Fluid chamber, and fluid chip module and fluid chip assembly comprising same

Abstract

Disclosed are a fluid chamber capable of controlling storage and supply of a fluid and reducing the entire volume thereof, and a fluid chip module and a fluid chip assembly comprising same. The fluid chamber is to store and transfer a fluid supplied to a fluid chip and comprises: a housing having an accommodation space in which a fluid is accommodated and at least one outlet through which the fluid is discharged; an elastic membrane disposed inside the housing and covering an inner end of the outlet; and at least one needle extending from an inner surface of the housing toward the outlet. When the housing is pressed, the needle passes through the elastic membrane to allow the outlet and the accommodation space to communicate with each other.

Description

Fluid chamber, fluid chip module having the same, and fluid chip assembly

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid chamber, a fluid chip module having the same, and a fluid chip assembly, and more specifically, to a fluid chamber capable of controlling the supply of fluid, a fluid chip module having the same, and a fluid chip assembly.

[0002] Lab-on-a-Chip (LOC) technology is being used to manufacture next-generation point-of-care (POC) devices, a key component of the biotechnology industry. Lab-on-a-chip technology is a device technology that performs biomaterial or biochemical analyses using small samples. Research and development on LOCs has been actively underway recently. Lab-on-a-chip technology analyzes biochemical samples within a single, miniaturized device, and various types of LOC devices are being commercialized to perform POC testing.

[0003] Lab-on-a-chips are equipped with microchannels for fluid flow. In some cases, microfluidic control valves are provided to control the flow of fluids along the microchannels. Microfluidic control valves function to block or open the flow of microfluid within the microchannels of the lab-on-a-chip and are manufactured in various forms.

[0004] Conventional microfluidic control valves are typically large, making miniaturization of lab-on-a-chips difficult. Furthermore, lab-on-a-chips utilizing conventional microfluidic control valves require a separate component for supplying fluids (e.g., reagents or samples), preventing the miniaturization of lab-on-a-chips.

[0005] In addition, conventional microfluid control valves have a complex structure, making them difficult to mass-produce at low cost.

[0006] Recently, the lab-on-a-chip market has been growing centered on disposable biochips, and there is a need for technological development for lab-on-a-chips and microfluidic control valves that are miniaturized and can be mass-produced at low cost.

[0007] The present invention is intended to solve the above problems, and provides a fluid chamber capable of controlling fluid storage and supply and miniaturizing the size to enable mass production, a fluid chip module and a fluid chip assembly having the same.

[0008] According to embodiments of the present invention for solving the above problem, a fluid chamber for storing and transporting a fluid supplied to a fluid chip comprises: a housing having a receiving space for receiving a fluid and at least one outlet for discharging the fluid; an elastic membrane disposed inside the housing and covering an inner end of the outlet; and at least one needle extending from an inner surface of the housing toward the outlet, wherein when the housing is pressurized, the needle penetrates the elastic membrane to connect the outlet and the receiving space.

[0009] The housing comprises an upper body having at least a portion of a dome shape; and a lower body coupled to a lower portion of the upper body and supporting the elastic membrane.

[0010] The above elastic membrane is attached to the lower part of the upper body and is placed between the upper body and the lower body.

[0011] The upper body includes a dome portion having a dome shape; a rim portion formed along the edge of the dome portion and having the elastic membrane attached thereto;

[0012] The above needle has an extended length shorter than the height of the space formed by the upper body.

[0013] The above needle is formed integrally with the housing.

[0014] The above needle has a shape in which its width decreases in the direction toward the outlet.

[0015] The above needle has a different material from the above housing.

[0016] The above needles are at least partially made of metal.

[0017] The above housing is at least partially made of synthetic resin material.

[0018] The at least one needle is provided in a plurality and is spaced apart from each other, and the at least one discharge port is provided in a plurality and is arranged at a position corresponding to each of the plurality of needles.

[0019] The housing further includes at least one partition wall that divides the receiving space, and the at least one needle is provided in a number corresponding to the number of spaces divided by the partition wall.

[0020] The above at least one bulkhead is provided in multiple numbers and is arranged to intersect with each other.

[0021] The at least one discharge port is provided in a number corresponding to the number of spaces partitioned by the at least one bulkhead.

[0022] A fluid chip module according to embodiments of the present invention comprises: a fluid chip having at least one fluid-movable channel, an inlet and an outlet communicating with the at least one channel; and a fluid chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 14, connected to the inlet and for supplying fluid to the channel.

[0023] The fluid chip is connected to an aspirator through the outlet, and is configured to draw fluid from the fluid chamber into the at least one flow path through negative pressure generated by the aspirator.

[0024] The fluid chamber has a plurality of outlets, one of the outlets is connected to a pump, and the other outlet is connected to the inlet, and the fluid chip is configured to supply fluid from the fluid chamber to the at least one flow path through a positive pressure generated by the pump.

[0025] A fluid chip assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of fluid chips having at least one fluid-movable channel, an inlet port and an outlet port communicating with the at least one channel; and at least one single fluid chamber connected to each of the plurality of fluid chips so as to communicate the plurality of fluid chips.

[0026] The at least one single fluid chamber has a plurality of outlets, wherein one outlet is connected to an inlet of one of the plurality of fluid chips, and the other outlet is connected to an outlet of another of the plurality of fluid chips.

[0027] The at least one fluid chamber further comprises at least one composite fluid chamber, which is provided in a plurality of units and has a plurality of outlets, and in which the plurality of outlets are each connected to one of the fluid chips so as to supply different types of fluids to one of the fluid chips.

[0028] According to the present invention, a fluid chamber that controls the supply of fluid in a fluid chip module is manufactured in a miniaturized form. Since the fluid chamber is manufactured in a miniaturized form, the overall size of the microfluidic chip can be manufactured in a smaller form.

[0029] Additionally, the fluid chamber stores fluid and selectively supplies the stored fluid to the fluid chip module. Since the fluid chamber controls the fluid supply, the fluid chip module does not require a separate fluid supply means. This allows the fluid chip module to be manufactured in a smaller size.

[0030] Additionally, the fluid chamber housing is pressurized, the needle cuts the elastic membrane, and the fluid in the housing is supplied to the fluid chip module. Therefore, the experimenter can easily supply the fluid stored in the fluid chamber to the fluid chip module.

[0031] Additionally, the fluid chamber connects different fluid chips. Different fluid chips are connected without a separate connection structure, effectively allowing fluid to flow between different fluid chips.

[0032] FIG. 1a is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a fluid chamber according to a first embodiment of the present invention from above.

[0033] FIG. 1b is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a fluid chamber according to the first embodiment of the present invention from the bottom.

[0034] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a fluid chamber according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid chamber according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a fluid chamber according to a first embodiment of the present invention pressurized and an elastic membrane cut.

[0037] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid chamber according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a fluid chamber according to a second embodiment of the present invention in which the fluid chamber is pressurized and the elastic membrane is cut.

[0039] FIG. 7a is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a fluid chamber according to a third embodiment of the present invention from the top.

[0040] FIG. 7b is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a fluid chamber according to a third embodiment of the present invention from the bottom.

[0041] FIG. 8a is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a housing according to a third embodiment of the present invention from the top.

[0042] FIG. 8b is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a housing according to a third embodiment of the present invention from the bottom.

[0043] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid chamber according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating the structure of a fluid chip module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing the structure of a fluid chip module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a fluid chip assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the structure of a fluid chip assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] The embodiments described herein are susceptible to various modifications. Specific embodiments may be depicted in the drawings and further described in the detailed description. However, the specific embodiments disclosed in the accompanying drawings are merely intended to facilitate understanding of various embodiments. Therefore, the technical concepts disclosed in the accompanying drawings are not intended to be limited by the specific embodiments disclosed in the accompanying drawings, but should be understood to include all equivalents or alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the invention.

[0049] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but these components are not limited by the aforementioned terms. The aforementioned terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0050] In this specification, terms such as "comprises" or "has" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but should be understood as not excluding in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof. When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but that other components may also be present in between. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components present in between.

[0051] Meanwhile, the "module" or "part" used in this specification for a component performs at least one function or operation. Furthermore, the "module" or "part" may perform the function or operation by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Furthermore, multiple "modules" or multiple "parts," excluding a "module" or "part" that must be performed on specific hardware or performed on at least one processor, may be integrated into at least one module. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0052] In addition, when describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known function or configuration may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description thereof is abbreviated or omitted.

[0053] Below, various embodiments are described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0054]

[0055] FIG. 1a is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a fluid chamber according to a first embodiment of the present invention from a top view, FIG. 1b is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a fluid chamber according to a first embodiment of the present invention from a bottom view, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a fluid chamber according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid chamber according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a view illustrating a state in which a fluid chamber according to a first embodiment of the present invention is pressurized and an elastic membrane is cut.

[0056] Hereinafter, the structure of a fluid chamber (1100) according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 4. An example of a case in which the fluid chamber (1100) according to the first embodiment of the present invention is applied to a fluid chip module according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0057] The fluid chamber (1100) according to the first embodiment of the present invention is a fluid chamber connected to a fluid chip (or tube) and for storing and transporting a fluid (F) supplied to the fluid chip.

[0058] A fluid chamber (1100) according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a housing (1110), an elastic membrane (1120), and a needle (1130).

[0059] A fluid chamber (1100) according to a first embodiment of the present invention includes a housing (1110) having a receiving space (S) for receiving a fluid (F) and at least one outlet (1112a) for discharging the fluid (F), an elastic membrane (1120) disposed inside the housing (1110) and covering an inner end of the outlet (1112a), and at least one needle (1130) extending from the inner surface of the housing (1110) toward the outlet (1112a). The fluid chamber (1100) according to the first embodiment is configured such that when the housing (1110) is pressurized, the needle (1130) penetrates the elastic membrane (1120) so that the outlet (1112a) and the receiving space (S) are connected to each other.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 1A, a housing (1110) forms the body of a fluid chamber (1100). The upper portion of the housing (1110) is pressurized, and the fluid (F) contained therein is discharged through a discharge port (1112a). In the first embodiment of the present invention, a case in which at least a portion of the housing (1110) is formed of a synthetic resin material is exemplarily described.

[0061] The housing (1110) includes an upper body (1111) and a lower body (1112).

[0062] The upper body (1111) forms a receiving space (S) and receives a fluid (e.g., a reagent or sample) in the receiving space (S). The lower part of the upper body (1111) is concavely retracted inward along the vertical direction (see FIG. 1a). The upper part of the upper body (1111) is formed in a dome shape, and the lower part is open. An elastic membrane (1120) is attached to the lower part of the upper body (1111). The receiving space (S) of the upper body (1111) is sealed by the elastic membrane (1120) attached to the lower part. Since the open lower part of the upper body (1111) is closed by the elastic membrane (1120), the fluid can be stored in the sealed receiving space (S).

[0063] Referring to FIG. 3, the upper body (1111) includes a dome portion (1111a) and a rim portion (1111b).

[0064] The dome portion (1111a) has a dome shape and forms a part of the receiving space (S) (e.g., the upper area of ​​the receiving space (S)). The dome portion (1111a) has a needle (1130) integrally formed in a portion of its inner wall that is formed in a flat shape.

[0065] The dome portion (1111a) is composed of an inner wall forming a receiving space (S) and a curved part (1111aa) and a horizontal part (1111ab). The curved part (1111aa) is a portion of the inner wall of the dome portion (1111a) that extends upward in a rounded manner from the rim part (1111b) toward the upper end of the upper body (1111). The horizontal part (1111ab) is a portion of the inner wall of the dome portion (1111a) that is formed horizontally along the radial direction (radial direction of a circle with the up-down direction as the central axis) (see Fig. 1a) from the upper end of the curved part (1111aa). A needle (1130) is integrally provided in the horizontal part (1111ab).

[0066] The dome portion (1111a) is elastic. The dome portion (1111a) is formed of a synthetic resin material. The dome portion (1111a) formed of an elastic material can be pressed by the experimenter's motion, and when pressed, its shape is deformed into a downwardly curled (crushed) shape as shown in FIG. 4. The dome portion (1111a) is curled downward, and the needle (1130) formed integrally with the horizontal part (1111ab) of the dome portion (1111a) moves downward. For example, the dome portion (1111a) is formed of silicone.

[0067] The rim (1111b) extends along the edge of the dome (1111a), and an elastic membrane (1120) is attached to the lower portion of the rim (1111b). The rim (1111b) can be inserted into the interior of the lower body (1112).

[0068] The rim (1111b) forms a receiving space (S) together with the dome (1111a). The rim (1111b) forms the remaining portion of the receiving space (S) (e.g., the lower portion of the receiving space (S)) among the receiving space (S). A portion of the rim (1111b) extends along the radial direction of a circle with the vertical direction as its central axis, and the remaining portion extends downward along the vertical direction from the end portion extending along the radial direction.

[0069] Additionally, the rim (1111b) is formed of an elastic material. For example, the rim (1111b) is formed of a synthetic resin material.

[0070] The lower body (1112) is connected to the lower part (i.e., the rim part (1111b)) of the upper body (1111) and supports the elastic membrane (1120). The upper part of the lower body (1112) is recessed inwardly in the vertical direction, and the rim part (1111b) is inserted into the recessed upper part.

[0071] The lower body (1112) is provided with a discharge port (1112a) extending vertically through its lower portion. A needle (1130) that is lowered by the upper body (1111) and penetrates (and cuts) the elastic membrane (1120) can be inserted into the discharge port (1112a) of the lower body (1112). The lower portion of the needle is inserted into the discharge port (1112a), and the fluid contained in the receiving space (S) is discharged through the discharge port (1112a) of the lower body (1112).

[0072] Additionally, a fluid chip is connected to the lower end of the discharge port (1112a), and fluid can be supplied to the fluid chip through the discharge port (1112a). A tube may also be connected to the lower end of the discharge port (1112a), and fluid discharged through the discharge port (1112a) can be supplied to the fluid chip through the tube.

[0073] The lower body (1112) is formed so that the inner wall forming the outlet (1112a) gradually decreases in width from the upper side to the lower side in the vertical direction. The outlet (1112a) is formed so that the inner diameter gradually decreases from the upper side to the lower side in the vertical direction. The inner wall of the lower body (1112) forming the outlet (1112a) may have a rate of decrease in width from the upper side to the lower side that is greater than the rate of decrease in width of the needle (1130) that decreases in width from the upper side to the lower side. As illustrated in Fig. 3, with the upper-lower direction as the reference axis, the angle of inclination of the inner wall of the lower body (1112) forming the outlet (1112a) is formed to be greater than the angle of inclination of the needle (1130). Accordingly, even if the needle (1130) penetrates the elastic membrane (1120) and is inserted into the discharge port (1112a), when the needle (1130) is inserted into the discharge port (1112a), a free space is created in the discharge port (1112a) along the circumference of the inserted needle (1130), and fluid can be drawn into and discharged in the created free space.

[0074] Additionally, the lower body (1112) is formed of a synthetic resin material having a relatively higher hardness than the material forming the upper body (1111).

[0075] An elastic membrane (1120) is placed between the upper body (1111) and the lower body (1112). The elastic membrane (1120) is attached to the open lower portion of the upper body (1111) and seals the receiving space (S). The elastic membrane (1120) is attached to the lower portion of the upper body (1111) by laminating. For example, the elastic membrane (1120) is formed as a film.

[0076] The diameter of the elastic membrane (1120) is formed to be equal to or larger than the diameter of the rim (1111b), and is formed to be equal to or smaller than the inner diameter of the concave portion of the lower body (1112).

[0077] The needle (1130) extends from the inner surface of the housing (1110) (horizontal part (1111ab) of the dome portion (1111a)) toward the discharge port (1112a). When the housing (1110) is pressurized, the needle (1130) descends together with the dome portion (1111a), penetrates the elastic membrane (1120), and connects the receiving space (S) and the discharge port (1112a).

[0078] The needle (1130) is formed on the horizontal part (1111ab) of the dome portion (1111a). The needle (1130) is formed integrally with the dome portion (1111a).

[0079] The needle (1130) has a shape in which its width decreases in the direction toward the discharge port (1112a) (i.e., from the upper side to the lower side in the vertical direction). For example, the needle (1130) is formed in a cone shape.

[0080] The needle (1130) is formed so that the length extending in the vertical direction is shorter than the vertical length of the space formed by the dome portion (1111a) (i.e., a part of the receiving space (S)).

[0081] The needle (1130) is formed of at least a portion of a material different from that of the housing (1110). The needle (1130) is formed of a material having a harder material than the elastic membrane (1120). For example, the needle (1130) may be formed of a metal material. The entirety of the needle (1130) may be formed of a material different from that of the upper body (1111) of the housing (1110), or the lower portion penetrating the elastic membrane (1120) may be formed of a material different from that of the upper body (1111). In the first embodiment of the present invention, a case in which the entirety of the needle (1130) is formed of a material different from that of the upper body (1111) will be described as an example.

[0082] As illustrated in Fig. 4, the dome (1111a) is pressurized by the experimenter's pressing motion, and the needle (1130) is lowered together. The lowered needle (1130) cuts the elastic membrane (1120), and the receiving space (S) and the discharge port (1112a) are connected. Accordingly, the fluid (F) in the receiving space (S) passes through the cut portion and is discharged to the outside of the fluid chamber (1100) through the discharge port (1112a).

[0083]

[0084] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid chamber according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a fluid chamber according to the second embodiment of the present invention pressurized and with an elastic membrane cut.

[0085] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the structure of a fluid chamber (2100) according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. An example of a case where the fluid chamber (2100) according to the second embodiment of the present invention is applied to a fluid chip module according to the second embodiment will be described. While describing the structure of the fluid chamber (2100) according to the second embodiment of the present invention, a description of the same structure as the fluid chamber (2100) according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be omitted.

[0086] The fluid chamber (2100) according to the second embodiment of the present invention is a fluid chamber that is connected to a fluid chip and a pump, respectively, and stores and transports a fluid (F) supplied to the fluid chip.

[0087] A fluid chamber (2100) according to a second embodiment of the present invention includes a housing (2110), an elastic membrane (2120), and a plurality of needles (2130).

[0088] The housing (2110) forms the body of the fluid chamber (2100).

[0089] The housing (2110) includes an upper body (2111) and a lower body (2112).

[0090] The upper body (2111) forms a receiving space (S) and receives a fluid (F) in the receiving space (S).

[0091] The upper body (2111) includes a dome portion (2111a) and a rim portion (2111b).

[0092] The dome portion (2111a) forms part of the receiving space (S) and is formed of an elastic material. The dome portion (2111a) formed of an elastic material is pressurized by the experimenter's motion and lowers the needle (2130). The dome portion (2111a) includes a curved part (2111aa) and a horizontal part (2111ab).

[0093] A plurality of needles (2130) are integrally provided in the horizontal part (2111ab) of the dome (2111a).

[0094] The rim (2111b) is formed in a cylindrical shape extending along the edge of the dome (2111a) and forms a receiving space (S) together with the dome (2111a). The rim (2111b) forms the remaining portion of the receiving space (S) among the receiving spaces (S).

[0095] The lower body (2112) is connected to the lower part of the upper body (2111) and supports the elastic membrane (2120). The lower body (2112) is provided with an outlet (2112a) extending vertically through the lower part thereof. The outlets (2112a) are provided in multiple numbers, and are formed in a number corresponding to the plurality of needles (2130). In addition, the plurality of outlets (2112a) are arranged at positions (e.g., coaxially) corresponding to the plurality of needles (2130).

[0096] A lower portion of a needle (2130) that is lowered by the upper body (2111) and penetrates (and cuts) the elastic membrane (2120) can be inserted into the plurality of outlets (2112a). The fluid contained in the receiving space (S) is discharged through one of the plurality of outlets (2112a). In the fluid chamber (2100) according to the second embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 5, the number of the plurality of outlets (2112a) is illustrated as two, but it is obvious that the number of the plurality of outlets (2112a) can be changed depending on conditions such as the number of the plurality of needles (2130).

[0097] Additionally, a fluid chip and a pump are respectively connected to the plurality of outlets (2112a). A tube of the fluid chip is connected to the lower end of one of the plurality of outlets (2112a), and a tube of the pump is connected to the lower end of another outlet (2112a).

[0098] An elastic membrane (2120) is placed between the upper body (2111) and the lower body (2112). The elastic membrane (2120) is attached to the open lower part of the upper body (2111) and seals the receiving space (S).

[0099] A plurality of needles (2130) are provided and are integrally formed in the horizontal part (2111ab) of the dome portion (2111a). The needles (2130) are formed at positions corresponding to the plurality of discharge ports (2112a). When the housing (2110) is pressurized, the plurality of needles (2130) descend together with the dome portion (2111a) and penetrate the elastic membrane (2120), and connect the receiving space (S) and the plurality of discharge ports (2112a) by penetrating the elastic membrane (2120). In a state where the elastic membrane (2120) is cut by the needle (2130), the pressure of another outlet (2112a) connected to the pump increases due to the positive pressure generated from the pump, and the fluid (F) in the receiving space (S) can be supplied to the tube through one of the outlets (2112a) connected to the fluid chip and introduced into the fluid chip.

[0100]

[0101] FIG. 7a is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a fluid chamber according to a third embodiment of the present invention from a top view, FIG. 7b is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a fluid chamber according to a third embodiment of the present invention from a bottom view, FIG. 8a is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a housing according to a third embodiment of the present invention from a top view, FIG. 8b is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a housing according to a third embodiment of the present invention from a bottom view, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid chamber according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Hereinafter, the structure of a fluid chamber (3100) according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 7A to 9. An example of how the fluid chamber (3100) according to the third embodiment of the present invention is applied to a fluid chip assembly according to one embodiment will be described.

[0103] A fluid chamber (3100) according to a third embodiment of the present invention is coupled to a fluid chip of a fluid chip assembly and is a fluid chamber for storing and transporting a plurality of different types of fluids supplied to the fluid chip.

[0104] A fluid chamber (3100) according to a third embodiment of the present invention includes a housing (3110), an elastic membrane (3120), and a plurality of needles (3130).

[0105] The housing (3110) forms the body of the fluid chamber (3100).

[0106] The housing (3110) includes an upper body (3111), a lower body (3112) and at least one bulkhead (3113).

[0107] The upper body (3111) forms a receiving space (S) and receives a fluid in the receiving space (S). The receiving space (S) is divided into a plurality of spaces by partition walls (3113), and different types of fluids (F, F') can be stored in the divided spaces.

[0108] The upper body (3111) includes a dome portion (3111a) and a rim portion (3111b).

[0109] The dome portion (3111a) has a dome shape, forms part of the receiving space (S), and is formed of an elastic material. The dome portion (3111a) formed of an elastic material is pressed by the experimenter's motion and lowers the needle (3130). The dome portion (3111a) includes a curved part (3111aa) and a horizontal part (3111ab).

[0110] A plurality of needles (3130) are integrally provided in the horizontal part (3111ab) of the dome (3111a).

[0111] The rim (3111b) is formed in a cylindrical shape extending along the edge of the dome (3111a) and forms a receiving space (S) together with the dome (3111a). The rim (3111b) forms the remaining portion of the receiving space (S) among the receiving spaces (S).

[0112] The lower body (3112) is connected to the lower part of the upper body (3111) and supports the elastic membrane (3120). The lower part of the lower body (3112) is provided with an outlet (3112a) extending vertically. The outlets (3112a) are provided in multiple numbers, and are formed in a number corresponding to the plurality of needles (3130). In addition, the plurality of outlets (3112a) are respectively arranged at positions corresponding to the plurality of needles (3130) (e.g., coaxially).

[0113] The lower part of a needle (3130) that is lowered by the upper body (3111) and penetrates (and cuts) the elastic membrane (3120) can be inserted into the plurality of outlets (3112a). The lower part of the needle (3120) is inserted into the outlet (3112a), and the fluid contained in the receiving space (S) is discharged through the plurality of outlets (3112a).

[0114] The number of the plurality of outlets (3112a) is formed in a number corresponding to the number of spaces divided by at least one partition wall (3113). In the fluid chamber (3100) according to the third embodiment of the present invention, the number of the plurality of outlets (3112a) is illustrated as four as in FIGS. 8A to 9, but it is obvious that the number of the plurality of outlets (3112a) can be changed depending on conditions such as the number of the plurality of needles (3130) and the number of partition walls (3113).

[0115] Additionally, the plurality of outlets (3112a) are each connected to the plurality of inlets of the fluid chip. The plurality of outlets (3112a) supply different types of fluids to the fluid chip through the inlets.

[0116] The partition wall (3113) divides the receiving space (S) into a plurality of different, separated spaces, and different fluids (F, F') are contained in the divided spaces. The partition wall (3113) is formed in a plate shape extending vertically, and is formed integrally with the upper body (3111) at the folded part (3111aa) and the horizontal part (3111ab) of the upper body. The upper end of the partition wall (3113) is connected to the inner wall of the dome part (3111a), and the lower end thereof extends to the same height as the lower end of the rim part (3111b).

[0117] A plurality of partition walls (3113) are provided and arranged to intersect each other. In the fluid chamber (3100) according to the third embodiment of the present invention, the number of partition walls (3113) is illustrated as two as in FIGS. 8a to 9, but it is obvious that the number of the plurality of partition walls (3113) can be changed depending on conditions such as the number of the plurality of needles (3130) and the plurality of outlets (3112a).

[0118] The two partition walls (3113) are arranged in a manner of intersecting each other, and divide the receiving space (S) into four separate spaces. A plurality of needles (3130) are provided at the center of each of the four spaces divided by the plurality of partition walls (3113). For example, the plurality of partition walls (3113) are arranged in a cross shape.

[0119] A plurality of needles (3130) are provided and are integrally formed in the horizontal part (3111ab) of the dome portion (3111a). The needles (3130) are formed at positions corresponding to spaces divided by a plurality of outlets (3112a) and a plurality of partition walls (3113). When the housing (3110) is pressurized, the plurality of needles (3130) descend together with the dome portion (3111a) and penetrate the elastic membrane (3120), and connect the receiving space (S) and the plurality of outlets (3112a) by penetrating the elastic membrane (3120). Accordingly, different types of fluids are introduced into the plurality of inlets of the fluid chip, each of which is connected to the plurality of outlets (3112a).

[0120]

[0121] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating the structure of a fluid chip module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0122] Hereinafter, the structure of a fluid chip module (1000) according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 4 and FIG. 10.

[0123] The fluid chip module (1000) according to the first embodiment of the present invention may be a fluid chip module that is connected to an aspirator (10) and in which a fluid (F) contained in a fluid chamber (1100) can be supplied to a fluid chip (1200) through negative pressure generated in the aspirator (10).

[0124] A fluid chip module (1000) according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a fluid chamber (1100) and a fluid chip (1200).

[0125] The fluid chamber (1100) is connected to the fluid chip (1200) and controls whether fluid (F) flows into the fluid chip (1200). In the fluid chip module (1000), the fluid chamber (1100) acts as a valve.

[0126] The fluid chip module (1000) according to the first embodiment of the present invention exemplarily describes a case in which the fluid chamber (1100) according to the first embodiment is applied, and a description of the specific structure related thereto is omitted.

[0127] The fluid chip (1200) includes a flow path (1210), an inlet (1220), and an outlet (1230). In addition, the fluid chip (1200) further includes a tube (T) and can be connected to the fluid chamber (1100) through the tube (T). The fluid chip (1200) may not include the tube (T) and may be formed such that the outlet (1112a) of the fluid chamber (1100) is directly coupled to the inlet of the fluid chip (1200). Hereinafter, a case in which the fluid chip (1200) includes the tube (T) will be described as an example.

[0128] The path (1210) is a path through which a fluid moves. The path (1210) is formed by penetrating the interior of the fluid chip (1200) and is formed as a single path (i.e., one path) in the fluid chip (1200).

[0129] An inlet (1220) is formed at one end of the fluid chip (1200) and is connected to the flow path (1210). A tube (T) is connected to the inlet (1220).

[0130] An outlet (1230) is formed at the other end of the fluid chip (1200) and is connected to the flow path (1210). A suction device (10) is connected to the outlet (1230).

[0131] A tube (T) connects a fluid chip (1200) and a fluid chamber (1100). One end of the tube (T) is connected to an inlet (1220) of the fluid chip (1200), and the other end is connected to an outlet (1112a) of the fluid chamber (1100). For example, the tube (T) is formed of a soft synthetic resin material.

[0132] When the dome portion (1111a) formed of an elastic material is pressurized by the experimenter's movement, the pressurized dome portion (1111a) shrinks downward and the needle (1130) cuts the elastic membrane (1120). Due to the negative pressure generated in the suction device (10), the fluid (F) moves from the receiving space to the outlet (1112a) and the tube (T). The fluid (F) that has moved to the tube (T) moves to the inlet (1220) of the fluid chip (1200) and moves inside the fluid chip (1200) along the flow path (1210).

[0133]

[0134] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating the structure of a fluid chip module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0135] Hereinafter, the structure of a fluid chip module (2000) according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 6 and FIG. 11.

[0136] A fluid chip module (2000) according to a second embodiment of the present invention may be a fluid chip module that is connected to a pump (20) and in which a fluid (F) contained in a fluid chamber (2100) can be supplied to a fluid chip (2200) through positive pressure generated by the pump (20).

[0137] A fluid chip module (2000) according to a second embodiment of the present invention includes a fluid chamber (2100) and a fluid chip (2200).

[0138] The fluid chamber (2100) has a plurality of outlets (2112a), one of which is connected to a tube (T) of the fluid chip (2200), and the other outlet (2112a) is connected to a tube (T') of the pump (20). The fluid chamber (2100) functions as a valve that controls whether or not the fluid (F) flows into the fluid chip (2200).

[0139] The fluid chip module (2000) according to the second embodiment of the present invention exemplarily describes a case in which the fluid chamber (2100) according to the second embodiment is applied, and a description of the specific structure related thereto is omitted.

[0140] The fluid chip (2200) includes a euro (2210), an inlet (2220), an outlet (2230), and a tube (T).

[0141] The path (2210) is a path through which a fluid moves. The path (2210) is formed by penetrating the interior of the fluid chip (2200) and is formed as a single path (i.e., one path) in the fluid chip (2200).

[0142] An inlet (2220) is formed at one end of the fluid chip (2200) and is connected to the flow path (2210). A tube (T) is connected to the inlet (2220).

[0143] The outlet (2112a) is formed at the other end of the fluid chip (2200) and is connected to the flow path (2210).

[0144] The tube (T) of the fluid chip (2200) connects the fluid chip (2200) and the fluid chamber (2100). One end of the tube (T) of the fluid chip (2200) is connected to the inlet (2220) of the fluid chip (2200), and the other end is connected to one of the multiple outlets (2112a) of the fluid chamber (2100) (the outlet located on the left in the drawing).

[0145] When the upper body (2111) is pressurized by the experimenter's motion, a plurality of needles (2130) descend and penetrate the elastic membrane (2120). Through the penetrated elastic membrane (2120), the receiving space and a plurality of outlets (2112a) are connected, and by the positive pressure generated by the pump (20), the fluid (F) moves from the receiving space to one of the outlets (2112a) connected to the tube (T) of the fluid chip (2200). The fluid (F) is introduced into the inlet (2220) of the fluid chip (2200) through the tube (T) of the fluid chip (2200), and the introduced fluid (F) moves along the flow path (2210) of the fluid chip (2200).

[0146]

[0147] FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a fluid chip assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the structure of a fluid chip assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0148] Hereinafter, the structure of a fluid chip assembly (3000) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 7a to 9 and FIGS. 12 to 13.

[0149] A fluid chip assembly (3000) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be a fluid chip assembly that is connected to an aspirator (10) and can supply different types of fluids (F, F') contained in a complex fluid chamber (3100) to a fluid chip (3200) through negative pressure generated in the aspirator (10). In addition, a fluid chip assembly (3000) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be a fluid chip assembly that can form a structure in which a plurality of fluid chips (3200) are connected to each other through a single fluid chamber (3300).

[0150] A fluid chip assembly (3000) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a composite fluid chamber (3100), a plurality of fluid chips (3200), and a single fluid chamber (3300).

[0151] A complex fluid chamber (3100) according to one embodiment of the present invention has a plurality of outlets (3112a). The plurality of outlets (3112a) are respectively connected to a plurality of inlets (a plurality of first inlets (3212)) of a fluid chip (a first fluid chip (3210)). The complex fluid chamber (3100) stores different types of fluids (F, F') therein, and the stored different types of fluids (F, F') can be respectively supplied to a plurality of inlets (a plurality of first inlets (3212)) of the fluid chip (a first fluid chip (3210)) through the plurality of outlets (3112a).

[0152] The composite fluid chamber (3100) of the fluid chip assembly (3000) according to one embodiment of the present invention is exemplarily described in the case where the fluid chamber (3100) according to the third embodiment is applied, and a description of the specific structure related thereto is omitted.

[0153] A plurality of fluid chips (3200) are provided and are spaced apart from each other. The plurality of fluid chips (3200) are connected to each other by a single fluid chamber (3300). Hereinafter, referring to FIG. 13, the fluid chip (3200) located on the right side of the drawing among the plurality of fluid chips (3200) is referred to as a first fluid chip (3210), and the fluid chip (3200) located on the left side of the drawing is referred to as a second fluid chip (3220).

[0154] The first fluid chip (3210) has a plurality of first flow paths (3211), a plurality of first inlets (3212) and a first outlet (3213).

[0155] A plurality of first flow paths (3211) are formed so that one end of each of the first flow chips (3210) corresponds one-to-one with a plurality of first inlets (3212). In addition, the plurality of first flow paths (3211) are formed so that the other ends thereof are connected to each other.

[0156] A plurality of first inlets (3212) are formed spaced apart from each other on one side of the first fluid chip (3210). A plurality of outlets (3112a) of a composite fluid chamber (3100) are respectively connected to the plurality of first inlets (3212). Different types of fluids (F, F') are introduced into the plurality of first inlets (3212) through the plurality of outlets (3112a) of the composite fluid chamber (3100) and supplied to the plurality of first flow paths (3211). The other ends of the plurality of first inlets (3212) are connected to the first outlets (3213).

[0157] The first outlet (3213) is formed on the other side of the first fluid chip (3210) and is connected to all of the plurality of first flow paths (3211). One of the outlets (3112a) of the single fluid chamber (3300) is connected to the first outlet (3213).

[0158] The second fluid chip (3220) has a second flow path (3221), a second inlet (3222) and a second outlet (3223).

[0159] The second euro (3221) has one end connected to the second inlet (3222) and the other end connected to the second outlet (3223) in the second fluid chip (3220).

[0160] A second inlet (3222) is formed on one side of the second fluid chip (3220). Another outlet (3312a) of a single fluid chamber (3300) is coupled to the second inlet (3222).

[0161] The second outlet (3223) is formed on the other side of the fluid chip (3200) and is connected to the suction device (10).

[0162] A single fluid chamber (3300) according to one embodiment of the present invention has a plurality of outlets (3312a). One of the plurality of outlets (3312a) of the single fluid chamber (3300) is connected to a first outlet (3213) of a first fluid chip (3210), and the other outlet (3312a) is connected to a second inlet (3222) of a second fluid chip (3220). A single fluid (F) is stored in the single fluid chamber (3300), and the fluid (F) is supplied to the first fluid chip (3210) and the second fluid chip (3220) in separate portions.

[0163] A single fluid chamber (3300) of a fluid chip assembly (3000) according to one embodiment of the present invention is exemplarily described in a case where the fluid chamber (2100) according to the second embodiment is applied, and a description of the specific structure related thereto is omitted.

[0164] When the single fluid chamber (3300) is pressurized by the experimenter's action, the first fluid chip (3210) and the second fluid chip (3220) are connected through the single fluid chamber (3300) that acts as a valve. In addition, when the complex fluid chamber (3100) is pressurized by the experimenter's action, an environment is created in which different fluids (F, F') are supplied to the first fluid chip (3210) through the complex fluid chamber (3100) that acts as a valve. Different types of fluids (F, F') are supplied from the complex fluid chamber (3100) to the first fluid chip (3210) by the negative pressure generated in the suction device (10) connected to the second outlet (3223) of the second fluid chip (3220). Additionally, by the negative pressure generated in the suction device (10), another type of fluid (F'') is supplied from the single fluid chamber (3300) to the first fluid chip (3210) and the second fluid chip (3220). Accordingly, different types of fluids (F, F', F'') can move inside the first fluid chip (3210) and the second fluid chip (3220).

[0165]

[0166] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings, the present invention is not necessarily limited to these embodiments, and various modifications may be implemented without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical spirit of the present invention, but to explain it, and the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrative in all aspects and not restrictive. The protection scope of the present invention should be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical ideas within a scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the rights of the present invention.

[0167]

[0168] [National Research and Development Project Supporting This Invention]

[0169] [Project ID] 1711197700

[0170] [Assignment Number] CP23005M

[0171] [Ministry Name] Ministry of Science and ICT

[0172] [Name of Project Management (Specialist) Institution] Nano Comprehensive Technology Institute

[0173] [Research Project Name] Semiconductor Process-Based Nanomedical Device Development Project

[0174] [Research Project Name] Nano Medical Sensors (NMS) Platform

[0175] [Name of Project Performing Organization] Nano Comprehensive Technology Institute

[0176] Research Period: January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024

[0177]

[0178] [National Research and Development Project Supporting This Invention]

[0179] [Project ID] 1415187243

[0180] [Assignment Number] 20025649

[0181] Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy

[0182] [Name of Project Management (Specialist) Institution] Korea Institute of Industrial Technology Planning and Evaluation

[0183] [Research Project Name] Nano-Convergence Innovation Product Technology Development Project

[0184] [Research Project Title] Development of a Rapid On-Site Microbial Detection Device Based on Nucleic Acid Nanocomposite

[0185] [Name of the project performing organization] H-Gard Co., Ltd.

[0186] Research Period: January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024

[0187]

[0188] [National Research and Development Project Supporting This Invention]

[0189] [Project ID] 1465040716

[0190] [Assignment Number] HG23C1661000023

[0191] [Buddha Name] Many Buddhas

[0192] [Name of Project Management (Specialist) Agency] Korea Health Industry Development Institute

[0193] [Research Project Name] Semiconductor Process-Based Nanomedical Device Development Project

[0194] [Research Project Title] Development of a Digital Diagnostic Device Based on a Nanowell Structure of Sub-500nm for the Field Detection of Three Respiratory Viruses

[0195] [Name of Project Performing Organization] Nano Comprehensive Technology Institute

[0196] Research Period: June 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023

Claims

1. A fluid chamber for storing and transporting fluid supplied to a fluid chip, A housing having a receiving space for receiving a fluid and at least one outlet for discharging the fluid; An elastic membrane disposed inside the housing and covering the inner end of the outlet; At least one needle extending from the inner surface of the housing toward the outlet; A fluid chamber in which, when the housing is pressurized, the needle penetrates the elastic membrane to connect the outlet and the receiving space.

2. In claim 1, The above housing, an upper body having at least a portion of a dome shape; and A fluid chamber comprising a lower body coupled to the lower portion of the upper body and supporting the elastic membrane.

3. In claim 2, The elastic membrane is a fluid chamber attached to the lower part of the upper body and positioned between the upper body and the lower body.

4. In claim 2, The above upper body, A dome portion having a dome shape; A fluid chamber including a rim formed along the edge of the dome portion and having the elastic membrane attached thereto.

5. In claim 2, The above needle is a fluid chamber whose extended length is shorter than the height of the space formed by the upper body.

6. In claim 1, The above needle is a fluid chamber formed integrally with the housing.

7. In claim 1, The above needle is a fluid chamber having a shape whose width decreases in the direction toward the outlet.

8. In claim 1, The above needle is a fluid chamber having a different material from the above housing.

9. In claim 1, The above needle is a fluid chamber, at least part of which is made of metal.

10. In claim 1, The above housing is a fluid chamber, at least part of which is made of synthetic resin material.

11. In claim 1, The above at least one needle is provided in multiples and spaced apart from each other, A fluid chamber in which at least one of the above discharge ports is provided in a plurality and is positioned at a position corresponding to each of the plurality of needles.

12. In claim 1, The housing further includes at least one bulkhead partitioning the receiving space; A fluid chamber in which at least one needle is provided in a number corresponding to the number of spaces partitioned by the partition wall.

13. In claim 12, A fluid chamber in which at least one of the above-mentioned bulkheads is provided in multiple numbers and arranged to intersect each other.

14. In claim 12, A fluid chamber in which at least one of the above outlets is provided in a number corresponding to the number of spaces partitioned by the at least one bulkhead.

15. A fluid chip having at least one fluid-movable channel and an inlet and an outlet communicating with the at least one channel; and A fluid chip module, comprising a fluid chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 14, connected to the inlet and supplying fluid to the flow path.

16. In claim 15, A fluid chip module in which the fluid chip is connected to an aspirator through the outlet and configured to draw fluid into the at least one path from the fluid chamber through negative pressure generated by the aspirator.

17. In claim 15, The above fluid chamber has a plurality of outlets, The above plurality of outlets, one outlet being connected to the pump and the other outlet being connected to the inlet, The fluid chip module is configured such that the fluid is supplied from the fluid chamber to the at least one flow path through the positive pressure generated by the pump.

18. A plurality of fluid chips having at least one fluid-moving channel and an inlet and an outlet communicating with the at least one channel; and A fluid chip assembly comprising at least one single fluid chamber connected to each of the plurality of fluid chips so as to communicate the plurality of fluid chips.

19. In claim 18, wherein at least one single fluid chamber has a plurality of outlets, A fluid chip assembly in which the plurality of outlets are connected to the inlet of one of the plurality of fluid chips, and the other outlet is connected to the outlet of another of the plurality of fluid chips.

20. In claim 18, The above at least one euro is provided in multiples, A fluid chip assembly further comprising at least one composite fluid chamber having a plurality of outlets, wherein the plurality of outlets are each connected to one of the fluid chips so as to supply different types of fluids to one of the fluid chips.

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