fluid mixer

Abstract

To efficiently mix a first fluid and a second fluid.SOLUTION: A fluid mixer 30 is equipped with a channel forming body, and a mixing channel 40 is formed in the channel forming body. The mixing channel 40 includes a main channel and a second fluid introduction channel 42. The main channel includes a first fluid introduction part 41, a confluent turning-back part 43, and a mixing part 44. The mixing part 44 includes a mixed fluid introduction part 46a. The first fluid introduction part 41 permits a first fluid to be introduced into the confluent turning-back part 43 in a first introducing direction. The confluent turning-back part 43 permits the first fluid to turn back with a second fluid and flow to the mixed fluid introduction part 46a. A second fluid introduction channel 42 has channel length smaller than the channel length of each of the first fluid introduction part 41 and the mixed fluid introduction part 46, and introduces the second fluid into the confluent turning-back part 43 in a second introducing direction opposite to the first introducing direction to be merged with the first fluid.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid mixer for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid to mix the two. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a mixer having a mixing channel formed therein has been known as a means for efficiently mixing a first fluid and a second fluid that are different from each other. The mixing channel is formed so that the second fluid can merge with the first fluid and mix with each other, thereby enabling the first and second fluids to be mixed efficiently.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a reactor for mixing a first raw material liquid and a second raw material liquid to cause a chemical reaction between them. The reactor includes a plurality of reaction channel substrates stacked on top of each other, each of which has a plurality of first reaction grooves, a plurality of second reaction grooves, and a plurality of through-holes. The plurality of first reaction grooves are formed on one surface (front side) of each reaction channel substrate and allow the first raw material liquid to flow through each first reaction groove. The plurality of second reaction grooves are formed on the other surface (back side) of each reaction channel substrate and allow the second raw material liquid to flow through each second reaction groove. The plurality of through-holes penetrate each reaction channel substrate in the plate thickness direction to interconnect the middle portion of the first reaction groove and the end of the second reaction groove, allowing the second raw material fluid to merge from the second reaction groove through the through-holes with the first raw material fluid flowing through the first reaction groove. The first and second raw material fluids thus joined together flow within the first reaction channel in a region downstream of the through-holes, whereby they are mixed together and cause a chemical reaction. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-211942 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the fluid mixer, the first and second reaction grooves must be provided at different positions in the thickness direction of the reaction channel substrate, and the two reaction grooves must be arranged parallel to each other, which increases the overall dimension of the fluid mixer in the thickness direction. Furthermore, a through-hole is provided at the end of the second reaction groove, and the second fluid that strikes the end flows into the through-hole in a direction perpendicular to the first and second reaction grooves, allowing it to merge with the first fluid. This results in a complex flow and channel structure for the second fluid to merge with the first fluid. In particular, the large change in direction of the second fluid at the end of the second reaction groove creates significant channel resistance, making it susceptible to clogging and making maintenance difficult when clogging occurs.

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a fluid mixer that has a simple and compact structure and is capable of efficiently mixing a first fluid and a second fluid. [Means for solving the problem]

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

[0008] In this way, the second fluid introduction channel introduces the second fluid into the confluence turning portion, which is the portion of the main channel where the first fluid turns back, and therefore does not need to have a long channel length or a complex shape. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the channel resistance of the second fluid in the second fluid introduction channel and improve mixing efficiency. Furthermore, because the second fluid introduction channel introduces the second fluid in a second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction of the first fluid introduction section, it is possible to arrange the first fluid introduction section and the second fluid introduction channel on approximately the same plane, which enables the channel formation body to be made compact.

[0009] Here, "introducing the second fluid into the confluence turning portion along a second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction" does not mean that the first introduction direction and the second introduction direction are limited to being completely 180° apart, but rather that a difference (preferably an angle of 135° or more) is provided between the first and second introduction directions to an extent that the second fluid can be introduced into the confluence turning portion from the side opposite the first fluid introduction portion.

[0010] The second fluid introduction channel is preferably connected to the confluence turning portion so as to cause the first and second fluids introduced from the first fluid introduction portion to collide with each other, which allows the first and second fluids to collide with each other at a high relative velocity (velocities in opposite directions), thereby allowing the first and second fluids to flow through the mixing portion while being mixed with each other with high efficiency.

[0011] Specifically, it is preferable that at least a part (preferably the entirety) of the outlet of the second fluid introduction channel overlaps with the outlet of the first fluid introduction section when viewed in the second introduction direction, which makes it possible for the second fluid introduced into the confluence turning section through the second fluid introduction channel to reliably collide with the first fluid introduced into the confluence turning section through the first fluid introduction section.

[0012] The second fluid introduction channel preferably has a channel cross-sectional area smaller than the channel cross-sectional areas of the first fluid introduction section and the mixed fluid discharge section. This allows the second fluid to be introduced into the confluence turn section at a high velocity, thereby further increasing the relative velocity of the first and second fluids colliding with each other. Moreover, as described above, the second fluid introduction channel only needs to introduce the second fluid into the confluence turn section, which is a turn section of the main channel, and does not require a large channel length. Therefore, even if the cross-sectional area of ​​the second fluid introduction channel is small, the resulting pressure loss and risk of clogging are low. Furthermore, even if clogging does occur, maintenance of the second fluid introduction channel is easy. In this way, the fluid mixer allows the first fluid and the second fluid to be efficiently mixed while reducing the risk of pressure loss and clogging.

[0013] The first inlet direction, the outlet direction, and the second inlet direction are preferably parallel to a common mixing channel plane, which allows both the introduction of the first fluid and the discharge of the mixed fluid to be performed with a compact structure.

[0014] In this aspect, the mixing section is preferably formed to advance mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid while reciprocating the mixed fluid along the mixing channel surface. This makes it possible to ensure, with a compact structure along the common mixing channel surface, a channel length (length of the mixing section) sufficient to join the first and second fluids with each other and advance mixing of the first and second fluids after joining (for example, in the case of a reactor, ensuring sufficient time for the reaction between the first and second fluids to advance).

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

[0016] More specifically, the mixing section preferably includes a plurality of first turning sections arranged on one side of a reciprocating direction in which the mixed fluid reciprocates and at least one second turning section arranged on the other side of the reciprocating direction, the plurality of first turning sections and the at least one second turning section being formed to turn the mixed fluid back and forth, the at least one second turning section being arranged together with the confluence turning section in a turning section arrangement direction perpendicular to the reciprocating direction, and the plurality of first turning sections being arranged on the opposite side of the reciprocating direction from the at least one second turning section, thereby enabling the reciprocating flow of the mixed fluid in the reciprocating direction to be achieved with a compact structure.

[0017] The confluence turning portion is preferably formed to cause the first fluid and the second fluid to flow in a confluence turning direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface, such that the first and second fluids can be smoothly turned back to the mixed fluid outlet portion while flowing in the direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface, i.e., the direction perpendicular to the first introduction direction.

[0018] Furthermore, when the mixing section includes a plurality of first turning sections and the at least one second turning section, it is preferable that the at least one second turning section is formed to make the mixed fluid flow in a second turning direction parallel to the confluence turning direction, and each of the plurality of first turning sections is formed to make the mixed fluid flow in a first turning direction opposite to each of the confluence turning direction and the second turning direction. The confluence turning section and the first and second turning sections formed in this manner enable the mixed fluid to proceed in a spiral-like path along the mixing channel surface.

[0019] Preferably, the flow path forming body includes a main body portion in which at least a reciprocating flow path portion of the main flow path is formed, and an inlet-side closure member in which the second fluid introduction flow path is formed, the reciprocating flow path portion being a portion that causes the mixed fluid to reciprocate between the confluence turning portion and the at least one second turning portion and the plurality of first turning portions, the main body portion including turning surfaces that define the confluence turning portion and the at least one second turning portion of each of the plurality of mixing flow paths, and the inlet-side closure member being detachably attached to the main body portion so as to close the turning surfaces to establish the plurality of mixing flow paths. The inlet-side closure member is attached to the main body portion to establish the plurality of mixing flow paths, and is detachable from the main body portion to open the turning surfaces, thereby enabling easy maintenance of both the reciprocating flow path portion connected to the turning surfaces and the second fluid introduction flow path formed in the inlet-side closure member.

[0020] Here, the "turn surface defining the confluence turning portion and the at least one second turning portion" may be a turning surface itself having a recess formed therein that defines at least a portion of the confluence turning portion and the second turning portion, or a turning surface having a recess formed in the introduction side closing member that defines the confluence turning portion and the second turning portion by opposing the recess.

[0021] In the former aspect, the folded surface has a recess that defines the confluence turn portion, and the inlet-side closing member preferably includes a closing member main body detachably coupled to the main body and a sealing member fixed to the closing member main body and that seals the confluence turn portion by coming into close contact with the folded surface around the recess while elastically deforming as the closing member main body is coupled to the main body, and a second fluid inlet hole that communicates with the recess and forms the second fluid inlet flow path.In the latter aspect, the inlet-side closing member preferably includes a closing member main body coupled to the main body and a sealing member that has the confluence turn portion, and the sealing member elastically deforms as the closing member main body is coupled to the main body and comes into close contact with the folded surface to seal the confluence turn portion between the closing member main body and the folded surface, and a second fluid inlet hole that communicates with the confluence turn portion and forms the second fluid inlet flow path. In both the former and latter embodiments, the confluence turning portion is reliably sealed by the tight contact between the sealing member and the turning surface, while allowing the second fluid to be introduced into the confluence turning portion through the second fluid introduction flow path.

[0022] Also provided is a fluid mixing system for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid while the first fluid is flowing, to mix the first and second fluids with each other, the fluid mixing system comprising the fluid mixer, a first fluid supply unit that supplies the first fluid to the first fluid inlet of the fluid mixer, and a second fluid supply unit that supplies the second fluid to the second fluid inlet channel of the fluid mixer.

[0023] Also provided is a fluid mixing method for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid while flowing the first fluid to mix the first and second fluids with each other, the fluid mixing method including: providing the fluid mixer; introducing the first fluid into the confluence turn section along the first introduction direction through the first fluid inlet; introducing the second fluid into the confluence turn section along the second introduction direction through the second fluid inlet channel to merge with the first fluid; and discharging the first fluid and the second fluid merged with the first fluid from the confluence turn section through the mixed fluid outlet. [Effects of the Invention]

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

[0025] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional front view of a fluid mixer according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fluid mixer according to a second embodiment of the present invention, viewed from below. [Figure 3] 3 is a front view showing a first mixing channel and a part of a second mixing channel among a plurality of mixing channels formed in the fluid mixer shown in FIG. 2.

[0023] FIG. [Figure 4] 3 is a cross-sectional plan view showing a second fluid introducing portion, which is a portion for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid in the fluid mixer shown in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 5] 5 is a view showing a plane taken along line VV in FIG. 4 rotated by 90 degrees. [Figure 6] 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a plane taken along line VI-VI in FIG. 4 rotated by 90 degrees. [Figure 7] 3 is a cross-sectional side view showing an example of a plurality of laminated plates that constitute the main body portion. FIG. [Figure 8]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional plan view showing a first modified example of the second fluid introduction portion. [Figure 9] 9 is a side view showing the outer surface of the gasket shown in FIG. 8, and is a view showing a plane taken along line IX-IX in FIG. 8 rotated 90 degrees. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional plan view showing a second modified example of the second fluid introduction portion. [Figure 11] 11 is a side view showing the outer surface of the gasket shown in FIG. 10, and is a view showing a plane taken along line XI-XI in FIG. 10 rotated 90 degrees. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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

[0027] FIG. 1 shows a fluid mixing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The fluid mixing system is for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid while the first fluid is flowing, thereby mixing the first and second fluids. Specific uses of the system are not limited. For example, the system is suitable for use as a reaction system for chemically reacting the first and second fluids with each other, or as a release system for releasing a specific substance contained in the first fluid into the second fluid. Each of the first and second fluids may be either a liquid or a gas. However, it is preferable that at least one of the first and second fluids is a liquid, and it is even more preferable that both the first and second fluids are liquids.

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

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

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

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

[0032] The mixing flow path 40 includes a main flow path and a second fluid introduction flow path 42. The main flow path includes a first fluid introduction section 41, a confluence turning section 43, and a mixing section 44, and the mixing section 44 includes a mixed fluid discharge section 46a.

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

[0034] The confluence turning section 43 is formed to allow the first fluid introduced into the confluence turning section 43 through the first fluid introduction section 41 to turn back together with the second fluid introduced into the confluence turning section 43 through the second fluid introduction flow path 42 and flow to the mixed fluid discharge section 46a.

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

[0036] The mixed fluid outlet 46a is connected to the confluence turn section 43 so as to allow the first fluid and the second fluid to flow out of the confluence turn section 43 in an outlet direction opposite to the first introduction direction. Here, the "outlet direction opposite to the first introduction direction" does not necessarily mean a direction that is completely 180° different from the first introduction direction, but may be a direction that is opposite to the first introduction direction to the extent that the direction of the first fluid is recognized to be reversed at the confluence turn section 43. The introduction direction along the mixed fluid outlet 46a shown in FIG. 1 is a direction away from the confluence turn section 43 (to the left in FIG. 1) and is slightly obliquely upward.

[0037] Therefore, the first introduction direction and the discharge direction in this embodiment are each parallel to the common mixing flow path plane (a vertical plane in Figure 1), thereby making it possible to both introduce the first fluid and discharge the mixed fluid with a compact structure.

[0038] The second fluid introduction flow path 42 has a flow path length shorter than the flow path lengths of the first fluid introduction portion 41 and the mixed fluid discharge portion 46a in the main flow path. The second fluid introduction flow path 42 is connected to the confluence turn portion 43 so as to introduce the second fluid supplied from the second fluid supply portion 20 into the confluence turn portion 43 along a second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction and to merge with the first fluid introduced from the first fluid introduction portion.

[0039] Here, "introducing the second fluid into the confluence turning portion along a second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction" does not mean that the first introduction direction and the second introduction direction are limited to a direction that differs by exactly 180°, but rather it is sufficient that a difference (preferably an angle of 135° or more) is provided between the first and second introduction directions to the extent that the second fluid is introduced into the confluence turning portion 43 from the side opposite to the first fluid introduction portion 41 (the left side in FIG. 1). In the example shown in FIG. 1, the second introduction direction is a horizontal direction opposite to the first introduction direction (the horizontal left direction in FIG. 1), and the angle formed between the second introduction direction and the first introduction direction is an obtuse angle close to 180°.

[0040] The second fluid introduction flow path 42 according to this embodiment is connected to the confluence turn portion 43 so as to cause the first fluid and the second fluid introduced from the first fluid introduction portion 41 to collide with each other. Specifically, when viewed in a direction along the second introduction direction (leftward in FIG. 1 ), at least a part (preferably the entirety) of the outlet (left end opening in FIG. 1 ) of the second fluid introduction flow path 42 overlaps with the outlet (right end opening in FIG. 1 ) of the first fluid introduction portion 41. This makes it possible for the second fluid introduced into the confluence turn portion 43 through the second fluid introduction flow path 42 to reliably collide with the first fluid introduced into the confluence turn portion 43 through the first fluid introduction portion 41.

[0041] Furthermore, the second fluid introduction flow path 42 according to this embodiment has a flow path cross-sectional area smaller than the flow path cross-sectional areas of the first fluid introduction portion 41 and the mixed fluid discharge portion 46a, respectively, and enables the second fluid to be introduced into the confluence turn portion 43 at a relatively high speed.

[0042] The mixing section 44 is formed to advance mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid while moving the mixed fluid back and forth along the mixing channel surface. Specifically, the mixing section 44 includes a plurality of first turning sections 45A, a second turning section 45B, and a reciprocating channel section 46.

[0043] The plurality of first turning portions 45A are two first turning portions 45A in the example shown in FIG. 1, and are arranged on one side in the reciprocating direction (the left side in FIG. 1). The reciprocating direction is the direction in which the mixed fluid reciprocates, which is the left-right direction in FIG. 1. The second turning portion 45B is arranged on the other side in the reciprocating direction (the right side in FIG. 1) together with the confluence turning portion 43. Each of the first and second turning portions 45A, 45B is formed to turn the mixed fluid back in the reciprocating direction, that is, to reverse the flow direction of the mixed fluid, similar to the confluence turning portion 43.

[0044] The second turning portion 45B is arranged along the turning portion arrangement direction together with the converging turning portion 43, and the plurality of first turning portions 45A are arranged along the turning portion arrangement direction together with the converging turning portion 43 on the side opposite to the second turning portion 45B in the reciprocating direction (the right side in FIG. 1). The turning portion arrangement direction is a direction perpendicular to the reciprocating direction and parallel to the mixing channel surface, which is the up-and-down direction in FIG.

[0045] The plurality of first turning portions 45A may be three or more first turning portions 45A arranged in the turning portion arrangement direction. Similarly, the second turning portion 45B may be replaced with a plurality of second turning portions 45B arranged in the turning portion arrangement direction together with the confluence turning portion 43. In other words, the number of times the mixture flows back and forth in the mixer 44 may be increased.

[0046] The reciprocating flow path section 46 is a section that causes the mixed fluid to reciprocate between the confluence turn section 43, the second turn section 45B, and the plurality of first turn sections. The reciprocating flow path section 46 shown in FIG. 1 includes the mixed fluid outlet section 46a, a first flow path section 46b, a second flow path section 46c, and a third flow path section 46d. The mixed fluid outlet section 46a extends in the outlet direction and connects the confluence turn section 43 and the lowest first turn section 45A of the plurality of first turn sections 45A. The lowest first turn section 45A is located slightly higher than the confluence turn section 43. The first to third flow path sections 46b to 46d form a reciprocating flow path that causes the mixed fluid to reciprocate in the reciprocating direction. The reciprocating flow path develops upward while reciprocating in the reciprocating direction so that the mixed fluid passes from the lowest first turning portion 45A through the second turning portion 45B and the uppermost first turning portion 45A of the plurality of first turning portions 45A in this order to reach the mixed fluid discharge flow path 48. It is preferable that the mixed fluid outlet portion 46a and the first to third flow path portions 46b to 46d are linear, which makes it possible to suppress flow path resistance.

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

[0048] The main body 32 defines the first fluid introduction portion 41, the confluence turn portion 43, and the mixing portion 44 of each of the multiple mixing channels 40. That is, the first fluid introduction portion 41, the confluence turn portion 43, and the mixing portion 44 of each of the multiple mixing channels 40 are formed in the main body 32. The main body 32 has both side surfaces in the reciprocating direction, i.e., a first side surface 32a and a second side surface 32b. In the first side surface 32a, recesses defining the multiple first turn portions 45A each open outward (toward the left in FIG. 1 ), and in the second side surface 32b, recesses defining the confluence turn portion 43 and the second turn portion 45B each open outward (to the right in FIG. 1 ). The main body 32 may be formed of a single block-shaped member, or may be formed of multiple members, for example, multiple laminated plates stacked on top of each other in the arrangement direction.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0055] Meanwhile, the second fluid supply unit 20 supplies the second fluid to the second fluid introduction channel 42 of the fluid mixer 30. The second fluid introduction channel 42 allows the second fluid to be introduced in a second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction of the first fluid introduced into the confluence turn unit 43 as described above, thereby merging the first and second fluids with each other. The introduction of the second fluid and the resulting merging of the second fluid with the first fluid allows the first and second fluids to be mixed with each other with high efficiency and then discharged from the confluence turn unit 43 to the mixed fluid discharge unit 46a.

[0056] Furthermore, the second fluid introduction channel 42 according to this embodiment introduces the second fluid into the confluence turn section 43 so as to cause the first and second fluids introduced from the first fluid introduction section 41 to collide with each other, thereby dramatically improving the mixing efficiency of the first and second fluids. In particular, the second fluid introduction channel 42 according to this embodiment has a channel cross-sectional area smaller than the cross-sectional areas (channel cross-sectional areas) of the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet section 46a. This allows the second fluid to be introduced into the confluence turn section at a high velocity, thereby further increasing the relative velocity of the first and second fluids colliding with each other as described above. Moreover, the second fluid introduction channel 42 only needs to introduce the second fluid midway through the main channel relative to the first fluid flowing through the main channel, and therefore does not require a long channel length. Therefore, the small channel cross-sectional area of ​​the second fluid introduction channel results in little pressure loss and a low risk of clogging. In this way, the fluid mixer 30 enables the first and second fluids to be efficiently mixed while minimizing pressure loss and the risk of clogging.

[0057] The mixing section 44 including the mixed fluid outlet portion 46a advances the mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid while reciprocating the mixed fluid along the mixing channel surface, and therefore can have a compact structure along the common mixing channel surface and a channel length sufficient to advance the mixing of the first and second fluids after the joining. This makes it possible to ensure sufficient time for the reaction between the first and second fluids to advance when the fluid mixer 30 is, for example, a reactor.

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

[0059] 2 shows a fluid mixing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Similar to the fluid mixing system according to the first embodiment, this fluid mixing system includes a first fluid supply unit 10, a second fluid supply unit 20, and a fluid mixer 30A, and introduces a second fluid into a first fluid while the first fluid is flowing, thereby mixing the first and second fluids with each other. There are no limitations on the specific use of the system.

[0060] The fluid mixer 30A includes a flow path former as shown in FIGS. 3 to 6, and multiple mixing paths are formed in the flow path former. The multiple mixing paths are specifically a total of four mixing paths, namely, first mixing path 40A, second mixing path 40B, third mixing path 40C, and fourth mixing path 40D as shown in FIG. 5. Each of the first to fourth mixing paths 40A to 40D extends along a common mixing path plane. The mixing path plane is a vertical plane (a plane parallel to the paper surface of FIG. 3) in the usage position shown in FIG. 3.

[0061] Of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D, the first and second mixing channels 40A, 40B are arranged with offset positions relative to each other in the channel development direction along the mixing channel surface (the up-down direction in FIGS. 3 and 5), and similarly, the third and fourth mixing channels 40C, 40D are arranged with offset positions relative to each other in the channel development direction. Furthermore, the first and third mixing channels 40A, 40C are arranged in an arrangement direction corresponding to a direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface (the depth direction in FIG. 3, the left-right direction in FIG. 5), and similarly, the second and fourth mixing channels 40B, 40D are arranged in the arrangement direction.

[0062] In other words, the four mixing channels 40A to 40D according to this embodiment are arranged in both the channel development direction and the arrangement direction (i.e., vertically and horizontally), which are orthogonal to each other. Of these, it is possible to further increase the number of multiple mixing channels arranged in the arrangement direction (to three or more), thereby increasing the total number of the multiple mixing channels to six or more.

[0063] Since the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D have the same shapes, some of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D are not shown in Fig. 3. Specifically, to avoid complicating the drawing, only the first mixing channel 40A of the four mixing channels 40A to 40D and a small part of the second mixing channel 40B are shown in Fig. 3.

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

[0065] Similar to the confluence turning section 43 according to the first embodiment, the confluence turning section 43 is formed to allow the first fluid introduced into the confluence turning section 43 through the first fluid inlet 41 to turn back together with the second fluid introduced into the confluence turning section 43 through the second fluid inlet channel 42 and flow to the mixed fluid outlet 46a, but further has a shape that allows the first and second fluids to flow in a confluence turning direction, specifically a shape that extends in the confluence turning direction. The confluence turning direction is a direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface (a horizontal direction parallel to the arrangement direction), a direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 3, a bottom-to-top direction in FIG. 4, a cross-sectional plan view, and a left-to-right direction in FIG. 5, a side view.

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

[0067] Similar to the mixed fluid outlet 46a according to the first embodiment, the mixed fluid outlet 46a is connected to the confluence turn section 43 so as to allow the first fluid and the second fluid to flow out of the confluence turn section 43 in an outlet direction opposite to the first introduction direction. Similar to the first embodiment, the first introduction direction and the outlet direction are each parallel to the common mixing channel surface (a vertical plane in FIG. 1 ). However, because the confluence turn section 43 extends in the confluence turn direction and the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet 46a are connected to the inlet and outlet of the confluence turn section 43, the positions of the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet 46a are shifted in the confluence turn direction by the length of the confluence turn section 43 (that is, in a direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface and parallel to the arrangement direction).

[0068] The mixing section 44 is formed to expand in the flow path expansion direction (upward in FIG. 3 ) while moving the mixed fluid back and forth along the mixing flow path surface, thereby progressing the mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid, and specifically includes a plurality of first turning sections 45A, a plurality of second turning sections 45B, and a reciprocating flow path section 46.

[0069] The plurality of first turning sections 45A are arranged in a turning section arrangement direction on one side (left side in FIG. 3) of the reciprocating direction (left-right direction in FIG. 3) in which the mixed fluid reciprocates. The plurality of second turning sections 45B are arranged in the turning section arrangement direction on the other side (right side in FIG. 3) of the reciprocating direction. The turning section arrangement direction is a direction perpendicular to the reciprocating direction and parallel to the mixing channel surface, and is the up-down direction in the attitudes shown in FIGS. 3 and 5. Each of the plurality of first turning sections 45A and the plurality of second turning sections 45B is formed, similarly to the confluence turning section 43, to turn the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing section 44 back in the reciprocating direction, that is, to reverse the flow direction of the mixed fluid.

[0070] The reciprocating flow path section 46 is a section that causes the mixed fluid to reciprocate between the confluence turn section 43 and the second turn section 45B arranged on one side of the reciprocating direction and the plurality of first turn sections arranged on the other side. The reciprocating flow path section 46 includes the mixed fluid outlet section 46a and a section that develops in the flow path development direction (upward) downstream of the mixed fluid outlet section 46a between the plurality of first turn sections 45A and the plurality of second turn sections 45B while causing the fluid to reciprocate in the reciprocating direction.

[0071] Each of the second turning portions 45B extends in a second turning direction parallel to the confluence turning direction, similar to the confluence turning portion 43. In contrast, each of the first turning portions 45A extends in a first turning direction opposite to the confluence turning direction and the second turning direction (a direction from bottom to top in FIG. 4 and a direction from right to left in FIG. 5).

[0072] The confluence turning portion 43 and the plurality of first and second turning portions 45A, 45B formed in this manner enable the mixed fluid to ascend in the first and second turning directions along the mixing channel surface in a flattened spiral shape (an elongated rectangle with the first and second turning portions 45A, 45B as short sides when viewed from above). Here, the first and second mixing channels 40A, 40B form a so-called double spiral in which the flattened spirals are shifted from each other by a half pitch in the vertical direction. Similarly, the third and fourth mixing channels 40C, 40D form a so-called double spiral in which the flattened spirals are shifted from each other by a half pitch in the vertical direction and are positioned away from the first and second mixing channels 40A, 40B in the arrangement direction (to the right in FIG. 5 ). In other words, a pair of flow paths consisting of the first and second mixing flow paths 40A, 40B and a pair of flow paths consisting of the third and fourth mixing flow paths 40C, 40D are arranged in the arrangement direction, and each pair of flow paths forms a so-called double helix.

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

[0074] The main flow paths of the first to fourth mixing flow paths 40A to 40D, i.e., the first fluid introduction portion 41, the confluence turn portion 43, and the mixing portion 44, are formed in the main body portion 32. The main body portion 32 has both side surfaces in the reciprocating direction, i.e., a first side surface 32a and a second side surface 32b, and on the first side surface 32a, recesses that define the plurality of first turn portions 45A are each open outward (toward the left in FIG. 1), and on the second side surface 32b, recesses that define the confluence turn portion 43 and the plurality of second turn portions 45B are each open outward (toward the right in FIG. 1).

[0075] 5 is a side view showing the second side surface 32b. On the second side surface 32b, a plurality of turn-back portions are arranged in two rows (two rows on the left and right) in the arrangement direction in the flow path development direction (the turn-back portion arrangement direction; the up-down direction in FIG. 5).

[0076] 5, of the plurality of turning portions on the left side, the lowest turning portion is the confluence turning portion 43 of the first mixing channel 40A, the second turning portion from the bottom is the confluence turning portion 43 of the second mixing channel 40B, the (2n+1)-th turning portion (n is a natural number, the same applies below) from the bottom is the second turning portion 45B of the first mixing channel 40A, and the (2n+2)-th turning portion from the bottom is the second turning portion 45B of the second mixing channel 40B. The plurality of first turning portions 45A of the first mixing channel 40A are located at a height position equivalent to the heights of the confluence turning portion 43 and the plurality of second turning portions 45B of the second mixing channel 40B, on the opposite side (the back side in FIG. 5) from the confluence turning portion 43 and the plurality of second turning portions 45B in the reciprocating direction. The plurality of first turning portions 45A of the second mixing channel 40B are located on the opposite side to the plurality of second turning portions 45B at the same height as the respective plurality of second turning portions 45B of the first mixing channel 40A.

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

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

[0079] The plurality of laminate plates can suitably define the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D by stacking laminate plates 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36E, 36F, 36G, and 36H in this order, for example, as shown in Fig. 7. In Fig. 7, grooves that form the left halves of the first and second mixing channels 40A and 40B are formed on the right side surfaces of the laminate plates 36A and 36C, and grooves that form the right halves of the first and second mixing channels 40A and 40B are formed on the left side surfaces of the laminate plates 36B and 36D adjacent to the laminate plates 36A and 36C, respectively. Similarly, grooves that form the left halves of the third and fourth mixing flow paths 40C and 40D are formed on the right side surfaces of the laminate plates 36E and 36G, and grooves that form the right halves of the third and fourth mixing flow paths 40C and 40D are formed on the left side surfaces of the laminate plates 36F and 36H that are adjacent to the laminate plates 36E and 36G, respectively.

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

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

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

[0083] The second closing member 34B includes a closing member body 50, a gasket 52, and a sealing material 54 as shown in Figures 4 to 6, in order to seal the confluence turn portion 43 and the multiple second turn portions 45B and form the second fluid introduction flow path 42 for each of the first to fourth mixing flow paths 40A to 40D.

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

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

[0086] The gasket 52 is a sealing member that seals the recesses by elastically compressing and deforming in the fastening direction (left-right direction in FIG. 4) as the closing member main body 50 is fastened to the main body portion 32 by the fasteners 31 and by its elastic force coming into close contact with the second side surface 32b around the recesses, thereby forming the confluence folded portion 43 and the second folded portions 45B corresponding to the recesses. The sealing member may be a single member with a large area that can cover the recesses collectively, as in the gasket 52 shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, or may be divided into multiple portions that cover the recesses individually.

[0087] The sealing material 54 is an endless member (in the figure, a substantially rectangular frame shape) made of an elastically deformable material such as rubber, and is fixed to the opposing surface 51 in the same manner as the gasket 52 so as to surround the entire periphery of the gasket 52. As the closing member main body 50 is fastened to the main body portion 32 by the fasteners 31, the sealing material 54 elastically compresses and deforms in the fastening direction, thereby closely contacting the second side surface 32b around the gasket 52, thereby further improving the sealing performance at the second side surface 32b. The sealing material 54 may be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, in order to improve the sealing performance of the first folded portions 45A, the first closing member 34A preferably includes a sealing material that can elastically deform in the same manner as the gasket 52 and the sealing material 54 and closely contact the first side surface 32a.

[0088] In this embodiment, the second fluid introduction flow path 42 of each of the first to fourth mixing flow paths 40A to 40D is formed in the gasket 52, which is the contact member. Specifically, four second fluid introduction holes corresponding to the first fluid introduction portions 41 of the first to fourth mixing flow paths 40A to 40D are formed in the gasket 52 so as to penetrate the gasket 52 in its thickness direction, i.e., in a direction parallel to the second introduction direction, and these four second fluid introduction holes constitute the second fluid introduction flow path 42 of the first to fourth mixing flow paths 40A to 40D, respectively. In this manner, the second fluid introduction holes constituting the second fluid introduction flow path 42 are linear flow paths having a flow path length (in this embodiment, a length corresponding to the thickness of the gasket 52) ​​shorter than the flow path lengths of the first fluid introduction portion 41 and the mixed fluid outlet portion 46a of the main flow path, and preferably have a flow path cross-sectional area smaller than the flow path cross-sectional areas of the first fluid introduction portion 41 and the mixed fluid outlet portion 46a.

[0089] Furthermore, each of the second fluid introduction flow paths 42 in this embodiment is connected to the confluence turning portion 43 so that the two fluids supplied from the second fluid supply portion 20 are introduced into the confluence turning portion 43 along a second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction, and collide with the first fluid introduced from the first fluid introduction portion.

[0090] Specifically, similar to the second fluid introduction flow path 42 according to the first embodiment, each of the second fluid introduction flow paths 42 is disposed such that, as viewed in the direction along the second introduction direction, at least a part (preferably the entirety) of the outlet of the second fluid introduction flow path 42 overlaps with the outlet (the right end opening in FIG. 4 ) of the first fluid introduction section 41 corresponding to the second fluid introduction flow path 42. For example, the outlets (the left end openings connected to the confluence turnback section 43 in FIG. 4 ) of the second fluid introduction flow paths 42 belonging to the first and third mixing flow paths 40A and 40C, respectively, shown in FIG. 4 face, over their entire areas, in the second introduction direction (the left direction in FIG. 4 ) with the outlets (the right end openings connected to the confluence turnback section 43 in FIG. 4 ) of the first fluid introduction sections 41 belonging to the first and third mixing flow paths 40A and 40C, respectively.

[0091] Meanwhile, a plurality of second fluid supply holes 56 are formed inside the closing member main body 50, and a second fluid distributor 22 is attached to the closing member main body 50. The plurality of second fluid supply holes 56 are formed to extend in the second introduction direction at positions connecting to each of the plurality (four in this embodiment) second fluid introduction flow paths 42. The second fluid distributor 22 is disposed to connect to each of the plurality of second fluid supply holes 56, and is connected to the second fluid supply unit 20 to distribute the second fluid supplied from the second fluid supply unit 20 to the plurality of second fluid supply holes 56.

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

[0093] 8 and 9, as a first modified example, instead of the multiple second fluid supply holes 56, a single second fluid supply hole 57 having a large flow path cross-sectional area that can be commonly connected to each of the second fluid introduction flow paths 42 of the first to fourth mixing flow paths 40A to 40D may be formed in the closing member main body 50. However, in this first modified example, the larger the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the second fluid supply hole 57, the smaller the area in which the gasket 52 comes into contact with the second side surface (folded surface) 32b, which may result in a corresponding decrease in sealing performance. Conversely, forming the multiple second fluid supply holes 56 corresponding to each of the second fluid introduction flow paths 42 as shown in FIGS. 4 to 6 allows the gasket 52 to contact the second side surface 32b over a sufficient area to ensure high sealing performance, while also allowing the second fluid to be reliably supplied to each of the second fluid introduction flow paths 42 through the multiple second fluid supply holes 56.

[0094] Next, the operation of this fluid mixing system will be described.

[0095] The first fluid supply unit 10 supplies the first fluid to the first fluid distributor 12 attached to the first closing member 34A of the fluid mixer 30A. The first fluid supplied in this manner is distributed to a plurality of first fluid supply ports 47 corresponding to the first to fourth mixing flow paths 40A to 40D, respectively. The first fluid introduction units 41 of the first to fourth mixing flow paths 40A to 40D, which are connected to the plurality of first fluid supply ports 47, respectively, guide the first fluid in the first introduction direction along the first fluid introduction unit 41, enabling the first fluid to be introduced into the confluence turning unit 43 in the first introduction direction.

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

[0097] Furthermore, the second fluid introduction flow path 42 according to this embodiment can cause the second fluid to collide at a high relative velocity (opposite velocities) with the first fluid introduced into the confluence turn portion 43 through the first fluid introduction portion 41 in the first introduction direction opposite to the second introduction direction. This allows the first and second fluids to be mixed with each other with higher efficiency and then discharged from the confluence turn portion 43 to the mixed fluid discharge portion 46a. The mixed fluid thus discharged to the mixed fluid discharge portion 46a flows through the mixing portion 44 including the mixed fluid discharge portion 46a, thereby promoting mixing of the first and second fluids in the mixed fluid and, for example, promoting a chemical reaction between the first and second fluids due to the mixing.

[0098] Furthermore, the confluence turning section 43 according to the second embodiment is formed to make the first fluid and the second fluid flow in a confluence turning direction (upward in FIG. 4 and rightward in FIG. 5) perpendicular to the mixing flow channel surface, each of the plurality of second turning sections 45B is formed to make the mixed fluid flow in a second turning direction parallel to the confluence turning direction, and each of the plurality of first turning sections 45A is formed to make the mixed fluid flow in a first turning direction opposite to each of the confluence turning direction and the second turning direction, thereby enabling the mixed fluid to be smoothly turned back while flowing in a direction perpendicular to the mixing flow channel surface, i.e., a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the mixed fluid moves back and forth. Moreover, since the first turning direction and the second turning direction are opposite to each other, it is possible for the mixed fluid to proceed in the flow path development direction (upward in FIG. 3) along a path shaped like a spiral (a substantially rectangular path with each of the turning portions 43, 45A, 45B as a short side when viewed from above) while following the mixing flow path surface.

[0099] Furthermore, in the fluid mixer 30, the multiple mixing channels 40 can be compactly arranged along an arrangement direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface, which allows a larger number of first and second fluids to be mixed within a limited space.

[0100] On the other hand, in the fluid mixer 30A, the first and second closing members 34A, 34B can be detached from the main body 32 in which the main flow path is formed, thereby opening the first and second side surfaces 32b, 32b, respectively, thereby facilitating maintenance of both the main flow path connected to the first and second side surfaces 32a, 32b and the second fluid introduction flow path 42 formed in the second closing member.

[0101] Furthermore, the second fluid introduction passage 42 is configured by a second fluid introduction hole formed in the sealing member for performing the sealing, i.e., the gasket 52, which seals the confluence turn portion 43 by elastically deforming and adhering to the second side surface 32b, thereby enabling the second fluid to be introduced into the confluence turn portion 43 at high speed while reliably sealing the confluence turn portion 43 due to the close contact between the gasket 52 and the second side surface 32b.

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

[0103] An example of this is shown in Figures 10 and 11 as a second modified example. A gasket 52, which is a closing member according to this modified example, is fixed to the opposing surface 51 of the closing member main body 50, similar to the gasket 52 shown in Figure 4. However, instead of the second fluid introduction channel 42, the gasket 52 has a plurality of through holes formed therein corresponding to the respective confluence turning portions 43 of the first to fourth mixing channels 40A to 40D. Each of the plurality of through holes has a shape corresponding to the shape of the confluence turning portion 43, i.e., a rectangular shape elongated in the confluence turning direction (upward in Figure 10, rightward in Figure 11) in this modified example. The gasket 52 comes into close contact with the second side surface 32b as the closing member main body 50 is fastened to the main body 32, thereby defining the confluence turning portion 43, which is sealed between the second side surface 32b and the opposing surface 51.

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

[0105] 10, the opposing surface 51 may be a simple flat surface, but preferably has a recess 58 into which the gasket 52 is fitted to position the gasket 52 relative to the closure member body 50. Fitting the gasket 52 into the recess 58 makes it possible to provide the gasket 52 with a sufficient thickness for forming the confluence turned portion 43 while keeping the gap between the opposing surface 51 and the second side surface 32b, which is the turned surface, small, and also makes it possible to stabilize the relative position of the confluence turned portion 43 formed in the gasket 52 and the second fluid introduction flow path 42 formed in the closure member body 50.

[0106] On the other hand, the closing member main body 50 is formed with a plurality of second fluid introduction holes (four in this modified example) that are connected to each of the confluence turning portions 43, and the plurality of second fluid introduction holes respectively constitute second fluid introduction flow paths 42 of the first to fourth mixing flow paths 40A to 40D. A second fluid distributor 22 similar to the second fluid distributor 22 according to the second embodiment is attached to the closing member main body 50, and the second fluid distributor 22 is arranged to be directly connected to each of the second fluid introduction flow paths 42 and to distribute the second fluid directly to the second fluid introduction flow paths 42.

[0107] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and its modifications. The present invention includes, for example, the following aspects.

[0108] (a) The position where the second fluid is introduced into the confluence and turnaround The position at which the second fluid is introduced into the confluence turning portion through the second fluid introduction channel according to the present invention is not limited to a position at which the second fluid collides with the first fluid and can be changed as appropriate depending on the specifications. For example, the second fluid introduction channel 42 shown in FIG. 4 may be provided at a position indicated by a two-dot chain line 42A or 42B in FIG. 4 instead of a position facing the outlet of the first fluid introduction section 41 as indicated by a solid line in FIG. 4, i.e., a position at which the first and second fluids collide with each other. The position indicated by the two-dot chain line 42A is a position between the first fluid introduction section 41 and the mixed fluid outlet section 46a (an intermediate position in the confluence turning direction). The second fluid introduction channel 42 provided at this position allows the second fluid to be introduced in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction (confluence turning direction) of the first fluid flowing from the outlet of the first fluid introduction section 41 toward the inlet of the mixed fluid outlet section 46a in the confluence turning direction (upward in FIG. 4). The position indicated by the two-dot chain line 42B is a position where the second fluid introduction flow path 42 faces the inlet of the mixed fluid discharge portion 46a (a position facing the downstream end of the confluence turnback portion 43), and the second fluid introduction flow path 42 provided at this position enables the second fluid to be introduced in the same direction as the first fluid flowing from the confluence turnback portion 43 into the mixed fluid discharge portion 46a and to merge with the first fluid.

[0109] (b) Merging and turning back sections The confluence turn section according to the present invention is not limited in its specific shape as long as it allows the first fluid introduced into the confluence turn section through the first fluid inlet channel to turn back together with the second fluid introduced into the confluence turn section through the second fluid inlet channel and flow into the mixed fluid outlet channel. The confluence turn section may have, for example, the minimum cross-sectional area required to connect the outlet of the first fluid inlet channel to the inlet of the mixed fluid outlet channel. However, confluence turn section 43 shown in FIG. 4 and other figures, which has a shape extending in a confluence turn direction perpendicular to the mixing channel plane so as to allow the first and second fluids to flow in the confluence turn direction, has the advantage of allowing the first fluid to be smoothly turned back from the first fluid inlet channel to the mixed fluid outlet channel through the confluence turn section. Furthermore, as described above in the section “(a) Regarding the Introduction Position of the Second Fluid into the Confluence Turn Section,” it also has the advantage of providing greater flexibility in the position at which the second fluid is introduced into the confluence turn section. These advantages also apply to the first turning section and the second turning section in the case where the mixing section includes the first turning section and the second turning section.

[0110] (c) Mixing section The specific shape of the mixing section according to the present invention is not limited. The mixing section may have a flow path length sufficient to sufficiently promote mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid. For example, the mixing section may extend long in one specific direction or meander in any direction. However, a mixing section formed to promote mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid by moving the mixed fluid back and forth along a common mixing flow path surface together with the first fluid inlet and the mixed fluid outlet, as in the mixing section 44 according to the first and second embodiments, has the advantage of being compact in structure and ensuring a flow path length (length of the mixing section) sufficient to not only merge the first and second fluids but also promote mixing of the first and second fluids after the merger (for example, in the case of a reactor, ensuring sufficient time for the reaction between the first and second fluids to proceed). Furthermore, since a sufficient mixing effect can be obtained by the confluence of the first fluid and the second fluid at the confluence turning section, the respective round-trip flow paths connecting the first turning section and the second turning section downstream thereof do not need to have complex shapes to promote mixing, and it is possible to reduce the risk of increased flow path resistance and blockage by making the round-trip flow paths linear, for example, as shown in Figures 1 and 3.

[0111] (d) For each direction The first and second introduction directions according to the present invention can be arbitrarily set as long as they are opposite to each other. For example, the mixing channel surface may be a horizontal plane, and the first and second introduction directions may be horizontal. In this case, the channel development direction of the mixing section may also be horizontal, and multiple mixing channels may be arranged in a vertical direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface, thereby enabling mixing of many first and second fluids in a compact structure. Alternatively, the mixed fluid outlet may be disposed below the first fluid inlet, as opposed to the first fluid inlet 41 and mixed fluid outlet 46a shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, so that the mixing section develops downward. Furthermore, the channel development direction of the mixing section (direction of turn-back section arrangement) does not have to be a single direction. For example, the mixing section may be formed so that it turns back midway and develops in the opposite direction (for example, the mixing section 44 shown in FIG. 1 turns back at its upper end and develops downward at a position shifted horizontally). In either case, if the first introduction direction, the discharge direction, and the second introduction direction are directions along a common mixing flow channel surface, it becomes possible to compactly arrange multiple mixing flow channels, each including the main flow channel and the second fluid introduction flow channel, in a direction perpendicular to the mixing flow channel surface. [Explanation of symbols]

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

Claims

1. A fluid mixer for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid while the first fluid is flowing, thereby mixing the first fluid and the second fluid, a flow path former in which at least one mixing flow path is formed, the at least one mixing channel includes a main channel and a second fluid introduction channel; the main flow path includes a first fluid inlet portion, a confluence turn portion, and a mixing portion, the mixing portion including a mixed fluid outlet portion, the first fluid inlet portion connected to the confluence turn portion so as to allow the first fluid to be introduced into the confluence turn portion along a first introduction direction, the confluence turn portion allowing the first fluid introduced into the confluence turn portion through the first fluid inlet portion to turn back together with the second fluid introduced into the confluence turn portion through the second fluid introduction flow path and flow to the mixed fluid outlet portion, the mixing portion is formed so as to allow the first fluid and the second fluid introduced into the confluence turn portion to flow as a mixed fluid while being mixed with each other, and the mixed fluid outlet portion connected to the confluence turn portion so as to allow the first fluid and the second fluid to flow out of the confluence turn portion in an outlet direction opposite to the first introduction direction, the second fluid introduction flow path has a flow path length shorter than respective flow path lengths of the first fluid introduction portion and the mixed fluid discharge portion of the main flow path, and is in communication with the confluence turn portion so as to introduce the second fluid into the confluence turn portion along a second introduction direction opposite to the first introduction direction and to be merged with the first fluid, the second fluid introduction flow path is connected to the confluence turning portion so as to cause the first fluid and the second fluid introduced from the first fluid introduction portion to collide with each other; a fluid mixer in which an outlet of the second fluid introduction channel entirely overlaps with an outlet of the first fluid introduction portion when viewed in a direction along the second introduction direction.

2. 2. The fluid mixer according to claim 1, wherein the second fluid introduction channel has a channel cross-sectional area smaller than each of the channel cross-sectional areas of the first fluid introduction portion and the mixed fluid discharge portion of the main channel.

3. 2. The fluid mixer according to claim 1, wherein the first inlet direction, the outlet direction, and the second inlet direction are each parallel to a common mixing channel plane.

4. 4. The fluid mixer according to claim 3, wherein the at least one mixing channel includes a plurality of mixing channels, and the plurality of mixing channels are arranged along an arrangement direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface.

5. 4. The fluid mixer according to claim 3, wherein the mixing section is formed to cause mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid in the mixed fluid to progress while causing the mixed fluid to reciprocate along the mixing flow channel surface.

6. 6. The fluid mixer according to claim 5, wherein the mixing section includes a plurality of first turning sections arranged on one side in a reciprocating direction in which the mixed fluid reciprocates, and at least one second turning section arranged on the other side in the reciprocating direction, and the plurality of first turning sections and the at least one second turning section are arranged on the other side in the reciprocating direction. the fluid mixer is formed so as to turn back the mixed fluid in each of at least one second turning section, the at least one second turning section is arranged together with the confluence turning section along a turning section arranging direction perpendicular to the reciprocating direction, and the plurality of first turning sections are arranged along the turning section arranging direction on an opposite side in the reciprocating direction from the confluence turning section and the at least one second turning section.

7. 4. The fluid mixer according to claim 3, wherein the confluence turning portion is formed to cause the first fluid and the second fluid to flow in a confluence turning direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface.

8. 7. The fluid mixer according to claim 6, wherein the confluence turning section is formed to cause the first fluid and the second fluid to flow in a confluence turning direction perpendicular to the mixing channel surface, the at least one second turning section is formed to cause the mixed fluid to flow in a second turning direction parallel to the confluence turning direction, and each of the plurality of first turning sections is formed to cause the mixed fluid to flow in a first turning direction opposite to the second turning direction.

9. A fluid mixing system for introducing a second fluid into a first fluid while the first fluid is flowing, thereby mixing the first fluid and the second fluid with each other, comprising: A fluid mixer according to any one of claims 1 to 8; a first fluid supply unit that supplies the first fluid to the first fluid inlet of the fluid mixer; a second fluid supply unit that supplies the second fluid to the second fluid introduction channel of the fluid mixer.

10. A fluid mixing method for mixing a first fluid and a second fluid by introducing a second fluid into the first fluid while the first fluid is flowing, the method comprising: Providing a fluid mixer according to any one of claims 1 to 8; introducing the first fluid into the confluence turning portion along the first introduction direction through the first fluid introduction portion; the second fluid is introduced into the confluence turning portion through the second fluid introduction flow path along the second introduction direction, thereby causing the first fluid and the second fluid introduced from the first fluid introduction portion to collide with each other and merge into the first fluid; and discharging the first fluid and the second fluid merged with the first fluid as the mixed fluid from the confluence turning portion through the mixed fluid discharge portion.

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