Extracorporeal shock wave device for loading target material on carrier

Abstract

The present invention relates to an extracorporeal shockwave device for loading target material on a carrier. According to the present invention, the time needed for loading target material on a carrier can be greatly reduced, and the loading rate can also be greatly improved.

Description

Extracorporeal shock wave device that loads target substances into a delivery vehicle

[0001] The present invention relates to an extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target substance onto a carrier.

[0002] When a disease develops in the human body, it is crucial to deliver the drug to the target site at the precise time. To achieve this, liposomes, which are lipid bilayers with a structure similar to the membranes of intracellular organelles, are used to load the target substance (drug) into the liposome, and deliver the liposome loaded with the target substance to the target site.

[0003] Because the liposomes used in this method are not naturally occurring in the human body, they can trigger an immune response. To avoid this immune response and deliver the target substance to the desired site, extracellular vesicles are being considered as an alternative to liposomes.

[0004] Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a type of vesicle released outside of cells and transport biological substances such as proteins, fats, metabolites, and nucleic acids to recipient cells. These extracellular vesicles are considered likely to replace liposomes.

[0005] Electroporation can be used to load target substances into extracellular vesicles, but electroporation has the problem that the loading rate of target substances into extracellular vesicles is low and the loading time is long.

[0006] The background technology of the invention is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0136978 (published on December 8, 2020, title of the invention: Use of exosomes for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents).

[0007] The purpose of the present invention is to solve the above-described problems, and to provide an extracorporeal shock wave device that can not only drastically reduce the time for loading a target substance onto a carrier, but also improve the loading rate.

[0008] According to the present invention, an extracorporeal shock wave device can be provided, which includes an extracorporeal shock wave generator, a transmission member connected to the extracorporeal shock wave generator, and an extracorporeal shock wave converter that converts power supplied from the extracorporeal shock wave generator through the transmission member into an extracorporeal shock wave, wherein the extracorporeal shock wave converter irradiates an extracorporeal shock wave to load a target substance in a solution onto a transmission member configured to load the target substance onto the transmission member.

[0009] In addition, the extracorporeal shock wave generator may include an inlet formed in at least a part of the body, and a conversion container having at least one conversion container hole formed therein, wherein the solution is received in the conversion container hole, and the conversion container may be configured to be inserted into the inlet.

[0010] Additionally, the extracorporeal shock wave converter and the conversion vessel can move relative to each other.

[0011] Additionally, the device further includes a protective member surrounding at least a portion of the extracorporeal shock wave converter, wherein the protective member and the solution can come into contact.

[0012] In addition, it may further include a refrigerant supply path connected to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit and supplying refrigerant to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit, a refrigerant discharge path connected to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit and moving refrigerant discharged from the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit, and a cooler connected to the refrigerant supply path and the refrigerant discharge path and cooling the refrigerant.

[0013] In addition, the extracorporeal shock wave converter is disposed at the bottom of the conversion container, a coolant is disposed between the extracorporeal shock wave converter and the conversion container, and the extracorporeal shock wave generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter can proceed to the conversion container hole.

[0014] In addition, the apparatus further includes a reflector surrounding at least a portion of the extracorporeal shock wave converter, and the extracorporeal shock wave generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter can be reflected by the reflector and travel to the conversion container hole.

[0015] Additionally, the extracorporeal shock wave converter may have a longitudinal direction, and the reflector may have a longitudinal direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the extracorporeal shock wave converter.

[0016] In addition, it may further include at least one supply container for containing a carrier or a target substance, a first flow path connected to the supply container and the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit to move the carrier or the target substance contained in the supply container to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit, a coolant supply flow path connected to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit to supply a coolant to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit, a coolant discharge flow path connected to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit to move the coolant discharged from the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit, a cooler connected to the coolant supply flow path and the coolant discharge flow path to cool the coolant, a second flow path for moving a solution discharged from the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit, a pump connected to the second flow path to move the solution, a third flow path connected to the second flow path to move a portion of the solution to a test specimen storage container, and a fourth flow path connected to the pump and the storage container to move the solution to the storage container.

[0017] In addition, the extracorporeal shock wave converter further includes a conversion path through which the solution moves and has a longitudinal direction, at least a portion of the conversion path is in contact with the refrigerant, and the extracorporeal shock wave converter can be in contact with the refrigerant.

[0018] In addition, the longitudinal direction of the conversion path is arranged to be parallel to the vertical direction, and the solution can move from one side of the conversion path to the other side.

[0019] In addition, the longitudinal direction of the conversion channel is arranged to be perpendicular to the vertical direction, and the solution can move from one side of the conversion channel to the other side.

[0020] Additionally, the converter may further include a stirrer disposed inside the converter.

[0021] In addition, the apparatus may further include a second extracorporeal shock wave converter that converts the power supplied through the transmission member into an extracorporeal shock wave and is connected in parallel with the extracorporeal shock wave converter.

[0022] According to the present invention, the time required to load a target substance onto a carrier can be significantly reduced, and the loading rate can also be significantly improved.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an extracorporeal shock wave device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] [Revised 22.12.2023 by Rule 91] FIG. 2 shows a plan view of converters according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 shows a converter arranged on the upper side of the converter container of the present invention, FIG. 4 shows a converter arranged on the lower side of the converter container of the present invention, FIG. 5 shows a converter arranged on the side of the converter container of the present invention, FIG. 6 shows a converter arranged on the lower side of the container of the present invention, FIGS. 7 and 8 show an embodiment of an extracorporeal shock wave converter, FIG. 9 shows an extracorporeal shock wave generated from an extracorporeal shock wave converter of the present invention being transmitted to a plurality of tubes, and FIG. 10 shows an extracorporeal shock wave generated from an extracorporeal shock wave converter of the present invention being transmitted to a plurality of tubes.

[0025] [Revised 22.12.2023 under Rule 91] Figure 11 shows a plan view of the conversion containers according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 12 shows a converter arranged on the lower side of the conversion container of the present invention, and Figure 13 shows an extracorporeal shock wave converter arranged on the lower side of the conversion container of the present invention.

[0026] [Revised 22.12.2023 under Rule 91] Figure 14 illustrates an embodiment in which a reflector is arranged in an extracorporeal shock wave converter of the present invention.

[0027] [Revised 22.12.2023 under Rule 91] Figure 15 shows the pressure change over time due to ultrasound, and Figure 16 shows the pressure change over time due to extracorporeal shock waves.

[0028] Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, an extracorporeal shock wave device for loading a target substance onto a carrier according to the present invention will be described. In this process, the thickness of lines and the sizes of components depicted in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity and convenience. Furthermore, the terms described below are defined based on their functions in the present invention and may vary depending on the intent or custom of the user or operator. Therefore, the definitions of these terms should be based on the contents of this specification.

[0029]

[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an extracorporeal shock wave device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] [Revised 22.12.2023 by Article 91 of the Rules] An extracorporeal shock wave device (1, hereinafter referred to as “extracorporeal shock wave device”) for loading a target substance into a delivery body may include a supply container (10), a first flow path (11), an extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20), an extracorporeal shock wave generator (30), a pump (40), a storage container (50), a cooler (60), and a conversion container (e.g., a conversion container (70) of FIG. 3).

[0032] According to one embodiment, the supply container (10) may include a first supply container (10-1) and a second supply container (10-2). The first supply container (10-1) and / or the second supply container (10-2) may accommodate a target material including a protein, RNA, etc. and / or a delivery vehicle including an extracellular vesicle, liposome, etc.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the first euro (11) may include a first-first euro (11-1), a first-second euro (11-2), and a first-third euro (11-3). The first supply container (10-1) may be connected to the first-first euro (11-1), and the second supply container (10-2) may be connected to the first-second euro (11-2). The contents contained in the first supply container (10-1) may be discharged through the first-first euro (11-1). The contents contained in the second supply container (10-2) may be discharged through the first-second euro (11-2). The first-first euro (11-1) can be connected to the first-third euro (11-3), and the first-second euro (11-2) can be connected to the first-third euro (11-3). The first-third euro (11-3) can be connected to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20). In this way, since the first supply container (10-1) and / or the second supply container (10-2) are connected to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) through the first flow path (11), the contents of the first supply container (10-1) and / or the contents of the second supply container (10-2) can be moved from the first supply container (10-1) and / or the second supply container (10-2) to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20).

[0034] Although the first supply container (10-1) and the second supply container (10-2) are illustrated in FIG. 1, the supply container (10) may include two or more supply containers. Each supply container (10) may be connected to the first-third flow path (11-3) connected to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) through a flow path. Accordingly, the contents contained within each supply container (10) may be delivered to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20).

[0035] According to one embodiment, the target material and the carrier may be accommodated in one supply container (10), and according to another embodiment, the target material and the carrier may be accommodated in separate supply containers (10).

[0036] According to one embodiment, the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) can transmit shock waves to the target material and the delivery body transmitted from the supply container (10). The extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) can be connected to an extracorporeal shock wave generator (30) through a delivery member (31). The extracorporeal shock wave generator (30) is connected to a power source and can supply energy to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) through the delivery member (31), and the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) can convert the energy transmitted from the extracorporeal shock wave generator (30) to generate an extracorporeal shock wave. The extracorporeal shock wave generated through the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) is transmitted to the delivery body and the target material, so that the target material can be loaded on the delivery body.

[0037] According to another embodiment, an inlet (21) may be formed in at least a portion of the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20). A conversion container (e.g., the conversion container (70) of FIG. 2A) may be inserted into the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) through the inlet (21). The conversion container (70) may accommodate a carrier and a target substance. The conversion container (70) containing the carrier and the target substance is inserted into the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20), and the extracorporeal shock wave (70) generated in the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) is transmitted to the carrier and the target substance accommodated in the conversion container (70), so that the target substance may be loaded onto the carrier.

[0038] The extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) can be connected to a coolant supply passage (61) and a coolant discharge passage (62), and the coolant supply passage (61) and the coolant discharge passage (62) can be connected to a cooler (60). The coolant can be introduced into the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) through the coolant supply passage (61) and cool the heat generated in the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20), and the coolant can be discharged from the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) through the coolant discharge passage (62). The coolant discharged from the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) through the coolant discharge passage (62) can be introduced into the cooler (60) and cooled, and then introduced into the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) through the coolant supply passage (61). A refrigerant may be used as a medium for transmitting extracorporeal shock waves generated in an extracorporeal shock wave converter (20). According to one embodiment, the refrigerant may be composed of water.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the second extracorporeal shock wave converter (20-1) may be connected in parallel with the extracorporeal shock wave converter (20). The second extracorporeal shock wave converter (20-1) may be connected in parallel with the extracorporeal shock wave converter (20) to increase the hourly capacity of loading a target substance into a carrier in the extracorporeal shock wave device (1). The second extracorporeal shock wave converter (20-1) may be connected to the first flow path (11) to receive a carrier including a target substance and / or extracellular vesicles, liposomes, etc. from the supply container (10). In addition to the second extracorporeal shock wave converter (20-1), a plurality of extracorporeal shock wave converters may be provided. The second extracorporeal shock wave converter (20-1) may be identical or similar to the extracorporeal shock wave converter (20).

[0040] A description of the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) will be provided later along with the description of FIGS. 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 3b, and 4.

[0041] The extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) can be connected to the second channel (22). The second channel (22) can connect the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) and the pump (40). The second channel (22) can be connected to the third channel (23). The third channel (23) can be connected to the specimen storage container (24). With this configuration, the delivery body loaded with the target substance in the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) can be delivered to the specimen storage container (24) and / or the pump (40) through the second channel (22) and / or the third channel (23). By inspecting the solution contained in the specimen storage container (24), the quality of the solution contained in the storage container (50) can be confirmed.

[0042] The pump (40) can be supplied with power and move a solution containing a carrier loaded with a target substance transferred from the second channel (22) to a storage container (50). The pump (40) can be configured as a peristaltic pump and can precisely control the amount of fluid transferred per hour. The pump (40) is shown connected to the second channel (22), but the pump (40) can be placed in the first channel (11), the third channel (23), the refrigerant supply channel (61), and / or the refrigerant discharge channel (62). The pump (40) can be connected to the fourth channel (41).

[0043] The fourth flow path (41) can connect the pump (40) and the storage container (50). The pump (40) can transfer a solution containing a carrier loaded with a target substance to the storage container (50) through the fourth flow path (41).

[0044]

[0045] FIG. 2a illustrates a plan view of a converter according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2b illustrates a converter disposed on an upper side of a converter container of the present invention, FIG. 2c illustrates a converter disposed on a lower side of a converter container of the present invention, FIG. 2d illustrates a converter disposed on a side of a converter container of the present invention, FIG. 2e illustrates a converter disposed on a lower side of a container of the present invention, FIGS. 2f and 2g illustrate an embodiment of an extracorporeal shock wave converter, FIG. 2h illustrates an extracorporeal shock wave generated from an extracorporeal shock wave converter of the present invention being transmitted to a plurality of tubes, and FIG. 2i illustrates an extracorporeal shock wave generated from an extracorporeal shock wave converter of the present invention being transmitted to a plurality of tubes.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 2a, according to various embodiments, a conversion container (70) inserted into an inlet (21) formed in an extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) can be confirmed.

[0047] The conversion vessel (70) may include at least one conversion vessel hole (71). According to one embodiment, the conversion vessel (70) may include a plurality of conversion vessel holes (71) arranged in rows and columns. The conversion vessel hole (71) may receive a solution discharged from the injector (80). The injector (80) may receive and discharge a solution including a carrier and a target substance. The solution discharged from the injector (80) may be received in the conversion vessel hole (71), and the conversion vessel (70) may be inserted into the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) through the inlet (21).

[0048] Inside the extracorporeal shock wave converter (20), an extracorporeal shock wave converter (e.g., an extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) of FIG. 2b) connected to a transmission member (31) can generate an extracorporeal shock wave and irradiate it to the conversion container (70). The extracorporeal shock wave irradiation position (P) where the extracorporeal shock wave is irradiated by the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can be changed.

[0049] After a solution is accommodated in at least one conversion container hole (71) and the conversion container (70) is inserted into the extracorporeal shock wave converter (20), an extracorporeal shock wave can be irradiated to the solution accommodated in the conversion container hole (71). The extracorporeal shock wave irradiation position (P) can be changed depending on the movement of the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) or the movement of the conversion container (70).

[0050] According to one embodiment, the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can irradiate the extracorporeal shock wave to only one conversion container hole (71). Referring to FIG. 2A, it can be confirmed that an embodiment in which the extracorporeal shock wave irradiation location (P) is irradiated to only one conversion container hole (71) can be confirmed. It can be confirmed that the extracorporeal shock wave irradiation location (P) moves from the conversion container hole (71) at the lower left to the right. The pattern in which the extracorporeal shock wave irradiation location (P) changes can vary depending on the purpose and necessity of the experiment.

[0051] Referring to Fig. 2b, an extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) connected to a transmission member (31) can be identified. The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can be surrounded by a protective member (202). The protective member (202) can prevent direct contact between the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) and the solution (81) contained in the conversion container hole (71), thereby preventing contamination of the solution (81).

[0052] The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be placed at the upper portion (e.g., in the +Z-axis direction) of the conversion container (70) and may be immersed in a solution (81) contained in the conversion container hole (71). The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) immersed in the solution (81) may generate an extracorporeal shock wave (W). The extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be transmitted toward the solution (81). The extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be irradiated to be focused toward a portion of the solution (81). The target material inside the solution (81) may be loaded onto the transmission body by the extracorporeal shock wave (W). The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) illustrated in FIG. 2b can be implemented as an extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) equipped with a reflector (2010) illustrated in FIG. 2f, or can be implemented as an extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) having a shape similar to the curved surface illustrated in FIG. 2g, so that the extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can be concentrated at a predetermined focus.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 2c, the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) connected to the transmission member (31) may be placed at the lower portion (e.g., in the -Z-axis direction) of the converter container (70). The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be surrounded by a reflector (2010). The reflector (2010) may be configured in a curved shape. As the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) is surrounded by the reflector (2010), the extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be reflected by the reflector (2010) and focused at a predetermined location.

[0054] The extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can travel to the medium (82). Alternatively, the extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be reflected by the reflector (2010) and travel to the medium (82). The medium (82) can come into contact with the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) and be accommodated in a space formed inside the reflector (2010). The extracorporeal shock wave (W) can pass through the medium (82) and the conversion container (70) and be focused on at least a portion of the solution (81) placed in the conversion container hole (71). In this way, even if the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) is placed below the conversion container (70), the extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be transmitted to the solution (81) through the medium (82). Accordingly, the target substance inside the solution (81) can be loaded on the carrier. The refrigerant can perform the function of the medium (82).

[0055] Referring to FIG. 2d, an extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) connected to a transmission member (31) may be placed on the side of a conversion container (70). An extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated by the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be transmitted through a medium (82) and / or the conversion container (70) to be irradiated into a solution (81). The extracorporeal shock wave (W) may be concentrated into a portion of the solution (81). The extracorporeal shock wave (W) irradiated into a portion of the solution (81) may load a target substance inside the solution (81) onto a transmission body.

[0056]

[0057] Referring to FIG. 2e, the conversion vessel (70) can be implemented in the form of a single conversion vessel (70-1). The single conversion vessel (70-1) can accommodate a solution (81). At least a portion of the single conversion vessel (70-1) can be in contact with a medium (82), and an extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) connected to a transmission member (31) can transmit an extracorporeal shock wave (W) to the single conversion vessel (70-1) through the medium (82). The extracorporeal shock wave (W) can load a target substance within the solution (81) onto the transmission member.

[0058] The extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can travel to the medium (82). The medium (82) can come into contact with the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) and the conversion container (70). The conversion container (70) can include a single conversion container (70-1). The extracorporeal shock wave (W) can pass through the medium (82) and the conversion container (70) and be focused on at least a portion disposed inside the solution (81). In this way, even if the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) is disposed outside the conversion container (70), the extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be transmitted to the solution (81) through the medium (82). Accordingly, the target substance inside the solution (81) can be loaded onto the carrier.

[0059] As the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) is positioned on the side of the conversion vessel (70), the extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be transmitted to the carrier and target material positioned on the side of the conversion vessel hole (71). According to one embodiment, even when cells are placed in a solution (81) contained within the conversion vessel hole (71) and the cells are adhered to the side of the conversion vessel hole (71), the extracorporeal shock wave (W) is effectively transmitted, so that the target material can be loaded onto or inserted into the cells.

[0060] A stirrer (26) may be placed inside the single conversion vessel (70-1). The stirrer (26) may be configured to stir the solution (81) contained in the single conversion vessel (70-1) to make the solution (81) uniform.

[0061]

[0062] Figures 2f and 2g illustrate embodiments of an extracorporeal shock wave transducer.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 2F, a reflector (2010) may be placed on the outside of the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201). The extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be reflected by the reflector (2010) and focused into a predetermined space. In this way, as the extracorporeal shock wave (W) is focused into a predetermined space, the energy density per unit area in the space where the extracorporeal shock wave (W) is focused may increase.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 2g, the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be implemented in a roughly hemispherical shape. An extracorporeal shock wave (W) may be generated from the hemispherical extracorporeal shock wave converter (201), and the generated extracorporeal shock wave (W) may be concentrated into a predetermined space. In this way, as the extracorporeal shock wave (W) is concentrated into a predetermined space, the energy density per unit area in the space where the extracorporeal shock wave (W) is concentrated may increase.

[0065]

[0066] Figure 2h illustrates that extracorporeal shock waves generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter of the present invention are transmitted to multiple tubes.

[0067] The extracorporeal shock wave converter (20) may include a jig (204). The jig (204) may hold one or more tubes (203). A solution (81) may be contained within the tubes (203), and at least a portion of the tubes (203) may be in contact with a medium (82).

[0068] The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can generate an extracorporeal shock wave (W), and the generated extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be transmitted to a tube (203) and a solution (81) contained in the tube (203) through a medium (82). According to one embodiment, the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) illustrated in FIG. 2g can be configured as a piezoelectric type or an electromagnet type. The extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be transmitted to a target substance and a carrier contained in the solution (81), and the target substance can be mounted on the carrier.

[0069]

[0070] FIG. 2i illustrates that an extracorporeal shock wave generated from an extracorporeal shock wave converter of the present invention is transmitted to a plurality of tubes. The extracorporeal shock wave converter (20) may include a jig (204). The jig (204) may hold one or more tubes (203). A solution (81) may be contained within the tubes (203), and at least a portion of the tubes (203) may be in contact with a medium (82).

[0071] The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can generate an extracorporeal shock wave (W), and the generated extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be transmitted to a tube (203) and a solution (81) contained in the tube (203) through a medium (82). According to one embodiment, a reflector (2010) can be disposed on the outside of the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) illustrated in FIG. 2F. The extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can be reflected by the reflector (2010) and transmitted to the solution (81) contained in the tube (203). The extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be transmitted to a target substance and a carrier contained in the solution (81), and the target substance can be loaded on the carrier.

[0072]

[0073] FIG. 3a illustrates a plan view of a converter according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3b illustrates a converter disposed on the lower side of a converter container of the present invention, and FIG. 3c illustrates a converter disposed on the lower side of a converter container of the present invention.

[0074] The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201), reflector (2010), transmission member (31), conversion vessel (70), conversion vessel hole (71), solution (81), and medium (82) illustrated in FIGS. 3a and 3b may be identical or similar to the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201), reflector (2010), transmission member (31), conversion vessel (70), conversion vessel hole (71), solution (81), and medium (82) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 2d. Therefore, descriptions of the same configuration may be omitted.

[0075]

[0076] Referring to FIG. 3a, according to various embodiments, a conversion container (70) inserted into an inlet (21) formed in an extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20) can be confirmed.

[0077] The conversion container (70) may include at least one conversion container hole (71). According to one embodiment, the conversion container (70) may include a plurality of conversion container holes (71) arranged in rows and columns.

[0078] Inside the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit (20), an extracorporeal shock wave converter (e.g., the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) of FIG. 3b) connected to a transmission member (31) can generate an extracorporeal shock wave and irradiate it to the conversion container (70). The extracorporeal shock wave irradiation position (P) where the extracorporeal shock wave is irradiated by the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can change. The extracorporeal shock wave irradiation position (P) can change depending on the movement of the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) or the movement of the conversion container (70).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can irradiate the extracorporeal shock wave (W) to a plurality of conversion container holes (71). Referring to FIG. 3A, it can be confirmed that an embodiment in which the extracorporeal shock wave irradiation location (P) is irradiated to a plurality of conversion container holes (71) can be confirmed. It can be confirmed that the extracorporeal shock wave irradiation location (P) moves from the conversion container hole (71) arranged at the bottom of the conversion container (70) to the conversion container hole (71) arranged at the top of the conversion container (70). The pattern in which the extracorporeal shock wave irradiation location (P) changes can vary depending on the purpose and necessity of the experiment. In this way, by irradiating the extracorporeal shock wave (W) to the solution (81) arranged in the plurality of conversion container holes (71) through one extracorporeal shock wave converter (201), the time required to irradiate the extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be reduced.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 3b, an extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) configured to have a longitudinal direction connected to a transmission member (31) may be placed at the lower portion (e.g., in the -Z-axis direction) of a conversion container (70). An extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated in the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be transmitted to a solution (81). The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) configured to have a longitudinal direction may be surrounded by a reflector (2010) configured to have a longitudinal direction. The reflector (2010) may be formed in a curved shape. As the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) is surrounded by the reflector (2010), the extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated in the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be reflected by the reflector (2010) and focused at a predetermined position inside a plurality of conversion container holes (71).

[0081] The extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can travel to the medium (82). Alternatively, the extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be reflected by the reflector (2010) and travel to the medium (82). The medium (82) can come into contact with the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) and be accommodated in a space formed inside the reflector (2010). The extracorporeal shock wave (W) can pass through the medium (82) and the conversion container (70) and be concentrated on at least a portion inside the solution (81) placed in each conversion container hole (71). In this way, even if the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) is placed below the conversion container (70), the extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be transmitted to the solution (81) through the medium (82). Accordingly, the target substance inside the solution (81) can be loaded on the carrier. Additionally, the time required to investigate extracorporeal shock wave (W) may be reduced.

[0082]

[0083] Referring to FIG. 3c, an extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) that irradiates an extracorporeal shock wave (W) to a solution (81) accommodated in a conversion container hole (71) of a conversion container (70) may be provided. The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be configured as a piezoelectric type and / or an electro-magnetic type. The extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the piezoelectric type and / or electro-magnetic type extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may pass through a medium (82) and be irradiated toward a predetermined focus. The solution (81) may be placed at a predetermined focus where the extracorporeal shock wave (W) converges.

[0084]

[0085] Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment in which a reflector is arranged in an extracorporeal shock wave converter of the present invention.

[0086] The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201), reflector (2010), transmission member (31), solution (81), and medium (82) illustrated in FIG. 4 may be identical or similar to the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201), reflector (2010), transmission member (31), solution (81), and medium (82) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3b. Therefore, descriptions of the same configuration may be omitted.

[0087] Referring to Fig. 4, it can be confirmed that the solution (81) flows along the solution flow direction (F) through the conversion channel (25). The solution flow direction (F) in Fig. 4 can be implemented in a direction that is horizontal or vertical to the ground. According to one embodiment, the solution flow direction (F) can be implemented in a direction oblique to the ground.

[0088] A stirrer (26) may be placed inside the conversion channel (26). The stirrer (26) may be placed horizontally on the ground, vertically, or obliquely. As the stirrer (26) is placed inside the conversion channel (25), the solution (81) may be uniformly mixed.

[0089] In Fig. 4, since a conversion vessel (70) for receiving a solution (81) is not used and a conversion path (25) is used, an extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be applied to a large amount of solution (81).

[0090] Referring to Fig. 4, it can be configured to have a longitudinal direction of the conversion path (25). The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) connected to the transmission member (31) can be arranged at the lower part of the conversion path (25). The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can be provided in multiple numbers. The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can be surrounded by a reflector (2010). The reflector (2010) can be configured in a curved shape. As the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) is surrounded by the reflector (2010), the extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) can be reflected by the reflector (2010) and focused at a predetermined position.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) connected to the transmission member (31) may be arranged on the side of the conversion path (25). The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be provided in multiple units. The extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be surrounded by a reflector (2010). The reflector (2010) may be configured in a curved shape. As the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) is surrounded by the reflector (2010), the extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may be reflected by the reflector (2010) and focused at a predetermined position.

[0092] The extracorporeal shock wave (W) generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) may travel to the medium (82). Alternatively, the extracorporeal shock wave (W) may be reflected by the reflector (2010) and travel to the medium (82). The medium (82) may contact the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) and may be accommodated in a space formed inside the reflector (2010). The extracorporeal shock wave (W) may pass through the medium (82) and the conversion channel (25) and be focused on at least a portion of the solution (81) disposed inside the conversion channel (25). In FIG. 4, the extracorporeal shock wave (W) is illustrated as being focused on the center of the conversion channel (25), but the location at which the extracorporeal shock wave (W) is focused may vary depending on the location of the converter (201). In this way, even if the extracorporeal shock wave converter (201) is positioned at the bottom of the conversion channel (25), the extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be transmitted to the solution (81) through the medium (82). Accordingly, the target substance within the solution (81) can be loaded onto the transmission body. In addition, the extracorporeal shock wave (W) can be irradiated to a large amount of the solution (81) in a short period of time.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the extracorporeal shock wave transducer (201) may be configured as a piezo type or an electro magnetic type.

[0094]

[0095] Figure 5a shows pressure changes due to ultrasound over time, and Figure 5b shows pressure changes due to extracorporeal shock waves over time.

[0096] While extracorporeal shock waves are also a type of sound wave, they differ from ultrasound in the following ways. Ultrasound is implemented as a periodic, continuous wave, whereas extracorporeal shock waves are implemented as non-reciprocal waves. Referring to Figure 5a, the pressure generated by ultrasound is generated consistently as positive and negative pressure. Since positive and negative pressures alternate, cavitation may not occur in some parts of the solution under pressure.

[0097] In contrast, referring to Fig. 5b, it can be confirmed that the pressure generated by the extracorporeal shock wave is different from the pressure generated by the ultrasound. The pressure generated by the extracorporeal shock wave is generated as positive pressure and negative pressure, but since the magnitude of the positive and negative pressure is not equal and does not occur continuously, cavitation may occur in a portion of the solution under pressure. As cavitation occurs, the shock caused by the cavitation is transmitted to the carrier, which may cause a portion of the carrier to be lost or a hole to be formed, and the target material may be loaded into the carrier through the loss of a portion of the carrier or the hole formed. Ultimately, the target material can be loaded into the carrier through the cavitation generated by the extracorporeal shock wave.

[0098]

[0099] While the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, these are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to other fields. Therefore, the true scope of technical protection of the present invention should be defined by the claims below.

Claims

1. Extracorporeal shock wave generator; A transmission member connected to the above extracorporeal shock wave generator; and An extracorporeal shock wave converter that converts power supplied from the extracorporeal shock wave generator through the transmission member into extracorporeal shock waves; The above extracorporeal shock wave converter is an extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target substance into a carrier configured to load a target substance in a solution into the carrier by irradiating the extracorporeal shock wave.

2. In paragraph 1, an inlet formed in at least a portion of the extracorporeal shock wave generator; and A conversion container having at least one conversion container hole formed therein; The above solution is contained in the above conversion container hole, The above-mentioned conversion vessel is an extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target substance into a carrier configured to be inserted into the above-mentioned inlet.

3. In paragraph 2, The above extracorporeal shock wave converter and the above conversion container are an extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target substance onto a carrier that moves relative to each other.

4. In paragraph 2, Further comprising a protective member surrounding at least a portion of the extracorporeal shock wave converter, An extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target substance onto a carrier that comes into contact with the above-mentioned protective member and the above-mentioned solution.

5. In paragraph 2, A refrigerant supply path connected to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit and supplying refrigerant to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit; A refrigerant discharge path connected to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit and moving the refrigerant discharged from the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit; and An extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target substance onto a carrier further including a cooler that is connected to the refrigerant supply path and the refrigerant discharge path and cools the refrigerant.

6. In paragraph 5, The above extracorporeal shock wave converter is placed at the bottom of the converter container, A refrigerant is placed between the extracorporeal shock wave converter and the converter vessel, An extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target substance onto a carrier that transmits the extracorporeal shock wave generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter to the converter container hole.

7. In paragraph 5, Further comprising a reflector surrounding at least a portion of the extracorporeal shock wave transducer, An extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target substance onto a carrier in which an extracorporeal shock wave generated from the extracorporeal shock wave converter is reflected from the reflector and travels to the conversion container hole.

8. In paragraph 5, The above extracorporeal shock wave transducer has a longitudinal direction, The above reflector is an extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target substance onto a carrier having a length direction parallel to the length direction of the extracorporeal shock wave converter.

9. In paragraph 1, At least one supply vessel containing a carrier or target material; A first path connected to the supply container and the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit, and moving the carrier or the target material contained in the supply container to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit; A refrigerant supply path connected to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit and supplying refrigerant to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit; A refrigerant discharge path connected to the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit and moving the refrigerant discharged from the extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit; A cooler connected to the above refrigerant supply path and the above refrigerant discharge path to cool the refrigerant; A second path for moving the solution discharged from the above extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit; A pump connected to the second flow path and moving the solution; A third flow path connected to the second flow path and transferring a portion of the solution to a test specimen storage container; and An extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target substance onto a carrier further including a fourth path connected to the pump and storage container and moving the solution to the storage container.

10. In paragraph 9, The above extracorporeal shock wave conversion unit further includes a conversion path through which the solution moves and has a longitudinal direction, At least a portion of the above conversion path is in contact with the refrigerant, The above extracorporeal shock wave converter is an extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target substance onto a carrier that comes into contact with the refrigerant.

11. In paragraph 9, An extracorporeal shock wave device in which the longitudinal direction of the above conversion channel is arranged parallel to the vertical direction, and the solution loads a target substance onto a carrier moving from one side of the above conversion channel to the other side.

12. In paragraph 9, An extracorporeal shock wave device in which the longitudinal direction of the above conversion path is arranged to be perpendicular to the vertical direction, and the solution loads a target substance onto a carrier moving from one side of the above conversion path to the other side.

13. In paragraph 9, An extracorporeal shock wave device that loads a target material into a carrier further including a stirrer disposed inside the above-mentioned conversion fluid.

14. In paragraph 1, An extracorporeal shock wave device that converts power supplied through the above transmission member into an extracorporeal shock wave and further includes a second extracorporeal shock wave converter connected in parallel with the extracorporeal shock wave converter.

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