Management systems, management methods, and management programs

Abstract

To improve productivity in culturing the target organism. [Solution] The culture management system 100 includes a culture tank 20, a mobile unit 30, and a culture management device 10 connected to the culture tank 20 and the mobile unit 30. The culture tank 20 contains a culture medium M containing the target culture O being cultured. The mobile unit 30 transports the culture tank 20, which is detachably installed. The culture management device 10 manages the culture environment of the culture medium M contained in the culture tank 20 while it is being transported.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a management system, a management method, and a management program.

Background Art

[0002] In order to culture culture targets such as microorganisms and animal or plant cells, the presence of a culture medium contained in a fixed or semi-fixed culture tank is required. At this time, a worker procures components necessary for medium preparation near the culture tank, introduces the culture target into the culture medium, and performs the culture. In addition, a technique for transporting the culture target over a long distance so as not to reduce the activity of the culture target is also known.

Prior Art Documents

Non-Patent Documents

[0003]

Non-Patent Document 1

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, it is difficult to improve productivity in the culture of culture targets. For example, the above technique is only intended to maintain the survival state of the culture target, and merely transports the culture target to a destination under conditions where metabolic activity is minimized.

[0005] This disclosure has been made in view of the above and aims to improve productivity in culturing the target organism. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A management system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a culture tank, a mobile unit, and a control device connected to the culture tank and the mobile unit, wherein the culture tank stores a culture medium containing a target to be cultured, the mobile unit transports the detachably installed culture tank, and the processor of the control device manages the culture environment of the culture medium stored in the culture tank during transport.

[0007] A management method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a management method performed by a management system including a culture tank, a mobile unit, and a management device connected to the culture tank and the mobile unit, wherein the culture tank stores a culture medium containing a target to be cultured, the mobile unit transports the culture tank which is detachably installed, and the management device manages the culture environment of the culture medium stored in the culture tank while it is being transported.

[0008] A management program according to one embodiment of the present disclosure causes a management device connected to a culture tank containing a culture medium containing a target to be cultured, and a mobile body that transports the culture tank (which is detachably installed), to perform the task of managing the culture environment of the culture medium contained in the culture tank while it is being transported. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, there is an effect of improving the productivity in culturing the target organism. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example configuration of a culture management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Block diagram showing examples of the configuration of each device in the culture management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3]This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the overall flow of the culture management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows an example of the flow of the adjustment and control process of the culture management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] This flowchart shows an example of the flow of the stirring control process in the culture management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of the process flow for the fixation control process of the culture management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a hardware configuration according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The following describes in detail, with reference to the drawings, a management system, a management method, and a management program according to one embodiment of this disclosure. However, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0012] The following describes the configuration and processing of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment, the configuration and processing of each device of the culture management system 100, specific examples of each process of the culture management system 100, the flow of each process of the culture management system 100, and the effects of the embodiment.

[0013] [1. Configuration and operation of the culture management system 100] Referring to Figure 1, the configuration and processing of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment. Below, an example of the overall configuration of the culture management system 100, an example of the overall processing of the culture management system 100, an overview and problems of the culture management system 100-P related to reference technology, and an overview and effects of the culture management system 100 will be described.

[0014] (1-1. Example of the overall configuration of the culture management system 100) The culture management system 100 is composed of a culture management apparatus 10, a culture tank 20, and a mobile body 30. Here, the culture management apparatus 10, the culture tank 20, and the mobile body 30 are communicably connected via a communication network N (not shown) in a wired or wireless manner. As the communication network N, various communication networks such as the Internet and dedicated lines can be adopted.

[0015] (1-1-1. Culture management apparatus 10) The culture management apparatus 10 is a management apparatus that manages the culture tank 20 and the mobile body 30. For example, the culture management apparatus 10 is installed on the cargo bed of the mobile body 30 such as a truck. In addition, the culture management apparatus 10 may be installed in an environment isolated from the mobile body 30. Note that the culture management system 100 shown in FIG. 1 may include a plurality of culture management apparatuses 10. Further, although the example of FIG. 1 shows a case where the culture management apparatus 10 is implemented by a controller having a control panel, it may be implemented by a desktop PC (Personal Computer), a notebook PC, a smartphone, a server, a cloud system, or the like.

[0016] (1-1-2. Culture tank 20) The culture tank 20 is a container that stores a medium M containing a culture target O being cultured. Here, the medium M is, for example, a used medium M provided by a business operator at the transportation source, but may be an unused medium M. In addition, the culture tank 20 is provided with an adjustment unit 21, a stirring unit 22, a fixing unit 23, and a culture tank sensor 24. Note that the culture management system 100 shown in FIG. 1 may include a plurality of culture tanks 20.

[0017] (1-1-2-1. Adjustment unit 21) The adjustment unit 21 is controlled by the culture management device 10, and adjusts the culture conditions of the medium M contained in the culture tank 20 during transportation. For example, the adjustment unit 21 is a heater, a cooler, or the like, and adjusts the temperature of the medium M. Further, the adjustment unit 21 is a nutrient supply device, a gas supply device, or the like, and adjusts the concentration of components dissolved in the medium M. Further, the adjustment unit 21 is a light source, a shutter, an optical path, a reflecting mirror, or the like, and adjusts the state of light applied to the medium M.

[0018] (1-1-2-2. Stirring Unit 22) The stirring unit 22 is controlled by the culture management device 10, and adjusts the culture conditions of the medium M contained in the culture tank 20 during transportation. For example, the stirring unit 22 is a magnetic stirrer, a shaker, a fluid circulation device, or the like, and stirs the medium M.

[0019] (1-1-2-3. Fixing Unit 23) The fixing unit 23 is controlled by the culture management device 10, and detachably fixes the culture tank 20 to the moving body 30. For example, the fixing unit 23 is a bolt, a suspension, a shock absorber, a cushioning material, or the like, and fixes the culture tank 20 to the moving body 30.

[0020] (1-1-2-4. Culture Tank Sensor 24) The culture tank sensor 24 is controlled by the culture management device 10, and measures the state of the medium M in the culture tank 20. For example, the culture tank sensor 24 is a temperature sensor installed inside or outside the culture tank 20, and measures the temperature of the medium M. Further, the culture tank sensor 24 is a concentration sensor installed inside the culture tank 20, and measures the component concentration of the medium M (e.g., nutrient concentration, carbon dioxide concentration, oxygen concentration). Further, the culture tank sensor 24 is an optical sensor installed inside or outside the culture tank 20, and measures the light applied to the medium M (e.g., light amount, irradiation angle).

[0021] (1-1-3. Moving Body 30) The moving body 30 transports the culture tank 20. For example, the moving body 30 is an automobile such as a truck, a train, a ship, an aircraft, a drone, or the like. Further, the moving body 30 is provided with a moving body sensor 31.

[0022] (1-1-3-1. Mobile sensor 31) The mobile sensor 31 is controlled by the culture management device 10 and measures the conditions around the mobile body 30. For example, the mobile sensor 31 is a vibration sensor installed outside the mobile body 30 and measures vibrations (e.g., displacement, velocity, acceleration) generated in the mobile body 30 and the culture tank 20.

[0023] (1-2. Example of the entire culture management system 100) This section describes an example of the overall processing of the culture management system 100. Note that the following processes can be executed in a different order. Also, some of the following processes may be omitted.

[0024] (1-2-1. Adjustment and control processing) Firstly, the culture management device 10 performs adjustment control processing. For example, the culture management device 10 controls the adjustment of the culture conditions of the culture medium M. At this time, the culture management device 10 adjusts the temperature of the culture medium M via the adjustment unit 21 according to the temperature of the culture medium M measured by the culture tank sensor 24. The culture management device 10 also adjusts the concentration of nutrients and other components of the culture medium M via the adjustment unit 21 according to the component concentrations of the culture medium M measured by the culture tank sensor 24. Furthermore, the culture management device 10 adjusts the amount of light irradiated onto the culture medium M via the adjustment unit 21 according to the light measured by the culture tank sensor 24.

[0025] Furthermore, the culture control device 10 can also control the adjustment of the state of the culture medium M in cooperation with the mobile unit 30. For example, the culture control device 10 adjusts the temperature of the culture medium M by transferring the waste heat generated from the mobile unit 30 to the culture tank 20. The culture control device 10 also adjusts the component concentration of the culture medium M by introducing the exhaust gas generated from the mobile unit 30 into the culture tank 20 and allowing the carbon dioxide in the exhaust gas to be absorbed by the culture medium M.

[0026] (1-2-2. Stirring control process) Secondly, the culture management device 10 performs agitation control processing. For example, the culture management device 10 controls the agitation of the culture medium M. At this time, the culture management device 10 agitates the culture medium M via the agitation unit 22 in response to vibrations occurring in the culture tank 20 as measured by the mobile sensor 31.

[0027] Furthermore, the culture control device 10 can also agitate the culture medium M in cooperation with the mobile unit 30. For example, the culture control device 10 transmits vibrations generated from the mobile unit 30 to the culture tank 20, agitating the culture medium M by shaking it.

[0028] (1-2-3. Fixed control processing) Thirdly, the culture management device 10 performs a fixation control process. For example, the culture management device 10 controls the culture vessel 20 which is fixed to the mobile body 30. For example, when the culture medium M departs from its source, the culture management device 10 attaches the culture vessel 20 to the mobile body 30 via the fixing part 23. Also, when the culture medium M arrives at its destination, the culture management device 10 detaches the culture vessel 20 from the mobile body 30 via the fixing part 23.

[0029] Furthermore, the culture management device 10 can also adjust the component concentration of the culture medium M by tilting the culture tank 20 via the fixing part 23 during transport from the source to the destination, thereby increasing the surface area of ​​the liquid surface of the culture medium M and allowing oxygen from the air to be absorbed by the culture medium M. In addition, the culture management device 10 can also agitate the culture medium M by periodically tilting the culture tank 20 via the fixing part 23 during transport from the source to the destination and shaking the culture medium M.

[0030] (1-3. Overview and problems of the 100-P culture management system) This document describes the overview and problems of the culture management system 100-P (not shown) related to the reference technology. Below, we will describe the overview and problems of the culture management system 100-P1 (not shown), which is a static culture technology, and the overview and problems of the culture management system 100-P2 (not shown), which is a culture target transport technology.

[0031] (1-3-1. Overview and problems of the culture management system 100-P1) This document describes the overview and problems of the culture management system 100-P1, which is a static culture technology. Firstly, in the culture management system 100-P1, the culture vessel 20-P1 (not shown) uses a beaker, flask, or single-use bioreactor, etc., to grow the microorganisms or cells that will be the target of culture O. Secondly, in the culture management system 100-P1, the temperature of the culture vessel 20-P1 is adjusted by an incubator or other equipment with a constant temperature function. Thirdly, in the culture management system 100-P1, the culture vessel 20-P1 may also have a ventilation function for supplying oxygen or removing carbon dioxide. Fourthly, in the culture management system 100-P1, the culture medium M is stirred by a magnetic stirrer or shaker when stirring is necessary.

[0032] In this case, in the culture management system 100-P1, the culture tank 20-P1 is fixed to the culture facility. Also in the culture management system 100-P1, worker W (not shown) performs the expansion culture of the inoculum according to the production schedule. Also in the culture management system 100-P1, worker W mixes the components with water in the culture medium preparation tank according to the expansion status of the inoculum, and puts the prepared culture medium M into the culture tank 20-P1. Also in the culture management system 100-P1, worker W purchases and stocks the components to be put into the culture medium preparation tank from the supplier.

[0033] The culture management system 100-P1 has a problem in that, since the culture vessel 20-P1 is fixed to the culture facility, if used culture medium M is to be reused, there is a cost involved in transporting the used culture medium M to another culture facility.

[0034] (1-3-2. Overview and problems of the 100-P2 culture management system) This document describes the overview and problems of the culture management system 100-P2, which is a technology for transporting culture subjects. Firstly, in the culture management system 100-P2, operator W fills the culture medium M containing the culture subject O into a sealed container (e.g., single-use bag, bottle). Secondly, in the culture management system 100-P2, the sealed container is equipped with a refrigeration function or cooling agent to control the temperature of the culture medium M containing the culture subject O and maintain the viability temperature of the culture subject O (e.g., room temperature, cooled, frozen). Thirdly, in the culture management system 100-P2, operator W transports the sealed container by refrigerated truck, container, air cargo, etc. Fourthly, in the culture management system 100-P2, the sealed container is equipped with a shock absorber for fixing to minimize vibration and shock during transport and stabilize the condition inside the sealed container. Fifthly, in the culture management system 100-P2, operator W reactivates the culture subject O after arriving at the destination.

[0035] The culture management system 100-P2 aims to maintain the viability of the culture target O and merely transports it to its destination under conditions that minimize metabolic activity. However, it has the problem that culture of the culture target O cannot be started while the used culture medium M is being transported.

[0036] (1-4. Overview and effects of the culture management system 100) The overview and effects of the culture management system 100 according to this embodiment will be described below. First, the overview of the culture management system 100 will be described, followed by a description of its effects.

[0037] (1-4-1. Overview of Culture Management System 100) In the culture management system 100 according to this embodiment, the following processes are performed. First, the culture management device 10 manages the culture tank 20 during transport and adjusts the temperature of the culture medium M stored in the culture tank 20, the component concentration of the culture medium M, the light irradiated onto the culture medium M, etc. Second, the culture management device 10 manages the culture tank 20 during transport and agitates the culture medium M stored in the culture tank 20. Third, the culture management device 10 manages the attachment of the culture tank 20 to the mobile unit 30 before transport, the tilting of the culture tank 20 during transport, and the detachment of the culture tank 20 from the mobile unit 30 after transport.

[0038] (1-4-2. Effects of the Culture Management System 100) The culture management system 100 according to this embodiment has the following effects. Firstly, even when reused culture medium M is used, the culture management system 100 can culture the target organism O while transporting the used culture medium M to another culture facility, thus contributing to productivity. Secondly, the culture management system 100 can actively control the culture environment during transport to promote metabolic activity for purposes such as the growth, proliferation, and production of products by the target organism O, thereby shortening the time until the production of the target organism is completed.

[0039] As described above, the culture management system 100 can improve the productivity of culturing target O.

[0040] [2. Configuration and operation of each device in the culture management system 100] Referring to Figure 2, the configuration and processing of each device in the culture management system 100 shown in Figure 1 will be described. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of each device in the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment. Below, an example of the overall configuration of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment, an example of the configuration and processing of the culture management device 10, an example of the configuration and processing of the culture tank 20, and an example of the configuration and processing of the mobile unit 30 will be described.

[0041] (2-1. Example of the overall configuration of the culture management system 100) Referring to Figure 2, an example of the overall configuration of the culture management system 100 will be described. As shown in Figure 2, the culture management system 100 consists of a culture management device 10, a culture tank 20, and a mobile unit 30. The culture tank 20 is equipped with an adjustment unit 21, a stirring unit 22, a fixing unit 23, and a culture tank sensor 24. The mobile unit 30 is equipped with a mobile unit sensor 31. Here, the culture management device 10, adjustment unit 21, stirring unit 22, fixing unit 23, culture tank sensor 24, and mobile unit sensor 31 are connected to each other via a communication network N, such as the Internet or a dedicated line, enabling communication by wired or wireless means.

[0042] (2-2. Example configuration and processing of the culture management device 10) Referring to Figure 2, an example of the configuration and processing of the culture management device 10 will be described. The culture management device 10 consists of an input unit 11, an output unit 12, a communication unit 13, a storage unit 14, and a control unit 15.

[0043] (2-2-1. Input section 11) The input unit 11 is responsible for inputting various types of information to the culture management device 10. For example, the input unit 11 can be implemented as a touch panel, control panel, mouse, keyboard, etc., and accepts various types of information to be input to the culture management device 10.

[0044] (2-2-2. Output section 12) The output unit 12 is responsible for outputting various types of information from the culture management device 10. For example, the output unit 12 can be implemented as a touch panel, control panel, display, speaker, etc., and displays various types of information stored in the culture management device 10.

[0045] (2-2-3. Communications Section 13) The communication unit 13 is responsible for data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 13 performs data communication with each communication device via a router or the like. The communication unit 13 can also perform data communication with terminals (not shown).

[0046] (2-2-4. Storage section 14) The memory unit 14 stores various information that the control unit 15 references when it operates, and various information acquired when the control unit 15 operates. Here, the memory unit 14 can be implemented as, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or optical disc. In the example in Figure 2, the memory unit 14 is installed inside the culture management device 10, but it may be installed outside the culture management device 10, or it may be installed as multiple storage areas.

[0047] (2-2-5. Control Unit 15) The control unit 15 controls the entire culture management device 10. It also controls the adjustment unit 21, stirring unit 22, fixing unit 23, and culture tank sensor 24, which are installed in the culture tank 20. Furthermore, the control unit 15 controls the mobile unit sensor 31 installed in the mobile unit 30. Finally, the control unit 15 manages the culture environment of the culture medium M contained in the culture tank 20 during transport.

[0048] Here, the control unit 15 can be implemented by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0049] The following sections describe the control process for the adjustment unit, the control process for the stirring unit, the control process for the fixing unit, the control process for the culture tank sensor, and the control process for the moving unit sensor.

[0050] (2-2-5-1. Adjustment Unit Control Processing) The control unit 15 executes adjustment unit control processing. For example, the control unit 15 sends a control signal to the adjustment unit 21 according to the temperature obtained from the temperature sensor installed in the culture tank 20, and adjusts the temperature of the culture medium M. The control unit 15 also sends a control signal to the adjustment unit 21 according to the component concentration of the culture medium M obtained from the concentration sensor installed in the culture tank 20, and adjusts the components dissolved in the culture medium M. The control unit 15 also sends a control signal to the adjustment unit 21 according to the light state obtained from the light sensor installed in the culture tank 20, and adjusts the light irradiated onto the culture medium M. Details of the adjustment unit control processing will be described later in [3. Specific Examples of Each Process of the Culture Management System 100] (3-2. Specific Examples of Adjustment Control Processing).

[0051] (2-2-5-2. Stirring section control process) The control unit 15 performs stirring unit control processing. For example, the control unit 15 transmits a control signal to the stirring unit 22 according to the vibration state obtained from the vibration sensor installed on the mobile body 30, and stirs the culture medium M. Details of the stirring unit control processing will be described later in [3. Specific Examples of Each Process of the Culture Management System 100] (3-3. Specific Examples of Stirring Control Processing).

[0052] (2-2-5-3. Fixed part control processing) The control unit 15 performs fixed unit control processing. For example, the control unit 15 transmits a control signal to the fixed unit 23 to tilt the liquid surface of the culture medium M contained in the culture tank 20. The control unit 15 also transmits a control signal to the fixed unit 23 to transfer the heat generated from the moving mobile body 30 to the culture tank 20. The control unit 15 also transmits a control signal to the fixed unit 23 to transfer the vibrations generated from the moving mobile body 30 to the culture tank 20. The control unit 15 also transmits a control signal to the fixed unit 23 to allow exhaust gas generated from the moving mobile body 30 to flow into the culture medium M contained in the culture tank 20. Details of the fixed unit control processing will be described later in [3. Specific Examples of Each Process of the Culture Management System 100] (3-4. Specific Examples of Fixed Control Processing).

[0053] (2-2-5-4. Culture Tank Sensor Control Processing) The control unit 15 performs control processing for the culture tank sensor. For example, the control unit 15 sends a control signal to the culture tank sensor 24 to measure the state of the culture medium M in the culture tank 20.

[0054] (2-2-5-5. Mobile Sensor Control Processing) The control unit 15 performs mobile sensor control processing. For example, the control unit 15 sends a control signal to the mobile sensor 31 to measure the state of the surroundings of the mobile body 30.

[0055] (2-3. Example configuration and processing example of culture tank 20) Referring to Figure 2, an example of the configuration and processing of the culture vessel 20 will be described. For example, the culture vessel 20 is a container that stores a culture medium M containing the culture target O during cultivation. Here, the culture medium M is, for example, a used culture medium M provided from the source of transport of the culture vessel 20. The culture target O is, for example, a microorganism or cell intended for cultivation or use at the destination of the culture vessel 20.

[0056] The culture tank 20 is equipped with an adjustment unit 21, a stirring unit 22, a fixing unit 23, and a culture tank sensor 24. The adjustment unit 21, the stirring unit 22, the fixing unit 23, and the culture tank sensor 24 will be described below.

[0057] (2-3-1. Adjustment section 21) The adjustment unit 21 is controlled by the culture management device 10 and adjusts the state of the culture medium M contained in the culture tank 20 during transport. For example, the adjustment unit 21 is implemented by a heater, cooler, etc., and adjusts the temperature of the culture medium M. The adjustment unit 21 is also implemented by a nutrient supply device, a gas supply device, etc., and adjusts the concentration of components dissolved in the culture medium M. Furthermore, the adjustment unit 21 is implemented by a light source, shutter, optical path, reflector, etc., and adjusts the light irradiated onto the culture medium M.

[0058] (2-3-2. Stirring section 22) The stirring unit 22 is controlled by the culture management device 10 and stirs the culture medium M contained in the culture tank 20 during transport. For example, the stirring unit 22 is implemented by a magnetic stirrer, a shaker, fluid circulation equipment, etc., to stir the culture medium M.

[0059] (2-3-3. Fixed part 23) The fixing section 23 is controlled by the culture management device 10 and detachably fixes the culture tank 20 to the mobile body 30. For example, the fixing section 23 can be implemented using bolts, suspensions, shock absorbers, cushioning materials, etc., to fix the culture tank 20 to the mobile body 30. Alternatively, the fixing section 23 may be fixed by a direct fixing method such as bolts, or by a container connection method.

[0060] (2-3-4. Culture tank sensor 24) The culture tank sensor 24 is controlled by the culture management device 10 and measures the state of the culture medium M in the culture tank 20. For example, the culture tank sensor 24 is implemented by a temperature sensor installed inside or outside the culture tank 20 and measures the temperature of the culture medium M.

[0061] Furthermore, the culture tank sensor 24 is realized by a concentration sensor installed inside the culture tank 20, and measures the component concentrations of the culture medium M, such as nutrient concentration, carbon dioxide concentration, and oxygen concentration. The culture tank sensor 24 also measures pH, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, shaking speed, stirring speed, electrical conductivity, and gas phase gas concentration.

[0062] Furthermore, the culture tank sensor 24 is implemented by an optical sensor installed inside or outside the culture tank 20, and measures the amount of light, irradiation angle, etc., of light irradiated onto the culture medium M.

[0063] (2-4. Example configuration and processing of the mobile unit 30) Referring to Figure 2, an example of the configuration and processing of the mobile unit 30 will be described. For example, the mobile unit 30 transports a culture tank 20 that is detachably installed. The mobile unit 30 is also equipped with a mobile unit sensor 31. Below, the types of mobile units 30 will be described, followed by a description of the mobile unit sensor 31.

[0064] (2-4-1. 30 types of mobile devices) For example, the mobile unit 30 is an automobile. Furthermore, the mobile unit 30 can be any means of land transport, such as a large truck, light truck, passenger car, light vehicle, or trailer towed by an automobile. It can also be any means of rail transport, such as a train. Furthermore, the mobile unit 30 can be any means of water transport, such as a ship. Finally, the mobile unit 30 can be any means of air transport, such as an aircraft or drone.

[0065] (2-4-2. Mobile Sensor 31) The mobile sensor 31 is controlled by the culture management device 10 and measures the conditions around the mobile body 30. For example, the mobile sensor 31 is implemented by a vibration sensor installed outside the mobile body 30 and measures displacement, velocity, acceleration, etc., as vibrations generated in the mobile body 30 and the culture tank 20. The mobile sensor 31 is also implemented by an optical sensor installed outside the mobile body 30 and measures the amount of light, irradiation angle, etc., outside the mobile body 30. Furthermore, the mobile sensor 31 is also implemented by a humidity sensor installed outside the mobile body 30 and measures the humidity, etc., outside the mobile body 30.

[0066] [3. Specific examples of each process in the culture management system 100] Specific examples of each process of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described below. Examples of application of the culture management system 100, specific examples of adjustment control processes, specific examples of stirring control processes, and specific examples of fixation control processes will be described.

[0067] (3-1. Application examples of the culture management system 100) This section describes examples of applications for the culture management system 100. Specifically, examples of the culture vessel 20, culture medium M, and culture target O are described below as examples of applications for the culture management system 100.

[0068] (3-1-1. Types of culture tanks) The culture vessel 20 is tank-shaped, bag-shaped, tubular, etc., and is not particularly limited in shape. The culture vessel 20 may also have a multi-compartment structure. Furthermore, the culture vessel 20 may be intended for reuse or for single use.

[0069] (3-1-2.Medium M) Culture medium M is the culture medium M used to culture the target organism O. For example, culture medium M is used culture medium M provided by the carrier of the culture tank 20. Alternatively, culture medium M may be unused culture medium M provided by a business that manufactures and sells culture medium M. Furthermore, culture medium M may contain biological waste.

[0070] The culture medium M can be a natural culture medium, a semi-synthetic culture medium, a synthetic culture medium, etc., and is not particularly limited in terms of its constituent components. Furthermore, the culture medium M can be a liquid culture medium, a solid culture medium, etc., and is not particularly limited in terms of its form.

[0071] (3-1-3. Culture target O) The culture target O is a microorganism or cell. For example, the culture target O is a microorganism or cell that is intended to be cultured or used at the destination of the culture vessel 20.

[0072] The target cells for culture O include, but are not limited to, animal cells, plant cells, microorganisms (e.g., Gram-negative bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria, yeast, filamentous fungi, microalgae, etc.), archaea, artificial cells, virus-infected cells, wild-type cells, gene mutants, genetically modified organisms, etc.

[0073] (3-2. Specific Examples of Adjustment and Control Processing) This section describes specific examples of adjustment and control processes for the culture management system 100. Below, we will describe specific examples of temperature adjustment, culture medium component adjustment, light adjustment, and mobile unit coordination adjustment processes.

[0074] (3-2-1. Specific examples of temperature control processes) As an adjustment and control process, a specific example of a temperature adjustment process will be described. For example, the culture management device 10 adjusts the temperature of the culture medium M via the adjustment unit 21.

[0075] Firstly, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to a culture tank sensor 24 installed outside the culture tank 20, causing it to measure the temperature of the culture tank 20. The culture control device 10 also transmits a control signal to a culture tank sensor 24 installed inside the culture tank 20, causing it to measure the temperature of the culture medium M. At this time, the culture tank sensor 24 is a temperature sensor capable of measuring temperature, and it measures the temperature of the culture tank 20 and the culture medium M.

[0076] Secondly, the culture control device 10 obtains the temperature of the culture vessel 20 from the culture vessel sensor 24. The culture control device 10 also obtains the temperature of the culture medium M from the culture vessel sensor 24.

[0077] Thirdly, if the acquired temperature is outside the reference range, i.e., not within the appropriate temperature range for culturing the culture target O, the culture management device 10 sends a control signal to the adjustment unit 21 to adjust the temperature of the culture medium M. In this case, if the temperature of the culture medium M is too low, the culture management device 10 operates the heater as the adjustment unit 21 to raise the temperature of the culture medium M. On the other hand, if the temperature of the culture medium M is too high, the culture management device 10 operates the cooler as the adjustment unit 21 to lower the temperature of the culture medium M.

[0078] Furthermore, the culture control device 10 can employ heat exchangers such as plate or shell-and-tube type heat exchangers, engine cooling water piping, and warm air circulation paths as temperature control devices.

[0079] As described above, the culture control device 10 can appropriately control the temperature of the culture environment for the culture medium M in the culture tank 20 fixed to the mobile body 30 during transport.

[0080] (3-2-2. Specific examples of culture medium component preparation) As an adjustment and control process, a specific example of a culture medium component adjustment process will be described. For example, the culture management device 10 adjusts the component concentrations of the culture medium M via the adjustment unit 21.

[0081] Firstly, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to a culture tank sensor 24 installed inside the culture tank 20, causing it to measure the component concentrations in the culture tank 20. At this time, the culture tank sensor 24 is a concentration sensor capable of measuring various components, and measures the component concentrations of the culture medium M, such as nutrient concentration, carbon dioxide concentration, and oxygen concentration.

[0082] Secondly, the culture management device 10 acquires the component concentrations of the culture tank 20, such as nutrient concentration, carbon dioxide concentration, and oxygen concentration, from the culture tank sensor 24.

[0083] Thirdly, if the acquired component concentration is outside the standard range, i.e., not within the appropriate component concentration range for culturing the target O, the culture management device 10 sends a control signal to the adjustment unit 21 to adjust the temperature of the culture medium M. At this time, if the nutrient concentration of the culture medium M is too low, the culture management device 10 operates the nutrient supply equipment as the adjustment unit 21 to adjust the nutrient concentration of the culture medium M to a higher level. Also, if the carbon dioxide concentration of the culture medium M is too low, the culture management device 10 operates the carbon dioxide supply equipment as the adjustment unit 21 to adjust the carbon dioxide concentration of the culture medium M to a higher level. Also, if the oxygen concentration of the culture medium M is too low, the culture management device 10 operates the oxygen supply equipment as the adjustment unit 21 to adjust the oxygen concentration of the culture medium M to a higher level. Furthermore, if the nutrient concentration, carbon dioxide concentration, oxygen concentration, etc. of the culture medium M are too high, the culture management device 10 can also operate the component removal equipment or gas discharge equipment as the adjustment unit 21 to adjust the nutrient concentration, carbon dioxide concentration, oxygen concentration, etc. of the culture medium M to a lower level.

[0084] As described above, the culture management device 10 can appropriately manage the component concentration of the culture medium M in the culture tank 20 fixed to the mobile body 30 during transport.

[0085] (3-2-3. Specific Examples of Light Adjustment Processing) As an adjustment and control process, a specific example of a light adjustment process will be described. For example, the culture management device 10 adjusts the state of the light irradiated onto the culture medium M via the adjustment unit 21. In the following description, an example will be given in which the culture tank 20 is installed inside the mobile unit 30 and is not directly irradiated by sunlight, but the culture tank 20 may also be installed in a state in which it is directly irradiated by sunlight.

[0086] Firstly, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to a culture tank sensor 24 installed outside the culture tank 20, causing it to measure the light irradiated onto the culture medium M. The culture control device 10 also transmits a control signal to a mobile unit sensor 31 installed outside the mobile unit 30, causing it to measure the light outside the mobile unit 30. At this time, the culture tank sensor 24 is a light-measuring photosensitive sensor that measures the light intensity and irradiation angle of the light irradiated onto the culture medium M. The mobile unit sensor 31 is also a light-measuring photosensitive sensor that measures the light intensity and irradiation angle of the light outside the mobile unit 30.

[0087] Secondly, the culture control device 10 acquires the light intensity and irradiation angle as the state of light irradiated onto the culture medium M from the culture tank sensor 24. In addition, the culture control device 10 acquires the light intensity and irradiation angle as the state of light outside the mobile body 30 from the mobile body sensor 31.

[0088] Thirdly, if the acquired light intensity is outside the standard range, i.e., not within the range of appropriate light intensity for culturing the culture target O, the culture management device 10 sends a control signal to the adjustment unit 21 to adjust the light irradiated onto the culture medium M. At this time, if the light intensity irradiated onto the culture medium M is too low, the culture management device 10 operates the light source as the adjustment unit 21 to adjust the light intensity irradiated onto the culture medium M to a higher level or change the light irradiation angle. Also, if the light intensity irradiated onto the culture medium M is too low, the culture management device 10 operates the shutter as the adjustment unit 21 to adjust the light intensity irradiated onto the culture medium M from outside the mobile body 30 to a higher level or change the light irradiation angle. On the other hand, if the amount of light irradiated onto the culture medium M is too high, the culture control device 10 operates the light source, shutter, optical path, reflector, etc. as an adjustment unit 21 to lower the amount of light irradiated onto the culture medium M or to change the irradiation angle of the light.

[0089] The culture management device 10 can select an adjustment unit 21 according to the external light conditions of the mobile body 30, as obtained from the mobile body sensor 31. For example, if the amount of external light to the mobile body 30 is low, such as during rainy weather, cloudy weather, or nighttime, the culture management device 10 can select a light source as the adjustment unit 21. Also, if the amount of external light to the mobile body 30 is high, such as during sunny daytime weather, the culture management device 10 can select a shutter, optical path, reflector, etc., as the adjustment unit 21.

[0090] As described above, the culture control device 10 can appropriately manage the light conditions as the culture environment for the culture medium M in the culture tank 20 fixed to the mobile body 30 during transport.

[0091] (3-2-4. Mobile Unit Coordination Processing) As an adjustment and control process, a specific example of a mobile unit coordination adjustment process will be described. For example, the culture management device 10 adjusts the state of the culture medium M in cooperation with the mobile unit 30.

[0092] The culture control device 10 adjusts the temperature of the culture medium M by transferring waste heat generated from the mobile body 30 to the culture tank 20. At this time, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to the fixed unit 23 to control the transfer of heat from the mobile body 30 to the culture tank 20. For example, the culture control device 10 moves the insulating buffer material installed in the fixed unit 23 away from the area around the culture tank 20 to transfer heat from the mobile body 30 to the culture tank 20. Alternatively, the culture control device 10 introduces exhaust gas into the piping installed in the fixed unit 23 to transfer heat from the exhaust gas of the mobile body 30 to the culture tank 20.

[0093] The culture control device 10 adjusts the component concentration of the culture medium M by introducing exhaust gas generated from the mobile unit 30 into the culture tank 20. At this time, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to the stationary unit 23, which directs the exhaust gas into the culture tank 20 via piping installed in the stationary unit 23, thereby adjusting the component concentration of the culture medium M by allowing the carbon dioxide in the exhaust gas to be absorbed by the culture medium M.

[0094] The culture control device 10 can also adjust the component concentration of the culture medium M by performing the culture tank tilting process described later, which allows oxygen from the air to be absorbed into the culture medium M.

[0095] As described above, the culture management device 10 can manage the culture environment of the culture medium M by adjusting the culture conditions in the culture tank 20 fixed to the mobile body 30 during transport, in cooperation with the mobile body 30.

[0096] (3-3. Specific Examples of Stirring Control Processes) This section describes specific examples of the agitation control process of the culture management system 100. Below, specific examples of the culture medium agitation process and the mobile unit-linked agitation process are described.

[0097] (3-3-1. Specific examples of culture medium stirring) As an example of agitation control processing, a specific example of culture medium agitation processing will be described. For example, the culture management device 10 agitates the culture medium M via the agitation unit 22.

[0098] Firstly, the culture management device 10 transmits a control signal to a mobile sensor 31 installed outside the mobile body 30, causing it to measure vibrations generated in the mobile body 30. The culture management device 10 also transmits a control signal to a mobile sensor 31 installed inside the mobile body 30, causing it to measure vibrations generated in the culture tank 20. In this case, the mobile sensor 31 is a vibration sensor capable of measuring vibrations, and measures displacement, velocity, acceleration, etc., as vibrations generated in the mobile body 30 and the culture tank 20.

[0099] Secondly, the culture management device 10 acquires displacement, velocity, acceleration, etc., as vibrations generated in the mobile body 30 and culture tank 20 from the mobile body sensor 31. The culture management device 10 can also acquire turbidity, shaking speed, stirring speed, etc., as a stirring condition from the culture tank sensor 24.

[0100] Thirdly, if the acquired vibration and stirring conditions are outside the standard range, i.e., if appropriate stirring is not being performed to culture the target O, the culture management device 10 sends a control signal to the stirring unit 22 to stir the culture medium M and homogenize the components of the culture medium M. At this time, if the displacement, speed, acceleration, etc. of the mobile body 30 or culture tank 20 are too small, the culture management device 10 operates the magnetic stirring bar as the stirring unit 22 to stir the culture medium M. Also, if the displacement, speed, acceleration, etc. of the mobile body 30 or culture tank 20 are too small, the culture management device 10 operates the shaker as the stirring unit 22 to shake the culture tank 20 and stir the culture medium M. Furthermore, if the displacement, speed, acceleration, etc. of the mobile body 30 or culture tank 20 are too large, the culture management device 10 can reduce vibrations by moving the cushioning material installed on the fixing part 23 to the vicinity of the culture tank 20. In addition, if the displacement, speed, acceleration, etc. of the mobile body 30 or culture tank 20 are too large, the culture management device 10 can also reduce vibrations by activating the shock absorber as the fixing part 23.

[0101] Furthermore, the culture management device 10 can employ, for the purpose of agitating the culture medium, a spring between it and the culture tank 20, the insertion of an eccentric stirring bar into the culture tank 20, the installation of internal barriers such as stirring plates inside the culture tank 20, and a frame that matches the vibration frequency during transport with the resonant frequency.

[0102] As described above, the culture management device 10 can appropriately manage the stirring state of the culture medium M as the culture environment in the culture tank 20 fixed to the mobile body 30 during transport.

[0103] (3-3-2. Mobile-operated stirring process) As an example of agitation control processing, a specific example of a mobile unit-coordinated agitation process will be described. For example, the culture management device 10 agitates the culture medium M in cooperation with the mobile unit 30.

[0104] The culture control device 10 agitates the culture medium M by transmitting vibrations generated from the mobile body 30 to the culture tank 20. At this time, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to the fixed unit 23 to control the transmission of vibrations from the mobile body 30 to the culture tank 20. For example, the culture control device 10 moves the cushioning material installed in the fixed unit 23 away from the vicinity of the culture tank 20 to transmit vibrations from the mobile body 30 to the culture tank 20. Alternatively, the culture control device 10 transmits vibrations from the mobile body 30 to the culture tank 20 by not operating the shock absorber as the fixed unit 23.

[0105] The culture control device 10 agitates the culture medium M by introducing exhaust gas generated from the mobile unit 30 into the culture tank 20. At this time, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to the stationary unit 23, which directs the exhaust gas into the culture tank 20 via piping installed in the stationary unit 23, thereby agitating the culture medium M by circulating the exhaust gas through the culture medium M.

[0106] The culture control device 10 can also agitate the culture medium M by performing the culture tank tilting process described later and shaking the culture tank 20.

[0107] As described above, the culture management device 10 can manage the culture environment of the culture medium M by stirring the culture medium M in the culture tank 20 fixed to the mobile body 30 during transport, in cooperation with the mobile body 30.

[0108] (3-4. Specific Examples of Fixed Control Processing) This section describes specific examples of the fixation control process of the culture management system 100. Below, we will describe specific examples of the culture vessel mounting process, the culture vessel tilting process, and the culture vessel detachment process.

[0109] (3-4-1. Specific examples of culture tank mounting procedures) As a fixed control process, a specific example of the culture tank attachment process will be described. For example, the culture management device 10 attaches the culture tank 20 to the mobile body 30 via the fixing part 23.

[0110] Firstly, when worker W departs from the source of the culture medium M, W unloads the culture tank 20 from the source culture facility and places the culture tank 20 together with the fixing part 23 at a predetermined position on the mobile body 30. At this time, the fixing part 23 may be installed in advance on the mobile body 30 or on the culture tank 20. Furthermore, worker W may use a crane, winch, forklift, conveyor, roller, etc. when unloading and installing the culture tank 20.

[0111] Secondly, the culture management device 10 transmits a control signal to the fixing unit 23 in response to an operation by the operator W at the input unit 11, causing the culture tank 20 to be attached to the mobile unit 30. At this time, the culture management device 10 can also transmit a control signal to the fixing unit 23 in response to an operation by the operator W at the input unit 11, and change the position and strength to which the culture tank 20 is fixed.

[0112] As described above, the culture management device 10 can appropriately transport the culture tank 20 containing the culture medium M provided from the transport source by attaching the culture tank 20 to the mobile unit 30.

[0113] (3-4-2. Inclination treatment of culture tanks) As a fixed control process, a specific example of a culture tank tilting process will be described. For example, the culture management device 10 tilts the culture tank 20 via the fixing part 23.

[0114] Firstly, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to the fixing unit 23 in response to an operation by the operator W at the input unit 11, thereby tilting the culture tank 20. At this time, the culture control device 10 can also transmit a control signal to the fixing unit 23 in response to an operation by the operator W at the input unit 11, thereby changing the tilt angle and number of tilts of the culture tank 20. Furthermore, if the oxygen concentration of the culture medium M is too low, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to the fixing unit 23, tilting the culture tank 20 via the fixing unit 23 to increase the surface area of ​​the liquid surface of the culture medium M, thereby increasing the oxygen concentration of the culture medium M by allowing the culture medium M to absorb oxygen from the air. In addition, if the displacement, speed, acceleration, etc., of the mobile body 30 or the culture tank 20 are too small, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to the fixing unit 23, periodically tilting the culture tank 20 via the fixing unit 23 and shaking the culture tank 20 to agitate the culture medium M.

[0115] Secondly, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to the fixing unit 23 in response to operations performed by the operator W at the input unit 11, returning the culture tank 20 to a horizontal position. Furthermore, when the oxygen concentration of the culture medium M falls within the standard range, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to the fixing unit 23, returning the culture tank 20 to a horizontal position via the fixing unit 23. Additionally, when the displacement, velocity, acceleration, etc., of the mobile unit 30 or the culture tank 20 fall within the standard range, the culture control device 10 transmits a control signal to the fixing unit 23, returning the culture tank 20 to a horizontal position via the fixing unit 23.

[0116] As described above, the culture management device 10 can manage the culture environment of the culture medium M by tilting the culture tank 20, which is fixed to the mobile body 30 during transport.

[0117] (3-4-3. Decontamination of culture tank) As a fixed control process, a specific example of a culture tank detachment process will be described. For example, the culture management device 10 detaches the culture tank 20 from the mobile body 30 via the fixing part 23.

[0118] Firstly, when the culture medium M arrives at its destination, the culture management device 10 transmits a control signal to the fixing unit 23 in response to an operation by the operator W at the input unit 11, and detaches the culture tank 20 from the mobile unit 30.

[0119] Secondly, worker W removes the culture tank 20 from the fixing part 23 and transports it to the culture facility at the destination. Worker W may also use a crane, winch, forklift, conveyor, roller, etc. when removing and transporting the culture tank 20.

[0120] As described above, the culture management device 10 can properly transport the culture tank 20 containing the culture medium M provided from the destination by detaching the culture tank 20 from the mobile body 30.

[0121] [4. Flowchart of each process in the culture management system 100] Referring to Figures 3 to 6, the flow of each process in the culture management system 100 according to this embodiment will be described. Below, the overall flow of the culture management system 100 will be described, followed by a description of each process: adjustment control process, stirring control process, and fixation control process.

[0122] (4-1. Overall processing of the culture management system 100) Referring to Figure 3, the overall processing flow of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the overall processing flow of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment. Note that the processes in steps S101 to S103 below can be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processes in steps S101 to S103 below may be omitted.

[0123] (4-1-1. Adjustment and control processing) Firstly, the culture management system 100 performs an adjustment control process (step S101). For example, the culture management system 100 controls the adjustment of the state of the culture medium M by performing the processes described in steps S201 to S204.

[0124] (4-1-2. Stirring control process) Secondly, the culture management system 100 performs a stirring control process (step S102). For example, the culture management system 100 controls the stirring of the culture medium M by performing the processes described in steps S301 to S302.

[0125] (4-1-3. Fixed control processing) Thirdly, the culture management system 100 performs a fixation control process (step S103) and completes the entire process. For example, the culture management system 100 controls the culture vessel 20 fixed to the mobile body 30 by performing the processes described in steps S401 to S403.

[0126] (4-2. Adjustment and Control Processing) Referring to Figure 4, the flow of the adjustment and control process of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the adjustment and control process of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment. Note that the processes in steps S201 to S204 below can be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processes in steps S201 to S204 below may be omitted.

[0127] (4-2-1. Temperature adjustment process) Firstly, the culture control device 10 performs a temperature adjustment process (step S201). For example, the culture control device 10 adjusts the temperature of the culture medium M via the adjustment unit 21 according to the temperature of the culture medium M measured by the culture tank sensor 24.

[0128] (4-2-2. Preparation of culture medium components) Secondly, the culture management device 10 performs a culture medium component adjustment process (step S202). For example, the culture management device 10 adjusts the concentration of nutrients and other components of the culture medium M via the adjustment unit 21 according to the component concentration of the culture medium M measured by the culture tank sensor 24.

[0129] (4-2-3. Light adjustment treatment) Thirdly, the culture management device 10 performs a light adjustment process (step S203). For example, the culture management device 10 adjusts the amount of light irradiated onto the culture medium M via the adjustment unit 21 in accordance with the light measured by the culture tank sensor 24.

[0130] (4-2-4. Mobile Unit Coordination Processing) Fourth, the culture management device 10 performs a mobile unit coordination adjustment process (step S204) and terminates the adjustment control process. For example, the culture management device 10 adjusts the temperature of the culture medium M by transferring the waste heat generated from the mobile unit 30 to the culture tank 20. The culture management device 10 also adjusts the component concentration of the culture medium M by introducing the exhaust gas generated from the mobile unit 30 into the culture tank 20.

[0131] (4-3. Stirring control process) Referring to Figure 5, the flow of the stirring control process of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the stirring control process of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment. Note that the processes in steps S301 to S302 below can be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processes in steps S301 to S302 below may be omitted.

[0132] (4-3-1. Culture medium stirring treatment) Firstly, the culture management device 10 performs a culture medium stirring process (step S301). For example, the culture management device 10 stirs the culture medium M via the stirring unit 22 in response to vibrations occurring in the culture tank 20 as measured by the mobile sensor 31.

[0133] (4-3-2. Mobile-operated stirring process) Secondly, the culture management device 10 performs a mobile body linked stirring process (step S302) and terminates the stirring control process. For example, the culture management device 10 transmits vibrations generated from the mobile body 30 to the culture tank 20, and stirs the culture medium M by shaking it.

[0134] (4-4. Fixed Control Processing) Referring to Figure 6, the flow of the fixation control process of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 6 is a flowchart of an example of the flow of the fixation control process of the culture management system 100 according to the embodiment. Note that the processes in steps S401 to S403 below can be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processes in steps S401 to S403 below may be omitted.

[0135] (4-4-1. Culture tank installation process) Firstly, the culture management device 10 performs the culture tank mounting process (step S401). For example, when the culture medium M is being transported from its source, the culture tank 20 is attached to the mobile unit 30 via the fixing unit 23.

[0136] (4-4-2. Inclination treatment of culture tanks) Secondly, the culture management device 10 performs a culture tank tilting process (step S402). For example, during transport from the source to the destination, the culture management device 10 tilts the culture tank 20 via the fixing part 23 to adjust the component concentration of the culture medium M. Also, during transport from the source to the destination, the culture management device 10 periodically tilts the culture tank 20 via the fixing part 23 to agitate the culture medium M.

[0137] (4-4-3. Decontamination of culture tank) Thirdly, the culture management device 10 performs a culture tank detachment process (step S403) and terminates the fixation control process. For example, when the culture medium M arrives at its destination, the culture management device 10 detaches the culture tank 20 from the mobile body 30 via the fixation unit 23.

[0138] [5. Effects of the Embodiment] The effects of the embodiment will be described below. Effects 1 to 12 corresponding to the embodiment will be described below.

[0139] (5-1. Effect 1) Firstly, in this embodiment, the culture management system 100 includes a culture tank 20, a mobile unit 30, and a culture management device 10 connected to the culture tank 20 and the mobile unit 30. The culture tank 20 contains a culture medium M containing the culture target O being cultured. The mobile unit 30 transports the detachably installed culture tank 20. The culture management device 10 manages the culture environment of the culture medium M contained in the culture tank 20 while it is being transported. Therefore, in this embodiment, the productivity of culturing the culture target O can be improved.

[0140] (5-2. Effect 2) Secondly, in this embodiment, the culture management device 10 adjusts the temperature of the culture medium M according to the temperature obtained from a temperature sensor installed in the culture tank 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, the temperature of the culture medium M can be controlled as the culture environment, which improves the productivity of culturing the target organism O.

[0141] (5-3. Effect 3) Thirdly, in this embodiment, the culture management device 10 agitates the culture medium M according to the vibration state obtained from the vibration sensor installed on the mobile body 30. Therefore, in this embodiment, the agitation state can be controlled as part of the culture environment of the culture medium M, thereby improving the productivity of culturing the target organism O.

[0142] (5-4. Effect 4) Fourth, in this embodiment, the culture management device 10 adjusts the components dissolved in the culture medium M according to the component concentrations of the culture medium M obtained from a concentration sensor installed in the culture tank 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, the component concentrations can be controlled as part of the culture environment of the culture medium M, thereby improving the productivity of culturing the target organism O.

[0143] (5-5. Effect 5) Fifth, in this embodiment, the culture management device 10 adjusts the light irradiated onto the culture medium M according to the state of light obtained from a light sensor installed in the culture tank 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, the light irradiated as the culture environment for the culture medium M can be managed, thereby improving the productivity of culturing the target organism O.

[0144] (5-6. Effect 6) Sixth, in this embodiment, the culture management device 10 tilts the liquid surface of the culture medium M contained in the culture tank 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, by tilting the culture tank 20, the component concentration and stirring state of the culture environment of the culture medium M can be managed, thereby improving the productivity of culturing the target organism O.

[0145] (5-7. Effect 7) Seventh, in this embodiment, the culture management device 10 transfers the heat generated from the moving body 30 to the culture tank 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, the waste heat from the moving body 30 can be utilized, thereby improving the productivity of culturing the target organism O.

[0146] (5-8. Effect 8) Eighth, in this embodiment, the culture management device 10 transmits vibrations generated from the moving body 30 to the culture tank 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, the vibrations of the moving body 30 can be utilized, thereby improving the productivity of culturing the target organism O.

[0147] (5-9. Effect 9) Ninth, in this embodiment, the culture management device 10 allows exhaust gas generated from the moving mobile body 30 to flow into the culture medium M contained in the culture tank 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, the exhaust gas from the mobile body 30 can be utilized, thereby improving the productivity of culturing the target O.

[0148] (5-10. Effect 10) Tenth, in this embodiment, the culture medium M is used culture medium M provided from the source of the culture tank 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, the used culture medium M can be transported and the target culture O can be cultured at the same time, thereby improving the productivity of culturing the target culture O.

[0149] (5-11. Effect 11) Eleventh, in the embodiment, the culture target O is a microorganism or cell intended to be cultured or used at the destination of the culture vessel 20. Therefore, in the embodiment, the culture time of the culture target O at the destination can be shortened, thereby improving the productivity of culturing the culture target O.

[0150] (5-12. Effect 12) Twelfth, in this embodiment, the mobile body 30 is an automobile. Therefore, in this embodiment, a means of transport on land can be used, which can improve the productivity of culturing the culture target O.

[0151] [6. System] Unless otherwise specified, the processing procedures, control procedures, specific names, and various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings may be changed at will.

[0152] Furthermore, the components of each illustrated device are functionally conceptual and do not necessarily need to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific forms of distribution and integration of each device are not limited to those shown. That is, all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed or integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0153] Furthermore, each processing function performed by each device may be implemented, in whole or in part, by a CPU and a program executed for analysis by that CPU, or by hardware using wired logic.

[0154] [7. Hardware] Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the culture management device 10 will be described. Note that other devices can also have a similar hardware configuration. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, the culture management device 10 has a communication device 10a, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 10b, memory 10c, and a processor 10d. Furthermore, each part shown in Figure 7 is interconnected by a bus or the like.

[0155] The communication device 10a is a network interface card or the like, and communicates with other servers. The HDD 10b stores programs and databases that operate the functions shown in Figure 2.

[0156] The processor 10d operates a process that performs the functions described in Figure 2 by reading a program that performs the same processing as each processing unit shown in Figure 2 from the HDD 10b or the like and loading it into memory 10c. For example, this process performs the same functions as each processing unit of the culture management device 10. Specifically, the processor 10d reads a program that has the same functions as the control unit 15, etc., from the HDD 10b or the like. Then, the processor 10d executes a process that performs the same processing as the control unit 15, etc.

[0157] Thus, the culture management device 10 operates as a device that executes various processing methods by reading and executing a program. Furthermore, the culture management device 10 can also achieve the same functions as the embodiment described above by reading the program from the recording medium using a media reader and executing the read program. Note that the program according to the embodiment is not limited to being executed by the culture management device 10. For example, this disclosure can be similarly applied when another computer or server executes the program, or when they cooperate to execute the program.

[0158] The program according to the embodiment can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. Furthermore, the program can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, flexible disk (FD), CD-ROM, MO (Magneto-Optical disk), or DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), and executed by reading it from the recording medium by a computer.

[0159] [8. Other] Some examples of the combinations of technical features that will be disclosed are listed below.

[0160] (1) A management system comprising a culture tank, a mobile unit, and a control device connected to the culture tank and the mobile unit, wherein the culture tank contains a culture medium containing a target to be cultured, the mobile unit transports the culture tank which is detachably installed, and the processor of the control device manages the culture environment of the culture medium contained in the culture tank while it is being transported.

[0161] (2) The control system according to (1), wherein the processor adjusts the temperature of the culture medium according to the temperature obtained from a temperature sensor installed in the culture tank.

[0162] (3) The management system according to (1) or (2), wherein the processor agitates the culture medium according to the vibration state obtained from the vibration sensor installed on the moving body.

[0163] (4) The control system according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the processor adjusts the components to be dissolved in the culture medium according to the component concentrations of the culture medium obtained from a concentration sensor installed in the culture tank.

[0164] (5) The management system according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the processor adjusts the light irradiated onto the culture medium according to the state of light obtained from the light sensor installed in the culture tank.

[0165] (6) The control system according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the processor tilts the liquid surface of the culture medium contained in the culture tank.

[0166] (7) The control system according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the processor transfers heat generated from the moving body to the culture tank.

[0167] (8) The control system according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the processor transmits vibrations generated from the moving body to the culture tank.

[0168] (9) The management system according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the processor causes exhaust gas generated from the moving body while it is in motion to flow into the culture medium contained in the culture tank.

[0169] (10) The management system according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the culture medium is a used culture medium provided from the source of the culture vessel.

[0170] (11) The management system according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein the culture target is a microorganism or cell intended to be cultured or used at the destination of the culture vessel.

[0171] (12) The management system according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein the mobile body is an automobile.

[0172] (13) A management method performed by a management system including a culture tank, a mobile unit, and a management device connected to the culture tank and the mobile unit, wherein the culture tank stores a culture medium containing a target to be cultured, the mobile unit transports the culture tank which is detachably installed, and the management device manages the culture environment of the culture medium stored in the culture tank while it is being transported.

[0173] (14) A management program that causes a control device connected to a culture tank containing a culture medium containing a target to be cultured, and a mobile body that transports the culture tank to be detachably installed, to perform the task of managing the culture environment of the culture medium contained in the culture tank while it is being transported. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0174] 10 Culture management device 10a Communication device 10b HDD 10c memory 10d processor 11 Input section 12 Output section 13 Communications Department 14 Storage section 15 Control Unit 20 Culture tank 21 Adjustment part 22 Stirring section 23 Fixed part 24. Culture tank sensor 30 Mobile Units 31 Mobile Sensor 100 Culture Management Systems M medium N Communication Network O Culture target W Worker

Claims

1. A management system comprising a culture tank, a mobile unit, and a control device connected to the culture tank and the mobile unit, The culture tank is It stores the culture medium containing the target organism being cultured, The aforementioned moving body is Transporting the culture tank which is installed in a detachable manner, The processor of the aforementioned management device is To manage the culture environment of the culture medium contained in the culture tank during transport, A management system that executes this task.

2. The aforementioned processor, The temperature of the culture medium is adjusted according to the temperature obtained from the temperature sensor installed in the culture tank. The management system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned processor, The culture medium is stirred according to the vibration state obtained from the vibration sensor installed on the moving body. The management system according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned processor, The components dissolved in the culture medium are adjusted according to the component concentrations of the culture medium obtained from the concentration sensor installed in the culture tank. The management system according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned processor, The light irradiated onto the culture medium is adjusted according to the state of light obtained from the light sensor installed in the culture tank. The management system according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned processor, The liquid surface of the culture medium contained in the culture tank is tilted. The management system according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned processor, The heat generated from the moving body during transit is transferred to the culture tank. The management system according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned processor, The vibrations generated from the moving body during movement are transmitted to the culture tank. The management system according to claim 1.

9. The aforementioned processor, The exhaust gas generated from the moving body during transit is introduced into the culture medium contained in the culture tank. The management system according to claim 1.

10. The culture medium is a used culture medium provided by the source of the culture tank. The management system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The culture target is a microorganism or cell intended to be cultured or used at the destination of the culture vessel. The management system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

12. The aforementioned mobile entity is an automobile. The management system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

13. A management method performed by a management system including a culture tank, a mobile unit, and a management device connected to the culture tank and the mobile unit, The culture tank, It stores the culture medium containing the target organism being cultured, The aforementioned moving body, Transporting the culture tank which is installed in a detachable manner, The aforementioned control device To manage the culture environment of the culture medium contained in the culture tank during transport, A method for managing and executing this process.

14. A culture tank containing a culture medium containing the target to be cultured, and a control device connected to a mobile body that transports the culture tank, which is detachably installed, To manage the culture environment of the culture medium contained in the culture tank during transport, A management program that executes [the command / function].

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