Connection structure

Abstract

To provide a connection structure which can secure sealability between a connection part and an insertion pipe.SOLUTION: A connection structure 1 comprises a connection part 2, an insertion pipe 3 and a pressing part 4. The connection part 2 has a cylindrical part 20 to be pressed which is made of an elastomer and can be elastically deformed, and a port 21 arranged on the inside in a radial direction of the part 20 to be pressed and communicating with a flow path 810 of a micro device 8. The insertion pipe 3 is inserted into the port 21. A fluid sample flows between the insertion pipe 3 and the flow path 810. The pressing part 4 is arranged on the outside in the radial direction of the part 20 to be pressed and presses the part 20 to be pressed against the insertion pipe 3 by pressing the part 20 to be pressed from the outside in the radial direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a connection structure for connecting a nozzle, a pipette, or the like to a microdevice. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a microdevice equipped with a metal mounting part. Fig. 16 shows an axial (vertical) cross-sectional view of a part of the microdevice in the document. As shown in Fig. 16, a supply pipe 102 is inserted into mounting part 101 of microdevice 100. Mounting part 101 is made of metal and is not easily elastically deformed. For this reason, mounting part 101 and supply pipe 102 are connected by auxiliary mounting fixture 103.

[0003] The upper end of the auxiliary mounting fixture 103 is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the supply pipe 102. An engagement claw 103a is disposed at the lower end of the auxiliary mounting fixture 103. The engagement claw 103a engages with a locking portion 101a on the outer circumferential surface of the mounting portion 101 from below (the axial direction of the mounting portion 101). This engagement prevents the supply pipe 102 from slipping out of the mounting portion 101 to the upper side, in the microdevice 100. A rubber sealant 104 is disposed in the gap between the supply pipe 102, the mounting portion 101, and the auxiliary mounting fixture 103. The sealant 104 seals the gap.

[0004] However, according to the micro device 100, it is difficult to ensure the sealing between the mounting portion 101 and the supply pipe 102. That is, the engagement force F100 between the engagement claw 103a and the locking portion 101a acts in the axial direction. Therefore, the engagement force cannot press the inner peripheral surface of the mounting portion 101 against the outer peripheral surface of the supply pipe 102. In this respect, the elastic force F101 of the seal material 104 acts in the radial direction. However, the elastic force F101 presses the outer peripheral surface of the supply pipe 102 radially inward. That is, the elastic force acts in a direction that expands the interface between the inner peripheral surface of the mounting portion 101 and the outer peripheral surface of the supply pipe 102. Thus, according to the micro device 100, it is difficult to ensure the sealing between the mounting portion 101 and the supply pipe 102.

[0005] In this regard, Patent Document 2 discloses a microdevice equipped with an elastomer port. A hollow tube is inserted into the port. The insertion of the hollow tube elastically expands the inner circumferential surface of the port. This expansion deformation causes the inner circumferential surface of the port to elastically contact the outer circumferential surface of the hollow tube. Thus, according to the microdevice in this document, the elastic restoring force caused by the expansion deformation of the port seals the interface between the port and the hollow tube. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2004-150891 A [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2013 / 166106 Brochure Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] However, in the case of the microdevice of Patent Document 2, the port itself can freely expand and deform when the hollow tube is inserted. This reduces the pressing force (sealing force) applied from the port to the hollow tube. In other words, the sealing performance is reduced. Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a connection structure that can ensure the sealing performance between the connection part and the insertion tube. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problems, the connection structure disclosed herein is characterized in comprising a connection part having a cylindrical pressable part made of an elastomer and elastically deformable, a port arranged radially inside the pressable part and communicating with a flow path of a microdevice, an insertion tube inserted into the port and through which a fluid sample flows between the port and the flow path, and a pressing part arranged radially outside the pressable part and pressing the pressable part against the insertion tube by pressing the pressable part from the radial outside. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the connection structure of the present disclosure, the pressing portion presses the pressed portion, thereby pressing the inner circumferential surface of the port against the outer circumferential surface of the insertion tube, thereby ensuring a seal between the connection portion and the insertion tube. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a microdevice in which a connection structure according to a first embodiment is used. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the area within box II in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV of FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an axial cross-sectional view of the connection structure in a pre-insertion state. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an axial cross-sectional view of the connection structure in an insertion state. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an axial cross-sectional view of the connecting structure of the second embodiment in a post-insertion state. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an axial cross-sectional view of the connection structure in a pre-insertion state. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an axial cross-sectional view of the connecting structure in an insertion state (part 1). [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an axial cross-sectional view of the connecting structure in an insertion state (part 2). [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an axial cross-sectional view of the connecting structure of the third embodiment in a post-insertion state. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an axial cross-sectional view of the connecting structure according to the fourth embodiment in a post-insertion state. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an axial cross-sectional view of the connecting structure of the fifth embodiment in a post-insertion state. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a top view of the connecting structure according to the sixth embodiment in a post-insertion state. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a top view of the connecting structure in an insertion state. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an axial cross-sectional view of a portion of a conventional microdevice. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a connection structure according to the present disclosure will be described.

[0012] First Embodiment FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a microdevice in which the connection structure of this embodiment is used. For ease of explanation, the second flow channel 810 from the right and the ports 21 on both the front and rear sides of the flow channel 810 are shown through a cover plate 80. FIG. 2 shows an enlarged view of the inside of a box II in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line III-III in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line IV-IV in FIG. 2. In FIG. 3, the left half of the connection structure 1 is shown in an external view, and the right half is shown in a cross-sectional view, with respect to the central axis A of the port 21.

[0013] [Microdevice 8 Configuration] First, the configuration of the microdevice 8 in which the connection structure 1 of the present embodiment is used will be briefly described. As shown in FIG. 1, the microdevice 8 is made of flexible silicone rubber (elastomer) and includes a cover plate 80 and a device body 81. The device body 81 is plate-shaped. A plurality of flow paths 810 extending in the front-rear direction are recessed in the upper surface (front surface) of the device body 81. The cover plate 80 is plate-shaped. The cover plate 80 includes a plate body 800 and a plurality of connection parts 2. The lower surface (rear surface) of the plate body 800 is bonded to the upper surface of the device body 81. That is, the plate body 800 seals the plurality of flow paths 810 from above. The plurality of connection parts 2 are arranged along both front and rear edges of the upper surface of the plate body 800. The plurality of connection parts 2 are provided to protrude upward from the upper surface of the plate body 800.

[0014] [Configuration of connection structure 1] Next, the configuration of the connection structure 1 of this embodiment will be described. The connection structure 1 of this embodiment includes the connection portion 2, the insertion tube 3, and the pressing portion 4 described above.

[0015] (Connection 2) As shown in Figs. 2 to 4, the connection part 2 includes a pressed part 20 and a port 21. As described above, the pressed part 20 is made of silicone rubber (elastomer) and is elastically deformable. The pressed part 20 has a cylindrical shape of the same diameter extending in the vertical direction. The pressed part 20 is disposed over the entire radial length between the outer circumferential surface of the connection part 2 and the inner circumferential surface of the port 21. A pressed surface 20a is disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the pressed part 20.

[0016] As shown in Fig. 4, the port 21 is disposed radially inside the pressed portion 20. The port 21 has a hole shape extending in the vertical direction (the axial direction of the central axis A). The lower end of the port 21 opens to the lower surface of the plate main body 800. The lower end of the port 21 communicates with a flow path 810 of the device main body 81. A guide portion 210, a protrusion portion 211, a tapered portion 212, and a step portion 213 are disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the port 21 from the upper side to the lower side (from the rear side to the front side in the insertion direction of the insertion tube 3 shown in Fig. 3).

[0017] The guide portion 210 is disposed on the opening edge of the port 21. The guide portion 210 has a chamfered shape. The protrusion portion 211 has an annular shape. The protrusion portion 211 protrudes radially inward from the lower end of the guide portion 210. The tapered portion 212 has a tapered shape that is sharpened from the upper side to the lower side. The stepped portion 213 has a stepped shape that reduces in diameter from the upper side to the lower side. As shown in FIG. 3, the lower end (tip) of the insertion tube 3 abuts against the stepped portion 213.

[0018] (insertion tube 3) 2 and 3, the insertion tube 3 can be inserted into and removed from the port 21 of any of the connection parts 2. The insertion tube 3 is made of metal and has a tubular shape extending in the vertical direction. A fluid sample is supplied to the flow channel 810 via the insertion tube 3 and the port 21. Alternatively, a fluid sample is discharged from the flow channel 810 via the port 21 and the insertion tube 3.

[0019] (Pressing part 4) 2 and 3, the pressing portion 4 is disposed radially outward of the pressed portion 20. The pressing portion 4 presses the pressed portion 20 from the radially outward side. That is, the pressing portion 4 presses the inner peripheral surface of the pressed portion 20 (the inner peripheral surface of the port 21) against the outer peripheral surface of the insertion tube 3. The pressing portion 4 is made of metal, and includes a connecting portion 40, a deforming portion 41, and a restraining member 42.

[0020] The connecting portion 40 has a flange shape. The radial inner end of the connecting portion 40 is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the insertion tube 3. The deforming portion 41 has a cylindrical shape as a whole. The deforming portion 41 includes a base portion 410, a tapered portion 411, and a plurality of slits 412. The base portion 410 has a cylindrical shape of the same diameter extending in the vertical direction. The base portion 410 extends downward from the radial outer end of the connecting portion 40. The tapered portion 411 is connected to the lower side of the base portion 410. A pressing surface 411a is arranged on the inner circumferential surface of the tapered portion 411. In a no-load state (natural state, a state in which no load is applied), the tapered portion 411 has a tapered cylindrical shape that is pointed from the upper side to the lower side. The plurality of slits 412 are arranged in the deforming portion 41 at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction. The slits 412 open downward. The slits 412 are arranged in the deformation portion 41 over the entire vertical length of the tapered portion 411 and in a lower portion of the base portion 410 .

[0021] The restraining member 42 includes an annular portion 420 and a power transmission portion 421. The annular portion 420 is disposed radially inside the deformation portion 41. The annular portion 420 is vertically slidable relative to the inner circumferential surface of the deformation portion 41. The position of the restraining member 42 can be switched between a release position (upper position) and a restraining position (lower position). In the release position, the annular portion 420 is disposed radially inside the base portion 410. On the other hand, in the restraining position, the annular portion 420 is disposed radially inside the tapered portion 411. That is, the tapered portion 411 is pushed outward in the radial direction by the annular portion 420.

[0022] The power transmission part 421 protrudes radially outward from the annular part 420. The power transmission part 421 protrudes radially outward from the deformation part 41 through the slit 412. As shown in Fig. 3, the power transmission part 421, i.e., the restraining member 42, is held by a holding part 90 of a robot (not shown) for moving the insertion tube 3, and is movable between a release position and a restraining position.

[0023] [Operation of connection structure 1] Next, a description will be given of the operation of the connection structure 1 of this embodiment when inserting and removing the insertion tube 3 into and from the port 21 of the connection part 2. Hereinafter, the state before the insertion tube 3 is inserted into the port 21 will be referred to as a pre-insertion state, the state during which the insertion tube 3 is being inserted into the port 21 will be referred to as an during-insertion state, and the state after the insertion tube 3 has been inserted into the port 21 will be referred to as a post-insertion state.

[0024] Fig. 5 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the connection structure of this embodiment in a pre-insertion state. Fig. 6 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the same connection structure in an inserted state. Note that Figs. 5 and 6 show the left half of the connection structure 1 in an external view and the right half in a cross-sectional view, respectively, with respect to the central axis A of the port 21. The state shown by the dotted line in Fig. 5 is the no-load state of the connection structure. The state shown in Fig. 3 is the post-insertion state of the connection structure.

[0025] (Before insertion) As shown in FIG. 5, in the pre-insertion state, the pressing part 4 is attached to the insertion tube 3. The restraining member 42 is switched to the restraining position by the gripping part 90 shown in FIG. 3. That is, the annular part 420 is disposed radially inside the tapered part 411. The tapered part 411 is restrained by the annular part 420 in a state in which it is elastically pushed outward in the radial direction with respect to the no-load state (the state shown by the dotted line in FIG. 5). Therefore, an elastic restoring force is accumulated in the tapered part 411 in the radially inward direction. The inner diameter R2 of the lower end (tip, minimum diameter part) of the tapered part 411 is expanded more than the outer diameter R1 of the pressed part 20 (connection part 2). The robot for moving the insertion tube 3 moves the insertion tube 3 with the pressing part 4 attached to it directly above the port 21. That is, the central axis of the insertion tube 3 is placed on the central axis A of the port 21.

[0026] (Inserting state) 5, the robot lowers the insertion tube 3 with the pressing portion 4 as shown by the arrow Y1. That is, the robot brings the insertion tube 3 with the pressing portion 4 closer to the port 21 from above.

[0027] 6, in the insertion state, the lower surface of the annular portion 420 abuts against the upper end surface of the connection portion 2 (the opening surface of the port 21). This stops the descent of the annular portion 420, i.e., the restraining member 42. On the other hand, the inner diameter R2 of the lower end of the tapered portion 411 is larger than the outer diameter R1 of the connection portion 2. Therefore, as shown by the arrow Y2, the portion of the pressing portion 4 other than the restraining member 42 and the insertion tube 3 continue to descend. Therefore, relatively, the annular portion 420 rises radially inside the tapered portion 411. That is, the restraining member 42 moves from the restrained position toward the released position.

[0028] As described above, an elastic restoring force acting inwardly in the radial direction is accumulated in the tapered portion 411 due to the restraint of the annular portion 420. When the annular portion 420 rises relatively radially inside the tapered portion 411, the restraint on the tapered portion 411 is released. Therefore, as the annular portion 420 rises, the tapered portion 411 is deformed to reduce in diameter as shown by the arrow Y3, consuming the accumulated elastic restoring force.

[0029] (After insertion) As shown in FIG. 3, in the post-insertion state, the inner diameter R2 of the lower end of the tapered portion 411 is smaller than the outer diameter R1 of the connection portion 2. The pressing surface 411a of the tapered portion 411 applies a pressing force F (the arrows indicating the pressing force F in the figure are schematic and do not limit the magnitude or direction of the pressing force F. The same applies below) to the pressed surface 20a of the pressed portion 20 from the radial outside. That is, the tapered portion 411 presses the inner peripheral surface of the pressed portion 20 (the inner peripheral surface of the port 21) against the outer peripheral surface of the insertion tube 3. At this time, the pressed portion 20 is pressed by the tapered portion 411 from the radial outside while being supported by the insertion tube 3 from the radial inside. Therefore, the pressed portion 20 is compressed and deformed in the radial direction. In the post-insertion state, a fluid sample is supplied to the flow path 810 through the insertion tube 3 and the port 21. Alternatively, the fluid sample is discharged from the flow channel 810 via the insertion tube 3 and port 21 .

[0030] After the fluid sample flows, the insertion tube 3 is pulled out from the port 21 by using the robot. That is, the above-mentioned series of operations (FIG. 5 (pre-insertion state) → FIG. 6 (insertion state) → FIG. 3 (post-insertion state)) are performed in the reverse direction. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, while the vertical position of the restraining member 42 is fixed by the gripping portion 90, the robot raises the portion of the pressing portion 4 other than the restraining member 42 and the insertion tube 3. Relatively, the annular portion 420 descends radially inward of the tapered portion 411. At this time, the tapered portion 411 is pushed and expanded radially outward by the annular portion 420. Due to the expanding deformation, the pressing force F of the tapered portion 411 against the pressed portion 20 is released. As shown in FIG. 6, the annular portion 420 is switched from the release position to the restraining position. When the annular portion 420 is switched to the restraining position, the gripping portion 90 releases the restraining member 42. 5, the robot further raises the insertion tube 3 with the pressing part 4. In this manner, the insertion and removal operation of the insertion tube 3 into and from the port 21 (the supply and discharge operation of the fluid sample) is automatically performed by the robot for moving the insertion tube 3.

[0031] [Effects] Next, the effect of the connection structure 1 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in Fig. 3, the pressing part 4 can press the elastomer pressed part 20 from the radial outside, thereby pressing the inner circumferential surface of the port 21 against the outer circumferential surface of the insertion tube 3. This ensures sealing between the connection part 2 and the insertion tube 3. This makes it possible to prevent the fluid sample from leaking from the interface between the port 21 and the insertion tube 3.

[0032] As shown in Fig. 6, the pressing portion 4 has a tapered portion 411 (deformed portion 41). In the insertion state, the inner diameter R2 of the lower end of the tapered portion 411 is larger than the outer diameter R1 of the pressed portion 20 (connection portion 2). This makes it possible to prevent the tapered portion 411 from interfering with the pressed portion 20. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 3, in the inserted state, the inner diameter R2 of the lower end of the tapered portion 411 is smaller than the outer diameter R1 of the pressed portion 20. This makes it possible for the tapered portion 411 to press the pressed portion 20.

[0033] 6, the pressing portion 4 includes a restraining member 42 that restrains the inner diameter of the tapered portion 411 (deformed portion 41) in the insertion state. This makes it possible to prevent the tapered portion 411 from interfering with the pressed portion 20.

[0034] 2, the tapered portion 411 has a tapered cylindrical shape. That is, the tapered portion 411 completely surrounds the pressed portion 20. For this reason, the circumferential distribution of the pressing force F shown in FIG. 3 is less likely to vary.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 1, the microdevice 8 is small. In addition, the multiple connection parts 2 are arranged close together. For example, the distance L1 between a pair of connection parts 2 adjacent in the left-right direction is set to 0.5 mm or more and 10 mm or less. In addition, when inserting or removing the insertion tube 3 with the pressing part 4 into or from the port 21, it is necessary to apply or remove the pressing force F by deforming the deformation part 41. For these reasons, it is difficult for a user to manually insert or remove the insertion tube 3 with the pressing part 4 into or from the port 21.

[0036] In this regard, according to the connection structure 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figures 3, 5, and 6, the insertion and removal operation of the insertion tube 3 with the pressing portion 4 into and from the port 21 can be automatically performed by a robot. Therefore, despite the above-mentioned reasons, the insertion and removal operation can be performed quickly and reliably.

[0037] Now, let us assume that only a radially inner portion of the connection portion 2 of the microdevice 8 shown in FIG. 4 is used as the pressed portion 20 shown in FIG. 3 (see FIG. 11 described later). In this case, it is necessary to form an insertion groove into which the pressing portion 4 is inserted on the radially outer side of the pressed portion 20. However, the wall thickness L2 of the connection portion 2 shown in FIG. 4 is very small. For example, the wall thickness L2 (maximum value) is 0.1 mm or more and 1 mm or less. For this reason, it is difficult to form the insertion groove.

[0038] In this regard, according to the connection structure 1 of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the pressed portion 20 is disposed over the entire radial length between the outer peripheral surface of the connection portion 2 and the inner peripheral surface of the port 21. In addition, the pressing portion 4 presses the outer peripheral surface of the connection portion 2 from the radial outside. Therefore, the entire radial length of the connection portion 2 can be used as the pressed portion 20. Therefore, compared to the case where a part of the connection portion 2 is used as the pressed portion 20, it is not necessary to form an insertion groove in the pressed portion 20. In other words, it is not necessary to perform precision machining on the pressed portion 20. Therefore, the structure of the pressed portion 20 is simplified. In addition, it is possible to ensure the sealing between the connection portion 2 and the insertion tube 3 while reducing the manufacturing cost of the pressed portion 20 and therefore the microdevice 8.

[0039] The elastomer forming the pressed portion 20 shown in FIG. 3 is silicone rubber (specifically, silicone rubber containing polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)). The pressing force F (pressing force F has a radially inward component and an axially upward component. Here, the radially inward component of the pressing force F) when the pressing portion 4 presses the pressed portion 20 from the radially outer side is set to 2N or more. Therefore, compared to a case where the pressing force F is less than 2N, leakage of the fluid sample from the interface between the port 21 and the insertion tube 3 can be more reliably suppressed. Moreover, the pressing force F is set to 10N or less. Therefore, compared to a case where the pressing force F exceeds 10N, application of an excessive load to the pressed portion 20 made of silicone rubber can be suppressed.

[0040] The hardness of the silicone rubber forming the pressed portion 20 shown in FIG. 3 is set to 80 degrees or less. That is, the pressed portion 20 is flexible. Therefore, compared to a case where the hardness exceeds 80 degrees, the pressed portion 20 can be deformed more easily. Moreover, the hardness is set to 30 degrees or more. Therefore, compared to a case where the hardness is less than 30 degrees, excessive deformation of the pressed portion 20 when inserting the insertion tube 3 (see FIGS. 5 and 6) can be suppressed. Here, the "hardness" refers to the hardness according to durometer type A.

[0041] The Poisson's ratio of the elastomer (non-compressible material) forming the pressed portion 20 is about 0.5. Therefore, in the inserted state shown in FIG. 3, the pressed portion 20 expands in other directions (circumferential direction, axial direction, etc.) by an amount corresponding to the amount of radial compression. In this regard, a plurality of slits 412 are arranged in the deformation portion 41. At least a part of the expansion of the pressed portion 20 enters the slits 412. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the sealing property due to the expansion of the pressed portion 20. Note that at least a part of the expansion of the pressed portion 20 can escape to the upper part or lower part of the pressed portion 20 (the axial outer part of the pressed portion 20).

[0042] As shown in FIG. 3, when a fluid sample is supplied from the insertion tube 3 to the flow path 810, a load F1 acts on the insertion tube 3 in a direction (upward) in which the insertion tube 3 falls off from the port 21. In addition, a frictional force F2 acts between the outer circumferential surface of the insertion tube 3 and the inner circumferential surface of the port 21 against the load F1. A relationship of F2≧F1 is established between the load F1 and the frictional force F2. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the insertion tube 3 from falling off from the port 21. In addition, when a fluid sample is discharged from the flow path 810 to the insertion tube 3, the relationship of F2≧F1 is also established.

[0043] 3, the radial center of the pressing portion 4 (tapered portion 411) and the radial center of the insertion tube 3 are both located on the central axis A of the port 21. That is, the pressing portion 4, the insertion tube 3, and the port 21 are located coaxially. In addition, the wall thickness of the pressed portion 20 (more specifically, the radial wall thickness at a predetermined axial position) is constant over the entire circumferential length. Therefore, the variation in the pressing force F acting on the insertion tube 3 over the entire circumferential length of the port 21 can be suppressed.

[0044] As shown by the dotted line in FIG. 5, in the no-load state, the pressing surface 411a has a tapered surface shape that is sharp from the top to the bottom. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5, in the no-load state, the pressed surface 20a has an outer peripheral surface shape of a coaxial cylinder (straight tube). In this way, in the no-load state, the shape of the pressing surface 411a and the pressed surface 20a are different. As shown in FIG. 3, when the pressing surface 411a presses the pressed surface 20a, the shape of the pressed surface 20a is deformed to reduce in diameter following the shape of the pressing surface 411a. Due to this deformation, the pressed portion 20 is pressed, and the pressed portion 20 is pressed against the insertion tube 3. In this way, due to the difference in shape between the pressing surface 411a and the pressed surface 20a in the no-load state, the pressed portion 20 can be pressed.

[0045] 3, the protrusion 211 is disposed radially inside the pressed portion 20. As shown in Fig. 6, in a state in which no pressing force F is applied, the protrusion 211 is in elastic contact with the outer circumferential surface of the insertion tube 3. According to the connection structure 1 of this embodiment, the elastic contact force of the protrusion 211 can be amplified by the pressing force F.

[0046] 3, the outer diameter of annular portion 420 is larger than the inner diameter of the upper end of tapered portion 411 and is equal to the inner diameter of base portion 410. Therefore, when switching from the during-insertion state (FIG. 6) to the after-insertion state (FIG. 3), the diameter-reducing deformation of tapered portion 411 allows annular portion 420 to be pushed up to the release position shown in FIG.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 6, in the insertion state, the portions of the pressing portion 4 other than the restraining member 42 do not interfere with the connection portion 2, i.e., the micro device 8. This makes it possible to prevent the flexible micro device 8 from being deformed during the insertion operation of the insertion tube 3. In addition, the pressed portion 20 is made of an elastomer. On the other hand, the insertion tube 3 and the tapered portion 411 are made of metal. This makes it possible to easily deform the pressed portion 20, as shown in FIG. 3.

[0048] In the conventional microdevice 100 shown in FIG. 16, an engagement mechanism (engagement claws 103a, locking portion 101a) is arranged in the vertical direction (axial direction). Therefore, after the fluid sample flows, it is difficult to pull out the supply pipe 102 from the attachment portion 101. In this regard, as shown in FIG. 3, in the case of the connection structure 1 of this embodiment, the tapered portion 411 presses the pressed portion 20 from the radial outside. The connection structure 1 does not have an engagement mechanism in the vertical direction. Therefore, after the fluid sample flows, the insertion tube 3 can be easily pulled out from the port 21.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 4, the port 21 has a chamfered guide portion 210. This allows the insertion tube 3 to be guided into the port 21. Also, the insertion tube 3 can be aligned with respect to the central axis A. The port 21 has a protrusion 211. This ensures sealing between the connection portion 2 and the insertion tube 3. The port 21 has a tapered portion 212. This allows the insertion tube 3 to be aligned with respect to the central axis A. The port 21 has a stepped portion 213. This allows the insertion depth (vertical depth) of the insertion tube 3 in the inserted state shown in FIG. 3 to be controlled.

[0050] Second Embodiment The connection structure of this embodiment differs from the connection structure of the first embodiment in that the restraining member restrains the inner diameter of the deformable portion in a post-insertion state, not in a during-insertion state. Here, the difference will be mainly described.

[0051] Fig. 7 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the connection structure of this embodiment in a post-insertion state. Fig. 8 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the connection structure of this embodiment in a pre-insertion state. Fig. 9 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the same connection structure in an insertion state (part 1). Fig. 10 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the same connection structure in an insertion state (part 2). Note that parts corresponding to Figs. 3, 5 and 6 are indicated by the same reference numerals. Also, Figs. 7 to 10 show the left half of the connection structure 1 in an external view and the right half in a cross-sectional view with respect to the central axis A of the port 21.

[0052] [Configuration of connection structure 1] First, the configuration of the connection structure 1 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in Fig. 7, the pressing portion 4 is made of metal and includes a connecting portion 40, a deformation portion 41, and a restraining member 42. The deformation portion 41 includes a base portion 410, a tapered portion 411, a plurality of slits 412, a reverse tapered portion 413, a release position regulating portion 414, and a restraining position regulating portion 415.

[0053] The reverse taper portion 413 is connected to the lower side of the taper portion 411. A pressing surface 413a is disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the reverse taper portion 413. In a no-load state, the reverse taper portion 413 has a tapered cylindrical shape that is pointed from the bottom to the top. A plurality of slits 412 are disposed in the deformation portion 41 at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction. The slits 412 open downward. The slits 412 are disposed over the entire vertical length of the deformation portion 41.

[0054] The release position regulating portion 414 has a flange shape. The release position regulating portion 414 is disposed at the upper end of the base portion 410. The restraint position regulating portion 415 has a flange shape. The restraint position regulating portion 415 is disposed at the lower end of the base portion 410.

[0055] The restraining member 42 is annular and is annularly mounted on the base 410. The restraining member 42 has a larger outer diameter than the release position regulating portion 414 and the restraining position regulating portion 415. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 10, a gripping portion 90 of a robot (not shown) for moving the insertion tube 3 can grip the restraining member 42. The gripping portion 90 allows the restraining member 42 to slide vertically between the release position regulating portion 414 and the restraining position regulating portion 415. That is, the position of the restraining member 42 can be switched between a release position (upper position, a position in contact with the release position regulating portion 414) and a restrained position (lower position, a position in contact with the restraining position regulating portion 415).

[0056] [Operation of connection structure 1] Next, the operation of the connection structure 1 of this embodiment when the insertion tube 3 is inserted into or removed from the port 21 of the connection portion 2 will be described.

[0057] (Before insertion) As shown in Fig. 8, in the pre-insertion state (unloaded state), the pressing part 4 is attached to the insertion tube 3. The restraining member 42 is switched to the release position by the gripping part 90 shown in Fig. 10. The robot for moving the insertion tube 3 moves the insertion tube 3 with the pressing part 4 attached to it to directly above the port 21. In other words, the central axis of the insertion tube 3 is placed on the central axis A of the port 21.

[0058] (Inserting state) The robot lowers the insertion tube 3 with the pressing portion 4 as shown by the arrow Y4 while remaining in the state shown in Fig. 8. That is, the robot brings the insertion tube 3 with the pressing portion 4 closer to the port 21 from above.

[0059] In the release position shown in FIG. 8, the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413 are spaced apart from the restraining member 42. Therefore, the restraining force of the restraining member 42 (load acting radially inward) is not easily transmitted to the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413. Therefore, the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413 are easily deformed in the radial direction with the restraining member 42 as the base point. In addition, the inner diameter R2A of the lower end (tip) of the reverse tapered portion 413 is larger than the outer diameter R1 of the pressed portion 20 (connection portion 2). In addition, the inner diameter R2B of the lower end (minimum diameter portion) of the tapered portion 411 is smaller than the outer diameter R1 of the pressed portion 20 (connection portion 2). Therefore, as shown by arrows Y5 and Y6 in FIG. 9, in the insertion state, the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413 are easily deformed by expanding in diameter as the insertion tube 3 with the pressing portion 4 descends. 10, when the lower end (tip) of the insertion tube 3 abuts against the step portion 213, the robot stops descending the insertion tube 3 with the pressing portion 4. As shown by arrow Y7 in FIG. 10, the gripping portion 90 of the robot switches the restraining member 42 from the release position to the restraining position. By this switching, as shown by arrow Y8, the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413 are deformed to reduce their diameters.

[0060] (After insertion) 7, in the post-insertion state (restraint position), the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413 are close to the restraint member 42. Therefore, the restraint force of the restraint member 42 is easily transmitted to the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413. Therefore, the inner diameter R2B of the lower end of the tapered portion 411 is smaller than the outer diameter R1 of the connection portion 2. The pressing surface 411a of the tapered portion 411 and the pressing surface 413a of the reverse tapered portion 413 apply a pressing force F to the pressed surface 20a of the pressed portion 20 from the radial outside. That is, the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413 press the inner peripheral surface of the pressed portion 20 (the inner peripheral surface of the port 21) against the outer peripheral surface of the insertion tube 3. At this time, the pressed portion 20 is pressed from the radially outer side by the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413 while being supported by the insertion tube 3 from the radially inner side. Therefore, the pressed portion 20 is compressed and deformed in the radial direction. In the post-insertion state, the fluid sample is supplied to the flow path 810 via the insertion tube 3 and the port 21. Alternatively, the fluid sample is discharged from the flow path 810 via the port 21 and the insertion tube 3.

[0061] After the flow of the fluid sample, the robot is used to pull out the insertion tube 3 from the port 21. That is, the above-mentioned series of operations (FIG. 8 (pre-insertion state) → FIG. 9 (insertion state) → FIG. 10 (insertion state) → FIG. 7 (post-insertion state)) are performed in the reverse direction. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 10, the gripper 90 switches the restraining member 42 from the restraining position to the release position. This switching releases the pressing force F of the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413 against the pressed portion 20. After switching the restraining member 42 to the release position, the gripper 90 releases the restraining member 42. As shown in FIG. 8, the robot raises the insertion tube 3 with the pressing portion 4. In this way, the insertion and removal operation of the insertion tube 3 with respect to the port 21 (the supply and discharge operation of the fluid sample) is automatically performed by the robot for moving the insertion tube 3.

[0062] [Effects] Next, a description will be given of the effects of the connection structure 1 of this embodiment. The connection structure 1 of this embodiment and the connection structure of the first embodiment have similar effects with respect to the common portions of the configuration.

[0063] As shown in Fig. 8, in the released position, the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413 are spaced apart from the restraining member 42. Therefore, the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413 are easily deformed in the radial direction. In addition, the inner diameter R2A of the lower end of the reverse tapered portion 413 is larger than the outer diameter R1 of the connection portion 2. In addition, the inner diameter R2B of the lower end of the tapered portion 411 is smaller than the outer diameter R1 of the connection portion 2. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 9, in the insertion state, the tapered portion 411 and the reverse tapered portion 413 can be easily deformed and expanded in diameter as the insertion tube 3 with the pressing portion 4 is lowered.

[0064] 7, in the restraining position, tapered portion 411 and reverse tapered portion 413 are close to restraining member 42. For this reason, the restraining force of restraining member 42 is easily transmitted to tapered portion 411 and reverse tapered portion 413. Therefore, pressing force F can be applied to pressed surface 20a of pressed portion 20 from the radial outside by pressing surface 411a and pressing surface 413a.

[0065] 7, the restraining member 42 has an annular shape. Therefore, the circumferential distribution of the restraining force transmitted from the restraining member 42 to the tapered portion 411 and the inverse tapered portion 413 is less likely to vary. Therefore, the circumferential distribution of the pressing force F is less likely to vary.

[0066] <Third embodiment> The connection structure of this embodiment differs from the connection structure of the first embodiment in that the pressed portion is disposed between the inner surface of the insertion groove and the inner circumferential surface of the port. Here, the difference will be mainly described.

[0067] Fig. 11 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the connection structure of this embodiment in a post-insertion state. The same reference numerals are used to designate parts corresponding to those in Fig. 3. Fig. 11 also shows an external view of the left half of the connection structure 1 with respect to the central axis A of the port 21, and a cross-sectional view of the right half.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 11, the connection part 2 includes an insertion groove 22. The insertion groove 22 has an annular shape centered on the central axis A. The insertion groove 22 opens on the upper end surface (opening surface of the port 21) of the connection part 2. The insertion groove 22 extends in the up-down direction (axial direction). The insertion groove 22 includes an outer side surface 220 and an inner side surface 221. The inner side surface 221 is disposed radially inside the outer side surface 220. The pressed part 20 is disposed over the entire radial length between the inner side surface 221 and the inner peripheral surface of the port 21. That is, the inner side surface 221 corresponds to the outer peripheral surface of the connection part 2 in FIG. 3, FIG. 5, and FIG. 6. The pressed surface 20a is disposed on the inner side surface 221. The port 21 includes a guide portion 210. The port 21 does not include the protrusion portion 211, the tapered portion 212, and the step portion 213 shown in FIG. 4.

[0069] The operation of the connection structure 1 of this embodiment when inserting and removing the insertion tube 3 into and from the port 21 of the connection part 2 is similar to that of the connection structure of the first embodiment. However, as shown in Figures 3 and 11, in the post-insertion state, the tapered portion 411 of the first embodiment presses against the outer circumferential surface of the connection part 2, whereas the tapered portion 411 of this embodiment presses against the inner surface 221 of the insertion groove 22.

[0070] The connection structure 1 of this embodiment and the connection structure of the first embodiment have the same action and effect with respect to the common parts. According to the connection structure 1 of this embodiment, the part of the connection part 2 that is radially inward from the insertion groove 22 is used as the pressed part 20. Therefore, the same material as the material forming the pressed part 20 or a different material (e.g., elastomer, resin, metal, etc.) can be used for the part of the connection part 2 that is radially outward from the insertion groove 22. This increases the freedom of material selection. In addition, the compression amount and pressing force F of the pressed part 20 can be adjusted by adjusting the radial position of the inner surface 221. In addition, the vertical length of the pressed part 20 can be adjusted by adjusting the vertical depth of the insertion groove 22.

[0071] Also, as in this embodiment, the port 21 does not have to include the protrusion 211, the tapered portion 212, and the step portion 213 shown in FIG. 4. That is, the internal space of the port 21 may be cylindrical with the same diameter. Even in this case, the inner circumferential surface of the port 21 can be pressed against the outer circumferential surface of the insertion tube 3 by the pressing force F applied by the tapered portion 411 to the pressed portion 20. This ensures sealing between the connection portion 2 and the insertion tube 3. Also, the insertion depth (vertical depth) of the insertion tube 3 can be controlled by the robot.

[0072] <Fourth embodiment> The connection structure of this embodiment differs from the connection structure of the first embodiment in that the pressed portion is disposed in the reverse tapered portion of the connection portion. Here, the difference will be mainly described.

[0073] Fig. 12 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the connection structure of this embodiment in a state after insertion. The same reference numerals are used for parts corresponding to those in Fig. 3. Fig. 12 also shows an external view of the left half of the connection structure 1 with respect to the central axis A of the port 21, and a cross-sectional view of the right half.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 12, the connection part 2 has a reverse taper part 23. The reverse taper part 23 is disposed in an upper portion of the connection part 2. The pressed part 20 is disposed in the reverse taper part 23. As shown by the dotted line in Fig. 12, in the pre-insertion state (unloaded state), a reverse taper surface 23a that is tapered from the bottom to the top is disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the reverse taper part 23. The pressed surface 20a is disposed on the reverse taper surface 23a.

[0075] The pressing portion 4 includes a connecting portion 40 and a non-deformed portion 43. The non-deformed portion 43 has a cylindrical shape of the same diameter extending in the vertical direction. The non-deformed portion 43 extends downward from the radial outer end of the connecting portion 40. A pressing surface 43a is disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the non-deformed portion 43. A curved chamfered portion 43b is disposed on the inner peripheral edge of the lower end of the non-deformed portion 43. The port 21 includes a guide portion 210. The port 21 does not include the protrusion portion 211, the tapered portion 212, and the step portion 213 shown in FIG. 4.

[0076] When the robot inserts the insertion tube 3 into the port 21, the non-deformation portion 43 descends while pushing the reverse taper portion 23 radially inward. At this time, the chamfered portion 43b slides against the reverse taper surface 23a while being pressed against it. In this manner, by lowering the non-deformation portion 43, a pressing force F is applied from the non-deformation portion 43 to the pressed portion 20. When the robot pulls out the insertion tube 3 from the port 21, the reverse taper portion 23 undergoes radially expanding deformation (returning motion) due to its own elastic restoring force.

[0077] The connection structure 1 of this embodiment and the connection structure of the first embodiment have similar effects with respect to the common configuration parts. According to the connection structure 1 of this embodiment, it is not necessary to deform the non-deformable part 43 of the pressing part 4. In other words, it is not necessary to form a slit 412 (see FIG. 3) in the non-deformable part 43. This simplifies the structure of the pressing part 4.

[0078] Also, unlike this embodiment, the port 21 does not have to include the protrusion 211, the tapered portion 212, and the step portion 213 shown in Fig. 4. Even in this case, as in the third embodiment shown in Fig. 11, the sealing performance between the connection portion 2 and the insertion tube 3 can be ensured by the pressing force F applied to the pressed portion 20 by the non-deformable portion 43. Also, the insertion depth of the insertion tube 3 can be controlled.

[0079] <Fifth embodiment> The connection structure of this embodiment differs from the connection structure of the first embodiment in that the deforming portion is deformed by utilizing the inverse piezoelectric effect of the piezoelectric actuator. Here, the difference will be mainly described.

[0080] Fig. 13 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the connection structure of this embodiment in a state after insertion. The same reference numerals are used for parts corresponding to those in Fig. 3. Fig. 13 also shows an external view of the left half of the connection structure 1 with respect to the central axis A of the port 21, and a cross-sectional view of the right half.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 13, the pressing portion 4 includes a connecting portion 40 and a deformation portion 41. The deformation portion 41 includes a base portion 410, a plurality of piezoelectric actuators 416, and a plurality of slits 412. The plurality of piezoelectric actuators 416 are connected to the lower side of the base portion 410. The plurality of piezoelectric actuators 416 are arranged in the circumferential direction. That is, the plurality of piezoelectric actuators 416 are cylindrical as a whole. The slit 412 is disposed between a pair of piezoelectric actuators 416 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction. The piezoelectric actuator 416 is a bender type piezoelectric actuator. The piezoelectric actuator 416 is plate-shaped and includes an outer layer 416a and an inner layer 416b. The outer layer 416a and the inner layer 416b are joined together.

[0082] When the robot inserts the insertion tube 3 into the port 21 (pre-insertion state, insertion state), no voltage is applied to the outer layer 416a and the inner layer 416b, as shown by the dotted line in Fig. 13. Therefore, the multiple piezoelectric actuators 416 have a cylindrical shape of the same diameter as a whole. Therefore, the piezoelectric actuators 416 do not interfere with the connection part 2.

[0083] On the other hand, as shown by the solid lines in FIG. 13, in the post-insertion state, a voltage is applied to the outer layer 416a and the inner layer 416b. Therefore, the outer layer 416a expands and the inner layer 416b contracts, with the base 410 as the base point. Therefore, the piezo actuator 416 is curved and deformed radially inward. That is, the multiple piezo actuators 416 are collectively deformed in a tapered cylindrical shape that is pointed from the upper side to the lower side. Due to the diameter contraction deformation, the pressing surface 416c of the piezo actuator 416 applies a pressing force F to the pressed surface 20a of the pressed portion 20 from the radial outside. That is, the piezo actuator 416 presses the inner peripheral surface of the pressed portion 20 (the inner peripheral surface of the port 21) against the outer peripheral surface of the insertion tube 3. At this time, the pressed portion 20 is pressed from the radially outer side by the tapered portion 411 while being supported by the insertion tube 3 from the radially inner side. Therefore, the pressed portion 20 is compressed and deformed in the radial direction. When the robot pulls out the insertion tube 3 from the port 21, the voltage application to the outer layer 416a and the inner layer 416b is terminated. The piezo actuator 416 is deformed to expand in diameter (returning) due to its own elastic restoring force.

[0084] The connection structure 1 of this embodiment and the connection structure of the first embodiment have similar effects with respect to the common configuration parts. According to the connection structure 1 of this embodiment, the deformation portion 41 can be deformed without disposing the restraint member 42 shown in Figs. 3 and 7. This simplifies the structure of the pressing portion 4. Also, the deformation portion 41 can be driven by electric power.

[0085] Sixth Embodiment The difference between the connection structure of this embodiment and the connection structure of the first embodiment is that a pressing portion is arranged independent of the insertion tube. Here, the differences will be mainly described. Fig. 14 shows a top view of the connection structure of this embodiment in a post-insertion state. Fig. 15 shows a top view of the connection structure of this embodiment in an insertion state. Note that parts corresponding to Figs. 3 and 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0086] As shown in Figs. 14 and 15, the pressing portion 4 is a separate member from the insertion tube 3 and the connection portion 2. The pressing portion 4 includes an annular deformation portion 41, a coil (not shown), and a power supply unit (not shown). The deformation portion 41 is annularly mounted on the connection portion 2. The deformation portion 41 includes a plurality of divided bodies 417 and a plurality of elastic bodies 418. The divided body 417 is made of an electromagnet and has an arc shape. When a current is passed through the coil, a magnetic force is generated in the divided body 417. The elastic body 418 is made of an elastomer foam and has an arc shape. The divided bodies 417 and the elastic bodies 418 are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction.

[0087] The deformation portion 41 is mounted on the plate body 800 shown in Fig. 1 and is previously attached to the connection portion 2. As shown in Fig. 15, when the robot inserts the insertion tube 3 into the port 21 (pre-insertion state, insertion state), the power supply does not pass current through the coil. Therefore, the deformation portion 41 is not in contact with the connection portion 2. In this state, the robot inserts the insertion tube 3 into the port 21.

[0088] In the inserted state shown in FIG. 14, the power supply unit applies a current to the coil. Therefore, a magnetic attraction force is generated in the divided body 417. Therefore, the divided bodies 417 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction approach each other while compressing the elastic body 418. Therefore, the deformation portion 41 is deformed by contracting in diameter as shown by the arrow Y9. Due to the contraction in diameter, the deformation portion 41 applies a pressing force F to the pressed portion 20 from the radial outside. That is, the deformation portion 41 presses the inner peripheral surface of the pressed portion 20 (the inner peripheral surface of the port 21) against the outer peripheral surface of the insertion tube 3. At this time, the pressed portion 20 is pressed by the tapered portion 411 from the radial outside while being supported by the insertion tube 3 from the radial inside. Therefore, the pressed portion 20 is compressed and deformed in the radial direction. When the robot pulls out the insertion tube 3 from the port 21, the power supply unit cuts off the current to the coil. When the current is cut off, the magnetic attraction force of the divided body 417 is eliminated. As a result, the elastic body 418 expands due to its own elastic restoring force. Therefore, the deformable portion 41 undergoes radially expanding deformation (returning motion) as shown in Fig. 15. Due to this radially expanding deformation, the pressing force F of the deformable portion 41 against the pressed portion 20 is released.

[0089] The connection structure 1 of this embodiment and the connection structure of the first embodiment have similar effects with respect to the common configuration parts. According to the connection structure 1 of this embodiment, the pressing portion 4 can be arranged independently from the insertion tube 3 and the connection portion 2. Furthermore, according to the connection structure 1 of this embodiment, the deformation portion 41 can be deformed without arranging the restraining member 42. This simplifies the structure of the pressing portion 4. Furthermore, the deformation portion 41 can be driven by magnetic force.

[0090] <Other> The above describes the embodiment of the connection structure of the present disclosure. However, the embodiment is not particularly limited to the above embodiment. Various modifications and improvements that can be made by those skilled in the art are also possible.

[0091] The direction of the pressing force F that the pressing part 4 applies to the pressed part 20 is not particularly limited. For example, the pressing force F may have only a radially inward component. Alternatively, the pressing force F may have a radially inward component and an axially upward or downward component. In other words, it is sufficient that the pressing force F has at least a radially inward component.

[0092] The driving force for radially deforming the deformation portion 41 is not particularly limited. For example, the elastic force of the deformation portion 41 itself (FIGS. 3 and 11), the restraining force from the restraining member 42 (FIG. 7), electric power (FIG. 13), magnetic force (FIG. 14), etc. may be used. Fluid pressure (hydraulic pressure, pneumatic pressure, etc.) may also be used. At least two of these forces may be used in combination. Furthermore, when driving the deformation portion 41, an actuator such as a motor, a solenoid, a cylinder, or a pump may also be used.

[0093] The number and positions of the connection parts 2 of the microdevice 8 are not particularly limited. The direction of the arrangement of the microdevice 8 is not particularly limited. The axial direction of the central axis A may be vertical, horizontal, or inclined (a direction other than vertical and horizontal). The material of the microdevice 8 (including the connection parts 2) is not particularly limited. It may be elastomer (more specifically, a material mainly composed of elastomer), resin, or the like. Examples of the elastomer for the microdevice 8 include rubber such as silicone rubber and fluororubber, and thermoplastic elastomers such as styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer, olefin-based thermoplastic elastomer, acrylic-based thermoplastic elastomer, vinyl chloride-based thermoplastic elastomer, polyamide-based thermoplastic elastomer, polyester-based thermoplastic elastomer, and polyurethane-based thermoplastic elastomer.

[0094] Only the pressed portion 20 of the connection portion 2 of the cover plate 80 may be made of elastomer. The entire connection portion 2 may be made of elastomer. The entire cover plate 80 may be made of elastomer. That is, at least the pressed portion 20 of the cover plate 80 may be made of elastomer. The pressed portion 20 may be made of a material other than elastomer (e.g., resin) or a composite material of elastomer and a material other than elastomer, as long as it is elastically deformable by the pressing force F. The material of the device body 81 is not particularly limited. It may be elastomer, resin, glass, or the like. When the cover plate 80 and the device body 81 are made of elastomer, the elastomers of both may be the same or different.

[0095] The positions and the number of the pressing portion 4 and the pressed portion 20 are not particularly limited. The shapes of the pressing portion 4 and the pressed portion 20 are not particularly limited. The radial cross section (direction perpendicular to the central axis A) of each may be an endless ring shape (a perfect circular ring shape, an elliptical ring shape, a polygonal (triangular, rectangular, etc.) ring shape), a ring shape with ends (C-shaped), an arc shape, etc. The shape of the port 21 is not particularly limited. The radial cross section may be a perfect circle shape, an ellipse shape, a polygonal shape, etc. The structure of the pressed portion 20 is not particularly limited. It may be a single layer or multiple layers. For example, the pressed portion 20 may be composed of multiple layers (cylindrical layers centered on the central axis A) with different hardness.

[0096] The type of the insertion tube 3 is not particularly limited. For example, it may be a pipe, a tube, a hose, a nozzle, a pipette, etc. Or, it may be a joint attached to the tip of these members. The shape of the insertion tube 3 is not particularly limited. The radial cross section may be a circular tube, an elliptical tube, a polygonal tube, etc. The material of the insertion tube 3 is not particularly limited. It may be a metal, a resin, an elastomer, etc.

[0097] The type of fluid sample is not particularly limited. For example, it may be an aqueous solution, blood, protein, or nucleic acid solution. The use of the fluid sample is not particularly limited. It may be for testing, or for manufacturing medicines (reagents, mass-produced medicines, etc.). The use of the insertion tube 3 is not particularly limited. The insertion tube 3 may be used to supply a fluid sample to the flow path 810. Also, the insertion tube 3 may be used to discharge a fluid sample from the flow path 810. Of course, the insertion tube 3 may be inserted into the port 21 to continuously supply and discharge (or discharge and supply).

[0098] There is no particular limitation on the number of slits 412. By increasing the number of slits 412, tapered portion 411 can be easily deformed by restraining member 42. There is no particular limitation on the inclination angle (inclination angle with respect to central axis A) of tapered portion 411 and reverse tapered portions 413 and 23.

[0099] The type of the piezo actuator 416 is not particularly limited. It may be a bimorph type or a unimorph type. The number of layers of the piezo actuator 416 is not particularly limited. Increasing the number of layers increases the amount of displacement. The number of layers may be set appropriately according to the desired amount of displacement. Also, instead of the piezo actuator 416, a bimetal may be arranged. That is, the deformation part 41 may be deformed by heat. Also, a ring-shaped or cylindrical piezo actuator 416 may be annularly mounted on the connection part 2 as in the deformation part 41 shown in FIG. 14. In this case, the piezo actuator 416 may be deformed in the radial direction by a voltage. The type of the elastic body 418 is not particularly limited. That is, the elasticity of the elastic body 418 may be due to the material. For example, the elastic body 418 may be made of an elastomer. Also, the elasticity of the elastic body 418 may be due to the structure. For example, a spring may be used as the elastic body 418.

[0100] In the above embodiment, the insertion and removal of the insertion tube 3 into and from the port 21 is automatically performed by a robot for moving the insertion tube 3. However, the insertion and removal may be performed manually by an operator using, for example, a magnifying glass. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 1: Connection structure 2: connection portion, 20: pressed portion, 20a: pressed surface, 21: port, 210: guide portion, 211: protrusion, 212: tapered portion, 213: step portion, 22: insertion groove, 220: outer surface, 221: inner surface, 23: reverse tapered portion, 23a: reverse tapered surface 3: Insertion tube 4: pressing portion, 40: connecting portion, 41: deformation portion, 41a: pressing surface, 410: base portion, 411: tapered portion, 411a: pressing surface, 412: slit, 413: reverse tapered portion, 413a: pressing surface, 414: release position regulating portion, 415: restraint position regulating portion, 416: piezo actuator, 416a: outer layer, 416b: inner layer, 416c: pressing surface, 417: divided body, 418: elastic body, 42: restraint member, 420: annular portion, 421: power transmission portion, 43: non-deformation portion, 43a: pressing surface, 43b: chamfered portion 8: microdevice, 80: cover plate, 800: plate body, 81: device body, 810: flow channel 90: Grip part

Claims

1. A connection part having a cylindrical pressure-receiving part made of an elastomer and capable of elastic deformation, and a port disposed radially inside the pressure-receiving part and communicating with a flow channel of a microdevice; an insertion tube that is inserted into the port and through which a fluid sample flows between the insertion tube and the flow channel; a pressing portion disposed radially outside the pressed portion and pressing the pressed portion against the insertion tube by pressing the pressed portion from the radially outside; A connection structure comprising:

2. the pressed portion is disposed between an outer circumferential surface of the connection portion and an inner circumferential surface of the port, The connection structure according to claim 1 , wherein the pressing portion presses the outer circumferential surface of the connection portion from the radially outer side.

3. the connection portion has an insertion groove into which the pressing portion is inserted, The insertion groove has an outer surface facing inward in the radial direction and an inner surface facing outward in the radial direction, the inner surface being disposed radially inside the outer surface, the pressed portion is disposed between the inner surface and an inner circumferential surface of the port, The connection structure according to claim 1 , wherein the pressing portion presses the inner surface from a radially outer side.

4. the elastomer forming the pressed portion is silicone rubber, 4. The connection structure according to claim 1, wherein the pressing force applied by the pressing portion to the pressed portion from the radially outer side is 2N or more and 10N or less.

5. 5. The connection structure according to claim 4, wherein the silicone rubber has a hardness of 80 degrees or less.

6. When the fluid sample flows between the flow channel and the insertion tube, a load acting on the insertion tube in a direction in which the insertion tube falls off the port is defined as F1; F2 is a friction force between the outer circumferential surface of the insertion tube and the inner circumferential surface of the port; As, 6. The connection structure according to claim 1, wherein the relationship F2≧F1 holds.

7. 7. The connection structure according to claim 1, wherein the pressing portion, the insertion tube, and the port are arranged coaxially.

8. The inner circumferential surface of the pressing portion has a pressing surface, The outer peripheral surface of the pressed portion has a pressed surface that is pressed by the pressing surface, In a no-load state, the shape of the pressing surface and the shape of the pressed surface are different, A connection structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein when the pressing surface presses the pressed surface, the shape of the pressed surface imitates the shape of the pressing surface, thereby compressing the pressed portion and pressing the pressed portion against the insertion tube.

9. The inner circumferential surface of the port has an annular protrusion protruding radially inward, 9. The connection structure according to claim 1, wherein the protrusion is disposed radially inward of the pressed portion.

10. A state in which the insertion tube is being inserted into the port is defined as an in-insertion state, and a state in which the insertion tube is inserted into the port is defined as a post-insertion state. The pressing portion has a deformation portion that is deformable in a radial direction, 10. The connection structure according to claim 1, wherein an inner diameter of the deformed portion is smaller in the inserted state than in the during-insertion state.

11. The connection structure according to claim 10 , further comprising a restraining member that restrains the deformation portion in the during-insertion state or the after-insertion state.

Images