Centrifuge tubes, single-tube centrifuge apparatus, single-tube centrifugation reaction method, and single-tube centrifugation system for continuous samples

Abstract

The centrifuge tube (1) includes an outer tube (101), a cap (102) that is fitted outside the outer tube (101) to close the outer tube (101), and an inner tube (103) provided inside the outer tube (101). The inner tube (103) includes an opening used to add the reaction mixture, a joining component (1031) that fixes the inner tube inside the outer tube, a reaction chamber (1032) used for the reaction, and a drain port (1034) communicating with the reaction chamber (1032).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a centrifugal tube, a single-tube centrifugation apparatus, and a single-tube centrifugation reaction method. Specifically, the present invention relates to a centrifugal tube capable of vertical centrifugation, a centrifugation apparatus capable of performing centrifugation with a single tube, and a single-tube centrifugation reaction method carried out using the centrifugal tube and the centrifugation apparatus. [Background Art]

[0002] With the rapid development of biotechnology at present, various automatic analysis methods and multi-sample analysis systems are continuously introduced. Driven by the development of these technologies, systematic sample analysis has become more convenient and rapid. However, for some biochemical analyses meeting special requirements, the required raw materials or consumables may be expensive, or samples are difficult to obtain, so they cannot be directly used in multi-sample analysis systems. [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0003] In addition, automatic analysis systems applicable to multiple samples require a combination of sufficient space and environment, and are usually installed in research centers or medical centers. However, clinics or research institutions located in rural or non-urban areas do not always have sufficient space for installation. When analysis results are required promptly, analysis methods and systems that occupy less space are needed.

[0004] Furthermore, based on different analysis objects, the number of collected samples and delivery time may also vary. Conventional analysis methods generally need to analyze a relatively large number of samples in one run to achieve better economic benefits, so there is also a need for a system that can flexibly respond to the number of samples and delivery time.

[0005] Accordingly, there is also market demand for analysis methods applicable to a small number of samples or continuous samples, as well as necessary instruments and consumables therefor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To achieve the above objective, the present invention provides a centrifugal tube. This includes an outer tube containing a first containment space, a cap fitted to the outer tube to seal the outer tube, and an inner tube located in the first containment space. The inner tube includes an opening used for adding a reaction mixture into the inner tube, a connecting component through which the inner tube is fitted into the outer tube, the inner tube of the centrifugal tube having the same axis as the outer tube, the direction from the tube opening to the bottom of the outer tube being the Z-axis, and the axis being a line connecting the center positions of a plane perpendicular to the Z-axis in the inner tube and the outer tube, a reaction chamber passing through the opening and containing and reacting the reaction mixture added from the opening, and having a first narrow opening between itself and the opening, and a first drain port connecting the reaction chamber to the first containment space and provided symmetrically in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis.

[0007] Preferably, the centrifugal tube further includes a first check valve provided at the first drain port, and the opening and closing of the first check valve is controlled by a first centrifugal force. When open, waste liquid in the reaction chamber is discharged from the reaction chamber through the first drain port into the first containment space.

[0008] Preferably, the reaction chamber includes a first reaction space and a second reaction space, the first reaction space being connected to the opening, and further including the first port between the first reaction space and the opening. A second port is included between the first reaction space and the second reaction space, the first drain port being located in the first reaction space, and the second reaction space including the second drain port.

[0009] Preferably, the system further includes a first check valve provided at the second drain port, the opening and closing of the first check valve is controlled by a first centrifugal force. When open, waste liquid in the reaction chamber is discharged from the reaction chamber through the second drain port into the first containment space.

[0010] Preferably, the centrifuge tube further includes a replenishment drug chamber, the replenishment drug chamber includes a drug chamber, a temporary holding chamber and a second check valve, the temporary holding chamber is connected to the reaction chamber.

[0011] Preferably, the second check valve is a mechanical valve, an electrically controlled valve, or a magnetically controlled valve.

[0012] Preferably, the centrifugal tube further includes a combination of a plurality of check valves and drain ports arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis.

[0013] Preferably, the narrow opening and the Z-axis exhibit an angle of 30 to 60 degrees.

[0014] Preferably, the narrow opening and the Z-axis exhibit an angle of 30 to 45 degrees.

[0015] Based on another objective of the present invention, a single-tube centrifuge is provided, comprising a centrifuge and a fixing component, the fixing component fixing the centrifuge tube, and the centrifuge having the same axis as the centrifuge tube.

[0016] Based on yet another object of the present invention, a single-tube centrifugation reaction method is further provided. This method includes adding a reaction mixture to the centrifugation tube and allowing it to react, attaching the centrifugation tube to the single-tube centrifuge and securing the centrifugation tube with the fixing components, and removing waste liquid by centrifugation of the centrifugation tube. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] Due to the above technical features, the present invention offers at least the following advantages. (1) The centrifuge tube of the embodiment of the present invention allows for operation with a single tube, and analysis can be performed without the need to prepare multiple samples.

[0018] (2) With the centrifuge tube and the single-tube centrifuge device according to the embodiment of the present invention, centrifugation can be easily performed in a single tube, and the waste liquid can be removed after the reaction, thereby reducing consumables.

[0019] (3) By combining the centrifuge tube, the single-tube centrifuge device and the single-tube centrifugal reaction method according to the embodiment of the present invention, biochemical analysis of a small number of samples can be performed quickly and easily. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an exploded schematic diagram of a centrifuge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a side schematic diagram of a centrifuge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective schematic diagram of a centrifuge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a drain port of a centrifuge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of a joined portion of a joining component and a cap of a centrifuge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a narrow opening of an inner tube of a centrifuge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective schematic diagram of an inner tube 103a according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a perspective schematic diagram of an inner tube 103a according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing a closed state and an open state of a supplementary drug chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a supplementary drug chamber according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a perspective schematic diagram of a single-tube centrifuge according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12]Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of a single-tube centrifuge based on another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the bottom shape of a centrifugal tube based on another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a process diagram of a single-tube centrifugal reaction method based on an embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] Examples are described in detail below with reference to relevant figures. However, these examples can be realized in various forms, and should not be understood as limiting the above examples, as they are not the only forms of implementing or utilizing specific examples of the present invention. The embodiments include features of several specific examples, as well as steps and sequences of methods for constructing and operating these specific examples. However, equivalent or identical functions and sequences of steps can also be achieved by utilizing other specific examples. Conversely, by providing these examples, this specification can be thoroughly and completely disclosed, fully and completely representing the spirit of the invention to those skilled in the art to which the invention belongs. Reference numerals for similar elements in the figures refer to similar elements. In the following description, known functions or structures will not be described in detail, and unnecessary details in the examples will not be described.

[0022] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and specialized terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art in the field to which this invention pertains. In the event of any inconsistency, this specification, including its definitions, shall prevail.

[0023] In a context consistent with the surrounding sentences, singular nouns used herein include their plural forms, and plural nouns used also include their singular forms. Furthermore, in this specification and the claims, expressions such as "at least one" and "one or more" have the same meaning, both indicating that one, two, three, or more are included.

[0024] The term "consisting essentially of" is used to define a composition, method, or apparatus that includes materials, processes, features, ingredients, or components other than those explicitly stated, with the limitation that these additional materials, processes, features, ingredients, or components do not significantly affect the fundamental and novel features of the claimed invention. The term "consisting essentially of" lies in an intermediate area between "comprising" and "consisting of."

[0025] The numerical ranges and parameters used to define the relatively broad scope of this invention are all approximate values, but here, the relevant values ​​in the specific examples are shown as accurately as possible. However, it is unavoidable that any value will inherently include a standard deviation due to individual measurement methods. Here, "approximately" usually means that the actual value is within plus or minus 10%, 5%, 1%, or 0.5% of a particular value or range. Alternatively, the word "approximately" means that the actual value is within the acceptable standard error of the mean, which is to be considered and determined by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. It should be understood that, except in the examples, or unless otherwise explicitly stated, all ranges, quantities, values ​​and percentages used in this text (e.g., used to describe material volume, length of time, temperature, operating conditions, ratios of quantities, and other similar things) are all modified by "approximately". Therefore, unless otherwise explicitly stated, the values ​​and parameters disclosed in this specification and the claims are all approximate values ​​and may vary as needed. At least these values ​​and parameters should be understood as values ​​obtained using the given number of significant figures and general carry methods. Here, a numerical range is expressed as the range from one endpoint to another, or between two endpoints. Unless otherwise specified, all numerical ranges described here include the endpoints.

[0026] The centrifugal tube, single-tube centrifuge, and single-tube centrifugation reaction method of the present invention will be described below with reference to specific examples.

[0027] First, please refer to Figures 1 to 6. Figure 1 is an exploded schematic diagram of a centrifugal tube 1 based on an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a side schematic diagram of a centrifugal tube 1 based on an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of a centrifugal tube 1 based on an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the drain port 1034 of a centrifugal tube 1 based on an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of the portion where the connecting part 1031 and the cap 102 are joined in a centrifugal tube 1 based on an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the first narrow opening 1035 of the inner tube 103 in a centrifugal tube 1 based on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] The centrifugal tube 1 of the embodiment of the present invention may include an outer tube 101, a cap 102, and an inner tube 103. The cap 102 can be fitted (for example, by fastening it with threads) onto the outer portion of the opening of the outer tube 101, thereby closing the outer tube 101. The inner tube 103 is provided in the containment space formed by the outer tube 101. The inner tube 103 may include a connecting component 1031, a reaction chamber 1032, a first check valve 1033, and a drain port 1034, and the connecting component 1031 can be fitted inside the opening of the outer tube 101. The first check valve 1033 may exemplary include a steel ball 1033a and a spring 1033b. In the embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the cap 102 may include a projection 1021 at a position corresponding to the connecting part 1031. When the cap 102 is fitted onto the outer tube 101 (for example, by fixing it with a screw thread), it can further tighten the joint part 1031 and stabilize the position of the inner tube 103.

[0029] In the following embodiment, the direction from the opening to the bottom of the centrifugal tube 1, outer tube 101, or inner tube 103 is the Z-axis, and the line connecting the center positions of planes perpendicular to the Z-axis in the inner tube and outer tube is the axis (e.g., the ZZ' connection line). When the inner tube 103 is fitted into the opening of the outer tube 101 via the connecting part 1031, the inner tube 103 is fixed in the housing space within the outer tube 101 so as to have the same axis as the outer tube 102, and can be held stably when the centrifugal tube 1 rotates and centrifuges. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the connecting part 1031 of the inner tube 103 can be fitted to the outside of the outer tube 101, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the inner tube 103 can be fixed in the outer tube 101 in any suitable manner.

[0030] As shown in Figure 4, the centrifugal tube 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a pair of drain ports 1034 arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis, and a first check valve 1033 is provided within them. The first check valve 1033 includes a steel ball 1033a and a spring 1033b. When the centrifugal tube 1 rotates and centrifuges, the pair of drain ports 1034 arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis can equilibrium the centrifugal tube 1 and prevent it from swaying. When stationary, the steel ball 1033a in the first check valve 1033 within the drain port 1034 closes the opening leading to the reaction chamber 1032 by the pushing force of the spring 1033b. When the rotational speed increases and the centrifugal force reaches a threshold, the centrifugal force acting on the steel ball 1033a is greater than the pushing force of the spring 1033b, compressing the spring 1033b. Next, the reaction chamber 1032 is connected to the drain port 1034, allowing the waste liquid in the reaction chamber 1032 to be discharged through the drain port 1034. When the centrifugal force is less than a threshold, the steel ball 1033a returns due to the pushing force of the spring 1033b, and subsequently closes the connection between the reaction chamber 1032 and the drain port 1034. The steel ball 1033a and the spring 1033b can have different arrangements, for example, the steel balls may have different weights and the spring may have different elasticity, thus meeting different needs. In another embodiment, a filter, filter paper, or semipermeable membrane may be included in the portion of the reaction chamber 1032 that connects to the drain port 1034.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the centrifugal tube 1 is used in combination with electromagnetic beads. To prevent the electromagnetic beads from flowing out of the drain port 1034 during centrifugation, they can be prevented from passing through by the filter, filter paper, etc. The overhead shape of the reaction chamber 1032 may be circular or polygonal. When the overhead shape of the reaction chamber is polygonal, the drain port 1034 can be provided at the symmetrical vertices of the polygon, thereby increasing the liquid discharge effect during centrifugation. According to another embodiment of the present invention, a magnetic field can be generated in the axial or circumferential portion of the centrifugal tube 1 by a magnetic field generating device, keeping the electromagnetic beads in the center of the centrifugal tube 1 and preventing them from being discharged during centrifugation.

[0032] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the drain port 1034 can be provided in a different manner, for example, as four or six drain ports arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis. In addition, the first check valve 1033 in the drain port 1034 is not limited to a combination of a steel ball and a spring, and can be controlled to open and close by electrical or magnetic control, and similarly removes waste liquid by centrifugal force. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first check valve 1033 can be provided at a position close to the axis of the inner tube 103 in the drain port 1034, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The first check valve 1033 can be provided at a position away from the axis of the inner tube 103 in the drain port 1034, or at any position where the check valve can be opened by centrifugal, electrical, or magnetic control, and waste liquid can be subsequently discharged.

[0033] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a first narrow opening 1035 can be provided between the reaction chamber 1032 and the tube opening in the inner tube 103. The first narrow opening 1035 is formed at an angle toward the axis from the inner wall of the reaction chamber 1032. When the centrifugal tube 1 is centrifuged around its axis, the reaction mixture in the reaction chamber 1032 moves toward the inner wall of the reaction chamber 1032 away from the axis due to centrifugal force. As the rotational speed increases, the centrifugal force increases, and the reaction mixture moves toward the tube opening along the inner wall of the reaction chamber 1032. To prevent the reaction mixture from overflowing from the tube opening during the centrifugal process, a first narrow opening 1035 is provided between the reaction chamber 1032 and the tube opening in the inner tube 103, thereby achieving this. The angle between the first narrow opening 1035 and the axis is 30 to 60 degrees, preferably 45 degrees. When centrifugation is performed and the reaction mixture moves along the inner wall of the reaction chamber 1032 toward the tube opening, the first narrow opening 1035, which is at a predetermined angle with the axis, can keep the reaction mixture inside the reaction chamber 1032 and prevent it from overflowing.

[0034] Next, please refer to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a schematic three-dimensional view of the inner tube 103a based on another embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] According to embodiments of the present invention, the centrifugal tube 1 of the present invention includes an inner tube 103a. The centrifugal tube 1 in this embodiment is the same as in the above embodiment except for the arrangement of the inner tube 103a, the other parts not described herein.

[0036] The reaction chamber 1032 of the inner tube 103a includes a first reaction space 1032a and a second reaction space 1032b, the inner diameter of the second reaction space 1032b being larger than that of the first reaction space 1032a. A second narrow opening 1035a is included between the first reaction space 1032a and the second reaction space 1032b. The angle between the second narrow opening 1035a and the Z-axis may be 30 to 60 degrees, preferably 30 to 45 degrees, and more preferably 45 degrees. After the reaction mixture is added to the reaction chamber 1032, it falls into the second reaction space 1032b and reacts (if the reaction mixture is relatively large, it may also fill the first reaction space 1032a), and after the reaction is complete, the centrifuge tube 1 can be centrifuged to remove the waste liquid. When centrifuged, the waste liquid moves toward the side wall portion of the second reaction space 1032b due to centrifugal force. As the centrifugal velocity accelerates, the waste liquid forms a donut shape on the side wall of the second reaction space 1032b. Simultaneously, the waste liquid also moves upward due to the centrifugal force to the side wall of the first reaction space 1032a, and is discharged from the first drain port 1034a of the first reaction space 1032a into the first containment space between the outer tube 101 and the inner tube 103a, allowing a predetermined volume of the reaction mixture to be held in the second reaction space 1032b. By retaining some of the liquid, suction can be facilitated when the reaction mixture contains magnetic beads or the like. In this embodiment, since no valve is provided at the drain port 1034a, the waste liquid is discharged directly into the first containment space. In another embodiment, a check valve as described above can be provided at the drain port 1034a to control the discharge of the waste liquid, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0037] Please also refer to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a schematic three-dimensional view of the inner tube 103a based on yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] The arrangement of the inner tube 103a in the centrifugal tube 1 of this embodiment is basically the same as in the above embodiment, and only the differences are described here. In this embodiment, the side wall of the second reaction space 1032b also includes a second drain port 1034b, and a check valve (not shown) is provided at the second drain port 1034b. After the reaction of the reaction mixture is completed in the second reaction space 1032b, some of the waste liquid can be discharged from the first drain port 1034a to the first containment space by centrifugation, as in the above embodiment. Preferably, when it is necessary to discharge all the liquid, the check valve provided at the second drain port 1034b can be opened by controlling the centrifugal force, and the waste liquid can be discharged from the second drain port 1034b to the first containment space. The above embodiment is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Multiple drain ports can be provided, or different types of valves can be provided, and filters, filter paper, or semipermeable membranes can be provided at the drain ports. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the amount of liquid remaining in the second reaction space 1032b can also be controlled by controlling the height of the second drain port 1034b in the second reaction space 1032b.

[0039] Next, please refer to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the closed (a) and open (b) states of the supplemental drug chamber 110 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Although only one side is shown as a schematic diagram in Figure 9, the present invention is not limited to this.

[0040] According to embodiments of the present invention, the centrifugal tube 1 of the present invention may further include a replenishment drug chamber 110, the number of replenishment drug chambers 110 can be determined by the amount of replenishment drug to be used. In embodiments, one replenishment drug chamber 110 may be provided in the inner tube 103, and the replenishment drug chamber 110 may include a drug chamber 111, a temporary holding chamber 112, and a second check valve 113. The second check valve 113 controls the opening and closing of the drug chamber 111 and the temporary holding chamber 112, and the temporary holding chamber 112 is connected to the inner tube 103. The threshold for opening the second check valve 113 may be different from that of the first check valve 1033. For example, the centrifugal force threshold for opening the second check valve 113 may be greater than that for the first check valve 1033. The initial state of the replenishment drug chamber 110 is as shown in part 9(a) of Figure 9, in which state the second check valve 113 closes the opening and the replenishment drug is stored in the drug chamber 111. After the reaction mixture passes through the inner tube 103 and is mixed in the reaction chamber 1032, it can be centrifuged at a first rotational speed, at which point the first check valve 1033 opens and the waste liquid of the reaction mixture is discharged from the drain port 1034. Subsequently, the rotational speed can be accelerated to a second rotational speed greater than the first rotational speed and centrifuged again. When the centrifugal force threshold of the second check valve 113 is reached, the second check valve 113 opens, and the replenishment agent in the agent chamber 111 falls into the temporary holding chamber 112, as shown in part 9(b) of Figure 9. When centrifugation stops, the replenishment agent falls into the inner tube 103 by gravity, reaches the reaction chamber 1032, and undergoes the next reaction with the reaction mixture present in the reaction chamber 1032. In addition, the second check valve may be electrically or magnetically controlled. In addition, when there is one replenishment drug chamber 110, a counterweight can be provided at a position symmetrical with respect to the axis in a plane perpendicular to the Z-axis of the centrifuge tube 1, thereby enabling equilibrium during centrifugation. Preferably, the replenishment drug chamber 110 is provided between the first narrow port 1035 and the tube opening. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the replenishment drug chamber 110 can be provided between the first narrow port 1035 and the reaction chamber 1032.

[0041] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of replenishment chambers can be provided symmetrically with respect to the axis in a plane perpendicular to the Z-axis of the centrifugal tube 1. For example, a first replenishment chamber and a second replenishment chamber can be provided, the structure of which the first and second replenishment chambers are similar to that of the above-described replenishment chamber, and each includes a first and second replenishment chamber, a first and second temporary holding chamber, and a third and fourth check valve, respectively. The centrifugal force thresholds at which the third and fourth check valves of the first and second replenishment chambers open are different. In actual operation, after the reaction mixture is mixed in the reaction chamber, it can be centrifuged at a first rotational speed, at which point the first check valve 1033 opens and the waste liquid of the reaction mixture is discharged from the drain port 1034. At this point, the rotational speed can be accelerated to a third rotational speed greater than the first rotational speed and centrifuged again. When the centrifugal force threshold of the third check valve is reached, the third check valve opens and the first replenishment drug in the first replenishment chamber falls into the first temporary holding chamber. When centrifugation stops, the first supplement agent falls into the inner tube 103 by gravity and then reaches the reaction chamber 1032, where it undergoes the next reaction with the reaction mixture present in the reaction chamber 1032. Subsequently, after the mixing reaction between the reaction mixture and the first supplement agent is complete, centrifugation is performed again at the first rotational speed, at which point the first check valve 1033 opens, and the waste liquid of the reaction mixture is discharged from the drain port 1034. Subsequently, centrifugation can be accelerated to a fourth rotational speed greater than the third rotational speed, and when the centrifugal force threshold of the fourth check valve is reached, the fourth check valve opens, and the second supplement agent in the second agent chamber falls into the second temporary holding chamber. When centrifugation stops, the second supplement agent falls into the inner tube 103 by gravity and enters the reaction chamber 1032, where it undergoes the next reaction with the reaction mixture present in the reaction chamber 1032. The above embodiment is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto. If necessary, the third and fourth check valves in the first and second replenishment drug chambers may have the same or different centrifugal force thresholds for opening.

[0042] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the supplemental drug chambers can be combined in a layered manner within the centrifuge tube 1. For example, as shown in Figure 10, the supplemental drug chambers can be arranged in an overlapping manner within the centrifuge tube 1. Specifically, the supplemental drug chamber in this embodiment can have the same or similar tube diameter as the inner tube 103 of the centrifuge tube 1, and contains the structure of the drug chamber, check valve, and temporary holding chamber of the supplemental drug chamber 110 described above, allowing for the addition of the necessary drug, and also has overlapping fitting parts (not shown). At the same time, the threshold of the check valve in the supplemental drug chamber is different from the threshold of the first check valve 1033 in the centrifuge tube 1. Therefore, the necessary drugs can be combined in an overlapping manner within the centrifuge tube 1, achieving the effect of adding the drug. In addition, when multiple supplemental drug chambers overlap, the thresholds of the check valves between them are different from each other.

[0043] In this embodiment, the supplemental agent chamber is provided symmetrically with respect to the axis of the centrifugal tube 1, and different supplemental agents are provided stacked on top of each other, avoiding the problem of insufficient space on the same plane making it difficult to provide multiple supplemental agents. Furthermore, for a single supplemental agent, a concentrated solution and a diluted solution of equal mass can be placed in a specific ratio within the symmetrical supplemental agent chamber. When the check valve opens and the supplemental agent flows into the temporary holding chamber, equilibrium of the centrifugal tube 1 can still be maintained.

[0044] Please refer to Figures 11 to 13. Figure 11 is a schematic three-dimensional view of a single-tube centrifuge 2 based on another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of a single-tube centrifuge 2 based on another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is a schematic view of the bottom shape of a centrifugal tube 1 based on another embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Based on another objective of the present invention, a single-tube centrifuge 2 is provided, which includes a centrifuge 201 and a fixing component 202 used to fix a centrifugal tube 1. The centrifuge 201 may include a motor 203 for providing centrifugal force. When in use, the centrifugal tube 1 is fixed to the centrifuge 201 by the fixing component 202, and different centrifugal forces are provided by providing different rotational speeds.

[0046] In this embodiment, the fixing component 202 can be provided only on the bottom portion of the outer tube 101 of the centrifugal tube 1, or it can also be provided on the cap 102 of the centrifugal tube 1 and the lid 201a of the centrifuge 201. The fixing component 202 can fix the centrifugal tube 1 in any manner, for example, by clamping it from the outside of the centrifugal tube 1, or, as shown in Figure 13, by providing a recess at the bottom of the centrifugal tube 1 to help fix the centrifugal tube 1 to the fixing component 202. The recess at the bottom of the centrifugal tube 1 can be a straight line, cross-shaped, square, polygonal, or any suitable shape that can stably fix it to the centrifuge 201. In this embodiment, since the rotation of the centrifugal tube 1 is powered by the motor 203, the fixing component 202 connected to the bottom of the centrifugal tube 1 is stably fixed to the centrifuge 201. In contrast, the fixing component 202 of the lid 201a of the centrifuge 201 can have a corresponding fixing structure to the cap 102 of the centrifuge tube 1, and is stably fixed within the single-tube centrifuge apparatus 2 without affecting the centrifuge of the centrifuge tube 1. In another embodiment, the centrifuge can accommodate multiple (i.e., more than one) centrifuge tubes 1 simultaneously, and each centrifuge tube 1 can be independently fixed to the centrifuge and centrifuged independently without the need to balance the weight.

[0047] Based on embodiments of the present invention, a single-tube centrifugation system for continuous samples can be provided. This system includes a platform, a single-tube centrifuge mounted on the platform, rails used to support and move the platform, an identification unit mounted on the rails, and a control module that controls the movement of the platform and further controls the centrifugation of the single-tube centrifuge. The single-tube centrifuge is a single-tube centrifuge as described in the above embodiments, and is applied to the centrifuge tubes described in the above embodiments.

[0048] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when a user receives a sample and uses a continuous sample single-tube centrifuge system, the sample and reagents are injected into the centrifuge tube, and an identification label is added for identification by an identification unit. The user places the centrifuge tube on a single-tube centrifuge on a platform on a rail, and a control module moves the platform to perform processes such as centrifugation and reagent addition at different positions. Furthermore, the identification unit confirms the progress of the analysis by identifying the identification label on the centrifuge tube. The identification label may be a barcode, a two-dimensional code, or any identifiable label. According to another embodiment of the present invention, additional equipment for adding reagents is not required as the necessary replenishment reagent chambers can be stacked. Preferably, the system can further include equipment such as heating, temperature reduction, and vibration to combine the needs of various experiments. Thus, multiple platforms on a rail and single-tube centrifuges on them allow for control of the movement of samples on the rail, and further, different reaction steps can be performed at different positions, eliminating the need to wait for a certain number of samples to be reached before starting the analysis. By utilizing an automated control system, processes such as reagent addition can be performed simply by controlling various rotation speeds using a replenishment reagent chamber, enabling the addition of a wide range of reagents and saving significant labor and materials.

[0049] Based on another objective of the present invention, a single-tube centrifugation reaction method is provided. As shown in Figure 14, the method includes the following steps: Step S1: Add the reaction mixture to the centrifuge tube and allow it to react. When the reaction mixture is added to the inner tube 103, it passes through the first narrow opening 1035 and falls into the reaction chamber 1032, where it reacts. Step S2: Place the centrifuge tube 1 in the single-tube centrifuge apparatus 2 and fix the centrifuge tube 1 with the fixing part 202. Step S3: Remove the reaction or waste liquid by centrifugation with the centrifuge 201. Depending on the experimental setup, the method may further include a step of releasing the drug in the replenishment drug chamber 110, and this objective can be achieved by changing the rotation speed of the centrifuge 201.

[0050] The above description is merely an example and not limiting. Any equivalent modifications or changes made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention should be included within the scope defined in the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0051] 1 Centrifuge tube 101 Outer tube 102 Cap 1021 Protrusion 103, 103a Inner tube 1031 Connecting parts 1032 Reaction Chamber 1032a First reaction space 1032b Second reaction space 1033 First check valve 1033a steel ball 1033b Spring 1034 Drain port 1034a First drain port 1034b Second drain port 1035 No. 1 Narrow 1035a Second narrow mouth 110 Refill drug chamber 111 Drug Chamber 112 Temporary holding chamber 113 Second check valve 2 Single-tube centrifuge 201 Centrifuge 201a Lid 202 Fixing parts 203 Motor S1~S3 process

Claims

1. An outer tube including the first containment space, A cap fitted to the outside of the outer tube to seal the outer tube, Including an inner tube located in the first containment space, The inner tube is An opening used for adding the reaction solution into the inner tube, A connecting component wherein the inner tube is fitted into the outer tube via the connecting component, the inner tube of the centrifugal tube has the same axis as the outer tube, the direction from the tube opening to the bottom of the outer tube is the Z-axis, and the axis is the line connecting the center positions of the plane perpendicular to the Z-axis in the inner tube and the outer tube, A reaction chamber is provided which is connected to the opening, contains the reaction mixture added through the opening and reacts with it, and further includes a first narrow opening between it and the opening, The reaction chamber is connected to the first containment space, and the system includes a first drain port provided symmetrically in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis. Centrifuge tube.

2. The invention further includes a first check valve provided at the first drain port, wherein the opening and closing of the first check valve is controlled by a first centrifugal force, and when the check valve is open, the waste liquid in the reaction chamber is discharged from the reaction chamber through the first drain port to the first containment space. The centrifugal tube according to claim 1.

3. The reaction chamber comprises a first reaction space and a second reaction space, wherein the first reaction space is connected to the opening, and further comprises a first narrow port between the first reaction space and the opening, and comprises a second narrow port between the first reaction space and the second reaction space, the first drain port is located in the first reaction space, and the second reaction space comprises a second drain port. The centrifugal tube according to claim 1.

4. The invention further includes a first check valve provided at the second drain port, wherein the opening and closing of the first check valve is controlled by a first centrifugal force, and when open, waste liquid in the reaction chamber is discharged from the reaction chamber to the first containment space via the second drain port. The centrifugal tube according to claim 3.

5. The invention further includes a replenishment drug chamber, the replenishment drug chamber comprising a drug chamber, a temporary holding chamber, and a second check valve, and the temporary holding chamber is connected to the reaction chamber. A centrifugal tube according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The second check valve is characterized by being a mechanical valve, an electrically controlled valve, or a magnetically controlled valve. The centrifugal tube according to claim 5.

7. The invention further includes a combination of multiple check valves and drain ports arranged symmetrically with respect to the aforementioned axis, The centrifugal tube according to claim 6.

8. The first narrow opening and the Z-axis are characterized by exhibiting an angle of 30 to 60 degrees. The centrifugal tube according to claim 1.

9. The second narrow opening and the Z-axis are characterized by exhibiting an angle of 30 to 45 degrees. The centrifugal tube according to claim 3 or 4.

10. The reaction mixture is added to a centrifuge tube according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and reacted, The system includes a centrifuge and a fixing component, the fixing component fixing the centrifuge tube, the centrifuge is a single-tube centrifuge with the same axis as the centrifuge tube, the centrifuge tube is attached to the centrifuge tube, and the fixing component fixes the centrifuge tube. The invention is characterized by comprising performing a reaction or removal of waste liquid by centrifuging the aforementioned centrifugal tube. A single-tube centrifugation reaction method.

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