Fluid Transfer Pump Device

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention relates to a fluid transfer pump device, and provides a fluid transfer pump device in which a plurality of components constituting the fluid transfer pump device form a stacked structure.An embodiment of the present invention relates to an electroosmotic pump, and provides an electroosmotic pump and a power supply device for the electroosmotic pump, each having a structure that allows easy connection to each other.An embodiment of the present invention relates to a fluid transfer device, and provides a fluid transfer device including an intake path and an exhaust path that can increase the fluid transfer efficiency and prevent blockage of the flow path.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid transfer pumping device, and more particularly to a fluid transfer pumping device for drug infusion. [Background technology]

[0002] Drugs can be injected into the body in various forms, such as oral, subcutaneous, or intravenous, depending on the type, purpose, and method of treatment. Drug injectors using drug pumps can automatically inject drugs into the body at a desired rate, volume, and time. Therefore, drug injectors using drug pumps can be used in a variety of ways, not just in hospitals and in patients' daily lives.

[0003] Insulin pumps, commonly known as insulin injectors, are medical devices for diabetics who do not secrete insulin or who secrete only small amounts of it. They act like the pancreas, supplying insulin to the body from the outside at precise times to regulate blood sugar levels.

[0004] Such insulin pumps are a technology used by patients with insulin-dependent diabetes, but insulin pump technology has problems requiring miniaturization and precision in administration, and much research is currently being conducted to solve these problems.

[0005] Metering pumps, which can be used in drug infusion devices such as insulin pumps, are pumps that transport a constant amount of liquid per unit time. Depending on their operating principle, they are divided into diaphragm pumps (membrane pumps), gear pumps, peristaltic pumps, syringe pumps, etc., and are used in a wide range of industrial fields.

[0006] The drug can be injected continuously or intermittently depending on the injection volume and injection rate. Accurate and stable drug injection is the most important factor for effective treatment and user safety.

[0007] In particular, in the case of insulin pumps, the main reason for inaccurate injection of medicinal liquid is that solid matter forms at the tip of the cannula, needle, catheter, etc. where the medicinal liquid is injected and where it comes into contact with body fluids, preventing the injection of the medicinal liquid.

[0008] Therefore, a device that can detect whether the drug solution is being injected accurately at the desired speed or in the desired amount is essential for safe and stable injection, and drug injection technology that fundamentally prevents such problems from occurring is important. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] A fluid transfer pump device according to an embodiment of the present invention is intended to increase the efficiency of fluid transfer and to detect blockage of a flow path.

[0010] Furthermore, the electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment of the present invention is intended to facilitate coupling to a power supply and to increase the contact area with the power supply.

[0011] Furthermore, the fluid transfer device according to the embodiment of the present invention is intended to increase the fluid transfer efficiency and reduce dead space for the fluid.

[0012] However, the technical problem that this embodiment aims to achieve is not limited to the above-mentioned technical problem, and other technical problems may exist. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] As a technical means for achieving the technical object, a fluid transfer pump device according to a first aspect of the present invention may include a pressure generating unit that electrochemically generates positive and negative pressure alternately, a first isolation unit coupled to one side of the pressure generating unit, a second isolation unit coupled to the other side of the pressure generating unit, and a transfer chamber unit coupled to the second isolation unit on the opposite side of the pressure generating unit.

[0014] In addition, in the fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment, the pressure generating unit, the first isolation unit, the second isolation unit, and the transfer chamber unit may be stacked in one direction and integrally coupled to each other.

[0015] In addition, according to the embodiment, the pressure generating unit, the first isolating unit, the second isolating unit, and the transfer chamber unit may be formed and aligned to have a rectangular cross-sectional contour shape in the stacking direction.

[0016] Furthermore, the pressure generating unit according to the embodiment can be configured as an electroosmotic pump.

[0017] Furthermore, the electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment may include a membrane that allows fluid movement, and a first electrode and a second electrode that are plate-shaped and stacked and bonded to both sides of the membrane, respectively.

[0018] In addition, the first separator according to the embodiment may include a first separator frame laminated and bonded to the pressure generating portion, and a flexible first separator bonded to the inside of the first separator frame to make the pressure generating portion airtight.

[0019] In addition, the first separator frame and the first separator according to the embodiment may be bonded using at least one of a thermal fusion method, a UV (Ultraviolet Ray) bonding method, and an ultrasonic fusion method.

[0020] Also, the fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment may further include a monitoring unit stacked and coupled to the first isolation unit on the opposite side of the pressure generating unit.

[0021] In addition, the monitoring unit according to the embodiment may include a monitoring chamber frame stacked and coupled to the first isolation part, a monitoring chamber formed inside the monitoring chamber frame, and a pressure sensor for measuring pressure in the monitoring chamber.

[0022] In addition, the monitoring chamber frame according to the embodiment may be formed with a pressure sensor connection port communicating with the monitoring chamber, and the pressure sensor may be inserted and fixed into the pressure sensor connection port.

[0023] In addition, the second isolation part according to the embodiment may include a second isolation frame laminated and coupled to the pressure generating part, and a flexible second isolation part coupled to the inside of the second isolation frame to make the pressure generating part airtight.

[0024] An electroosmotic pump according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a membrane that allows fluid movement, and a first electrode and a second electrode respectively provided on both sides of the membrane, where the membrane, the first electrode, and the second electrode are stacked and combined in a plate-like shape, and each of the first electrode and the second electrode includes an electrode portion corresponding to the membrane region and a terminal portion that is integrally extended and protruded from one aspect of the electrode portion.

[0025] Moreover, the terminal portion according to the embodiment is formed in a plate shape.

[0026] In addition, the electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment further includes a power supply unit connected to the terminal portion, and the power supply unit includes first and second connectors respectively coupled to the terminal portion, and a support body that fixes and supports the first and second connectors.

[0027] In addition, the first and second connectors according to the embodiment are fixed on the support at a predetermined interval that corresponds to the interval between the first and second electrodes, and the first and second connectors are slidingly coupled to the first and second electrodes, respectively.

[0028] Furthermore, the first and second connectors according to the embodiment each include a first leg portion and a second leg portion formed to elastically support both side surfaces of the terminal portion.

[0029] In addition, the first leg portion and the second leg portion according to the embodiment elastically support the terminal portion and include a bent portion formed to widen the gap on the side where the terminal portion is coupled.

[0030] The electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment further includes a third leg bent from at least one of the first leg and the second leg toward the terminal portion, expanding the contact surface with the terminal portion.

[0031] A fluid transfer device according to a third aspect of the present invention includes a flexible isolation material through which positive pressure and negative pressure are alternately transmitted, and a transfer chamber portion coupled to the flexible isolation material, the transfer chamber portion including a transfer chamber frame that defines the contour shape of the transfer chamber portion, and a transfer chamber formed concavely in the transfer chamber frame facing the flexible isolation material, through which the fluid to be transferred is input and output.

[0032] In addition, the transfer chamber according to the embodiment includes an upper portion that opens toward the separator and is airtight when the separator is bonded to it, a lower portion formed on the opposite side from the separator, and a peripheral portion formed between the upper portion and the lower portion.

[0033] In addition, according to an embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the top is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the bottom, and the periphery is formed to have an inclined surface.

[0034] In addition, in the fluid transfer device according to the embodiment, when a positive pressure acts on the transfer chamber through the separator, the separator deforms toward the bottom side in accordance with the shape of the inclined surface, thereby discharging the fluid to be transferred.

[0035] In addition, in the fluid transfer device according to the embodiment, when a negative pressure is applied to the transfer chamber through the separator, the separator deforms to the opposite side of the bottom to suck in the fluid to be transferred.

[0036] In addition, in the fluid transfer device according to the embodiment, an inlet through which the fluid to be transferred is input and an outlet through which the fluid to be transferred is output from the transfer chamber are formed on the peripheral surface.

[0037] In addition, the suction port and the discharge port according to the embodiment are formed to face each other on the peripheral surface.

[0038] The fluid transfer device according to the embodiment further includes an intake passage extending from the intake port and an outlet passage extending from the outlet port.

[0039] In addition, the suction passage and the discharge passage according to the embodiment are formed to be inclined outward from the suction port and the discharge port, respectively.

[0040] In addition, the cross-sectional area of ​​the suction passage and the discharge passage according to the embodiment increases as they move away from the transfer chamber. [Effects of the Invention]

[0041] The fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment of the present invention can improve the efficiency of fluid transfer and can detect blockage of the flow path.

[0042] Furthermore, the electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment of the present invention can be easily connected to a power supply, and the contact area with the power supply can be increased.

[0043] Furthermore, the fluid transfer device according to the embodiment of the present invention can increase the fluid transfer efficiency and reduce dead space of the fluid. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0044] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a fluid transfer pump device according to an embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a front view of the fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram illustrating the operation of the fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an electroosmotic pump according to an embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of an electroosmotic pump and separator according to an embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 6 is a structural diagram of a first isolation part according to an embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a first standoff according to an embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 8 is a structural diagram of a second isolation part according to an embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a second isolation portion according to an embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a second isolation portion according to an embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a power supply unit and a connector coupled together according to an embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 12 is a side view of the power supply unit according to the embodiment.

[0056] FIG. 13 is a detailed view of a connector according to an embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 14 is a side view of the power supply unit according to the embodiment.

[0058] FIG. 15 is a detailed view of a connector according to an embodiment.

[0059] FIG. 16 is a structural diagram of a transfer chamber part according to an embodiment.

[0060] FIG. 17 is an exploded view of a transfer chamber portion and a second isolation portion according to an embodiment.

[0061] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the second separator according to the embodiment.

[0062] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a transfer chamber portion according to an embodiment.

[0063] FIG. 20 is a view showing a modified example of the transfer chamber part according to the embodiment.

[0064] FIG. 21 is a view showing a modified example of the transfer chamber part according to the embodiment.

[0065] FIG. 22 is an exploded view of a valve section and a transfer path section according to an embodiment.

[0066] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a transfer chamber section and a transfer path section according to an embodiment.

[0067] FIG. 24 is an exploded view of a monitoring unit according to an embodiment.

[0068] 25 is a diagram showing a modified example of the first separator according to the embodiment.

[0069] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily understand the present invention. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts that are not relevant to the description will be omitted, and similar parts will be designated by similar reference numerals throughout the specification.

[0070] Throughout this specification, when a part is "connected" to another part, it means not only when it is "directly connected" to another part, but also when it is "electrically connected" with another element therebetween. Furthermore, when it is said that a part "comprises" a certain component, this does not mean that it excludes other components, but that it can further include other components, unless otherwise specified.

[0071] Furthermore, the attached drawings are intended to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and should not be construed as limiting the technical ideas disclosed in this specification, but should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, or alternatives included within the idea and technical scope of the present invention.

[0072] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

[0073] When a component is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly coupled or connected to the other component, but that there may be other components between them. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as being "directly coupled" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components between them.

[0074] The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0075] In this application, terms such as "comprise" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, but are to be understood as not precluding the possible presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0076] The configuration of a fluid transfer pump device (1) according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0077] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a fluid transfer pump device (1) according to an embodiment.

[0078] 1, the fluid transfer pump device 1 includes a pressure generating unit 100 and a power supply unit 200. The fluid transfer pump device 1 may also include a transfer chamber unit 300 through which a first fluid, which is a fluid to be transferred, moves, and a transfer path unit 400. The fluid transfer pump device 1 may further include a monitoring unit 500 that is not connected to the path through which the first fluid moves, but is provided separately, and that detects normal operation of the fluid transfer pump device 1 and blockage of the path.

[0079] The fluid transfer pump device 1 can refer to a device for inhaling and discharging a drug and a pump device for transporting a first fluid. However, the use of the fluid transfer pump device 1 described in this specification is not limited to the transport of drugs, and it can be used to inhale and discharge various fluid-form substances.

[0080] The pressure generating unit (100) is a general term for a device that generates pressure for transferring a first fluid, which is a fluid to be transferred. The pressure generating unit (100) can generate positive or negative pressure. Positive and negative pressure refer to the direction of pressure generation for changing the direction of fluid movement.

[0081] Therefore, the negative pressure refers to the direction of pressure for drawing in the first fluid, and the positive pressure refers to the direction of pressure for discharging the first fluid. The positive and negative pressures generated by the pressure generating unit 100 enable the fluid transfer pump device 1 to draw in the drug stored in the drug storage unit and inject it into the body.

[0082] When an electroosmotic pump is used as the pressure generating unit 100, the pressure generating unit 100 includes a second fluid present inside the pressure generating unit 100, a membrane 110 through which the second fluid can permeate, and a first electrode and a second electrode 120. The first electrode and the second electrode 120 can be disposed on the side of the membrane 110, respectively.

[0083] Specifically, the first electrode and the second electrode 120 may be disposed on both opposing sides of the membrane 110 or on a side perpendicular to the direction of pressure. The first electrode and the second electrode 120 may be supplied with power for generating pressure from a power supply 200.

[0084] The pressure generating unit 100 further includes separators 140 and 150 that are stacked and coupled to the electrode 120. The separators 140 and 150 include a first separator 140 that is coupled to one side of the pressure generating unit 100 and a second separator 150 that is coupled to the other side of the pressure generating unit 100.

[0085] The separators (140, 150) include separator frames (141, 151) laminated and joined to the pressure generating unit (100), and flexible separators (142, 152) joined to the inside of the separator frames (141, 151) to make the pressure generating unit (100) airtight.

[0086] Therefore, the separator 150 prevents the second fluid in the pressure generating unit 100 from mixing with the first fluid, which is the fluid to be transferred. Furthermore, the separators 142, 152 deform in response to the pressure generated in the pressure generating unit 100, thereby transmitting pressure to the transfer chamber 300, the transfer path 400, and the monitoring unit 500.

[0087] The specific configurations of the pressure generating unit (100) and the power supply unit (200) will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS.

[0088] The fluid transfer pump device (1) includes a transfer chamber unit (300) coupled to a second isolation unit (150) on the opposite side of the pressure generating unit (100). Thus, the pressure generating unit (100), the first isolation unit (140), the second isolation unit (150), and the transfer chamber unit (300) are coupled in a stacked configuration.

[0089] The transfer chamber unit 300 transfers the pressure generated by the pressure generating unit 100 to the first fluid. To this end, the transfer chamber unit 300 includes a transfer chamber frame 310 stacked and coupled to the second isolation unit 150, a transfer chamber 320 formed inside the transfer chamber frame 310 to receive the fluid to be transferred, and an intake unit and an exhaust unit through which the fluid is input to and discharged from the transfer chamber 320.

[0090] The fluid transfer pump device 1 further includes a transfer path unit 400 coupled to the transfer chamber unit 300 from the opposite side of the second isolation unit 150. The transfer path unit 400 includes a transfer path frame 410 coupled to the transfer chamber unit 300 by stacking, an inlet path 430 through which the first fluid is input to the transfer chamber unit 300, and a discharge path 440 through which the first fluid is output from the transfer chamber unit 300.

[0091] At this time, the inlet path 430 and the outlet path 440 may be formed in the stacking direction of the fluid transfer pump device 1 or may be formed perpendicular to the stacking direction.

[0092] The fluid transfer pump device 1 may further include valve units 360, 370 that allow or block the flow of the first fluid. The valve units 360, 370 may include an intake valve 360 ​​that allows the first fluid to be input to the transfer chamber unit 300 and blocks the output, and an exhaust valve 370 that allows the first fluid to be output from the transfer chamber unit 300 and blocks the input. Therefore, the transfer path unit 400 may be formed with a pair of valve connection ports 420 to which the intake valve 360 ​​and the exhaust valve 370 are installed and fixed.

[0093] The fluid transfer pump device 1 may further include a monitoring unit 500 stacked and coupled to the first isolation unit on the opposite side of the pressure generating unit 100. The monitoring unit 500 may be coupled to the transfer chamber unit 300 and the transfer path unit 400 on the opposite side of the pressure generating unit 100. Therefore, the monitoring unit 500 can detect whether the fluid transfer pump device 1 is operating normally without contacting or being connected to the path through which the first fluid moves.

[0094] The specific configuration of the monitoring unit (500) will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS.

[0095] The fluid transfer pump device 1 is configured by stacking two or more components of the pressure generating unit 100, first isolation unit 140, second isolation unit 150, transfer chamber unit 300, transfer path unit 400, and monitoring unit 500 in one direction and combining them as a single unit. By stacking the multiple components that make up the fluid transfer pump device 1 in one direction, the components can be easily combined, and the manufacturing method of the fluid transfer pump device 1 can be simplified.

[0096] Furthermore, the pressure generating section (100), first isolation section (140), second isolation section (150), transfer chamber section (300), transfer path section (400) and monitoring section (500) that constitute the fluid transfer pump device (1) can be formed and aligned to have a rectangular cross-sectional outline shape in the stacking direction.

[0097] The pressure generating unit 100, the first isolation unit 140, the second isolation unit 150, the transfer chamber unit 300, the transfer path unit 400, and the monitoring unit 500 are designed in a cubic shape, which allows for thin manufacturing. In addition, the fluid transfer pump device 1 is manufactured to have a rectangular cross-sectional outline shape in the stacking direction, which makes it easy to align the components when connecting them.

[0098] The fluid transfer pump device 1 can be designed so that the components included in the fluid transfer pump device 1 have uniform specifications, and the contour shape of the fluid transfer pump device 1 has a cubic shape. That is, the pressure generating unit 100, first isolation unit 140, second isolation unit 150, transfer chamber unit 300, transfer path unit 400, and monitoring unit 500 that make up the fluid transfer pump device 1 can be designed so that the components have uniform specifications, and the contour shape of the fluid transfer pump device 1 has a cubic shape.

[0099] This allows the contour shapes of the components included in the fluid transfer pump device 1 to match, and allows the fluid transfer pump device 1 to be designed in a form that minimizes protrusions. By minimizing the protrusions of the fluid transfer pump device 1, the volume of the fluid transfer pump device 1 can be minimized.

[0100] Specifically, the fluid transfer pump device 1 can be designed in a cubic shape with a height of 5 to 10 mm, a width of 10 to 15 mm, and a length of 15 to 30 mm so that it can be applied to a miniaturized drug injector. By configuring the fluid transfer pump device 1 in a single modular form with a certain standard, the fluid transfer pump device 1 can be used in various types of drug injectors.

[0101] By minimizing the protrusion of the fluid transfer pump device (1) and designing its contour shape in the form of a cube, the fluid transfer pump device (1) can be positioned to facilitate connection and compatibility with other components within the housing of a drug injection device such as an insulin patch.

[0102] Furthermore, by designing the fluid transfer pump device 1 to have a unidirectional laminate structure, it is easy to change the laminate structure of the fluid transfer pump device 1 or replace some of the components depending on the intended use, the type of fluid used, the form and specifications of the drug injection device, etc. The specifications of the fluid transfer pump device 1 are not limited to these, and can be changed depending on the laminate structure, changes in the laminate structure, and the type and specifications of the drug injection device to be used.

[0103] Hereinafter, the operation of the fluid transfer pump device (1) according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0104] FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram illustrating the operation of the fluid transfer pump device according to the embodiment.

[0105] Figure 3(a) shows the case where no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit 100. As shown in Figure 3(a), when no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit 100, the flexible separators 142 and 152 hang down in the direction of gravity. In other words, when no pressure is generated, the first separator 142 and the second separator 152 have a downwardly bent parabolic shape.

[0106] 3(b) and 3(c) show the case where negative pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit 100. As shown in FIG. 3(b), when pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit 100 in the direction D1, deformation of the flexible separators 142 and 152 occurs. Therefore, the first separator 142 and the second separator 152 deform in the direction D1. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3(c), the first separator 142 and the second separator 152 deform into a first shape. The first shape refers to the shape into which the separator deforms in response to the negative pressure.

[0107] The first shape is a shape in which the first separator 142 or the second separator 152 is raised. Therefore, the first shape can mean that the separators 142, 152 are bent upward in a parabolic shape.

[0108] 3(b), when the second separator 152 is deformed into the first shape, the intake valve 360 ​​is opened. When the second separator 152 is deformed into the first shape, the discharge valve 370 is closed. Therefore, the first fluid to be transferred is input into the transfer chamber along the intake path 330.

[0109] The monitoring unit (500) can measure the pressure or change in shape caused by the first separator (142) deforming into the first shape, and detect whether the fluid transfer pump device (1) is operating normally and whether the flow path is blocked.

[0110] 3(d) and 3(e) show the case where a positive pressure is generated by the pressure generating unit 100. As shown in 3(d) and 3(e), when pressure is generated in the direction D2 by the pressure generating unit 100, deformation of the flexible separators 142 and 152 occurs. This causes the first separator 142 and the second separator 152 to deform in the direction D2. As a result, as shown in 3(e) of FIG. 3, the first separator 142 and the second separator 152 deform into a second shape. The second shape refers to the shape of the separators 142 and 152 that are deformed in response to the positive pressure.

[0111] The second shape is a shape in which the first separator (142) or the second separator (152) is downwardly curved. The second shape may refer to a shape that is symmetrical to the first shape. Therefore, the second shape may refer to a parabolic deformation of the separator (142, 152) that is bent downward.

[0112] When the first separator 142 or the second separator 152 is deformed into the second shape in response to positive pressure, the deformation rate may be greater than the basic shape of the flexible separator 142, 152 shown in Figure 3(a). That is, when positive pressure is generated, the separator 142, 152 may bend to a greater extent than the basic shape.

[0113] 3(e), when the second separator (152) is deformed to the second shape, the intake valve (360) is closed, and when the second separator (152) is deformed to the second shape, the discharge valve (370) is opened, so that the first fluid present in the transfer chamber (320) is output along the discharge path (340).

[0114] The monitoring unit (500) can measure the pressure or change in shape caused by the first separator (142) deforming into the second shape, and detect whether the fluid transfer pump device (1) is operating normally and whether the flow path is blocked.

[0115] The structure of the electroosmotic pump according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0116] The pressure generating unit 100 alternately generates positive and negative pressures, and may include not only an electroosmotic pump but also any pump or pressure generating device capable of alternately generating positive and negative pressures, such as a diaphragm pump that draws in and discharges a first fluid by the movement of a diaphragm, a pump using a motor, or a hydraulic pump.

[0117] By way of example, when the pressure generating unit (100) includes an electroosmotic pump, the electroosmotic pump may include, but is not limited to, at least one component that uses an electrochemical reaction to move the first fluid.

[0118] Electroosmotic pumps generate positive and negative pressure using the principle of electroosmosis. Electroosmotic pumps have a pump structure that utilizes the electroosmotic phenomenon that occurs when a voltage is applied to both ends of a capillary or porous membrane using electrodes, causing a second fluid inside the electroosmotic pump to move. Therefore, electroosmotic pumps can move fluids through a simple electrochemical reaction. As a result, electroosmotic pumps do not require any mechanical components and can be operated noiselessly. Furthermore, the strength of pressure can be effectively adjusted in proportion to the magnitude of the voltage applied to the electroosmotic pump.

[0119] The electroosmotic pump may include a membrane 110 and one or more electrodes 120. The electroosmotic pump includes a membrane 110 that allows fluid movement, and a plate-shaped first electrode 120 and a plate-shaped second electrode 120 that are stacked and bonded to both sides of the membrane 110. The first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120 each include an electrode portion 122 that corresponds to the membrane area and a terminal portion 130 that extends and protrudes from one side of the electrode portion 122.

[0120] The first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120) are composed of an electrode or substrate made of a porous or non-permeable material and an electrode material coated on the substrate, and in the case of a non-permeable substrate, they may be formed to include one or more fluid transfer passages (121).

[0121] The non-transparent material may include at least one of a conductive material, a semiconductor material, and a non-conductive material, where the conductive material may include at least one selected from carbon, nickel, copper, gold, silver, titanium, ruthenium, palladium, zinc, platinum, cobalt, lead, manganese, tin, iridium, iron, aluminum, gold oxide, silver oxide, ruthenium oxide, platinum oxide, lead oxide, iridium oxide, polypyrrole, polypyrrole derivatives, polyaniline, polyaniline derivatives, polythiophene, polythiophene derivatives, and combinations thereof. The semiconductor materials include Sn, Si, SiC, Ge, Se, AlP, AlAs, AlSb, AlSb, GaP, GaAs, InP, InAs, InSb, ZnS, ZnSe, ZnTe, CdS, CdSe, CdTe, ZnO, SnO2, SiO2, CeO2, TiO2, WO3, Fe2O3, In2O3, CuO, polypyrrole, polypyrrole derivatives, polyaniline, polyaniline derivatives, polythiophene, polythiophene derivatives, Prussian blue, FeHCF (iron hexacyanoferrate), CuHCF (copper hexacyanoferrate), CoHCF (cobalt hexacyanoferrate), and NiHCF (nickel hexacyanoferrate), and combinations thereof.Non-conductive materials include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly(methyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyolefine, polyamide, polyester, aramide, acrylic, polyethylene oxide, polycaprolactone, polycarbonate, polyurethane (PU), polystyrene, polybenzimidazole (PBI), poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), and poly(etherimide). imide), styrene-butadiene-styrene triblock copolymer (SBS), poly(ferrocenyldimethylsilane), polyimide (PI), and combinations thereof.

[0122] The second fluid present inside the electroosmotic pump can move using the second electrode 120 and the fluid movement passage 121 of the second electrode 120. As a result, the electroosmotic pump moves the second fluid inside the electroosmotic pump due to an electrochemical reaction between the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120, and the movement of the second fluid generates positive and negative pressures.

[0123] 4, the fluid transfer passage 121 is shown as a circle, but the fluid transfer passage 121 of the present invention is not limited to this and may be formed in various shapes such as a square, a triangle, a diamond, etc. depending on the type and volume of the second fluid, the combination form of the membrane 110 and the electrode 120, the manufacturing method of the electrode 120, etc.

[0124] In an electroosmotic pump, a forward and reverse electrochemical reaction occurs reversibly by alternately supplying voltage polarities to the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120). The repeated forward and reverse electrochemical reactions cause the second fluid inside the electroosmotic pump to repeatedly reciprocate. Furthermore, the repeated forward and reverse reversible electrochemical reactions cause the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120) to be repeatedly consumed and regenerated.

[0125] In FIG. 4, the membrane (110) and the electrode (120) are shown in a rectangular or cubic shape, but the embodiment is not limited to this and the fluid transfer pump device (1) may have various shapes depending on its use, size, connection form, etc.

[0126] The first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120 may be coupled to a side of the membrane 110 that is perpendicular to the direction in which the second fluid moves or perpendicular to the direction in which positive and negative pressures are generated. The size of the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120 does not necessarily have to be the same as the size of one side of the membrane 110. The electrode 120 may be formed in a plate shape that covers one side of the membrane 110.

[0127] In addition, the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120 according to the embodiment of the present invention have a protruding terminal portion 130 for connection with the power supply unit 200. That is, the terminal portion 130 is formed in a plate shape that is integrally extended and protruded from one side of the electrode 120.

[0128] Therefore, the terminal portion 130 has a shape that allows the power supply portion 200 to be coupled or contacted to the terminal portion 130. The terminal portion 130 does not necessarily need to be coated with an electrode coating material, but may be selectively coated.

[0129] In one example, the membrane (110) may utilize one or more of silicon dioxide (SiO), barium titanate (BaTiO), silicon carbide (SiC), silicon nitride (SiN), and zirconium dioxide (ZrO).

[0130] In one example, the electrode 120 may be a carbon electrode, a polymer electrode, a metal, a metal oxide, a metal hexacyanoferrate, or the like, or may be a mixture of at least one of these. In one example, the metal coating material may include at least one of silver, zinc, lead, manganese, copper, tin, ruthenium, nickel, gold, titanium, palladium, platinum, cobalt, iron, aluminum, iridium, and combinations thereof. The carbon electrode may include at least one of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, carbon nanoparticles, fullerenes, graphite, and combinations thereof.

[0131] In one example, the polymer electrode material used as the electrode coating material may be one or more of polyaniline, polyaniline derivatives, polythiophene, polythiophene derivatives, polypyrrole, polypyrrole derivatives, polythionine, and quinone polymers, or a mixture of any one or more of these.

[0132] Metal oxides can also be used as electrode coating materials, including at least one of silver / silver oxide (Ag / AgO2), platinum oxide, lead oxide, manganese oxide (MnOx), vanadium oxide (VO5), molybdenum oxide (MoO3), tungsten oxide (WO3), ruthenium oxide (RuO2), iridium oxide, cerium oxide (CeO2), and polyoxometalates, or a mixture of at least one of these.

[0133] In addition, metal hexacyanoferrates can be used as electrode coating materials. Examples of metal hexacyanoferrates include Prussian blue, iron hexacyanoferrate (FeHCF), copper hexacyanoferrate (CuHCF), and cobalt hexacyanoferrate (CoHCF), or a mixture of these metal hexacyanoferrates.

[0134] The electrode coating material and the substrate may be formed into a multi-layer structure, and the electrode coating material may be coated using at least one of drop coating, dip coating, spin coating, spray coating, printing, pyrolysis, and electrodeposition.

[0135] The coated first electrode 120 and second electrode 120 can be processed to smooth the surface of the coated electrode material by heat pressing or decal transfer method.

[0136] Also, as shown in FIG. 5, a first isolation part (140) and a second isolation part (150) can be stacked and bonded to the pressure generating part (100).

[0137] A first isolation part 140 is coupled to one side of the pressure generating part 100, and a second isolation part 150 is coupled to the other side of the pressure generating part 100 in a stacked manner. The first isolation part 140 and the second isolation part 150 are coupled to both sides of the pressure generating part 100 and are formed to make the pressure generating part 100 airtight.

[0138] The structures of the first separator 140 and the second separator 150 will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0139] As shown in Figures 6 and 8, the separator (140, 150) includes an separator frame (141, 151) laminated and bonded to the pressure generating part, and a flexible separator (142, 152) bonded to the inside of the separator frame (141, 151) to make the pressure generating part (100) airtight.

[0140] The first separator 142 and the second separator 152 are made of a deformable material so that their shape can be changed by the positive and negative pressures generated in the pressure generating unit 100. Therefore, they can correspond to a diaphragm whose shape changes depending on the pressure.

[0141] For example, the first separator 142 and the second separator 152 may be made of one or more of a polymer diaphragm and a metal diaphragm. For example, the polymer diaphragm may be made of one or more of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyimide (PI), Teflon, latex, polyurethane (PU), silicone, a multilayer film containing ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or a composite material containing one or more of these materials.

[0142] In one example, the first separator 142 and the second separator 152 may include one or more of aluminum, stainless steel, silver, and titanium, or a mixture of any one or more of these materials.

[0143] 7 and 9 show cross-sectional views of the first standoff (140) and second standoff (150).

[0144] 7 and 9, the first separator (140) has a first separator frame (141) and a first separator (142) attached to the top of the first separator frame (141). The second separator (150) has a second separator frame (151) and a second separator (152) attached to the bottom of the second separator frame (151).

[0145] The separator frames 141 and 151 and the separators 142 and 152 may be bonded using one or more of a heat fusion method, a UV bonding method, and an ultrasonic fusion method, but the embodiment is not limited thereto, and various methods for bonding materials may be applied.

[0146] As shown in Figures 7 and 9, the flexible separators (142, 152) may be formed longer than the inner length of the separator frames (141, 151) so that deformation in response to pressure can easily occur. The inner length of the separator frames (141, 151) corresponds to the diameter of the hollow formed inside the separator frames (141, 151). That is, the first separator (142) and the second separator (152) have a sagging shape. Therefore, deformation in response to positive and negative pressures generated by the pressure generating unit (100) can easily occur.

[0147] Furthermore, the flexible separators (142, 152) can be formed to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the transfer chamber (320) or the monitoring chamber (520) when they are joined to the separator frame (141, 151), thereby preventing pinching of the separators (142, 152) and improving the transfer efficiency of the first fluid.

[0148] 6 and 9 show that the first separator frame 141 and the second separator frame 151 have a rectangular shape, and the hollows of the first separator frame 141 and the second separator frame 151 are also rectangular. However, the present invention is not limited to this example, and the frames may be configured in various shapes, such as circular or polygonal, depending on the shape of the pressure generating unit 100, the manufacturing method of the frames, and the intended use of the fluid transfer pump device 1.

[0149] The first and second isolation members 140 and 150 are coupled to make the pressure generating unit 100 airtight, thereby preventing the first fluid to be transported from mixing with the second fluid inside the electroosmotic pump.

[0150] In addition, the flexible separators 142 and 152 change shape in response to the pressure generated by the pressure generating unit 100. The pressure generated by the pressure generating unit 100 is transferred to the transfer chamber unit 300, the transfer path unit 400, and the monitoring unit 500 by the change in shape of the flexible separators 142 and 152.

[0151] 10, the separator frame (141, 151) may be provided with one or more coupling protrusions (143, 153) for aligned coupling with one or more of the pressure generating unit (100), the transfer chamber unit (300), and the monitoring unit (500). The coupling protrusions (143, 153) may be coupled to coupling grooves provided in the pressure generating unit (100), the transfer chamber unit (300), and the monitoring unit (500) to form an aligned coupling structure.

[0152] The configuration of the power supply unit (200) will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0153] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the pressure generating unit (100) and the power supply unit (200) being connected together.

[0154] 11(a) shows the pressure generating unit (100) before it is coupled to the power supply unit (200). FIG. 11(b) shows the pressure generating unit (100) after it has been slidably coupled to the power supply unit (200). The power supply unit (200) includes one or more connectors (210) that can be coupled to the terminal units (130), respectively, and a support (220) that securely supports the connectors (210). The connectors (210) have a clip or tongue shape. The spacing between the connectors (210) is set to correspond to the spacing between the electrodes (120).

[0155] As shown in Fig. 12, the first connector 210 and the second connector 210 can be fixed to the support 220 at a predetermined distance L. The distance L between the connectors can correspond to the distance between the electrodes 120 or the terminals 130. That is, the distance L between the first connector 210 that is coupled to the first electrode 120 and the second connector 210 that is coupled to the second electrode 120 can correspond to the distance between the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120 or the distance between the terminals 130 of the first electrode 120 and the terminals 130 of the second electrode 120. Therefore, the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120 can be slidably coupled to the first connector 210 and the second connector 210, respectively, without any additional operation.

[0156] The connector 210 includes a first leg 211 and a second leg 212 formed to elastically support both sides of the terminal 130. The connector 210 also includes a curved portion 213 formed on the side to which the terminal 130 is coupled to expand the gap.

[0157] By expanding the distance between the sides where the curved portion (213) is connected to the terminal portion (130), the terminal portion (130) and the connector (210) can be easily slidably connected even if there is an error in the distance (L) between the connectors (210) or the position of the terminal portion (130).

[0158] As shown in Fig. 13, as the distance between the first leg 221 and the second leg 222 of the connector 210 decreases, a portion of the connector 210 comes into contact with the terminal 130. Therefore, the connector 210 can be deformed into the shapes shown in Figs. 14 and 15 to increase the contact area with the terminal 130.

[0159] As shown in Figures 14 and 15, the connector 210 may further include a third leg (214) that is curved from at least one of the first leg (211) and the second leg (212) toward the terminal portion (130) and expands the contact surface with the terminal portion (130).

[0160] 15, when the electrode 120 and the connector 210 are coupled, not only the first leg 211 and the second leg 212 but also the third leg 214 contacts the terminal 130. Therefore, the contact area of ​​the connector 210 with the terminal 130 increases by the area of ​​the third leg 214.

[0161] However, although the third leg portion 214 is shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 as having a rectangular shape, this is not limited thereto and may be modified into various shapes depending on the shape of the terminal portion 130, the manufacturing method of the power supply portion 200, and the method of connecting the power supply portion 200 and the terminal portion 130.

[0162] The connector 210 is not necessarily limited to a clip type. The power supply terminal may be a tongue type, a type that uses magnetism to attach the electrode 120, a type that applies external pressure to the top and bottom of the electrode 120 to fix it, or a type that forms a contact surface with the electrode.

[0163] The connector 210 can be assembled automatically. For example, it can be packaged in a reel type, which is one of the packaging methods for automated assembly. The connector 210 can also be produced in the form of a surface mounted device (SMD: Surface Mounting Technology). Because it is configured in the form of a surface mounted device, the connector 210 can be designed in a form that can be directly mounted on the surface of a power circuit board. By packaging the connector 210 in a reel type and producing it in the form of a surface mounted device, production costs and assembly time can be reduced.

[0164] The power supply 200 applies a voltage to the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120. At this time, there is a voltage difference between the voltages applied to the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120. Therefore, an oxidation-reduction reaction occurs between the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 120 due to the voltage difference.

[0165] The oxidation-reduction reaction between the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (120) causes a charge imbalance, which causes cations to migrate through the membrane surface within the electrode (120) to balance the charge. Either the first electrode (120) or the second electrode (120) generates cations through an electrochemical reaction, and the other consumes cations. In this case, the cations generated or consumed by the electrochemical reaction may be monovalent cations. The type of cation is not necessarily limited to monovalent cations, and may include hydrogen ions (H + ), sodium ions (Na + ), potassium ions (K + ) and various other ions can be used.

[0166] The cations glide across the negatively charged surface of the membrane (110) due to the voltage applied to both ends, connecting the hydrated water molecules with the water molecules connected to them by hydrogen bonds, and the electroosmotic pump moves the second fluid at a high speed.

[0167] As described above, the pressure generated by the pressure generating unit 100 causes the deformation of the second separator 152. Due to the deformation of the second separator 152, the pressure generated by the pressure generating unit 100 is transferred to the transfer chamber 300.

[0168] The structure of the transfer chamber part 300 will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0169] The transfer chamber portion (300) includes a transfer chamber frame (310) that defines a contour shape, and a transfer chamber (320) that is recessed into the transfer chamber frame (310) and faces the second separator (152).

[0170] The transfer chamber frame 310 has a concave surface that couples with the second separator 152 to form the transfer chamber 320. The transfer chamber frame 310 includes a bottom 311 that forms a concave space and a peripheral edge 312 that surrounds the bottom 311. The cross-sectional area of ​​the peripheral edge 312 decreases from the top (second separator) of the peripheral edge 312 to the bottom 311. Therefore, the peripheral edge 312 forms a slope.

[0171] The peripheral portion 312 is also formed with an inlet 313 through which the first fluid is input and an outlet 314 through which the first fluid is output. That is, the inlet 313 and the outlet 314 may be formed on any of the inclined surfaces. The inlet 313 and the outlet 314 are formed to face each other on the peripheral surface 312. That is, the inlet 313 and the outlet 314 may be formed on surfaces facing each other among the plurality of inclined surfaces. This allows the first fluid to be input and output smoothly and separately.

[0172] Here, the inlet (313) and outlet (314) are referred to for convenience of explanation, and do not refer to inlets through which the first fluid is drawn, but rather to holes formed in the peripheral portion (312) forming the transfer chamber (320) and connected to the inlet path (330) and outlet path (340).

[0173] 17 and 18, the transfer chamber 300 is coupled to the second separator 150. The transfer chamber 320 may correspond to a space for transmitting pressure or a space for moving a first fluid in response to deformation of the second separator 152. Therefore, the first fluid, which is a fluid to be transferred, can be input and output through the transfer chamber 320.

[0174] The transfer chamber 320 is open to the second separator 152 and is formed by an upper portion to which the separator 152 is joined and made airtight, a bottom portion 311 formed on the opposite side of the separator 152, and a peripheral portion 312 formed between the upper and lower portions. That is, the transfer chamber 320 has an upper portion that is airtightly sealed by the second separator 152, and corresponds to a space formed by the bottom portion 311 and peripheral portion 312 that are recessed into the transfer chamber frame 310.

[0175] The cross-sectional area of ​​the top of the transfer chamber 320 is larger than that of the bottom 311. Therefore, the peripheral edge 312 is formed to form an inclined surface.

[0176] FIG. 18 shows a modified example of the second separator (152).

[0177] 18(a) shows the shape of the second separator (152) when no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100). When no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100), the second separator (152) sags in the direction of gravity. In other words, when no pressure is generated, the second separator (152) sags toward the transfer chamber (320) or the bottom (311).

[0178] 18(b) shows the shape of the second separator (152) when negative pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit (100). When negative pressure acts on the second separator (152), the second separator (152) deforms toward the opposite side of the bottom (311). Due to the deformation of the second separator (152), the negative pressure generated in the pressure generating unit (100) is transferred to the transfer chamber (320). That is, the second separator (152) deforms into a first shape in response to the negative pressure, and as a result, the first fluid is input into the transfer chamber (320) through the suction passage (330).

[0179] The first shape may correspond to at least one of a parabolic shape in which the second separator (152) is bent upward, or a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent inside the second separator frame (310). Also, the first shape may correspond to at least one of a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent toward the pressure generating unit (100) or a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent in the suction direction of the first fluid.

[0180] 18(c) shows the shape of the second separator (152) when a positive pressure is generated in the pressure generator (100). When a positive pressure is applied to the second separator (152), the second separator (152) deforms toward the bottom (311) in accordance with the shape of the inclined surface. Therefore, the deformation of the second separator (152) transfers the positive pressure generated in the pressure generator (100) to the transfer chamber (320). That is, the second separator (152) deforms into a second shape in response to the positive pressure, causing the second fluid to be output from the transfer chamber (320) through the discharge path (340).

[0181] The second shape may correspond to one or more of a parabolic shape in which the second separator (152) is bent downward, or a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent outward from the second separator frame (151). The second form may also correspond to one or more of a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent in the opposite direction to the pressure generating unit (100), or a shape in which the second separator (152) is bent in the discharge direction of the first fluid.

[0182] 18(c), when the second separator (152) is deformed into the second shape, it has a shape that is more bent than the basic shape of the second separator (152) shown in FIG. 18(a). In other words, when a positive pressure is generated, the second separator (152) is formed with a larger deformation rate toward the bottom (311) than the basic shape.

[0183] Even when the second separator 152 is deformed into the second shape, gaps remain between the second separator 152 and the inlet 313 and outlet 314 because the inlet 313 and outlet 314 are formed on inclined surfaces. Therefore, even when positive pressure is generated, the first fluid can move between the inlet passage 330 and the outlet passage 340 through the transfer chamber 320. In addition, because the inlet 313 and outlet 314 are formed on inclined surfaces, bubbles generated when the first fluid moves through the transfer chamber 320 can be smoothly discharged through the outlet passage 340.

[0184] If the peripheral portion 312 of the transfer chamber 320 is formed vertically without an inclined surface, the second separator 152 may be pinched at the corner where the bottom 311 and the peripheral portion 312 meet. Furthermore, bubbles and impurities generated as the first fluid moves may not be discharged smoothly, and may accumulate in the corner. This reduces the transfer efficiency of the first fluid.

[0185] However, when the peripheral portion (312) of the transfer chamber (320) is formed to include an inclined surface, the pinching phenomenon of the corners of the second separator (152) is reduced. Also, bubbles that occur as the first fluid moves are more easily discharged. Furthermore, the accumulation of impurities in the corners is reduced, and the impurities are more easily discharged. Therefore, when the peripheral portion (312) of the transfer chamber (320) is formed to include an inclined surface, the transfer efficiency of the first fluid is improved.

[0186] The inlet 313 and the outlet 314 formed in the peripheral edge 312 include an inlet passage 330 and an outlet passage 340, respectively, extending therefrom. The specific configurations of the inlet passage 330 and the outlet passage 340 will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 19 to 21.

[0187] 19, the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are formed to be inclined outward from the suction port (313) and the discharge port (314), respectively, and the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are formed so that their cross-sectional areas increase as they move away from the transfer chamber (320).

[0188] That is, the suction passage 330 and the discharge passage 340 may be formed to be inclined with respect to the direction of the pressure generated by the pressure generating unit 100. In this case, the suction passage 330 and the discharge passage 340 may be formed to have an angle between 5.6° and 60°. However, the angle of the passage is not limited thereto, and may be formed at various angles depending on the diameter of the passage, the type and volume of the first fluid, the strength and direction of pressure, etc.

[0189] The suction passage (330) can be divided into an upper suction passage (331) and a lower suction passage (332). The discharge passage (340) can be divided into an upper discharge passage (341) and a lower discharge passage (342).

[0190] The upper intake passage 331 and the upper discharge passage 341 are connected to the transfer chamber 320 via the intake port 313 and the discharge port 314, respectively. Therefore, one end of the upper intake passage 331 and the upper discharge passage 341 is connected to the peripheral edge 312 of the transfer chamber 320. The other end of the upper intake passage 331 and the upper discharge passage 341 is connected to the lower intake passage 332 and the lower discharge passage 342, respectively.

[0191] The upper suction passage (331) and the upper discharge passage (341) are arranged so that the flow paths are not perpendicular to the horizontal plane but form a diagonal line. That is, the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are formed so as to be inclined outward, so that the upper suction passage (331) and the upper discharge passage (341) are formed apart from each other. Therefore, the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are arranged in an A-shape.

[0192] However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and may include a case where the intake passage and the discharge passage are formed vertically or horizontally to a horizontal plane or a pressure generating direction.

[0193] The inlet passage 330 and the outlet passage 340 are configured in such a way that the cross-sectional area or diameter increases. The upper passage 331, 341 and the lower passage 332, 342 are distinguished by the difference in the rate of increase in the cross-sectional area or diameter. The rate of increase in the cross-sectional area or diameter of the upper passage 331, 341 is greater than that of the lower passage 332, 342.

[0194] That is, in the case of the upper suction passage (331), the suction port (313) has the narrowest cross-sectional area or diameter, and the cross-sectional area or diameter increases toward the lower suction passage (333). In the case of the upper discharge passage (341), the discharge port (314) has the narrowest cross-sectional area or diameter, and the cross-sectional area or diameter increases toward the lower discharge passage (343).

[0195] The cross-sectional area or diameter increase rate of the lower suction passage 332 and the lower discharge passage 342 is greater than that of the upper suction passage 331 and the upper discharge passage 341. However, the cross-sectional area increase rate of the lower suction passage 332 and the lower discharge passage 342 is not necessarily greater than that of the upper suction passage 331 and the upper discharge passage 341. The cross-sectional area increase rate of the lower suction passage 332 and the lower discharge passage 342 may be the same as that of the upper suction passage 331 and the upper discharge passage 341, or may be configured as a straight line without increasing cross-sectional area, taking into consideration the size of the suction valve 360 ​​and the discharge valve 370 used, the type of the first fluid, the purpose of use, and the size of the flow path transfer pump device 1.

[0196] The lower suction passage (332) and the lower discharge passage (342) are divided into an inclined surface and a valve connection port. The inclined surface is formed to have a curvature. That is, the inclined surface is formed in a streamlined shape. The valve connection port is configured in a shape that can be connected to the suction valve (360) or the discharge valve (370) according to the size of the valve.

[0197] As described above, the inclined arrangement of the flow paths (330, 340) reduces the occurrence of vortexes and smooths the flow of the first fluid when the first fluid moves along the flow paths (330, 340) as the cross-sectional area or diameter of the flow paths (330, 340) increases. In addition, the streamlined inclined surfaces of the lower portions (332, 342) of the flow paths can reduce the vortexes of the first fluid.

[0198] However, the shape of the flow channels (330, 340) is not necessarily limited to a shape in which the cross-sectional area or diameter increases, but is arranged in an inclined manner. As shown in FIG. 20, the flow channels (330, 340) may be arranged in an inclined manner, but the flow channels (330, 340) may be formed with a constant diameter. Also, as shown in FIG. 21, one connecting flow channel ( 250 The flow paths (330, 340) may be formed in a form in which the suction path (330) and the discharge path (340) branch off from the connecting flow path.

[0199] 20, when the flow paths (330, 340) are arranged horizontally, the inlet path (330) and the outlet path (340) are connected to both sides of the transfer chamber frame 310, rather than to the bottom surface of the transfer chamber frame 310. That is, the lower inlet path (332) and the lower outlet path (342) are respectively arranged on the opposing sides of the transfer chamber frame 310.

[0200] As shown in FIG. 21, when the flow paths (330, 340) are arranged in a T-shape, the intake path (330) and the discharge path (340) do not exist separately, but are replaced by one T-shaped flow path. That is, the connecting flow path ( 250) is connected to the bottom (311) of the transfer chamber frame (310). The suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are connected to a connecting passage ( 250 ) are formed by branching into two. Therefore, in the case of a T-shaped flow path arrangement, the suction and discharge directions of the first fluid are formed perpendicular to the pressure generation direction.

[0201] In the horizontal flow path configuration, negative pressure draws the first fluid along the intake flow path 330. The drawn first fluid moves to the transfer chamber 320. When positive pressure is generated, the first fluid present in the transfer chamber 320 moves to the discharge flow path 340.

[0202] In the case of the T-shaped flow path arrangement, the first fluid is sucked along the suction path (330) by the negative pressure. The sucked first fluid flows through the connecting flow path ( 250 ) into the transfer chamber (320). When a positive pressure is generated, the first fluid present in the transfer chamber (320) is discharged through the discharge passage (340).

[0203] An intake valve (360) and a discharge valve (370) for one-way transfer of the first fluid are connected to the intake passage lower portion (332) and the discharge passage lower portion (342).

[0204] Hereinafter, the structures of the valve portions (360, 370) and the transfer path portion (400) will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0205] 22, the suction passage 330 and the discharge passage 340 may be connected to a suction valve 360 ​​and a discharge valve 370, respectively. The suction valve 360 ​​and the discharge valve 370 collectively refer to components for preventing backflow of the first fluid. Therefore, the suction valve 360 ​​and the discharge valve 370 may include a check valve.

[0206] The intake valve 360 ​​is connected to the intake passage 330 and allows the first fluid to enter the transfer chamber 320 but blocks its output. The discharge valve 370 is connected to the discharge passage 340 and allows the first fluid to exit the transfer chamber 320 but blocks its input.

[0207] The transfer path unit 400 is connected to the transfer chamber unit 300 from the opposite side of the second isolation unit 150. The transfer path unit 400 is formed with a pair of valve coupling holes 420 to which the intake valve 360 ​​and the discharge valve 370 are attached and fixed. Therefore, the valves 360 and 370 are inserted into the valve coupling holes 420, so that the transfer chamber unit 300 and the transfer path unit 400 form a stacked structure.

[0208] The transfer path unit 400 includes an inlet path 430 through which the first fluid is input to the transfer chamber unit 300 and an outlet path 440 through which the first fluid is output from the transfer chamber unit 300. That is, the inlet path 430 is connected to the intake valve 360 ​​or the intake path 330 and is a path through which the first fluid is input to the transfer chamber unit 300. The outlet path 440 is connected to the outlet valve 370 or the outlet path 340 and is a path through which the first fluid is output from the transfer chamber unit 300.

[0209] The inlet path 430 may include a connector that connects to a storage container in which the first fluid is stored, and the outlet path 440 may include a discharge device for discharging the first fluid or a connector that connects to a discharge device.

[0210] When the suction passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are arranged in an A-shape as shown in FIG. 19, the inlet passage (430) and the discharge passage (440) are formed along the stacking direction of the fluid transfer pump device (1).

[0211] When the intake passage (330) and the discharge passage (340) are arranged horizontally or in a T-shape, as in the configuration shown in Figure 20 or Figure 21, the inlet passage (430) and the discharge passage (430) are formed perpendicular to the stacking direction of the fluid transfer pump device (1).

[0212] The configuration of the monitoring unit (500) will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0213] The monitoring unit 500 detects normal operation of the fluid transfer pump device 1 and blockage of the first fluid flow path 330, 340. The monitoring unit 500 is stacked and bonded to the first isolation unit 140 on the opposite side of the pressure generating unit 100.

[0214] The monitoring unit 500 includes a monitoring chamber frame 510 stacked and coupled to the first isolation unit 140, a monitoring chamber 520 formed inside the monitoring chamber frame 510, and a pressure sensor 530 for measuring the pressure in the monitoring chamber 520. The pressure sensor 530 can be connected via a connection terminal 531.

[0215] The connecting terminal 531 can convert the information measured by the pressure sensor 530 into an electrical signal and transmit it to an external device. The connecting terminal 531 is not limited to the form shown in Fig. 25, but can be formed in the form of a cable directly connected to a PCB (Printed Circuit Board).

[0216] In one embodiment, a monitoring unit control circuit may be provided instead of the connection terminal 531. The monitoring unit control circuit may determine whether the flow path is blocked and whether the fluid transfer pump device 1 is operating normally, using the pressure measured by the pressure sensor 530. Furthermore, if the monitoring unit control circuit detects a flow path blockage or an abnormal operation of the fluid transfer pump device 1, it may generate a notification signal.

[0217] The monitoring chamber 520 can correspond to the space formed by the monitoring chamber frame 510 and the first separator 142. Therefore, the pressure in the monitoring chamber 520 changes with the deformation of the first separator 142.

[0218] The monitoring chamber frame 510 may have one or more coupling protrusions 512 for aligned coupling. The coupling protrusions 512 may be coupled to coupling grooves 143 provided in the first separator 140. Therefore, the first separator 140 and the monitoring unit 500 are stacked and coupled, and the pressure in the monitoring chamber 520 changes depending on the deformation of the first separator 142.

[0219] The monitoring chamber frame 510 is coupled to one side of the first separator frame 141. The monitoring chamber frame 510 can be coupled to a surface symmetrical to the surface where the pressure generating unit 100 and the first separator frame 141 are coupled.

[0220] The monitoring chamber frame 510 includes a groove or internal space carved into it to form a monitoring chamber 520. The monitoring chamber 520 refers to a space whose pressure or spatial shape changes with the deformation of the first separator 142.

[0221] A pressure sensor 530 may be connected to the monitoring chamber 520. A pressure sensor connection port 511 that communicates with the monitoring chamber 520 is formed in the monitoring chamber frame 510. The pressure sensor 530 is inserted and fixed into the pressure sensor connection port 511. This allows the pressure sensor 530 to measure pressure changes in the monitoring chamber 520.

[0222] The pressure measurement sensor 530 measures the pressure or shape change in the monitoring chamber 520. The pressure sensor 530 can detect whether the fluid transfer pump device 1 is operating normally by using the pressure change pattern measured in the monitoring chamber 520 over a certain period of time and / or the average pressure value measured in the monitoring chamber 520 over a certain period of time.

[0223] The monitoring unit 500 is provided separately from the flow paths 330, 340, 430, 440 through which the first fluid moves. That is, the monitoring unit 500 is not directly connected to the flow paths 330, 340 through which the first fluid moves, but determines whether the fluid transfer pump device 1 is operating normally or whether the flow paths 330, 340, 430, 440 are blocked.

[0224] 25(a) shows the shape of the first separator 142 when no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit 100. When no pressure is generated, the first separator 142 has a drooping shape in accordance with the direction of gravity. Therefore, when no pressure is generated in the pressure generating unit 100, the first separator 142 has a parabolic shape that is bent downward or toward the pressure generating unit 100.

[0225] 25(b) shows the shape of the first separator (142) when a positive pressure is generated in the pressure generator (100). When a positive pressure is generated in the pressure generator (100), the first separator (142) is deformed into a second shape. The second shape refers to a shape in which the first separator (142) is deformed toward the opposite side of the monitoring chamber (520). Alternatively, the second shape may correspond to one or more of a shape in which the first separator (142) is bent toward the pressure generator (100) or a shape in which the first separator (142) is bent toward the discharge direction of the first fluid.

[0226] Figure 25(c) shows the shape of the first separator (142) when negative pressure is generated in the pressure-generating unit (100). When negative pressure is generated in the pressure-generating unit (100), the first separator (142) deforms into a first shape. As shown in Figure 25(b), the first shape refers to a shape in which the first separator (142) deforms toward the monitoring chamber (520). Alternatively, the first shape may correspond to one or more of a shape in which the first separator (142) is bent outward from the first separator frame (141). The first shape may also correspond to one or more of a shape in which the first separator (142) is bent in the direction away from the pressure-generating unit (100) or a shape in which the first separator (142) is bent in the direction of suction of the first fluid.

[0227] When the first separator (142) deforms in response to positive pressure, it has a shape that is more bent than the basic shape of the first separator (142) shown in Figure 25(a). That is, when positive pressure acts on the first separator (142), the deformation rate of the first separator (142) increases. As a result, the first separator (142) has a shape that is more bent (deformed) on the opposite side of the monitoring chamber (520) than when it is in its basic shape.

[0228] As described above, the second separator 152 and the first separator 142 are deformed in the same direction or shape in response to the negative and positive pressures generated by the pressure generating unit 100 .

[0229] The above description of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be easily modified into other specific forms without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. Therefore, the above-described embodiments should be understood to be illustrative in all respects and not limiting. For example, each component described as a single component can be implemented in a distributed form, and similarly, each component described as a distributed component can be implemented in a combined form.

[0230] The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims that follow rather than by the above detailed description, and all modifications and variations that fall within the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalents should be construed as being included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. In a fluid transfer pump device, an electroosmotic pump that includes a membrane that allows fluid movement, a plate-shaped first electrode laminated and bonded to one side of the membrane, and a plate-shaped second electrode laminated and bonded to the other side of the membrane, and that electrochemically generates positive and negative pressures alternately; a first isolation portion coupled to the first electrode opposite the membrane; a second isolation portion coupled to the second electrode opposite the membrane; and a transfer chamber portion coupled to the second isolation portion on an opposite side of the electroosmotic pump; Each of the first electrode and the second electrode is a plate-shaped electrode portion corresponding to the membrane region; and a plate-shaped terminal portion integrally extending and protruding from one side of the electrode portion; The terminal portion is formed to extend and protrude along the same extension surface as the extension surface of the plate-shaped electrode portion, A fluid transfer pump device, wherein a fluid transfer passage is formed in each of the first electrode and the second electrode.

2. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1 , wherein the electroosmotic pump, the first isolation portion, the second isolation portion, and the transfer chamber portion are stacked in one direction and integrally coupled.

3. 3. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 2, wherein the membrane, the first isolation portion, the second isolation portion, and the transfer chamber portion are formed and aligned to have a rectangular cross-sectional outline shape in the stacking direction.

4. a power supply connected to the terminal portion, The power supply unit First and second connectors respectively coupled to the terminal portions; and 2. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1, further comprising a support for fixedly supporting said first and second connectors.

5. The first and second connectors are 5. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 4, wherein the device is fixed on the support at a predetermined interval that corresponds to the interval between the first and second electrodes, and the first and second connectors are slidably coupled to the first and second electrodes, respectively.

6. Each of the first and second connectors comprises:

5. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 4, further comprising a first leg portion and a second leg portion formed to elastically support both side surfaces of the terminal portion.

7. The first leg and the second leg are 7. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 6, further comprising a curved portion that elastically supports the terminal portion and is formed so that the gap between the terminal portion and the side surface to which the terminal portion is coupled is widened.

8. 7. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 6, further comprising a third leg portion curved from at least one of the first leg portion and the second leg portion toward the terminal portion, thereby enlarging the contact surface with the terminal portion.

9. The first isolation portion is a first separator frame laminated and coupled to the electroosmotic pump; and 10. The fluid transfer pumping apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a flexible first separator bonded to an interior of said first separator frame to provide an airtight seal for said electroosmotic pump.

10. 2. The fluid transfer pump device of claim 1, further comprising a monitoring section coupled to the first isolation section opposite the electroosmotic pump.

11. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 10 , wherein the electroosmotic pump, the first isolation unit, the second isolation unit, the transfer chamber unit, and the monitoring unit are stacked in one direction and integrally coupled.

12. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 10, wherein the membrane, the first isolation portion, the second isolation portion, the transfer chamber portion, and the monitoring portion are formed and aligned to have a rectangular cross-sectional contour shape in the stacking direction.

13. The monitoring unit a monitoring chamber frame stacked and coupled to the first isolation part; a monitoring chamber formed within the monitoring chamber frame; and 11. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 10, further comprising a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the monitoring chamber.

14. the monitoring chamber frame is formed with a pressure sensor connection port communicating with the monitoring chamber; 14. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 13, wherein the pressure sensor is inserted and fixed into the pressure sensor connection port.

15. The second isolation portion is a second separator frame laminated and coupled to the electroosmotic pump; and 10. The fluid transfer pumping apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a flexible second separator bonded to an interior of said second separator frame to provide an airtight seal for said electroosmotic pump.

16. The transfer chamber portion includes: a transfer chamber frame stacked and coupled to the second isolation portion; a transfer chamber formed within the transfer chamber frame to accommodate a fluid to be transferred; an intake section through which the fluid to be transferred is input into the transfer chamber; and 2. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1, further comprising a discharge portion through which the fluid to be transferred is discharged from the transfer chamber.

17. The transfer chamber portion includes: a transfer chamber frame stacked and coupled to the second isolation portion; a transfer chamber formed within the transfer chamber frame to contain a fluid to be transferred; and 2. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1, further comprising an intake and discharge section through which the fluid to be transferred is input and output to the transfer chamber.

18. a transfer path portion coupled to the transfer chamber portion on an opposite side to the second isolation portion, The transfer path section includes: a transfer path frame stacked and coupled to the transfer chamber; an inflow path through which the fluid to be transferred is input to the transfer chamber; and 2. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1, further comprising a discharge path through which the fluid to be transferred is output from the transfer chamber portion.

19. The inlet path and the outlet path are The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 18, wherein the fluid transfer pump device is formed along a stacking direction of the fluid transfer pump device.

20. The inlet path and the outlet path are 19. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 18, wherein the fluid transfer pump device is formed perpendicular to the stacking direction.

21. The pump further includes a valve portion that allows or blocks the flow of the fluid to be transferred, The valve portion is an intake valve that allows the fluid to be transferred to the transfer chamber and blocks its output; and 19. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 18, further comprising a discharge valve that allows the fluid to be transferred to be output from the transfer chamber and blocks the fluid from being input.

22. The transfer path section includes:

22. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 21, wherein a pair of valve connection ports are formed to which the suction valve and the discharge valve are installed and fixed.

23. At least one of the first isolation portion, the second isolation portion, and the transfer chamber portion, which are combined in a stacked manner, one or more coupling protrusions for aligned coupling; and 2. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1, wherein one or more coupling grooves corresponding to the coupling protrusions are formed.

24. The transfer chamber portion includes: a transfer chamber frame defining a contour of the transfer chamber portion; and 2. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 1, further comprising a transfer chamber formed in a recessed shape in the transfer chamber frame opposite the flexible separator of the second separator, for inputting and outputting the fluid to be transferred.

25. The transfer chamber comprises: an upper portion that is open to the flexible separator but is airtight when the flexible separator is joined; a bottom formed opposite the flexible standoff; and 25. The fluid transfer pumping device of claim 24, including a perimeter formed between the top and bottom.

26. 26. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 25, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the top portion is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the bottom portion, and the peripheral edge portion is formed to form an inclined surface.

27. When positive pressure is applied to the transfer chamber through the flexible isolator, the flexible separator deforms toward the bottom in accordance with the shape of the inclined surface to discharge the fluid to be transported; When negative pressure is applied to the transfer chamber through the flexible isolator, 27. The fluid transfer pump device of claim 26, wherein the flexible separator deforms in a direction opposite to the bottom portion to suck in the fluid to be transferred.

28. an inlet into which the fluid to be transferred is input; and 26. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 25, wherein a discharge port through which the fluid to be transferred is discharged from the transfer chamber is formed in the peripheral edge portion.

29. 29. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 28, wherein the inlet and outlet are formed to face each other on the peripheral edge portion.

30. an intake passage extending from the intake port; and 29. The fluid transfer pump device of claim 28, further comprising a discharge passage extending from the discharge port.

31. 31. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 30, wherein the suction passage and the discharge passage are formed at an incline so as to face outward relative to the suction port and the discharge port, respectively.

32. 31. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 30, wherein the suction passage and the discharge passage are formed so that the cross-sectional area increases with increasing distance from the transfer chamber.

33. 26. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 25, wherein suction and discharge ports for inputting and outputting the fluid to be transferred are formed in the bottom portion.

34. A connecting passage extending from the suction / discharge port; and 34. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 33, further comprising an intake passage and a discharge passage branched from the connecting passage.

35. an intake valve connected to the intake passage, allowing the fluid to be transferred to the transfer chamber and blocking its output; and 35. The fluid transfer pump device according to claim 34, further comprising a discharge valve connected to the discharge passage, allowing the fluid to be transferred to the transfer chamber and blocking its input.

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