Fluid Transfer Pump Device

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention relates to a fluid transfer pump device, and provides a fluid transfer pump device in which a plurality of components constituting the fluid transfer pump device form a stacked structure.An embodiment of the present invention relates to an electroosmotic pump, and provides an electroosmotic pump and a power supply device for the electroosmotic pump, each having a structure that allows easy connection to each other.An embodiment of the present invention relates to a fluid transfer device, and provides a fluid transfer device including an intake path and an exhaust path that can increase the fluid transfer efficiency and prevent blockage of the flow path.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid transfer pumping device, and more particularly to a fluid transfer pumping device for drug infusion. [Background technology]

[0002] Drugs can be injected into the body in various forms, such as oral, subcutaneous, and intravenous, depending on the type, purpose, and method of treatment. Drug injectors using drug pumps can automatically inject drugs into the body at a desired rate and volume at a required time. Therefore, drug injectors using drug pumps can be used in various forms, as well as in hospitals and in patients' daily living environments.

[0003] Insulin pumps, commonly known as insulin injectors, are medical devices for diabetics who do not secrete insulin or who secrete only small amounts of insulin. They act like the pancreas, supplying insulin to the body from the outside at precise times to regulate blood sugar levels.

[0004] Such insulin pumps are a technology used by patients with insulin-dependent diabetes, but insulin pump technology has problems such as the need for miniaturization and precision in administration, and much research is currently being conducted to solve these problems.

[0005] Metering pumps that can be used in drug injection devices such as insulin pumps are pumps that transport a constant amount of liquid per unit time. Depending on their operating principle, they are divided into diaphragm pumps (membrane pumps), gear pumps, peristaltic pumps, syringe pumps, etc., and are used in a wide range of industrial fields.

[0006] The drug injection can be continuous or intermittent depending on the injection volume and injection rate. Accurate and stable drug injection is the most important part for effective treatment and user safety.

[0007] In particular, in the case of insulin pumps, the main reason that medicinal liquid is not injected accurately is that solid matter forms at the tip of the cannula, needle, catheter, etc. through which the medicinal liquid is injected and at the point where it comes into contact with body fluids, preventing the injection of the medicinal liquid.

[0008] Therefore, a device that can detect whether the drug solution is being injected accurately at the desired speed or in the desired amount is essential for safe and stable injection, and drug injection technology that fundamentally prevents such problems from occurring is important. DISCLOSURE OF THEINVENTION [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] A fluid transfer pump device according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided for increasing the efficiency of fluid transfer and detecting blockage of a fluid passage.

[0010] Furthermore, the electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment of the present invention is intended to facilitate coupling to a power supply device and to increase the contact area with the power supply device.

[0011] Furthermore, the fluid transfer device according to the embodiment of the present invention is intended to increase the efficiency of fluid transfer and reduce dead space for fluid.

[0012] However, the technical problem that the present embodiment aims to achieve is not limited to the above-mentioned technical problem, and other technical problems may exist. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] As a technical means for achieving the technical objective, a fluid transfer pump device according to a first aspect of the present invention may include a pressure generating unit that electrochemically generates positive and negative pressure alternately, a first isolation unit coupled to one side of the pressure generating unit, a second isolation unit coupled to the other side of the pressure generating unit, and a transfer chamber unit coupled to the second isolation unit on the opposite side of the pressure generating unit.

[0014] In addition, in the fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment, the pressure generating unit, the first isolation unit, the second isolation unit and the transfer chamber unit may be stacked in one direction and integrally coupled to each other.

[0015] Also, according to the embodiment, the pressure generating part, the first isolating part, the second isolating part and the transfer chamber part may be formed and aligned to have a rectangular cross-sectional contour shape in a stacking direction.

[0016] Moreover, the pressure generating unit according to the embodiment can be configured with an electroosmotic pump.

[0017] Also, the electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment may include a membrane that allows fluid movement, and a plate-shaped first electrode and a plate-shaped second electrode that are stacked and coupled to both sides of the membrane, respectively.

[0018] In addition, the first separator according to the embodiment may include a first separator frame laminated and bonded to the pressure generating portion, and a flexible first separator bonded to the inside of the first separator frame to make the pressure generating portion airtight.

[0019] In addition, the first separator frame and the first separator according to the embodiment may be bonded to each other using at least one of a thermal fusion method, a UV (Ultraviolet Ray) bonding method, and an ultrasonic fusion method.

[0020] Also, the fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment may further include a monitoring unit stacked and coupled to the first isolation unit on the opposite side of the pressure generating unit.

[0021] Also, the monitoring unit according to the embodiment may include a monitoring chamber frame stacked and coupled to the first isolation part, a monitoring chamber formed inside the monitoring chamber frame, and a pressure sensor for measuring pressure in the monitoring chamber.

[0022] In addition, the monitoring chamber frame according to the embodiment may be formed with a pressure sensor coupling port communicating with the monitoring chamber, and the pressure sensor may be inserted and fixed into the pressure sensor coupling port.

[0023] In addition, the second separator according to the embodiment may include a second separator frame laminated and coupled to the pressure generating portion, and a flexible second separator coupled to the inside of the second separator frame to make the pressure generating portion airtight.

[0024] An electroosmotic pump according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a membrane that allows fluid movement, and a first electrode and a second electrode respectively provided on either side of the membrane, the membrane, the first electrode and the second electrode being stacked and combined in a plate-like shape, and each of the first electrode and the second electrode includes an electrode portion corresponding to the membrane region, and a terminal portion integrally extending from and protruding from one aspect of the electrode portion.

[0025] Moreover, the terminal portion according to the embodiment is formed in a plate shape.

[0026] In addition, the electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment further includes a power supply unit connected to the terminal portion, the power supply unit including first and second connectors respectively coupled to the terminal portion, and a support body for fixedly supporting the first and second connectors.

[0027] In addition, the first and second connectors according to the embodiment are fixed on the support at a preset interval that corresponds to the interval between the first and second electrodes, and the first and second connectors are slidingly coupled to the first and second electrodes, respectively.

[0028] Also, each of the first and second connectors according to the embodiment includes a first leg portion and a second leg portion formed to elastically support both side surfaces of the terminal portion.

[0029] Also, the first leg portion and the second leg portion according to the embodiment elastically support the terminal portion, and include a bent portion formed to widen the gap on the side to which the terminal portion is coupled.

[0030] The electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment further includes a third leg bent toward the terminal from at least one of the first leg and the second leg to expand a contact surface with the terminal.

[0031] A fluid transfer device according to a third aspect of the present invention includes a flexible isolation material to which positive pressure and negative pressure are alternately transmitted, and a transfer chamber portion combined with the flexible isolation material, the transfer chamber portion including a transfer chamber frame that defines the contour shape of the transfer chamber portion, and a transfer chamber formed concavely in the transfer chamber frame facing the flexible isolation material, through which the fluid to be transferred is input and output.

[0032] In addition, the transfer chamber according to the embodiment includes an upper portion that opens toward the separator and is airtight when the separator is bonded to the upper portion, a lower portion formed on the opposite side to the separator, and a peripheral portion formed between the upper portion and the lower portion.

[0033] In addition, according to an embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the top portion is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the bottom portion, and the periphery portion is formed to have an inclined surface.

[0034] In addition, in the fluid transfer device according to the embodiment, when a positive pressure acts on the transfer chamber via the separator, the separator deforms toward the bottom side in accordance with the shape of the inclined surface, and ejects the fluid to be transferred.

[0035] In addition, in the fluid transfer device according to the embodiment, when negative pressure acts on the transfer chamber through the separator, the separator deforms toward the opposite side of the bottom to suck in the fluid to be transferred.

[0036] In addition, in the fluid transfer device according to the embodiment, an inlet through which the fluid to be transferred is input and an outlet through which the fluid to be transferred is output from the transfer chamber are formed on the peripheral surface.

[0037] In addition, the suction port and the discharge port according to the embodiment are formed to face each other on the peripheral surface.

[0038] The fluid transfer device according to the embodiment further includes an intake passage extending from the intake port, and an exhaust passage extending from the exhaust port.

[0039] In addition, the suction passage and the discharge passage according to the embodiment are formed to be inclined outward from the suction port and the discharge port, respectively.

[0040] In addition, the suction passage and the discharge passage according to the embodiment are formed to have a cross-sectional area that increases as they are farther away from the transfer chamber. Effect of the Invention

[0041] The fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment of the present invention can increase the efficiency of fluid transfer and can detect blockage of the flow path.

[0042] Furthermore, the electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment of the present invention can be easily coupled to a power supply device, and the contact area with the power supply device can be increased.

[0043] Furthermore, the fluid transfer device according to the embodiment of the present invention can increase the efficiency of fluid transfer and reduce dead space of the fluid. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0044] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a fluid transfer pump device according to an embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a front view of the fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram illustrating the operation of the fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an electroosmotic pump according to an embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of an electroosmotic pump and separator according to an embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 6 is a structural diagram of a first isolating part according to an embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a first isolation portion according to an embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 8 is a structural diagram of a second isolating part according to an embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a second isolation portion according to an embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a second isolation portion according to an embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a power supply unit and a connector coupled together according to an embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 12 is a side view of the power supply unit according to the embodiment.

[0056] FIG. 13 is a detailed view of a connector according to an embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 14 is a side view of the power supply unit according to the embodiment.

[0058] FIG. 15 is a detailed view of a connector according to an embodiment.

[0059] FIG. 16 is a structural diagram of a transfer chamber according to an embodiment.

[0060] FIG. 17 is an exploded view of a transfer chamber portion and a second isolation portion according to an embodiment.

[0061] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a modified example of the second separator according to the embodiment.

[0062] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a transfer chamber portion according to an embodiment.

[0063] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a modified example of the transfer chamber part according to the embodiment.

[0064] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a modified example of the transfer chamber part according to the embodiment.

[0065] FIG. 22 is an exploded view of a valve section and a transfer path section according to an embodiment.

[0066] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a transfer chamber portion and a transfer path portion according to an embodiment.

[0067] FIG. 24 is an exploded view of a monitoring unit according to an embodiment.

[0068] 25 is a diagram showing a modified example of the first separator according to the embodiment.

[0069] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail so that a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs can easily carry out the present invention. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts that are not related to the description are omitted, and similar parts are designated by similar reference numerals throughout the specification.

[0070] Throughout the specification, a part being "connected" to another part includes not only a part being "directly connected" to another part, but also a part being "electrically connected" to another part via another element therebetween. Furthermore, when a part is said to "include" a certain component, this does not mean that the other component is excluded, but that the part can further include the other component, unless otherwise specified.

[0071] In addition, the attached drawings are intended to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and are not intended to limit the technical ideas disclosed in this specification, but should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, or alternatives included in the idea and technical scope of the present invention.

[0072] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

[0073] When an element is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another element, it should be understood that it may be directly coupled or connected to the other element, but that there may be other elements between them. On the other hand, when an element is referred to as being "directly coupled" or "directly connected" to another element, it should be understood that there are no other elements between them.

[0074] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0075] In this application, terms such as "comprise" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof set forth in the specification, but are to be understood as not precluding the possible presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0076] Hereinafter, the configuration of a fluid transfer pump device (1) according to an embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0077] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a fluid transfer pump device (1) according to an embodiment.

[0078] 1, the fluid transfer pump device 1 includes a pressure generating unit 100 and a power supply unit 200. The fluid transfer pump device 1 may also include a transfer chamber unit 300 through which a first fluid, which is a fluid to be transferred, moves, and a transfer path unit 400. The fluid transfer pump device 1 may further include a monitoring unit 500 that is not connected to the path through which the first fluid moves, but is provided separately, and detects normal operation of the fluid transfer pump device 1 and blockage of the path.

[0079] The fluid transfer pump device 1 can refer to a device for inhaling and discharging a drug and a pump device for transporting a first fluid. However, the use of the fluid transfer pump device 1 described in this specification is not limited to transporting drugs, and it can be used to inhale and discharge various fluid-form substances.

[0080] The pressure generating unit (100) is a general term for a device that generates pressure for the transfer of a first fluid, which is a fluid to be transferred. The pressure generating unit (100) can generate positive pressure or negative pressure. Positive pressure and negative pressure refer to the direction of pressure generation for changing the direction of movement of a fluid.

[0081] Therefore, the negative pressure means the direction of pressure for sucking in the first fluid, and the positive pressure means the direction of pressure for expelling the first fluid. The positive and negative pressures generated by the pressure generating unit (100) enable the fluid transfer pump device (1) to suck in the drug stored in the drug storage unit and inject it into the body.

[0082] When an electroosmotic pump is used as the pressure generating unit 100, the pressure generating unit 100 includes a second fluid present inside the pressure generating unit 100, a membrane 110 through which the second fluid can permeate, and a first electrode and a second electrode 120. The first electrode and the second electrode 120 may be disposed on the side of the membrane 110, respectively.

[0083] Specifically, the first electrode and the second electrode 120 may be disposed on both opposing sides of the membrane 110 or on a side perpendicular to the direction of pressure. The first electrode and the second electrode 120 may be supplied with power for generating pressure from a power supply 200.

[0084] The pressure generating part (100) further includes isolation parts (140, 150) laminated and coupled to the electrode (120). The isolation parts (140, 150) include a first isolation part (140) coupled to one side of the pressure generating part (100) and a second isolation part (150) coupled to the other side of the pressure generating part (100).

[0085] The separator (140, 150) includes a separator frame (141, 151) laminated and joined to the pressure generating part (100), and a flexible separator (142, 152) joined to the inside of the separator frame (141, 151) to make the pressure generating part (100) airtight.

[0086] Therefore, the isolating unit 150 prevents the second fluid in the pressure generating unit 100 from mixing with the first fluid, which is the fluid to be transferred. Furthermore, the isolating members 142, 152 deform in response to the pressure generated in the pressure generating unit 100, thereby transmitting the pressure to the transfer chamber unit 300, the transfer path unit 400, and the monitoring unit 500.

[0087] The specific configurations of the pressure generating unit (100) and the power supply unit (200) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 to 15 described later.

[0088] The fluid transfer pump device (1) includes a transfer chamber section (300) coupled to a second isolation section (150) on the opposite side of the pressure generating section (100). Thus, the pressure generating section (100), the first isolation section (140), the second isolation section (150) and the transfer chamber section (300) are coupled in a stacked configuration.

[0089] The transfer chamber unit (300) transfers the pressure generated by the pressure generating unit (100) to the first fluid. To this end, the transfer chamber unit (300) includes a transfer chamber frame (310) stacked and coupled to the second isolation unit (150), a transfer chamber (320) formed inside the transfer chamber frame (310) to receive the fluid to be transferred, and an intake unit and an exhaust unit through which the fluid is input to and exhausted from the transfer chamber (320).

[0090] The fluid transfer pump device (1) further includes a transfer path unit (400) coupled to the transfer chamber unit (300) from the side opposite the second isolation unit (150). The transfer path unit (400) includes a transfer path frame (410) coupled to the transfer chamber unit (300) by stacking, an inflow path (430) through which the first fluid is input to the transfer chamber unit (300), and a discharge path (440) through which the first fluid is output from the transfer chamber unit (300).

[0091] At this time, the inlet path (430) and the outlet path (440) may be formed in the stacking direction of the fluid transfer pump device (1) or may be formed perpendicular to the stacking direction.

[0092] The fluid transfer pump device (1) may further include a valve unit (360, 370) that allows or blocks the flow of the first fluid. The valve unit (360, 370) may include an intake valve (360) that allows the input of the first fluid to the transfer chamber unit (300) and blocks the output, and an exhaust valve (370) that allows the output of the first fluid to the transfer chamber unit (300) and blocks the input. Thus, the transfer path unit (400) may be formed with a pair of valve coupling ports (420) to which the intake valve (360) and the exhaust valve (370) are attached and fixed.

[0093] The fluid transfer pump device (1) may further include a monitoring unit (500) stacked and coupled to the first isolation unit on the opposite side of the pressure generating unit (100). The monitoring unit (500) may be coupled to the transfer chamber unit (300) and the transfer path unit (400) on the opposite side of the pressure generating unit (100). Therefore, the monitoring unit (500) can detect whether the fluid transfer pump device (1) is operating normally without contacting or being connected to the path through which the first fluid moves.

[0094] A specific configuration of the monitoring unit (500) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 24 and 25 described later.

[0095] The fluid transfer pump device (1) is configured by stacking two or more components of the pressure generating unit (100), first isolation unit (140), second isolation unit (150), transfer chamber unit (300), transfer path unit (400) and monitoring unit (500) in one direction and combining them as one unit. By stacking the multiple components that make up the fluid transfer pump device (1) in one direction, the components can be easily combined and the manufacturing method of the fluid transfer pump device (1) can be simplified.

[0096] Furthermore, the pressure generating section (100), first isolation section (140), second isolation section (150), transfer chamber section (300), transfer path section (400) and monitoring section (500) constituting the fluid transfer pump device (1) can be formed and aligned to have a rectangular cross-sectional contour shape with respect to the stacking direction.

[0097] The pressure generating unit 100, the first isolating unit 140, the second isolating unit 150, the transfer chamber unit 300, the transfer path unit 400, and the monitoring unit 500 are designed in a cubic shape, so that they can be manufactured in a thin shape. In addition, the configuration of the fluid transfer pump device 1 is manufactured to have a rectangular cross-sectional outline shape in the stacking direction, so that it is easy to align the components when they are joined together.

[0098] The fluid transfer pump device 1 may be designed so that the specifications of the components included in the fluid transfer pump device 1 are uniform, and the contour shape of the fluid transfer pump device 1 may be formed to have a cubic shape. That is, the specifications of the pressure generating unit 100, the first isolation unit 140, the second isolation unit 150, the transfer chamber unit 300, the transfer path unit 400, and the monitoring unit 500 constituting the fluid transfer pump device 1 may be designed so that the contour shape of the fluid transfer pump device 1 has a cubic shape.

[0099] This allows the contour shapes of the components included in the fluid transfer pump device 1 to match, and allows the fluid transfer pump device 1 to be designed in a form that minimizes protrusions. By minimizing the protrusions of the fluid transfer pump device 1, the volume of the fluid transfer pump device 1 can be minimized.

[0100] Specifically, the fluid transfer pump device (1) can be designed in a cubic shape with a height of 5 to 10 mm, a width of 10 to 15 mm, and a length of 15 to 30 mm so that it can be applied to a miniaturized drug injector. Since the fluid transfer pump device (1) is configured in the form of a single module having a certain specification, the fluid transfer pump device (1) can be used in various types of drug injection devices.

[0101] By minimizing the protrusions of the fluid transfer pump device (1) and designing its contour shape in the form of a cube, the fluid transfer pump device (1) can be positioned to facilitate coupling and compatibility with other components within the housing of a drug injection device such as an insulin patch.

[0102] Furthermore, by designing the fluid transfer pump device 1 to have a unidirectional laminate structure, it is easy to change the laminate structure of the fluid transfer pump device 1 or replace a portion of the configuration depending on the purpose of use, the type of fluid used, the form and specifications of the drug injection device, etc. The specifications of the fluid transfer pump device 1 are not limited to these, and the specifications can be changed depending on the laminate structure, changes in the laminate structure, and the type and specifications of the drug injection device to be applied.

[0103] Hereinafter, the operation of the fluid transfer pump device (1) according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0104] FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram illustrating the operation of the fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment.

[0105] Fig. 3(a) shows a case where no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100). As shown in Fig. 3(a), when no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100), the flexible separators (142, 152) are in a state of sagging along the direction of gravity. In other words, when no pressure is generated, the first separator (142) and the second separator (152) have a parabolic shape bent downward.

[0106] 3(b) and (c) show the case where negative pressure is generated by the pressure generating unit (100). As shown in FIG. 3(b), when pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100) in the direction D1, deformation of the flexible separators (142, 152) occurs. Therefore, the first separator (142) and the second separator (152) deform in the direction D1. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3(c), the first separator (142) and the second separator (152) deform into a first shape. The first shape refers to the shape into which the separator is deformed in response to the negative pressure.

[0107] The first shape is a shape in which the first separator 142 or the second separator 152 is raised. Therefore, the first shape may mean that the separators 142, 152 are bent upward in a parabolic shape.

[0108] 3(b), when the second separator (152) is deformed into the first shape, the inlet valve (360) is opened, and when the second separator (152) is deformed into the first shape, the outlet valve (370) is closed, so that the first fluid to be transferred is input into the transfer chamber along the inlet passage (330).

[0109] The monitoring unit (500) can measure the pressure or change in shape caused by the first separator (142) being deformed into the first shape, and detect whether the fluid transfer pump device (1) is operating normally and whether the flow path is blocked.

[0110] 3(d) and (e) show the case where a positive pressure is generated by the pressure generating unit (100). As shown in FIG. 3(d) and (e), when pressure is generated in the direction D2 by the pressure generating unit (100), deformation of the flexible separators (142, 152) occurs. This causes the first separator (142) and the second separator (152) to deform in the direction D2. As a result, as shown in FIG. 3(e), the first separator (142) and the second separator (152) deform into a second shape. The second shape refers to the shape of the separators (142, 152) that are deformed in response to the positive pressure.

[0111] The second shape is a shape in which the first separator (142) or the second separator (152) descends. The second shape may mean a shape that is symmetrical to the first shape. Therefore, the second shape may mean that the separators (142, 152) are deformed in a parabolic shape bending downward.

[0112] When the first separator (142) or the second separator (152) is deformed into the second shape in response to positive pressure, the deformation rate may be greater than the basic shape of the flexible separator (142, 152) shown in Fig. 3(a). That is, when positive pressure is generated, the separator (142, 152) may bend to a greater extent than the basic shape.

[0113] As shown in Figure 3(e), when the second separator (152) is deformed to the second shape, the intake valve (360) is closed, and when the second separator (152) is deformed to the second shape, the exhaust valve (370) is opened, such that the first fluid present in the transfer chamber (320) is output along the exhaust path (340).

[0114] The monitoring unit (500) can measure the pressure or change in shape caused by the first separator (142) deforming into the second shape to detect whether the fluid transfer pump device (1) is operating normally and whether the flow path is blocked.

[0115] The structure of the electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0116] The pressure generating unit 100 alternately generates positive and negative pressures. The pressure generating unit 100 may include any pump or pressure generating device capable of alternately generating positive and negative pressures, such as an electroosmotic pump, a diaphragm pump that draws in and discharges a first fluid by the movement of a diaphragm, a pump using a motor, a hydraulic pump, or the like.

[0117] By way of example, when the pressure generating unit (100) includes an electroosmotic pump, the electroosmotic pump may include, but is not limited to, at least one component that utilizes an electrochemical reaction to move the first fluid.

[0118] Electroosmotic pumps generate positive and negative pressures using the principle of electroosmosis. Electroosmotic pumps have a pump structure that utilizes the electroosmosis phenomenon that occurs when a voltage is applied using electrodes at both ends of a capillary or a porous membrane, causing the second fluid inside the electroosmotic pump to move. Therefore, electroosmotic pumps can move fluids through a simple electrochemical reaction. As a result, electroosmotic pumps do not require a mechanical configuration and can be operated without noise. In addition, the strength of pressure can be effectively adjusted in proportion to the magnitude of the voltage applied to the electroosmotic pump.

[0119] The electroosmotic pump may include a membrane (110) and one or more electrodes (120). The electroosmotic pump includes a membrane (110) that allows fluid movement, and a plate-shaped first electrode (120) and a plate-shaped second electrode (120) that are laminated and bonded to both sides of the membrane (110). The first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120) each include an electrode portion (122) that corresponds to the membrane region, and a terminal portion (130) that extends and protrudes from one side of the electrode portion (122).

[0120] The first electrode (120) and second electrode (120) are comprised of an electrode or substrate made of a porous or non-permeable material and an electrode material coated onto the substrate, and in the case of a non-permeable substrate, may be formed to include one or more fluid transfer passages (121).

[0121] The non-transparent material may include at least one of a conductive material, a semiconductor material, and a non-conductive material, where the conductive material includes at least one selected from carbon, nickel, copper, gold, silver, titanium, ruthenium, palladium, zinc, platinum, cobalt, lead, manganese, tin, iridium, iron, aluminum, gold oxide, silver oxide, ruthenium oxide, platinum oxide, lead oxide, iridium oxide, polypyrrole, a derivative of polypyrrole, polyaniline, a derivative of polyaniline, polythiophene, a derivative of polythiophene, and combinations thereof. Semiconductor materials include Sn, Si, SiC, Ge, Se, AlP, AlAs, AlSb, AlSb, GaP, GaAs, InP, InAs, InSb, ZnS, ZnSe, ZnTe, CdS, CdSe, CdTe, ZnO, SnO2, SiO2, CeO2, TiO2, WO3, Fe2O3, In2O3, CuO, polypyrrole, polypyrrole derivatives, polyaniline, polyaniline derivatives, polythiophene, polythiophene derivatives, Prussian blue, FeHCF (iron hexacyanoferrate), CuHCF (copper hexacyanoferrate), CoHCF (cobalt hexacyanoferrate), and NiHCF (nickel hexacyanoferrate), and combinations thereof.Non-conductive materials include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly(methyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyolefine, polyamide, polyester, aramide, acrylic, polyethylene oxide, polycaprolactone, polycarbonate, polyurethane (PU), polystyrene, polybenzimidazole (PBI), poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), poly(ether imide), poly(ether terephthalate), poly(methyl methacrylate ... imide), styrene-butadiene-styrene triblock copolymer (SBS), poly(ferrocenyldimethylsilane), polyimide (PI), and combinations thereof.

[0122] The second fluid present inside the electroosmotic pump can move by utilizing the second electrode (120) and the fluid movement passage (121) of the second electrode (120). As a result, in the electroosmotic pump, the second fluid inside the electroosmotic pump moves due to an electrochemical reaction between the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120), and the movement of the second fluid generates positive and negative pressures.

[0123] 4 shows the fluid transfer passage (121) as a circle, but the fluid transfer passage (121) of the present invention is not limited to this and may be formed in various shapes such as a rectangle, a triangle, a diamond, etc. depending on the type and volume of the second fluid, the combination form of the membrane (110) and the electrode (120), the manufacturing method of the electrode (120), etc.

[0124] In the electroosmotic pump, forward and reverse electrochemical reactions occur reversibly by alternately supplying voltage polarities to the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120). The repeated forward and reverse electrochemical reactions cause the second fluid inside the electroosmotic pump to repeatedly reciprocate. In addition, the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120) are repeatedly consumed and regenerated by the repeated forward and reverse reversible electrochemical reactions.

[0125] In FIG. 4, the membrane (110) and the electrodes (120) are shown in a rectangular or cubic shape, but the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the membrane (110) and the electrodes (120) may have various shapes depending on the application, size, connection form, etc. of the fluid transfer pump device (1).

[0126] The first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120) may be coupled to a surface of the membrane (110) perpendicular to the direction in which the second fluid moves or perpendicular to the direction in which positive and negative pressures are generated. The size of the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120) does not necessarily have to be the same as the size of one side of the membrane (110). The electrode (120) may be formed in a plate shape that covers one side of the membrane (110).

[0127] In addition, the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120 according to the embodiment of the present invention have a protruding terminal portion 130 for coupling with the power supply unit 200. That is, the terminal portion 130 is formed in a plate shape that is integrally extended and protruded from one side of the electrode 120.

[0128] Therefore, the terminal portion 130 has a shape that allows the power supply portion 200 to be coupled or contacted therewith. The terminal portion 130 does not necessarily need to be coated with an electrode coating material, but may be selectively coated therewith.

[0129] In one example, the membrane (110) can utilize any one or more of silicon dioxide (SiO2), barium titanate (BaTiO3), silicon carbide (SiC), silicon nitride (Si3N4), and zirconium dioxide (ZrO2).

[0130] In one example, the electrode 120 may be a carbon electrode, a polymer electrode, a metal, a metal oxide, a metal hexacyanoferrate, or the like, and any one or more of these or a mixture of any one or more of these may be used. In one example, the metal as the electrode coating material may include at least one of silver, zinc, lead, manganese, copper, tin, ruthenium, nickel, gold, titanium, palladium, platinum, cobalt, iron, aluminum, iridium, and combinations thereof. In addition, the carbon electrode may include at least one of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, carbon nanoparticles, fullerene, graphite, and combinations thereof.

[0131] In one example, the polymer electrode material may be one or more of the following, or a mixture of one or more of the following, used as the electrode coating material: polyaniline, a polyaniline derivative, polythiophene, a polythiophene derivative, polypyrrole, a polypyrrole derivative, polythionine, and a quinone polymer.

[0132] In addition, metal oxides can be used as electrode coating materials, and examples of metal oxides include silver / silver oxide (Ag / AgO2), platinum oxide, lead oxide, manganese oxide (MnOx), vanadium oxide (V2O5), molybdenum oxide (MoO3), tungsten oxide (WO3), ruthenium oxide (RuO2), iridium oxide, cerium oxide (CeO2), and polyoxometalates, or a mixture of at least one of these.

[0133] In addition, metal hexacyanoferrates can be used as electrode coating materials. Examples of metal hexacyanoferrates include Prussian blue, iron hexacyanoferrate (FeHCF), copper hexacyanoferrate (CuHCF), and cobalt hexacyanoferrate (CoHCF), or a mixture of at least one of these metal hexacyanoferrates.

[0134] The electrode coating material and the substrate may be formed into a structure in which a plurality of layers are laminated. The electrode coating material may be coated using at least one of drop-coating, dip-coating, spin-coating, spray coating, printing, pyrolysis, and electrodeposition.

[0135] The coated first electrode 120 and second electrode 120 can be treated by heat pressing or decal transfer to smooth the surface of the coated electrode material.

[0136] Also, as shown in FIG. 5, a first isolation part (140) and a second isolation part (150) may be laminated and coupled to the pressure generating part (100).

[0137] A first isolation part (140) is coupled to one side of the pressure generating part (100), and a second isolation part (150) is coupled to the other side of the pressure generating part (100) in a stacked manner. The first isolation part (140) and the second isolation part (150) are coupled to both sides of the pressure generating part (100) and are formed to make the pressure generating part (100) airtight.

[0138] Hereinafter, the structures of the first separator 140 and the second separator 150 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0139] As shown in Figures 6 and 8, the separator (140, 150) includes an separator frame (141, 151) that is laminated and bonded to the pressure generating part, and a flexible separator (142, 152) that is bonded to the inside of the separator frame (141, 151) to make the pressure generating part (100) airtight.

[0140] The first separator 142 and the second separator 152 are made of a deformable material so that their shape can be changed by the positive and negative pressures generated in the pressure generating unit 100. Therefore, they can correspond to a diaphragm whose shape changes depending on pressure.

[0141] In one example, the first separator 142 and the second separator 152 may be made of at least one of a polymer diaphragm and a metal diaphragm. For example, the polymer diaphragm may be made of at least one of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyimide (PI), Teflon, latex, polyurethane (PU), silicone, a multi-layer film including ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or a mixture of at least one of the above.

[0142] In one example, the first separator 142 and the second separator 152 may include one or more of aluminum, stainless steel, silver, and titanium, or a mixture of any one or more of these materials.

[0143] 7 and 9 show cross-sectional views of the first standoff (140) and the second standoff (150).

[0144] 7 and 9, the first separator (140) has a first separator frame (141) and a first separator (142) attached to an upper portion thereof. The second separator (150) has a second separator frame (151) and a second separator (152) attached to a lower portion thereof.

[0145] The separator frames (141, 151) and the separators (142, 152) may be bonded using at least one of a thermal fusion method, a UV bonding method, and an ultrasonic fusion method, but the embodiment is not limited thereto, and various methods for bonding materials may be applied.

[0146] As shown in Figures 7 and 9, the flexible separators (142, 152) may be formed to be longer than the inner length of the separator frames (141, 151) so that deformation in response to pressure can easily occur. The inner length of the separator frames (141, 151) corresponds to the diameter of the hollow formed inside the separator frames (141, 151). That is, the first separator (142) and the second separator (152) have a sagging shape. Therefore, deformation in response to positive and negative pressures generated by the pressure generating unit (100) can easily occur.

[0147] Furthermore, the flexible separator (142, 152) may be formed to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the transfer chamber (320) or the monitoring chamber (520) when it is joined to the separator frame (141, 151), thereby preventing pinching of the separator (142, 152) and improving the transfer efficiency of the first fluid.

[0148] 6 and 9 show that the first separator frame (141) and the second separator frame (151) have a rectangular shape, and the hollows of the first separator frame (141) and the second separator frame (151) are also formed in a rectangular shape. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this, and the frames may be formed in various shapes such as a circle, a polygon, etc. depending on the shape of the pressure generating unit (100), the manufacturing method of the frames, the purpose of use of the fluid transfer pump device (1), etc.

[0149] The first and second isolating parts 140 and 150 are coupled to make the pressure generating part 100 airtight, thereby preventing mixing of the first fluid, which is the fluid to be transported, with the second fluid inside the electroosmotic pump.

[0150] In addition, the flexible separators (142, 152) change shape in response to the pressure generated by the pressure generating unit (100). The pressure generated by the pressure generating unit (100) is transferred to the transfer chamber unit (300), the transfer path unit (400) and the monitoring unit (500) by the change in shape of the flexible separators (142, 152.

[0151] 10, the separator frame (141, 151) may be provided with one or more coupling protrusions (143, 153) for aligned coupling with one or more of the pressure generating unit (100), the transfer chamber unit (300), and the monitoring unit (500). The coupling protrusions (143, 153) may be coupled to coupling grooves provided in the pressure generating unit (100), the transfer chamber unit (300), and the monitoring unit (500) to form an aligned coupling structure.

[0152] The configuration of the power supply unit (200) will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0153] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the pressure generating unit (100) and the power supply unit (200) being connected together.

[0154] 11(a) shows the pressure generating unit (100) before it is coupled to the power supply unit (200). FIG. 11(b) shows the pressure generating unit (100) slidably coupled to the power supply unit (200). The power supply unit (200) includes one or more connectors (210) that can be coupled to the terminal units (130), respectively, and a support (220) that fixes and supports the connectors (210). The connectors (210) have the form of clips or tongues. The intervals between the connectors (210) are set to correspond to the intervals between the electrodes (120).

[0155] As shown in Fig. 12, the first connector (210) and the second connector (210) may be fixed to the support (220) at a preset interval (L). The interval (L) between the connectors may correspond to the interval between the plurality of electrodes (120) or the plurality of terminal portions (130). That is, the interval (L) between the first connector (210) coupled to the first electrode (120) and the second connector (210) coupled to the second electrode (120) may correspond to the interval between the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120) or the interval between the terminal portion (130) of the first electrode (120) and the terminal portion (130) of the second electrode (120). Therefore, the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120) may be slidably coupled to the first connector (210) and the second connector (210), respectively, without a separate operation.

[0156] The connector 210 includes a first leg 211 and a second leg 212 formed to elastically support both sides of the terminal portion 130. The connector 210 also includes a curved portion 213 formed to expand the gap between the side to which the terminal portion 130 is coupled.

[0157] By expanding the spacing between the sides where the curved portion (213) is coupled to the terminal portion (130), the terminal portion (130) and the connector (210) can easily slide together even if there is an error in the spacing (L) between the connectors (210) or in the position of the terminal portion (130).

[0158] 13, as the distance between the first leg portion 221 and the second leg portion 222 of the connector 210 decreases, a portion of the connector 210 comes into contact with the terminal portion 130. Therefore, the connector 210 can be deformed into the form shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 in order to increase the contact area with the terminal portion 130.

[0159] As shown in Figures 14 and 15, the connector 210 may further include a third leg (214) that is curved from at least one of the first leg (211) and the second leg (212) toward the terminal portion (130) and expands the contact surface with the terminal portion (130).

[0160] 15, when the electrode (120) and the connector (210) are coupled, not only the first leg (211) and the second leg (212) but also the third leg (214) contacts the terminal portion (130). Therefore, the contact area of ​​the connector (210) with the terminal portion (130) increases by the area of ​​the third leg (214).

[0161] Although Figures 14 and 15 show the third leg portion (214) as having a rectangular shape, this is not limited to this and the third leg portion (214) can be modified into various shapes depending on the shape of the terminal portion (130), the manufacturing method of the power supply portion (200), and the method of connecting the power supply portion (200) and the terminal portion (130).

[0162] In addition, the connector 210 is not necessarily limited to a clip type. The power supply terminal may be of a tongue type, a type in which the electrode is attached to the electrode 120 using magnetism, a type in which the electrode is fixed by applying external pressure to the upper and lower parts of the electrode 120, or a type that forms a contact surface with the electrode.

[0163] The connector 210 can be assembled by automation. For example, it can be packaged in a reel type, which is one of the packaging methods for automated assembly. The connector 210 can also be produced in the form of a surface mount device (SMD: Surface Mounting Technology). Since it is configured in the form of a surface mount device, the connector 210 can be designed in a form that can be directly mounted on the surface of a power circuit board. By packaging the connector 210 in a reel type and producing it in the form of a surface mount device, it is possible to reduce production costs and shorten assembly time.

[0164] The power supply unit 200 applies a voltage to the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120. At this time, there is a voltage difference between the voltages applied to the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120. Therefore, an oxidation-reduction reaction occurs between the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120 due to the voltage difference.

[0165] The redox reaction of the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120) causes a charge imbalance, which causes cations to migrate through the membrane surface within the electrode (120) to balance the charge. One of the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120) produces cations through an electrochemical reaction, and the other consumes the cations. In this case, the cations produced or consumed by the electrochemical reaction may be monovalent cations. The type of cation is not necessarily limited to monovalent cations, and may include hydrogen ions (H + ), sodium ion (Na + ), potassium ion (K + ) and various other ions can be used.

[0166] The cations slide across the negatively charged surface of the membrane (110) due to the voltage applied to both ends, and hydrated water molecules are linked to water molecules connected to them by hydrogen bonds, creating an electroosmotic pump that moves the second fluid at a rapid rate.

[0167] As described above, the pressure generated in the pressure generating unit (100) causes the deformation of the second separator (152). Due to the deformation of the second separator (152), the pressure generated in the pressure generating unit (100) is transferred to the transfer chamber unit (300).

[0168] The structure of the transfer chamber part 300 will now be described with reference to FIGS.

[0169] The transfer chamber portion (300) includes a transfer chamber frame (310) that defines an outline shape, and a transfer chamber (320) that is formed in a concave shape in the transfer chamber frame (310) facing the second separator (152).

[0170] The transfer chamber frame (310) has a concave shape on the surface that is coupled with the second separator (152) to form the transfer chamber (320). Thus, the transfer chamber frame (310) includes a bottom (311) that forms a concave space, and a peripheral portion (312) that surrounds the bottom (311). At this time, the cross-sectional area of ​​the peripheral portion (312) decreases from the top (second separator) of the peripheral portion (312) to the bottom (311). Thus, the peripheral portion (312) forms an inclined surface.

[0171] In addition, the peripheral portion (312) is formed with an inlet (313) through which the first fluid is input and an outlet (314) through which the first fluid is output. That is, the inlet (313) and the outlet (314) may be formed on any of the inclined surfaces. Furthermore, the inlet (313) and the outlet (314) are formed to face each other on the peripheral surface (312). That is, the inlet (313) and the outlet (314) may be formed on surfaces facing each other among the plurality of inclined surfaces. This allows the input and output of the first fluid to be separated and smoothly performed.

[0172] At this time, the inlet (313) and the outlet (314) are mentioned for convenience of explanation, and do not refer to inlets through which the first fluid is drawn, but rather to holes formed in the peripheral portion (312) forming the transfer chamber (320) and connected to the inlet passage (330) and the outlet passage (340).

[0173] 17 and 18, the transfer chamber part 300 is coupled to the second separator part 150. The transfer chamber 320 may correspond to a space for transmitting pressure or a space for moving a first fluid in response to deformation of the second separator 152. Therefore, the first fluid, which is a fluid to be transferred, can be input and output through the transfer chamber 320.

[0174] The transfer chamber (320) is open to the second separator (152) side, but is formed of an upper part to which the separator (152) is joined to be airtight, a bottom part (311) formed on the opposite side of the separator (152), and a peripheral part (312) formed between the upper part and the bottom part. That is, the transfer chamber (320) has an upper part that is airtight by the second separator (152), and corresponds to a space formed by the bottom part (311) and peripheral part (312) that are concavely formed in the transfer chamber frame (310).

[0175] The cross-sectional area of ​​the top of the transfer chamber 320 is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the bottom 311. Thus, the peripheral edge 312 is formed to form an inclined surface.

[0176] FIG. 18 shows a modified example of the second separator (152).

[0177] 18(a) shows the shape of the second separator (152) when no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100). When no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100), the second separator (152) has a shape that hangs down in the direction of gravity. In other words, when no pressure is generated, the second separator (152) has a shape that bows toward the transfer chamber (320) or the bottom (311).

[0178] 18(b) shows the shape of the second separator (152) when negative pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100). When negative pressure acts on the second separator (152), the second separator (152) deforms toward the opposite side of the bottom (311). The negative pressure generated in the pressure generating unit (100) due to the deformation of the second separator (152) is transferred to the transfer chamber (320). That is, the second separator (152) deforms into a first shape in response to the negative pressure, and thus the first fluid is input into the transfer chamber (320) through the suction passage (330).

[0179] The first shape may correspond to at least one of a parabolic shape in which the second separator (152) is bent upward, or a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent inside the second separator frame (310). Also, the first shape may correspond to at least one of a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent toward the pressure generating unit (100), or a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent in a direction in which the first fluid is suctioned.

[0180] 18(c) shows the shape of the second separator (152) when a positive pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100). When a positive pressure is applied to the second separator (152), the second separator (152) deforms toward the bottom (311) in accordance with the shape of the inclined surface. Thus, the deformation of the second separator (152) transfers the positive pressure generated in the pressure generating unit (100) to the transfer chamber (320). That is, the second separator (152) deforms into a second shape in response to the positive pressure, and thus the second fluid is output from the transfer chamber (320) through the discharge path (340).

[0181] The second shape may correspond to at least one of a parabolic shape in which the second separator (152) is bent downward, or a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent outward from the second separator frame (151). Also, the second form may correspond to at least one of a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent in the opposite direction to the pressure generating unit (100), or a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent in the discharge direction of the first fluid.

[0182] Also, as shown in Fig. 18(c), when the second separator (152) is deformed into the second shape, it has a shape that is bent more than the basic shape of the second separator (152) shown in Fig. 18(a). That is, when a positive pressure is generated, the second separator (152) is formed with a larger deformation rate toward the bottom (311) than the basic shape.

[0183] Even when the second separator is deformed into the second shape, there is a gap between the second separator (152) and the suction port (313) and discharge port (314) because the suction port (313) and discharge port (314) are formed on an inclined surface. Therefore, even when a positive pressure is generated, the first fluid can move between the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) through the transfer chamber (320). In addition, because the suction port (313) and discharge port (314) are formed on an inclined surface, when the first fluid moves through the transfer chamber (320), bubbles generated can be smoothly discharged through the discharge passage (340).

[0184] If the peripheral portion (312) of the transfer chamber (320) is formed vertically without an inclined surface, the second separator (152) may be pinched at the corner where the bottom portion (311) and the peripheral portion (312) meet. Furthermore, bubbles and impurities generated as the first fluid moves may not be discharged smoothly, and the bubbles and impurities may accumulate in the corner. This reduces the transfer efficiency of the first fluid.

[0185] However, when the peripheral portion (312) of the transfer chamber (320) is formed to include an inclined surface, the pinching phenomenon of the corners of the second separator (152) is reduced. Also, bubbles that are generated as the first fluid moves are more easily discharged. In addition, the accumulation of impurities in the corners is reduced, and the impurities are more easily discharged. As a result, when the peripheral portion (312) of the transfer chamber (320) is formed to include an inclined surface, the transfer efficiency of the first fluid is improved.

[0186] The suction port (313) and the discharge port (314) formed in the peripheral portion (312) respectively include an extended suction passage (330) and a discharge passage (340). The specific configurations of the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) will be described in detail with reference to Figures 19 to 21 described below.

[0187] 19, the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are formed to be inclined outward from the suction port (313) and the discharge port (314), respectively. Also, the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are formed to have a cross-sectional area that increases with increasing distance from the transfer chamber (320).

[0188] That is, the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) may be formed to be inclined based on the direction of the pressure generated by the pressure generating unit (100). In this case, the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) may be formed to have an angle between 5.6° and 60°. However, the angle of the passage is not limited thereto, and may be formed at various angles depending on the diameter of the passage, the type and volume of the first fluid, the strength and direction of the pressure, etc.

[0189] The suction passage (330) may be divided into an upper suction passage portion (331) and a lower suction passage portion (332). The discharge passage (340) may be divided into an upper discharge passage portion (341) and a lower discharge passage portion (342).

[0190] The upper suction passage (331) and the upper discharge passage (341) are connected to the transfer chamber (320) via the suction port (313) and the discharge port (314), respectively. Thus, one end of the upper suction passage (331) and the upper discharge passage (341) is connected to the peripheral portion (312) of the transfer chamber (320), respectively. The other ends of the upper suction passage (331) and the upper discharge passage (341) are connected to the lower suction passage (332) and the lower discharge passage (342), respectively.

[0191] The upper suction passage (331) and the upper discharge passage (341) are arranged so that the flow paths are not perpendicular to the horizontal plane but form a diagonal line. That is, the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are formed so as to be inclined outward, so that the upper suction passage (331) and the upper discharge passage (341) are formed so as to be spaced apart from each other. Therefore, the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are arranged in an A-shape.

[0192] However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and may include a case where the intake passage and the discharge passage are formed vertically or horizontally to a horizontal plane or a pressure generating direction.

[0193] In addition, the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are configured in such a way that the cross-sectional area or the diameter increases. The upper passage (331, 341) and the lower passage (332, 342) are distinguished by the difference in the rate of increase in the cross-sectional area or the diameter. The rate of increase in the cross-sectional area or the diameter of the upper passage (331, 341) is larger than that of the lower passage (332, 342).

[0194] That is, in the case of the upper suction passage (331), the suction port (313) has the narrowest cross-sectional area or diameter, and the cross-sectional area or diameter increases toward the lower suction passage (333). In the case of the upper discharge passage (341), the discharge port (314) has the narrowest cross-sectional area or diameter, and the cross-sectional area or diameter increases toward the lower discharge passage (343).

[0195] The cross-sectional area or diameter increase rate of the lower suction passage (332) and the lower discharge passage (342) is larger than the cross-sectional area or diameter increase rate of the upper suction passage (331) and the upper discharge passage (341). However, the cross-sectional area increase rate of the lower suction passage (332) and the lower discharge passage (342) is not necessarily limited to be larger than the cross-sectional area increase rate of the upper suction passage (331) and the upper discharge passage (341). The cross-sectional area increase rate of the lower suction passage (332) and the lower discharge passage (342) may be the same as the cross-sectional area increase rate of the upper suction passage (331) and the upper discharge passage (341) or may be configured in the form of a straight line with no cross-sectional area increase, taking into consideration the size of the suction valve (360) and the discharge valve (370) used, the type of the first fluid, the purpose of use, and the size of the flow path transfer pump device (1).

[0196] The lower suction passage (332) and the lower discharge passage (342) are divided into an inclined surface and a valve coupling hole. The inclined surface is formed to have a curvature. That is, the inclined surface is formed in a streamlined shape. The valve coupling hole is configured in a shape that can be coupled to the suction valve (360) or the discharge valve (370) according to the size of the valve.

[0197] As described above, as the flow paths (330, 340) are obliquely disposed and the cross-sectional area or diameter of the flow paths (330, 340) increases, the generation of vortexes is reduced and the flow of the first fluid is smoothed even when the first fluid moves along the flow paths (330, 340). In addition, the inclined surface of the lower part (332, 342) of the flow paths is formed in a streamlined shape, thereby reducing the vortexes of the first fluid.

[0198] However, the shape of the flow paths (330, 340) is not necessarily limited to a shape in which the cross-sectional area or diameter increases, and is arranged at an angle. As shown in Fig. 20, the flow paths (330, 340) may be arranged at an angle, but may be formed with a constant diameter. Also, as shown in Fig. 21, the flow paths (330, 340) may be formed with one connection flow path (350) connected to the transfer chamber (320), and an inlet path (330) and an outlet path (340) branching from the connection flow path.

[0199] 20, when the flow paths (330, 340) are arranged horizontally, the suction path (330) and the discharge path (340) are connected to both sides of the transfer chamber frame (310) rather than to the bottom of the transfer chamber frame (310). That is, the suction path lower part (332) and the discharge path lower part (342) are arranged on the opposing sides of the transfer chamber frame (310).

[0200] As shown in Fig. 21, when the flow paths (330, 340) are arranged in a T-shape, the intake path (330) and the discharge path (340) are replaced by one T-shaped flow path instead of being separate. That is, a connecting flow path (350), which is a central flow path of the T-shaped flow path, is connected to the bottom (311) of the transfer chamber frame (310). The intake path (330) and the discharge path (340) are branched into the connecting flow path (350). Therefore, in the case of the T-shaped flow path arrangement, the intake and discharge directions of the first fluid are formed perpendicular to the pressure generation direction.

[0201] In the case of the horizontal flow path arrangement, negative pressure draws the first fluid along the intake flow path (330) and the first fluid moves to the transfer chamber (320). When positive pressure is generated, the first fluid present in the transfer chamber (320) moves to the discharge flow path (340).

[0202] In the case of the T-shaped flow path arrangement, the first fluid is sucked in through the intake path (330) by negative pressure. The sucked in first fluid moves to the transfer chamber (320) through the connecting flow path (350). When positive pressure is generated, the first fluid present in the transfer chamber (320) is discharged through the discharge path (340).

[0203] An intake valve (360) and a discharge valve (370) for one-way transport of the first fluid are connected to the intake passage lower portion (332) and the discharge passage lower portion (342).

[0204] Hereinafter, the structures of the valve portion (360, 370) and the transfer path portion (400) will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0205] 22, a suction valve (360) and a discharge valve (370) may be connected to the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340), respectively. The suction valve (360) and the discharge valve (370) collectively refer to components for preventing backflow of the first fluid. Thus, the suction valve (360) and the discharge valve (370) may include a check valve.

[0206] The intake valve 360 ​​is connected to the intake passage 330 and allows the first fluid to enter the transfer chamber 320 and blocks the first fluid from entering the transfer chamber 320. The discharge valve 370 is connected to the discharge passage 340 and allows the first fluid to exit the transfer chamber 320 and blocks the first fluid from entering the transfer chamber 320.

[0207] The transfer path unit (400) is coupled to the transfer chamber unit (300) from the opposite side of the second isolation unit (150). The transfer path unit (400) is formed with a pair of valve coupling holes (420) to which the suction valve (360) and the discharge valve (370) are attached and fixed. Thus, the transfer chamber unit (300) and the transfer path unit (400) form a stacked structure by inserting the valves (360, 370) into the valve coupling holes (420).

[0208] The transfer path unit (400) includes an inflow path (430) through which the first fluid is input to the transfer chamber unit (300) and an outlet path (440) through which the first fluid is output from the transfer chamber unit (300). That is, the inflow path (430) is connected to the suction valve (360) or the suction path (330) and refers to a path through which the first fluid is input to the transfer chamber unit (300). The outlet path (440) is connected to the discharge valve (370) or the discharge path (340) and refers to a path through which the first fluid is output from the transfer chamber unit (300).

[0209] The inlet path 430 may include a connector that connects to a storage container in which the first fluid is stored, and the outlet path 440 may include a discharge device for discharging the first fluid or a connector that connects to a discharge device.

[0210] When the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are arranged in an A-shape as shown in FIG. 19, the inlet passage (430) and the discharge passage (440) are formed along the stacking direction of the fluid transfer pump device (1).

[0211] When the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are arranged horizontally or in a T-shape as shown in FIG. 20 or 21, the inlet passage (430) and the discharge passage (430) are formed perpendicular to the stacking direction of the fluid transfer pump device (1).

[0212] Hereinafter, the configuration of the monitoring section (500) will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0213] The monitoring unit 500 detects the normal operation of the fluid transfer pump device 1 and the blockage of the first fluid flow path 330, 340. The monitoring unit 500 is stacked and coupled to the first isolation unit 140 on the opposite side to the pressure generating unit 100.

[0214] The monitoring unit 500 includes a monitoring chamber frame 510 laminated and coupled to the first isolation unit 140, a monitoring chamber 520 formed inside the monitoring chamber frame 510, and a pressure sensor 530 for measuring the pressure of the monitoring chamber 520. The pressure sensor 530 may be connected via a connection terminal 531.

[0215] The connecting terminal 531 can convert the information measured by the pressure sensor 530 into an electrical signal and transmit it to an external device. The connecting terminal 531 is not limited to the form shown in Fig. 25, and can be formed in the form of a cable directly connected to a PCB (Printed circuit board).

[0216] Also, in one embodiment, a monitoring unit control circuit may be provided instead of the connection terminal 531. The monitoring unit control circuit may determine whether the flow path is blocked and whether the fluid transfer pump device 1 is operating normally, using the pressure measured by the pressure sensor 530. Furthermore, when the monitoring unit control circuit detects the flow path being blocked and the fluid transfer pump device 1 being operating abnormally, it may generate a notification signal.

[0217] The monitoring chamber 520 may correspond to a space formed by the monitoring chamber frame 510 and the first separator 142. Thus, the pressure in the monitoring chamber 520 changes with the deformation of the first separator 142.

[0218] The monitoring chamber frame (510) may have one or more coupling protrusions (512) for aligned coupling. The coupling protrusions (512) may be coupled to coupling grooves (143) provided in the first separator (140). Thus, the first separator (140) and the monitoring unit (500) are stacked and coupled, and the pressure in the monitoring chamber (520) changes according to the deformation of the first separator (142).

[0219] The monitoring chamber frame 510 is coupled to one surface of the first separator frame 141. The monitoring chamber frame 510 may be coupled to a surface symmetrical to the surface where the pressure generating unit 100 and the first separator frame 141 are coupled.

[0220] The monitoring chamber frame 510 includes a groove or internal space engraved therein to form a monitoring chamber 520. The monitoring chamber 520 refers to a space in which the pressure or spatial shape changes with the deformation of the first separator 142.

[0221] A pressure sensor 530 may be connected to the monitoring chamber 520. A pressure sensor connection port 511 that communicates with the monitoring chamber 520 is formed in the monitoring chamber frame 510. The pressure sensor 530 is inserted and fixed into the pressure sensor connection port 511. This allows the pressure sensor 530 to measure pressure changes in the monitoring chamber 520.

[0222] The pressure measurement sensor 530 measures the pressure or change in shape of the monitoring chamber 520. The pressure sensor 530 can detect whether the fluid transfer pump device 1 is operating normally by using a pressure change pattern measured in the monitoring chamber 520 over a certain period of time and / or an average pressure value measured in the monitoring chamber 520 over a certain period of time.

[0223] The monitoring unit (500) is provided separately from the flow paths (330, 340, 430, 440) through which the first fluid moves. That is, the monitoring unit (500) is not directly connected to the flow paths (330, 340) through which the first fluid moves, but determines whether the fluid transfer pump device (1) is operating normally or whether the flow paths (330, 340, 430, 440) are blocked.

[0224] 25(a) shows the shape of the first separator (142) when no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100). When no pressure is generated, the first separator (142) has a drooping shape according to the direction of gravity. Therefore, when no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100), the first separator (142) has a parabolic shape bent downward or toward the pressure generating unit (100).

[0225] FIG. 25(b) shows the shape of the first separator (142) when a positive pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100). When a positive pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100), the first separator (142) is deformed into a second shape. The second shape refers to a shape in which the first separator (142) is deformed toward the opposite side of the monitoring chamber (520). Alternatively, the second shape may correspond to one or more of a shape in which the first separator (142) is bent toward the inside of the first separator frame (141). Also, the second shape may correspond to one or more of a shape in which the first separator (142) is bent toward the pressure generating unit (100) or a shape in which the first separator (142) is bent toward the discharge direction of the first fluid.

[0226] FIG. 25(c) shows the shape of the first separator (142) when negative pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100). When negative pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100), the first separator (142) is deformed into a first shape. As shown in FIG. 25(b), the first shape refers to a shape in which the first separator (142) is deformed toward the monitoring chamber (520). Alternatively, the first shape may correspond to one or more of a shape in which the first separator (142) is bent outward from the first separator frame (141). Also, the first shape may correspond to one or more of a shape in which the first separator (142) is bent in the opposite direction to the pressure generating unit (100) or a shape in which the first separator (142) is bent in the direction of suction of the first fluid.

[0227] When the first separator (142) deforms in response to positive pressure, it has a shape that is bent more than the basic shape of the first separator (142) shown in Fig. 25(a). That is, when positive pressure acts on the first separator (142), the deformation rate of the first separator (142) increases. As a result, the first separator (142) has a shape that is bent (deformed) further on the opposite side of the monitoring chamber (520) than when it has its basic shape.

[0228] As described above, the second separator 152 and the first separator 142 are deformed in the same direction or shape in response to the negative and positive pressures generated by the pressure generating unit 100 .

[0229] The above description of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be easily modified into other specific forms without changing the technical idea or essential features of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the above-described embodiments are illustrative in all respects and are not limiting. For example, each component described as a single type can be implemented in a distributed manner, and similarly, each component described as a distributed type can be implemented in a combined form.

[0230] The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims set forth below rather than the above detailed description, and all modifications and variations derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalent concepts should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. In the fluid transfer pump device, A pressure generating unit that electrochemically generates positive and negative pressures alternately; a first isolation part coupled to one side of the pressure generating part; a second isolation part coupled to the other side of the pressure generating part; and The fluid transfer pump device includes a transfer chamber portion coupled to the second isolation portion on an opposite side of the pressure generating portion.

2. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1 , wherein the pressure generating portion, the first isolation portion, the second isolation portion and the transfer chamber portion are stacked in one direction and integrally coupled to each other.

3. 3. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 2, wherein the pressure generating portion, the first isolation portion, the second isolation portion and the transfer chamber portion are formed and aligned to have a rectangular cross-sectional contour shape in a stacking direction.

4. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1 , wherein the pressure generating section is an electroosmotic pump.

5. The electroosmotic pump comprises: A membrane that allows fluid movement; and 5. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 4, further comprising a plate-shaped first electrode and a plate-shaped second electrode laminated and bonded to both sides of said membrane.

6. The first isolation portion is A first separator frame laminated and bonded to the pressure generating portion; and 2. The fluid transfer pump apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a flexible first separator coupled to an interior of said first separator frame to provide an airtight seal around said pressure generating portion.

7. The first separator frame and the first separator include:

7. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 6, wherein the fluid transfer pump device is bonded by using at least one of a thermal fusion method, a UV (Ultraviolet Ray) bonding method, and an ultrasonic fusion method.

8. 2. The fluid transfer pump apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a monitoring section coupled to the first isolation section opposite the pressure generating section.

9. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 8 , wherein the pressure generating section, the first isolation section, the second isolation section, the transfer chamber section and the monitoring section are stacked in one direction and integrally coupled to each other.

10. 9. The fluid transfer pump device of claim 8, wherein the pressure generating portion, the first isolation portion, the second isolation portion, the transfer chamber portion and the monitoring portion are formed and aligned to have a rectangular cross-sectional contour shape in the stacking direction.

11. The monitoring unit is a monitoring chamber frame laminated and coupled to the first isolation part; a monitoring chamber formed within the monitoring chamber frame; and 9. The fluid transfer pump apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the monitoring chamber.

12. The monitoring chamber frame includes: a pressure sensor connection port is formed in communication with the monitoring chamber; 12. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 11, wherein the pressure sensor is inserted and fixed in the pressure sensor connection port.

13. The second isolation portion is A second separator frame laminated and bonded to the pressure generating portion; and 2. The fluid transfer pump apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a flexible second separator coupled to an interior of said second separator frame to provide an airtight seal around said pressure generating portion.

14. The second separator frame and the second separator include:

14. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 13, wherein the fluid transfer pump device is bonded by using at least one of a thermal fusion method, a UV (Ultraviolet Ray) bonding method, and an ultrasonic fusion method.

15. The transfer chamber portion includes: a transfer chamber frame stacked and coupled to the second isolation portion; a transfer chamber formed within the transfer chamber frame to accommodate a fluid to be transferred; an intake section through which the fluid to be transferred is input into the transfer chamber; and 2. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1, further comprising a discharge portion through which the fluid to be transferred is output from the transfer chamber.

16. The transfer chamber portion includes: a transfer chamber frame stacked and coupled to the second isolation portion; A transfer chamber formed within the transfer chamber frame to accommodate a fluid to be transferred; and 2. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1, further comprising an intake and discharge section through which the fluid to be transferred is input and output to the transfer chamber.

17. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1 , further comprising a transfer path portion coupled to the transfer chamber portion on an opposite side of the second isolation portion.

18. The transport path section includes: a transfer path frame that is stacked and coupled to the transfer chamber; An inflow path through which the fluid to be transferred is input to the transfer chamber portion; and 18. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 17, further comprising a discharge path through which the fluid to be transferred is output from the transfer chamber portion.

19. The inlet path and the outlet path are The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 18, which is formed along a stacking direction of the fluid transfer pump device.

20. The inlet path and the outlet path are 20. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 18, wherein the fluid transfer pump device is formed perpendicular to a stacking direction of the fluid transfer pump devices.

21. The pump further includes a valve portion that allows or blocks the flow of the fluid to be transferred, The valve portion includes: an intake valve that allows the fluid to be transferred to the transfer chamber and blocks the fluid from being output; and 18. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 17, further comprising a discharge valve for allowing the output of the fluid to be transferred to the transfer chamber and blocking the input of the fluid to the transfer chamber.

22. The transport path portion includes:

22. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 21, further comprising a pair of valve connection ports to which the suction valve and the discharge valve are mounted and fixed.

23. At least one of the first isolation portion, the second isolation portion, and the transfer chamber portion, which are combined in a stacked manner, one or more coupling protrusions for aligned coupling; and 2. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1, wherein one or more coupling grooves are formed corresponding to the coupling protrusions.

24. In electroosmotic pumps, A membrane that allows for fluid movement; and The membrane includes a first electrode and a second electrode provided on both sides thereof, The membrane, the first electrode, and the second electrode are stacked and combined in a plate shape, Each of the first electrode and the second electrode is An electrode portion corresponding to the membrane region; and The electroosmotic pump further comprises a terminal portion integrally extending and projecting from one side of the electrode portion.

25. 25. The electroosmotic pump according to claim 24, wherein the terminal portion is configured in a plate shape.

26. a power supply unit connected to the terminal unit, The power supply unit includes: First and second connectors each coupled to the terminal portion; and 25. The electroosmotic pump of claim 24, further comprising a support that fixedly supports the first and second connectors.

27. The first and second connectors are 27. The electroosmotic pump of claim 26, wherein the electroosmotic pump is fixed on the support at a preset spacing that corresponds to the spacing between the first and second electrodes, and the first and second connectors are slidingly coupled to the first and second electrodes, respectively.

28. Each of the first and second connectors comprises:

27. The electroosmotic pump of claim 26, further comprising a first leg and a second leg formed to elastically support opposite sides of the terminal portion.

29. The first leg and the second leg are 29. The electroosmotic pump of claim 28, further comprising a curved portion that elastically supports the terminal portion and is formed such that the gap between the curved portion and the side surface to which the terminal portion is coupled increases.

30. 29. The electroosmotic pump of claim 28, further comprising a third leg curved from at least one of the first leg and the second leg toward the terminal portion to expand the contact surface with the terminal portion.

31. In the fluid transfer device, a flexible isolating material through which positive and negative pressures are alternately transmitted; and a transfer chamber portion coupled to the flexible standoff; The transfer chamber portion includes: a transfer chamber frame that defines a contour of the transfer chamber portion; and The fluid transfer device further comprises a transfer chamber formed in the transfer chamber frame in a concave shape facing the flexible separator, for inputting and outputting a fluid to be transferred.

32. The transfer chamber comprises: an upper portion that is open to the separator but is airtight when the separator is joined; a bottom formed on an opposite side of the separator; and 32. The fluid transfer device of claim 31, including a perimeter formed between said upper and lower portions.

33. 33. The fluid transfer device according to claim 32, wherein a cross-sectional area of ​​the top portion is larger than a cross-sectional area of ​​the bottom portion, and the peripheral edge portion is formed to form an inclined surface.

34. When a positive pressure is applied to the transfer chamber through the separator, 34. The fluid transfer device according to claim 33, wherein the separator deforms toward the bottom in accordance with the shape of the inclined surface to discharge the fluid to be transferred.

35. When negative pressure is applied to the transfer chamber through the isolator, 34. The fluid transfer device according to claim 33, wherein the separator is adapted to deform to an opposite side of the bottom portion to suck in the fluid to be transferred.

36. an inlet through which the fluid to be transported is input; and 34. The fluid transfer device according to claim 33, wherein an outlet through which the fluid to be transferred is discharged from the transfer chamber is formed on the peripheral edge portion.

37. 37. The fluid transfer device according to claim 36, wherein the inlet and the outlet are formed opposite each other on the peripheral edge portion.

38. An intake passage extending from the intake port; and 37. The fluid transfer device of claim 36, further comprising a discharge passage extending from the discharge port.

39. 39. The fluid transfer device according to claim 38, wherein the suction passage and the discharge passage are formed at an incline so as to face outward with respect to the suction port and the discharge port, respectively.

40. 39. The fluid transfer device according to claim 38, wherein the suction passage and the discharge passage are formed so that their cross-sectional areas increase with increasing distance from the transfer chamber.

41. 34. The fluid transfer device according to claim 33, wherein suction and discharge ports for inputting and outputting the fluid to be transferred are formed in the bottom portion.

42. A connecting passage extending from the suction / discharge port; and 42. The fluid transfer device according to claim 41, further comprising an intake passage and a discharge passage branched off from the connecting passage.

43. an intake valve connected to the intake passage, allowing the fluid to be transferred to the transfer chamber and blocking the fluid from being output; and 43. The fluid transfer device of claim 42, further comprising a discharge valve connected to the discharge passage for allowing output of the fluid to be transferred to the transfer chamber and blocking input of the fluid to the transfer chamber.

44. A pressure generating unit that electrochemically generates positive and negative pressures alternately; and The pressure generating unit further includes a separator frame laminated and coupled to one side of the pressure generating unit, The flexible separator comprises:

32. The fluid transfer device of claim 31, wherein the separator frame is bonded to an interior portion thereof to make the pressure generating portion airtight.

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