Position detection method and position detection device

Abstract

This position detection method for detecting the position of a first liquid flowing through a tube provided so as to be exchangeable includes: a measurement step for measuring the capacitance between the first liquid flowing in the tube and a plurality of electrodes by using the plurality of electrodes that are arranged in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction and configured to measure capacitance; and an output step for outputting a measurement signal corresponding to the capacitance measured in the measurement step.

Description

Position detection method and position detection device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a position detection method for detecting the position of a liquid based on capacitance.

[0002] Conventionally, there are known position detection methods for detecting the position of a liquid based on capacitance. As an example of the position detection method, Patent Document 1 discloses a capacitance sensor that detects a change in capacitance due to a change in a medicinal liquid stored in a storage bag, and a liquid level detection device that detects a change in the liquid level of the medicinal liquid from the change in capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-201272

[0004] However, in the liquid level detection device of Patent Document 1, if the storage bag is tilted, the position of the liquid chemical relative to the capacitance sensor is likely to change, and the position of the liquid chemical cannot be detected with high accuracy.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a position detection method and the like that can detect the position of a liquid with higher accuracy.

[0006] A position detection method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a position detection method for detecting the position of a first liquid flowing through a replaceable tube, and includes a measurement step of measuring the capacitance between the first liquid flowing through the tube and a plurality of electrodes arranged in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction and for measuring capacitance, and an output step of outputting a measurement signal corresponding to the capacitance measured in the measurement step.

[0007] A position detection device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises an exchangeable tube and a plurality of electrodes arranged in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction for measuring capacitance, the plurality of electrodes measuring the capacitance between the liquid flowing in the tube and the plurality of electrodes and outputting a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0008] The position detection method and the like disclosed herein can detect the position of a liquid with higher accuracy.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a liquid supply system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a position detection device of the liquid supply system of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the position detection device of the liquid supply system of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a first operation example of the liquid supply system of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a first explanatory diagram for explaining the first operation example of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a second explanatory diagram for explaining the first operation example of FIG. 4. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a second operation example of the liquid supply system of FIG. 1. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the second operation example of FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a first operation example of the liquid supply system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the first operation example of FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a second operation example of the liquid supply system of FIG. 9. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the second operation example of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a capturing device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV in FIG. 13. Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram showing magnetic flux in the capturing device of Fig. 13. Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a capturing device according to a second embodiment. Fig. 17A is a cross-sectional view showing displacement of a tube in the capturing device of Fig. 16. Fig. 17B is a cross-sectional view showing displacement of a tube in the capturing device of Fig. 16. Fig. 18 is a plan view showing a capturing device according to a third embodiment. Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIX-XIX in Fig. 18.

[0010] (First Disclosure) A position detection method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a position detection method for detecting the position of a first liquid flowing through a replaceable tube, and includes a measurement step of measuring the capacitance between the first liquid flowing through the tube and a plurality of electrodes arranged in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction and for measuring capacitance, and an output step of outputting a measurement signal corresponding to the capacitance measured in the measurement step.

[0011] According to this, by flowing the first liquid through the tube, the capacitance between the first liquid and the tube can be measured, and the position of the first liquid in the tube can be detected by a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance. Furthermore, even if the position detection device is tilted, the position of the first liquid in the tube is unlikely to change, and the position of the first liquid relative to the multiple electrodes is unlikely to change, so the position of the first liquid can be detected with greater accuracy.

[0012] In addition, in a position detection method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first liquid may be supplied to flow into the tube, and in the measurement step, after the first liquid has been supplied, the capacitance may be measured using the plurality of electrodes.

[0013] According to this, when the first liquid flows through the tube, the capacitance between the first liquid and the tube can be measured, and the position of the first liquid in the tube can be detected by a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0014] In addition, in a position detection method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, air may be supplied to flow through the tube in place of the first liquid, and in the measurement step, after the air has been supplied, the capacitance may be measured using the plurality of electrodes.

[0015] With this, when air flows through the tube, the positions of the first liquid and the air in the tube can be detected by a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0016] In addition, in a position detection method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a second liquid having a dielectric constant different from that of the first liquid is supplied to flow through the tube in place of the first liquid, and in the measurement step, after the second liquid is supplied, the capacitance may be measured using the plurality of electrodes.

[0017] With this, when the second liquid flows through the tube, the positions of the first liquid and the second liquid in the tube can be detected by a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0018] In addition, in a position detection method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a container containing air may be supplied so that the container flows into the tube following the first liquid, and in the measurement step, after the container is supplied, the capacitance may be measured using the plurality of electrodes.

[0019] According to this, when the contained object flows in the tube, the position of the first liquid and the contained object in the tube can be detected by a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0020] Furthermore, in a position detection method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the tube may have a first flow path section into which the first liquid flows, a branch section connected to the first flow path section, a second flow path section branching from the first flow path section via the branch section, and a third flow path section branching from the first flow path section via the branch section, and the second liquid, having a dielectric constant different from that of the first liquid, is supplied to flow into the tube following the container, and the measurement step may include a reach determination step of measuring the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes after the second liquid is supplied and determining whether or not the container has reached a predetermined position based on the measurement signal output in the output step, and a switching step of causing the first liquid to flow from the first flow path section to the second flow path section if it is determined in the reach determination step that the container has not reached the predetermined position, and switching the container and the second liquid to flow from the first flow path section to the third flow path section if it is determined in the reach determination step that the container has reached the predetermined position.

[0021] This allows the first liquid to flow through the second flow path portion, and the second liquid to flow through the third flow path portion.

[0022] Furthermore, the position detection method according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a calculation step of calculating the velocity of the first liquid flowing through the tube based on the measurement signal output in the output step.

[0023] This allows the velocity of the first liquid flowing through the tube to be calculated.

[0024] The position detection method according to the aspect of the present disclosure may also include a display step of displaying a measurement result of the capacitance based on the measurement signal output in the output step.

[0025] This allows the measurement results of the measured capacitance to be displayed.

[0026] Furthermore, a position detection method according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include an abnormality determination step of determining whether or not an abnormality has occurred based on the measurement signal output in the output step, and a notification step of notifying the occurrence of the abnormality if it is determined in the abnormality determination step that the abnormality has occurred.

[0027] This allows you to be notified that an abnormality has occurred.

[0028] In addition, a position detection device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a replaceable tube and a plurality of electrodes arranged in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction for measuring capacitance, the plurality of electrodes measuring the capacitance between the liquid flowing in the tube and the plurality of electrodes and outputting a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0029] This provides the same effects as the above-described position detection method.

[0030] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0031] The embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, component placement and connection configurations, steps, and step order shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Furthermore, among the components in the following embodiments, components that are not recited in independent claims are described as optional components. Furthermore, each drawing is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily an exact illustration. Furthermore, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals in each drawing.

[0032] First Embodiment Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a liquid supply system 10 according to a first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing a position detection device 30 of the liquid supply system 10 of Fig. 1. The liquid supply system 10 will be described with reference to Figs. 1 and 2.

[0033] The liquid supply system 10 is a system for supplying a first liquid 1 (see FIG. 5 etc.) etc. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the liquid supply system 10 includes a liquid supply device 20, a position detection device 30, a valve 40, and a tube 50.

[0034] The liquid supply device 20 supplies the first liquid 1 etc. The liquid supply device 20 includes a pump 21, a pump 22, a pump 23, a valve 24, a valve 25, an injector 26, and a valve 27.

[0035] The pump 21 supplies the first liquid 1. For example, the first liquid 1 is stored in a tank (not shown) or the like, and the pump 21 supplies the first liquid 1 by sucking the first liquid 1 stored in the tank and discharging the sucked first liquid 1. For example, the first liquid 1 is water, ethanol, phosphate buffered saline, a solution, or the like.

[0036] The pump 22 supplies the air 3 (see FIG. 6, etc.). For example, the pump 22 supplies the air 3 by sucking the air 3 and discharging the sucked air 3.

[0037] The pump 23 supplies the second liquid 2 (see FIG. 8 , etc.). For example, the second liquid 2 is stored in a tank (not shown) or the like, and the pump 23 supplies the second liquid 2 by sucking the second liquid 2 stored in the tank and discharging the sucked second liquid 2. The second liquid 2 has a different dielectric constant from the first liquid 1. Furthermore, the second liquid 2 is a liquid that is immiscible with the first liquid 1. For example, the second liquid 2 is water, ethanol, phosphate buffered saline, a solution, or the like.

[0038] The valve 24 can be switched between a state in which it does not allow the air 3 to pass but allows the first liquid 1 to pass, a state in which it does not allow the first liquid 1 to pass but allows the air 3 to pass, and a state in which it does not allow the first liquid 1 to pass but allows the air 3 to pass. For example, the valve 24 is a three-way valve.

[0039] Valve 25 can be switched between a state in which it does not allow second liquid 2 to pass but allows first liquid 1 or air 3 that has passed through valve 24 to pass, a state in which it does not allow first liquid 1 or air 3 that has passed through valve 24 to pass but allows second liquid 2 to pass, and a state in which it does not allow second liquid 2 to pass but does not allow first liquid 1 or air 3 that has passed through valve 24 to pass. For example, valve 24 is a three-way valve.

[0040] The injector 26 injects the first liquid 1 , the second liquid 2 , or the air 3 that has passed through the valve 25 .

[0041] Valve 27 can be switched between a state in which it does not pass through container 4 containing air but passes first liquid 1, second liquid 2, or air 3 injected by injector 26, a state in which it does not pass through first liquid 1, second liquid 2, or air 3 injected by injector 26 but passes container 4, and a state in which it does not pass through container 4 but does not pass first liquid 1, second liquid 2, or air 3 injected by injector 26. For example, valve 27 is a three-way valve.

[0042] 1 and 2 , the position detection device 30 has a tube 31 and a touch panel 32. The position detection device 30 is a device for detecting the positions of the first liquid 1, the second liquid 2, the air 3, and the container 4 in the tube 31.

[0043] The tube 31 is replaceably provided on the touch panel 32 and is a tube for flowing the first liquid 1, the second liquid 2, the air 3, and the container 4. For example, the tube 31 is made of silicon or the like. The tube 31 has a first flow path portion 31 a, a second flow path portion 31 b, a third flow path portion 31 c, and a branch portion 31 d.

[0044] The first liquid 1, the second liquid 2, the air 3, or the container 4 that has passed through the valve 27 flows into the first flow path portion 31a. The branch portion 31d is connected to the first flow path portion 31a. In this embodiment, the branch portion 31d is configured as a T-joint. The second flow path portion 31b branches off from the first flow path portion 31a via the branch portion 31d. The third flow path portion 31c branches off from the first flow path portion 31a via the branch portion 31d. The first flow path portion 31a, the second flow path portion 31b, the third flow path portion 31c, and the branch portion 31d may be integrally formed.

[0045] The touch panel 32 is a capacitance-type touch panel and is a capacitance sensor that measures capacitance at any position on the panel. The touch panel 32 has multiple electrodes 32a and 32b. A tube 31 is replaceably mounted on the touch panel 32. Here, "replaceable" means that an existing tube can be removed and replaced with another, for example, a used tube can be replaced with a new one. "Replaceable tubes" include, for example, tubes in the capture device of the second disclosure described below and tubes included in consumable kits for commercially available magnetic bead processing devices. The touch panel 32 is disposed, for example, in a location where a replaceable tube is placed.

[0046] The multiple electrodes 32a, 32b are arranged side by side in a first direction (X-axis direction in FIG. 1, etc.) and a second direction (Y-axis direction in FIG. 1, etc.) intersecting the first direction. In this embodiment, the first direction and the second direction are orthogonal to each other. The multiple electrodes 32a are arranged side by side in the first direction and the second direction. Also, the multiple electrodes 32b are arranged side by side in the first direction and the second direction. Specifically, the multiple electrodes 32a include a row in which multiple electrodes 32a are arranged side by side in the first direction, and this row is arranged side by side in the second direction. Also, the multiple electrodes 32b include a row in which multiple electrodes 32b are arranged side by side in the second direction, and this row is arranged side by side in the first direction.

[0047] The multiple electrodes 32a, 32b are used to measure capacitance. The multiple electrodes 32a, 32b are arranged at positions where the capacitance between the first liquid 1 flowing in the tube 31 and the multiple electrodes 32a, 32b can be measured. The multiple electrodes 32a, 32b can also measure the capacitance between the second liquid 2 flowing in the tube 31. The multiple electrodes 32a, 32b face the tube 31 in a third direction (the Z-axis direction in FIG. 1 , etc.) that is perpendicular to the first direction and perpendicular to the second direction. The touch panel 32 may or may not be in contact with the tube 31, as long as it is arranged so that the capacitance between the first liquid 1 flowing in the tube 31 and the capacitance between the second liquid 2 flowing in the tube 31 can be measured using the multiple electrodes 32a, 32b.

[0048] The electrodes 32a, 32b output signals corresponding to the capacitance measured using the electrodes 32a, 32b. Specifically, each of the electrodes 32a, 32b outputs a measurement signal corresponding to the magnitude of the capacitance measured using that electrode. For example, the greater the magnitude of the capacitance measured using that electrode, the stronger the measurement signal output from each of the electrodes 32a, 32b. For example, when the touch panel 32 is in an on state, the electrodes 32a, 32b constantly measure the capacitance and output a measurement signal.

[0049] The valve 40 can be switched between a state in which it is connected to the second flow path portion 31 b and communicates with the second flow path portion 31 b, and a state in which it is connected to the third flow path portion 31 c and communicates with the third flow path portion 31 c. For example, the valve 40 is a three-way valve.

[0050] The tube 50 is a tube for allowing the first liquid 1, the second liquid 2, the air 3, or the container 4 to flow after passing through the valve 40. The first liquid 1, the second liquid 2, the air 3, or the container 4 discharged from the tube 50 is supplied to a predetermined destination.

[0051] Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the position detection device 30 of the liquid supply system 10 of Fig. 1. The functional configuration of the position detection device 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 3.

[0052] 3, the position detection device 30 has a display unit 33, an abnormality determination unit 34, a notification unit 35, an arrival determination unit 36, a switching unit 37, and a calculation unit 38. For example, the display unit 33 is configured by a display or the like, the abnormality determination unit 34, the arrival determination unit 36, the switching unit 37, and the calculation unit 38 are configured by a processor or the like, and the notification unit 35 is configured by a lamp, a speaker, or the like.

[0053] The display unit 33 displays the capacitance measurement results based on the measurement signals output by the electrodes 32 a and 32 b. For example, the measurement results indicate the intensities of the measurement signals output by the electrodes 32 a and 32 b. For example, the display unit 33 displays the measurement results in real time.

[0054] The abnormality determination unit 34 determines whether an abnormality has occurred based on the measurement signals output by the multiple electrodes 32 a, 32 b. For example, the abnormality determination unit 34 determines whether the area in which the first liquid 1 and the second liquid 2 are located is normal based on the measurement signals, and determines that an abnormality has occurred if the area in which the first liquid 1 and the second liquid 2 are located is not normal. For example, if the first liquid 1 or the second liquid 2 is leaking from the tube 31, the first liquid 1 or the second liquid 2 may be located in places other than the tube 31. In this case, the area in which the first liquid 1 or the second liquid 2 is located will no longer be normal, and the abnormality determination unit 34 determines that an abnormality has occurred.

[0055] The notification unit 35 notifies the user that an abnormality has occurred when the abnormality determination unit 34 determines that an abnormality has occurred. For example, the notification unit 35 notifies the user that an abnormality has occurred by emitting light and / or sound.

[0056] The arrival determination unit 36 ​​determines whether the container 4 has reached a predetermined position based on the measurement signals output by the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b. For example, information indicating the predetermined position is stored in a memory (not shown) or the like included in the position detection device 30. The predetermined position is, for example, a position slightly closer to the first flow path portion 31 a than the branch portion 31 d.

[0057] When the arrival determination unit 36 ​​determines that the container 4 has not reached the predetermined position, the switching unit 37 causes the first liquid 1 to flow from the first flow path portion 31 a to the second flow path portion 31 b. Furthermore, when the arrival determination unit 36 ​​determines that the container 4 has reached the predetermined position, the switching unit 37 switches the container 4 and the second liquid 2 to flow from the first flow path portion 31 a to the third flow path portion 31 c. The switching unit 37 switches the position of the valve 40 to cause the container 4 and the second liquid 2 to flow from the first flow path portion 31 a to the third flow path portion 31 c. For example, the switching unit 37 switches the state in which the valve 40 is connected to the second flow path portion 31b and communicates with the second flow path portion 31b, using an actuator (not shown) or the like, from a state in which the valve 40 is connected to the third flow path portion 31c and communicates with the third flow path portion 31c, thereby switching the container 4 and the second liquid 2 to flow from the first flow path portion 31a to the third flow path portion 31c.

[0058] The calculation unit 38 calculates the velocity of the container 4 flowing through the tube 31 based on the measurement signals output by the multiple electrodes 32 a, 32 b. For example, the calculation unit 38 identifies a first position of the container 4 at a first time from the measurement signal measured at the first time, identifies a second position of the container 4 at a second time from the measurement signal measured at a second time different from the first time, and calculates the velocity of the container 4 by dividing the difference between the first position and the second position by the difference between the first time and the second time. Because the container 4 is supplied to flow through the tube 31 following the first liquid 1, the calculation unit 38 can identify the position of the container 4 based on the difference between the magnitude of the capacitance between the first liquid 1 and the multiple electrodes 32 a, 32 b and the magnitude of the capacitance between the container 4 and the multiple electrodes 32 a, 32 b. The calculation unit 38 also calculates the displacement of the container 4 based on the measurement signals output by the multiple electrodes 32 a, 32 b, and calculates the flow velocity of the first liquid 1 based on the displacement.

[0059] Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing a first operation example of the liquid supply system 10 of Fig. 1. Fig. 5 is a first explanatory diagram for explaining the first operation example of Fig. 4. Fig. 6 is a second explanatory diagram for explaining the first operation example of Fig. 4. The first operation example of the liquid supply system 10 will be described with reference to Figs. 4 to 6.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 4, the liquid supply device 20 supplies the first liquid 1 (step S1). For example, when a user performs a predetermined operation, the pump 21 is driven to supply the first liquid 1. This allows the first liquid 1 to flow through the tube 31 as shown in Fig. 5(b) from a state in which the first liquid 1 is not flowing through the tube 31 as shown in Fig. 5(a).

[0061] The plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b measure the capacitance and output a measurement signal (step S2). In this way, the position detection device 30 measures the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b after the first liquid 1 is supplied. Note that measuring the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b after the first liquid 1 is supplied includes measuring the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b continuously from before the first liquid 1 is supplied until after the first liquid 1 is supplied.

[0062] The display unit 33 displays the measurement result (step S3), which allows the user to confirm whether the first liquid 1 is flowing through the tube 31 or not.

[0063] The valve 40 accepts a switching operation for the valve 40 (step S4). For example, if the user can confirm from the displayed measurement results that the first liquid 1 is flowing through the first flow path portion 31a and the second flow path portion 31b, the user switches the valve 40. This allows the first liquid 1 to flow through the third flow path portion 31c, as shown in FIG. 5C.

[0064] The plurality of electrodes 32a and 32b measure the capacitance and output a measurement signal (step S5).

[0065] The display unit 33 displays the measurement result (step S6), which allows the user to confirm whether the first liquid 1 is flowing through the third flow path unit 31c.

[0066] Valve 40 accepts a switching operation for valve 40, and valve 24 accepts a switching operation for valve 24 (step S7). For example, if the user can confirm from the displayed measurement result that first liquid 1 is flowing through third flow path portion 31c, he or she switches valve 40 and valve 24.

[0067] The liquid supply device 20 supplies the air 3 (step S8). In step S7, the valves 40 and 24 are switched, and the air 3 is supplied by the pump 22. This allows the air 3 to flow through the first flow path portion 31a and the second flow path portion 31b, as shown in FIG. 6D.

[0068] The plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b measure the capacitance and output a measurement signal (step S9). In this way, the position detection device 30 measures the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b after the air 3 is supplied. Note that measuring the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b after the air 3 is supplied includes measuring the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b continuously from before the air 3 is supplied until after the air 3 is supplied.

[0069] The display unit 33 displays the measurement result (step S10), which allows the user to check whether or not the air 3 is flowing through the first flow path portion 31a and the second flow path portion 31b.

[0070] The valve 40 accepts a switching operation for the valve 40 (step S11). For example, if the user can confirm from the displayed measurement result that the air 3 is flowing through the first flow path portion 31a and the second flow path portion 31b, the user switches the valve 40. This allows the air 3 to flow through the third flow path portion 31c, as shown in (e) of FIG.

[0071] The plurality of electrodes 32a and 32b measure the capacitance and output a measurement signal (step S12).

[0072] The display unit 33 displays the measurement result (step S13), which allows the user to confirm whether or not the air 3 is flowing through the third flow path unit 31c.

[0073] The abnormality determination unit 34 determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred based on the measurement signal. For example, after step S1, if the first liquid 1 leaks from the tube 31 and spreads over the touch panel 32 as shown in (g) of Fig. 5, the abnormality determination unit 34 determines that an abnormality has occurred based on the measurement signal because the area where the first liquid 1 is located is not normal. The notification unit 35 notifies the user that an abnormality has occurred.

[0074] Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing a second operation example of the liquid supply system 10 of Fig. 1. Fig. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the second operation example of Fig. 7. The second operation example of the liquid supply system 10 will be described with reference to Figs. 7 and 8.

[0075] 7, the liquid supply device 20 supplies the second liquid 2 (step S21). For example, as shown in Fig. 8(a), while the first liquid 1 is flowing through the tube 31, the user switches the valve 25, causing the pump 23 to supply the second liquid 2.

[0076] The liquid supply device 20 supplies the container 4 (step S22). For example, the user switches the valve 27 so that the container 4 flows after the first liquid 1, and the second liquid 2 flows after the container 4. This causes the container 4 to be supplied through the valve 27.

[0077] The plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b measure the capacitance and output a measurement signal (step S23). In this way, the position detection device 30 measures the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b after the second liquid 2 and the container 4 have been supplied. Note that measuring the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b after the second liquid 2 and the container 4 have been supplied includes measuring the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b continuously from before the second liquid 2 and the container 4 are supplied until after the second liquid 2 and the container 4 have been supplied.

[0078] The arrival determination unit 36 ​​determines whether the container 4 is located at a predetermined position (step S24).

[0079] If the arrival determination unit 36 ​​determines that the container 4 is not located at the predetermined position (No in step S24), it again determines whether the container 4 is located at the predetermined position (step S24).

[0080] If the arrival determination unit 36 ​​determines that the container 4 is located at the predetermined position (Yes in step S24), the switching unit 37 switches the valve 40 (step S25).

[0081] For example, as shown in Fig. 8(b), when the container 4 is not in a predetermined position, the valve 40 is not yet switched, and the first liquid 1 flows into the second flow path portion 31b. When the container 4 is in a predetermined position, the valve 40 is switched, and the container 4 and the second liquid 2 flow into the third flow path portion 31c, as shown in Fig. 8(c).

[0082] The position detection method of this embodiment is a position detection method for detecting the position of a first liquid 1 flowing through a replaceable tube 31, and includes a measurement step (step S2, etc.) for measuring the capacitance between the first liquid 1 flowing through the tube 31 and the plurality of electrodes 32a, 32b, which are arranged in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction and are used to measure capacitance, and an output step (step S2, etc.) for outputting a measurement signal corresponding to the capacitance measured in the measurement step.

[0083] According to this, the capacitance between the first liquid 1 and the tube 31 can be measured by flowing the first liquid 1 through the tube 31, and the position of the first liquid 1 in the tube 31 can be detected by a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance. Furthermore, even if the position detection device 30 is tilted, the position of the first liquid 1 in the tube 31 is unlikely to change, and the position of the first liquid 1 relative to the multiple electrodes 32 a, 32 b is unlikely to change, so the position of the first liquid 1 can be detected with greater accuracy.

[0084] In addition, in the position detection method according to this embodiment, the first liquid 1 is supplied to flow into the tube 31 (step S1), and in the measurement step, after the first liquid 1 is supplied, the capacitance is measured using a plurality of electrodes 32a, 32b (step S2).

[0085] According to this, when the first liquid 1 flows through the tube 31, the capacitance between the first liquid 1 and the tube 31 can be measured, and the position of the first liquid 1 in the tube 31 can be detected by a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0086] In addition, in the position detection method according to this embodiment, air 3 is supplied to flow through the tube 31 in place of the first liquid 1 (step S8), and in the measurement step, after the air 3 is supplied, the capacitance is measured using the plurality of electrodes 32a, 32b (step S9).

[0087] According to this, when air 3 flows through the tube 31, the positions of the first liquid 1 and the air 3 in the tube 31 can be detected by a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0088] In addition, in the position detection method according to this embodiment, the container 4 containing air is supplied to flow into the tube 31 following the first liquid 1 (step S22), and in the measurement step, after the container 4 is supplied, the capacitance is measured using the plurality of electrodes 32a, 32b (step S23).

[0089] According to this, when the container 4 flows through the tube 31, the positions of the first liquid 1 and the container 4 in the tube 31 can be detected by a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0090] In the position detection method according to this embodiment, the tube 31 has a first flow path portion 31a into which the first liquid 1 flows, a branch portion 31d connected to the first flow path portion 31a, a second flow path portion 31b branching from the first flow path portion 31a via the branch portion 31d, and a third flow path portion 31c branching from the first flow path portion 31a via the branch portion 31d. In order to cause the second liquid 2, which has a dielectric constant different from that of the first liquid 1, to flow through the container 4 and then through the tube 31, the second liquid 2 is supplied (step S21). In the measurement step, after the second liquid 2 is supplied, the capacitance is measured using the plurality of electrodes 32a, 32b (step S22). 3), an arrival determination step (step S24) of determining whether or not the container 4 has reached a predetermined position based on the measurement signal output in the output step, and a switching step (step S25) of switching the flow of the first liquid 1 from the first flow path portion 31a to the second flow path portion 31b if it is determined in the arrival determination step that the container 4 has not reached the predetermined position (No in step S24), and switching the flow of the container 4 and the second liquid 2 from the first flow path portion 31a to the third flow path portion 31c if it is determined in the arrival determination step that the container 4 has reached the predetermined position (Yes in step S24).

[0091] This allows the first liquid 1 to flow through the second flow path portion 31b, and the second liquid 2 to flow through the third flow path portion 31c.

[0092] The position detection method according to the present embodiment also includes a display step (step S3, etc.) of displaying the capacitance measurement result based on the measurement signal output in the output step.

[0093] This allows the measurement results of the measured capacitance to be displayed.

[0094] In addition, the position detection method according to this embodiment includes an abnormality determination step for determining whether or not an abnormality has occurred based on the measurement signal output in the output step, and a notification step for notifying the occurrence of an abnormality if it is determined in the abnormality determination step that an abnormality has occurred.

[0095] This allows you to be notified that an abnormality has occurred.

[0096] In addition, the position detection device 30 of this embodiment includes a replaceable tube 31 and a plurality of electrodes 32a, 32b arranged in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction and for measuring capacitance, and the plurality of electrodes 32a, 32b measure the capacitance between the first liquid 1 flowing in the tube 31 and the plurality of electrodes 32a, 32b, and output a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0097] This provides the same effects as the above-described position detection method.

[0098] Second Embodiment Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing a first operation example of a liquid supply system according to a second embodiment. Fig. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the first operation example of Fig. 9. The first operation example of the liquid supply system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 9 and 10.

[0099] 10 , the liquid supply system according to this embodiment differs from liquid supply system 10 mainly in that it includes a position detection device 130 that is different from position detection device 30. Position detection device 130 differs from position detection device 30 mainly in that it includes a tube 131 instead of tube 31.

[0100] 9, the liquid supply device 20 supplies the container 4 (step S31). For example, as shown in (a) of FIG. 10, when the first liquid 1 is flowing through the tube 131, the user switches the valve 27, and the container 4 is supplied through the valve 27.

[0101] The electrodes 32 a, 32 b measure the capacitance and output a measurement signal (step S32). In this way, the position detection device 30 measures the capacitance using the electrodes 32 a, 32 b after the container 4 is supplied. Note that measuring the capacitance using the electrodes 32 a, 32 b after the container 4 is supplied includes measuring the capacitance using the electrodes 32 a, 32 b continuously from before the container 4 is supplied until after the container 4 is supplied.

[0102] The calculation unit 38 calculates the velocity of the first liquid 1 (step S33). For example, the calculation unit 38 calculates the velocity of the container 4 based on the distance from the position shown in FIG. 10(b) to the position shown in FIG. 10(c) and the time required for the container 4 to move from the position shown in FIG. 10(b) to the position shown in FIG. 10(c). Furthermore, for example, if the container 4 moves 10 cm in 5 seconds and the inner diameter of the tube 131 is 1.6 mm, 10 cm corresponds to 200 μL. Therefore, it can be seen that the flow rate of the first liquid 1 is 200 μL / 5 seconds = 2.4 mL / min (2,400 μL / 60 seconds). In this way, the calculation unit 38 calculates the flow rate of the first liquid 1 based on the displacement of the container 4.

[0103] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing a second operation example of the liquid supply system of Fig. 9. Fig. 12 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the second operation example of Fig. 11. The second operation example of the liquid supply system of Fig. 9 will be described with reference to Figs. 11 and 12.

[0104] 11 , the liquid supply device 20 supplies the second liquid 2 (step S41). For example, as shown in (a) of Fig. 12 , while the first liquid 1 is flowing through the tube 131, the user switches the valve 25, causing the pump 23 to supply the second liquid 2.

[0105] The plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b measure the capacitance and output a measurement signal (step S42). In this way, the position detection device 30 measures the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b after the second liquid 2 has been supplied. Note that measuring the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b after the second liquid 2 has been supplied includes measuring the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes 32 a, 32 b continuously from before the second liquid 2 is supplied until after the second liquid 2 has been supplied.

[0106] The display unit 33 displays the measurement results (step S43), allowing the user to confirm whether or not the second liquid 2 is flowing through the tube 131. For example, because the display unit 33 displays the measurement results in real time, the user can confirm by observing the measurement results that the second liquid 2 has flowed to the position shown in Fig. 12(b) and the position shown in Fig. 12(c), etc.

[0107] In the position detection method according to this embodiment, the second liquid 2, which has a different dielectric constant from the first liquid 1, is supplied to the tube 131 in place of the first liquid 1 (step S41), and in the measurement step, after the second liquid 2 is supplied, the capacitance is measured using the plurality of electrodes 32a, 32b (step S42).

[0108] According to this, when the second liquid 2 flows through the tube 131, the positions of the first liquid 1 and the second liquid 2 in the tube 131 can be detected by a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0109] The position detection method according to this embodiment also includes a calculation step (step S33) of calculating the velocity of the first liquid 1 flowing through the tube 131 based on the measurement signal output in the output step.

[0110] This allows the speed of the first liquid 1 flowing through the tube 131 to be calculated.

[0111] (Other Embodiments, etc.) While the position detection method, etc. according to one or more aspects have been described above based on the embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. As long as the modifications do not deviate from the spirit of the present disclosure, modifications that would occur to those skilled in the art to the present embodiments may also be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0112] (Additional Note) The above description of the embodiments and the like discloses the following techniques.

[0113] (Technology 1) A position detection method for detecting the position of a first liquid flowing through a replaceable tube, comprising: a measurement step for measuring the capacitance between the first liquid flowing through the tube and a plurality of electrodes, the plurality of electrodes being arranged in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, and for measuring capacitance; and an output step for outputting a measurement signal corresponding to the capacitance measured in the measurement step.

[0114] (Technology 2) The position detection method according to Technology 1, wherein the first liquid is supplied to flow into the tube, and in the measuring step, after the first liquid is supplied, the capacitance is measured using the plurality of electrodes.

[0115] (Technology 3) The position detection method according to Technology 2, wherein air is supplied to flow through the tube in place of the first liquid, and in the measuring step, after the air is supplied, the capacitance is measured using the plurality of electrodes.

[0116] (Technology 4) A position detection method according to Technology 2, wherein a second liquid having a different dielectric constant from that of the first liquid is supplied to flow through the tube in place of the first liquid, and in the measurement step, after the second liquid has been supplied, the capacitance is measured using the plurality of electrodes.

[0117] (Technology 5) The position detection method according to Technology 2, wherein a container containing air is supplied so that the container flows into the tube following the first liquid, and in the measuring step, after the container is supplied, the capacitance is measured using the plurality of electrodes.

[0118] (Technology 6) The tube has a first flow path section into which the first liquid flows, a branch section connected to the first flow path section, a second flow path section branching from the first flow path section via the branch section, and a third flow path section branching from the first flow path section via the branch section, wherein a second liquid having a dielectric constant different from that of the first liquid is supplied to cause the second liquid to flow into the tube following the container, and the position detection method according to Technology 5 further comprises: a reach determination step of measuring the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes after the second liquid is supplied, and determining whether or not the container has reached a predetermined position based on the measurement signal output in the output step; and a switching step of causing the first liquid to flow from the first flow path section to the second flow path section when it is determined in the reach determination step that the container has not reached the predetermined position, and switching the flow of the container and the second liquid from the first flow path section to the third flow path section when it is determined in the reach determination step that the container has reached the predetermined position.

[0119] (Technology 7) The position detection method according to Technology 5 or 6, further comprising a calculation step of calculating a velocity of the first liquid flowing through the tube based on the measurement signal output in the output step.

[0120] (Technology 8) The position detection method according to any one of Technologies 1 to 7, further comprising a display step of displaying a measurement result of the capacitance based on the measurement signal output in the output step.

[0121] (Technology 9) A position detection method according to any one of technologies 1 to 8, comprising: an abnormality determination step of determining whether or not an abnormality has occurred based on the measurement signal output in the output step; and a notification step of notifying the occurrence of the abnormality when it is determined in the abnormality determination step that the abnormality has occurred.

[0122] (Technology 10) A position detection device comprising: a replaceable tube; and a plurality of electrodes arranged side by side in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, for measuring capacitance, wherein the plurality of electrodes measure the capacitance between a liquid flowing in the tube and the plurality of electrodes, and output a measurement signal corresponding to the measured capacitance.

[0123] (Second Disclosure) The present disclosure relates to a capture device that captures magnetic particles bound to biological materials by magnetic force.

[0124] Conventionally, trapping devices that use magnetic force to trap magnetic particles bound to biological materials have been known. As an example of a trapping device, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2009-279586 discloses a magnetic device equipped with a chamber having multiple grooves and multiple magnets. These magnets generate a magnetic field that traps blood components with microspheres attached in the grooves, while the remaining blood passes through the grooves and is sent out from the outlet of the chamber.

[0125] The strength of the magnetic force received from the magnet varies depending on the position relative to the magnet, but the magnetic device of JP 2009-279586 A does not take into consideration placing the groove in a position where the magnetic force received from the magnet is greater, and therefore blood components cannot be captured efficiently.

[0126] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a capture device that can more efficiently capture magnetic particles bound to biological materials by the magnetic force of a magnet.

[0127] A capture device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a magnet extending in a first direction and a tube for flowing a liquid containing magnetic particles bound to biological material, wherein the magnet has a first edge portion extending in the first direction and the tube has a first extension portion extending along the first edge portion.

[0128] The capturing device of the present disclosure can capture magnetic particles bound to biological materials more efficiently by using the magnetic force of the magnet.

[0129] A capture device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a magnet extending in a first direction and a tube for flowing a liquid containing magnetic particles bound to biological material, wherein the magnet has a first edge portion extending in the first direction and the tube has a first extension portion extending along the first edge portion.

[0130] According to this, the magnetic force generated by the magnet is relatively strong near the first edge portion, so when a liquid containing magnetic particles is flowed through the first extension portion, the magnetic particles can be captured by the relatively strong magnetic force, thereby enabling more efficient capture of the magnetic particles.

[0131] Furthermore, in a capturing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the magnet may be magnetized in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the first edge portion may be one of a pair of edge portions arranged to sandwich an end face on one side of the magnet in the second direction.

[0132] This makes it possible to prevent the magnetic particles from being captured in a concentrated manner in the first direction, thereby enabling the magnetic particles to be captured more efficiently.

[0133] In addition, in the capturing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first extension portion may be located on one side of the first edge portion in the second direction.

[0134] This allows the magnetic particles to be captured with a larger magnetic force, thereby enabling the magnetic particles to be captured more efficiently.

[0135] Furthermore, a capturing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a yoke having a base located on the other side of the magnet in the second direction, a first opposing portion located on one side of the magnet in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and perpendicular to the second direction, facing the magnet across a first air gap, and connected to an end of one side of the base in the third direction, and a second opposing portion located on the other side of the magnet in the third direction, facing the magnet across a second air gap, and connected to an end of the other side of the base in the third direction, and the first extension portion may be located on one side of the first air gap in the second direction.

[0136] This allows the magnetic particles to be captured with a larger magnetic force, thereby enabling the magnetic particles to be captured more efficiently.

[0137] Furthermore, in a capture device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the tube may have a second extension portion extending along the second edge portion, which is the other of the pair of edge portions, and a communication portion connected to one end of the first extension portion in the first direction and one end of the second extension portion in the first direction, thereby communicating the first extension portion with the second extension portion, and the second extension portion may be located on one side of the second edge portion and the second air gap in the second direction.

[0138] According to this, the magnetic particles can be captured more efficiently also in the second extension portion, and therefore the magnetic particles can be captured even more efficiently.

[0139] Furthermore, a capture device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a first moving mechanism that is capable of moving one of the magnet and the tube away from the other, and that is capable of moving the one that has been moved away from the other closer to the other.

[0140] According to this, by moving one of the magnet and the tube away from the other, magnetic particles that have been attracted to the inner surface of the tube and captured by magnetic force can be separated from the inner surface of the tube. Furthermore, by moving one of the magnet and the tube away from the other toward the other, the magnetic particles that have been separated from the inner surface of the tube can be attracted to the inner surface of the tube again and captured. Therefore, after the magnetic particles are separated from the inner surface of the tube and washed, they can be attracted to the inner surface of the tube again and captured.

[0141] In addition, a capture device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a second moving mechanism capable of moving the magnet relative to the tube along the axial direction of the tube, or moving the tube relative to the magnet along the first edge portion.

[0142] This allows magnetic particles to be collected by moving the magnet along the axial direction of the tube relative to the tube, or by moving the tube along the first edge portion relative to the magnet, thereby allowing magnetic particles to be captured more efficiently.

[0143] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0144] The embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, component placement and connection configurations, steps, and step order shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Furthermore, among the components in the following embodiments, components that are not recited in independent claims are described as optional components. Furthermore, each drawing is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily an exact illustration. Furthermore, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals in each drawing.

[0145] (First embodiment) Fig. 13 is a plan view showing a capturing device A10 according to a first embodiment. In Fig. 13, the second support member A42 is omitted from the illustration. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV in Fig. 13. Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram showing magnetic flux in the capturing device A10 of Fig. 13. The capturing device A10 will be described with reference to Figs. 13 to 15.

[0146] As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the capture device A10 is a device that uses magnetic force to capture magnetic particles A1 bound to biological materials. For example, the magnetic particles A1 are magnetic beads made of a metal such as iron, nickel, or cobalt. The magnetic particles A1 may be iron oxide particles modified with an antibody, or may be treated to prevent biological materials from agglutinating. The capture device A10 includes multiple magnetic force generators A20, a tube A30, a support A40, and multiple spacers A50.

[0147] Each of the magnetic force generating units A20 generates a magnetic force. The magnetic force generating units A20 are arranged in a first direction (the X-axis direction in FIG. 13 , etc.). Each of the magnetic force generating units A20 includes a magnet A21, a yoke A22, and a plurality of bolts A23.

[0148] Magnet A21 extends in a first direction. In this embodiment, magnet A21 is elongated with the first direction as its longitudinal direction, and is plate-shaped with a thickness direction in a second direction (the Z-axis direction in FIG. 13, etc.) perpendicular to the first direction, and has a rectangular cross section perpendicular to the first direction. Magnet A21 is also magnetized in the second direction. One side of magnet A21 in the second direction (the positive side in the Z-axis direction in FIG. 13, etc.) is the north pole, and the other side of magnet A21 in the second direction (the negative side in the Z-axis direction in FIG. 13, etc.) is the south pole. Magnet A21 has a pair of edge portions A21a, A21b.

[0149] The pair of edge portions A21a, A21b each extend in a first direction, and are arranged to sandwich an end face A21c on one side of the magnet A21 in the second direction. The edge portion A21a is an example of a first edge portion, and the edge portion A21b is an example of a second edge portion.

[0150] The yoke A22 is attached to the magnet A21. In this embodiment, the yoke A22 is open on one side in the second direction, and the magnet A21 is disposed inside the yoke A22. For example, the yoke A22 is formed of a metal such as iron. The yoke A22 has a first opposing portion A22a, a second opposing portion A22b, and a base portion A22c.

[0151] The first opposing portion A22a is located on one side of the magnet A21 (the positive side of the Y-axis direction in FIG. 13 , etc.) in a third direction (the Y-axis direction in FIG. 13 , etc.) that is perpendicular to the first direction and perpendicular to the second direction, and faces the magnet A21 across a first air gap A24a in the third direction. The first opposing portion A22a extends in the first direction, from a position facing the end of one side of the magnet A21 in the first direction (the positive side of the X-axis direction in FIG. 13 , etc.) to a position facing the end of the other side of the magnet A21 in the first direction (the negative side of the X-axis direction in FIG. 13 , etc.). The first opposing portion A22a also protrudes to one side in the second direction, from a position facing the end of the other side of the magnet A21 in the second direction to a position facing the end of one side of the magnet A21 in the second direction. The first opposing portion A22a is located to one side of the end face A21c in the second direction. The first opposing portion A22a is connected to one end of the base portion A22c in the third direction, and protrudes from that end to one side in the second direction.

[0152] The second opposing portion A22b is located on the other side of the magnet A21 in the third direction (the negative side of the Y-axis direction in FIG. 13 , etc.) and faces the magnet A21 in the third direction across a second air gap A24b. The second opposing portion A22b extends in the first direction from a position facing one end of the magnet A21 in the first direction to a position facing the other end of the magnet A21 in the first direction. The second opposing portion A22b also protrudes to one side in the second direction from a position facing the other end of the magnet A21 in the second direction to a position facing the one end of the magnet A21 in the second direction. The second opposing portion A22b extends to one side of the end face A21c in the second direction. The second opposing portion A22b is connected to the other end of the base portion A22c in the third direction and protrudes from that end to one side in the second direction.

[0153] The base A22c is located on the other side of the magnet A21 in the second direction and is connected to the magnet A21. The base A22c extends in the first direction and is connected to the magnet A21 from one end of the magnet A21 to the other end of the magnet A21 in the first direction. The base A22c is provided on one side of the magnet A21 and on the other side of the magnet A21 in the third direction.

[0154] 15, the yoke A22 is arranged so that the magnetic flux emitted from the north pole of the magnet A21 passes through the first opposing portion A22a and then through the base A22c to enter the south pole of the magnet A21, and so that the magnetic flux emitted from the north pole of the magnet A21 passes through the second opposing portion A22b and then through the base A22c to enter the south pole of the magnet A21 (see the thick arrows in FIG. 15). The magnetic flux density is greater near the edge portion A21a and near the edge portion A21b than near the center of the end face A21c in the third direction, and the magnetic force of the magnet A21 is greater.

[0155] 13, each of the multiple bolts A23 is a member for attaching the yoke A22 to the magnet A21. After being inserted into the magnet A21, the bolt A23 is threadedly engaged with the yoke A22, and the yoke A22 can be attached to the magnet A21 by tightening the bolt A23. Note that the yoke A22 may also be attached to the magnet A21 using an adhesive or the like, for example, without using the bolts A23.

[0156] 13 and 14 , the tube A30 is a tube for passing a liquid containing magnetic particles A1 bound to a biological material. For example, the tube A30 is made of silicon or the like. The tube A30 has a first extension portion A31, a second extension portion A32, and a communication portion A33.

[0157] The first extension portion A31 extends along the edge portion A21a. Specifically, the first extension portion A31 is tubular with its axial direction in the first direction and extends in the first direction along the edge portion A21a. In the present embodiment, the first extension portion A31 extends along the edge portions A21a of each of the multiple magnets A21. The first extension portion A31 is located on one side of the edge portion A21a and the first air gap A24a in the second direction. Specifically, the internal space of the first extension portion A31 is located on one side of the edge portion A21a and the first air gap A24a in the second direction. The first extension portion A31 is provided with an air gap between it and the edge portion A21a and is provided so as to be in contact with the first opposing portion A22a.

[0158] The second extension portion A32 extends along the edge portion A21b. Specifically, the second extension portion A32 is tubular with its axial direction in the first direction and extends in the first direction along the edge portion A21b. In the present embodiment, the second extension portion A32 extends along the edge portions A21b of each of the multiple magnets A21. The second extension portion A32 is located on one side of the edge portion A21b and the second air gap A24b in the second direction. Specifically, the internal space of the second extension portion A32 is located on one side of the edge portion A21b and the second air gap A24b in the second direction. The second extension portion A32 is provided with an air gap between it and the edge portion A21b and is provided so as to be in contact with the second opposing portion A22b.

[0159] The communicating portion A33 is tubular and connected to one end of the first extending portion A31 in the first direction and one end of the second extending portion A32 in the first direction, thereby communicating the first extending portion A31 and the second extending portion A32. In other words, the internal spaces of the first extending portion A31 and the second extending portion A32 are connected via the internal space of the communicating portion A33. The communicating portion A33 is curved in a U-shape when viewed from the second direction.

[0160] The support part A40 supports the magnetic force generation part A20 and the tube A30. The support part A40 has a first support member A41, a second support member A42, a plurality of bolts A43, a plurality of nuts A44, a plurality of nuts A45, and a plurality of nuts A46.

[0161] The first support member A41 has a plate shape with its thickness direction aligned in the second direction. The magnetic force generation unit A20 is disposed on one side of the first support member A41 in the second direction, and the first support member A41 supports the magnetic force generation unit A20.

[0162] The second support member A42 is plate-shaped with its thickness in the second direction. The tube A30 is disposed on the other side of the second support member A42 in the second direction, and the second support member A42 supports the tube A30. For example, the tube A30 is fixed to the second support member A42 with a cable tie or the like, and the second support member A42 supports the tube A30 via the cable tie or the like.

[0163] Each of the plurality of bolts A43 is inserted into the first support member A41 and the second support member A42 from the other side in the second direction. Each of the plurality of nuts A44 is threaded onto the bolt A43 on one side of the first support member A41 in the second direction. By tightening the nuts A44, the first support member A41 and the bolt A43 are fixed together. Each of the plurality of nuts A45 is threaded onto the bolt A43 on the other side of the second support member A42 in the second direction, and each of the plurality of nuts A46 is threaded onto the bolt A43 on one side of the second support member A42 in the second direction. By tightening the nuts A45 and A46, the second support member A42 and the bolt A43 are fixed together. By changing the position of the nuts A45 in the second direction, the position of the second support member A42 can be changed, and the position of the tube A30 relative to the magnetic force generator A20 can be changed.

[0164] Each of the multiple spacers A50 is a member for preventing the second support member A42 from getting too close to the first support member A41. The spacer A50 is fixed to the other main surface of the second support member A42 in the second direction and is located between the magnet A21 and the second support member A42. Without the spacer A50, depending on the position of the nut A45, the second support member A42 may get too close to the first support member A41, potentially causing the tube A30 to be pinched between the magnetic force generator A20 and the second support member A42 and damaged. Therefore, by providing the spacer A50, when the spacer A50 comes into contact with the magnet A21, the second support member A42 can be prevented from getting any closer to the first support member A41, thereby preventing damage to the tube A30.

[0165] The capturing device A10 described above can capture magnetic particles A1 by flowing a liquid containing magnetic particles A1 into the tube A30. Note that the magnetic particles A1 captured by the capturing device A10 also include magnetic particles A1 that are not bound to biological materials.

[0166] For example, a tube A2 for introducing liquid into the tube A30 is connected to the first extension A31, and a tube A3 for discharging liquid discharged from the tube A30 is connected to the second extension A32.

[0167] The biological material and magnetic particles A1 are bound by a predetermined method, and phosphate buffered saline containing the magnetic particles A1 bound to the biological material is flowed into tube A2, causing the phosphate buffered saline to flow into tube A30. The phosphate buffered saline that has flowed into tube A30 passes through first extension portion A31, communication portion A33, and second extension portion A32 in this order, and is then discharged from tube A30. The phosphate buffered saline that has been discharged from tube A30 flows through tube A3 and is then collected.

[0168] When the phosphate buffered saline passes through tube A30, the magnetic force of magnet A21 causes magnetic particles A1 contained in the phosphate buffered saline to adhere to the inner surface of tube A30, so that the magnetic particles A1 are not expelled from tube A30 and can be captured within tube A30. In this way, the phosphate buffered saline and the magnetic particles A1 can be separated and recovered separately.

[0169] As described above, the magnetic flux density is greater near the edge portion A21a and the edge portion A21b than near the center of the end face A21c in the third direction, and the magnetic force of the magnet A21 is therefore greater. In the capture device A10, the tube A30 is arranged along the edge portion A21a and the edge portion A21b, so that the magnetic particles A1 can be captured with a greater magnetic force and more efficiently.

[0170] The capture device A10 of this embodiment comprises a magnet A21 extending in a first direction and a tube A30 for flowing a liquid containing magnetic particles A1 bound to biological material, the magnet A21 having an edge portion A21a extending in the first direction, and the tube A30 having a first extension portion A31 extending along the edge portion A21a.

[0171] According to this, the magnetic force generated by the magnet A21 is relatively strong near the edge portion A21a, so when a liquid containing magnetic particles A1 is flowed into the first extension portion A31, the magnetic particles A1 can be captured by the relatively strong magnetic force, thereby enabling more efficient capture of the magnetic particles A1.

[0172] In addition, in the capturing device A10 of this embodiment, the magnet A21 is magnetized in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the edge portion A21a is one of a pair of edge portions A21a, A21b arranged to sandwich the end face A21c on one side of the magnet A21 in the second direction.

[0173] This makes it possible to prevent the magnetic particles A1 from being captured in a biased manner in the first direction, thereby enabling the magnetic particles A1 to be captured more efficiently.

[0174] In addition, in the capturing device A10 according to this embodiment, the first extending portion A31 is located on one side of the edge portion A21a in the second direction.

[0175] This allows the magnetic particles A1 to be captured with a larger magnetic force, so that the magnetic particles can be captured more efficiently.

[0176] In addition, the capturing device A10 of this embodiment comprises a yoke A22 having a base A22c located on the other side of the magnet A21 in the second direction, a first opposing portion A22a located on one side of the magnet A21 in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and perpendicular to the second direction, facing the magnet A21 across a first air gap A24a, and connected to one end of the base A22c in the third direction, and a second opposing portion A22b located on the other side of the magnet A21 in the third direction, facing the magnet A21 across a second air gap A24b, and connected to the other end of the base A22c in the third direction, and the first extension portion A31 is located on one side of the first air gap A24a in the second direction.

[0177] This allows the magnetic particles A1 to be captured with a larger magnetic force, so that the magnetic particles A1 can be captured more efficiently.

[0178] In addition, in the capturing device A10 of this embodiment, the tube A30 has a second extension portion A32 extending along the other edge portion A21b of the pair of edge portions A21a, A21b, and a communication portion A33 connected to one end of the first extension portion A31 in the first direction and one end of the second extension portion A32 in the first direction to communicate the first extension portion A31 and the second extension portion A32, and the second extension portion A32 is located on one side of the edge portion A21b and the second air gap A24b in the second direction.

[0179] This allows the magnetic particles A1 to be captured more efficiently in the second extending portion A32 as well, so that the magnetic particles A1 can be captured even more efficiently.

[0180] Second Embodiment Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a capturing device A110 according to a second embodiment. Figs. 17A and 17B are cross-sectional views showing displacement of the tube A30 of the capturing device A110 of Fig. 16. The capturing device A110 will be described with reference to Figs. 16, 17A, and 17B.

[0181] As shown in FIG. 16, the capture device A110 differs from the capture device A10 mainly in that it includes a support portion A140 that is different from the support portion A40.

[0182] The support part A140 differs from the support part A40 mainly in that it does not have multiple nuts A46, it has multiple bolts A143 instead of multiple bolts A43, and it has a first moving mechanism A147.

[0183] The bolt A143 differs from the bolt A43 mainly in that the bolt A143 is longer than the bolt A43 and extends further to one side in the second direction than the bolt A43.

[0184] The first moving mechanism A147 is capable of moving the tube A30 away from the magnet A21, and is also capable of moving the tube A30 that has been moved away from the magnet A21 towards the magnet A21. In other words, the first moving mechanism A147 is capable of reversibly moving the tube A30 relative to the magnet A21. The first moving mechanism A147 has a connecting member A147a and a winding device (not shown).

[0185] The connecting member A147a is long, has one end connected to the second support member A42, and the other end connected to a winding device, and can be wound up by the winding device. The connecting member A147a may be linear, such as a string, thread, or rope, or may be sheet-shaped, as long as it can be wound up by the winding device.

[0186] As shown in Figure 17A, when the second support member A42 is placed on the nut A45, the connecting member A147a can be wound up by a winding device, and as shown in Figure 17B, the tube A30 can be moved to one side in the second direction away from the magnet A21.

[0187] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 17B, when the tube A30 has moved away from the magnet A21, by unwinding the connecting member A147a from the winding device, the tube A30 can be moved to the other side of the second direction so as to move closer to the magnet A21, as shown in Figure 17A.

[0188] In the capture device A110 described above, by moving the tube A30 away from the magnet A21, the magnetic particles A1 that have been attached to the inner surface of the tube A30 by the magnetic force of the magnet A21 can be separated from the inner surface of the tube A30. Therefore, for example, if a cleaning liquid is placed inside the tube A30, the magnetic particles A1 can be separated from the inner surface of the tube A30 and washed. Then, after the magnetic particles A1 have been separated from the inner surface of the tube A30 and washed, the tube A30 can be moved closer to the magnet A21, whereby the magnetic particles A1 can be attached to the inner surface of the tube A30 again and captured.

[0189] The capture device A110 of this embodiment is equipped with a first moving mechanism A147 that is capable of moving the tube A30 away from the magnet A21 and is capable of moving the tube A30 that has been moved away from the magnet A21 closer to the magnet A21.

[0190] According to this, by moving the tube A30 away from the magnet A21, the magnetic particles A1 that have been captured by magnetic force by being attracted to the inner surface of the tube A30 can be separated from the inner surface of the tube A30. Furthermore, by moving the tube A30 that has been moved away from the magnet A21 closer to the magnet A21, the magnetic particles A1 that have been separated from the inner surface of the tube A30 can be attracted and captured again by the inner surface of the tube A30. Therefore, the magnetic particles A1 can be separated from the inner surface of the tube A30, washed, and then attracted and captured again by the inner surface of the tube A30.

[0191] (Third embodiment) Fig. 18 is a plan view showing a capturing device A210 according to a third embodiment. Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIX-XIX in Fig. 18. The capturing device A210 will be described with reference to Figs. 18 and 19.

[0192] As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the capturing device A210 includes a magnetic force generating unit A20, a tube A230, and a second moving mechanism A250.

[0193] The tube A230 is supported by a support (not shown) etc. The tube A230 has a plurality of extending portions A231, A232, A233 and a plurality of communicating portions A234, A235.

[0194] The extension portion A231 extends along the edge portion A21a. Specifically, the extension portion A231 is tubular with its axial direction in the first direction and extends in the first direction along the edge portion A21a. The extension portion A231 is located on one side of the edge portion A21a and the first air gap A24a in the second direction. Specifically, the internal space of the extension portion A231 is located on one side of the edge portion A21a and the first air gap A24a in the second direction.

[0195] The extending portion A232 has a tubular shape with its axial direction aligned with the first direction and extends in the first direction. The extending portion A232 is located on the other side of the extending portion A231 in the third direction.

[0196] The extending portion A233 has a tubular shape with its axial direction aligned with the first direction and extends in the first direction. The extending portion A233 is located on the other side of the extending portion A232 in the third direction.

[0197] The communicating portion A234 is tubular and connected to one end of the extending portion A231 in the first direction and one end of the extending portion A232 in the first direction, thereby communicating the extending portion A231 with the extending portion A232. In other words, the internal spaces of the extending portion A231 and the extending portion A232 are connected via the internal space of the communicating portion A234. The communicating portion A234 is curved in a U-shape when viewed from the second direction.

[0198] The communicating portion A235 is tubular and connected to the other end of the extending portion A232 in the first direction and the other end of the extending portion A233 in the first direction, thereby communicating the extending portion A232 with the extending portion A233. In other words, the internal space of the extending portion A232 and the internal space of the extending portion A233 are connected via the internal space of the communicating portion A235. The communicating portion A235 is curved in a U-shape when viewed from the second direction.

[0199] The second movement mechanism A250 is capable of moving the magnet A21 relative to the tube A230 along the axial direction of the tube A230. The second movement mechanism A250 has an arm A251 and a control device (not shown).

[0200] The arm A251 is connected to the magnetic force generating unit A20 and can be moved or rotated by a control device. For example, the control device controls a motor or the like to move or rotate the arm A251.

[0201] The control device moves the arm A251 to one side in the first direction, thereby moving the magnet A21 and the yoke A22 along the axial direction of the extension portion A231. The control device also moves the arm A251 while rotating it, thereby moving the magnet A21 and the yoke A22 along the axial direction of the communication portion A234. For example, the control device moves the magnet A21 and the yoke A22 so that the front and rear ends of the edge portion A21a in the movement direction of the magnet A21 move along the axial direction of the communication portion A234. The control device also moves the arm A251 to the other side in the first direction, thereby moving the magnet A21 and the yoke A22 along the axial direction of the extension portion A232. The control device also moves the arm A251 while rotating it, thereby moving the magnet A21 and the yoke A22 along the axial direction of the communication portion A235. For example, the control device moves the magnet A21 and the yoke A22 so that the front and rear ends of the edge portion A21a move along the axial direction of the communication portion A235 in the movement direction of the magnet A21. The control device also moves the arm A251 to one side in the first direction, thereby moving the magnet A21 and the yoke A22 along the axial direction of the extension portion A233. Note that the control device may move the arm A251 in the second direction to move the magnet A21 away from the tube A230, or may move the magnet A21, which has been moved away from the tube A230, closer to the tube A230.

[0202] In the capture device A210 described above, by moving the magnet A21 and the yoke A22 in the axial direction of the tube A230, the magnetic particles A1 in the tube A230 can be moved in the axial direction of the tube A230 together with the magnet A21 and the yoke A22. For example, phosphate buffered saline containing the magnetic particles A1 is poured into the tube A230, and when the tube A230 is filled with the phosphate buffered saline, a valve (not shown) or the like is closed to maintain the state filled with the phosphate buffered saline. In this state, by moving the magnet A21 and the yoke A22 in the axial direction of the tube A230, the magnetic particles A1 in the tube A230 can be moved in the axial direction of the tube A230 together with the magnet A21 and the yoke A22, and the magnetic particles A1 can be collected.

[0203] The capturing device A210 according to this embodiment includes a second moving mechanism A250 that can move the magnet A21 relative to the tube A230 along the axial direction of the tube A230.

[0204] According to this, the magnetic particles A1 can be collected by moving the magnet A21 relative to the tube A230 along the axial direction of the tube A230, so that the magnetic particles A1 can be captured more efficiently.

[0205] While the capturing device according to one or more aspects has been described above based on the embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. As long as the modifications do not deviate from the spirit of the present disclosure, modifications that would occur to those skilled in the art may also be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0206] In the first to third embodiments described above, the magnet A21 has a north pole on one side in the second direction and a south pole on the other side in the second direction, but this is not limiting. For example, the magnet may have a south pole on one side in the second direction and a north pole on the other side in the second direction.

[0207] In the second embodiment described above, the first moving mechanism A147 is capable of moving the tube A30 away from the magnet A21 and moving the tube A30, which has been moved away from the magnet A21, toward the magnet A21. However, this is not limiting. The first moving mechanism may be capable of moving the magnet away from the tube and moving a magnet that has been moved away from the tube toward the tube. For example, by flipping the magnetic force generator A20 in the second direction and fixing it to the second support member A42, flipping the tube A30 and the spacer A50 in the second direction and fixing them to the first support member A41, and moving the second support member A42 in the second direction as described above, the magnet A21 can be moved away from the tube A30 and the magnet A21, which has been moved away from the tube A30, can be moved toward the tube A30. The configuration of the first moving mechanism is not particularly limited, as long as it is capable of moving one of the magnet and the tube away from the other, and that after moving the one away from the other, it is capable of moving the one closer to the other.

[0208] Furthermore, in the third embodiment described above, the second movement mechanism A250 is capable of moving the magnet A21 relative to the tube A230 along the axial direction of the tube A230, but this is not limited thereto. The second movement mechanism may also be capable of moving the tube relative to the magnet along the first edge portion. For example, by attaching an arm A251 to the tube A230 and moving or rotating the arm A251, the tube A230 can be moved along the edge portion A21a relative to the magnet A21. The configuration of the second movement mechanism is not particularly limited, and it may be any mechanism capable of moving the magnet relative to the tube along the axial direction of the tube or moving the tube relative to the magnet along the first edge portion.

[0209] (Additional Note) The above description of the embodiments and the like discloses the following techniques.

[0210] (Technology 1) A capture device comprising: a magnet extending in a first direction; and a tube for flowing a liquid containing magnetic particles bound to a biological material, wherein the magnet has a first edge portion extending in the first direction; and the tube has a first extension portion extending along the first edge portion.

[0211] (Technology 2) A capturing device described in Technology 1, wherein the magnet is magnetized in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the first edge portion is one of a pair of edge portions arranged to sandwich an end face on one side of the magnet in the second direction.

[0212] (Technology 3) The capturing device according to Technology 2, wherein the first extension portion is located on one side of the first edge portion in the second direction.

[0213] (Technology 4) A capturing device described in Technology 3, comprising a yoke having a base located on the other side of the magnet in the second direction, a first opposing portion located on one side of the magnet in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and perpendicular to the second direction, facing the magnet across a first air gap, and connected to an end of the base on one side in the third direction, and a second opposing portion located on the other side of the magnet in the third direction, facing the magnet across a second air gap, and connected to an end of the base on the other side in the third direction, wherein the first extension portion is located on one side of the first air gap in the second direction.

[0214] (Technology 5) The tube has a second extension portion extending along a second edge portion that is the other of the pair of edge portions, and a communication portion connected to one end of the first extension portion in the first direction and one end of the second extension portion in the first direction to communicate the first extension portion with the second extension portion, and the second extension portion is located on one side of the second edge portion and the second air gap in the second direction, in a capturing device described in Technology 4.

[0215] (Technology 6) The capture device according to any one of Technologies 1 to 5, further comprising a first movement mechanism that is capable of moving one of the magnet and the tube away from the other, and that is capable of moving the one that has been moved away from the other toward the other.

[0216] (Technology 7) The capture device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 6, further comprising a second movement mechanism that is capable of moving the magnet relative to the tube along the axial direction of the tube, or moving the tube relative to the magnet along the first edge portion.

[0217] The present disclosure also includes an embodiment in which the first and second disclosures are combined.

[0218] The present disclosure is applicable to a position detection method that detects the position of a liquid based on capacitance, or a capture device that captures magnetic particles bound to a biological material by magnetic force.

[0219] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 First liquid 2 Second liquid 3 Air 4 Container 10 Liquid supply system 20 Liquid supply device 21, 22, 23 Pump 24, 25, 27, 40 Valve 26 Injector 30, 130 Position detection device 31, 50, 131, A2, A3, A30, A230 Tube 31a First flow path section 31b Second flow path section 31c Third flow path section 31d Branch section 32 Touch panel 32a, 32b Electrode 33 Display section 34 Abnormality determination section 35 Notification section 36 Arrival determination section 37 Switching section 38 Calculation section A1 Magnetic particle A10, A110, A210 Capture device A20 Magnetic force generation section A21 Magnet A21a, A21b Edge section A21c End face A22 Yoke A22a First opposing portion A22b Second opposing portion A22c Base portion A23, A43, A143 Bolt A24a First air gap A24b Second air gap A31 First extending portion A32 Second extending portion A33, A234, A235 Communication portion A40, A140 Support portion A41 First supporting member A42 Second supporting member A44, A45, A46 Nut A50 Spacer A147 First moving mechanism A147a Connecting member A231, A232, A233 Extension portion A250 Second moving mechanism A251 Arm

Claims

1. A position detection method for detecting the position of a first liquid flowing through a replaceable tube, comprising: a measurement step for measuring the capacitance between the first liquid flowing through the tube and a plurality of electrodes arranged side by side in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, using the plurality of electrodes for measuring capacitance; and an output step for outputting a measurement signal corresponding to the capacitance measured in the measurement step.

2. The position detection method according to claim 1, wherein the first liquid is supplied to flow through the tube, and in the measurement step, the capacitance is measured using the plurality of electrodes after the first liquid has been supplied.

3. The position detection method according to claim 2, wherein air is supplied to flow through the tube in place of the first liquid, and in the measurement step, after the air is supplied, the capacitance is measured using the plurality of electrodes.

4. A position detection method as described in claim 2, wherein a second liquid having a dielectric constant different from that of the first liquid is supplied to flow through the tube in place of the first liquid, and in the measurement step, after the second liquid has been supplied, the capacitance is measured using the multiple electrodes.

5. A position detection method as described in claim 2, wherein a container containing air is supplied so that the container flows into the tube following the first liquid, and in the measurement step, after the container is supplied, the capacitance is measured using the plurality of electrodes.

6. The position detection method according to claim 5, wherein the tube has a first flow path section into which the first liquid flows, a branch section connected to the first flow path section, a second flow path section branching from the first flow path section via the branch section, and a third flow path section branching from the first flow path section via the branch section, and wherein the second liquid, having a dielectric constant different from that of the first liquid, is supplied to cause the second liquid to flow through the tube and then through the container, and the method comprises: in the measurement step, after the second liquid is supplied, measuring the capacitance using the plurality of electrodes; a reach determination step of determining whether or not the container has reached a predetermined position based on the measurement signal output in the output step; and a switching step of, if it is determined in the reach determination step that the container has not reached the predetermined position, causing the first liquid to flow from the first flow path section to the second flow path section, and if it is determined in the reach determination step that the container has reached the predetermined position, switching so that the container and the second liquid flow from the first flow path section to the third flow path section.

7. A position detection method according to claim 5 or 6, further comprising a calculation step of calculating a velocity of the first liquid flowing through the tube based on the measurement signal output in the output step.

8. A position detection method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a display step of displaying a measurement result of the capacitance based on the measurement signal output in the output step.

9. A position detection method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: an abnormality determination step of determining whether or not an abnormality has occurred based on the measurement signal output in the output step; and a notification step of notifying the occurrence of the abnormality if it is determined in the abnormality determination step that the abnormality has occurred.

10. A position detection device comprising: a replaceable tube; and a plurality of electrodes arranged side by side in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, for measuring capacitance, wherein the plurality of electrodes measure the capacitance between a liquid flowing in the tube and the plurality of electrodes, and output a measurement signal according to the measured capacitance.

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