FLUID PRESSURE-FEEDING DEVICE

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of PCT International Application No. PCT/JP2023/047366, filed on Dec. 29, 2023. The above application(s) is hereby expressly incorporated by reference, in its entirety, into the present application.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a fluid pressure-feeding device used for, for example, supplying liquid to a biomimetic system device.

Related Art

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2016-88602 discloses a liquid supply device that supplies water to a mouse. The liquid supply device of Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2016-88602 includes a case and a balloon. Among both axial ends of the balloon, a first shaft is arranged at one axial end (end on outflow side), and a second shaft is arranged at the other axial end (end on filling side).

When the water is filled into the balloon, a liquid source is connected to a filling port of the second shaft. The water is filled into the balloon via the filling port. An outlet of the first shaft is connected to a pipe with a valve. The valve is in a closed state when the water is filled into the balloon. After the water is filled into the balloon, the filling port is sealed with a cover. When the water is supplied from the balloon to the mouse, the valve of the pipe is switched from the closed state to an open state. The water flows out from the balloon via the outlet of the first shaft.

In the case of the liquid supply device of Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2016-88602, when the water is filled into the balloon via the filling port, it is necessary to prevent the water from flowing out from the balloon via the outlet. Hence, it is necessary to arrange a valve on the outflow side. Accordingly, the number of parts is increased. The pipe and the valve are each independent of the liquid supply device. Hence, in the case of moving the liquid supply device, it is necessary to move the pipe and valve in addition to the liquid supply device. Accordingly, the handleability is low. Accordingly, the present disclosure aims to provide a fluid pressure-feeding device including a small number of parts and having high handleability.

SUMMARY

A fluid pressure-feeding device of the present disclosure includes: a balloon pump of a bag shape, being elastically expandable, contractible and deformable, and defining a pump chamber inside; and a flow path unit, including at least a portion of a flow path communicating with the pump chamber. The balloon pump and the flow path unit are integrally arranged. The flow path includes a supply path that supplies a fluid to the pump chamber, and a discharge path that discharges the fluid from the pump chamber. The discharge path has a greater pressure loss than the supply path.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fluid pressure-feeding device of a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view in a front-rear direction of the said fluid pressure-feeding device.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view along III-III of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view within a frame IV of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view in the front-rear direction of the said fluid pressure-feeding device when a balloon pump transitions from a contracted state to an expanded state.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view in the front-rear direction of the said fluid pressure-feeding device when the balloon pump transitions from the expanded state to the contracted state.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view in the front-rear direction of a fluid pressure-feeding device of a second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a balloon pump of a fluid pressure-feeding device of a third embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view in the front-rear direction of a fluid pressure-feeding device of a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 10A is a transparent top view of a base material of a fluid pressure-feeding device of another embodiment (No. 1). FIG. 10B is a transparent top view of a base material of a fluid pressure-feeding device of another embodiment (No. 2).

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view in the front-rear direction of a fluid pressure-feeding device of another embodiment (No. 3).

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

(1) A fluid pressure-feeding device of the present disclosure is a fluid pressure-feeding device including: a balloon pump of a bag shape, being elastically expandable, contractible and deformable, and defining a pump chamber inside; and a flow path unit, including at least a portion of a flow path communicating with the pump chamber. The balloon pump and the flow path unit are integrally arranged. The flow path includes a supply path that supplies a fluid to the pump chamber, and a discharge path that discharges the fluid from the pump chamber. The discharge path has a greater pressure loss than the supply path.

Here, the form of “integrally arranged” includes a form in which the balloon pump and at least a portion of the flow path unit are an integral body (single member made by integral molding or the like), and a form in which the balloon pump and the flow path unit are a combined body (composite member integrated by adhesion, joining, assembly or the like). According to the present configuration, the balloon pump and the flow path unit are integrally arranged. Hence, high handleability is achieved.

According to the present configuration, the fluid can be discharged from the pump chamber by utilizing an elastic force of the balloon pump. Hence, the fluid can be pressure-fed without a power source. Accordingly, no power supply member (such as power cord) is needed. Thus, the number of parts can be reduced. High handleability is achieved.

According to the present configuration, the discharge path has a greater pressure loss than the supply path. Hence, when the fluid is supplied to the pump chamber via the supply path, it can be suppressed that the fluid flows out from the pump chamber via the discharge path. Accordingly, when the fluid is supplied to the pump chamber, there is no need to deliberately block the discharge path using, for example, a valve. Thus, the number of parts can be reduced.

On the other hand, when the fluid is discharged from the pump chamber via the discharge path, the pressure loss of the discharge path counteracts a contraction force (discharge pressure) of the balloon pump. Hence, it can be suppressed that a large amount of fluid is discharged from the pump chamber in a short time. Accordingly, the fluid can be continuously discharged in small amounts from the pump chamber.

(1-1) In the configuration of (1), it is preferable that a check valve that suppresses backflow of the fluid in the supply path is further provided. According to the present configuration, it can be suppressed that the fluid flows out (flows back) from the pump chamber to the outside via the supply path.

(1-2) In the configuration of (1) or (1-1), it is preferable that the flow path includes a common part that is shared by the supply path and the discharge path and connects to the pump chamber. According to the present configuration, a portion of the supply path connecting to the pump chamber and a portion of the discharge path connecting to the pump chamber are shared as the common part. Hence, compared to a case where no common part is arranged, a total length of the flow path can be shortened.

(2) In any of the configurations of (1) to (1-2), it is preferable that the flow path unit includes a supply part including at least a portion of the supply path, a discharge part including at least a portion of the discharge path, and a pump accommodation part defined between the supply part and the discharge part and accommodating the balloon pump.

When the fluid is supplied to the pump chamber, the pump chamber, that is, the balloon pump, expands. On the other hand, when the fluid is discharged from the pump chamber, the pump chamber, that is, the balloon pump, contracts. According to the present configuration, the pump accommodation part is defined between the supply part and the discharge part. Hence, a space for expansion and contraction of the balloon pump can be secured.

(3) In the configuration of (2), a direction in which the supply part and the discharge part are arranged in parallel is taken as an axial direction. It is preferable that the flow path unit includes a base material of a sheet shape, the base material connecting the supply part and the discharge part, being arranged in parallel with the pump accommodation part, and extending in the axial direction. It is preferable that the flow path includes an extension part arranged in the base material. It is preferable that the extension part has a greater length in the axial direction than the pump accommodation part.

According to the present configuration, the pump accommodation part can be secured between the supply part and the discharge part by the base material. The extension part has a greater length in the axial direction than the pump accommodation part. Hence, the degree of freedom in the shape, size, arrangement or the like of the extension part can be increased. The base material is arranged in parallel with the pump accommodation part, that is, the balloon pump. Hence, interference between the balloon pump and an adjacent member that is adjacent to the balloon pump with the base material in between can be suppressed.

(4) In the configuration of (2) or (3), a direction in which the supply part and the discharge part are arranged in parallel is taken as an axial direction, a direction orthogonal to the axial direction is taken as an axially perpendicular direction, a state in which the balloon pump contracts and a storage amount of the fluid in the pump chamber becomes minimum is taken as a contracted state, and a state in which the balloon pump expands and the storage amount of the fluid in the pump chamber becomes maximum is taken as an expanded state. It is preferable that, in the contracted state, the balloon pump is accommodated in the pump accommodation part with excess space remaining in the axial direction. It is preferable that, during a transition from the contracted state to the expanded state, the balloon pump expands more greatly in the axial direction than in the axially perpendicular direction.

According to the present configuration, the balloon pump can be expanded by utilizing the excess space of the pump accommodation part. In other words, the fluid can be stored by utilizing the excess space of the pump accommodation part.

(5) In the configuration of (2) or (3), a direction in which the supply part and the discharge part are arranged in parallel is taken as an axial direction, a direction orthogonal to the axial direction is taken as an axially perpendicular direction, a state in which the balloon pump contracts and a storage amount of the fluid in the pump chamber becomes minimum is taken as a contracted state, and a state in which the balloon pump expands and the storage amount of the fluid in the pump chamber becomes maximum is taken as an expanded state. It is preferable that the balloon pump has one axial end fixed to the supply part and the other axial end fixed to the discharge part. It is preferable that, in the contracted state, the balloon pump is in a suspended state. It is preferable that, during a transition from the contracted state to the expanded state, the balloon pump expands in the axially perpendicular direction.

According to the present configuration, in the contracted state, the balloon pump is maintained in the suspended state between the supply part and the discharge part. The balloon pump is separated from the adjacent member. Hence, interference between the balloon pump and the adjacent member can be suppressed. During a transition from the contracted state to the expanded state, the balloon pump expands mainly in the axially perpendicular direction. Hence, the balloon pump can be prevented from slidably contacting the adjacent member in the axial direction.

(6) In any of the configurations of (1) to (5), it is preferable that the discharge path includes a micro flow path part having smaller flow path cross-sectional area than the supply path. According to the present configuration, the discharge path includes the micro flow path part. Hence, the pressure loss of the discharge path can be easily set greater than the pressure loss of the supply path.

(7) In any of the configurations of (1) to (6), it is preferable that the supply path and the discharge path have at least one of following relationships (A) to (C): (A) the discharge path has smaller flow path cross-sectional area than the supply path; (B) the discharge path has a greater flow path length than the supply path; (C) the supply path and the discharge path are different in flow path shape.

By providing a difference in flow path cross-sectional area in the case of (A), by providing a difference in flow path length in the case of (B), and by providing a difference in flow path shape in the case of (C), the pressure loss of the discharge path can be easily set greater than the pressure loss of the supply path in each case.

(8) In any of the configurations of (1) to (7), it is preferable that a wall of the balloon pump includes a base wall part and a thick wall part having a greater wall thickness than the base wall part. According to the present configuration, due to the difference in wall thickness, the thick wall part has a larger spring constant during expansion and contraction of the balloon pump than the base wall part. Hence, compared to the base wall part, the thick wall part is able to apply a greater load (elastic restoring force) to the fluid during contraction (during discharge). Accordingly, compared to a case where the balloon pump does not include the thick wall part, the discharge pressure of the balloon pump can be increased. In this way, by partially providing the thick wall part to the balloon pump, the discharge pressure can be easily adjusted.

(8-1) In the configuration of (8), an extension direction of the pump accommodation part is taken as an axial direction, and an annular direction about a central axis of the balloon pump extending in the axial direction is taken as a circumferential direction. It is preferable that the thick wall part is a portion including a circumferential rib extending in the circumferential direction in the wall of the balloon pump. According to the present configuration, the thick wall part can be arranged along the circumferential direction of the balloon pump.

(8-2) In the configuration of (8) or (8-1), the extension direction of the pump accommodation part is taken as the axial direction. It is preferable that the thick wall part is a portion including an axial rib extending in the axial direction in the wall of the balloon pump. According to the present configuration, the thick wall part can be arranged along the axial direction of the balloon pump.

(9) In any of the configurations of (1) to (8-2), it is preferable that the balloon pump is made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) has high releasability. Hence, according to the present configuration, in the case of manufacturing the balloon pump using a molding die, the balloon pump can be improved in shape accuracy. PDMS has high gas permeability. Hence, the balloon pump can be improved in gas permeability.

(10) In any of the configurations of (1) to (9), it is preferable that the balloon pump and at least a portion of the flow path unit are an integral body. According to the present configuration, relative positioning accuracy between the balloon pump and the flow path unit can be improved. The number of parts of the fluid pressure-feeding device can be reduced. There is no joint between the balloon pump and the flow path unit. Hence, sealing performance between the pump chamber and the flow path can be improved.

(11) In any of the configurations of (1) to (10), it is preferable that a connection part is provided, the connection part being arranged between the flow path unit and the adjacent member, and being attachable and detachable with respect to at least one of the flow path unit and the adjacent member. According to the present configuration, work of connecting and separating the fluid pressure-feeding device to and from the adjacent member (such as, for example, an upstream device connected to an upstream side of the supply path, or a downstream device connected to a downstream side of the discharge path) can be easily performed.

According to the fluid pressure-feeding device of the present disclosure, the number of parts can be reduced. The handleability can be improved.

Hereinafter, embodiments of a fluid pressure-feeding device of the present disclosure will be described.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a fluid pressure-feeding device of the present embodiment. FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view in a front-rear direction (axial direction) of the said fluid pressure-feeding device. FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view along III-III (axially perpendicular direction) of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 illustrates an enlarged view within a frame IV of FIG. 2. A balloon pump shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 is in a contracted state. An upstream connector 5 and a downstream connector 6 shown in FIG. 1 do not appear in the cross-section shown in FIG. 2. Hence, in FIG. 2, for ease of description, section p1 and section p13 are respectively extracted from the upstream connector 5 shown in FIG. 1 and the downstream connector 6 shown in FIG. 1 and are shown in straight lines. Section p2 and section p12 extending in a left-right direction (direction orthogonal to the cross-section in FIG. 2) in FIG. 1 are shown as “⋅” in FIG. 2.

[Configuration of Fluid Pressure-Feeding Device]

First, a configuration of the fluid pressure-feeding device of the present embodiment is described. As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, a fluid pressure-feeding device 1 includes a balloon pump 2, a flow path unit 3, a balloon connector 4, the upstream connector 5, the downstream connector 6, and a flow path P. The upstream connector 5 and the downstream connector 6 are included in the concept of “connection part” of the present disclosure.

The fluid pressure-feeding device 1 is able to supply a liquid (culture medium) L (see FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 described later) to a biomimetic system device (microphysiological system (MPS)) 91 without a power source. The liquid L is included in the concept of “fluid” of the present disclosure.

(Balloon Pump 2)

As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the balloon pump 2 is made of PDMS and has a cylindrical shape elongated in the front-rear direction (axial direction). The balloon pump 2 is elastically expandable, contractible and deformable. Inside the balloon pump 2, a pump chamber 20 is defined. The volume of the pump chamber 20 is able to expand and contract according to the deformation of the balloon pump 2. On an outer surface of a wall 22 of the balloon pump 2, an upper-lower pair of axial ribs 21 are arranged.

As shown in FIG. 3, in the wall 22 of the balloon pump 2, a portion where the axial rib 21 is arranged is a thick wall part 22a. A portion where no axial rib 21 is arranged is a base wall part 22b. Due to the arrangement of the axial rib 21, the thick wall part 22a has a greater wall thickness than the base wall part 22b.

(Flow Path Unit 3)

As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the flow path unit 3 is integrally arranged with the balloon pump 2 via the balloon connector 4 described later. The flow path unit 3 includes a supply part 30, a discharge part 31, a pump accommodation part 32, and a base material 33.

As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, the base material 33 is made of resin and has a rectangular plate shape (sheet shape). The base material 33 extends in the front-rear direction. The base material 33 exhibits a multilayer structure. That is, the base material 33 includes a first layer 330 and a second layer 331. The second layer 331 is laminated on an upper surface of the first layer 330.

As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, the supply part 30 is made of resin and has a rectangular block shape. The supply part 30 is fixed to a rear end (one axial end) of an upper surface of the second layer 331. The discharge part 31 is made of resin and has a rectangular block shape. The discharge part 31 is fixed to a front end (other axial end) of the upper surface of the second layer 331. In this way, the supply part 30 and the discharge part 31 are connected in the front-rear direction via the base material 33.

As shown in FIG. 2, the pump accommodation part 32 is defined between the supply part 30 and the discharge part 31. The balloon pump 2 is accommodated in the pump accommodation part 32. The pump accommodation part 32 extends in the front-rear direction. The pump accommodation part 32 is arranged in parallel with the base material 33 in an up-down direction.

(Balloon Connector 4)

The balloon connector 4 is made of resin and is arranged in the pump accommodation part 32 as shown in FIG. 2. The balloon connector 4 is arranged on a front surface (outer surface on pump accommodation part 32 side) of the supply part 30. The balloon pump 2 is connected to the balloon connector 4. The balloon connector 4 connects the supply part 30 (flow path P) and the balloon pump 2 (pump chamber 20). The balloon connector 4 is attachable and detachable with respect to the supply part 30 and the balloon pump 2. The balloon connector 4 has the same configuration as the upstream connector 5 and the downstream connector 6 described later.

(Upstream Connector 5)

As shown in FIG. 1, the upstream connector 5 is made of resin and is arranged on a right surface (outer surface) of the supply part 30. A liquid supply device (upstream device) 90 is connected to the upstream connector 5 via a tube 90a shown in FIG. 2. The tube 90a is included in the concept of “adjacent member” of the present disclosure. The upstream connector 5 connects the supply part 30 (flow path P) and the tube 90a. The upstream connector 5 is attachable and detachable with respect to the supply part 30 and the tube 90a.

(Downstream Connector 6)

As shown in FIG. 1, the downstream connector 6 is made of resin and is arranged on a left surface (outer surface) of the discharge part 31. The biomimetic system device (downstream device) 91 is connected to the downstream connector 6 via a tube 91a shown in FIG. 2. The tube 91a is included in the concept of “adjacent member” of the present disclosure. The downstream connector 6 connects the discharge part 31 (flow path P) and the tube 91a. The downstream connector 6 is attachable and detachable with respect to the discharge part 31 and the tube 91a.

(Flow Path P)

As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. 4, the flow path P includes sections p1 to p13. The flow path P is arranged extending across the flow path unit 3, the balloon connector 4, the upstream connector 5, and the downstream connector 6. That is, the flow path unit 3, the balloon connector 4, the upstream connector 5, and the downstream connector 6 each include a portion of the flow path P.

Specifically, section p1 is arranged in the upstream connector 5, sections p2 to p3 and p5 are arranged in the supply part 30, section p4 is arranged in the balloon connector 4, sections p6 and p10 are arranged in the second layer 331, sections p7 to p9 are arranged in the first layer 330, sections p11 to p12 are arranged in the discharge part 31, and section p13 is arranged in the downstream connector 6. A check valve p1a is arranged in section p1, that is, in the upstream connector 5. The check valve p1a allows the liquid L (refer to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 described later) to flow only in a direction from the upstream side (upstream side in flow direction of liquid L) toward the downstream side (downstream side in flow direction of liquid L).

As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, the flow path P includes a supply path P1 and a discharge path P2. The supply path P1 is arranged between the tube 90a and the pump chamber 20. Via the supply path P1, the liquid L is supplied from the liquid supply device 90 to the pump chamber 20. The supply path P1 includes sections p1 to p4 among sections p1 to p13. Sections p1 to p4 are connected in the order of section p1, section p2, section p3, and section p4 from the upstream side toward the downstream side. Section p1 at the upstream end is connected to the tube 90a. Section p4 at the downstream end is connected to the pump chamber 20.

As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, the discharge path P2 is arranged between the pump chamber 20 and the tube 91a. Via the discharge path P2, the liquid L is supplied from the pump chamber 20 to the biomimetic system device 91. The discharge path P2 includes sections p3 to p13 among sections p1 to p13. Sections p3 to p13 are connected in the order of section p4, section p3, section p5, section p6, section p7, section p8, section p9, section p10, section p11, section p12, and section p13 from the upstream side toward the downstream side. Section p4 at the upstream end is connected to the pump chamber 20. Section p13 at the upstream end is connected to the tube 91a.

Section p8 is included in the concept of “micro flow path part” of the present disclosure. Section p8 has smaller flow path cross-sectional area (minimum value of the cross-sectional area in a direction orthogonal to an extension direction of the flow path P; the same applies hereinafter) compared to the other sections, namely sections p1 to p7 and sections p9 to p13. Hence, as shown in FIG. 4, flow path cross-sectional area S2 of section p8 is smaller than flow path cross-sectional area S1 of the supply path P1. Accordingly, the liquid L is less likely to flow through the discharge path P2 that includes section p8 than through the supply path P1 that does not include section p8. That is, the discharge path P2 has a greater pressure loss than the supply path P1. Section p8 is included in the concept of “extension part” of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 2, section p8 extends in the front-rear direction. Section p8 has a greater length in the front-rear direction than the pump accommodation part 32.

As shown in FIG. 4, among sections p1 to p13, sections p3 to p4 are a common part shared by the supply path P1 and the discharge path P2. Sections p1 to p2 are a supply-dedicated part exclusively for the supply path P1. As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, sections p5 to p13 are a discharge-dedicated part exclusively for the discharge path P2. Section p8 is a pressure loss difference setting part that sets a pressure loss difference between the supply path P1 and the discharge path P2.

[Usage of Fluid Pressure-Feeding Device]

Next, the usage of a fluid pressure-feeding device of the present embodiment is described. The fluid pressure-feeding device 1 may be used when the liquid L is supplied to the biomimetic system device 91 in an incubator (not shown).

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view in the front-rear direction of the said fluid pressure-feeding device when a balloon pump transitions from a contracted state to an expanded state. FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view in the front-rear direction of the said fluid pressure-feeding device when the balloon pump transitions from the expanded state to the contracted state.

Here, the contracted state refers to a state in which the balloon pump 2 contracts and a storage amount of the liquid L in the pump chamber 20 becomes minimum. The expanded state refers to a state in which the balloon pump 2 expands and the storage amount of liquid L in the pump chamber 20 becomes maximum. In FIG. 5, the balloon pump 2 in the contracted state is shown in a dashed-dotted line, and the balloon pump 2 in the expanded state is shown in a solid line. In FIG. 6, the balloon pump 2 in the contracted state is shown in a solid line, and the balloon pump 2 in the expanded state is shown in a dashed-dotted line.

First, outside the incubator, the liquid L of a predetermined amount is stored in the pump chamber 20 of the balloon pump 2 of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1. Specifically, the tube 90a is connected to the upstream connector 5 (section p1 shown in FIG. 5) shown in FIG. 1. The tube 91a shown in FIG. 2 is not connected to the downstream connector 6 (section p13 shown in FIG. 5) shown in FIG. 1. The tube 91a and the biomimetic system device 91 are arranged inside the incubator (not shown).

As shown in FIG. 5, the liquid L is pressure-fed from the liquid supply device 90 to the pump chamber 20 via the tube 90a and the supply path P1 (sections p1 to p4). Due to the pressure-feeding of the liquid L, the pump chamber 20, that is, the balloon pump 2, transitions from the contracted state to the expanded state against its own elastic restoring force (contraction force). In this way, the liquid L is supplied and stored in the pump chamber 20. The check valve p1a is arranged in section p1. Hence, the liquid L does not flow back to the liquid supply device 90 from the pump chamber 20.

Next, the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 is carried into the incubator and connected to the tube 91a shown in FIG. 6. Specifically, first, the tube 90a shown in FIG. 5 is removed from the upstream connector 5 shown in FIG. 1. Subsequently, the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 is carried into the incubator. After that, the tube 91a is connected to the downstream connector 6 (section p13 shown in FIG. 6) shown in FIG. 1.

Here, the elastic restoring force is accumulated in the balloon pump 2 in the expanded state. Hence, as shown in FIG. 6, the liquid L is supplied from the pump chamber 20 to the biomimetic system device 91 via the discharge path P2 (sections p3 to p13) and the tube 91a.

[Effects]

Next, effects of the fluid pressure-feeding device of the present embodiment are described. As shown in FIG. 1, in the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment, the balloon pump 2, the flow path unit 3, the balloon connector 4, the upstream connector 5, and the downstream connector 6 are combined bodies assembled to each other. These members are integrally arranged. Hence, the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 has high handleability and disposability. Since the multiple members mentioned above are integrally arranged, contamination by bacteria or the like can be suppressed.

As shown in FIG. 6, according to the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment, when the liquid L is supplied to the biomimetic system device 91, the liquid L can be discharged from the pump chamber 20 by using an elastic force of the balloon pump 2. Hence, the liquid L can be pressure-fed to the biomimetic system device 91 without a power source. Accordingly, no power supply member (such as power cord) is needed. Thus, the number of parts can be reduced. High handleability and disposability are achieved.

As shown in FIG. 4, according to the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment, the flow path cross-sectional area S2 of section p8 of the discharge path P2 is smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area S1 of the supply path P1. Hence, the discharge path P2 has a greater pressure loss than the supply path P1. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5, when the liquid L is supplied to the pump chamber 20 via the supply path P1, it can be suppressed that a portion of the liquid L flows from section p2 into section p5 and that the liquid L flows out via the discharge path P2. Thus, when the liquid L is supplied to the pump chamber 20, there is no need to deliberately block the discharge path P2 using, for example, a valve. Hence, the number of parts can be reduced.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6, when the liquid L is discharged from the pump chamber 20 via the discharge path P2, the pressure loss of the discharge path P2 (section p8) counteracts a contraction force (discharge pressure) of the balloon pump 2. Hence, it can be suppressed that a large amount of liquid L is discharged from the pump chamber 20 in a short time. Accordingly, the liquid L can be easily continuously discharged in small amounts from the pump chamber 20.

As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the check valve p1a is arranged in section p1 of the upstream connector 5. Hence, it can be suppressed that a fluid flows out (flows back) from the pump chamber 20 to the tube 90a via the supply path P1.

As shown in FIG. 4, the flow path P includes sections p3 to p4. Sections p3 to p4 are the common part shared by the supply path P1 and the discharge path P2. Hence, compared to a case where sections p3 to p4 are not arranged, a total length of the flow path P can be shortened.

As shown in FIG. 5, when the liquid L is supplied to the pump chamber 20, the pump chamber 20, that is, the balloon pump 2, expands. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6, when the liquid L is discharged from the pump chamber 20, the pump chamber 20, that is, the balloon pump 2, contracts. According to the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment, the pump accommodation part 32 is defined between the supply part 30 and the discharge part 31. Hence, a space for expansion and contraction of the balloon pump 2 can be secured.

As shown in FIG. 2, according to the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment, by the base material 33, the pump accommodation part 32 can be secured between the supply part 30 and the discharge part 31. Section p8 (extension part) has a greater length in the front-rear direction than the pump accommodation part 32. Hence, the degree of freedom in the shape, size, arrangement or the like of section p8 can be increased. The base material 33 is arranged in parallel with the pump accommodation part 32, that is, the balloon pump 2, in the up-down direction. Hence, interference between the balloon pump 2 and an adjacent member (for example, liquid supply device 90 and biomimetic system device 91) that is adjacent to the balloon pump 2 with the base material 33 in between can be suppressed.

As shown in a dashed-dotted line in FIG. 5, in the contracted state, the balloon pump 2 is accommodated in the pump accommodation part 32 with excess space remaining in the front-rear direction (axial direction). During a transition from the contracted state to the expanded state, the balloon pump 2 expands more greatly in the front-rear direction than in the up-down and left-right directions (axially perpendicular direction). Hence, the balloon pump 2 can be expanded by utilizing the excess space of the pump accommodation part 32. In other words, the liquid L can be stored by utilizing the excess space of the pump accommodation part 32.

As shown in FIG. 4, the discharge path P2 includes section p8 (micro flow path part). The flow path cross-sectional area S2 of section p8 is smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area S1 of the supply path P1. That is, the discharge path P2 has smaller flow path cross-sectional area than the supply path P1. Hence, the pressure loss of the discharge path P2 can be easily set greater than the pressure loss of the supply path P1.

As shown in FIG. 3, the thick wall part 22a has a greater wall thickness than the base wall part 22b. Due to the difference in wall thickness, the thick wall part 22a has a larger spring constant during expansion and contraction of the balloon pump 2 than the base wall part 22b. Hence, compared to the base wall part 22b, the thick wall part 22a is able to apply a greater load (elastic restoring force) to the liquid L during contraction (during discharge) as shown in FIG. 6. Accordingly, compared to a case where the balloon pump 2 does not include the thick wall part 22a, the discharge pressure of the balloon pump 2 can be increased. In this way, by partially providing the thick wall part 22a to the balloon pump 2, the discharge pressure can be easily adjusted.

As shown in FIG. 3, the thick wall part 22a corresponds to a portion of the wall 22 that includes the axial rib 21. Hence, as shown in FIG. 1, the thick wall part 22a can be arranged along the front-rear direction (axial direction of balloon pump 2). During expansion and contraction as shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, only the axial rib 21 on the lower side of the balloon pump 2 slidably contacts an upper surface of the base material 33. Hence, the sliding resistance during expansion and contraction can be reduced.

The balloon pump 2 is made of PDMS. PDMS has high releasability. Hence, in the case of manufacturing the balloon pump 2 using a molding die, the balloon pump 2 can be improved in shape accuracy. PDMS has high gas permeability. Hence, the balloon pump 2 can be improved in gas permeability. For example, gas mixed in the liquid L inside the pump chamber 20 can be degassed via the wall 22.

As shown in FIG. 1, the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment includes the upstream connector 5. The upstream connector 5 is attachable and detachable with respect to the supply part 30 and the tube 90a shown in FIG. 2. Hence, the work of connecting and separating the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 to and from the liquid supply device 90 can be easily performed.

As shown in FIG. 1, the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment includes the downstream connector 6. The downstream connector 6 is attachable and detachable with respect to the discharge part 31 and the tube 91a shown in FIG. 2. Hence, the work of connecting and separating the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 to and from the biomimetic system device 91 can be easily performed.

Second Embodiment

A fluid pressure-feeding device of the present embodiment differs from the fluid pressure-feeding device of the first embodiment in that both ends in the front-rear direction of a balloon pump are fixed, that flow paths do not include a common part, and that a base material exhibits a single-layer structure. Here, only the differences will be described.

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view in the front-rear direction of the fluid pressure-feeding device of the present embodiment. The balloon pump 2 in the contracted state is shown in a solid line, and the balloon pump 2 in the expanded state is shown in a dashed-dotted line. Portions corresponding to those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

As shown in FIG. 7, the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 includes, in addition to the balloon connector (supply side balloon connector) 4 on the supply part 30 side, a balloon connector (discharge side balloon connector) 7 on the discharge part 31 side. A rear end (one axial end) of the balloon pump 2 is connected and fixed to the balloon connector 4. The balloon connector 7 is made of resin and is arranged in the pump accommodation part 32. The balloon connector 7 is arranged on a rear surface (outer surface on pump accommodation part 32 side) of the discharge part 31. A front end (other axial end) of the balloon pump 2 is connected and fixed to the balloon connector 7. The balloon connector 7 connects the discharge part 31 (flow path P) and the balloon pump 2 (pump chamber 20). The balloon connector 7 is attachable and detachable with respect to the discharge part 31 and the balloon pump 2. The flow path unit 3 is integrally arranged with the balloon pump 2 via the balloon connectors 4 and 7.

The flow path P includes sections p1 to p4 and p12 to p15. Specifically, sections p14 to p15 are arranged instead of sections p5 to p11 shown in FIG. 2 above. The flow path P is arranged extending across the flow path unit 3, the balloon connectors 4 and 7, and the upstream connector 5 and the downstream connector 6 shown in FIG. 1. That is, the flow path unit 3, the balloon connectors 4 and 7, the upstream connector 5, and the downstream connector 6 each include a portion of the flow path P.

Specifically, section p1 is arranged in the upstream connector 5 shown in FIG. 1, sections p2 to p3 are arranged in the supply part 30, section p4 is arranged in the balloon connector 4, section p14 is arranged in the balloon connector 7, sections p12 and p15 are arranged in the discharge part 31, and section p13 is arranged in the downstream connector 6 shown in FIG. 1.

The flow path P includes the supply path P1 and the discharge path P2. The supply path P1 includes sections p1 to p4. Sections p1 to p4 are connected in the order of section p1, section p2, section p3, and section p4 from the upstream side toward the downstream side. The discharge path P2 includes sections p12 to p15. Sections p12 to p15 are connected in the order of section p14, section p15, section p12, and section p13 from the upstream side toward the downstream side.

Section p14 is included in the concept of “micro flow path part” of the present disclosure. Section p14 has smaller flow path cross-sectional area than the other sections, namely sections p1 to p4, p12 to p13, and p15. Hence, the flow path cross-sectional area of section p14 is smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of the supply path P1. Accordingly, the liquid L (refer to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6) is less likely to flow through the discharge path P2 that includes section p14 than through the supply path P1 that does not include section p14. Thus, the discharge path P2 has a greater pressure loss than the supply path P1.

Among sections p1 to p4 and p12 to p15, sections p1 to p4 are a supply-dedicated part exclusively for the supply path P1. Sections p12 to p15 are a discharge-dedicated part exclusively for the discharge path P2. Section p14 is a pressure loss difference setting part that sets a pressure loss difference between the supply path P1 and the discharge path P2. No common part shared by the supply path P1 and the discharge path P2 is set in the flow path P.

As shown in a solid line in FIG. 7, in the contracted state, the balloon pump 2 is floating above the upper surface of the base material 33. That is, the balloon pump 2 is in a suspended state. As shown in a dashed-dotted line in FIG. 7, in the expanded state, the balloon pump 2 is in contact with the upper surface of the base material 33.

The fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment and the fluid pressure-feeding device of the first embodiment have similar effects regarding the portions having common configurations. In the contracted state, the balloon pump 2 is maintained in the suspended state between the supply part 30 and the discharge part 31. The balloon pump 2 is separated from the base material 33 and the adjacent member (for example, liquid supply device 90 and biomimetic system device 91). Hence, interference between the balloon pump 2 and the base material 33 or the adjacent member can be suppressed. During a transition from the contracted state to the expanded state, the balloon pump 2 expands mainly in the up-down and left-right directions (axially perpendicular direction). Hence, the balloon pump 2 can be prevented from slidably contacting the upper surface of the base material 33 or the adjacent member in the front-rear direction (axial direction).

No flow path P is arranged in the base material 33. Hence, the base material 33 can be simplified in layer structure. The base material 33 can be reduced in plate thickness. On the wall 22 of the balloon pump 2, no axial rib 21 shown in FIG. 3 is arranged. Hence, the balloon pump 2 can be simplified in structure.

Third Embodiment

A fluid pressure-feeding device of the present embodiment differs from the fluid pressure-feeding device of the first embodiment in that a circumferential rib is arranged on an outer surface of a wall of a balloon pump. Here, only the difference will be described.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the balloon pump of the fluid pressure-feeding device of the present embodiment. Portions corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 8, a circumferential rib (circular rib) 23 is arranged on the outer surface of the wall 22 of the balloon pump 2. The circumferential rib 23 extends in an annular direction centered on a central axis (axis extending in front-rear direction) of the balloon pump 2. The circumferential ribs 23 has an endless annular shape.

In the wall 22 of the balloon pump 2, a portion where the circumferential rib 23 is arranged is the thick wall part 22a. A portion where no circumferential rib 23 is arranged is the base wall part 22b. Due to the arrangement of the circumferential rib 23, the thick wall part 22a has a greater wall thickness than the base wall part 22b.

The fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment and the fluid pressure-feeding device of the first embodiment have similar effects regarding the portions having common configurations. According to the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment, the thick wall part 22a extending in the circumferential direction can be arranged in the wall 22. By arranging multiple circumferential ribs 23 on the wall 22 to be spaced apart at predetermined intervals and in parallel in the axial direction, the balloon pump 2 can be contracted in stages. That is, the liquid L can be discharged from the pump chamber 20 in stages.

Fourth Embodiment

A fluid pressure-feeding device of the present embodiment differs from the fluid pressure-feeding device of the first embodiment in that a balloon pump and a supply part of a flow path unit are an integral body. Here, only the difference will be described.

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view in the front-rear direction of the fluid pressure-feeding device of the present embodiment. The balloon pump 2 in the contracted state is shown in a solid line, and the balloon pump 2 in the expanded state is shown in a dashed-dotted line. Portions corresponding to those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

As shown in FIG. 9, the balloon pump 2 and the supply part 30 are an integral body (integrally molded product) made of PDMS. Hence, the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 does not include the balloon connector 4 (section p4) shown in FIG. 2.

The fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment and the fluid pressure-feeding device of the first embodiment have similar effects regarding the portions having common configurations. According to the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment, the balloon pump 2 and the supply part 30 (a portion of flow path unit 3) are an integral body. Hence, relative positioning accuracy between the balloon pump 2 and the flow path unit 3 can be improved. Since the balloon connector 4 is not needed, the number of parts of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 can be reduced. There is no joint between the balloon pump 2 and the supply part 30. Hence, the sealing performance between the pump chamber 20 and section p3 (common part) can be improved.

<Others>

The embodiments of the fluid pressure-feeding device of the present disclosure have been described above. However, embodiments are not particularly limited to the above embodiments. It is also possible to implement various modifications and improvements that can be made by those skilled in the art.

A method for setting a pressure loss difference (in detail, a pressure loss difference in which the discharge path P2 has a relatively greater pressure loss than the supply path P1) between the supply path P1 and the discharge path P2 is not particularly limited. FIG. 10A illustrates a transparent top view of a base material of a fluid pressure-feeding device according to another embodiment (No. 1). FIG. 10B illustrates a transparent top view of a base material of a fluid pressure-feeding device according to another embodiment (No. 2). The discharge path P2 is shown as seen through the base material 33. Portions corresponding to those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

As shown in FIG. 10A, section p8 of the discharge path P2 includes multiple base width parts p8a and multiple small width parts p8b. The small width part p8b is included in the concept of “micro flow path part” of the present disclosure. The base width part p8a and the small width part p8b are alternately arranged in the front-rear direction. The flow path cross-sectional area of the base width part p8a matches the flow path cross-sectional area of a supply path (not shown). On the other hand, the flow path cross-sectional area of the small width part p8b is smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of the base width part p8a and the supply path. Hence, the discharge path P2 has a greater pressure loss than the supply path.

As shown in FIG. 10B, the discharge path P2 including section p8 has constant flow path cross-sectional area. The flow path cross-sectional area of the discharge path P2 matches the flow path cross-sectional area of a supply path (not shown). Section p8 extends in a rectangular wave shape. That is, compared to a case where section p8 extends in a straight line shape, section p8 is extended in flow path length. Hence, the discharge path P2 has a greater flow path length than the supply path. Accordingly, the discharge path P2 has a greater pressure loss than the supply path. Section p8 extends in a rectangular wave shape. That is, section p8 extends in a complex shape. Hence, the discharge path P2 has a more complex flow path shape (more curved parts) than the supply path. Accordingly, the discharge path P2 has a greater pressure loss than the supply path.

In this way, the method for setting a pressure loss difference between the supply path P1 and the discharge path P2 is not particularly limited. It is sufficient to set the pressure loss difference between the supply path P1 and the discharge path P2 by adjusting one or more selected from flow path cross-sectional area, flow path length, flow path shape (shape in flow path length direction, flow path cross-sectional shape, and shape or surface roughness of flow path inner surface) and the like.

For example, an orifice may be arranged in the discharge path P2 without arranging an orifice in the supply path P1. The supply path P1 may extend in a straight line shape, and the discharge path P2 may extend in a curved line shape (such as sine wave shape or rectangular wave shape). The supply path P1 may extend in a curved line shape, and the discharge path P2 may extend in a curved line shape (curved line shape having a larger curvature (sharper bend) than supply path P1). While the inner surface of the supply path P1 may be made smooth, unevenness may be provided on the inner surface of the discharge path P2. The inner surface of the supply path P1 and the inner surface of the discharge path P2 may be different in material.

FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view in the front-rear direction of a fluid pressure-feeding device of another embodiment (No. 3). The balloon pump 2 in the contracted state is shown in a solid line, and the balloon pump 2 in the expanded state is shown in a dashed-dotted line. Portions corresponding to those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

As shown in FIG. 11, the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 is accommodated in a case 8, except for section p1 (upstream connector 5 shown in FIG. 1) and section p13 (downstream connector 6 shown in FIG. 1). The case 8 includes a case body 80 and a cover 81. The case body 80 has a bottomed box shape that opens downward. The cover 81 seals an opening of the case body 80. The pump accommodation part 32 is arranged in an internal space of the case 8. The pump accommodation part 32 and the biomimetic system device 91 are connected by a return flow path 91b.

When the biomimetic system device 91 is in use, the liquid L is continuously supplied in small amounts from the discharge path P2 (section p13) of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 to the biomimetic system device 91 via the tube 91a. A waste liquid (used liquid L) used in the biomimetic system device 91 is discharged from the biomimetic system device 91 to the pump accommodation part 32 via the return flow path 91b. That is, the pump accommodation part 32 functions as a waste liquid tank.

The fluid pressure-feeding device 1 of the present embodiment is accommodated in the case 8. Hence, even if the liquid L leaks from the balloon pump 2 (pump chamber 20), the liquid L can be retained in the pump accommodation part 32. Accordingly, leakage of the liquid L to the external environment (for example, inside the incubator) of the case 8 can be suppressed.

The pump accommodation part 32 and the biomimetic system device 91 are connected by the return flow path 91b. The pump accommodation part 32 functions as a waste liquid tank. Hence, there is no need to arrange a separate waste liquid tank in the biomimetic system device 91. Alternatively, the waste liquid tank of the biomimetic system device 91 can be reduced in size.

When the liquid L is supplied to the biomimetic system device 91, the volume of the balloon pump 2, that is, the pump chamber 20, is decreased and the volume of the pump accommodation part 32 is increased by a supply amount of the liquid L. Hence, even if a waste liquid of the same amount as the supply amount returns from the biomimetic system device 91 to the pump accommodation part 32, the waste liquid can be reliably stored in the pump accommodation part 32.

The volume of the pump accommodation part 32 is larger than a maximum volume of the balloon pump 2 in the expanded state, that is, the pump chamber 20. Hence, even if the liquid L in the amount corresponding to a maximum storage amount in the pump chamber 20 returns to the pump accommodation part 32 via the biomimetic system device 91, the entire amount of the liquid L can be reliably stored in the pump accommodation part 32.

The shape, size, position, number arranged, and material (hereinafter collectively referred to as “shape and the like” as appropriate) of members of each of the balloon pump 2, flow path unit 3 (supply part 30, discharge part 31, base material 33), balloon connector 4, upstream connector 5, downstream connector 6, balloon connector 7, and case 8 are not particularly limited.

At least two of these members may be an integral body (single member made by integral molding or the like). For example, “the balloon pump 2 and the supply part 30” may be an integral body. Of course, the balloon pump 2 and the supply part 30 may also be a combined body (composite member integrated by adhesion, joining, fusion bonding, welding, assembly or the like). Similarly, “the balloon pump 2, the supply part 30, and the discharge part 31” or “the balloon pump 2, the supply part 30, the discharge part 31, and the base material 33 (that is, balloon pump 2 and entire flow path unit 3)” may be an integral body or a combined body. A method for manufacturing the balloon pump 2 is not particularly limited. The balloon pump 2 may be manufactured using a molding die or without using a molding die. The same applies to the method for manufacturing the flow path unit 3.

The balloon pump 2 and the supply part 30 of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 shown in FIG. 9 are an integral body (integrally molded product) made of PDMS. Like the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 shown in FIG. 9, the balloon pump 2, the supply part 30, and the discharge part 31 of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 shown in FIG. 7 may be an integral body made of PDMS. In this way, relative positioning accuracy between the balloon pump 2 and the flow path unit 3 can be improved. The balloon connector 4 (section p4) and the balloon connector 7 (section p14) become unneeded. Hence, the number of parts of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 can be reduced. There is no joint between the balloon pump 2 and the supply part 30. Hence, the sealing performance between the pump chamber 20 and section p3 can be improved. Similarly, there is no joint between the balloon pump 2 and the discharge part 31. Hence, the sealing performance between the pump chamber 20 and section p15 can be improved. Since there is no joint throughout the entire length of the flow path P (excluding sections p1 and p13) shown in FIG. 7 (since it is seamless), the sealing performance of the entire flow path P can be improved.

In the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 shown in FIG. 9, the balloon pump 2, the supply part 30, the base material 33, and the discharge part 31 may be an integral body. That is, the balloon pump 2 and the flow path unit 3 (supply part 30, discharge part 31, base material 33) may be an integral body. In this way, the number of parts of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 can be reduced. Since there is no joint throughout the entire length of the flow path P (excluding sections p1 and p13) shown in FIG. 9, the sealing performance of the entire flow path P can be improved. Furthermore, the balloon pump 2, the flow path unit 3, the upstream connector 5 (section p1), and the downstream connector 6 (section p13) may be an integral body. In this way, the number of parts of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 can be reduced. Since there is no joint throughout the entire length of the flow path P shown in FIG. 9, the sealing performance of the entire flow path P can be improved.

Like the case of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 shown in FIG. 9 mentioned above, in the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 shown in FIG. 7, the balloon pump 2, the supply part 30, the base material 33, and the discharge part 31 may be an integral body. That is, the balloon pump 2 and the flow path unit 3 may be an integral body. In this case as well, the number of parts of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 can be reduced. Since there is no joint throughout the entire length of the flow path P (excluding sections p1 and p13) shown in FIG. 7, the sealing performance of the entire flow path P can be improved. Furthermore, the balloon pump 2, the flow path unit 3, the upstream connector 5 (section p1), and the downstream connector 6 (section p13) may be an integral body. In this way, the number of parts of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 can be reduced. Since there is no joint throughout the entire length of the flow path P shown in FIG. 7, the sealing performance of the entire flow path P can be improved.

In the case where the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 is used inside an incubator, materials that do not deform or deteriorate in the environment inside the incubator are preferable for the materials of these members. Examples of the material of the balloon pump 2 include elastomers. Examples of the elastomers include silicone such as PDMS. Examples of the materials of the members other than the balloon pump 2 include resins, elastomers, and metals. Examples of the resins include cyclo olefin polymer (COP), cyclo olefin copolymer (COC), polycarbonate, and acrylic. Examples of the elastomers include silicone such as PDMS.

The shape in flow path length direction, flow path cross-sectional shape, position and the like of the flow path P are not particularly limited. It is sufficient if a pressure loss difference can be set between the supply path P1 and the discharge path P2. The shape in flow path length direction of the flow path P may be a straight line shape, a curved line shape, a shape combining straight lines and curves, or the like. The flow path cross-sectional shape of the flow path P may be polygonal (such as triangular, quadrilateral, or hexagonal), circular (such as true circle or elliptical), semicircular, or the like.

A method for defining the flow path P in the base material 33 is not particularly limited. In the case where the base material 33 has a two-layer structure, the flow path P may be defined by depressing a groove in a lower surface of the second layer 331 on the upper side, and sealing the groove with an upper surface of the first layer 330 on the lower side. Conversely, the flow path P may be defined by depressing a groove in the upper surface of the first layer 330 on the lower side, and sealing the groove with the lower surface of the second layer 331 on the upper side.

In the case where the base material 33 has a three-layer structure, that is, in the case where the base material 33 includes a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer from the lower side toward the upper side, the flow path P may be defined by providing an elongated hole penetrating the second layer in a layer thickness direction, and sealing the elongated hole with the first layer on the lower side and the third layer on the upper side.

In this way, in the case where the base material 33 has a multilayer structure, the flow path P may be defined using layer boundaries. Of course, the base material 33 may have a single-layer structure. In this case, it is sufficient to define a hole-shaped flow path P inside the base material 33.

The position of the upstream connector 5 relative to the supply part 30 is not particularly limited. It is sufficient if the upstream connector 5 is on the outer surface of the supply part 30. The same applies to the position of the downstream connector 6 relative to the discharge part 31. At least one connector among the upstream connector 5, the downstream connector 6, the balloon connector 4 and the balloon connector 7 may not be arranged in the fluid pressure-feeding device 1. At least one of the tube 90a and the tube 91a may not be arranged. For example, a syringe (adjacent member) may be connected directly (without via tube 90a) to the upstream connector 5.

The use of the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 is not particularly limited. The fluid pressure-feeding device 1 is able to continuously supply fluid (liquid, gas) in small amounts. Hence, the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 can be used for drug discovery experiments, medical settings, water supply to animals and plants, liquid fertilizer supply to plants, oxygen supply to aquariums, or the like. The fluid pressure-feeding device 1 is able to supply fluid without a power source. Hence, the fluid pressure-feeding device 1 is suitable for cases where securing a power source is difficult (for example, in the case of conducting experiments simultaneously and in parallel using multiple biomimetic system devices 91, during power outages, or during disasters).