fluid mixer

Abstract

To efficiently mix the first and second fluids. To facilitate maintenance. [Solution] The fluid mixer 30 includes a flow path forming body. The flow path forming body includes a main body 32 having a first fluid introduction section 41, a confluence return section 43, and a mixing section 44, and an introduction-side closing member 34B having a second fluid introduction flow path 42, the mixing section 44 including a mixed fluid outlet section 46a. The confluence return section 43 allows the first fluid introduced through the first fluid introduction section 41 to return together with the second fluid and flow to the mixed fluid outlet section 46a. The second fluid introduction flow path 42 introduces the second fluid into the confluence return section 43 along a second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction and combines it with the first fluid. The main body 32 has a return surface with a recess that defines the confluence return section 43. The introduction-side closing member 34B includes a sealing member 52 that seals the confluence return section 43, and an introduction hole constituting the second fluid introduction flow path is formed in the sealing member 52.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid mixer for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid and mixing the two.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a means for efficiently mixing a first fluid and a second fluid that are different from each other, a mixer in which a mixing flow path is formed is known. The mixing flow path is formed so that the second fluid joins the first fluid and the two fluids can be mixed with each other, thereby enabling the first and second fluids to be efficiently mixed.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a reactor for mixing a first raw material liquid and a second raw material liquid to cause a chemical reaction between them. The reactor includes a plurality of reaction flow path substrates laminated on each other, and a plurality of first reaction grooves, a plurality of second reaction grooves, and a plurality of through holes are formed in each of the plurality of reaction flow path substrates. The plurality of first reaction grooves are formed on one surface (front surface) of each reaction flow path substrate, and the first raw material liquid is allowed to flow through each first reaction groove. The plurality of second reaction grooves are formed on the other surface (back surface) of each reaction flow path substrate, and the second raw material liquid is allowed to flow through each second reaction groove. The plurality of through holes penetrate each reaction flow path substrate in the plate thickness direction so as to communicate the middle portion of the first reaction groove with the end of the second reaction groove, and allow the second raw material fluid to join the first raw material fluid flowing through the first reaction groove from the second reaction groove through the through hole. The first and second raw material fluids thus joined flow in the first reaction groove in a region downstream of the through hole, and are thereby mixed with each other to cause a chemical reaction.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0005] In the aforementioned fluid mixer, the first and second reaction grooves must be positioned at different locations relative to each other in the thickness direction of the reaction channel substrate, and the two reaction grooves must be parallel to each other. This increases the overall dimensions of the fluid mixer in that thickness direction. Furthermore, a through hole is provided at the end of the second reaction groove, and the second fluid that abuts this end flows into the through hole in a direction perpendicular to the first and second reaction grooves, allowing it to merge with the first fluid. As a result, the flow and channel structure of the second fluid until it merges with the first fluid is complex. In particular, the large change in the direction of the second fluid at the end of the second reaction groove creates significant flow resistance, making it prone to clogging, and maintenance is not easy when clogging occurs.

[0006] In view of these circumstances, the present invention aims to provide a fluid mixer that can efficiently mix a first fluid and a second fluid with a simple and compact structure. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] Provided is a fluid mixer for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid while a first fluid is flowing through it, thereby mixing the first fluid and the second fluid with each other. The fluid mixer comprises a flow path forming body having at least one mixing flow path formed therein. The at least one mixing flow path includes a main flow path and a second fluid introduction flow path. The main flow path includes a first fluid introduction section, a confluence return section, and a mixing section, the mixing section including a mixed fluid outlet section. The first fluid introduction section is connected to the confluence return section to allow the first fluid to be introduced into the confluence return section along a first introduction direction. The confluence return section allows the first fluid introduced into the confluence return section through the first fluid introduction section to flow back together with the second fluid introduced into the confluence return section through the second fluid introduction flow path to the mixed fluid outlet section. The mixing section is formed to allow the first fluid and the second fluid introduced into the confluence return section to flow as a mixed fluid while being mixed with each other. The mixed fluid outlet section is connected to the confluence and return section such that the first fluid and the second fluid flow out of the confluence and return section in an outlet direction opposite to the first introduction direction. The second fluid introduction channel has a channel length shorter than the respective channel lengths of the first fluid introduction section and the mixed fluid outlet section, and is connected to the confluence and return section such that the second fluid is introduced to the confluence and return section along a second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction and merged with the first fluid.

[0008] Thus, since the second fluid introduction channel introduces the second fluid into the confluence and reversal section, which is the part in the main channel where the first fluid reverses direction, it does not need to have a large channel length or a complex shape. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the flow resistance of the second fluid in the second fluid introduction channel and improve the mixing efficiency. Furthermore, since the second fluid introduction channel introduces the second fluid in a second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction of the first fluid introduction section, it is possible to arrange the first fluid introduction section and the second fluid introduction channel on substantially the same plane, which enables the stream forming body to be made more compact.

[0009] In this context, "introducing the second fluid to the confluence and return section along a second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction" does not mean that the first introduction direction and the second introduction direction are completely 180° apart. Rather, it is sufficient that there is a difference (preferably an angle of 135° or more) between the first and second introduction directions to the extent that the second fluid can be introduced to the confluence and return section from the side opposite to the first fluid introduction section.

[0010] Preferably, the second fluid introduction channel is connected to the confluence and return section such that the first fluid and the second fluid introduced from the first fluid introduction section collide with each other. This makes it possible to cause the first and second fluids to collide with each other at a high relative velocity (velocities in opposite directions), thereby enabling the first and second fluids to flow through the mixing section while being mixed with each other with high efficiency.

[0011] Specifically, it is preferable that at least a portion (preferably all) of the outlet of the second fluid introduction channel overlaps with the outlet of the first fluid introduction section when viewed in the direction along the second introduction direction. This ensures that the second fluid introduced to the confluence and return section through the second fluid introduction channel collides reliably with the first fluid introduced to the confluence and return section through the first fluid introduction section.

[0012] Preferably, the second fluid introduction channel has a smaller cross-sectional area than the cross-sectional areas of the first fluid introduction section and the mixed fluid outlet section. This makes it possible to introduce the second fluid at a high speed to the confluence and return section, thereby further increasing the relative velocity of the first and second fluids colliding with each other. Moreover, as described above, the second fluid introduction channel only needs to introduce the second fluid to the confluence and return section, which is the return section of the main flow channel, and does not require a large channel length. Therefore, even if the cross-sectional area of ​​the second fluid introduction channel is small, the resulting pressure loss is small and the risk of blockage is low. Furthermore, even if such blockage occurs, maintenance of the second fluid introduction channel is easy. In this way, the fluid mixer makes it possible to efficiently mix the first fluid and the second fluid while suppressing pressure loss and the risk of blockage.

[0013] Preferably, the first introduction direction, the discharge direction, and the second introduction direction are parallel to a common mixing flow path surface. This makes it possible to introduce the first fluid and discharge the mixed fluid in a compact structure.

[0014] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the mixing section is formed to allow the mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid to proceed while the mixed fluid is reciprocated along the mixing channel surface. This makes it possible to ensure a compact structure along a common mixing channel surface and to secure a sufficient channel length (length of the mixing section) not only to merge the first and second fluids with each other but also to allow the mixing of the first and second fluids to proceed after the merging (for example, in the case of a reactor, to ensure sufficient time for the reaction between the first fluid and the second fluid to proceed).

[0015] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the at least one mixing channel further comprises a plurality of mixing channels, and that the plurality of mixing channels are arranged along an arrangement direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface. This allows the plurality of mixing channels to be arranged in a compact structure, thereby enabling more first and second fluids to be mixed within a limited space.

[0016] Preferably, the mixing section includes a plurality of first return sections arranged on one side of the reciprocating direction, which is the direction in which the mixed fluid reciprocates, and at least one second return section arranged on the other side of the reciprocating direction, wherein each of the plurality of first return sections and the at least one second return section is formed to cause the mixed fluid to fold back, and the at least one second return section is arranged together with the confluence return section along a return section arrangement direction perpendicular to the reciprocating direction, and the plurality of first return sections are arranged along the return section arrangement direction on the side opposite to the at least one second return section in the reciprocating direction. This makes it possible to realize the confluence of the first and second fluids and the subsequent reciprocating flow of the mixed fluid in a compact structure.

[0017] Preferably, the confluence and return section is formed to allow the first fluid and the second fluid to flow in a confluence and return direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface. Such a confluence and return section allows the first and second fluids to flow in a direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface, that is, in a direction perpendicular to the first introduction direction, and smoothly return to the mixed fluid outlet section.

[0018] Furthermore, if the mixing section includes a plurality of first return sections and at least one second return section, it is preferable that the at least one second return section is formed to allow the mixed fluid to flow in a second return direction parallel to the confluence return direction, and that each of the plurality of first return sections is formed to allow the mixed fluid to flow in a first return direction opposite to the confluence return direction and the second return direction, respectively. The confluence return section and the first and second return sections formed in this manner allow the mixed fluid to travel along the mixing flow path surface in a path that is similar in shape to a spiral.

[0019] The flow path forming body includes a main body portion on which at least a reciprocating flow path portion of the main flow path is formed, and an introduction-side closing member on which the second fluid introduction flow path is formed, wherein the reciprocating flow path portion is a portion that causes the mixed fluid to reciprocate between the confluence return portion and the at least one second return portion and the plurality of first return portions, the main body portion includes a return surface that defines each of the plurality of mixing flow paths, the confluence return portion and the at least one second return portion, and the introduction-side closing member is preferably detachably attached to the main body portion so as to close the return surface and establish the plurality of mixing flow paths. The introduction-side closing member establishes the plurality of mixing flow paths when attached to the main body portion, and when detached from the main body portion and opens the return surface, it closes the reciprocating flow path portion and the introduction flow path that connect to the return surface This allows for easy maintenance of both the second fluid introduction channel formed in the side closing member.

[0020] Herein, the "folding surface defining the confluence return portion and the at least one second return portion" may be a folding surface in which a recess is formed that defines at least a part of the confluence return portion and the second return portion, or a recess defining at least a part of the confluence return portion and the second return portion may be formed in the introduction-side closing member and the confluence return portion and the second return portion are defined by facing the recess.

[0021] In the former embodiment, a recess defining the confluence return portion is formed on the folded surface, and the introduction-side closing member includes a closing member body detachably connected to the main body, and a sealing member fixed to the closing member body, which seals the confluence return portion by elastically deforming as the closing member body is connected to the main body and making close contact with the folded surface around the recess, and it is preferable that a second fluid introduction hole is formed in the sealing member, which is connected to the recess and constitutes the second fluid introduction channel. In the latter embodiment, the introduction-side closing member includes a closing member body connected to the main body, and a sealing member on which the confluence return portion is formed, and it is preferable that the sealing member seals the confluence return portion between itself and the folded surface by elastically deforming as the closing member body is connected to the main body and making close contact with the folded surface, and that a second fluid introduction hole is formed in the closing member body, which is connected to the confluence return portion and constitutes the second fluid introduction channel. In both the former and the latter embodiments, the sealing member and the folded surface ensure that the confluence and folded portion is reliably sealed, while the second fluid is introduced into the confluence and folded portion through the second fluid introduction channel.

[0022] Furthermore, a fluid mixing system is provided for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid while the first fluid is flowing, thereby mixing the first fluid and the second fluid with each other. The fluid mixing system comprises a fluid mixer, a first fluid supply unit that supplies the first fluid to the first fluid inlet of the fluid mixer, and a second fluid supply unit that supplies the second fluid to the second fluid inlet passage of the fluid mixer.

[0023] Also provided is a fluid mixing method for introducing a second fluid into the first fluid while flowing the first fluid to mix the first fluid and the second fluid with each other. The fluid mixing method includes preparing the fluid mixer, introducing the first fluid into the confluence turning-back portion along the first introduction direction through the first fluid introduction portion, introducing the second fluid into the confluence turning-back portion along the second introduction direction through the second fluid introduction flow path to cause the second fluid to merge with the first fluid, and discharging the first fluid and the second fluid merged with the first fluid as the mixed fluid from the confluence turning-back portion through the mixed fluid discharge portion.

Advantages of the Invention

[0024] As described above, there are provided a fluid mixer capable of efficiently mixing a first fluid and a second fluid with a simple and compact structure, a fluid mixing system using the same, and a fluid mixing method.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] [Figure 1] It is a cross-sectional front view of a fluid mixer according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a perspective view of a fluid mixer according to a second embodiment of the present invention as viewed from below. [Figure 3] It is a front view showing a first mixing flow path and a part of a second mixing flow path formed in the fluid mixer shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] It is a cross-sectional plan view showing a second fluid introduction portion which is a portion for introducing the second fluid into the first fluid in the fluid mixer shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 5] It is a view showing a surface obtained by rotating a surface along line V-V in FIG. 4 by 90°. [Figure 6] It is a cross-sectional view showing a surface obtained by rotating a surface along line VI-VI in FIG. 4 by 90°. [Figure 7] It is a cross-sectional side view showing an example of a plurality of laminated plates constituting the main body portion. [Figure 8]This is a cross-sectional plan view showing a first modified example of the second fluid introduction portion. [Figure 9] This is a side view showing the outer surface of the gasket shown in Figure 8, rotated 90° from the plane along the line IX-IX in Figure 8. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional plan view showing a second modified example of the second fluid introduction portion. [Figure 11] This is a side view showing the outer surface of the gasket shown in Figure 10, rotated 90° along the line XI-XI in Figure 10. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0027] Figure 1 shows a fluid mixing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The fluid mixing system is for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid while the first fluid is flowing, and mixing the first fluid and the second fluid together. The specific applications of the system are not limited. The system is preferably used, for example, as a reaction system for causing a chemical reaction between the first fluid and the second fluid, or as a release system for releasing a specific substance contained in the first fluid into the second fluid. The first fluid and the second fluid may each be either a liquid or a gas, but it is preferable that at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid is a liquid, and it is even more preferable that both the first fluid and the second fluid are liquids.

[0028] The fluid mixing system shown in Figure 1 comprises a first fluid supply unit 10, a second fluid supply unit 20, and a fluid mixer 30.

[0029] The first fluid supply unit 10 supplies the first fluid to the fluid mixer 30. The first fluid supply unit 10 includes, for example, a first fluid container and a first fluid pump. The first fluid container holds the first fluid, and the first fluid pump pumps the first fluid contained in the first fluid container to the fluid mixer 30 through piping.

[0030] The second fluid supply unit 20 supplies the second fluid to the fluid mixer 30. The second fluid supply unit 20 includes, for example, a second fluid container and a second fluid pump. The second fluid container holds the second fluid, and the second fluid pump pumps the second fluid contained in the second fluid container to the fluid mixer 30 through piping.

[0031] The fluid mixer 30 includes a flow channel forming body, and at least one mixing channel is formed in the flow channel forming body. In this embodiment, the at least one mixing channel includes a plurality of mixing channels 40. Each of the plurality of mixing channels 40 is unfolded along the mixing channel surface. The mixing channel surface is a vertical surface, i.e., a surface parallel to the plane of paper in Figure 1, in the example shown in Figure 1. The plurality of mixing channels 40 are arranged in an arrangement direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface, which corresponds to the depth direction in Figure 1. Figure 1 is a front view showing a cross-section (vertical cross-section) of one of the plurality of mixing channels 40.

[0032] The mixing channel 40 includes a main channel and a second fluid introduction channel 42. The main channel includes a first fluid introduction section 41, a confluence and return section 43, and a mixing section 44, the mixing section 44 including a mixed fluid outlet section 46a.

[0033] The first fluid introduction section 41 is connected to the confluence return section 43 so as to allow the first fluid to be introduced into the confluence return section 43 along the first introduction direction. In the example shown in Figure 1, the first introduction direction is a direction that slopes slightly upward from left to right.

[0034] The confluence and return section 43 is formed to allow the first fluid introduced into the confluence and return section 43 through the first fluid introduction section 41 to return together with the second fluid introduced into the confluence and return section 43 through the second fluid introduction channel 42 and flow to the mixed fluid outlet section 46a.

[0035] The mixing section 44 is formed to allow the first fluid and the second fluid introduced into the confluence return section 43 to flow as a mixed fluid while being mixed with each other. The mixing section 44 includes a reciprocating flow path section 46 including the mixed fluid outlet section 46a, a plurality of first return sections 45A, and second return sections 45B.

[0036] The mixed fluid outlet section 46a is connected to the confluence return section 43 such that the first fluid and the second fluid flow out of the confluence return section 43 in an outlet direction opposite to the first inlet direction. The "outlet direction opposite to the first inlet direction" here does not necessarily mean a direction that is completely 180° different from the first inlet direction, but rather a direction that is opposite to the first inlet direction to the extent that the direction of the first fluid is recognized to be reversed at the confluence return section 43. The inlet direction along the mixed fluid outlet section 46a shown in Figure 1 is in a direction away from the confluence return section 43 (to the left in Figure 1) and slightly diagonally upward.

[0037] Therefore, the first introduction direction and the exit direction in this embodiment are parallel to the common mixing flow channel surface (vertical surface in Figure 1), thereby enabling both the introduction of the first fluid and the exit of the mixed fluid to be carried out with a compact structure.

[0038] The second fluid introduction channel 42 has a channel length shorter than the respective channel lengths of the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet section 46a in the main channel. The second fluid introduction channel 42 is connected to the confluence return section 43 so as to introduce the second fluid supplied from the second fluid supply section 20 to the confluence return section 43 along the second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction, and to merge it with the first fluid introduced from the first fluid introduction section.

[0039] The phrase "introducing the second fluid to the confluence and return section along the second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction" does not mean that the first and second introduction directions must be exactly 180° apart. Rather, it is sufficient that there is a difference (preferably an angle of 135° or more) between the first and second introduction directions to the extent that the second fluid is introduced to the confluence and return section 43 from the side opposite to the first fluid introduction section 41 (the left side in Figure 1). In the example shown in Figure 1, the second introduction direction is the horizontal direction opposite to the first introduction direction (horizontal left direction in Figure 1), and the angle between the second introduction direction and the first introduction direction is an obtuse angle close to 180°.

[0040] In this embodiment, the second fluid introduction channel 42 is connected to the confluence and return section 43 such that the first fluid and the second fluid introduced from the first fluid introduction section 41 collide with each other. Specifically, when viewed in the direction along the second introduction direction (leftward in Figure 1), at least a portion (preferably all) of the outlet of the second fluid introduction channel 42 (left end opening in Figure 1) overlaps with the outlet of the first fluid introduction section 41 (right end opening in Figure 1), thereby allowing the first fluid introduced into the confluence and return section 43 through the second fluid introduction channel 42 to collide with each other. This ensures that the second fluid collides reliably with the first fluid introduced into the confluence and return section 43 through the first fluid introduction section 41.

[0041] Furthermore, the second fluid introduction channel 42 in this embodiment has a smaller cross-sectional area than the cross-sectional areas of the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet section 46a, respectively, enabling the second fluid to be introduced into the confluence return section 43 at a relatively high speed.

[0042] The mixing section 44 is formed to allow the mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid to proceed while the mixed fluid is reciprocated along the mixing channel surface. Specifically, the mixing section 44 includes a plurality of first return sections 45A, a second return section 45B, and a reciprocating channel section 46.

[0043] The plurality of first return sections 45A, in the example shown in Figure 1, consist of two first return sections 45A, and are located on one side of the reciprocating direction (the left side in Figure 1). The reciprocating direction is the direction in which the mixed fluid reciprocates, and in Figure 1, it is the left-right direction. The second return section 45B, together with the confluence return section 43, is located on the other side of the reciprocating direction (the right side in Figure 1). Each of the first and second return sections 45A and 45B, similar to the confluence return section 43, is formed to cause the mixed fluid to fold back in the reciprocating direction, that is, to reverse the direction of the flow of the mixed fluid.

[0044] The second return section 45B is arranged together with the confluence return section 43 along the direction of the return section arrangement, and the plurality of first return sections 45A are arranged together with the confluence return section 43 along the direction of the return section arrangement on the side opposite to the second return section 45B in the reciprocating direction (the right side in Figure 1). The direction of the return section arrangement is perpendicular to the reciprocating direction and parallel to the mixing flow path surface, which is the vertical direction in Figure 1.

[0045] The plurality of first folded portions 45A may be three or more first folded portions 45A arranged in the direction of the folded portion arrangement. Similarly, the second folded portion 45B may be replaced with a plurality of second folded portions 45B arranged together with the merging folded portion 43 in the direction of the folded portion arrangement. In other words, the number of reciprocations in the mixing portion 44 may be increased.

[0046] The reciprocating flow path section 46 is the part that causes the mixed fluid to reciprocate between the confluence return section 43 and the second return section 45B and the plurality of first return sections. The reciprocating flow path section 46 shown in Figure 1 includes the mixed fluid outlet section 46a, the first flow path section 46b, the second flow path section 46c, and the third flow path section 46d. The mixed fluid outlet section 46a extends in the outlet direction and connects the confluence return section 43 and the lowest first return section 45A among the plurality of first return sections 45A. The lowest first return section 45A is located slightly higher than the confluence return section 43. The first to third flow path sections 46b to 46d form a reciprocating flow path that causes the mixed fluid to reciprocate in the reciprocating direction. The reciprocating flow path expands upward while reciprocating in the reciprocating direction, so that the mixed fluid proceeds sequentially from the lowest first return section 45A, through the second return section 45B and the uppermost first return section 45A among the plurality of first return sections 45A, to the mixed fluid discharge flow path 48. The mixed fluid outlet section 46a and the first to third flow path sections 46b to 46d are preferably linear, which makes it possible to suppress flow resistance.

[0047] The flow path forming body according to this embodiment includes a main body 32, a first closing member 34A, and a second closing member 34B.

[0048] The main body portion 32 defines the first fluid introduction portion 41, the confluence and return portion 43, and the mixing portion 44 of each of the plurality of mixing channels 40. A joining portion 44 is formed. The main body portion 32 has two sides in the reciprocating direction, namely a first side 32a and a second side 32b. On the first side 32a, recesses defining the plurality of first folded portions 45A are open outward (to the left in Figure 1), and on the second side 32b, recesses defining the merging folded portion 43 and the second folded portion 45B are open outward (to the right in Figure 1). The main body portion 32 may be composed of a single block-shaped member, or it may be composed of a plurality of members, for example, a plurality of laminated plates stacked on top of each other in the direction of arrangement.

[0049] The first closing member 34A is detachably attached to the first side surface 32a of the main body 32 so as to close the recess that defines the plurality of first folded portions 45A, thereby defining the plurality of first folded portions 45A together with the main body 32. The first closing member 34A has a plurality of first fluid supply ports 47 formed therein, and these first fluid supply ports 47 penetrate the first closing member 34A in a direction approximating the first introduction direction (left-right direction in Figure 1) and connect to the inlet of the first fluid introduction section 41. The first fluid supply section 10 is connected to these first fluid supply ports 47 via piping (not shown).

[0050] Similarly, the second closing member 34B is detachably attached to the second side surface 32b of the main body 32 so as to close, i.e., block the recesses that define the confluence return portion 43 and the second return portion 45B, respectively, thereby defining the confluence return portion 43 and the second return portion 45B together with the main body 32. That is, the second side surface 32b corresponds to the return surface that defines the confluence return portion 43 and the second return portion 45B, and the second closing member 34B corresponds to an introduction-side closing member that is detachably attached to the main body 32 so as to close the recesses that cover the return surface and establish the plurality of mixing channels 40.

[0051] The second closing member 34B has a second fluid introduction channel 42 and a mixed fluid outlet 48 formed therein. The second fluid introduction channel 42 is formed to penetrate the second closing member 34B in the second introduction direction, and the second fluid supply unit 20 is connected to the second fluid introduction channel 42. The mixed fluid outlet 48 is formed to connect to the end of the mixing unit 44, and a mixed fluid recovery unit (not shown) is connected to the mixed fluid outlet 48.

[0052] Furthermore, the flow path forming body according to the present invention is not limited to the case in which the main body portion 32 and the first and second closing members 34A and 34B are separable from each other, as shown in Figure 1. The first closing member 34A may be formed integrally with the main body portion 32, or both the first and second closing members 34A and 34B may be formed integrally with the main body portion 32, for example, the entire body may be composed of a single block.

[0053] Next, the operation of the fluid mixing system will be explained.

[0054] The first fluid supply unit 10 supplies the first fluid to the first fluid supply port 47 of the fluid mixer 30. The first fluid introduction section 41 in the fluid mixer 30 guides the first fluid in the first introduction direction along the first fluid introduction section 41, enabling the first fluid to be introduced into the confluence return section 43 in the first introduction direction.

[0055] Meanwhile, the second fluid supply unit 20 supplies the second fluid to the second fluid introduction channel 42 of the fluid mixer 30. The second fluid introduction channel 42 allows the second fluid to be introduced in the second introduction direction, which is opposite to the first introduction direction, to the first fluid that is introduced into the confluence return section 43 in the first introduction direction, as described above, thereby causing the first and second fluids to merge with each other. This introduction of the second fluid and its subsequent merging with the first fluid allows the first and second fluids to mix with each other with high efficiency in the confluence return section 4 This allows the mixed fluid to be discharged from 3 to the aforementioned fluid outlet 46a.

[0056] Furthermore, the second fluid introduction channel 42 according to this embodiment introduces the second fluid into the confluence and return section 43 in such a way that the first fluid introduced from the first fluid introduction section 41 and the second fluid collide with each other, thereby dramatically increasing the mixing efficiency of the first and second fluids. In particular, since the second fluid introduction channel 42 according to this embodiment has a smaller channel cross-sectional area than the cross-sectional area (channel cross-sectional area) of the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet section 46a, it is possible to introduce the second fluid into the confluence and return section at a high speed, thereby further increasing the relative speed of the first and second fluids colliding with each other as described above. Moreover, the second fluid introduction channel 42 only needs to introduce the second fluid into the main channel in the middle of the main channel relative to the first fluid flowing through the main channel, and therefore does not require a large channel length, so the pressure loss due to the small channel cross-sectional area of ​​the second fluid introduction channel is small, and the risk of blockage is also low. In this way, the fluid mixer 30 enables efficient mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid while suppressing pressure loss and the risk of blockage.

[0057] The mixing section 44, including the mixed fluid outlet section 46a, allows the mixed fluid to reciprocate along the mixing channel surface, thereby promoting the mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid. This allows for a compact structure along a common mixing channel surface while having a sufficient channel length to promote the mixing of the first and second fluids after their merging. This ensures that, if the fluid mixer 30 is, for example, a reactor, sufficient time is available for the reaction between the first fluid and the second fluid to proceed.

[0058] Furthermore, in the fluid mixer 30, the first and second closing members 34A and 34B can be detached from the main body 32 in which the main flow path is formed, respectively, to open the first and second side surfaces 32b, 32b, respectively. This makes it easier to perform maintenance on both the main flow path connected to the first and second side surfaces 32b, 32b and the second fluid introduction flow path 42 formed in the second closing member 34B.

[0059] Figure 2 shows a fluid mixing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Similar to the fluid mixing system according to the first embodiment, this fluid mixing system comprises a first fluid supply unit 10, a second fluid supply unit 20, and a fluid mixer 30A, and mixes the first fluid and the second fluid by introducing the second fluid into the first fluid while the first fluid is flowing, and its specific applications are not limited.

[0060] The fluid mixer 30A is equipped with a flow channel forming body as shown in Figures 3 to 6, and a plurality of mixing channels are formed in the flow channel forming body. Specifically, the plurality of mixing channels consist of a total of four mixing channels, namely the first mixing channel 40A, the second mixing channel 40B, the third mixing channel 40C, and the fourth mixing channel 40D as shown in Figure 5. Each of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D is laid out along a common mixing channel surface. In the operating position shown in Figure 3, the mixing channel surface is a vertical surface (a surface parallel to the plane of the paper in Figure 3).

[0061] Of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D, the first and second mixing channels 40A and 40B are arranged offset from each other in the flow path development direction (up and down direction in Figures 3 and 5) along the mixing channel surface, and similarly, the third and fourth mixing channels 40C and 40D are arranged offset from each other in the flow path development direction. Furthermore, the first and third mixing channels 40A and 40C are arranged in an arrangement direction corresponding to a direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface (depth direction in Figure 3, left and right direction in Figure 5), and similarly, the second and fourth mixing channels 40B and 40D are arranged in the same arrangement direction.

[0062] In other words, the four mixing channels 40A to 40D in this embodiment are orthogonal to each other. The channels are arranged in both the channel deployment direction and the arrangement direction (i.e., vertically and horizontally). In the arrangement direction, the number of arrangements of multiple mixing channels can be further increased (to 3 or more), thereby increasing the total number of such multiple mixing channels to 6 or more.

[0063] Since the shapes of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D are identical, some of the channels among the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D are omitted from Figure 3. Specifically, to avoid complicating the drawing, only the first mixing channel 40A and a small portion of the second mixing channel 40B are shown in Figure 3.

[0064] Similar to the mixing channel 40 in the first embodiment described above, each of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D includes a main channel and a second fluid introduction channel 42, the main channel including a first fluid introduction section 41, a confluence and return section 43, and a mixing section 44, the mixing section 44 including a mixed fluid outlet section 46a. The first fluid introduction section 41 is connected to the confluence and return section 43 so as to allow the first fluid to be introduced into the confluence and return section 43 along the first introduction direction. In Figure 3, the first introduction direction is a direction that is slightly inclined upward from left to right.

[0065] The confluence and return section 43 is formed to allow the first fluid introduced into the confluence and return section 43 through the first fluid introduction section 41 to return together with the second fluid introduced into the confluence and return section 43 through the second fluid introduction channel 42 and flow to the mixed fluid outlet section 46a, similar to the confluence and return section 43 according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, it has a shape that allows the first and second fluids to flow in the confluence and return direction, specifically a shape that extends in the confluence and return direction. The confluence and return direction is a direction perpendicular to the mixed channel surface (a horizontal direction parallel to the arrangement direction), which is a direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 3 (front view), a direction from bottom to top in Figure 4 (cross-sectional plan view), and a direction from left to right in Figure 5 (side view).

[0066] The mixing section 44 is formed to allow the first fluid and the second fluid introduced into the confluence return section 43 to flow as a mixed fluid while being mixed with each other. The mixing section 44 includes a reciprocating flow path section 46 including the mixed fluid outlet section 46a, a plurality of first return sections 45A, and second return sections 45B.

[0067] The mixed fluid outlet section 46a is connected to the confluence return section 43 in the same way as the mixed fluid outlet section 46a in the first embodiment, allowing the first fluid and the second fluid to flow out of the confluence return section 43 in an outlet direction opposite to the first introduction direction. The first introduction direction and the outlet direction are parallel to the common mixing flow path surface (vertical surface in Figure 1), as in the first embodiment, but because the confluence return section 43 extends in the confluence return direction and the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet section 46a are connected to the inlet and outlet of the confluence return section 43, the positions of the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet section 46a are shifted in the confluence return direction by the length of the confluence return section 43 (that is, in a direction perpendicular to the mixing flow path surface and parallel to the arrangement direction).

[0068] The mixing section 44 is formed to cause the mixed fluid to reciprocate along the mixing channel surface and expand in the channel expansion direction (upward in Figure 3) to promote the mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid. Specifically, it includes a plurality of first return sections 45A, a plurality of second return sections 45B, and a reciprocating channel section 46.

[0069] The plurality of first folded portions 45A are in the reciprocating direction, which is the direction in which the mixed fluid moves back and forth (Figure 3) The first and second folded portions are arranged in the direction of the folded portion arrangement on one side (left side in Figure 3) in the left-right direction. The plurality of second folded portions 45B are arranged in the direction of the folded portion arrangement on the other side (right side in Figure 3) in the reciprocating direction. The direction of the folded portion arrangement is perpendicular to the reciprocating direction and parallel to the mixing flow path surface, and is vertical in the orientation shown in Figures 3 and 5. Each of the plurality of first folded portions 45A and the plurality of second folded portions 45B is formed to cause the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing portion 44 to be folded back in the reciprocating direction, that is, to reverse the direction of the flow of the mixed fluid.

[0070] The reciprocating flow path section 46 is the part that reciprocates the mixed fluid between the confluence return section 43 and the second return section 45B arranged on one side in the reciprocating direction and the plurality of first return sections arranged on the other side. The reciprocating flow path section 46 includes the mixed fluid outlet section 46a and a part downstream of the mixed fluid outlet section 46a that expands the fluid in the flow path expansion direction (upward) while reciprocating the fluid in the reciprocating direction between the plurality of first return sections 45A and the plurality of second return sections 45B.

[0071] Each of the plurality of second bends 45B extends in the second bend direction so as to allow the mixed fluid to flow in the second bend direction parallel to the confluence bend direction, similar to the confluence bend 43. In contrast, each of the plurality of first bends 45A extends in the first bend direction so as to allow the mixed fluid to flow in the first bend direction (from bottom to top in Figure 4, and from right to left in Figure 5), which is the opposite direction to the confluence bend direction and the second bend direction, respectively.

[0072] The merging return section 43 and the plurality of first and second return sections 45A and 45B formed in this manner allow the mixed fluid to rise along the mixing channel surface in a flattened spiral shape in the direction of the first and second return sections (a long, narrow rectangle when viewed from above, with the first and second return sections 45A and 45B as the shorter sides). Here, the first and second mixing channels 40A and 40B form a so-called double helix, drawing the flattened spiral shape at positions offset by half a pitch vertically from each other. Similarly, the third and fourth mixing channels 40C and 40D form a so-called double helix, drawing the flattened spiral shape at positions offset by half a pitch vertically from each other, at positions deviating from the first and second mixing channels 40A and 40B in the direction of arrangement (to the right in Figure 5). In other words, the pair of flow channels consisting of the first and second mixing channels 40A and 40B, and the pair of flow channels consisting of the third and fourth mixing channels 40C and 40D are arranged in the aforementioned arrangement direction, and each pair of flow channels constitutes a so-called double helix.

[0073] The channel forming body in which the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D are formed in this manner includes a main body 32, a first closing member 34A, and a second closing member 34B, similar to the channel forming body according to the first embodiment.

[0074] The main body portion 32 has the main flow paths of the first to fourth mixing flow paths 40A to 40D, namely the first fluid introduction section 41, the confluence return section 43, and the mixing section 44. The main body portion 32 has two sides in the reciprocating direction, namely the first side 32a and the second side 32b. On the first side 32a, recesses defining the plurality of first return sections 45A are open outward (to the left in Figure 1), and on the second side 32b, recesses defining the confluence return section 43 and the plurality of second return sections 45B are open outward (to the right in Figure 1).

[0075] Figure 5 is a side view showing the second side surface 32b. On the second side surface 32b, multiple folded portions are arranged in the flow path development direction (the direction in which the folded portions are arranged; vertically in Figure 5) across two rows (two rows, left and right) in the arrangement direction.

[0076] In Figure 5, of the multiple folded sections on the left side, the lowest folded section is the confluence folded section 43 of the first mixing channel 40A, the second folded section from the bottom is the confluence folded section 43 of the second mixing channel 40B, the (2n+1)th folded section from the bottom (n is a natural number, the same applies hereafter) is the second folded section 45B of the first mixing channel 40A, and the (2n+2)th folded section from the bottom is the second folded section 45B of the second mixing channel 40B. The multiple first folded sections 45A of the first mixing channel 40A are located at a height equivalent to the height of the confluence folded section 43 and the multiple second folded sections 45B of the second mixing channel 40B, and are located on the opposite side (the far side in Figure 5) of the confluence folded section 43 and the multiple second folded sections 45B in the reciprocating direction. The plurality of first folded portions 45A of the second mixing channel 40B are located on the opposite side of each of the plurality of second folded portions 45B of the first mixing channel 40A at the same height as each of the plurality of second folded portions 45B.

[0077] Similarly, of the multiple folded sections arranged on the right side in Figure 5, the lowest folded section is the confluence folded section 43 of the third mixing channel 40C, the second folded section from the bottom is the confluence folded section 43 of the fourth mixing channel 40D, the (2n+1)th folded section from the bottom (where n is a natural number, and the same applies hereafter) is the second folded section 45B of the third mixing channel 40C, and the (2n+2)th folded section from the bottom is the second folded section 45B of the fourth mixing channel 40D. The plurality of first return sections 45A of the third mixing channel 40C are located at the same height as the confluence return section 43 and the plurality of second return sections 45B of the fourth mixing channel 40D, but on the opposite side (towards the back in Figure 5) from the confluence return section 43 and the plurality of second return sections 45B, respectively. The plurality of first return sections 45A of the fourth mixing channel 40D are located at the same height as the plurality of second return sections 45B of the third mixing channel 40C, but on the opposite side from the plurality of second return sections 45B.

[0078] The main body 32 may be composed of a single block-shaped member, but in this embodiment, the main body 32 is composed of a pair of outer plates 35 and a plurality of laminated plates. The plurality of laminated plates are stacked on top of each other in the arrangement direction (depth direction in Figure 3, left-right direction in Figure 5), thereby defining the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixing section 44 of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40B, respectively. The pair of outer plates 35 are positioned on both outer sides of the plurality of laminated plates in the arrangement direction and have a thickness dimension to ensure sufficient strength and rigidity to protect the plurality of laminated plates.

[0079] The aforementioned plurality of laminates can be stacked in the order shown in Figure 7, for example, including laminates 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36E, 36F, 36G, and 36H, thereby suitably defining the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D. In Figure 7, grooves constituting the left half of the first and second mixing channels 40A and 40B are formed on the right sides of the laminates 36A and 36C, respectively, and grooves constituting the right half of the first and second mixing channels 40A and 40B are formed on the left sides of the laminates 36B and 36D adjacent to the laminates 36A and 36C. Similarly, grooves constituting the left half of the third and fourth mixing channels 40C and 40D are formed on the right side surfaces of the laminated boards 36E and 36G, and grooves constituting the right half of the third and fourth mixing channels 40C and 40D are formed on the left side surfaces of the laminated boards 36F and 36H adjacent to each of the laminated boards 36E and 36G.

[0080] The first closing member 34A is detachably attached to the first side surface 32a of the main body 32 so as to close, or shut, the plurality of recesses that define the plurality of first folded portions 45A, thereby defining the plurality of first folded portions 45A together with the main body 32. Specifically, the first closing member 34A has a shape that can cover the first side surface 32a and is detachably fastened to the main body 32 by a plurality of fasteners 31 in a direction parallel to the reciprocating direction.

[0081] The first closing member 34A has a plurality of (four) first fluid supply ports 47 and a plurality of mixed fluid outlet ports 48, each corresponding to the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D. The first fluid supply ports 47 penetrate the first closing member 34A in a direction approximating the first introduction direction (left-right direction in Figure 3) and connect to the inlets of the first fluid introduction sections 41 of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D, respectively. A first fluid distributor 12 is attached to the first closing member 34A, which is connected in common to each of the plurality of first fluid supply ports 47, and the first fluid supply section 10 is connected to the first fluid distributor 12 via piping (not shown). The first fluid distributor 12 distributes the first fluid supplied from the first fluid supply section 10 to the plurality of first fluid supply ports 47. The multiple mixed fluid outlets 48 are connected to the ends of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D, respectively, and are connected to a common mixed fluid recovery unit.

[0082] The second closing member 34B is detachably attached to the second side surface 32b of the main body 32 so as to close, or shut, the plurality of recesses that define the respective confluence return portions 43 and the plurality of second return portions 45B of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D, thereby defining the confluence return portions 43 and the second return portions 45B together with the main body 32. That is, the second side surface 32b corresponds to the return surface that defines the confluence return portion 43 and the second return portion 45B, and the second closing member 34B corresponds to an introduction-side closing member that is detachably attached to the main body 32 so as to close the recesses so as to cover the return surface and establish the plurality of mixing channels 40.

[0083] The second closing member 34B includes a closing member body 50, a gasket 52, and a sealing material 54, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, for each of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D, in order to seal the confluence return section 43 and the plurality of second return sections 45B, and to form the second fluid introduction channel 42.

[0084] The closing member body 50 is formed of a highly rigid material such as a metal plate and has a shape that can cover the second side surface 32b. The closing member body 50 has an opposing surface 51 that can face the second side surface 32b, and can be detachably fastened to the main body 32 in a direction parallel to the reciprocating direction by a plurality of fasteners 31 while the opposing surface 51 faces the second side surface 32b.

[0085] The gasket 52 is a sheet material made of an elastically deformable material such as rubber, and is fixed on the opposing surface 51 in a position in which its thickness direction coincides with the fastening direction of the plurality of fasteners 31. The gasket 52 has an area capable of covering each of the plurality of recesses formed on the second side surface 32b and is fixed to the opposing surface 51.

[0086] The gasket 52 is a sealing member that seals the recesses by elastically compressing and deforming in the direction of fastening (left-right direction in Figure 4) as the closing member body 50 is fastened to the main body 32 by the plurality of fasteners 31, and by its elastic force, it comes into close contact with the second side surface 32b around the plurality of recesses, thereby sealing the recesses and forming the merging return portion 43 and the plurality of second return portions 45B corresponding to the recesses. The sealing member may be a single large-area member capable of covering the plurality of recesses all at once, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, or it may be divided into a plurality of parts that cover the plurality of recesses individually.

[0087] The sealing material 54 is an endless (approximately rectangular frame shape in the figure) member made of an elastically deformable material such as rubber, and is fixed to the opposing surface 51 in the same way as the gasket 52, surrounding the gasket 52 all around. The sealing material 54 is elastically compressible in the fastening direction when the closing member body 50 is fastened to the main body 32 by the plurality of fasteners 31. The sealing material 54 conforms to the gasket 52 and the second side surface 32b while maintaining its shape, thereby further enhancing the sealing performance on the second side surface 32b. The sealing material 54 can be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, it is preferable that the first closing member 34A also includes a sealing material that conforms to the first side surface 32a while elastically deforming, similar to the gasket 52 and the sealing material 54, in order to enhance the sealing performance of the plurality of first folded portions 45A.

[0088] In this embodiment, the gasket 52, which is the sealing member, has the second fluid introduction channels 42 of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D, respectively. Specifically, in the gasket 52, four second fluid introduction holes corresponding to the first fluid introduction sections 41 of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D are formed so as to penetrate the gasket 52 in its thickness direction, i.e., in a direction parallel to the second introduction direction, and these four second fluid introduction holes each constitute the second fluid introduction channels 42 of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D. The second fluid introduction holes that constitute the second fluid introduction channels 42 in this way are straight channels having a channel length smaller than the channel lengths of the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet section 46a of the main channel (in this embodiment, a length corresponding to the thickness of the gasket 52), and preferably have a channel cross-sectional area smaller than the channel cross-sectional area of ​​the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet section 46a.

[0089] Furthermore, each of the second fluid introduction channels 42 in this embodiment is connected to the confluence and return section 43 such that the two fluids supplied from the second fluid supply section 20 are introduced into the confluence and return section 43 along the second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction, and collide with the first fluid introduced from the first fluid introduction section.

[0090] Specifically, each of the second fluid introduction channels 42 is positioned such that, similar to the second fluid introduction channel 42 in the first embodiment, at least a portion (preferably all) of the outlet of the second fluid introduction channel 42, when viewed in the direction along the second introduction direction, overlaps with the outlet of the first fluid introduction section 41 corresponding to the second fluid introduction channel 42 (right end opening in Figure 4). For example, the outlets of the second fluid introduction channels 42 belonging to the first and third mixing channels 40A and 40C shown in Figure 4 (left end opening in Figure 4 that connects to the confluence return section 43) are, throughout their entire range, facing the outlets of the first fluid introduction sections 41 belonging to the first and third mixing channels 40A and 40C, respectively (right end opening in Figure 4 that connects to the confluence return section 43) in the second introduction direction (left direction in Figure 4).

[0091] On the other hand, a plurality of second fluid supply holes 56 are formed inside the closing member body 50, and a second fluid distributor 22 is attached to the closing member body 50. The plurality of second fluid supply holes 56 are formed to extend in the second introduction direction at positions that connect to each of the plurality (four in this embodiment) second fluid introduction channels 42. The second fluid distributor 22 is positioned to connect to each of the plurality of second fluid supply holes 56 and is connected to the second fluid supply unit 20, and distributes the second fluid supplied from the second fluid supply unit 20 to the plurality of second fluid supply holes 56.

[0092] In order to increase the flow velocity of the second fluid introduced into the confluence and return section 43, it is sufficient that the second fluid introduction channel (the second fluid introduction hole in this embodiment) connected to the confluence and return section 43 has a small channel cross-sectional area, and the channel cross-sectional area of ​​the channel for supplying the second fluid to the second fluid introduction channel is not necessarily limited. For example, the relationship between the channel cross-sectional area of ​​the plurality of second fluid supply holes 56 for supplying the second fluid to the second fluid introduction channel 42 shown in Figure 4 and the channel cross-sectional area of ​​the second fluid introduction channel 42 is not limited, and the channel cross-sectional areas of both may be equal. However, as shown in Figure 4, the fact that the second fluid supply hole 56 has a larger diameter than the diameter of the second fluid introduction channel 42 means that even if there is some error in the relative position of the gasket 52 with respect to the closing member body 50, the second fluid introduction channel 42 and this This has the advantage of ensuring reliable communication with the corresponding second fluid supply hole 56.

[0093] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 8 and 9 as a first modification, instead of the plurality of second fluid supply holes 56, a single second fluid supply hole 57 with a large flow path cross-sectional area that can be connected in common to each of the second fluid introduction channels 42 of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D may be formed in the closing member body 50. However, in this first modification, the larger the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the second fluid supply hole 57, the smaller the area in which the gasket 52 is in close contact with the second side surface (folded surface) 32b, which may reduce the sealing performance. Conversely, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, forming the plurality of second fluid supply holes 56 corresponding to each of the second fluid introduction channels 42 allows the gasket 52 to contact the second side surface 32b over a sufficient area to ensure high sealing performance, while reliably supplying the second fluid to each of the second fluid introduction channels 42 through the plurality of second fluid supply holes 56.

[0094] Next, we will explain how this fluid mixing system works.

[0095] The first fluid supply unit 10 supplies the first fluid to the first fluid distributor 12, which is attached to the first closing member 34A of the fluid mixer 30A. The first fluid thus supplied is distributed to a plurality of first fluid supply ports 47, which correspond to the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D, respectively. The first fluid introduction ports 41 of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D, which are connected to the plurality of first fluid supply ports 47, guide the first fluid in the first introduction direction along the first fluid introduction port 41, enabling the first fluid to be introduced into the confluence return section 43 in the first introduction direction.

[0096] Meanwhile, the second fluid supply unit 20 supplies a second fluid to the second fluid distributor 22, which is attached to the second closing member 34B of the fluid mixer 30A. The second fluid thus supplied is distributed to the second fluid introduction channels 42 of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D through the second fluid distributor 22 and the plurality of second fluid supply holes 56. Each of the second fluid introduction channels 42 allows the second fluid supplied as described above to be introduced into the confluence return section 43 in the second introduction direction. This makes it possible to efficiently mix the first and second fluids with a simple structure.

[0097] Furthermore, the second fluid introduction channel 42 in this embodiment makes it possible to cause the second fluid to collide with the first fluid, which is introduced into the confluence and return section 43 through the first fluid introduction section 41 in the first introduction direction opposite to the second introduction direction, at a high relative velocity (velocities in opposite directions). This makes it possible for the first and second fluids to be mixed with each other with higher efficiency as they are led out from the confluence and return section 43 to the mixed fluid outlet section 46a. Then, as the mixed fluid led out to the mixed fluid outlet section 46a flows through the mixing section 44 including the mixed fluid outlet section 46a, mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid is promoted, and for example, a chemical reaction between the first and second fluids due to this mixing is promoted.

[0098] Furthermore, the confluence return section 43 according to this second embodiment is formed to allow the first fluid and the second fluid to flow in a confluence return direction perpendicular to the mixing flow channel surface (upward in Figure 4, to the right in Figure 5), each of the plurality of second return sections 45B is formed to allow the mixed fluid to flow in a second return direction parallel to the confluence return direction, and each of the plurality of first return sections 45A is formed to allow the mixed fluid to flow in a first return direction opposite to the confluence return direction and the second return direction, respectively. This makes it possible for the mixed fluid to smoothly return while flowing in a direction perpendicular to the mixing flow channel surface, that is, in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the mixed fluid reciprocates. Moreover, the first return direction and the second return Because the directions are opposite to each other, the mixed fluid can travel along the mixing channel surface in a spiral-like path (a roughly rectangular path with the folded-back sections 43, 45A, and 45B as the shorter sides when viewed from above) in the direction of the channel development (upward in Figure 3).

[0099] Furthermore, in the fluid mixer 30, the plurality of mixing channels 40 can be compactly arranged along an arrangement direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface, which makes it possible to mix more of the first and second fluids within a limited space.

[0100] On the other hand, in the fluid mixer 30A, the first and second closing members 34A and 34B can be detached from the main body 32 in which the main flow path is formed, respectively, to open the first and second side surfaces 32b and 32b, respectively. This makes it possible to easily perform maintenance on both the main flow path connected to the first and second side surfaces 32a and 32b, and the second fluid introduction flow path 42 formed in the second closing member.

[0101] Furthermore, since the second fluid introduction channel 42 is composed of a second fluid introduction hole formed in the sealing member for sealing, that is, the gasket 52 which seals the confluence return section 43 by conforming tightly to the second side surface 32b while elastically deforming, the tight contact between the gasket 52 and the second side surface 32b ensures that the confluence return section 43 is sealed and allows the second fluid to be introduced into the confluence return section 43 at high speed.

[0102] In the second embodiment described above, the plurality of recesses that constitute the confluence return portion 43 and the plurality of second return portions 45B, which are arranged in the direction of the return arrangement, are formed in the main body portion 32. However, the confluence return portion 43 and the second return portions 45B can also be formed in the sealing member.

[0103] An example of this modification is shown in Figures 10 and 11 as a second modification. The gasket 52, which is a closing member in this modification, is fixed to the opposing surface 51 of the closing member body 50, similar to the gasket 52 shown in Figure 4. However, the gasket 52 has multiple through holes that correspond to the confluence return portions 43 of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D, instead of the second fluid introduction channel 42. Each of the multiple through holes has a shape corresponding to the shape of the confluence return portion 43, and in this modification, it is a rectangular shape that is long in the direction of the confluence return (upward in Figure 10, and to the right in Figure 11). As the closing member body 50 is fastened to the main body 32, the gasket 52 comes into close contact with the second side surface 32b, thereby defining the confluence return portion 43 that is sealed between the second side surface 32b and the opposing surface 51.

[0104] The position in the gasket 52 where the confluence return portion 43 is formed is such that the confluence return portion 43, which is sealed when the closing member body 50 is fastened to the main body portion 32, is connected to the outlet of the first fluid introduction portion 41 (right end opening in Figure 10) and the inlet of the mixed fluid outlet portion 46a (right end opening in Figure 10) in each of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D.

[0105] The opposing surface 51 may be a simple flat surface, but it is preferable that it has a recess 58 as shown in Figure 10, and that the gasket 52 is fitted into the recess 58 to position the gasket 52 relative to the closing member body 50. Fitting the gasket 52 into the recess 58 makes it possible to give the gasket 52 sufficient thickness to form the confluence return portion 43 while keeping the gap between the second side surface 32b, which is the folded surface, and the opposing surface 51 small, and also makes it possible to stabilize the relative position between the confluence return portion 43 formed on the gasket 52 and the second fluid introduction channel 42 formed on the closing member body 50.

[0106] On the other hand, the closing member body 50 has a plurality of (four in this modified example) second fluid introduction holes connected to each of the confluence return sections 43, and these plurality of second fluid introduction holes each constitute the second fluid introduction channels 42 of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D. A second fluid distributor 22 similar to the second fluid distributor 22 according to the second embodiment is attached to the closing member body 50, and the second fluid distributor 22 is arranged to be directly connected to each of the second fluid introduction channels 42 and to directly distribute the second fluid to the second fluid introduction channels 42.

[0107] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments and their modifications described above. The present invention encompasses, for example, the following embodiments.

[0108] (a) Regarding the introduction position of the second fluid into the confluence and return section The introduction position of the second fluid through the second fluid introduction channel into the confluence and return section according to the present invention is not limited to a position where the second fluid and the first fluid collide, but can be appropriately changed according to the specifications. For example, the second fluid introduction channel 42 shown in Figure 4 may be provided at a position shown by the dashed-dot line 42A or 42B in Figure 4, instead of a position opposite the outlet of the first fluid introduction section 41, as shown by the solid line in the figure, i.e., a position where the first and second fluids collide with each other. The position shown by the dashed-dot line 42A is a position between the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet section 46a (an intermediate position in the confluence and return direction), and the second fluid introduction channel 42 provided at this position allows the second fluid to be introduced in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction (confluence and return direction) of the first fluid flowing from the outlet of the first fluid introduction section 41 toward the inlet of the mixed fluid outlet section 46a in the confluence and return direction (upward in Figure 4), and to merge with it. The position indicated by the dashed line 42B is the position where the second fluid introduction channel 42 faces the inlet of the mixed fluid outlet 46a (the position facing the downstream end of the confluence return section 43), and the second fluid introduction channel 42 provided at this position allows the second fluid to be introduced in the same direction as the first fluid flowing from the confluence return section 43 into the mixed fluid outlet 46a and to merge with the first fluid.

[0109] (b) Regarding the merging and turning sections The confluence and return section according to the present invention only needs to allow the first fluid introduced into the confluence and return section through the first fluid introduction section to return together with the second fluid introduced into the confluence and return section through the second fluid introduction channel and flow to the mixed fluid outlet section, and its specific shape is not limited. The confluence and return section may, for example, have the minimum cross-sectional area necessary to connect the outlet of the first fluid introduction section and the inlet of the mixed fluid outlet section. However, a shape that extends in the confluence and return direction so as to allow the first and second fluids to flow in the confluence and return direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface, as shown in Figure 4, has the advantage of allowing the first fluid to return smoothly from the first fluid introduction section to the mixed fluid outlet section through the confluence and return section. In addition, as described in the section "(a) Regarding the position of introducing the second fluid into the confluence and return section" above, there is also the advantage of having a greater degree of freedom in the position where the second fluid is introduced into the confluence and return section. These advantages also apply to the first folded portion and the second folded portion when the mixing portion includes the first folded portion and the second folded portion.

[0110] (c) Regarding the mixing section The specific shape of the mixing section according to the present invention is not limited. The mixing section only needs to have a flow path length that allows sufficient mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid to proceed, and may, for example, extend for a long distance in a specific direction or meander in any direction. However, as in the mixing section 44 according to the first and second embodiments, it is formed such that the mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid proceeds while the mixed fluid is reciprocated along a common mixing flow path surface together with the first fluid introduction section and the mixed fluid outlet section. This design has the advantage of a compact structure that ensures sufficient flow path length (length of the mixing section) not only to merge the first and second fluids with each other but also to allow for mixing of the first and second fluids after their merging (for example, in the case of a reactor, it ensures sufficient time for the reaction between the first and second fluids to proceed). Furthermore, because sufficient mixing effect is obtained when the first and second fluids merge at the merging and reversing section, the reciprocating flow paths connecting the first and second reversing sections downstream do not need to have complex shapes to promote mixing. By making these reciprocating flow paths linear, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, for example, it is possible to reduce the risk of increased flow resistance and blockage.

[0111] (d) Regarding each direction The first and second introduction directions according to the present invention can be arbitrarily set within a range that satisfies the condition that they are opposite directions to each other. For example, the mixing channel surface may be a horizontal plane and the first and second introduction directions may each be horizontal. In this case, the channel deployment direction of the mixing section may also be horizontal, and a plurality of mixing channels may be arranged in a vertical direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface, making it possible to mix many first and second fluids in a compact structure. Alternatively, contrary to the first fluid introduction section 41 and mixed fluid outlet section 46a shown in Figures 1 and 3, the mixed fluid outlet section may be arranged below the first fluid introduction section and the mixing section may be deployed downward. Furthermore, the channel deployment direction (folding section arrangement direction) of the mixing section does not have to be a single direction, and for example, the mixing section may be formed to fold back midway and deploy in the opposite direction (for example, the mixing section 44 shown in Figure 1 folds back at the upper end and deploys downward at a horizontally shifted position). In either case, if the first introduction direction, the exit direction, and the second introduction direction are directions along a common mixing channel surface, then it becomes possible to compactly arrange multiple mixing channels, each including the main channel and the second fluid introduction channel, in directions perpendicular to the mixing channel surface. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0112] 10 First fluid supply section 20 Second fluid supply section 30,30A fluid mixer 32 Main body 32b Second side (folded surface) 34B Second closing member (inlet side closing member) 40 Mixing channel 40A 1st mixing flow path 40B 2nd mixing flow path 40C 3rd mixing flow path 40D 4th mixing channel 41 First fluid introduction section 42 Second fluid introduction channel 43. Merging and turning section 44 Mixing section 45A First turnaround section 45B Second Turning Point 46 Reciprocating flow path section 46a Mixed fluid outlet 50 Closing member body 52 Gasket (sealing component) 56,57 2nd fluid supply hole

Claims

1. A fluid mixer for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid while a first fluid is flowing through it, and mixing the first fluid and the second fluid together, A channel forming body comprising at least one mixing channel formed therein, The at least one mixing channel includes a main channel and a second fluid introduction channel. The main flow path includes a first fluid introduction section, a confluence and return section, and a mixing section, the mixing section including a mixed fluid outlet section, the first fluid introduction section being connected to the confluence and return section to allow the first fluid introduced to the confluence and return section along a first introduction direction, the confluence and return section being configured to allow the first fluid introduced to the confluence and return section through the first fluid introduction section to flow back to the mixed fluid outlet section together with the second fluid introduced to the confluence and return section through a second fluid introduction section, the mixing section being configured to allow the first fluid and the second fluid introduced to the confluence and return section to flow as a mixed fluid while mixing with each other, and the mixed fluid outlet section being connected to the confluence and return section to allow the first fluid and the second fluid to flow out of the confluence and return section in an outlet direction opposite to the first introduction direction. The second fluid introduction channel has a channel length smaller than the respective channel lengths of the first fluid introduction section and the mixed fluid outlet section of the main channel, and is in communication with the confluence return section so as to introduce the second fluid along the second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction and merge it with the first fluid. The flow path forming body includes a main body portion on which the first fluid introduction portion, the confluence return portion, and the mixing portion are formed, and an introduction-side closing member on which the second fluid introduction flow path is formed. The main body portion includes a folded surface, and a recess is formed in the folded surface that defines the merging folded portion. The fluid mixer comprises an introduction-side closing member which seals the confluence return portion by elastically deforming and making close contact with the return surface around the recess, and an introduction hole is formed in the sealing member which is connected to the recess and constitutes the second fluid introduction channel.

2. A fluid mixer according to claim 1, wherein the first introduction direction, the outlet direction, and the second introduction direction are each parallel to a common mixing channel surface, and the mixing section is formed to cause the mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid to proceed while the mixed fluid is reciprocated along the mixing channel surface.

3. A fluid mixer according to claim 2, wherein the mixing section includes a plurality of first folding sections arranged on one side of the reciprocating direction, which is the direction in which the mixed fluid reciprocates, and at least one second folding section arranged on the other side of the reciprocating direction, the plurality of first folding sections and the at least A fluid mixer wherein each of at least one second folding portion is formed to fold back the mixed fluid, the at least one second folding portion is arranged together with the confluence folding portion along a folding portion arrangement direction perpendicular to the reciprocating direction, the plurality of first folding portions are arranged in the reciprocating direction along the folding portion arrangement direction on the side opposite to the confluence folding portion and the at least one second folding portion, a plurality of recesses are formed on the folding surface including the recess defining the confluence folding portion and the recess defining the at least one second folding portion, and the introduction-side closing member is detachably attached to the folding surface of the main body portion so as to close the plurality of recesses.

4. A fluid mixing system for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid while a first fluid is flowing through it, and mixing the first fluid and the second fluid together, A fluid mixer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, A first fluid supply unit that supplies the first fluid to the first fluid introduction port of the fluid mixer, A fluid mixing system comprising a second fluid supply unit that supplies the second fluid to the second fluid introduction channel of the fluid mixer.

5. A fluid mixing method for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid while a first fluid is flowing through it, thereby mixing the first fluid and the second fluid together, Prepare a fluid mixer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The first fluid is introduced into the confluence and return section along the first introduction direction through the first fluid introduction section, The second fluid is introduced into the confluence and return section along the second introduction direction through the second fluid introduction channel, thereby merging it with the first fluid. A fluid mixing method comprising: bringing out the first fluid and the second fluid that has merged with the first fluid as a mixed fluid from the merging and reversing section through the mixed fluid outlet section.

Images