Filtration device, filter fixing jig, and filtration method

Abstract

To maintain airtightness between a filter container and an elastic body, and attach / remove the filter container easily with a small amount of force, by separating a site that performs airtightness between the filter container and the elastic body and a site that fixes the filter container.SOLUTION: A filtering device comprises: a funnel 10 having an inlet 11 into which a liquid sample is input, and an outlet 12 having a smaller opening area than the inlet 11; a filter container 20 having a filter 23 into which a tip having the outlet 12 of the funnel 10 is inserted, and which collects a target contained in the liquid sample; a rubber stopper 40 having a through hole 41 that serves as a flow path for the liquid sample having passed through the filter 23; and a filter fixing jig 30 that supports the filter container 20 by coming into contact with the filter container 20, and presses the filter container 20 against the rubber stopper 40.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0005] ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a filtration device, a filter fixing jig, and a filtration method for collecting fine particles such as microorganisms and substances to be analyzed from liquid samples such as water, pharmaceuticals, reagents, beverages, and cosmetics.

Background Art

[0002] The membrane filter method is a method of filtering a liquid sample with a membrane filter and collecting and detecting fine particles on the filter and substances having an affinity for the filter. For example, when detecting bacteria from a liquid sample of 10 mL or more, it is difficult to directly add the entire sample volume to an enrichment medium, so concentration of bacteria by filter filtration is required. Further, the membrane filter method is also used for the purpose of removing a substance that inhibits analysis when the substance is present in the liquid.

[0003] Generally, for filter filtration, a device for suction filtration called a suction manifold is used. The suction manifold consists of a base pipe, a suction pump connected to the pipe, and an adapter. By fixing a filter container on the adapter and applying a negative pressure to the downstream side of the filter with the suction pump, suction filtration is performed. By connecting a funnel sized according to the volume of the liquid sample to the filter container, it becomes possible to filter a sample with a large volume.

[0004] The membrane filter method is also used for detecting bacteria (bacteria, fungi) in liquid samples. In the conventional method for detecting bacteria, after filtering a sample with a 47 mm diameter membrane filter, the filter is placed on an agar medium to grow bacteria on the filter, and colonies formed on the medium are visually detected. Alternatively, after filtering a sample with a membrane filter, the filter is put into a liquid medium to grow bacteria and the turbidity of the medium is visually detected. This method has the drawback that it takes 1 day to several days for the bacteria to grow to a visible number, and the test time is long.

[0005] Therefore, as a method to detect bacteria more quickly than visual inspection, techniques have been developed to detect substances contained in bacterial cells (such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence, nucleic acid amplification, and immunological methods), as well as measurement techniques such as solid-phase cytometry that directly count bacteria. In these methods, improving the concentration rate of bacteria leads to improved sensitivity of bacterial detection. Therefore, a method is employed to improve the number of bacteria per unit area of ​​the filter by filtering with a smaller diameter filter than conventional methods. For example, using a 10 mm diameter filter improves the concentration rate by approximately 20 times compared to a 47 mm filter. This is also true for analyses other than bacterial detection, such as when collecting fine particles in a liquid sample on a filter and measuring the amount of organic matter, or when collecting antigens in a liquid sample using a filter on which antibodies with affinity for the antigen are immobilized and detecting them by fluorescence.

[0006] Filtration of large-volume liquid samples using small-diameter filters is performed by connecting a funnel with a larger diameter than the filter container to the filter container. Here, a method is needed to fix the unstable shape of the small-diameter filter container connected to the large-diameter funnel upright while maintaining airtightness of the flow path. In order to fulfill the user's request to perform filtration using a suction manifold manually, as in the past, rather than introducing a special filtration device, a jig is needed to fix the filter container and funnel to the adapter of the suction manifold.

[0007] Patent Document 1 discloses a device configuration in which a funnel is connected to the primary side of a filter container and a suction channel is connected to the secondary side. Patent Document 1 also discloses a device configuration in which the filter container and funnel are individually connected to a movable device, thereby realizing automation of attaching and detaching the filter container, funnel, and channel. However, in order to meet the demands of users who want to perform filtration manually using conventional suction manifolds, a technology was needed that could easily attach and detach the filter container and funnel by hand. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-139704 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] When analyzing substances concentrated in a liquid on a filter, a smaller filter diameter results in a higher concentration rate and improved analytical sensitivity. To securely fix an unstable structure—a small-diameter filter container connected to a large-diameter funnel—while maintaining airtightness, the filter container is typically inserted into a fixing device containing a perforated rubber stopper or O-ring, and then secured at the point where the outer surface of the filter container contacts the rubber stopper or O-ring. In this case, the fixing of the filter container and the airtightness of the flow path are handled by the same part of the side of the filter container (the part where the rubber stopper or O-ring makes contact). Therefore, if it is necessary to remove the filter container after filtration to analyze the substances collected on the filter, a problem arises where the filter container must be pulled out with considerable force due to friction between the rubber stopper or O-ring. Assuming a user wants to perform filtration manually as before, this would involve manually pulling out the small filter container with considerable force. In this case, there is a high risk of inadvertently touching the inside of the filter container or dropping it, contaminating it and reducing the accuracy of subsequent analysis.

[0010] Therefore, the present disclosure aims to provide a filtration device, a filter fixing jig, and a filtration method that maintain airtightness between the filter container and the elastic body, and allow the filter container to be easily attached or removed with minimal force, by separating the part that provides airtightness between the filter container and the elastic body from the part that fixes the filter container. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The filtration apparatus of the present disclosure is a filtration apparatus for filtering a liquid sample, comprising: a funnel having an inlet into which the liquid sample is introduced and an outlet with an opening area smaller than that of the inlet; a cylindrical filter container having an inlet and an outlet to which the tip of the funnel having the outlet is connected, and a filter between the inlet and the outlet for collecting objects contained in the liquid sample; an elastic body having a through hole that serves as a flow path for the liquid sample that has passed through the filter, with the area around the inlet of the through hole in contact with the filter container; and a filter fixing jig that abuts against the filter container to support it and presses the filter container against the elastic body, wherein the filter fixing jig presses the filter container against the elastic body, thereby airtightly sealing the area around the inlet of the through hole of the elastic body with a contact surface corresponding to the area around the inlet of the filter container. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to this disclosure, by separating the part that provides airtightness between the filter container and the elastic body from the part that fixes the filter container, it becomes possible to maintain airtightness between the filter container and the elastic body while easily attaching or detaching the filter container with little force.

[0013] Other issues, configurations, and effects not mentioned above will be clarified in the following description of the embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the filtration apparatus in Example 1. [Figure 2] This is a flowchart showing a method of filtration using the filtration apparatus of Example 1. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the filtration apparatus in Example 2. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the filtration apparatus in Example 3. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the filtration apparatus in Example 4. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the filtration apparatus in Example 5. [Figure 7] This is a six-view drawing showing an example of the filter fixing jig for Example 6. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 6. [Figure 9] It is a six-view drawing showing an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 7. [Figure 10] It is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 7. [Figure 11] It is a six-view drawing showing an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 8. [Figure 12] It is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 8. [Figure 13] It is a view showing an example of the filtration device of Example 9. [Figure 14] It is a six-view drawing showing an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 10. [Figure 15] It is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 10. [Figure 16] It is a flowchart showing a method of performing filtration using the filtration devices of Examples 9 and 10.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0015] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail based on the drawings. In the following embodiments, it is needless to say that the constituent elements are not necessarily essential except in cases where they are particularly specified or considered to be clearly essential in principle.

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described while referring to the drawings.

EXAMPLE

[0017] FIG. 1 is a view showing an example of the filtration device of Example 1. Referring to FIG. 1, the configuration of the filtration device 1 of Example 1 will be described. (A) of FIG. 1 is a view showing a state where the filtration device 1 of Example 1 is attached to the adapter 60, (B) is a view showing a state where the filter container 20 is disassembled, and (C) is a view showing a state where the filter fixing jig 30 is disassembled.

[0018] (Configuration of filtration device 1) The filtration device 1 comprises a funnel 10, a filter container 20, a filter fixing jig 30, and an elastic body 40. This filtration device 1 is a device for filtering liquid samples. The elastic body 40 in Example 1 is a commercially available perforated rubber stopper. Hereinafter, the elastic body 40 will be referred to as the perforated rubber stopper 40 or rubber stopper 40. The structure comprising the funnel 10, filter container 20, and filter fixing jig 30 can be attached to and detached from this commercially available perforated rubber stopper 40. The perforated rubber stopper 40 has the advantage of being reusable and easy to handle by hand. As long as the diameter D41 of the through hole 41 of the perforated rubber stopper 40 is smaller than the outer diameter D24 of the filter container 20 (cover 22), it can be used with the filtration device 1, thus having the advantage of being able to use a commercially available perforated rubber stopper 40. An adapter 60 can be connected to the upstream side of the suction manifold 50, and the perforated rubber stopper 40 is attached to this adapter 60. Furthermore, a suction pump 70 can be connected to the downstream side of the suction manifold 50. The liquid sample introduced into the funnel 10 passes through the filter container 20, the perforated rubber stopper 40, the adapter 60, and the suction manifold 50 in that order, driven by the suction pump 70.

[0019] The suction manifold 50 is a commercially available product, for example, a laboratory manifold from Pall (Product ID: 4889). The adapter 60 is an adapter that can be connected to this suction manifold 50, for example, a standard laboratory manifold adapter from Pall (Product ID: 4892). The suction manifold 50 may also be a suction manifold from Merck (catalog number: EZFITH0LD3). If a Merck suction manifold is used, the parts can be attached without tools, and maintenance such as cleaning and sterilization is easy. The manifold exemplified above can be fitted with a cup-shaped adapter 60, and a rubber stopper 40 that fits the size of the adapter 60 is fitted onto this adapter 60. The outer surface of the rubber stopper 40 and the inner surface of the adapter 60 are in contact, maintaining airtightness of the liquid sample flow path.

[0020] (Funnel 10) Funnel 10 is made of a sterilizable material, such as metal or resin. A metal funnel offers high durability, can be repeatedly washed and sterilized, and is economical. On the other hand, a resin funnel is inexpensive, and its disposable nature eliminates the need for cleaning, improving convenience. Furthermore, using a transparent resin funnel allows for visual confirmation of the filtration progress from outside the clean bench.

[0021] The funnel 10 has an inlet 11 into which the liquid sample is introduced, and an outlet 12 with a smaller opening area than the inlet. Specifically, the opening area of ​​the inlet 11 is at least four times larger than the opening area of ​​the outlet 12. The inner diameter D11 of the inlet 11 of the funnel 10 is larger than the inner diameter D21 of the filter container 20 (filter body 21). The funnel 10 also has a volume capable of holding about 100 mL of liquid. The volume of the funnel 10 can be appropriately selected according to the amount of liquid sample. The outer diameter D12 of the outlet 12 of the funnel 10 is approximately the same as the inner diameter D21 of the filter body 21. Therefore, by inserting the lower tip of the funnel 10 into the filter container 20, airtightness is maintained between the funnel 10 and the filter container 20.

[0022] (Filter container 20) The filter container 20 has a filter body 21 and a cover 22 that covers the outer circumferential surface of the filter body 21. The filter container 20 of Example 1 is a filter assembly consisting of two parts: the filter body 21 and the cover 22. The filter body 21 and the cover 22 are substantially cylindrical, and a filter 23 is fixed to the bottom surface of the filter body 21. The effective area of ​​the filter (the area of ​​the entire filter that filters the sample liquid) is substantially the same as the area of ​​the inside of the bottom surface of the filter body 21. The shape of the filter body 21 and the cover 22 is not limited to a perfect cylinder; it may be a polygonal cylinder or an elliptical cylinder as long as it is cylindrical. Also, the diameters of the filter body 21 and the cover 22 may be non-uniform. The filter 23 collects the target substances contained in the liquid sample. The tip of the funnel 10 having the outlet 12 is inserted into the filter body 21. Here, the tip of the funnel 10 having the outlet 12 is inserted into the filter body 21, but it is sufficient if the tip of the funnel 10 having the outlet 12 and the filter body 21 are connected. The outer diameter D22 of the part of the filter body 21 that is inserted into the cover 22 is approximately the same as the inner diameter D23 of the cover 22. Therefore, the outer circumferential surface of the part of the filter body 21 that is inserted into the cover 22 is in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the cover 22, and airtightness is maintained between the filter body 21 and the cover 22. In addition, the outer diameter D24 of the bottom surface 24 of the cover 22 is larger than the diameter D41 of the through hole 41 of the rubber stopper 40. Therefore, the bottom surface 24 of the cover 22 abuts against the upper surface 42 of the rubber stopper 40, and airtightness is maintained. The funnel 10 may also be prepared in a state where it is pre-connected to the filter container 20. Alternatively, the inner diameter of the outlet of the funnel 10 and the outer diameter of the inlet of the filter container 20 may be made approximately the same, and the inlet portion of the filter container 20 may be inserted into the outlet portion of the funnel 10. Or, a component with a structure in which the funnel 10 and the filter container 20 are joined may be manufactured by integral molding of a material such as resin, and it may be possible to break and separate the funnel 10 and the filter container 20 at a certain position after filtration. Furthermore, the filter container 20 may be tapered, and the inlet area may be shaped to have a large effective filter area.

[0023] (Filter fixing jig 30) The filter fixing jig 30 has a base 31 and a retainer 32. The retainer 32 contacts the filter container 20 and supports the filter container 20. The base 31 fixes the retainer 32, which presses the filter container 20 against the perforated rubber stopper 40. The base 31 is fitted onto the top of the rubber stopper 40 and fixed to the rubber stopper 40. The base 31 has a tapered base fixing portion 33 that fits onto the top of the rubber stopper 40. The base 31 also has a filter housing portion 34 that accommodates part or all of the filter container 20. A male threaded portion 35 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the filter housing portion 34. A female threaded portion 36 is formed on the portion of the retainer 32 that faces the male threaded portion 35. The retainer 32 is fixed to the base 31 by screwing the female threaded portion 36 into the male threaded portion 35. A threaded portion may be provided on the inner circumferential surface of the filter housing 34, and a threaded portion may be provided on the outer circumferential surface of the retainer 32.

[0024] The inner diameter D31 of the filter housing 34 is larger than the outer diameter D24 of the cover 22. Therefore, the filter container 20 can be easily inserted into and removed from the filter housing 34 without frictional resistance. In addition, the retainer 32 has a filter support portion 37 that abuts against the upper surface 25 of the filter body 21. This filter support portion 37 abuts against the upper surface 25 of the filter body 21 and restricts the upward movement of the filter body 21. The filter support portion 37 presses the filter container 20 against the perforated rubber stopper 40, creating an airtight seal around the entrance of the through hole 41 of the perforated rubber stopper 40 with a contact surface corresponding to the entrance of the filter container 20. The inner diameter D32 of the filter support portion 37 is smaller than the outer diameter D25 of the upper surface 25 of the filter body 21. Furthermore, a funnel support portion 38 is provided on the upper part of the retainer 32 to support the funnel 10 and prevent lateral movement of the funnel 10.

[0025] (Rubber stopper with hole, 40) The perforated rubber stopper 40 is positioned downstream of the filter container 20 and contacts the bottom surface 24 of the filter container 20. The perforated rubber stopper 40 has a through hole 41 that serves as a flow path for the liquid sample that has passed through the filter 23. The base 31 described above is fitted into the perforated rubber stopper 40.

[0026] (Method of filtration using the filtration device 1 of Example 1 (filtration method)) Figure 2 is a flowchart showing the filtration method using the filtration apparatus of Example 1. The filtration method using the filtration apparatus 1 of Example 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 2.

[0027] First, the user prepares the suction manifold 50, the rubber stopper with a hole 40, and the filter fixing jig 30, and cleans and sterilizes each of them (step S201). It is desirable to periodically scrub the suction manifold 50 and the rubber stopper with a hole 40 to reduce the substances to be measured. For example, if the purpose of the test is bacterial detection, autoclaving should be performed, and the equipment should be placed in a clean environment such as a clean bench, and the filtration operation should be performed aseptically thereafter. The base 31 and the retainer 32 should also be scrubbed clean and sterilized.

[0028] The user also sterilizes the funnel 10 and the filter container 20. The filter body 21 is sterilized while housed in the cover 22 (step S202).

[0029] Next, the user prepares the liquid sample (step S203).

[0030] The user installs a rubber stopper with a hole 40 onto the adapter 60 connected to the suction manifold 50 (step S204).

[0031] Then, the user fixes the base 31 to the rubber stopper 40 by fitting the upper part of the rubber stopper 40 into the base fixing part 33 of the base 31 (step S205).

[0032] The user inserts the filter container 20 into the filter housing 34 of the base 31, which is fixed to the rubber stopper 40, and stands it upright (step S206). At this point, the filter container 20 is merely resting on the rubber stopper 40, and there is no airtight seal between the top surface 42 of the rubber stopper 40 and the bottom surface 24 of the cover 22.

[0033] Here, the user screws the retainer 32 into the base 31 to fix the filter container 20 (step S207). When the female threaded portion 36 of the retainer 32 is screwed vertically downward (Z direction in Figure 1) into the male threaded portion 35 of the base 31, the filter support portion 37 on the inner upper surface of the retainer 32 comes into contact with the upper surface 25 of the filter body 21. Further screwing the retainer 32 into the base 31 presses the filter container 20 vertically downward against the rubber stopper 40. This operation fixes the filter container 20 in an upright position and maintains airtightness between the upper surface 42 of the rubber stopper 40 and the bottom surface 24 of the cover 22. Note that if the retainer 32 presses the filter container 20 too hard against the rubber stopper 40, the rubber stopper 40 may be deformed or damaged. Therefore, the screwing distance of the retainer 32 into the base 31 may be limited to a certain value to limit the pressing distance. The maximum allowable value of the pressing distance (the distance the filter container 20 is moved in the direction of the rubber stopper 40 from the state in which the filter container 20 is placed on the upper surface 42 of the rubber stopper 40) depends on the hardness of the rubber stopper 40, and is preferably within 2 mm, for example.

[0034] The shape of the liquid sample channel may be cylindrical or other than cylindrical. For example, the shape of the through-hole 41 in the rubber stopper 40 can be any shape other than cylindrical. The inlet and outlet may have different shapes and cross-sectional areas. However, in order to maintain airtightness, the contact surfaces where the cover 22 and the rubber stopper 40 meet must be continuous so as to surround the liquid channel.

[0035] Next, the user connects the sterilized funnel 10 to the upstream side of the filter body 21 (step S208). At this time, since the filter container 20 is fixed upright, the funnel 10 can be kept upright even when connected. In addition, the funnel support part 38 at the top of the retainer 32 supports the funnel 10, further stabilizing the upright position of the funnel 10. If the funnel 10 and filter container 20 are prepared in a pre-assembled state, the procedure is to make the filter container 20 with the funnel 10 assembled upright in step S206, and then screw the retainer 32 into the base 31 in step 207, making step S208 unnecessary.

[0036] The user pours the liquid sample into the upright funnel 10 (step S209).

[0037] The suction pump 70 connected to the suction manifold 50 is activated to suction filter the liquid sample (step S210). When the suction pump 70 is activated, the downstream side of the filter 23 becomes negatively pressurized, so the liquid in the funnel 10 is removed by passing through the filter body 21, filter 23, cover 22, rubber stopper 40, and adapter 60. As a result, only fine particles in the liquid sample and substances that bind to the filter 23 are collected by the filter 23.

[0038] When suction filtration is complete, the suction pump 70 is stopped (step S211).

[0039] Next, the user removes the funnel 10 from the filter body 21 (step S212). At this time, the user holds the filter fixing jig 30 (base 31 or retainer 32) with one hand and pulls the funnel 10 vertically upward (-Z direction) with the other hand. Alternatively, a U-shaped spatula can be inserted between the top of the retainer 32 and the funnel 10, and the funnel 10 can be removed by using the top of the retainer 32 as a fulcrum and pushing it upward using the lever principle.

[0040] Next, the user removes the retainer 32 from the base 31 (step S213).

[0041] Subsequently, the user removes the filter container 20 from the base 31 (step S214). Since the filter container 20 is simply resting on the upper surface 42 of the rubber stopper 40, the user can remove the filter container 20 without resistance.

[0042] The substance collected on the filter 23 of the removed filter container 20 is subjected to analysis for detection (step S215).

[0043] On the other hand, since the base 31 remains fixed to the perforated rubber stopper 40, the next filter container 20 can be inserted into the filter housing 34, made upright (step S206), and fixed in place (step S207) to repeatedly perform suction filtration. However, if the perforated rubber stopper 40 may become contaminated to the extent that it affects the next analysis due to the filtration of the previous liquid sample, the base 31 and the perforated rubber stopper 40 should be removed and replaced with cleaned ones.

[0044] (Method for detecting bacteria) The following describes an example of the procedure for using the filtration apparatus 1 of Example 1 in a method for detecting bacteria and fungi from a 100 mL water sample using the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence method.

[0045] The funnel 10 and filter container 20 are sterilized beforehand. It is also desirable that the perforated rubber stopper 40, retainer 32, base 31, adapter 60, and suction manifold 50 be sterilized. The filter 23, with a diameter of 6 mm and a hole diameter of 0.45 μm, is fixed to the bottom surface of the filter body 21. The outer diameter D24 of the cover 22 is 12 mm, the inner diameter D1 of the filter body 21 is 9 mm, and the capacity of the filter body 21 is 0.8 mL. The outer diameter D12 of the lower tip of the funnel 10 is 9 mm and fits inside the filter body 21. The upper part of the funnel 10 has an inner diameter D11 of 60 mm and a height of 60 mm, and can hold 100 mL of liquid. The hole diameter D41 of the perforated rubber stopper 40 is 9 mm, which is smaller than the outer diameter D24 of the cover 22, which is 12 mm. The inner diameter D31 of the filter housing 34 of the base 31 is 13 mm, which is larger than the outer diameter D24 of the cover 22, which is 12 mm.

[0046] The user inserts the base 31 into the rubber stopper 40 with a hole, inserts the filter container 20 into the filter housing 34 of the base 31, and screws in the retainer 32 to secure it. Then, the user inserts the funnel 10 into the filter body 21 and pours 100 mL of liquid sample into the funnel 10. When the suction pump 70 is activated, the liquid sample is filtered by suction. As a result, bacteria are collected on the filter 23, and the liquid is removed as filtrate. The user removes the funnel 10 and then the retainer 32, takes out the filter container 20, adds 400 μL of ATP scavenging solution (a reagent solution containing ATP-degrading enzyme) to the filter 23, and incubates at 37°C to remove any remaining free ATP from the filter 23. The filter container 20 is placed on a microtube and centrifuged to remove the ATP scavenging solution as filtrate. The filter body 21 is removed from the filter container 20 and placed on a measuring tube, and 50 μL of extract (a reagent solution that destroys bacterial cells and extracts ATP from within the bacterial cells) is added to the filter 23. The extract is collected in the measuring tube by centrifugal filtration. ATP luminescence reagent (a reagent solution that causes a luminescence reaction using the luciferin-luciferase reaction) is added to the measuring tube, and ATP is quantified by luminescence measurement. Since the amount of ATP is proportional to the amount of bacteria in the liquid sample, the original amount of bacteria can be determined. By filtering a 100 mL liquid sample, concentrating the bacteria on the filter 23, and extracting ATP with 50 μL of reagent, a 2000-fold concentration is achieved.

[0047] In the membrane filtration method, a commonly used method for detecting bacteria, a liquid sample is filtered through a membrane filter with a diameter of 47 mm and a pore size of 0.1 to 0.5 μm, and bacteria are collected on the filter. Compared to a 47 mm diameter filter, a 6 mm diameter filter can achieve approximately 60 times higher concentration, allowing for more sensitive detection.

[0048] Here, we have shown an example of detecting bacteria by ATP measurement, but the detection target is not limited to ATP. Bacteria can also be detected by detecting substances contained in the bacterial cell, such as lipids, sugars, proteins, and metabolites, or by detecting the activity of enzymes contained within the bacterial cell by adding a substrate. Furthermore, although we have shown an example of detecting bacteria here, the detection target is not limited to bacteria. It can also be used for analytical purposes to detect organic or inorganic fine particles contained in pure water or pharmaceuticals.

[0049] (Effects of Example 1) By using the filter fixing jig 30 of Example 1, the part that provides airtightness between the filter container 20 and the elastic body 40 can be separated from the part that fixes the filter container 20. Since airtightness and fixing are not performed in the same part, the filter container 20 can be easily removed by hand without frictional resistance when removing it. As a result, the risk of contamination of the filter 23 of the filter container 20 during the removal process can be reduced. Furthermore, by simply preparing the filter fixing jig 30, it becomes possible to filter with a small-area membrane filter using a commercially available suction manifold and rubber stopper.

[0050] On the other hand, as an alternative for fixing the filter container 20 and maintaining airtightness, one could consider matching the inner diameter D41 of the perforated rubber stopper 40 with the outer diameter D24 of the cover 22, and pushing the filter container 20 into the through-hole 41 of the perforated rubber stopper 40 to make the filter container 20 stand upright. In this case, since both fixing and airtightness are achieved on the outer surface of the cover 22, it is firmly fixed, but it becomes difficult to remove the filter container 20 from the rubber stopper 40. If the filter container 20 is small, it is especially difficult to remove by hand. In contrast, in the filtration device 1 of Example 1, fixing and airtightness are achieved not on the outer surface of the cover 22, but on the two horizontal surfaces of the filter container 20 (bottom surface 24 and top surface 25), making it easy to remove the filter container 20 with little force. Thus, in Example 1, the filter container 20 can be easily removed by hand, and compared to the conventional method which requires strong force to remove the filter container 20, the risk of dropping the filter container 20 or touching its interior and causing contamination can be reduced.

[0051] Note that the horizontal surfaces (bottom surface 24 and top surface 25) of the filter container 20 refer to surfaces that are at a 90-degree angle with respect to the vertical axis (Z direction in the figure) when the filter container 20 is upright. However, in order to allow the retainer 32 to apply a force vertically downward to the filter container 20, and for the filter container 20 and the elastic body 40 (rubber stopper 40) to apply force to each other in the vertical direction, the horizontal surfaces (bottom surface 24 and top surface 25) of the filter container 20 are permitted to be within a range of 90 ± 45 degrees with respect to the vertical axis.

[0052] Furthermore, the opening area of ​​the inlet 11 of the funnel 10 is at least four times the opening area of ​​the opening of the filter container 20 into which the tip of the funnel 10 is inserted. In Example 1, the filter container 20 can be stably fixed by the filter fixing jig 30, so that the funnel 10, which has a large opening area and is unstable, can be stably supported.

[0053] Furthermore, by making the diameter D41 of the through-hole 41 of the rubber stopper 40 smaller than the outer diameter D24 of the bottom surface 24 of the filter container 20, airtightness can be maintained between the area around the entrance of the through-hole 41 and the bottom surface 24.

[0054] Furthermore, by forming threaded portions 35 and 36 on the base 31 and the retainer 32, respectively, and screwing the retainer 32 into the base 31, the filter container 20 can be fixed more securely.

[0055] Furthermore, by providing the funnel support portion 38 on the retainer 32, the funnel 10 can be fixed more stably. [Examples]

[0056] Figure 3 shows an example of the filtration apparatus of Example 2. The configuration of the filtration apparatus 2 of Example 2 will be described with reference to Figure 3. Components similar to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0057] In Example 1, the base 31 of the filter fixing jig 30 was fixed to the rubber stopper 40, but in Example 2, the base 331 is fixed to the auxiliary adapter 350. Fixing the base 331 to the adapter 60 is expected to provide more stable fixing of the filter container 20 and funnel 10 than when they are fixed to an elastic body (rubber stopper 40). However, it is difficult to fix the base 331 to the adapter 60, which has a tapered cup with a large upper diameter for introducing the rubber stopper 40 and a small lower diameter. Therefore, in Example 2, the auxiliary adapter 350 is attached to the cup of the adapter 60. Specifically, the base 331 is fixed to the auxiliary adapter 350 by fitting the auxiliary adapter 350 and the base fixing part 333 of the base 331 together. Alternatively, the fixing of the base 331 to the auxiliary adapter 350 may be further strengthened by fixing screws 351. Alternatively, screw threads may be machined on both the base fixing part 333 and the auxiliary adapter 350, and they may be fixed by screwing them together.

[0058] (Effects of Example 2) By using the base 331 of Example 2, the base 331 can be fixed to the auxiliary adapter 350 without having to fix it to the elastic rubber stopper 40 or the adapter 60 with a special shape. Other effects are the same as in Example 1. [Examples]

[0059] Figure 4 shows an example of the filtration apparatus of Example 3. The configuration of the filtration apparatus 3 of Example 3 will be described with reference to Figure 4. Components similar to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0060] In Example 1, a rubber stopper 40 with a hole was attached to a commercially available adapter 60, but in Example 3, a base 431 was attached to the commercially available adapter 60.

[0061] First, a suction manifold 50 for filter filtration (see Figure 1) is prepared, and an adapter 60 with a cup-shaped tip is attached to the suction manifold 50. The base 431 in Example 3 is preferably made of a material that can be sterilized by high-pressure steam, such as stainless steel, aluminum, or hard plastic. The base 431 is fitted with an O-ring 441 for fixing and sealing the adapter 60, and an O-ring 442 for sealing the cover 22. The materials of the O-rings 441 and 442 are also preferably made of materials that can be sterilized by high-pressure steam, but since the O-rings 441 and 442 are inexpensive, they may be made of a material that can be sterilized and supplied in a sterilized state for disposable use.

[0062] The inner diameter D442 of the O-ring 442 is smaller than the outer diameter D24 of the cover 22. The inner diameter D434 of the filter housing 434 is larger than the outer diameter D24 of the cover 22. As a result, when inserting or removing the filter container 20 into or from the filter housing 434, the filter container 20 can be easily inserted or removed by hand without frictional resistance or force. The filter support portion 37 on the inner upper surface of the retainer 32 presses the filter container 20 vertically downward against the O-ring 442, fixing the filter container 20 in place and maintaining airtightness between the bottom surface 24 of the cover 22 and the O-ring 442.

[0063] (Effects of Example 3) In the configuration of Example 3, the base 431 can be directly fixed to the adapter 60, resulting in good stability. Furthermore, since airtightness is achieved using inexpensive O-rings 441 and 442, they can be disposable, eliminating the need for cleaning airtight parts and simplifying the work. Other effects are the same as in Example 1. [Examples]

[0064] Figure 5 shows an example of the filtration apparatus of Example 4. The configuration of the filtration apparatus 4 of Example 4 will be described with reference to Figure 5. Components similar to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0065] In Examples 1-3, a commercially available adapter 60 was used, but in Example 4, an original adapter 560 is used.

[0066] First, a suction manifold 50 for filter filtration (see Figure 1) is prepared, and the adapter 560 of Example 4 is attached to the suction manifold 50. The adapter 560 of Example 4 is made of a hard material that can be sterilized by high-pressure steam, such as metal or resin, and has an O-ring 561 fitted inside. The inner diameter D561 of the O-ring 561 is smaller than the outer diameter D24 of the cover 22. The adapter 560 has a filter housing 562, and the inner diameter D562 of this filter housing 562 is larger than the outer diameter D24 of the cover 22. When inserting or removing the filter container 20 into or from the filter housing 562, the filter container 20 can be easily inserted or removed by hand without frictional resistance or force. The filter support portion 37 on the inner upper surface of the retainer 32 presses the filter container 20 vertically downward against the O-ring 561, fixing the filter container 20 in place and maintaining airtightness between the bottom surface 24 of the cover 22 and the O-ring 561.

[0067] (Effects of Example 4) In the configuration of Example 4, the retainer 32 is directly fixed to the adapter 560, allowing for more stable fixing. Furthermore, since airtightness is achieved with an inexpensive O-ring 561, it can be disposable, eliminating the need for cleaning airtight parts and simplifying the work. Other effects are the same as in Example 1.

[0068] Furthermore, as a variation of the configuration in Example 4, it is also possible to prepare the filter container 20 with the O-ring 561 already bonded to its bottom surface. If the filter container 20 and the O-ring 561 are bonded together, the replacement of the O-ring 561 becomes unnecessary, requiring only the replacement of the filter container 20, thus simplifying the process. [Examples]

[0069] Figure 6 shows an example of the filtration apparatus of Example 5. The configuration of the filtration apparatus 5 of Example 5 will be described with reference to Figure 6. Components similar to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0070] Example 5 describes an example of maintaining airtightness at the end face 664 of the silicone tube 661.

[0071] In Example 5, the silicone tube 661 is inserted into the tube adapter 660. The silicone tube 661 is then secured by inserting a tube fixing component 662 between the tube adapter 660 and the silicone tube 661. The tube adapter 660 is stably fixed to a mounting base (not shown). The tube adapter 660 has a filter housing section 663 that accommodates the filter container 20.

[0072] The outer diameter D24 of the cover 22 is larger than the inner diameter D661 of the silicone tube 661 and smaller than its outer diameter D662. The end face 664 of the silicone tube 661 is smooth, and the filter support portion 37 on the inner upper surface of the retainer 32 presses the filter container 20 vertically downward against the end face 664 of the silicone tube 661, thereby fixing the filter container 20 in place and maintaining airtightness between the bottom surface 24 of the cover 22 and the end face 664 of the silicone tube 661.

[0073] (Effects of Example 5) Suction filtration can be performed by connecting the opposite end of the silicone tube 661 to the suction pump 70. Alternatively, suction filtration can be performed by creating negative pressure inside the tube by squeezing the outer surface of the silicone tube 661 with a peristaltic pump. By preparing multiple silicone tubes 661 that have been pre-cleaned by washing and sterilization, and replacing them after each filtration, filtration can always be performed through a clean flow path, reducing contamination of the filter container 20 and improving analytical accuracy. In addition, by using a transparent or translucent flow path such as the silicone tube 661, the progress of filtration can be visually confirmed. Other effects are the same as in Example 1.

[0074] Furthermore, the material of the silicone tube 661 can be any material with sufficient elasticity to maintain airtightness, and is not limited to silicone. [Examples]

[0075] Figures 7 and 8 show an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 6. Figure 7 is a six-view drawing of an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 6, and Figure 8 is a perspective view of the filter fixing jig of Example 6 and a cross-sectional view of the II section shown in Figure 7. The configuration of the filter fixing jig 730 of Example 6 will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Components similar to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0076] The filter fixing jig 730 of Example 6 consists of two parts. The filter fixing jig 730 comprises a base 731 and a retainer 732. The base 731 is fixed to a perforated rubber stopper 40 installed on an adapter 760 connected to a suction manifold 50 (see Figure 1). The base 731 and the retainer 732 are tapped and interlock with each other. A notch 733 is formed on the outer surface of the retainer 732 to facilitate manual screw installation and removal.

[0077] (Effects of Example 6) The configuration of Example 6 can be expected to have the same effects as Example 1. In addition, the formation of the notch 733 makes it easier to attach and detach the retainer 732 by hand. [Examples]

[0078] Figures 9 and 10 show examples of the filter fixing jig of Example 7. Figure 9 is a six-view drawing of an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 7, and Figure 10 is a perspective view of the filter fixing jig of Example 7 and a cross-sectional view of the II section shown in Figure 9. The configuration of the filter fixing jig 930 of Example 7 will be described with reference to Figures 9 and 10. Components similar to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0079] The filter fixing jig 930 of Example 7 consists of two parts. The filter fixing jig 930 comprises a base 931 and a retainer 932. An auxiliary adapter 950 is attached to the outside of an adapter 960 connected to a suction manifold 50 (see Figure 1). A rubber stopper 40 with a hole is installed inside the adapter 960. The base 931 is placed on top of the rubber stopper 40 with a hole. The inner diameter D931 of the base 931 is 0.5 to 2 mm larger than the outer diameter D950 of the auxiliary adapter 950. This makes it easy to attach and detach the base 931 from the auxiliary adapter 950, and by making the amount of engagement between the two 5 mm or more, lateral movement of the base 931 can be prevented.

[0080] The filter container 20 is housed in the filter housing section 934 of the base 931. A retainer 932 is placed on top of the base 931. In this state, there is a gap between the upper surface of the base 931 and the lower surface of the retainer 932, and this gap is 0.5 mm or more. By clamping the base 931 and the retainer 932 with the clamp 970, the filter container 20 is pressed against the perforated rubber stopper 40, forming an airtight passage.

[0081] Furthermore, if the clamp 970 has a shape that presses against the top surface of the filter container 20, the filter container 20 can be fixed by the clamp 970 and the base 931 without using the retainer 932.

[0082] (Effects of Example 7) The configuration of Example 7 can be expected to produce the same effects as in Example 2. Furthermore, by using the clamp 970, airtightness can be maintained between the retainer 932 and the base 931. [Examples]

[0083] Figures 11 and 12 show an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 8. Figure 11 is a six-view drawing showing an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 8, and Figure 12 is a perspective view of the filter fixing jig of Example 8 and a cross-sectional view of the II section shown in Figure 11. The configuration of the filter fixing jig 1130 of Example 8 will be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12. Components similar to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0084] The filter fixing jig 1130 (pressure clamp 1130) of Example 8 is composed of one part. A rubber stopper with a hole 40 is installed inside the adapter 60 connected to the suction manifold 50 (see Figure 1). The hole diameter D41 of the rubber stopper with a hole 40 is 0.3 mm or more larger than the outer diameter D24 of the filter container 20. Therefore, there is no friction when attaching or detaching the filter container 20 to the rubber stopper with a hole 40. Also, the hole diameter D41 of the rubber stopper with a hole 40 is 0.5 mm or more smaller than the outer diameter D1226 of the projection 1226 formed on the outer surface of the filter container 20. As a result, the projection 1226 catches on the edge of the hole in the rubber stopper 40. In this state, there is a gap between the hole in the rubber stopper 40 and the outer surface of the filter container 20, and the filter container 20 can be tilted left and right. Therefore, when the funnel 10 is attached to the filter container 20, the stability of the funnel 10 is not sufficient.

[0085] Therefore, in Example 8, the retainer 1130 is fixed to the rubber stopper 40. The retainer 1130 has a fixing portion 1131 that fits into the rubber stopper 40 with a hole. The retainer 1130 is fixed when the fixing portion 1131 is fitted into the rubber stopper 40 with a hole. At this time, the filter fixing portions 1132 and 1133 inside the retainer 1130 press the upper surface of the projection 1226 of the filter container 20 and the upper surface 25 of the filter container 20 in a vertical downward direction, so that airtightness is maintained between the lower surface of the projection 1226 and the upper surface of the rubber stopper 40 with a hole.

[0086] (Effects of Example 8) In Example 8, the projection 1226 formed on the filter container 20 can be used to maintain airtightness between the lower surface of the projection 1226 and the upper surface of the perforated rubber stopper 40. Also in Example 8, the filter container 20 can be fixed with only the retainer 1130 (without a base). Other effects are the same as in Example 1. [Examples]

[0087] Figure 13 shows an example of the filtration apparatus of Example 9. The configuration of the filtration apparatus 9 of Example 9 will be described with reference to Figure 13. Components similar to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0088] In Example 9, a filter container 1320 without a cover (for example, cover 22 in Figure 1) is fixed to a rubber stopper 40 with a hole. The filter fixing jig 1330 (presser 1330) in Example 9 is a single part, and the presser 1330 presses the upper surface of the projection 1326 of the filter container 1320 vertically downward, and the lower surface of the projection 1326 presses the upper surface of the rubber stopper 40 with a hole. At this time, the fixing part 1333 of the presser 1330 is fitted into the rubber stopper 40 with a hole. Here, the upper and lower surfaces of the projection 1326 may have an angle of up to 45° with respect to a plane perpendicular to the axis of the cylindrical filter container 1320. Also, the shape of the filter container 1320 is not limited to cylindrical. However, the lower surface of the projection 1326 and the area around the opening of the rubber stopper 40 must be in continuous contact to maintain airtightness, and it must also be connected to the outlet of the funnel to maintain airtightness.

[0089] (Effects of Example 9) This secures the filter container 1320. The opening 1332 of the retainer 1330 does not come into contact with the opening 1322 of the filter container 1320, thus reducing the risk of contamination from the opening 1322 of the filter container 1320. Furthermore, because the opening 1332 of the retainer 1330 is higher than the opening 1322 of the filter container 1320, the removal tool does not come into contact with the opening 1322 of the filter container 1320 when removing the funnel 10, thus reducing the risk of contamination from the opening 1322 of the filter container 1320. Other effects are the same as in Example 1. [Examples]

[0090] Figures 14 and 15 show examples of the filter fixing jig of Example 10. Figure 14 is a six-view drawing showing an example of the filter fixing jig of Example 10, and Figure 15 is a perspective view of the filter fixing jig of Example 10 and a cross-sectional view of the II section shown in Figure 14. The configuration of the filter fixing jig 1430 (pressure clamp 1430) of Example 10 will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. Components similar to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0091] The retainer 1430 in Example 10 is composed of one part. An auxiliary adapter 1450 is attached to the outside of the adapter 60 connected to the suction manifold 50 (see Figure 1). A rubber stopper with a hole 40 is installed inside the adapter 60. The hole diameter D41 of the rubber stopper with a hole 40 is 0.3 mm or more larger than the outer diameter D24 of the filter container 20. As a result, there is no friction when attaching or detaching the filter container 20 to the rubber stopper with a hole 40. Also, the hole diameter D41 of the rubber stopper with a hole 40 is 0.5 mm or more smaller than the outer diameter D1526 of the projection 1526 formed on the outer circumference of the filter container 20, so that the projection 1526 catches on the edge of the through hole 41 of the rubber stopper 40. In this state, there is a gap between the through hole 41 of the rubber stopper 40 and the outer surface of the filter container 20, and the filter container 20 can be tilted left and right, so when the funnel 10 is attached to the filter container 20, the stability of the funnel 10 is not sufficient.

[0092] Therefore, in Example 10, the retainer 1430 is fixed to the auxiliary adapter 1450. The retainer 1430 is provided with a screw hole 1431, and the retainer 1430 is firmly fixed to the auxiliary adapter 1450 by screws (not shown). At this time, the filter fixing parts 1435 and 1436 inside the retainer 1430 push vertically downwards against the upper surface of the projection 1526 of the filter container 20 and the upper surface of the inlet of the filter container 20, respectively, maintaining airtightness between the lower surface of the projection 1526 and the upper surface of the rubber stopper with hole 40.

[0093] (Effects of Example 10) The configuration of Example 10 allows the filter container 20 to be fixed with a single touch, and also facilitates the attachment and removal of the filter container 20. Furthermore, since the retainer 1430 can be fixed to the auxiliary adapter 1450 with screws, the filter container 20 can be fixed more stably. Other effects are the same as in Example 1.

[0094] (Method of filtration using the filter fixing fixture of Examples 9 and 10 (filtration method)) In Examples 9 and 10, since no base is used, the filtration procedure is as shown in Figure 16. Procedures similar to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0095] Specifically, after installing the rubber stopper 40 with a hole in the suction manifold 50 (S1601), the filter container 20 is inserted into the through hole 41 of the rubber stopper 40 and made to stand upright (S1602). Then, the retainer 1330 or 1440 is attached to fix the filter container 20 in place (S1603).

[0096] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, but includes various modifications. For example, the examples of embodiments described above are explained in detail to make this disclosure easier to understand, and are not necessarily limited to those having all the configurations described. Furthermore, it is possible to replace parts of the configuration of one embodiment with parts of another embodiment, and it is also possible to add parts of the configuration of another embodiment to the configuration of one embodiment. In addition, it is possible to add, delete, or replace parts of the configuration of each embodiment with parts of other configurations.

[0097] For example, in the above-described embodiment, an example of suction filtration was explained in which a suction pump 70 is driven. However, this disclosure is not limited to suction filtration using a suction pump 70. The liquid sample may be pressurized and filtered, or filtered by the weight of the liquid sample itself. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0098] 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9: Filtration device, 10: Funnel, 20: Filter container, 21: Filter body, 22: Cover, 23: Filter, 24: Bottom, 25: Top, 30, 730, 930, 1130, 1330, 1430: Filter fixing jig, 31, 331, 431, 731, 931: Base, 32, 732, 932: Retainer, 33: Base fixing part, 34, 434, 934: Filter housing part, 35: Male threaded part, 36: Female threaded part, 37: Filter support part, 38: Funnel support part, 40: Rubber stopper with hole, 41: Through hole, 42: Top, 50: Suction manifold, 60, 560, 760, 960: Adapter, 350, 950, 1450: Auxiliary adapter, 70: Suction pump, 351: Fixing screw, 441, 442, 561: O-ring, 562: Filter housing, 660: Tube adapter, 661: Silicone tube, 662: Tube fixing part, 663: Filter housing, 664: End face, 733: Notch, 970: Clamp, 1126, 1526: Projection, 1131: Fixing part, 1132, 1133, 1435, 1436: Filter fixing part, 1332: Opening, 1333: Fixing part, 1431: Screw hole

Claims

1. A filtration device for filtering a sample, A funnel having an inlet into which the sample is introduced, and an outlet with an opening area smaller than that of the inlet, A cylindrical filter container having an inlet and an outlet to which the tip of the funnel having the outlet is connected, and a filter between the inlet and the outlet for collecting objects contained in the sample, An elastic body having a through-hole that serves as a flow path for the sample that has passed through the filter, the area around the entrance of the through-hole contacts the filter container, The system includes a filter fixing jig that contacts the filter container to support it and presses the filter container against the elastic body, The filter fixing jig presses the filter container against the elastic body, thereby creating an airtight seal around the inlet of the through-hole in the elastic body with the contact surface corresponding to the inlet of the filter container. A filtration device characterized by the following features.

2. The opening area of ​​the inlet of the funnel is four times or more than the smaller of the opening area of ​​the opening of the filter container into which the tip of the funnel is inserted, or the effective area of ​​the filter. The filtration apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The contact surface of the filter container is a surface that has an angle of 90° ± 45° with respect to the direction in which the filter container is pressed against the elastic body. The filtration apparatus according to feature 1.

4. The diameter around the entrance of the through hole in the elastic body is smaller than the outer diameter of the contact surface of the filter container. The filtration apparatus according to feature 1.

5. The aforementioned filter fixing jig is A presser that contacts the filter container to support it and presses the filter container against the elastic body, Having a cover for fixing the aforementioned retainer The filtration apparatus according to feature 1.

6. The inner or outer surface of the retainer is threaded, and the surface of the cover facing the threaded inner or outer surface is also threaded. The retainer is screwed into the cover, thereby fixing the filter container in a position pressed against the elastic body. The filtration apparatus according to feature 5.

7. The pressing distance of the filter container against the elastic body by the filter fixing jig is within 2 mm. The filtration apparatus according to feature 1.

8. The filter fixing jig has a funnel support portion that supports the funnel. The filtration apparatus according to feature 1.

9. A filter fixing jig for fixing a cylindrical filter container, which is provided with a filter for filtering a sample, to an elastic body that is positioned downstream of the filter container and has a through hole that serves as a flow path for the sample that has passed through the filter, the area around the entrance of the through hole is in contact with the filter container, A filter housing section that houses at least a portion of the aforementioned filter container, The filter support portion comprises a filter support portion that abuts against the filter container housed in the filter housing portion to support the filter container, presses the filter container against the elastic body, and has an opening larger than the inner diameter of the filter container, The filter support portion presses the filter container against the elastic body, thereby creating an airtight seal around the inlet of the through-hole in the elastic body with the contact surface corresponding to the inlet of the filter container. A filter fixing jig characterized by the following features.

10. The contact surface of the filter container is a surface that has an angle of 90° ± 45° with respect to the direction in which the filter container is pressed against the elastic body. The filter fixing jig according to feature 9.

11. The device comprises a presser having the filter support portion and a cover for fixing the presser. The filter fixing jig according to feature 9.

12. The inner or outer circumferential surface of the retainer is threaded, and the surface of the cover facing the threaded inner or outer circumferential surface is also threaded. By screwing the retainer into the cover, the filter container is fixed in a state pressed against the elastic body. The filter fixing jig according to feature 11.

13. The distance at which the filter container is pressed against the elastic body by the filter support is 2 mm or less. The filter fixing jig according to feature 9.

14. The filter container further comprises a funnel support portion that supports a funnel attached to the filter container. The filter fixing jig according to feature 9.

15. A filter fixing jig comprising a cylindrical filter container having a filter for collecting objects contained in a sample, an elastic body having a through hole that serves as a flow path for the sample and the area around the entrance of the through hole contacts the filter container, and a filter support portion for fixing the filter container and having an opening larger than the inner diameter of the filter container, The filter support portion is brought into contact with the filter container to support the filter container. The filter container supported by the filter support is pressed against the elastic body, thereby creating an airtight seal around the inlet of the through-hole in the elastic body with the contact surface corresponding to the inlet of the container, and The method involves introducing the sample into the filter container through the opening and collecting the target object with the filter. A filtration method characterized by the following features.

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