sequencing vector

Abstract

The application provides a sequencing carrier, comprising: a first frame body, the first frame body is provided with a mounting groove, a mounting hole is arranged at the bottom of the mounting groove; a sealing element is arranged at the mounting hole, the sealing element is provided with a first overflow port, and the sealing element and the first frame body are in an integrated structure. The technical scheme of the application can effectively solve the problem in the related art that the sealing element is extruded during the sequencing process, the overflow channel is deformed, and the detection result is affected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of gene sequencing equipment, and more specifically, to a sequencing vector. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, the sequencing vector in a gene sequencer generally includes a lower frame, an upper frame, and a sequencing chip sandwiched between the upper and lower frames. A seal is provided between the lower frame and the flow port of the sequencing chip. The seal can form a flow channel that communicates with the flow port of the sequencing chip so that the detection liquid can flow into the sequencing chip.

[0003] However, the seals in related technologies generally have a main body and two sealing parts connected to both ends of the main body. One of the sealing parts is smaller. During installation, the smaller sealing part is aligned with the mounting hole on the lower frame, causing it to deform under pressure and be inserted into the mounting hole. To ensure a good seal, a large external mechanical load is usually applied to press the sequencing chip against the seal. This can deform the flow channels on the seal, affecting the flow rate of the detection liquid and thus the detection structure.

[0004] Of course, in other feasible implementations, the sealing ring can be placed on the platform, and then the sequencing chip can be placed on the platform so that the reagent inlet and outlet of the sequencing chip are connected to the sealing ring. This approach is prone to crystallization around the sealing ring. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The main objective of this invention is to provide a sequencing vector to solve the problem in related technologies where the sealing element is squeezed during the sequencing process, causing deformation of the flow channel and thus affecting the detection results.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a sequencing vector, comprising: a first frame having an installation groove on the first frame and an installation hole at the bottom of the installation groove; and a sealing member disposed at the installation hole, having a first flow port on the sealing member, the sealing member being integrally formed with the first frame.

[0007] Furthermore, the sealing element includes a main body, a first annular sealing portion disposed at a first end of the main body, and a second annular sealing portion disposed at a second end of the main body. The main body is disposed within a mounting hole, and a first flow port penetrates the main body, the first annular sealing portion, and the second annular sealing portion. The outer diameters of both the first and second annular sealing portions are larger than the outer diameter of the main body.

[0008] Furthermore, the seal also includes a connecting portion connected between the first annular sealing portion and the second annular sealing portion, and a connecting hole is provided at the bottom of the groove, spaced apart from the mounting hole, and the connecting portion is disposed in the connecting hole.

[0009] Furthermore, a recess is provided at the bottom of the groove, the mounting hole is located inside the recess, the first annular sealing part is located inside the recess, a first annular protrusion is provided on the bottom surface of the recess, and a first annular recess is provided on the surface of the first annular sealing part facing the second annular sealing part to accommodate the first annular protrusion.

[0010] Furthermore, the maximum distance D1 between the outer surface of the first annular protrusion and the axis of the mounting hole is less than the minimum distance D2 between the axis of the connecting hole and the mounting hole, and / or the maximum distance D3 between the outer surface of the first annular sealing part and the axis of the mounting hole is greater than the maximum distance D4 between the axis of the connecting hole and the mounting hole.

[0011] Furthermore, a second annular protrusion is provided on the surface of the bottom of the groove facing the second annular sealing part, and a second annular recess is provided on the surface of the second annular sealing part facing the first annular sealing part to accommodate the second annular protrusion.

[0012] Furthermore, the sequencing vector also includes: a second frame, which is disposed in the mounting slot and snapped into connection with the first frame; and a sequencing chip, which is disposed in the mounting slot, with a second flow port connected to the first flow port on the side of the sequencing chip facing the first frame.

[0013] Furthermore, the sequencing chip has a flow channel inside, and there are two seals. The first flow port on one seal forms the first inlet, and the first flow port on the other seal forms the first outlet. The second flow port includes a second inlet and a second outlet. Both the second inlet and the second outlet are connected to the flow channel. The second inlet is connected to the first inlet, and the second outlet is connected to the first outlet.

[0014] Furthermore, the first frame and the second frame are connected by a snap-fit ​​structure, which includes a buckle on the outside of the second frame and a slot at the bottom of the slot, with the buckle snapped into the slot.

[0015] Furthermore, the seal and the first frame are formed by a secondary injection molding process.

[0016] By applying the technical solution of this invention, the seal and the first frame are integrally formed. Since the seal and the first frame are already integrated during processing, there is no need to consider the ease of assembly. The seal and the first frame can fit tightly together, allowing the first frame to provide good support for the seal. Even under pressure, the deformation of the seal is minimal, and the first flow port is less likely to deform, thus affecting the flow rate. Furthermore, because the seal and the first frame can fit tightly together, the sealing performance between them is good. Consequently, only a small force needs to be applied to the seal to ensure sealing performance, and the first flow port of the seal is less likely to deform. Therefore, the technical solution of this application can effectively solve the problem in related technologies where the seal is squeezed during sequencing, causing deformation of the flow channel and affecting the detection results. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0018] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the exploded structure of an embodiment of the sequencing vector according to the present invention is illustrated;

[0019] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a portion of the structure of a sequencing vector;

[0020] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A magnified view of a portion of the structure of the sequencing vector;

[0021] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the sequencing vector from another angle;

[0022] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 A magnified view of point A on the sequencing vector;

[0023] Figure 6 It shows Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the first frame and sealing element of the sequencing vector;

[0024] Figure 7 It shows Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the first frame of the sequencing vector;

[0025] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 A magnified view of point B in the first frame;

[0026] Figure 9 It shows Figure 7 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a portion of the structure of the first frame;

[0027] Figure 10 It shows Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the sealing element of the sequencing vector;

[0028] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the seal;

[0029] Figure 12 It shows Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the seal from another angle;

[0030] Figure 13 It shows Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the second frame of the sequencing vector; and

[0031] Figure 14 It shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the sequencing chip for the sequencing vector.

[0032] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0033] 10. First frame; 111. Bottom of groove; 112. Mounting hole; 113. Connecting hole; 114. Recess; 115. First annular protrusion; 116. Second annular protrusion; 20. Seal; 21. First flow port; 211. First inlet; 212. First outlet; 22. Main body; 23. First annular sealing part; 231. First annular recess; 24. Second annular sealing part; 241. Second annular recess; 25. Connecting part; 30. Second frame; 40. Sequencing chip; 41. Second flow port; 411. Second inlet; 412. Second outlet; 50. Snap-fit ​​structure; 51. Snap-fit; 52. Slot. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present invention or its application or use. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0035] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0036] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0037] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the sequencing vector in this embodiment includes a first frame 10 and a sealing member 20. The first frame 10 is provided with a mounting groove, and the bottom 111 of the mounting groove is provided with a mounting hole 112. The sealing member 20 is disposed at the mounting hole 112, and the sealing member 20 is provided with a first flow port 21. The sealing member 20 and the first frame 10 are integrally formed.

[0038] In this embodiment, the sealing element 20 and the first frame 10 are integrally formed. Since the sealing element 20 and the first frame 10 are already together during processing, there is no need to consider the ease of assembly. The sealing element 20 and the first frame 10 can fit tightly together, allowing the first frame 10 to provide good support for the sealing element 20. Even under pressure, the deformation of the sealing element 20 is minimal, and the first flow port 21 is less likely to deform, thus affecting the flow rate. Furthermore, because the sealing element 20 and the first frame 10 can fit tightly together, the sealing performance between them is good. Consequently, only a small force needs to be applied to the sealing element 20 to ensure sealing performance, and the first flow port 21 of the sealing element 20 is less likely to deform. Therefore, the technical solution of this embodiment can effectively solve the problem in related technologies where the sealing element is squeezed during sequencing, causing deformation of the flow channel and affecting the detection results.

[0039] like Figures 1 to 5 as well as Figures 10 to 12 As shown, in this embodiment, the seal 20 includes a main body 22, a first annular sealing part 23 disposed at a first end of the main body 22, and a second annular sealing part 24 disposed at a second end of the main body 22. The main body 22 is disposed in the mounting hole 112, and the first flow port 21 passes through the main body 22, the first annular sealing part 23, and the second annular sealing part 24. The outer diameter of the first annular sealing part 23 and the outer diameter of the second annular sealing part 24 are both larger than the outer diameter of the main body 22. Since the seal 20 and the first frame 10 are integrally formed, the main body 22 and the mounting hole 112, the first annular sealing part 23 and the corresponding surface on the bottom of the groove 111, and the second annular sealing part 24 and the corresponding surface on the bottom of the groove 111 are all very tightly fitted. The outer diameter of the first annular sealing part 23 and the outer diameter of the second annular sealing part 24 are both larger than the outer diameter of the main body 22. In this way, after the seal 20 is compressed, the first annular sealing part 23 and the second annular sealing part 24 and the bottom of the groove 111 form a stop, and the seal 20 will not move relative to the mounting hole 112. In this way, the first flow port 21 is not easily deformed, so as to ensure the flow rate of the detection liquid in the first flow port 21.

[0040] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown, the seal 20 also includes a connecting portion 25 connecting the first annular sealing portion 23 and the second annular sealing portion 24. A connecting hole 113, spaced apart from the mounting hole 112, is provided at the bottom 111 of the groove, and the connecting portion 25 is disposed within the connecting hole 113. The connecting portion 25 connects the first annular sealing portion 23 and the second annular sealing portion 24. When the first annular sealing portion 23 and the second annular sealing portion 24 are compressed, the connecting portion 25 can pull the first annular sealing portion 23 and the second annular sealing portion 24, effectively preventing deformation of the main body 22 and the first flow port 21 located within the main body 22.

[0041] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown, a recess 114 is provided at the bottom 111 of the groove, and a mounting hole 112 is located within the recess 114. A first annular sealing part 23 is located within the recess 114, and a first annular protrusion 115 is provided on the bottom surface of the recess 114. A first annular recess 231 for accommodating the first annular protrusion 115 is provided on the surface of the first annular sealing part 23 facing the second annular sealing part 24. The first annular protrusion 115 can stop the outer periphery of the first annular sealing part 23, effectively preventing deformation of the main body 22 and the first flow port 21 located within the main body 22 when the first annular sealing part 23 is under pressure.

[0042] like Figure 5 and Figure 9As shown, the maximum distance D1 between the outer surface of the first annular protrusion 115 and the axis of the mounting hole 112 is less than the minimum distance D2 between the axis of the connecting hole 113 and the axis of the mounting hole 112, and the maximum distance D3 between the outer surface of the first annular sealing part 23 and the axis of the mounting hole 112 is greater than the maximum distance D4 between the axis of the connecting hole 113 and the axis of the mounting hole 112. Thus, a stepped structure is formed between the first annular sealing part 23 and the recess 114. When the first annular sealing part 23 is compressed, this stepped structure acts as a stop, making it difficult for the force applied to the first annular sealing part 23 to be transmitted to the main body 22 and the connecting part 25. The first annular sealing part 23 is compressed and undergoes slight deformation, while the main body 22 and the connecting part 25 are less prone to deformation.

[0043] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown, a second annular protrusion 116 is provided on the surface of the bottom 111 of the groove facing the second annular sealing part 24, and a second annular recess 241 is provided on the surface of the second annular sealing part 24 facing the first annular sealing part 23 to accommodate the second annular protrusion 116. The second annular protrusion 116 can stop the outer periphery of the second annular sealing part 24, effectively preventing the deformation of the main body 22 and the first flow port 21 located in the main body 22 when the second annular sealing part 24 is under pressure.

[0044] In this embodiment, the inner surfaces of the first annular protrusion 115 and the second annular protrusion 116 are flush with the surface of the mounting hole 112, so that the first frame 10 can provide good support for the seal 20, thereby ensuring the stability of the shape of the first flow port 21.

[0045] like Figures 1 to 5 as well as Figure 14 As shown, the sequencing vector also includes a second frame 30 and a sequencing chip 40. The second frame 30 is disposed in the mounting slot and snap-fitted to the first frame 10. The sequencing chip 40 is disposed in the mounting slot, and a second flow port 41 communicating with the first flow port 21 is provided on the side of the sequencing chip 40 facing the first frame 10. The second frame 30 and the first frame 10 are snap-fitted together, and the sequencing chip 40 is sandwiched between the second frame 30 and the first frame 10. The sequencing chip 40 is provided with the second flow port 41, and the second flow port 41 can communicate with the first flow port 21. The pre-compression between the seal 20 and the sequencing chip 40 can be achieved by the clamping force between the first frame 10 and the second frame 30, which has the advantage of simple operation. Figure 1 and Figure 7As shown, multiple limiting protrusions are provided on the bottom 111 of the groove. These limiting protrusions can limit the sequencing chip 40. After the sequencing chip 40 is placed into the mounting groove and the second frame 30 is then attached, the sequencing chip 40 can be pressed into the corresponding position, so that the first flow port 21 and the second flow port 41 can be aligned to ensure the smooth progress of subsequent sequencing.

[0046] In this embodiment, since the clamping force required to achieve a seal is smaller, the force acting on the sequencing chip 40 is also smaller, which can prevent the sequencing chip 40 from deforming due to excessive force.

[0047] In this embodiment, since the first frame 10 and the seal 20 are integrally formed, the alignment between the first flow port 21 of the seal 20 and the mounting hole 112 is good, and the limiting protrusion on the bottom 111 of the groove can limit the sequencing chip 40, thereby ensuring that the first flow port 21 and the second flow port 41 can be aligned, thus ensuring the stability of the flow field.

[0048] and specifically, as Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 14 As shown, the sequencing chip 40 has a flow channel inside, and there are two seals 20. The first flow port 21 on one seal 20 forms the first inlet 211, and the first flow port 21 on the other seal 20 forms the first outlet 212. The second flow port 41 includes a second inlet 411 and a second outlet 412. Both the second inlet 411 and the second outlet 412 are connected to the flow channel. The second inlet 411 is connected to the first inlet 211, and the second outlet 412 is connected to the first outlet 212.

[0049] like Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 13 As shown, the first frame 10 and the second frame 30 are connected by a snap-fit ​​structure 50. The snap-fit ​​structure 50 includes a buckle 51 disposed on the outside of the second frame 30 and a slot 52 disposed at the bottom 111 of the groove. The buckle 51 is engaged in the slot 52. The slot 52 is provided with a stop step surface, and the hook at the end of the buckle 51 can extend into the underside of the step surface (see details). Figure 4 This achieves a snap-fit ​​connection between the first frame 10 and the second frame 30, which has the advantages of simple, strong and reliable connection.

[0050] In this embodiment, the seal 20 and the first frame 10 are formed by a secondary injection molding process. This secondary injection molding allows the seal 20 and the first frame 10 to be integrally molded, offering advantages such as simple process and reliable connection between the seal 20 and the first frame 10. Specifically, the first frame 10 is a plastic part, and the seal 20 is an elastic part (e.g., it can be injection-molded liquid silicone rubber (LIMS) or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

[0051] In related technologies, the first frame and the sealing element are independently molded structures that need to be assembled together by adhesive bonding, which places high demands on the manufacturing process. Furthermore, the reliability of the connection between the first frame and the sealing element is difficult to guarantee after long-term storage of the sequencing vector. However, in this embodiment, since the sealing element 20 and the first frame 10 are formed by secondary injection molding, the assembly step is eliminated. The adhesive strength between the sealing element 20 and the first frame 10 is high and the reliability is good; even after long-term storage, the two will not detach.

[0052] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0053] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0054] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this invention.

[0055] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sequencing vector, characterized in that, include: The first frame (10) is provided with a mounting groove, and the bottom (111) of the mounting groove is provided with a mounting hole (112). A sealing element (20) is provided at the mounting hole (112), and a first flow port (21) is provided on the sealing element (20). The sealing element (20) and the first frame (10) are integrally formed. The sealing element (20) includes a main body (22), a first annular sealing part (23) disposed at a first end of the main body (22), and a second annular sealing part (24) disposed at a second end of the main body (22). The main body (22) is disposed in the mounting hole (112). The first flow port (21) passes through the main body (22), the first annular sealing part (23), and the second annular sealing part (24). The outer diameter of the first annular sealing part (23) and the outer diameter of the second annular sealing part (24) are both larger than the outer diameter of the main body (22). The sealing element (20) further includes a connecting part (25) connecting the first annular sealing part (23) and the second annular sealing part (24). The bottom of the groove (111) is provided with a connecting hole (113) spaced apart from the mounting hole (112). The connecting part (25) is disposed in the connecting hole (113). The bottom (111) of the groove is provided with a recess (114), the mounting hole (112) is located in the recess (114), the first annular sealing part (23) is located in the recess (114), the bottom surface of the recess (114) is provided with a first annular protrusion (115), and the surface of the first annular sealing part (23) facing the second annular sealing part (24) is provided with a first annular recess (231) to accommodate the first annular protrusion (115). The maximum distance D1 between the outer surface of the first annular protrusion (115) and the axis of the mounting hole (112) is less than the minimum distance D2 between the axis of the connecting hole (113) and the axis of the mounting hole (112), and the maximum distance D3 between the outer surface of the first annular sealing part (23) and the axis of the mounting hole (112) is greater than the maximum distance D4 between the axis of the connecting hole (113) and the axis of the mounting hole (112).

2. The sequencing vector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the groove (111) is provided with a second annular protrusion (116) on the surface facing the second annular sealing part (24), and the second annular sealing part (24) is provided with a second annular recess (241) on the surface facing the first annular sealing part (23) to accommodate the second annular protrusion (116).

3. The sequencing vector according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sequencing vector also includes: The second frame (30) is disposed in the mounting slot and snapped into connection with the first frame (10); A sequencing chip (40) is disposed in the mounting slot. The sequencing chip (40) has a second flow port (41) on the side facing the first frame (10) that communicates with the first flow port (21).

4. The sequencing vector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The sequencing chip (40) has a flow channel inside. There are two seals (20). The first flow port (21) on one of the seals (20) forms a first inlet (211), and the first flow port (21) on the other seal (20) forms a first outlet (212). The second flow port (41) includes a second inlet (411) and a second outlet (412). The second inlet (411) and the second outlet (412) are both connected to the flow channel. The second inlet (411) is connected to the first inlet (211), and the second outlet (412) is connected to the first outlet (212).

5. The sequencing vector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first frame (10) and the second frame (30) are connected by a snap-fit ​​structure (50). The snap-fit ​​structure (50) includes a buckle (51) disposed on the outside of the second frame (30) and a slot (52) disposed on the bottom (111) of the groove. The buckle (51) is engaged in the slot (52).

6. The sequencing vector according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sealing element (20) and the first frame (10) are formed by secondary injection molding.

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