states including a first flow path state, a second flow path state, a third flow path state, a fourth flow path state, and a seventh flow path state. Here, there are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the first switching unit 734, as long as the first switching unit 734 has a configuration that allows it to be set to any one of a plurality of flow path states including the first flow path state, the second flow path state, the third flow path state, the fourth flow path state, and the seventh flow path state.

[0372] For example, based on the first switching unit 734 of FIG. 29 , as shown in FIG. 53 , the first switching unit 734 may further include a mechanism (also referred to as a ninth switching mechanism) 7344 for setting either the first flow path state or the seventh flow path state. The ninth switching mechanism 7344 may have, for example, a 9A port / outlet M9, a 9B port / outlet O9, and a 9C port / outlet C9. This ninth switching mechanism 7344 may be selectively set to, for example, either a state in which fluid can flow between the 9A port / outlet M9 and the 9B port / outlet O9 (also referred to as a 9A state) or a state in which fluid can flow between the 9A port / outlet M9 and the 9C port / outlet C9 (also referred to as a 9B state). A three-way valve, for example, may be used as the ninth switching mechanism 7344. The three-way valve may be, for example, a so-called three-way electromagnetic valve.

[0373] The 9A port M9 may be connected to the suction / exhaust unit 733 via one or more components having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the suction / exhaust unit 733 and the 9A port M9 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or switching the flow path. In the example of Fig. 53, the flow path connecting the suction / exhaust unit 733 and the 9A port M9 includes a first switching mechanism 7341, a second switching mechanism 7342, and a third switching mechanism 7343, which are examples of mechanisms such as various valves.

[0374] The 9B port O9 may be connected to the nozzle portion 731 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the 9B port O9 and the nozzle portion 731 may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or for switching the flow path.

[0375] The 9C port C9 may be connected to the third switching unit 5 via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. More specifically, the 9C port C9 may be connected to the 7A port M7 in a state in which fluid can flow therethrough. The 9C port C9 may be connected to the 7A port M7 via a tubular member, such as a tube, or may be directly connected to the 7A port M7.

[0376] In the example of FIG. 53 , for example, the first switching mechanism 7341 is set to the 1A state, the second switching mechanism 7342 is set to the 2A state, the third switching mechanism 7343 is set to the 3A state, and the 9th switching mechanism 7344 is set to the 9A state, thereby setting the first switching unit 734 to the first flow path state. For example, the first switching mechanism 7341 is set to the 1B state, thereby setting the first switching unit 734 to the second flow path state. For example, the first switching mechanism 7341 is set to the 1A state, and the second switching mechanism 7342 is set to the 2B state, thereby setting the first switching unit 734 to the third flow path state. The first switching mechanism 7341 is set to the 1A state, the second switching mechanism 7342 is set to the 2A state, and the third switching mechanism 7343 is set to the 3B state, thereby setting the first switching unit 734 to the fourth flow path state. The first switching mechanism 7341 is set to the 1A state, the second switching mechanism 7342 is set to the 2A state, the third switching mechanism 7343 is set to the 3A state, and the 9th switching mechanism 7344 is set to the 9B state, thereby setting the first switching unit 734 to the 7th flow path state.

[0377] 54, for example, the second moving mechanism 743h may not include the secondA moving mechanism 743h1 and the secondB moving mechanism 743h2. In this case, the second moving mechanism 743h may be able to selectively set a state in which the first pressing member 741 is located at the first pressing position Pp1 and the second pressing member 742 is located at the second pressing position Pp2 (also referred to as a pressing state), and a state in which the first pressing member 741 is located at the first retracted position Pe1 and the second pressing member 742 is located at the second retracted position Pe2 (also referred to as a retracted state), by simultaneously moving the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742, for example.

[0378] Fig. 54 is a diagram conceptually showing a first example of another schematic configuration of the pressing unit 74. Fig. 54 is a diagram based on Fig. 30, from which the second-A movement mechanism 743h1 and the second-B movement mechanism 743h2 have been removed. As in Fig. 30, Fig. 54 also shows the manner in which the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742 move up and down, as indicated by arrows drawn with thin two-dot chain lines.

[0379] As described above, the second moving mechanism 743h may be, for example, a mechanism capable of moving linearly (linear mechanism), a mechanism capable of moving in an arc (also called a rotational mechanism), or a mechanism capable of moving in various directions. For example, there are no particular restrictions on the second moving mechanism 743h as long as the second moving mechanism 743h has a configuration that can move the first pressing member 741 between the first pressing position Pp1 and the first retracted position Pe1 and can move the second pressing member 742 between the second pressing position Pp2 and the second retracted position Pe2.

[0380] FIG. 55 is a plan view schematically illustrating a first example of another configuration of the pressing unit 74. FIG. 55 is a diagram illustrating a modified configuration of the second movement mechanism 743h based on FIG. 31. Specifically, the second movement mechanism 743h includes a sixth block 743hs having a configuration in which a fourth block 743h1s and a fifth block 743h2s are connected and integrated, and includes a fourth guide portion 743h1g and a fifth guide portion 743h2g as two parallel sixth guide portions 743hg. The sixth block 743hs may be hooked onto the two sixth guide portions 743hg in a manner that allows it to move smoothly along the longitudinal direction of each of the six sixth guide portions 743hg. The second moving mechanism 743h may further include, for example, a combination of a ball screw and a motor, a cylinder, a linear motor, or the like, as a part (also referred to as a sixth drive part) that generates a driving force to move the sixth block 743hs along the longitudinal direction of each of the two sixth guide parts 743hg. The sixth drive part is not shown in Figure 55. Note that the configuration of the pressing part 74 is not limited to the example shown in Figure 55.

[0381] In the first embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 56, the pressing mechanism 743v may not include the first pressing mechanism 743v1 and the second pressing mechanism 743v2. In this case, the pressing unit 74 may be able to perform, for example, the first pressing operation and the second pressing operation simultaneously. Here, the first introduction operation may be, for example, an operation in which the pressing mechanism 743v causes the second pressing member 742 to press the second movable member 32 toward the second inlet 2o, thereby causing the second liquid supply unit 3 to introduce the second liquid L2 from the second space 3sp into the flow path unit 11 through the second introduction hole 122. The above-mentioned second introduction operation may be, for example, an operation in which the pressing mechanism 743v uses the first pressing member 741 to press the first movable member 22 toward the first inlet 1o, thereby causing the first liquid supply section 2 to introduce the mixed liquid L3 (the diluted first liquid L1) from within the first space 2sp into the flow path section 11 through the first introduction hole 121.

[0382] Fig. 56 is a diagram conceptually showing a second example of another schematic configuration of the pressing unit 74. Fig. 56 is a diagram based on Fig. 54, from which the first pressing mechanism 743v1 and the second pressing mechanism 743v2 have been removed. As with Figs. 30 and 54, Fig. 56 shows the manner in which the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742 move up and down, as shown by arrows drawn with thin two-dot chain lines.

[0383] As described above, the pressing mechanism 743v may be, for example, a combination of a guide member such as a linear guide, a ball screw, and a motor, or a cylinder or a linear motor. This allows the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742 to move linearly. For example, there are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the pressing mechanism 743v as long as the pressing mechanism 743v has a configuration that can move the first pressing member 741 in a manner that causes the first movable member 22 to be pressed toward the first inlet 1o by the first pressing member 741, and can move the second pressing member 742 in a manner that causes the second movable member 32 to be pressed toward the second inlet 2o by the second pressing member 742.

[0384] FIG. 57 is a plan view schematically illustrating a second example of the configuration of the pressing unit 74. FIG. 57 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the pressing mechanism 743v modified based on FIG. 55. Specifically, the pressing mechanism 743v includes, for example, a U-shaped connecting arm 743a having a configuration in which a first connecting arm 741a and a second connecting arm 742a are connected and integrated, and includes one pressing mechanism 743v instead of the first pressing mechanism 743v1 and the second pressing mechanism 743v2. The pressing mechanism 743v may be fixed on the sixth block 743hs. The pressing mechanism 743v may be connected to the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742 via the connecting arm 743a. A portion of the pressing mechanism 743v may be fixed to the end of the connecting arm 743a in the +Y direction. For example, if a cylinder is used in the pressing mechanism 743v, the connecting arm 743a may be fixed to the upper end of a rod extending above the cylinder. In this case, the pressing mechanism 743v can raise and lower the first pressing member 741 and the second pressing member 742 by raising and lowering the connecting arm 743a in the up-and-down direction, which is parallel to the Z axis. Note that the configuration of the pressing unit 74 is not limited to the example shown in FIG.

[0385] In the first embodiment, the liquid supply unit 752 selectively supplies the third cleaning liquid and the fourth cleaning liquid to the tank interior space 751s from outside the cleaning tank 751 via one first inlet port Po1. However, this is not limiting. For example, the liquid supply unit 752 may supply the third cleaning liquid and the fourth cleaning liquid to the tank interior space 751s from outside the cleaning tank 751 via different paths. This configuration also allows the liquid supply unit 752 to selectively supply one of the third cleaning liquid and the fourth cleaning liquid to the tank interior space 751s in the cleaning tank 751.

[0386] Figure 58 is a front view schematically showing another example of the general configuration of the cleaning unit 75. Figure 58 is a diagram in which the configuration of the liquid supply unit 752 is changed based on Figure 34.

[0387] In the example of Figure 58, the liquid supply unit 752 includes a first A inlet port Po1a, a first B inlet port Po1b, a first A liquid delivery unit 7521a, a first B liquid delivery unit 7521b, a fourth supply source 7523, and a fifth supply source 7524.

[0388] The 1A inlet port Po1a and the 1B inlet port Po1b are portions through which liquid flows from the outside of the cleaning tank 751 into the tank interior space 751s. The 1A inlet port Po1a and the 1B inlet port Po1b are located, for example, in the upper portion of the cleaning tank 751. Specifically, the 1A inlet port Po1a may be, for example, a tubular portion having a flow path leading to an opening (also referred to as the 1A inlet opening) on ​​the upper inner circumferential surface of the cleaning tank 751. The 1A inlet port Po1a may be, for example, a tubular member inserted into the upper opening 751o of the cleaning tank 751. The 1B inlet port Po1b may be, for example, a tubular portion having a flow path leading to an opening (also referred to as the 1B inlet opening) on ​​the upper inner circumferential surface of the cleaning tank 751. The 1B inlet port Po1b may be, for example, a tubular member inserted into the upper opening 751o of the cleaning tank 751.

[0389] A first-A liquid supply unit 7521a is provided in the flow path connecting the first-A inflow port Po1a and the fourth supply source 7523. A first-B liquid supply unit 7521b is provided in the flow path connecting the first-B inflow port Po1b and the fifth supply source 7524. Each of the first-A liquid supply unit 7521a and the first-B liquid supply unit 7521b may be a part that can supply liquid using a pump such as a diaphragm pump, for example.

[0390] The first A liquid supply unit 7521a and the first A inflow port Po1a may be connected via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member. The flow path connecting the first A liquid supply unit 7521a and the first A inflow port Po1a may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or for switching the flow path.

[0391] The first B liquid supply unit 7521b and the first B inflow port Po1b may be connected via one or more members having a flow path, such as a tubular member, etc. The flow path connecting the first B liquid supply unit 7521b and the first B inflow port Po1b may include mechanisms such as various valves for opening and closing the flow path or for switching the flow path.

[0392] Here, for example, the first-A liquid supply unit 7521a can supply the third cleaning liquid from the fourth supply source 7523 toward the first-A inflow port Po1a, thereby causing the third cleaning liquid to flow from the first-A inflow port Po1a into the tank space 751s. This operation may be realized by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of the first-A liquid supply unit 7521a by the control unit 76. Furthermore, for example, the first-B liquid supply unit 7521b can supply the fourth cleaning liquid from the fifth supply source 7524 toward the first-B inflow port Po1b, thereby causing the fourth cleaning liquid to flow from the first-B inflow port Po1b into the tank space 751s. This operation may be realized by control by the control unit 76. This control by the control unit 76 may be control of the operation of the first-B liquid supply unit 7521b by the control unit 76. In other words, the liquid supply unit 752 can selectively supply one of the third cleaning liquid and the fourth cleaning liquid to the tank interior space 751s in the cleaning tank 751 under the control of, for example, the control unit 76. This makes it possible to easily supply the third cleaning liquid or the fourth cleaning liquid to the cleaning tank 751.

[0393] The configuration in which the liquid supply unit 752 supplies the third cleaning liquid and the fourth cleaning liquid from the outside of the cleaning tank 751 to the tank interior space 751s via different paths is not limited to the example shown in FIG.

[0394] In the first embodiment, for example, the first retracted position Pe1 may be a position shifted from the first liquid supply unit 2 in the third direction in which the first liquid supply unit 2 and the second liquid supply unit 3 are aligned when the particle separation device 7 is viewed fr...

Claims

1. The apparatus includes a placement unit, a setting unit, a supply unit, a pressing unit, a cleaning unit including a cleaning tank, and a control unit, the placement portion includes a portion in which a first container storing a first liquid is placed, the first liquid includes a plurality of first particles and a plurality of second particles that are smaller than the plurality of first particles, the installation section includes a portion on which a flow path device is installed; the flow path device includes a main body, a first liquid supply unit, and a second liquid supply unit; The main body portion has a flow path portion and a plurality of holes, the flow path portion does not open on the outer surface of the main body portion, each of the plurality of holes communicates with the flow path portion and opens at the outer surface; the plurality of holes include a first introduction hole and a second introduction hole, the first introduction hole has a first introduction port that opens in a surface of the outer surface facing the first direction, the second introduction hole has a second introduction port that opens in a surface of the outer surface facing the first direction, the flow path portion includes a plurality of flow paths for separating the plurality of first particles and the plurality of second particles by introducing a second liquid through the second introduction hole and introducing the first liquid through the first introduction hole, the first fluid supply portion includes a first cylindrical portion and a first movable member, the first cylindrical portion protrudes in the first direction from a surface of the outer surface on a side facing the first direction, the first cylindrical portion has a first internal space connected to the first inlet, the first movable member is fitted inside the first cylindrical portion, the first movable member has a first introduction portion for introducing the first liquid from an external space into a first space between the first movable member and the main body portion in the first internal space, the second fluid supply portion includes a second cylindrical portion and a second movable member, the second cylindrical portion protrudes in the first direction from a surface of the outer surface on the side facing the first direction, the second cylindrical portion has a second internal space connected to the second inlet, the second movable member is fitted inside the second cylindrical portion, the second movable member has a second introduction portion for introducing the second liquid from an external space into a second space between the second movable member and the main body portion in the second internal space, the supply unit includes a nozzle unit, a first moving mechanism, and a suction and discharge unit, the first moving mechanism moves the nozzle portion to move a tip portion of the nozzle portion among a plurality of regions including a first region, a second region, a third region, and a fourth region; the first region is located within the first container when the first container is placed in the placement section, the second region is located from within the first introduction portion to within the first space when the flow path device is installed in the installation portion, the third region is located from within the second introduction portion to within the second space when the flow path device is installed in the installation portion, the fourth region is located within the cleaning tank; the suction / discharge unit causes the nozzle unit to suck in liquid and discharge the liquid from the nozzle unit; The supply unit performs a first supply operation and a second supply operation under the control of the control unit, the first supply operation includes an operation in which the first moving mechanism moves the nozzle portion to position the tip portion in the first region, and the suction and discharge unit sucks and holds the first liquid from the first container by the nozzle portion, and then the first moving mechanism moves the nozzle portion to position the tip portion in the second region, and the suction and discharge unit discharges the first liquid into the first space by the nozzle portion, the second supply operation includes an operation in which the first movement mechanism moves the nozzle portion to position the tip portion in the third region, and the nozzle portion ejects the second liquid into the second space, the pressing unit includes a first pressing member, a second pressing member, and a drive mechanism; The pressing portion performs a first pressing action and a second pressing action, the first pressing operation includes an operation in which the drive mechanism causes the first movable member of the flow path device installed on the installation section to be pressed toward the first inlet by the first pressing member; the second pressing operation includes an operation in which the drive mechanism causes the second movable member of the flow path device installed on the installation section to be pressed toward the second inlet by the second pressing member; The cleaning unit is a unit where a cleaning process for cleaning the nozzle unit is performed when the tip portion is positioned in the fourth region in the cleaning tank.

2. 10. The particle separator of claim 1, the installation unit has a structure in which, when the particle separation device is viewed from above in the second direction, the flow path device is installed in a form in which the first liquid supply unit and the second liquid supply unit are aligned in a third direction perpendicular to the second direction, When the particle separation device is viewed in a plan view in the second direction, the arrangement section and the cleaning tank are aligned in a direction intersecting the third direction.

3. 10. The particle separator of claim 1, the installation unit has a structure in which, when the particle separation device is viewed from above in the second direction, the flow path device is installed in a form in which the first liquid supply unit and the second liquid supply unit are aligned in a third direction perpendicular to the second direction, the drive mechanism includes a second movement mechanism; The second moving mechanism moves the first pressing member between a first pressing position overlapping the first movable part and a first retracted position offset from the first liquid supply part in a direction intersecting the third direction when the particle separation device is viewed in a plane in the second direction with the flow path device installed on the installation part, and moves the second pressing member between a second pressing position overlapping the second movable part and a second retracted position offset from the second liquid supply part in a direction intersecting the third direction, in a particle separation device.

4. 4. The particle separator of claim 3, the second movement mechanism includes a second A movement mechanism and a second B movement mechanism, the second A movement mechanism moves the first pressing member between the first pressing position and the first retracted position, The particle separating apparatus, wherein the second B movement mechanism moves the second pressing member between the second pressing position and the second retracted position.

5. 5. The particle separator of claim 4, the drive mechanism includes a first pressing mechanism and a second pressing mechanism; the first pressing mechanism moves the first pressing member in a direction from the first movable member toward the first inlet when the flow path device is installed on the installation section; the second pressing mechanism moves the second pressing member in a direction from the second movable member toward the second inlet when the flow path device is installed on the installation section, the control unit controls the operations of the supply unit and the pressing unit in a state in which the flow path device is installed on the installation unit, thereby causing the second pressing mechanism to perform a first introducing operation on the second liquid supply unit and causing the supply unit to perform a first injection operation of the first liquid into the first liquid supply unit; the first introduction operation includes an operation in which the second pressing mechanism causes the second pressing member to press the second movable member toward the second inlet, thereby causing the second liquid supply unit to introduce the second liquid from within the second space into the flow path unit through the second introduction hole, The first injection operation includes an operation in which the first moving mechanism moves the nozzle portion to position the tip portion in the second region, and the suction and discharge portion ejects the first liquid into the first space using the nozzle portion.

6. A particle separator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the control unit controls the operations of the supply unit, the pressing unit, and the cleaning unit in a state in which the first container is placed in the placement unit and the flow path device is installed in the installation unit, the second supply operation; and a first introducing operation after the second supplying operation; a second injection operation by the supply unit after the second supply operation; a first suction operation by the supply unit after the second injection operation; a first injection operation by the supply unit after the first suction operation; a stirring operation by the supply unit after the first injection operation; a second introducing operation by the pressing unit during the first introducing operation and after the stirring operation; the cleaning process after the stirring operation is performed in the particle separator; the first introduction operation includes an operation in which the drive mechanism causes the second pressing member to press the second movable member toward the second introduction port, thereby causing the second liquid supply unit to introduce the second liquid from within the second space into the flow path unit through the second introduction hole, the second injection operation includes an operation in which the first movement mechanism moves the nozzle portion to position the tip portion in the second region, and the suction and discharge unit discharges the second liquid into the first space through the nozzle portion, the first suction operation includes an operation in which the first moving mechanism moves the nozzle portion to position the tip portion in the first region, and the suction / discharge unit sucks the first liquid from the first container by the nozzle portion and holds the first liquid, the first injection operation includes an operation in which the first moving mechanism moves the nozzle portion to position the tip portion in the second region, and the suction and discharge unit discharges the first liquid into the first space through the nozzle portion, the stirring operation includes an operation of stirring a mixed liquid obtained by mixing the second liquid discharged from the nozzle portion into the first space in the second pouring operation and the first liquid discharged from the nozzle portion into the first space in the first pouring operation, by: a first operation in which the suction and discharge unit sucks the mixed liquid in the first space through the nozzle portion; and a second operation in which the suction and discharge unit discharges the mixed liquid into the first space through the nozzle portion after the first operation, The second introduction operation includes an operation in which the driving mechanism pushes the first movable member toward the first inlet using the first pressing member, thereby causing the first liquid supply unit to introduce the mixed liquid from the first space into the flow path unit through the first introduction hole.

7. A particle separator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The control unit controls the operation of the supply unit, the pressing unit, and the cleaning unit when the flow path device is installed in the installation unit, thereby performing the cleaning process in the particle separation device when the driving mechanism is pressing the first movable member toward the first inlet with the first pressing member and pressing the second movable member toward the second inlet with the second pressing member.

8. A particle separator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the supply unit includes a first switching unit and a liquid supply source; the suction / discharge unit, the liquid supply source, and the nozzle unit are connected via the first switching unit, the liquid supply includes a first supply holding the second liquid; the first switching unit selectively sets one of a plurality of flow path states including a first flow path state in which the suction and discharge unit and the nozzle unit communicate with each other and a second flow path state in which the suction and discharge unit and the first supply source communicate with each other; When the first switching unit is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit causes the nozzle unit to suck and hold the liquid, and then the suction and discharge unit causes the nozzle unit to discharge the liquid, A particle separation device in which, when the first switching unit is set to the second flow path state, the suction and discharge unit sucks and holds the second liquid from the first supply source, and then, when the first switching unit is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit ejects the second liquid through the nozzle unit.

9. 9. The particle separator of claim 8, the liquid supply source includes a second supply source holding a first cleaning liquid and a third supply source holding a second cleaning liquid; the plurality of flow path states include a third flow path state in which the suction and discharge unit and the second supply source communicate with each other, and a fourth flow path state in which the suction and discharge unit and the third supply source communicate with each other, when the first switching unit is set to the third flow path state, the suction and discharge unit suctions and holds the first cleaning liquid from the second supply source, and then when the first switching unit is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit discharges the first cleaning liquid through the nozzle unit; a particle separation device in which, when the first switching unit is set to the fourth flow path state, the suction and discharge unit sucks in and holds the second cleaning liquid from the third supply source, and then, when the first switching unit is set to the first flow path state, the suction and discharge unit ejects the second cleaning liquid through the nozzle unit.

10. 10. The particle separator of claim 9, the cleaning unit includes a liquid supply unit and a liquid discharge unit; the liquid supply unit selectively supplies one of a third cleaning liquid and a fourth cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank under control of the control unit; the liquid discharge unit discharges liquid from the cleaning tank; the cleaning process includes a first cleaning process and a second cleaning process; the first cleaning process is performed by repeating an operation in which the suction and discharge unit causes the nozzle unit to discharge the first cleaning liquid and the liquid discharge unit discharges the liquid from the cleaning tank; and an operation in which the liquid supply unit supplies the third cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank to immerse the nozzle unit in the third cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank and the liquid discharge unit discharges the liquid from the cleaning tank, The second cleaning process is performed by repeating the following operations: the suction and discharge unit ejects the second cleaning liquid through the nozzle unit and the liquid discharge unit discharges the liquid from the cleaning tank; and the liquid supply unit supplies the fourth cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank, thereby immersing the nozzle unit in the fourth cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank, and the liquid discharge unit discharges the liquid from the cleaning tank.

11. A particle separator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the first liquid includes an analyte; The particle separator, wherein the second liquid comprises a buffer solution.

12. A particle separator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the plurality of flow paths include a first flow path, a plurality of second flow paths, a third flow path, and a fourth flow path; the plurality of holes include a first discharge hole and a second discharge hole; the first flow path has a first upstream portion and a first downstream portion opposite to the first upstream portion, Each of the plurality of second flow paths is connected to the first flow path and is narrower than the first flow path, Each of the plurality of second flow paths has a second downstream portion opposite to the first flow path, the third flow path is connected to the first upstream portion, the fourth flow path is connected to the first upstream portion, the first introduction hole is connected to the first upstream portion via the third flow path, the second introduction hole is connected to the first upstream portion via the fourth flow path, the first discharge hole communicates with the first downstream portion, the second discharge hole communicates with the second downstream portion of each of the plurality of second flow paths, the first flow path extends along a fourth direction intersecting the first direction, each of the plurality of second flow paths opens at a side surface of the first flow path on a side in a fifth direction perpendicular to the fourth direction between the first upstream portion and the first downstream portion, the third flow path includes a first connection portion connected to the first upstream portion, the first connection portion extends along the fourth direction, the fourth flow path includes a second connection portion connected to the first upstream portion, A particle separation device, wherein the second connection portion opens on a side surface of the first flow path in a sixth direction opposite to the fifth direction in the first upstream portion of the first flow path.

Images