Fluid system and fluid operation method for optical measurement device

Abstract

The present invention provides a fluid system for an optical measurement device, comprising a first optical fiber located above and a second optical fiber located below. The fluid system comprises a capillary. The capillary is arranged close to a second fiber core in the radial direction of the second optical fiber, and is configured to be capable of supplying a liquid to a space between the end surface of the first optical fiber and the end surface of the second optical fiber via an end portion of the capillary, such that at least a part of the supplied liquid constitutes at least a part of a liquid column pulled out from the space between the end surface of the first optical fiber and the end surface of the second optical fiber by a surface tension. By means of the fluid system, the liquid can be supplied to the space between the end surfaces of the two optical fibers by means of a simple structure and operation, and particularly, it can be ensured that at least a part of the supplied liquid can be pulled out from the space between the end surfaces of the two optical fibers in the form of the liquid column, greatly improving the liquid supply and detection efficiency and accuracy. In addition, the present invention further provides a fluid operation method for an optical measurement device.

Description

Fluid system and fluid operation method for optical measuring equipment Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid system for an optical measuring device, which may be a micro-spectrophotometer, for example. In addition, the present invention also relates to a fluid operation method for the optical measuring device. Background Art

[0002] Optical measurement has long been widely used in various fields such as biology, chemistry, and medicine. Among various optical measurement methods, spectrophotometry is a commonly used biological and chemical detection method, which is widely used in the rapid quantitative detection of samples such as sugars, nucleic acids, enzymes, or proteins. The detection instrument based on spectrophotometry is called a spectrophotometer. In recent years, micro-spectrophotometers have been increasingly used to detect samples. This micro-spectrophotometer mainly uses the surface tension of a trace amount of liquid to form a light path, so only a very small amount of the sample to be tested is required to obtain accurate detection data, and the sample consumption is small. Compared with traditional optical measurement equipment such as cuvettes, the accuracy and repeatability of micro-spectrophotometers are significantly improved.

[0003] Optical measurement devices, such as micro-spectrophotometers, can include upper and lower measuring elements positioned opposite each other. Typically, the sample to be measured has a suitable surface tension coefficient, allowing it to form (or be pulled out of) a liquid column between the upper and lower measuring elements. In some cases, light emitted from the transmitting end of one of the upper and lower measuring elements (e.g., a transmitting optical fiber) passes through the sample to be measured (typically a liquid) and is received at the receiving end of the other of the upper and lower measuring elements (e.g., a receiving optical fiber), ultimately being optically measured by a measuring or analysis device. However, in other cases, the sample liquid column held between the upper and lower measuring elements can itself, under certain conditions, emit fluorescence, for example, for optical detection, eliminating the need for light to be emitted at one end of the liquid column and received at the other.

[0004] In existing optical measurement equipment, during actual measurement, one of the upper and lower measuring elements, or another mechanical structure containing it (e.g., an arm structure supporting the upper measuring element or a base structure supporting the lower measuring element), must be manually moved to allow a device such as a pipette to add sample to the other of the two elements. The other element is then returned to its original position, forming a liquid column between the upper and lower measuring elements for optical measurement. Besides sample addition, other procedures such as cleaning, dilution, and drainage require manual intervention to move the device components, or even if the device components themselves are not moved, manual operation is still required.

[0005] However, the drawback of these optical measurement devices is that they are inefficient and cannot be automated, requiring manual intervention throughout (or for most of) the entire process. In recent years, with the increasing demand for high-throughput sample testing, there is a significant need in many fields, including biology, chemistry, and medicine, to implement automated testing, including functions such as automated sample loading, automated dilution, and automated cleaning, to significantly improve overall testing efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention provides a fluid system for an optical measuring device, which includes a first optical fiber located above and a second optical fiber located below, the first optical fiber including a first fiber core and a first fiber end face, and the second optical fiber including a second fiber core and a second fiber end face facing the first fiber end face. The fluid system includes a capillary, which is arranged close to the second fiber core along the radial direction of the second optical fiber and is configured to supply liquid to the space between the first fiber end face and the second fiber end face via its capillary end, so that at least a portion of the supplied liquid constitutes at least a portion of a liquid column drawn between the first fiber end face and the second fiber end face by surface tension.

[0007] The aforementioned fluid system enables the supply of liquid between the two optical fiber end faces with a simple structure and operation, specifically ensuring that at least a portion of the supplied liquid can be drawn out of the two optical fiber end faces as a liquid column. For example, the capillary tube can ensure that liquid, especially high-value samples, are supplied to the space in very precisely controlled, minute quantities to the extent that a liquid column can be drawn out. Furthermore, because the capillary tube can be used to control the liquid supply, functions such as automatic sampling, automatic dilution, and automatic cleaning can be achieved, eliminating the need for manual intervention such as traditional pipettes, greatly improving the efficiency and accuracy of liquid supply and detection.

[0008] Preferably, the capillary can be oriented to an angle relative to the second fiber core between 0 and 30 degrees (including numerical endpoints). Particularly preferably, the capillary extends parallel to the second fiber core (that is, the angle is zero). Considering the need to supply or discharge other fluid components of the capillary with liquid, when the two angles are between 0-30 degrees (that is, the angle is less), arranging the capillary in the overall device or instrument will not cause the volume of the device or instrument to increase significantly. For example, this can facilitate the integration of the capillary in the second optical fiber, and be conducive to the connection of the capillary with the fluid components upstream of the liquid, such as pumping mechanism, switching mechanism. Particularly when the capillaries are arranged in parallel, the volume increase of the equipment can hardly be increased.

[0009] Preferably, the capillary tube can extend inside the second optical fiber. This allows full utilization of the internal space of the second optical fiber for arranging the capillary tube, thereby making the device compact and, at the same time, ensuring that the capillary tube is isolated from the environment at a low cost, reducing the need for regular cleaning of the capillary tube.

[0010] The capillary tube may be fixed within the second optical fiber. Here, "fixed" means that the position of the capillary tube relative to the second optical fiber (particularly the second optical fiber end face, the second optical core, etc.) is fixed during fluid manipulation, and does not mean that the capillary tube cannot be permanently removed from the second optical fiber.

[0011] Advantageously, the second core end of the second fiber core is located at the second optical fiber end face, and the minimum radial distance L between the capillary end and the second core end can satisfy the following conditions:

[0012] Wherein, D1 is the diameter of the first optical fiber end face, D2 is the diameter of the second optical fiber end face, C is the radius of the second fiber core, R is the outer radius of the capillary, r is the inner radius of the capillary, and D2 is greater than D1.

[0013] When at least a portion of the capillary is disposed within the second optical fiber and the capillary end is located at the end face of the second optical fiber, and when the minimum radial distance L satisfies the above formula, the internal flow channel of the capillary (at its end face) is ensured to be at least within the radial range of the first optical fiber above. As a result, liquid supplied through the capillary end can be rapidly rinsed by the first optical fiber due to the relative movement between the first and second optical fibers (e.g., an increase and / or decrease in the spacing), significantly improving detection efficiency. In particular, when the amount of supplied liquid is very small (e.g., with a minimum sample load of 1 microliter), this facilitates subsequent drawing of a stable liquid column, enabling reliable measurement.

[0014] In particular, the capillary tube can be designed to drain the liquid from the space via its capillary end.

[0015] In addition to supplying liquid, the capillary tube can also discharge liquid from its end, in particular, from a compressed liquid droplet or directly from a drawn liquid column. Liquid supply and discharge can preferably be accomplished by at least one identical capillary tube, but can also be accomplished by completely different capillaries (either simultaneously or sequentially).

[0016] More preferably, a plurality of capillaries may be provided inside the second optical fiber and arranged around the second core.

[0017] By providing multiple capillaries, flexible liquid supply and / or drainage can be achieved. For example, liquid can be supplied and drained simultaneously around the optical axis to improve efficiency. For another example, liquid can be supplied on one side of the optical axis and drained on the other, particularly simultaneously, with the supply and drain capillaries located on both sides of the optical axis to facilitate liquid flow.

[0018] Furthermore, the fluid system may further comprise a pumping mechanism which may be arranged in fluid connection with the capillary tube to pump liquid towards or away from the end of the capillary tube.

[0019] By combining the capillary tube with the pumping mechanism, fully automated liquid supply and / or liquid discharge can be achieved, greatly improving detection efficiency.

[0020] Preferably, a first capillary and a second capillary arranged relative to the second fiber core may be provided inside the second optical fiber, and the pumping mechanism may include a first pump and a second pump, the first pump may be configured to pump liquid toward the end of the first capillary or pump liquid away from the end of the first capillary, and the second pump may be configured to pump liquid toward the end of the second capillary or pump liquid away from the end of the second capillary.

[0021] The pumping mechanism can transport fluid in two directions, including supplying liquid toward the second optical fiber end face and discharging liquid away from the second optical fiber end face. Since each pump can transport liquid in opposite directions, the flexibility of fluid operation is improved.

[0022] In particular, the first pump and the second pump can be configured to operate in opposite directions so that liquid flows into one of the first capillary and the second capillary and flows out of the other, thereby forming a liquid flow in the liquid held between the first and second optical fiber end faces.

[0023] When the first pump and the second pump operate in opposite directions, it can be designed that within a certain period of time, one of the two capillaries only supplies and the other only discharges. In this way, inflow and outflow can occur simultaneously, and the space between the first optical fiber end face and the second optical fiber end face is used to form a liquid flow, which is particularly helpful for cleaning or dilution operations.

[0024] In addition, the fluid system may further include a switching valve, which may be arranged to be connected to the capillary fluid and include multiple switchable ports, wherein the switching valve may be configured to selectively deliver the liquid to the capillary via a corresponding port among the multiple ports, or to selectively discharge the liquid from the capillary via a corresponding port among the multiple ports.

[0025] Switching valves enable flexible liquid supply and discharge. For example, they can include different ports to flexibly select the source or discharge location of the liquid. Furthermore, switching valves can be combined with other fluidic components to expand their functionality (e.g., intermediate storage, precise control of different capillaries, etc.).

[0026] More specifically, the plurality of ports of the switching valve may include at least one of: a first port for supplying a sample; a second port for supplying a cleaning agent; and a third port for discharging a waste liquid.

[0027] By having the switching valve include a plurality of different ports and each port corresponding to a different function, the influence between the supply of different liquids can be avoided and the accuracy of subsequent measurements can be improved.

[0028] The present invention also provides a fluid operation method for an optical measurement device, wherein the optical measurement device includes a first optical fiber located above and a second optical fiber located below, wherein the first optical fiber includes a first fiber core and a first fiber end face, and the second optical fiber includes a second fiber core and a second fiber end face facing the first fiber end face. The method includes performing the following basic steps, which are as follows:

[0029] a liquid supplying step of supplying liquid to the space between the first optical fiber end face and the second optical fiber end face using the capillary end of the capillary tube, so that at least a portion of the supplied liquid constitutes at least a portion of a liquid column drawn between the first optical fiber end face and the second optical fiber end face by surface tension;

[0030] The distance adjustment step is to actuate at least one of the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber to change the relative distance between the two so that a liquid column is maintained between the end face of the first optical fiber and the end face of the second optical fiber.

[0031] This method makes it possible to easily implement automated operations (e.g., optical measurements) by utilizing capillaries to control the liquid supply, thereby performing functions such as automated sampling, automated dilution, and automated cleaning, without the need for manual intervention such as pipetting. This significantly improves the efficiency and accuracy of liquid supply and detection. Furthermore, by adding a distance adjustment step, even greater control over the supplied liquid is achieved, making it easier to rinse the fiber end face, for example, and thus draw a stable liquid column.

[0032] Advantageously, the method may include a cleaning mode in which, after the basic step, a liquid drainage step is performed: draining the liquid from the space via the capillary end. Thus, the basic step can be used to achieve a sufficient cleaning of the space between the two optical fibers, in particular the two optical fiber end faces.

[0033] Preferably, the basic step may further include an optical measurement step performed after the distance adjustment step: optically measuring the liquid column.

[0034] By adding an optical measurement step after the distance adjustment step, the current liquid state can be analyzed, and further operations can be performed in combination with other steps, such as repeating basic steps, etc., to achieve a fully automated operation process and improve detection efficiency.

[0035] Furthermore, the method may further include a liquid discharging step performed after the optical measuring step: discharging the liquid from the space via the capillary end.

[0036] The automated detection process can be further optimized by the liquid discharge step so that unnecessary liquid can also be automatically discharged.

[0037] Advantageously, when executing the basic step, after the optical measurement step, if the measured parameter meets a predetermined condition, the distance adjustment step is executed.

[0038] By determining whether a predetermined condition is satisfied after the optical measurement step and then continuing (again) the distance adjustment step, it is possible to further satisfy the predetermined condition by adjusting the distance. For example, if the absorbance is still high, the distance can be adjusted again to obtain better subsequent detection results.

[0039] Particularly preferably, the distance adjustment step may include in sequence: a distance reduction step: actuating at least one of the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber to reduce the relative distance between the two; a distance increase step: actuating at least one of the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber to increase the relative distance between the two.

[0040] Controlling the relative movement of the upper and lower optical fibers to achieve stretching and compression of the liquid (eg, in the form of droplets) facilitates wetting or soaking each optical fiber end face with the liquid, thereby drawing out a stable liquid column suitable for subsequent optical measurement.

[0041] In particular, after the optical measurement step and before the liquid discharge step, at least one of the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber may be actuated to reduce the relative distance therebetween.

[0042] By reducing the spacing before discharging the liquid, the liquid (for example, originally in the form of a liquid column) can be changed into a convex droplet shape protruding outward from the space between the first optical fiber end face and the second optical fiber end face (that is, the radial range of the droplet is increased), which is very helpful for the capillary to discharge the liquid stably and quickly therefrom.

[0043] In some embodiments, the method may include a cleaning mode, in which, after performing the optical measurement step, if the measured parameter is greater than a first threshold, the liquid discharge step and the basic step are sequentially performed.

[0044] The cleaning mode can be used to evaluate and re-optimize the cleaning effect. For example, when the measured parameter is greater than a first threshold, the current liquid can be drained and new cleaning liquid can be supplied.

[0045] In addition, the method may include a dilution mode, in which a liquid column is formed between the first optical fiber end face and the second optical fiber end face before the liquid supply step; wherein, after performing the optical measurement step, if the measured parameter is greater than the second threshold value and the volume of the current liquid column is less than the predetermined volume, the basic step is performed.

[0046] The dilution mode can be used to evaluate and re-optimize the cleaning effect. For example, when the measured parameter is greater than the second threshold and the volume of the current liquid column is less than the predetermined volume, the basic steps of supplying diluent (which can be any concentration of liquid), changing the spacing, and optical measurement can be repeated until the parameter is less than or equal to the second threshold (or the volume exceeds the predetermined volume).

[0047] Furthermore, the method may include a sample loading mode, in which the liquid is a sample, wherein, before the liquid supplying step, Move only one of the first and second optical fibers to increase the relative distance between them. This prevents undesirable outward escape of droplets caused by the upper and lower fibers being too close together. By increasing the distance between the two, the surface tension of the liquid is concentrated on the end face of the second optical fiber (for example, ensuring sample loading).

[0048] In particular, while the basic step is being performed, the distance adjustment step may be performed a predetermined number of times, the predetermined number being more than one.

[0049] The multiple relative movements of the upper and lower optical fibers can help to evenly mix the liquid (for example, mixing between solute and solution in dilution mode), thereby improving the accuracy of subsequent measurements, such as absorbance measurements. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] FIG1 schematically shows a perspective view of an optical measuring device (taking a micro-spectrophotometer as an example) according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] FIG2 schematically illustrates positioning of a capillary end portion of a fluid system for an optical measuring device on a second optical fiber end face according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] FIG3 schematically shows a partial cross-sectional view of a fluid system according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the arrangement of the optical measurement device, mainly the first optical fiber, its first fiber core, and first fiber end face, and the second optical fiber, its second fiber core, and second fiber end face are also shown;

[0053] FIG4 schematically shows a top view of the positioning of the capillary end of the fluid system on the second optical fiber end face according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] 5 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a capillary of a fluid system and a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber of an optical measuring device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] 6 schematically shows a perspective view of a capillary of a fluid system and a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber of an optical measuring device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] 7 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of a fluid system (including a capillary, a switching valve, a pumping mechanism, etc.) and a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber of an optical measuring device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] 8 schematically shows a side view of a capillary of a fluid system and a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber of an optical measuring device according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the capillary is not integrated into the second optical fiber;

[0058] FIG9 schematically illustrates a sample loading mode involved in a fluid manipulation method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] FIG10 schematically illustrates a cleaning mode involved in a fluid operation method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] FIG11 schematically illustrates a dilution mode involved in a fluid operation method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] 12A schematically shows a side view of a capillary of a fluid system and a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber of an optical measuring device according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the capillary is also not integrated into the second optical fiber;

[0062] FIG12B schematically illustrates the positional relationship between the spherical liquid droplet and the first optical fiber and the second fiber core according to the embodiment of FIG12A ;

[0063] FIG13 schematically shows a calculation chart of the minimum radial distance when the angle between the capillary end and the second optical fiber end face (assuming it is a substantially horizontal plane) is 30° according to the embodiment of FIG12A ;

[0064] FIG14 schematically shows a calculation chart of the minimum radial distance when the angle between the capillary end and the second optical fiber end face (assuming it is a substantially horizontal plane) is 15° according to the embodiment of FIG12A ;

[0065] FIG15 schematically shows a calculation chart of the minimum radial distance when the angle between the capillary end and the second optical fiber end face (assuming it is a substantially horizontal plane) is 45° according to the embodiment of FIG12A ;

[0066] FIG16 schematically shows a calculation chart of the minimum radial distance when the angle between the capillary end and the second optical fiber end face (assuming it is a substantially horizontal plane) is 0° according to the embodiment of FIG12A .

[0067] List of reference numerals: 100 optical measuring device; 101 optical axis; 110 first optical fiber; 111 upper arm; 112 first optical fiber end face; 113 first fiber core; 120 second optical fiber; 121 base; 122 second optical fiber end face; 123 second fiber core; 124 second fiber core end; 130 capillary; 131 capillary end; 132 capillary end face; 133 first capillary; 134 second capillary; 140 pumping mechanism; 141 first pump; 142 second pump; 150 switching valve; 151 first port; 152 second port; 153 third port; 154 center port; 160 waste container; C outer radius of second fiber core; R outer radius of capillary; r inner radius of capillary; L minimum radial distance; D1 The outer diameter of the first optical fiber end face; D2 is the outer diameter of the second optical fiber end face. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] The optical measurement device referred to in the present invention refers to any device suitable for performing optical measurements on a sample, and is not limited to the parameters obtained by the optical measurements. For example, optical measurements can be performed by passing emitted light through the sample to obtain a (physical or chemical) parameter of the sample, such as the sample's absorbance. Another example is that the optical measurement can be performed by fluorescing the sample itself under certain conditions, thereby obtaining a physical parameter, such as a fluorescence value. Furthermore, it should be noted that a fluid manipulation method for an optical measurement device does not necessarily include an optical measurement step.

[0069] Preferably, the optical measurement device can be a micro-volume spectrophotometer or micro-volume spectrometer. As previously mentioned, a spectrophotometer is a device or instrument that measures the absorbance of a trace amount of a substance (primarily a sample liquid) within a specific wavelength range to perform qualitative and quantitative analysis (for example, analyzing the concentration of a substance in the sample). A micro-volume spectrophotometer utilizes the surface tension of a drawn sample liquid to form a sample column.

[0070] In the context of the present invention, the term "optical fiber" may include multiple parts including the core, cladding, coating, etc. In other words, the optical fiber of the present invention not only refers to the core, but also includes the surface that can be in direct contact with the sample solution, which can be referred to as the optical fiber end face in this article. It can be understood that it is not excluded that the core end of the core can directly constitute a part of the optical fiber end face, but this is not necessary. For the sake of convenience, the layers outside the optical fiber that are in direct contact with the sample solution, such as other protective layers or covering layers, are no longer defined in the entire text, but this does not mean that they do not exist in the actual product.

[0071] In addition, the optical fiber described in the present invention is generally an optical fiber of a known structure: the core is located in the center, and its composition can be, for example, high-purity SiO2, doped with a very small amount of dopants to increase the refractive index; the cladding is located around the core, and the refractive index of the cladding is slightly lower than the refractive index of the core; the coating is located at the outermost layer of the optical fiber. Optionally, the optical fiber includes a stainless steel shell. The core or the end face of the optical fiber is preferably made of a hydrophilic material, while the optical fiber shell (for example, its side wall, etc.) is preferably made of a hydrophobic material. In the following, the diameter of the core and the diameter of the end face of the optical fiber will be distinguished, and the former is usually smaller than the latter. It can be understood that since the optical fiber structure itself is not the focus of the present invention, unless otherwise specified, the optical fiber contains any necessary known structures or elements and will not be repeated.

[0072] In the present invention, the term "optical axis" generally refers to the central axis of a measurement element (e.g., an optical fiber) (the central axes of the cores of the upper and lower optical fibers are typically aligned). However, as previously mentioned, the present invention does not require that light must pass through the sample from one end to the other. Therefore, the "optical axis" may not be directly related to the optical path itself, but may refer to the physical central axis of the measurement element.

[0073] In the present invention, the term "capillary" refers to a tube having an outer diameter (OD) of less than 1 mm, particularly less than 500 μm, through which liquid can flow, typically without any other fluid components other than the tube connector. The capillary tube is preferably made of a hydrophilic material.

[0074] In the present invention, the term "basic steps" is a designated name for a series of steps, and "basic" does not mean that all basic steps must be performed to implement the present invention.

[0075] In the present invention, serial numbers "first", "second", etc. do not represent order (for example, do not imply a precedence relationship unless explicitly stated) or priority or importance. The above serial numbers are only to indicate that they are different devices, elements or steps.

[0076] The present invention relates to a fluid system for optical measurement equipment. As mentioned above, any device suitable for optical measurement is within the scope of the present invention, and the parameters measured are not limited. Preferably, the optical measurement device is a microspectrophotometer. The term "fluid system" refers to a system used for fluid operations, including but not limited to the supply, cleaning, dilution, agitation, and discharge of fluids (primarily liquids).

[0077] The optical measurement device 100 includes a first optical fiber 110 and a second optical fiber 120, with the first optical fiber 110 typically positioned above the second optical fiber 120. While the two optical fibers are not required to be perfectly aligned vertically, the central axis of the first fiber core 113 of the first optical fiber 110 should be aligned with the central axis of the second optical fiber 120. The phrase "alignable" means that the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120 can at least be moved to a position where the central axes of their cores are aligned, although this position is not required to be maintained at all times. Preferably, the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120 are used in pairs, with one being a transmitting fiber and the other being a receiving fiber, but their positions can be interchanged as needed. It is worth noting that, in the present invention, the positioning of the first optical fiber 110 above the second optical fiber 120 does not impose any restrictions on the type or size of the optical fibers.

[0078] More specifically, the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120 are vertically opposed to each other, i.e., the first fiber end face 112 of the first optical fiber 110 and the second fiber end face 122 of the second optical fiber 120 face each other. Preferably, the first fiber end face and the second fiber end face can refer to the mutually parallel end face portions of the facing end faces of the two optical fibers, excluding the end face portions extending outward from these parallel end face portions (usually located in the middle), i.e., tilted toward the sides of the optical axis. The core of an optical fiber is typically located at the center of the entire fiber. The remaining structure is well known to optical fibers and will not be described in detail.

[0079] The optical measuring device 100 of the present invention may further include a mechanism for actuating the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120. For example, the first optical fiber 110 may be placed in an upper arm 111, which can move relative to the second optical fiber 120 (e.g., translate up and down, pivot about an axis, etc.). For another example, the second optical fiber 120 may be placed in a lower base 121, which can be movable or stationary. FIG1 illustrates the structure of an exemplary micro-spectrophotometer, specifically showing the upper arm 111 (the first optical fiber is not visible) and the base 121 (the second optical fiber 120 and its second core 123 are visible). Regardless of the structure of the mechanism or component connected to the optical fiber, it is generally assumed that the liquid is located between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122, rather than between the optical fiber and other mechanisms or components. In other words, the upper arm 111 or the base 121 generally do not constitute part of the optical fiber end face.

[0080] To achieve the desired fluid operations of the present invention (including but not limited to loading, dilution, cleaning, and discharge), the fluid system of the present invention includes a capillary 130. As mentioned above, the outer diameter of the capillary 130 is typically less than 1 mm, i.e., in the micron range, for example, 200-600 μm, particularly 450 μm.

[0081] The capillary 130 of the present invention is preferably a quartz capillary, particularly a fused silica capillary. The capillary may be coated for protection, with a mirror-smooth interior and dimensionally stable along its length (including inner and outer diameters). In one embodiment, the capillary has a tensile strength of up to 300 kpsi. The capillary can operate at temperatures up to 350-400 degrees Celsius.

[0082] The capillary tube 130 is arranged radially close to the core of the optical fiber. Here, the optical fiber may refer to the second optical fiber 120, and the core may refer to the second optical core 123. However, since the central axes of the first optical core 113 and the second optical core 123 are aligned, this description of the arrangement is merely to illustrate that the capillary tube 130 is radially close to the core, rather than away from it. When referring to "arranged (radially) close to the second optical core 123," it does not mean that the capillary tube 130 is closer to the second optical core 123 located below and farther away from the first optical core 113. Instead, it is intended to select either the first or second optical core 113 for ease of description. An example of the arrangement of the capillary tube 130 in the space between the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120 will be further described below.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, capillary 130 is oriented to an angle relative to the second core between 0 and 30 degrees, particularly extending parallel thereto. Considering the need to supply or discharge liquid to the capillary, when the two angles are between 0-30 degrees (that is, angle is small), arranging capillary in overall equipment or instrument substantially does not cause the volume of equipment or instrument to significantly increase. For example, when capillary is integrated in the second optical fiber, relatively small angle can ensure that the radial distance of capillary from the second core when leaving on the end face of the second optical fiber away from the first optical fiber remains in a range, thereby the arrangement position of the relevant fluid components connected with capillary, such as pumping mechanism, fluid connector, switching mechanism etc. in whole equipment or instrument can be more flexible and compact. In the present invention, capillary is generally straight extension (that is, capillary is a straight tube), but the present invention does not completely exclude the possibility that at least a portion of capillary has a bend.

[0084] The capillary tube 130 includes a capillary end 131, through which liquid is supplied and / or discharged. The "capillary end" refers to the terminal portion of the capillary tube including the capillary end face 132, which is close to the optical fiber end face (e.g., the second optical fiber end face 122) relative to its other end. In the various calculation processes below, the capillary end face 132 is approximated as a plane (see Figure 3 or Figure 5), and its surface unevenness is ignored. Although the capillary tube 130 is preferably straight, it is not ruled out that there is a bend to facilitate arrangement in the fluid system. Therefore, in the present invention, more attention is paid to the positioning of the capillary end 131 (relative to the optical fiber, optical fiber end face or fiber core, etc.), rather than the arrangement of the capillary tube along its entire length, such as the extension direction of the capillary tube as a whole or the fluid path (extension) within the capillary tube. As for the other opposite end of the capillary tube 130, as long as it is compatible with the other components described below, it is not the focus of the present invention in terms of positioning.

[0085] The capillary tube 130 of the present invention can supply and / or drain liquid to the space between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122 via its capillary tube end 131. Here, this "space" is primarily bounded at the top and bottom by the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122, but may also include the optical fiber end faces themselves. In some embodiments, the capillary tube end 131 is positioned within this space without contacting the first optical fiber 110 or the second optical fiber, while in other embodiments, the capillary tube end 131 directly supplies and / or drains liquid to the second optical fiber end face 122. This "space" does not have clear radial boundaries, as in the vertical direction, and is generally located within the diameter of the second optical fiber end face 122 below. The selection of the radial distance between the capillary tube end 131 and the core end of the second optical fiber will be further described below.

[0086] When liquid is supplied to the aforementioned space, at least a portion of the supplied liquid can constitute at least a portion of a liquid column drawn between the first and second optical fiber end faces 112, 122 by the liquid's surface tension. First, a liquid column is a columnar structure composed of a continuous liquid that is drawn by surface tension (by the upper and lower optical fiber end faces) rather than being supported or held by, for example, another container. Second, "constituting at least a portion of the liquid column" means that a liquid column may already be formed between the first and second optical fiber end faces 112, 122 before the liquid is supplied to the space via a capillary tube. Therefore, (at least a portion of) the supplied liquid only constitutes a portion of the liquid column (although, in other embodiments, it may constitute the entire liquid column). Furthermore, "at least a portion of the supplied liquid" refers to the possibility that a portion of the liquid supplied to the space between the first and second optical fiber end faces 112, 122 does not constitute at least a portion of the drawn liquid column, although it is preferred that all of the liquid supplied to the space constitute at least a portion of the drawn liquid column.

[0087] Utilizing capillary tube 130 to supply and / or drain liquid facilitates automated fluid manipulation processes. In some embodiments, capillary tube 130 can be moved into position from either or both sides of optical axis 101, with liquid supplied / drained via capillary end 131. Both movement (e.g., following a prescribed route to a suitable position in the space between first optical fiber end face 112 and second optical fiber end face 122) and liquid supply / drainage can be easily automated.

[0088] In other embodiments, at least a portion, preferably the entire capillary tube 130 may be directly located within the second fiber housing 125, particularly radially adjacent to the second fiber core 123. Preferably, the main portion of the capillary tube 130 is located within the second fiber housing 125. Thus, the capillary tube 130 can be directly integrated into the second optical fiber 120, and liquid can be supplied / drained through the other end of the capillary tube 130.

[0089] Of course, the capillary 130 may also be partially located within the second optical fiber 120, i.e., within the second optical fiber housing 125, and partially located outside thereof, for example, extending into the space between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122. In the calculation of the minimum radial distance to be explained in detail below, this embodiment is generally described similarly to the embodiment in which the capillary 130 is positioned from the side of the optical axis 101.

[0090] The second fiber core 123 of the present invention has a second fiber core end 124, which can be located at the second fiber end face 122 (for example, it can directly constitute a part of the second fiber end face 122, see Figure 2) or near it (that is, there is a small upper and lower gap with the second fiber end face 122). In this case, the minimum radial distance between the capillary end 131 and the second fiber core end 124 can be discussed. Here, since the capillary end 131 itself has a certain size range (for example, an outer diameter of several hundred microns), the term "minimum radial distance" refers to the radial distance between the capillary end 131, in particular, the point on its end face that is closest to the second fiber core end 124, and the second fiber core end 124 (which is also the point closest to the capillary 130) (see Figure 4).

[0091] Advantageously, the capillary end 131 is disposed substantially within the second optical fiber 120, at the second optical fiber end face 122 (preferably, the end face of the capillary end 131 is substantially flush with the second optical fiber end face 122, as shown in Figures 2-3), so that liquid can be directly supplied to and / or drained from the second optical fiber end face 122. Here, "directly" primarily refers to the fact that the liquid can flow directly onto the second optical fiber end face 122, without having to consider the liquid's own gravity dripping onto the second optical fiber end face 122 or the need to utilize the hydrophilicity of the material to absorb the droplets. Typically, the capillary end 131 is positioned no lower than the surface of the second optical fiber end face 122, as otherwise it would result in unnecessary liquid accumulation.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment, the diameter of the second optical fiber at the bottom is larger than the diameter of the first optical fiber 110 at the top. In the example of a micro-spectrophotometer, under the condition of a micro-sample volume (for example, a few microliters), the influence of the gravity of the droplet can be ignored, and the surface tension always forces the shape of the liquid column to change in the direction of minimum surface energy, and the liquid column that finally stabilizes corresponds to the minimum surface energy. In a specific embodiment, it is assumed that the diameter of the first optical fiber end face 112 is D1, the diameter of the second optical fiber end face 122 is D2, and h is the maximum possible optical path. If the micro volume of the liquid can be, for example, 1 microliter to 5 microliters, then when the maximum possible optical path h = 1000um, D1 can be 1397um, and D2 can be 2387um.

[0093] Regardless of whether the capillary 130 is integrated into (the outer shell of) the second optical fiber, the central axis of the capillary end 131 (i.e., the center of the inner diameter of the flow path of the capillary at its capillary end 131) is preferably parallel to the central axis of the second fiber core (i.e., the optical axis 101) as previously described (see FIG6 ), but may also form a small angle therewith (see, for example, FIG7 ). This angle is preferably less than or equal to 30 degrees.

[0094] In some embodiments, the minimum radial distance L between the capillary end 131 and the second core end 124 may be Wherein, D2 is the diameter of the second optical fiber end face 122, and C is the radius of the second fiber core. For example, when the capillary end 131 can directly abut against the outermost edge of the second optical fiber 120, that is, In a preferred embodiment, when the capillary 130 is integrated into the second optical fiber 120, the minimum radial distance L between the capillary end 131 and the second core end 124 can be Wherein R is the outer radius of the capillary 130 .

[0095] When the capillary end 131 (mainly the end face) of the capillary 130 integrated into the second optical fiber 120 is flush with the surface where the second optical fiber end face 122 is located, the minimum radial distance L between the capillary end 131 and the second core end 124 can be:

[0096] Where D1 is the diameter of the first optical fiber end face 112, and r is the inner radius of the capillary 130. Here, D2 should be greater than D1, meaning that the diameter of the (first) optical fiber end face with the smaller diameter is used as the starting point for calculation. This is primarily due to the fact that, for example, when utilizing the hydrophilicity of the second optical fiber end face 122, a liquid droplet can be drawn between the capillary end 131 and the second optical fiber end face 122. By narrowing the distance between the first and second optical fiber end faces 112, the first optical fiber end face 112 can squeeze the liquid droplet, which can then be stretched into a liquid column. The drawn liquid column can maintain fluid communication with the capillary end 131.

[0097] When the capillary end 131 is located in the space between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122 (excluding the case where it is flush with the surface of the second optical fiber end face 122), for example, when the capillary is not integrated into the second optical fiber 120 but is moved into position from the side of the optical axis 101 (see Figure 12A), or when, for example, the capillary is partially integrated into the second optical fiber 120 but the capillary end 131 still protrudes into the space, the capillary 130 should not interfere with the formation of the liquid column between the upper and lower optical fibers. Therefore, the capillary end 131 should be located radially between D1 and D2. At this point, the minimum radial distance L between the capillary end 131 and the second core end 124 needs to meet the following requirements:

[0098] Where D1 is the diameter of the first optical fiber end face 112, r is the inner radius of the capillary 130, and A is the tilt angle of the capillary end 131 (primarily its end face) relative to the second optical fiber end face 122. Here, D2 is also greater than D1. Since the shape or extension direction of the capillary 130 itself is not the focus of the present invention, the calculation process primarily considers the tilt angle of the capillary end 131 (particularly its end face) relative to the second optical fiber end face 122, without considering the tilt angle of the entire capillary 130 (see Figure 8).

[0099] It can be understood that when the central axis of the capillary end 131 is parallel to the central axis of the second fiber core (ie, the optical axis 101), A is 0° (in this case, the above formula is simplified to ), and when the capillary (end) is introduced into the space between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122 from the side perpendicular to the optical axis 101, A is 90° (in this case, the above formula is simplified to ).

[0100] In addition, referring to FIG. 12B , the longitudinal spacing h (ie, height difference) between the center of the capillary end 131 (end face) and the second optical fiber end face 122 may satisfy:

[0101] h≤(ksinA+k)

[0102] Here, it is assumed that the liquid is in the form of a spherical liquid column, k is the radius of the liquid droplet, and A is still the tilt angle of the capillary end 131 relative to the second optical fiber end face 122. In this case, the volume of the liquid droplet must satisfy: For example, 1-5 μl.

[0103] In the following, several calculation examples will be specifically given in conjunction with Figures 13-16. In Figures 13-16, the horizontal axis is the distance h between the center of the capillary end 131 and the surface where the second optical fiber end face 122 is located, the left vertical axis is the radial distance from the capillary center to the optical axis 101 (which can be further converted into the minimum radial distance), and the right vertical axis is the liquid drop volume V. The yellow line corresponds to the relationship between the liquid drop volume V and h, the dark blue line corresponds to the relationship between the radial distance from the capillary center to the optical axis 101 and h, and the gray line corresponds to The orange line corresponds to

[0104] Assumptions is 0.6985mm, is 1.1935mm, R=225um, C is 0.2mm, V min =1uL, V max =5uL.

[0105] When A is 30°, to ensure the liquid (droplet) volume is between 1 and 5 microliters (i.e., between the green and light blue lines in Figure 13), h can be obtained to be between 0.31 mm and 0.53 mm. From this, it can be further determined that the radial distance from the capillary center to the optical axis 101 is 0.72-1.17 mm, meaning that the minimum radial distance L is 325 μm-775 μm.

[0106] When A is 15°, to ensure the liquid (droplet) volume is between 1 and 5 microliters (i.e., between the green and light blue lines in Figure 14), h can be obtained to be between 0.46 mm and 0.785 mm. From this, we can further determine that the radial distance from the capillary center to the optical axis 101 is 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm, meaning the minimum radial distance is 405 μm to 805 μm.

[0107] When A is 45°, as shown in Figure 15, the range of h is 0.18mm-0.31mm, but the value of the dark blue line corresponding to the value point of 0.18mm (i.e., under the condition of 1 microliter) is less than The capillary 130 will interfere with the first optical fiber 110 to stretch the liquid column, that is, the liquid volume cannot support the minimum liquid amount (for example, the minimum sample loading amount).

[0108] When A is 0°, as shown in Figure 16, the range of h is 0.625mm-1.065mm, but the value of the dark blue line corresponding to the value point of 1.065mm (i.e., under the condition of 5 microliters) is greater than The capillary 130 is already located outside the range of the second optical fiber 120 , that is, the liquid volume cannot support the maximum liquid amount (eg, the maximum sample loading amount).

[0109] As previously mentioned, the fluid system of the present invention may include one or more capillaries 130. In embodiments in which multiple capillaries 130 are provided, they may be arranged around the optical axis 101, preferably spaced apart at a large angle, such as 180° as shown in FIG. 6 (i.e., opposite each other), but this is not required. They may be located at different heights, but are preferably located at the same distance from the second optical fiber end face 122. In embodiments in which the capillaries 130 are disposed within the second optical fiber housing 125, the capillaries 130 may also be arranged around the second fiber core (and thus around the optical axis 101). Of course, it is also contemplated that at least one of the capillaries 130 is disposed within the second optical fiber housing 125, while the remaining capillaries 130 are disposed outside the second optical fiber housing 125, for example, at a certain vertical spacing from the second optical fiber end face 122. Preferably, at least one of the capillaries 130, and preferably all of the capillaries 130, extend within the second optical fiber (housing) in a direction parallel to the second fiber core.

[0110] The fluid system of the present invention also includes a pumping mechanism 140, which is fluidically connected to the capillary 130 so as to supply (pump) liquid to the capillary 130 (i.e., toward the capillary end 131) or discharge (pump away) liquid from the capillary (end) (see Figure 7). In other words, the pumping mechanism 140 can achieve pumping functions in two opposite directions. This allows the capillary 130 to not only be used to supply liquid to the space between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122 to help draw out the liquid column, but also to discharge liquid from the space.

[0111] Of course, if there is only one capillary tube 130, it cannot simultaneously supply and drain liquid. However, as previously mentioned, multiple capillaries 130 can be provided. In embodiments with multiple capillaries 130, liquid can be simultaneously supplied to and drained from the space between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122. However, it will be appreciated that utilizing multiple capillaries 130, or a portion thereof, allows for either only supplying liquid or only draining liquid at a given time.

[0112] In embodiments where capillaries are utilized to both supply and drain liquid, a liquid flow can be generated between the capillary 130, the first optical fiber end face 112, and the second optical fiber end face 122. Here, the capillary 130 refers to both the liquid supply capillary and the liquid drain capillary, but does not necessarily refer to all capillaries provided; rather, it refers only to the plurality of capillaries 130 in operation. In the present invention, the term "liquid flow" refers to the inflow and outflow of liquid or a liquid column held within the space between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122, i.e., liquid flows in and out simultaneously. It will be understood that this liquid flow has a clear vertical boundary, i.e., the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122, but does not have a clear radial boundary (e.g., left and right). That is, although the capillary 130 supplies and drains liquid, the location of the capillary end 131 does not necessarily constitute the left and right boundaries of the liquid in this space.

[0113] To supply and drain liquid from the space between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122, the pumping mechanism 140 may include multiple pumps. In some embodiments, different pumps may be fluidically connected to the capillary tube(s) 130 for supplying liquid and the capillary tube(s) 130 for draining liquid, respectively. However, in other embodiments, the same pump may be used for both supplying and draining liquid, simply by controlling its direction. It is worth noting that the present invention does not exclude the possibility of utilizing only the capillary tube 130 to supply liquid to the space, while draining the liquid is performed by other mechanisms or even manually.

[0114] In a preferred embodiment, a first capillary 133 and a second capillary 134 are provided within the second optical fiber 120, arranged relative to the second fiber core. Here, "relative arrangement" does not strictly require a 180° interval. The pumping mechanism 140 may include a first pump 141 and a second pump 142, wherein the first pump 141 may be configured to pump liquid toward the first capillary end (e.g., by forward rotation) or away from the first capillary end (e.g., by reverse rotation), while the second pump 142 may be configured to pump liquid toward the second capillary end 131 (e.g., by forward rotation) or away from the second capillary end (e.g., by reverse rotation). Thus, the first pump 141 and the second pump 142 can be flexibly arranged to simultaneously supply and discharge liquid through the capillary end 131. In one specific embodiment, the first pump 141 and the second pump 142 are configured to operate in opposite directions, so that liquid flows into one of the first capillary tube 133 and out of the other capillary tube 134, thereby causing the liquid held between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122 to flow. Furthermore, it is also possible to supply only liquid (during a period of time) or to discharge only liquid (during another period of time) through the capillary end 131. Various combinations of controlling the pumping mechanism 140 are conceivable to achieve the same or opposite flow directions between multiple capillaries 130, which will not be discussed in detail here.

[0115] To better control the flow path and facilitate fluid operations, the fluid system of the present invention may further include a switching valve 150, which may be arranged in fluid connection with the capillary tube 130. For example, the pumping mechanism 140 may be arranged in the flow path between the switching valve 150 and the capillary tube 130. Alternatively, the switching valve 150 may be arranged between the pumping mechanism 140 and the capillary tube 130, or even in the flow path of the capillary tube 130 itself.

[0116] To perform switching, the switching valve 150 may include multiple ports, and different fluid functions may be achieved with the multiple different ports (see FIG7 ). The switching valve 150 includes a port (e.g., a central port 154 in the embodiment of the rotary switching valve 150 ) that can selectively fluidically communicate with the capillary 130 (e.g., with the end distal to the second optical fiber end face 122 ), so that liquid or other fluid (e.g., gas) can be delivered to the capillary 130 via the port or liquid in the capillary 130 can be discharged via the port.

[0117] In addition to the port in fluid communication with the capillary 130, the switching valve 150 may also include at least one, preferably at least two, ports for communicating with external liquids or gases. For example, the switching valve 150 may include a first port 151 for supplying a sample; a second port 152 for supplying a cleaning agent; a third port 153 for discharging waste liquid; a fourth port for supplying a diluent or other reagents; and so on.

[0118] The present invention also relates to a fluid manipulation method for an optical measurement device 100, comprising basic steps. As previously mentioned, each (sub)step of the basic steps described in detail below is not necessarily essential for achieving the objectives of the present invention; "basic steps" is merely a general term for a series of steps.

[0119] The aforementioned basic steps may include a liquid supply step, namely, supplying liquid into the space between the first fiber end face 112 and the second fiber end face 122 using the capillary end 131 of the capillary tube 130, such that at least a portion of the supplied liquid constitutes at least a portion of a liquid column drawn between the first fiber end face 112 and the second fiber end face 122 by the surface tension of the liquid. It will be appreciated that, when the liquid supply step is performed, a pre-existing liquid column may already exist, and the liquid (e.g., diluent) supplied using the capillary end 131 may constitute an additional portion or a replacement portion of the pre-existing liquid column. Alternatively, a liquid column may not yet exist when the liquid supply step is performed, or even no liquid may yet exist between the first fiber end face 112 and the second fiber end face 122. Therefore, the phrase "constituting at least a portion of the drawn liquid column" means that at least a portion of the supplied liquid will constitute at least a portion of a liquid column drawn in other steps performed after the liquid supply step, rather than indicating that at least a portion of the pre-existing liquid column already exists.

[0120] The basic steps further include a distance adjustment step after the liquid supply step, namely, actuating at least one of the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120 (preferably, only actuating the upper first optical fiber 110) to change the relative distance between the two so that a liquid column is maintained or drawn between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122. Adjusting the distance facilitates drawing out the liquid column after liquid supply, thereby enabling subsequent optical measurements (e.g., absorbance measurements). It will be appreciated that in the basic steps, the distance adjustment step can be performed a predetermined number of times after the liquid supply step, preferably more than once (see further specific examples below).

[0121] In a preferred embodiment, the distance adjustment step can include two consecutive sub-steps: a distance reduction step and a distance increase step. Both sub-steps involve reducing and increasing the distance between the first and second optical fiber end faces 112, 122 by actuating at least one of the first and second optical fibers 110, 120 (preferably the first optical fiber 110). Reducing the distance before increasing it facilitates rinsing the first and second optical fiber end faces 112, 122, making it easier to draw the desired liquid column during the distance increase step. It should be understood that the term "successively" refers to the two sub-steps being performed sequentially, but does not mean there is no gap between them. In some cases, the distance adjustment step may include only the distance reduction step, thereby facilitating the drainage of liquid from the space between the first and second optical fiber end faces 112, 122 (e.g., from the liquid column) via the capillary end 131. In other cases, the distance adjustment step may include only the distance increase step, enabling rapid drawing of the desired liquid column after liquid is supplied.

[0122] It can be understood that the liquid supplying step and the distance adjusting step in the basic steps are generally necessary to realize automatic liquid supply using a capillary tube.

[0123] Preferably, the basic steps may further include an optical measurement step performed after the distance adjustment step, for optically measuring the liquid column, including but not limited to absorbance measurement. More preferably, the optical measurement device 100 may be further controlled based on the measured (physical, chemical) parameters, such as triggering other steps or repeating one or more steps in the basic steps. For example, when executing the basic steps including the optical measurement step, after the optical measurement step, if the measured parameters meet the predetermined conditions, the distance adjustment step is performed. Since the basic steps are still being executed, the optical measurement step is performed after the distance adjustment step is completed, and this cycle is repeated until the measured parameters do not meet the predetermined conditions.

[0124] In some embodiments, a liquid drainage step may be performed after the optical measurement step or after a basic step, whether or not it includes an optical measurement step. This step involves draining liquid from the aforementioned space via the capillary end 131. However, draining all of the liquid from the space is not required. As previously mentioned, it is preferred that the liquid be directly aspirated or withdrawn from the second optical fiber end face 122 via the capillary end 131.

[0125] As previously mentioned, since a smaller distance between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122 makes it easier to drain the liquid from the space between them, it is advantageous to actuate at least one of the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120 to reduce the relative distance between them after the basic step (whether or not it includes an optical measurement step) is completed (e.g., after the optical measurement step is completed) but before the liquid drainage step. This step is independent of the distance adjustment step in the basic step and is a separate step.

[0126] Furthermore, before executing the basic step, the fluid manipulation method of the present invention may further include a distance increasing step, i.e., actuating at least one of the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120 to increase the relative distance therebetween. This may help provide sufficient space for the liquid supply to operate.

[0127] The fluid operation method of the present invention may also include a variety of different operation modes, such as a cleaning mode, a dilution mode, a sample loading mode, etc., which will be further explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0128] In the cleaning mode, a liquid discharge step is performed after the basic step (excluding the aforementioned optical measurement step): liquid is discharged from the space via the end of the capillary tube. This embodiment is suitable for applications where the requirements for cleaning time and effect are not high.

[0129] In other embodiments, in cleaning mode, after executing the basic steps including the optical measurement step (i.e., after executing the optical measurement step in the basic steps), if the measured parameter (e.g., absorbance) is greater than a first threshold, the liquid discharge step and the basic steps (i.e., at least the liquid supply step, the distance adjustment step, and the optical measurement step) are sequentially executed. Optionally, if the parameter is less than or equal to the first threshold at this time, the operation can be stopped. Assuming that after executing the optical measurement step again, if the measured parameter is still greater than the first threshold, the above process is repeated. The liquid supplied in cleaning mode preferably includes a cleaning liquid, but (partial) use of a sample is not excluded.

[0130] In a specific embodiment, before supplying the cleaning liquid, a capillary tube (end) may be used to extract the sample liquid column (liquid) existing in the space between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122, for example, into a waste liquid bottle 160. The waste liquid bottle 160 may or may not be included in the fluid system of the present invention. Also optionally, after extracting the sample liquid column (liquid), at least one of the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120 (e.g., the upper first optical fiber 110) may be actuated to increase the relative distance between the two. However, it will be understood that before performing the basic steps, neither the first optical fiber 110 nor the second optical fiber 120 may move, for example, the upper arm 111 supporting the first optical fiber 110 may remain stationary. This saves time and actuation steps compared to manual operation where the upper arm 111 must be lifted.

[0131] In cleaning mode, the following basic steps are performed: first, a capillary (end) is used to deliver cleaning fluid to the space between the first and second optical fiber end faces 112, 122, preferably onto the second optical fiber end face 122. A distance adjustment step is then performed, preferably a distance reduction step and a distance increase step. A predetermined number of distance adjustment steps (e.g., 2-5 times) are particularly preferred to fully rinse the first and second optical fiber end faces 112, 122 and form a liquid column. Advantageously, a parameter of the current liquid column, such as absorbance, is measured using the first and second optical fibers 110, 120. If the absorbance is greater than a certain value (e.g., 0.04 A / cm), all of the above steps are repeated until the absorbance is less than or equal to the certain value. "Absorbance less than or equal to the certain value" can be considered to indicate that the cleaning objective has been achieved, and no further supply of cleaning fluid is required.

[0132] Of course, when the measured absorbance is less than or equal to the certain value, at least one of the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120, preferably the first optical fiber 110, can be actuated to reduce the distance between the two, that is, compress the liquid column, and then use the capillary to extract the current liquid column into the waste liquid bottle 160, and then actuate at least one of the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120 to increase the distance and prepare for other operations.

[0133] The cleaning mode shown in FIG. 10 does not show the liquid supply step, but shows the distance adjustment step and the liquid removal step performed after the basic step.

[0134] When performing measurements using the optical measurement device 100 of the present invention, if the current sample concentration approaches or is greater than or equal to the upper limit of the device, a dilution mode is generally activated. In dilution mode, the liquid can be a diluent (of any concentration). Before the basic steps are initiated, i.e., before the liquid supply step, a liquid column, particularly a sample liquid column, is formed between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122. After executing the basic steps including the optical measurement steps (i.e., executing the optical measurement steps within the basic steps), if the measured parameter is greater than a second threshold and the current volume of the liquid column is less than a predetermined volume, the basic steps are repeated until the measured parameter is less than or equal to the second threshold or the current volume of the liquid column is greater than or equal to the predetermined volume. Preferably, before executing the basic steps, it is not necessary to actuate the first optical fiber 110 or the second optical fiber 120 to increase the distance between them. This saves time and actuation steps compared to manual operation where the upper arm 111 must be raised.

[0135] In a specific embodiment, the basic steps are performed. The capillary 130 draws a certain volume of diluent into the liquid column formed between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122. The distance adjustment step preferably includes first actuating at least one of the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120, preferably the first optical fiber 110, to reduce the distance between the two (i.e., compress the liquid column), and then actuating at least one of the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120, preferably the first optical fiber 110, to increase the distance between the two (i.e., stretch the liquid column). It is particularly preferred that the distance adjustment step can be performed multiple times, for example 2-5 times, to complete the dilution of the sample (liquid column). Subsequently, an optical measurement step is performed, using the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120 to measure the parameter of the current sample liquid column, in this example, the absorbance. When the absorbance is greater than the testable range and the total volume of the liquid column is less than 5uL, the above process is repeated.

[0136] One common fluidic operation is sample loading, which involves forming a sample liquid column suitable for measurement. In sample loading mode, the liquid serves as the sample. Before executing the basic step, i.e., before starting the liquid supply step, at least one of the first optical fiber 110 and the second optical fiber 120, preferably the first optical fiber 110, is actuated to increase the relative distance between them. However, this is not required and depends on the original spacing between the optical fibers when the sample loading mode is initiated.

[0137] In one specific example, the distance between the first fiber end face 112 and the second fiber end face 122 can be optionally increased, but this is not required. The basic steps are as follows: first, the sample liquid is supplied to the space between the first fiber end face 112 and the second fiber end face 122, particularly onto the second fiber end face 122, via the capillary end 131; then, the distance between the first fiber end face 112 and the second fiber end face 122 is reduced to compress the sample liquid column; and finally, the distance between the first fiber end face 112 and the second fiber end face 122 is increased to stretch the liquid column. That is, the distance adjustment step can be performed at least once, for example, twice or three times, to form a sample liquid column that is conducive to optical measurements (e.g., absorbance measurement, fluorescence measurement, etc.). Figure 9 schematically illustrates the basic steps described above, namely, supplying the sample liquid and adjusting the distance between the first fiber end face 112 and the second fiber end face 122.

[0138] Each of the aforementioned processes, including cleaning, dilution, and sample loading, can be automated without manual intervention. In particular, the capillary 130 for liquid supply, liquid removal, optical fiber actuation, and optical measurement is automated, significantly improving testing efficiency, reducing labor and time, and enhancing accuracy. The prior art sample loading process typically involves raising the upper arm 111 supporting the upper optical fiber, using a pipette to add the sample to the end face of the lower optical fiber, and then lowering the upper arm 111 until it contacts the sample liquid.

[0139] It will be appreciated that in an embodiment including only one capillary tube 130, the pumping mechanism 140 can be used to supply liquid (whether a cleaning liquid, a diluent, or a sample) and discharge the liquid, for example, by rotating the pump forward and reversely. Furthermore, the switching valve 150 can be used to supply and discharge different liquids, for example, with each port of the switching valve 150 being (selectively) fluidically connected to a different liquid storage container.

[0140] In an embodiment including multiple capillaries 130, at least one capillary may be used only for supplying liquid, while at least one other capillary may be used only for draining liquid. In this case, the pump associated with the capillary for supplying liquid and the pump associated with the capillary for draining liquid operate in opposite directions, and these pumps may not have bidirectional pumping capabilities to reduce design requirements and costs. Although various operating modes have been described above, the present invention does not exclude the use of different capillaries for simultaneously supplying and draining liquid in embodiments including multiple capillaries, thereby allowing liquid in the space between the first optical fiber end face 112 and the second optical fiber end face 122 to flow. Of course, in embodiments where simultaneous supply and draining of liquid are not required, the liquid in at least some of the multiple capillaries can maintain the same flow direction and then reverse direction (if necessary) using the control of the pumping mechanism 140.

[0141] Although various embodiments of the present invention are described in the drawings with reference to structural examples based on a micro-spectrophotometer, it should be understood that embodiments within the scope of the present invention can be applied to optical measurement devices or optical measurement methods having similar structures and / or functions.

[0142] The foregoing description has presented numerous features and advantages, including various alternative embodiments, and details of the structure and function of apparatus and methods. This description is intended to be illustrative and not exhaustive or limiting.

[0143] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made within the full scope indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms expressed in the appended claims, especially in terms of structure, materials, elements, components, shapes, sizes and arrangements of components, including combinations of these aspects within the scope of the principles described herein. To the extent that these various modifications do not depart from the spirit and scope of the appended claims, they are intended to be included therein.

Claims

1. A fluid system for an optical measuring device, the optical measuring device comprising a first optical fiber located above and a second optical fiber located below, the first optical fiber comprising a first fiber core and a first fiber end face, and the second optical fiber comprising a second fiber core and a second fiber end face facing the first fiber end face, characterized in that: The fluid system includes a capillary, which is arranged close to the second fiber core along the radial direction of the second optical fiber and is configured to supply liquid to the space between the first optical fiber end face and the second optical fiber end face through its capillary end, so that at least a portion of the supplied liquid constitutes at least a portion of the liquid column drawn between the first optical fiber end face and the second optical fiber end face by surface tension.

2. The fluid system according to claim 1, wherein: The capillary is oriented at an angle between 0 and 30 degrees relative to the second core.

3. The fluid system according to claim 2, wherein: The capillary extends inside the second optical fiber.

4. The fluid system according to claim 3, wherein: The second core end of the second core is located at the second optical fiber end face, and the minimum radial distance L between the capillary end and the second core end satisfies the following conditions: Wherein, D1 is the diameter of the first optical fiber end face, D2 is the diameter of the second optical fiber end face, C is the radius of the second fiber core, R is the outer radius of the capillary, r is the inner radius of the capillary, and D2 is greater than D1.

5. The fluid system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The capillary tube is configured to discharge liquid from the space via a capillary tube end thereof.

6. The fluid system according to claim 5, wherein: A plurality of capillaries are provided inside the second optical fiber and are arranged around the second core.

7. The fluid system according to claim 4, wherein: The fluid system further comprises a pumping mechanism arranged in fluid connection with the capillary tube to pump liquid towards or away from an end of the capillary tube.

8. The fluid system according to claim 7, wherein: A first capillary and a second capillary are provided inside the second optical fiber and are arranged relative to the second fiber core. The pumping mechanism includes a first pump and a second pump. The first pump is configured to pump liquid toward or from an end of the first capillary, and the second pump is configured to pump liquid toward or from an end of the second capillary.

9. The fluid system according to claim 8, wherein: The first pump and the second pump are configured to operate in opposite directions so that liquid flows into one of the first capillary and the second capillary and flows out of the other, thereby forming a flow of liquid between the first optical fiber end face and the second optical fiber end face.

10. The fluid system according to claim 4, wherein: The fluid system further comprises a switching valve, which is arranged to be connected to the capillary fluid and comprises a plurality of switchable ports. The switching valve is configured to selectively deliver the liquid to the capillary tube via a corresponding port among the plurality of ports, or selectively discharge the liquid from the capillary tube via a corresponding port among the plurality of ports.

11. The fluid system according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of ports of the switching valve include at least one of the following: a first port for supplying a sample; a second port for supplying a cleaning agent; A third port is provided for draining waste.

12. A fluid operation method for an optical measurement device, the optical measurement device comprising a first optical fiber located above and a second optical fiber located below, the first optical fiber comprising a first fiber core and a first fiber end face, and the second optical fiber comprising a second fiber core and a second fiber end face facing the first fiber end face. It is characterized in that The method comprises performing the following basic steps, which are as follows: a liquid supplying step of supplying liquid to the space between the first optical fiber end face and the second optical fiber end face using a capillary end of a capillary tube, so that at least a portion of the supplied liquid constitutes at least a portion of a liquid column drawn between the first optical fiber end face and the second optical fiber end face by surface tension; The distance adjustment step comprises actuating at least one of the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber to change the relative distance therebetween, so that the liquid column is maintained between the end face of the first optical fiber and the end face of the second optical fiber.

13. The fluid operation method according to claim 12, wherein: The method comprises a cleaning mode in which a liquid draining step is performed after the basic step: draining liquid from the space via the capillary end.

14. The fluid operation method according to claim 12, wherein: The basic steps further include an optical measurement step performed after the distance adjustment step: optically measuring the liquid column.

15. The fluid operation method according to claim 14, wherein: The method further includes a liquid discharging step performed after the optical measuring step: discharging the liquid from the space via the capillary end.

16. The fluid operation method according to claim 14, wherein: When executing the basic steps, after the optical measurement step, if the measured parameters meet predetermined conditions, the distance adjustment step is executed.

17. The fluid operation method according to claim 12, wherein: The distance adjustment steps sequentially include: a distance reduction step of actuating at least one of the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber to reduce the relative distance between the two; The distance increasing step includes actuating at least one of the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber to increase the relative distance between the two.

18. The fluid operation method according to claim 15, wherein: After the optical measuring step and before the liquid discharging step, at least one of the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber is actuated to reduce a relative distance therebetween.

19. The fluid operation method according to claim 15, wherein: The method includes a cleaning mode. In the cleaning mode, after performing the optical measurement step, if the measured parameter is greater than a first threshold, the liquid discharge step and the basic step are sequentially performed.

20. The fluid operation method according to claim 14, wherein: The method includes a dilution mode, in which a liquid column is formed between the first optical fiber end face and the second optical fiber end face before the liquid supplying step; Wherein, after performing the optical measurement step, if the measured parameter is greater than a second threshold value and the current volume of the liquid column is less than a predetermined volume, the basic step is performed.

21. The fluid operation method according to claim 12, wherein: The method includes a sample loading mode in which the liquid is a sample, wherein before the liquid supplying step, at least one of the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber is actuated to increase a relative distance therebetween.

22. The fluid operation method according to claim 12, wherein: When executing the basic step, the distance adjustment step is executed a predetermined number of times, and the predetermined number of times is more than one.

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