Centrifugal tube, single-tube centrifugal device, single-tube centrifugal reaction method, and single-tube centrifugal system for continuous samples
The centrifuge tube and single-tube centrifuge device provide a compact and adaptable solution for biochemical analysis of small or continuous samples, addressing the space and infrastructure challenges of existing systems and enabling efficient and cost-effective analysis in various settings.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2024570898
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2022-06-02
- Publication Date
- 2025-06-17
- Estimated Expiration
- 2042-06-02
AI Technical Summary
Existing automatic analysis systems for large numbers of samples require significant space and infrastructure, making them unsuitable for local or non-urban hospitals and research institutions. Additionally, these systems are not adaptable to small or continuous sample analysis, which can be challenging due to sample collection variability and economic considerations.
A centrifuge tube and single-tube centrifuge device designed for vertical centrifugation, which includes an outer tube, a cap, and an inner tube with a reaction chamber and check valves. This setup allows for efficient analysis of small or continuous samples without the need for extensive infrastructure, as it can be operated with a single tube and is adaptable to varying sample numbers and delivery times.
The centrifuge tube and single-tube centrifuge device enable rapid and convenient biochemical analysis of small or continuous samples, reducing the need for extensive space and infrastructure. This solution is cost-effective and adaptable, making it suitable for local or non-urban settings and addressing the challenges of sample variability and economic efficiency.
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Figure 2025518617000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a centrifuge tube, a single-tube centrifuge device, and a single-tube centrifugation reaction method. Specifically, it relates to a centrifuge tube capable of vertical centrifugation, a centrifuge device capable of centrifugation with a single tube, and a single-tube centrifugation reaction method performed by the centrifuge tube and the centrifuge device.
Background Art
[0002] At present when biotechnology is developing rapidly, various automatic analysis methods and analysis systems for a large number of samples are constantly being announced. Due to the development of these technologies, systematic sample analysis is changing more conveniently and rapidly. However, for some biochemical analyses with special requirements, the required raw materials or consumables may be expensive, or it may be difficult to obtain samples, and they cannot be directly used in analysis systems for a large number of samples.
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0003] In addition, an automatic analysis system applied to a large number of samples needs to combine sufficient space and environment, and is usually installed in a research center or a medical center. However, hospitals or research institutions in local or non-urban areas do not necessarily have sufficient space for installation. When rapid analysis results are required, an analysis method and system that do not occupy much space are needed.
[0004] In addition, depending on the different analysis targets, the number of samples collected and the delivery time may also be different. Conventional analysis methods usually analyze a relatively large number of samples at one time to better meet the economic effect. Therefore, a system that can be sensitive to the number of samples and the delivery time is also needed.
[0005] Therefore, there is also a market demand for analysis methods applicable to a small number of samples or continuous samples, as well as the equipment and consumables required therefor.
Means for Solving the Problem
[0006] To achieve the above object, the present invention provides a centrifuge tube. This includes an outer tube containing a first accommodation space, a cap fitted to the outer tube to seal the outer tube, and an inner tube positioned in the first accommodation space. The inner tube has an opening used for adding a reaction mixture into the inner tube, and a joint component through which the inner tube is fitted into the outer tube. The inner tube of the centrifuge tube is coaxial with the outer tube. The direction from the tube mouth to the bottom of the outer tube is the Z-axis, and the axis is a line connecting the center positions of the planes perpendicular to the Z-axis in the inner tube and the outer tube. It also includes a reaction chamber that communicates with the opening, accommodates and reacts the reaction mixture added from the opening, and includes a first narrow mouth between the reaction chamber and the opening, a first drain port that communicates the reaction chamber with the first accommodation space and is symmetrically provided in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis.
[0007] Preferably, the centrifuge tube further includes a first check valve provided at the first drain port, and the opening and closing of the first check valve is controlled by a first centrifugal force. When it is open, the waste liquid in the reaction chamber is discharged from the reaction chamber to the first accommodation space through the first drain port.
[0008] Preferably, the reaction chamber includes a first reaction space and a second reaction space. The first reaction space communicates with the opening and further includes the first narrow mouth between the first reaction space and the opening. A second narrow mouth is included between the first reaction space and the second reaction space. The first drain port is located in the first reaction space, and the second reaction space includes a second drain port.
[0009] Preferably, it further includes a first check valve provided at the second drain port, and the opening and closing of the first check valve is controlled by a first centrifugal force. When it is open, the waste liquid in the reaction chamber is discharged from the reaction chamber to the first accommodation space through the second drain port.
[0010] Preferably, the centrifuge tube further includes a replenishing agent chamber, and the replenishing agent chamber includes a reagent chamber, a temporary holding chamber, and a second check valve, and the temporary holding chamber communicates with the reaction chamber.
[0011] Preferably, the second check valve is a mechanical valve, an electrically controlled valve, or a magnetically controlled valve.
[0012] Preferably, the centrifuge tube further includes a combination of a plurality of check valves and a drain port provided symmetrically with respect to the axis.
[0013] Preferably, the narrow mouth and the Z-axis form an included angle of 30 to 60 degrees.
[0014] Preferably, the narrow mouth and the Z-axis form an included angle of 30 to 45 degrees.
[0015] Based on another object of the present invention, a single-tube centrifuge device is provided. It includes a centrifuge and a fixing component, the fixing component fixes the above-mentioned centrifuge tube, and the centrifuge has the same axis as the centrifuge tube.
[0016] Based on still another object of the present invention, a single-tube centrifugal reaction method is further provided. It includes adding a reaction mixture to the above-mentioned centrifuge tube for reaction, attaching the centrifuge tube to the above-mentioned single-tube centrifuge device, fixing the centrifuge tube by the fixing component, and removing waste liquid by centrifuging the centrifuge tube.
Advantages of the Invention
[0017] Due to the above technical features, the present invention has at least the following advantages. (1) With the centrifuge tube of the embodiment of the present invention, it can be operated with a single tube, and analysis can be performed without the need to prepare a plurality of samples.
[0018] (2) By using the centrifuge tube and the single-tube centrifuge device according to the embodiments of the present invention, centrifugation can be easily performed with a single tube, and after the reaction, the waste liquid can be removed, reducing consumables.
[0019] (3) By combining the centrifuge tube, the single-tube centrifuge device, and the single-tube centrifugation reaction method according to the embodiments of the present invention, rapid and convenient biochemical analysis of a small number of samples can be performed.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0020]
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0021] Embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the related drawings. However, although these embodiments can be implemented in various forms, these are not the only forms for implementing or using specific embodiments of the present invention, and thus should not be construed as limiting the above embodiments. The embodiments include features of a plurality of specific embodiments, as well as the steps and their order of the methods for constructing and operating these specific embodiments. However, other specific embodiments can also be used to achieve equivalent or equal functions and the order of steps. On the contrary, by providing these embodiments, this specification can be thoroughly and completely disclosed, and the gist of the present invention can be fully and completely represented to those skilled in the technical field to which the present invention pertains. Like reference numerals in the figures refer to like elements. In the following description, known functions or structures will not be described in detail, and unnecessary details in the embodiments will not be described.
[0022] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention pertains. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will prevail.
[0023] In a situation that does not conflict with the context of the text, the singular nouns used in this specification include the plural forms of the nouns, and the plural nouns used also include the singular forms of the nouns. In addition, in this specification and the claims, expressions such as "at least one" and "one or more" have the same meaning, and both represent that they include 1, 2, 3, or more.
[0024] The term "consisting essentially of" is used to define a composition, method or apparatus, which includes materials, steps, features, components or elements other than those specifically recited, provided that these additional materials, steps, features, components or elements do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. The term "consisting essentially of" lies in an intermediate area between "comprising" and "consisting of".
[0025] The numerical ranges and parameters used to define the relatively broad scope of the present invention are all approximate values, but here the relevant numerical values in specific examples are shown as accurately as possible. However, any numerical value inherently contains a standard deviation due to the individual measurement method. Here, "about" usually means that the actual value is within plus or minus 10%, 5%, 1% or 0.5% of a specific numerical value or range. Alternatively, the term "about" means that the actual value is within the acceptable standard error of the average value, which is determined by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Except in examples or unless otherwise clearly stated, all ranges, quantities, numerical values and percentages (such as those used to describe the volume of materials, the length of time, temperature, operating conditions, quantity ratios and other similar things) used in the text should be understood to be modified by "about". Therefore, unless otherwise stated to the contrary, the numerical values and parameters disclosed in this specification and the claims are all approximate values and can vary according to requirements. At least these numerical values and parameters should be understood to be the values obtained by directly using the indicated number of significant digits and the general rounding method. Here, a numerical range is represented from one endpoint to another endpoint or between two endpoints. Unless otherwise explained, all numerical ranges described here include the endpoints.
[0026] Hereinafter, the centrifuge tube, single-tube centrifuge device, and single-tube centrifugation reaction method of the present invention will be described with specific examples.
[0027] First, please refer to FIGS. 1 to 6. FIG. 1 is an exploded schematic view of the centrifuge tube 1 based on an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a side schematic view of the centrifuge tube 1 based on an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a three-dimensional schematic view of the centrifuge tube 1 based on an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic view of the drain port 1034 of the centrifuge tube 1 based on an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a partially enlarged schematic view of the portion where the joining part 1031 of the centrifuge tube 1 and the cap 102 are joined based on an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic view of the first narrow opening 1035 of the inner tube 103 in the centrifuge tube 1 based on an embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] The centrifuge tube 1 of the embodiment of the present invention can include an outer tube 101, a cap 102, and an inner tube 103. The cap 102 can be fitted to the outer portion of the opening of the outer tube 101 (for example, fixed and fitted by a thread) to close the outer tube 101. The inner tube 103 is provided in the accommodation space formed by the outer tube 101. The inner tube 103 can include a joining part 1031, a reaction chamber 1032, a first check valve 1033, and a drain port 1034. The joining part 1031 can be fitted inside the opening of the outer tube 101. The first check valve 1033 can exemplarily include a steel ball 1033a and a spring 1033b. In the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the cap 102 can include a protrusion 1021 at a position corresponding to the joining part 1031. When the cap 102 is fitted to the outer tube 101 (for example, fixed and fitted by a thread), the joining part 1031 can be further firmly pressed, and the position of the inner tube 103 can be made more stable.
[0029] In the following embodiments, the direction from the tube opening to the bottom of the centrifuge tube 1, the outer tube 101 or the inner tube 103 is the Z-axis, and the line connecting the central positions of the planes perpendicular to the Z-axis in the inner tube and the outer tube is its axis (for example, the ZZ' connection line). When the inner tube 103 is fitted inside the opening of the outer tube 101 via the joint component 1031, the inner tube 103 is fixed in the accommodation space in the outer tube 101 so as to have the same axis as the outer tube 102. Therefore, when the centrifuge tube 1 rotates and centrifuges, it can be stably held. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the joint component 1031 of the inner tube 103 can be fitted outside the outer tube 101, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the inner tube 103 can be fixed in the outer tube 101 in any suitable manner.
[0030] As shown in FIG. 4, the centrifuge tube 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a pair of drain ports 1034 provided symmetrically with respect to the axis, and a first check valve 1033 is provided therein. The first check valve 1033 includes a steel ball 1033a and a spring 1033b. When the centrifuge tube 1 rotates and centrifuges, the pair of drain ports 1034 provided symmetrically with respect to the axis can balance the centrifuge tube 1 and it will not shake. When it is stopped, the steel ball 1033a in the first check valve 1033 in the drain port 1034 closes the opening communicating with the reaction chamber 1032 by the pushing force of the spring 1033b. When the rotation speed increases and the centrifugal force reaches the threshold value, the centrifugal force received by the steel ball 1033a is greater than the pushing force of the spring 1033b, and the spring 1033b is compressed. Subsequently, the reaction chamber 1032 can be communicated with the drain port 1034, and the waste liquid in the reaction chamber 1032 can be discharged from the drain port 1034. When the centrifugal force is less than the threshold value, the steel ball 1033a returns by the pushing force of the spring 1033b, and subsequently closes the communication between the reaction chamber 1032 and the drain port 1034. The steel ball 1033a and the spring 1033b can have different arrangement methods, for example, the steel balls have different weights and the springs have different elastic forces, etc., which are applied to different requirements. In another embodiment, a filter, filter paper or semi-permeable membrane can be included in the portion where the reaction chamber 1032 communicates with the drain port 1034.
[0031] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the centrifuge tube 1 is used in combination with magnetic beads. In order to prevent the magnetic beads from flowing out from the drain port 1034 during centrifugation, it can be made not to pass through the above-mentioned filter, filter paper, etc. The top view shape of the reaction chamber 1032 can be circular or polygonal. When the top view shape of the reaction chamber is polygonal, the drain port 1034 can be provided at the symmetric vertex part of the polygon, and the liquid discharge effect can be improved during centrifugation. According to another embodiment of the present invention, a magnetic force generating device can generate a magnetic force at the axial part or the circumferential part of the centrifuge tube 1, fix the magnetic beads in the center of the centrifuge tube 1, and they will not be discharged during centrifugation.
[0032] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the drain port 1034 can be provided in different ways. For example, it can be four or six drain ports provided symmetrically with respect to the axis. In addition, the first check valve 1033 in the drain port 1034 is not limited to the form of a combination of a steel ball and a spring, and can be controlled to open and close by an electric control or a magnetic control method, and the waste liquid is removed by centrifugal force in the same way. According to the embodiment of the present invention, the first check valve 1033 can be provided at a position close to the axis of the inner tube 103 in the drain port 1034, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The first check valve 1033 can be provided at a position away from the axis of the inner tube 103 in the drain port 1034, or at any position where the check valve can be opened by centrifugal force, electric control or magnetic control, and then the waste liquid can be discharged continuously.
[0033] According to the embodiment of the present invention, a first narrow port 1035 can be provided between the reaction chamber 1032 and the tube port in the inner tube 103. The first narrow port 1035 is formed to incline from the inner wall of the reaction chamber 1032 toward the axis. When the centrifuge tube 1 rotates around the axis, the reaction mixture in the reaction chamber 1032 moves toward the inner wall of the reaction chamber 1032 in the direction away from the axis by centrifugal force. As the rotation speed increases, the centrifugal force increases, and the reaction mixture moves along the inner wall of the reaction chamber 1032 toward the tube port. To prevent the reaction mixture from overflowing from the tube port during the centrifugation process, a first narrow port 1035 is provided between the reaction chamber 1032 and the tube port in the inner tube 103, and this can be achieved thereby. The included angle between the first narrow port 1035 and the axis is 30 to 60 degrees, preferably 45 degrees. When centrifugation is performed and the reaction mixture moves along the inner wall of the reaction chamber 1032 toward the tube port, the first narrow port 1035 presenting a predetermined angle with the axis can maintain the reaction mixture in the reaction chamber 1032 so as not to overflow.
[0034] Subsequently, please refer to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a three-dimensional schematic view of the inner tube 103a according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the centrifuge tube 1 of the present invention includes an inner tube 103a. The centrifuge tube 1 in this embodiment is the same as the above embodiment except for arranging the inner tube 103a, and other parts are not described herein.
[0036] The reaction chamber 1032 of the inner tube 103a includes a first reaction space 1032a and a second reaction space 1032b, and the inner diameter of the second reaction space 1032b is larger than that of the first reaction space 1032a. A second narrow mouth 1035a is included between the first reaction space 1032a and the second reaction space 1032b. The included angle between the second narrow mouth 1035a and the Z-axis may be from 30 to 60 degrees, preferably from 30 to 45 degrees, and more preferably 45 degrees. After the reaction mixture is added to the reaction chamber 1032, it falls into the second reaction space 1032b and reacts (when the reaction mixture is relatively large, it may also fill the first reaction space 1032a). After the reaction is completed, the centrifuge tube 1 can be centrifuged to remove the waste liquid. When centrifuging, the waste liquid moves towards the side wall portion of the second reaction space 1032b due to the centrifugal force. Along with the acceleration of the centrifugation speed, the waste liquid presents a donut shape at the side wall portion of the second reaction space 1032b. At the same time, the waste liquid also moves upwards towards the side wall of the first reaction space 1032a under the influence of the centrifugal force and is discharged into the first accommodation space between the outer tube 101 and the inner tube 103a from the first drain port 1034a of the first reaction space 1032a, and a predetermined volume of the reaction mixture can be retained in the second reaction space 1032b. By retaining some liquid, when magnetic beads or the like are included in the reaction mixture, suction can be facilitated. In this embodiment, since no valve is provided at the drain port 1034a, the waste liquid is directly discharged into the first accommodation space. In another embodiment, a check valve as described above can be provided at the drain port 1034a to control the discharge of the waste liquid, but the present invention is not limited thereto.
[0037] Please refer to FIG. 8 for other details. FIG. 8 is a three-dimensional schematic view of the inner tube 103a according to still another embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] The arrangement of the inner tube 103a in the centrifuge tube 1 of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the above embodiment, and only the different parts will be described here. In this embodiment, the side wall of the second reaction space 1032b also includes a second drain port 1034b, and a check valve (not shown) is provided at the second drain port 1034b. After the reaction of the reaction mixture is completed in the second reaction space 1032b, a part of the waste liquid can be discharged from the first drain port 1034a to the first storage space by centrifugation in the same manner as in the above embodiment. Preferably, when it is necessary to discharge all the liquid, the check valve provided at the second drain port 1034b can be opened by controlling the centrifugal force, and the waste liquid can be discharged from the second drain port 1034b to the first storage space. The above embodiment is only an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto. A plurality of drain ports can be provided, or different forms of valves can be provided, and a filter, filter paper or semi-permeable membrane can also be provided at the drain port. According to another embodiment of the present invention, by controlling the height of the second drain port 1034b in the second reaction space 1032b, the amount of liquid remaining in the second reaction space 1032b can also be controlled.
[0039] Next, please refer to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the closed (a) and open (b) states of the replenishment agent chamber 110 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Only one side is shown as a schematic diagram in FIG. 9, but the present invention is not limited thereto.
[0040] Based on the embodiments of the present invention, the centrifuge tube 1 of the present invention can further include a supplementary drug chamber 110, and the quantity of the supplementary drug chamber 110 can be determined by the quantity of the supplementary drug to be used. In the embodiment, one supplementary drug chamber 110 can be provided in the inner tube 103, and the supplementary drug chamber 110 can include a drug chamber 111, a temporary holding chamber 112, and a second check valve 113. The second check valve 113 controls the opening and closing between the drug chamber 111 and the temporary holding chamber 112, and the temporary holding chamber 112 communicates with the inner tube 103. The threshold for opening the second check valve 113 may be different from that of the first check valve 1033. For example, the threshold of the centrifugal force at which the second check valve 113 opens may be greater than that of the first check valve 1033. The initial state of the supplementary drug chamber 110 is as shown in the (a) part of FIG. 9. In this state, the second check valve 113 closes the opening, and the supplementary drug is stored in the drug chamber 111. After the reaction mixture passes through the inner tube 103 and is mixed in the reaction chamber 1032, it can be centrifuged at the first rotation speed. At this time, the first check valve 1033 opens, and the waste liquid of the reaction mixture is discharged from the drain port 1034. Subsequently, the rotation speed can be accelerated to a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed for centrifugation. When the threshold of the centrifugal force of the second check valve 113 is reached, the second check valve 113 opens, and the supplementary drug in the drug chamber 111 falls into the temporary holding chamber 112, as shown in the (b) part of FIG. 9. When the centrifugation stops, the supplementary drug falls into the inner tube 103 along with gravity, reaches the reaction chamber 1032, and reacts with the reaction mixture present in the reaction chamber 1032. In addition, the second check valve may be electrically controlled or magnetically controlled. In addition, when there is one supplementary drug chamber 110, a counterweight can be provided at a position symmetrical to the axis in a plane perpendicular to the Z axis of the centrifuge tube 1, and balance can be achieved during centrifugation. Preferably, the supplementary drug chamber 110 is provided between the first narrow mouth 1035 and the tube mouth. Based on another embodiment of the present invention, the supplementary drug chamber 110 can be provided between the first narrow mouth 1035 and the reaction chamber 1032.
[0041] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of supplementary agent chambers can be provided symmetrically with respect to the axis in a plane perpendicular to the Z-axis of the centrifuge tube 1. For example, a first supplementary agent chamber and a second supplementary agent chamber can be provided. The structures of the first supplementary agent chamber and the second supplementary agent chamber are similar to the structure of the above-mentioned supplementary agent chamber, and each includes a first and a second agent chamber, a first and a second temporary holding chambers, and each includes a third check valve and a fourth check valve. The threshold values of the centrifugal force at which the third check valve and the fourth check valve of the first supplementary agent chamber and the second supplementary agent chamber open are different. When actually operating, after the reaction mixture is mixed in the reaction chamber, it can be centrifuged at the first rotation speed. At this time, the first check valve 1033 opens, and the waste liquid of the reaction mixture is discharged from the drain port 1034. At this time, the rotation speed can be accelerated to a third rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed for centrifugation. When the threshold value of the centrifugal force of the third check valve is reached, the third check valve opens, and the first supplementary agent in the first agent chamber falls into the first temporary holding chamber. When the centrifugation stops, the first supplementary agent falls into the inner tube 103 due to gravity and then reaches the reaction chamber 1032 to react with the reaction mixture present in the reaction chamber 1032. Subsequently, after the mixing reaction of the reaction mixture and the first supplementary agent is completed, centrifugation is further performed at the first rotation speed. At this time, the first check valve 1033 opens, and the waste liquid of the reaction mixture is discharged from the drain port 1034. Subsequently, the rotation speed can be accelerated to a fourth rotation speed greater than the third rotation speed for centrifugation. When the threshold value of the centrifugal force of the fourth check valve is reached, the fourth check valve opens, and the second supplementary agent in the second agent chamber falls into the second temporary holding chamber. When the centrifugation stops, the second supplementary agent falls into the inner tube 103 due to gravity, enters the reaction chamber 1032, and reacts with the reaction mixture present in the reaction chamber 1032. The above embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto. If necessary, the third and fourth check valves in the first and second supplementary agent chambers can have the same or different threshold values of the centrifugal force at which they open.
[0042] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the refill chambers can be combined in the centrifuge tube 1 so as to overlap in layers. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the refill chambers can be provided in the centrifuge tube 1 so as to overlap. Specifically, the refill chamber of this embodiment can have a tube diameter the same as or similar to that of the inner tube 103 of the centrifuge tube 1, and a drug chamber, a check valve, and a temporary holding chamber structure in the refill chamber 110 as described above are provided therein, and necessary drugs can be added. It further has a fitting part (not shown) that can overlap. At the same time, the threshold value of the check valve in the refill chamber is different from the threshold value of the first check valve 1033 in the centrifuge tube 1. Therefore, the necessary drugs can be combined with the centrifuge tube 1 so as to overlap, and the effect of adding drugs can be achieved. In addition, when a plurality of refill chambers overlap, the threshold values of the check valves therebetween are different from each other.
[0043] In this embodiment, the refill chambers are provided symmetrically with respect to the axis of the centrifuge tube 1, and different refill drugs are provided so as to be stacked on top of each other, avoiding the problem that it is difficult to provide a plurality of refill drugs due to insufficient space in the same plane. Furthermore, for a single refill drug, concentrated liquid and diluent with equal mass can be arranged in a specific ratio in the symmetrical refill chambers. When the check valve opens and the refill drug flows into the temporary holding chamber, the balance of the centrifuge tube 1 can still be maintained.
[0044] Please refer to FIGS. 11 to 13. FIG. 11 is a perspective schematic view of a single-tube centrifuge 2 according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a single-tube centrifuge 2 according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic view of the bottom shape of the centrifuge tube 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] Based on another object of the present invention, a single-tube centrifuge device 2 is provided, and the single-tube centrifuge device 2 includes a centrifuge 201 and a fixing component 202 used for fixing the centrifuge tube 1. The centrifuge 201 can include a motor 203 for providing a centrifugal force. When in use, the centrifuge tube 1 is fixed to the centrifuge 201 by the fixing component 202, and different centrifugal forces are provided by providing different rotational speeds.
[0046] In an embodiment, the fixing component 202 can be provided only at the bottom part of the outer tube 101 in the centrifuge tube 1, or the fixing component 202 can also be provided on the cap 102 of the centrifuge tube 1 and the lid 201a of the centrifuge 201. The fixing component 202 can fix the centrifuge tube 1 in any manner. For example, it can clamp from the outside of the centrifuge tube 1, or as shown in FIG. 13, a recess is provided at the bottom of the centrifuge tube 1 to assist in fixing the centrifuge tube 1 to the fixing component 202. The recess provided at the bottom of the centrifuge tube 1 can be in a shape of a straight line, a cross, a square, a polygon, or any suitable shape that can be stably fixed to the centrifuge 201. In this embodiment, since the rotation of the centrifuge tube 1 is powered by the motor 203, the fixing component 202 connected to the bottom of the centrifuge tube 1 is stably fixed to the centrifuge 201. In contrast, the fixing component 202 on the lid 201a of the centrifuge 201 can have a corresponding fixing structure on the cap 102 of the centrifuge tube 1, and is further stably fixed in the single-tube centrifuge device 2 without affecting the centrifugation of the centrifuge tube 1. In another embodiment, the centrifuge can accommodate a plurality of (i.e., more than one) centrifuge tubes 1 at the same time. Each centrifuge tube 1 is independently fixed to the centrifuge and can be centrifuged independently, and there is no need to balance the weights.
[0047] Based on the embodiments of the present invention, a single-tube centrifugation system for continuous samples can be provided. This includes a platform, a single-tube centrifuge provided on the platform, a rail used to place and move the platform, an identification unit provided on the rail, and a control module for controlling the movement of the platform and further controlling the centrifugation of the single-tube centrifuge. The single-tube centrifuge is a single-tube centrifuge as described in the above embodiments, and this is applied to the centrifuge tube described in the above embodiments.
[0048] Based on the embodiments of the present invention, when a user receives a sample and uses a single-tube centrifugation system for continuous samples, the sample and reagents are injected into a centrifuge tube, and an identification label is further attached and identified by the identification unit. The user places the centrifuge tube on the single-tube centrifuge on the platform on the rail, and the control module moves the platform to perform processes such as centrifugation and reagent addition at different positions. Further, by the identification unit identifying the identification label of the centrifuge tube, the analysis progress is confirmed. The identification label may be a barcode, a two-dimensional code, or any identifiable label. Based on another embodiment of the present invention, since necessary supplementary reagent chambers can be stacked, there is no need for equipment to add reagents additionally. Preferably, the system can further include equipment such as heating, temperature reduction, and vibration to combine the requirements of various experiments. Therefore, with a plurality of platforms on the rail and the single-tube centrifuges thereon, the movement of the sample on the rail can be controlled, different reaction processes can be performed at different positions, and it is not necessary to wait for the sample to reach a certain number before starting the analysis. Under the control of an automated control system, processes such as reagent addition can also be realized by only controlling various rotation speeds by the supplementary reagent chamber, and various reagents can be added, saving a large amount of labor and materials.
[0049] Based on another object of the present invention, a single-tube centrifugal reaction method is provided, which includes the following steps as shown in FIG. 14. Step S1: Add the reaction mixture to a centrifuge tube for reaction. When the reaction mixture is added to the inner tube 103, it falls into the reaction chamber 1032 through the first narrow opening 1035 and reacts. Step S2: Place the centrifuge tube 1 in the single-tube centrifuge 2 and fix the centrifuge tube 1 with the fixing part 202. Step S3: Centrifuge by the centrifuge 201 to carry out reaction or removal of waste liquid. Based on the difference in the experimental method, it can further include the step of discharging the chemical in the replenishment chemical chamber 110, and by changing the rotation speed of the centrifuge 201, the purpose of discharging the chemical is achieved.
[0050] The above description is only an example and not a limitation. Any equivalent modifications or changes made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention should be included within the scope defined by the claims.
Explanation of Reference Numerals
[0051] 1 Centrifuge tube 101 Outer tube 102 Cap 1021 Protrusion 103, 103a Inner tube 1031 Joint part 1032 Reaction chamber 1032a First reaction space 1032b Second reaction space 1033 First check valve 1033a Steel ball 1033b Spring 1034 Drain port 1034a First drain port 1034b Second drain port 1035 First narrow opening 1035a Second narrow opening 110 Replenishment chemical chamber 111 Chemical chamber 112 Temporary holding chamber 113 Second check valve 2 Single-tube centrifuge 201 Centrifuge 201a Cover 202 Fixed Parts 203 Motor Steps S1 to S3
Claims
1. An outer tube including a first accommodation space, A cap fitted outside the outer tube to seal the outer tube, An inner tube located in the first accommodation space, and The inner tube has An opening used to add a reactant into the inner tube, A joint component, wherein the inner tube is fitted into the outer tube through the joint component, the inner tube of the centrifuge tube is coaxially aligned with the outer tube, the direction from the tube opening to the bottom of the outer tube is the Z-axis, and the axis is a line connecting the central positions of the inner tube and the outer tube in a plane perpendicular to the Z-axis, A reaction chamber communicating with the opening, accommodating and reacting the reaction mixture added from the opening, and further including a first narrow neck between the opening and the reaction chamber, The reaction chamber is communicated with the first accommodation space, and includes a first drain port symmetrically provided in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis. A centrifuge tube, characterized in that.
2. Further including a first check valve provided at the first drain port, controlling the opening and closing of the first check valve by a first centrifugal force, and when open, discharging the waste liquid in the reaction chamber from the reaction chamber to the first accommodation space through the first drain port. The centrifuge tube according to claim 1.
3. The reaction chamber includes a first reaction space and a second reaction space, the first reaction space communicates with the opening, further includes the first narrow neck between the first reaction space and the opening, includes a second narrow neck between the first reaction space and the second reaction space, the first drain port is located in the first reaction space, and the second reaction space includes a second drain port. The centrifuge tube according to claim 1.
4. Further comprising a first check valve provided at the second drain port, controlling the opening and closing of the first check valve by a first centrifugal force, and when open, discharging the waste liquid in the reaction chamber from the reaction chamber to the first storage space through the second drain port. The centrifuge tube according to claim 3.
5. Further comprising a replenishing agent chamber, the replenishing agent chamber including a reagent chamber, a temporary holding chamber, and a second check valve, and the temporary holding chamber communicating with the reaction chamber. The centrifuge tube according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
6. The second check valve is a mechanical valve, an electrically controlled valve, or a magnetically controlled valve. The centrifuge tube according to claim 5.
7. Further comprising a combination of a plurality of check valves and drain ports provided symmetrically with respect to the axis. The centrifuge tube according to claim 6.
8. The first narrow mouth and the Z-axis form an included angle of 30 to 60 degrees. The centrifuge tube according to claim 1.
9. The second narrow mouth and the Z-axis form an included angle of 30 to 45 degrees. The centrifuge tube according to claim 3 or 4.
10. Including a centrifuge and a fixing component, the fixing component fixing the centrifuge tube according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and the centrifuge having the same axis as the centrifuge tube. Single-tube centrifuge device.
11. Adding a reaction mixture to the centrifuge tube according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and reacting. Attach the centrifuge tube to the single-tube centrifuge device according to claim 10, and fix the centrifuge tube with the fixing component. Centrifuge the centrifuge tube to perform a reaction or remove waste liquid. The method is characterized by including the above steps. Single-tube centrifugation reaction method.
12. A platform, The single-tube centrifuge device according to claim 10 provided on the platform, A rail used to place and move the platform, An identification unit provided on the rail, A control module that controls the movement of the platform and further controls the centrifugation of the single-tube centrifuge device. The continuous sample single-tube centrifuge system is characterized by including the above components. Continuous sample single-tube centrifuge system.
13. The single-tube centrifuge device includes an identification label, and the identification unit identifies the identification label. The continuous sample single-tube centrifuge system according to claim 12.
Citation Information
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