Horizontal gel electrophoretic separation-online imaging device

Abstract

The invention relates to a horizontal gel electrophoretic separation-online imaging device. The device comprises a device body, and a bottom plate assembly, a horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module and a photographing module are arranged in the device body. The horizontal electrophoresis constant-temperature module comprises a tray assembly, a horizontal electrophoresis constant-temperature assembly, an electrode assembly and a driving assembly. The driving assembly is used for driving the tray assembly to enter and exit from the device body, the horizontal electrophoresis constant-temperature assembly is used for loading horizontal electrophoresis gel, and the electrode assembly is rotationally connected with the horizontal electrophoresis constant-temperature assembly. The photographing module comprises a frame assembly, a camera assembly and a light source assembly. The camera assembly is used for collecting a horizontal electrophoresis gel image, and the light source assembly is arranged on a light path between the camera assembly and the horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module and is used for providing an excitation light source for horizontal electrophoresis gel. Compared with the prior art, the method is suitable for scenes of clinical diagnosis, molecular biology research and the like, and has the advantages of low cost, simplicity and convenience in operation, high detection quality and high stability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of gel electrophoresis technology, and in particular to a horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device. Background Technology

[0002] The most commonly used technique for protein separation and analysis is polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). However, traditional PAGE electrophoresis analysis devices and methods have the following problems, which greatly limit their application scope: (1) The whole process is manual, complicated, labor-intensive and time-consuming: after conventional electrophoresis, the gel needs to be peeled off, fixed and stained for 4-6 hours, and destained and gel imaging analysis for 2-4 hours; (2) The reagent consumption is large and the laboratory is seriously polluted: not only a large amount of electrophoresis buffer and gel are needed, but also more volatile staining and destaining solutions are needed, which causes indoor pollution in the laboratory; (3) Due to manual operation, the staining results can only be used for relative content analysis and cannot be used for quantitative analysis, and the comparability and repeatability of the experiment are poor; (4) Due to manual operation, gel electrophoresis cannot be automated and data traceability cannot be achieved.

[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, some novel protein acrylamide gel electrophoresis separation-online ultraviolet imaging analysis devices have emerged (such as patents CN111812091A and CN116482064A), which can directly perform online imaging analysis without staining and destaining. However, these inventions still have the following problems: 1. Existing devices rely solely on electrophoresis buffer cooling, which cannot maintain a constant temperature for the electrophoresis module during electrophoresis. This not only directly causes a decrease in resolution due to excessive temperature but also compromises the consistency and repeatability of electrophoretic migration; 2. They still employ a traditional vertical pre-cast gel with narrow sample wells (e.g., 0.5-1.5 mm (thickness)). 1. The sample loading depth is large (3.5-5 mm wide) and 15-25 mm deep, making fully automated sample loading design difficult and limiting the development of automation. 2. 400-600 mL of buffer solution still needs to be added and poured before and after electrophoresis, making the operation complex and difficult to automate, while also introducing the risk of buffer leakage and increased costs. 3. Using quartz glass as the imaging glass for the pre-coated gel causes refractive distortion of protein bands and loss of ultraviolet light intensity, reducing resolution and sensitivity, and significantly increases the cost of the pre-coated gel by 3-4 times. These problems still limit the electrophoretic separation of high-requirement biological samples.

[0004] Therefore, while maintaining stain-free imaging technology, it is still necessary to develop a new type of horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device that can achieve constant temperature cooling and high-efficiency operation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the defects of the prior art and provide a horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device.

[0006] The objective of this invention can be achieved through the following technical solutions: This invention provides a horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device, comprising a device body, wherein the device body is provided with a base plate assembly, a horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module and an imaging module; The horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module includes a tray assembly, a horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly, an electrode assembly, and a drive assembly. The drive assembly is used to drive the tray assembly to move in and out of the device body. The horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly is mounted on the tray assembly and is used to load the horizontal electrophoresis gel. The electrode assembly is rotatably connected to the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly and is used to provide power to the horizontal electrophoresis gel. The imaging module includes a frame assembly mounted on the base plate assembly, and a camera assembly and a light source assembly mounted on the frame assembly. The camera assembly is used to acquire images of the horizontal electrophoresis gel within the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly, and the light source assembly is located in the optical path between the camera assembly and the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly and is used to provide an excitation light source to the horizontal electrophoresis gel.

[0007] Furthermore, the horizontal electrophoresis-thermal control assembly includes a cover formed by assembling a fan cover and a fan cover plate. Inside the cover, a dust cover and a high-speed silent fan are installed sequentially at the air inlet position at the bottom of the fan cover. A heat sink with downward-facing fins is installed at the air outlet position at the top of the fan cover. The base plate assembly is provided with an air duct connecting the air outlet and the outside.

[0008] Furthermore, a semiconductor cooling chip is attached to the upper surface of the heat sink, and holes for exposing the semiconductor cooling chip are opened on the fan cover plate. The space between the fan cover plate and the heat sink, excluding the semiconductor cooling chip area, is filled with heat insulation material.

[0009] Furthermore, an insulation base plate and a heat-conducting plate are sequentially mounted on the upper surface of the fan cover plate. The insulation base plate also has holes for exposing the semiconductor cooling chip, and the lower surface of the heat-conducting plate is in direct contact with the upper surface of the semiconductor cooling chip.

[0010] Furthermore, an insulating shell is provided around the heat-conducting plate, and an electrophoresis cavity is formed between the insulating shell and the heat-conducting plate to accommodate the horizontal electrophoresis gel and the solidification gel buffer, and to perform gel electrophoresis under the drive of the electrode assembly.

[0011] Furthermore, the electrode assembly includes an electrode frame and a cathode electrode support and an anode electrode support symmetrically arranged on the electrode frame. The cathode electrode support is equipped with a cathode electrode, and the anode electrode support is equipped with an anode electrode.

[0012] Furthermore, the electrode frame is provided with an electrode frame pivot, and both the electrode frame and the electrode frame pivot are rotatably connected to the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly through a shaft bracket.

[0013] Furthermore, one side of the cathode electrode support and the anode electrode support is provided with a torsion spring for providing a tendency force for the electrode frame to rotate counterclockwise around the electrode frame axis.

[0014] Furthermore, the camera assembly includes a camera body, an adjustment base, and adjustment screws.

[0015] Furthermore, the adjustment base is provided with an angle adjustment ear, which is assembled with the frame assembly to adjust the horizontal angle of the camera body.

[0016] Furthermore, the camera body has adjustment ears on both sides, and the adjustment base has adjustment positioning posts with adjustment springs on the positioning posts; the adjustment screws connect the adjustment ears and the camera body to the positioning posts for adjusting the level of the camera.

[0017] Furthermore, the light source assembly includes a light path cover, a light source assembly mounting bracket, and a light source assembly.

[0018] Furthermore, the optical path cover is disposed on the side of the light source assembly mounting bracket facing the camera assembly.

[0019] Furthermore, the light source group is located on the side of the light source group fixing frame facing the horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module, and the light source group fixing frame and the frame assembly form a closed light source space for installing the light source group.

[0020] Furthermore, the light source group consists of at least one set of ultraviolet light sources arranged in a quadrilateral, and the light emitted by the ultraviolet light sources illuminates the horizontal electrophoresis gel of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly.

[0021] Furthermore, the frame assembly of the imaging module is provided with an electrode loading control mechanism, which is used to control the electrode assembly during the movement of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly into and out of the main body of the device.

[0022] Furthermore, when the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly and the electrode assembly are completely inside the main body of the device, it is in the chamber state. At this time, the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly and the electrode assembly are pressed together and electrophoresis is performed on the horizontal electrophoresis gel.

[0023] Furthermore, when the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly is completely outside the main body of the device, it is in the out-of-chamber state, the electrode loading control mechanism does not contact the electrode assembly, and a vertical angle is formed between the electrode assembly and the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly.

[0024] Furthermore, the electrode loading control mechanism includes an inbound guide assembly, an outbound guide assembly, a guide wheel assembly, a guide spring limiting post, and an electrode loading holding assembly.

[0025] Furthermore, the inbound guide component is used to guide the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic component during its inbound movement, and the outbound guide component is used to guide the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic component during its outbound movement.

[0026] Furthermore, the guide wheel assembly is selectively connected to the inbound guide assembly or the outbound guide assembly, and can contact the electrode assembly during inbound or outbound movement.

[0027] Furthermore, the guide spring limiting post is used to limit the inbound guide assembly during the outbound movement.

[0028] Furthermore, the electrode loading and holding assembly is used to guide the electrode assembly during the loading movement of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly and to press the electrode assembly in the loading state.

[0029] Furthermore, the tray assembly of the horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module is equipped with a control rod assembly for selectively controlling the inbound guide assembly or the outbound guide assembly during the inbound and / or outbound movements of the horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module.

[0030] Furthermore, the inbound guide assembly includes an inbound guide active rod, an inbound transmission rod connected to the inbound guide active rod, and a first reset tension spring for driving the inbound transmission rod to reset. An inbound torsion spring is connected to the top end of the inbound transmission rod.

[0031] Furthermore, the discharge guide assembly includes a discharge guide active rod, a discharge transmission rod connected to the discharge guide active rod, and a second tension spring for driving the discharge transmission rod to reset. A discharge torsion spring is connected to the top end of the discharge transmission rod.

[0032] Furthermore, the guide wheel assembly includes a guide bracket and a front wheel assembly, a rear wheel assembly, a transmission rod, a limiting protrusion, and a guide bracket shaft disposed on the guide bracket.

[0033] Furthermore, when the horizontal electrophoresis-thermal control assembly is in the loading state, the limiting protrusion of the guide wheel assembly is tightly attached to the inner wall of the guide wheel fixing plate of the frame assembly.

[0034] Furthermore, the electrode loading and holding assembly includes holding rollers that can contact the electrode assembly during loading movement and loading state.

[0035] Furthermore, the main body of the device is also equipped with an electronic control module, which specifically includes an electronic control board and an electrophoresis power supply.

[0036] Furthermore, the electrophoresis power supply is electrically connected to the electrode assembly of the horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module to provide power for gel electrophoresis.

[0037] Compared with existing vertical protein gel electrophoresis-online imaging technology, the present invention has the following technical advantages.

[0038] (1) The integrated cooling and temperature control module for horizontal electrophoresis improves electrophoresis resolution and repeatability, laying the foundation for high-precision electrophoretic separation. This invention ingeniously combines a semiconductor cooling chip, a heat dissipation component, and horizontal gel electrophoresis, which can effectively cool and control the temperature of the horizontal electrophoresis gel and remove the generated waste heat. Compared with ordinary SDS-PAGE electrophoresis which relies solely on buffer cooling for temperature control, this cooling and temperature control accuracy reaches 15-20±0.5℃, the electrophoresis temperature is lower, and the resolution is significantly improved; at the same time, the cooling and temperature control accuracy is consistent, the influence of ambient temperature is small, the consistency of protein band electrophoretic migration is good, and the repeatability is high.

[0039] (2) Horizontal electrophoresis structures facilitate sample loading, laying the foundation for automation. The sample loading surface of the loading well is 3-5 mm (length). 4 mm (width), significantly larger than the existing 3-5 mm (length) pre-formed adhesive sample application surface. With a width of 0.5-1.5 mm and the sample well directly exposed, the sample depth is only 0.5-1.5 mm, which is far superior to the existing pre-formed adhesive sample well with a closed perimeter and a sample depth of 15-25 mm. This invention is more likely to support multi-channel pipette sample addition and machine intelligent recognition, significantly improving the ease of operation and the automation adaptability of instruments.

[0040] (3) Avoiding the use of liquid electrophoresis buffer avoids the leakage problem of existing electrophoresis tanks and improves the adaptability of instrument automation. Two 12 mL gel solidification buffers are used to replace the existing 400-600 mL electrophoresis buffer for each use. This not only saves a lot of buffer and waste liquid treatment costs and reduces experimental pollution, but also fundamentally eliminates the risk of electrophoresis tank leakage caused by wear, simplifies technology integration, and provides better adaptability for instrument automation.

[0041] (4) This invention eliminates the need for quartz glass, resulting in higher sensitivity, better resolution, and significantly reduced costs: By eliminating quartz glass, the interference of light refraction and light transmission loss caused by quartz glass are eliminated, which not only improves the resolution of imaging detection but also enhances imaging sensitivity. At the same time, compared with the previous generation of stain-free protein gel electrophoresis online UV imaging technology, the existing technology eliminates expensive quartz glass (accounting for more than 75% of the cost), significantly reducing the cost of electrophoresis pre-coated gels and user expenses.

[0042] (5) This invention is applicable to clinical diagnosis, molecular biology research and other scenarios, and is especially suitable for automated and high-precision electrophoresis detection needs. It has the advantages of low cost, simple operation, high detection quality and strong stability. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Figure 1 This is a frontal overall structural view of the horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the back of the horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention after the outer shell is removed.

[0046] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic control module of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the layout of the base plate assembly of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the electrode assembly of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the camera assembly of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the light source assembly of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in the fully warehouse-entry transition state in Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in the intermediate state of outbound / inbound in Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in the intermediate state of outbound / inbound in Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in the fully outbound transition state in Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 14 The results of online intrinsic fluorescence imaging of denaturing gel electrophoresis of urine protein and a few standard protein samples are presented in this invention.

[0057] Figure 15This invention provides the consistency test results of online intrinsic fluorescence imaging for ADC drug level denaturing gel electrophoresis.

[0058] Explanation of markings in the diagram: 1-Main body of the device; 11-Main casing, 111-Front panel, 1111-Display device, 1112-Status indicator light, 112-Right side panel, 1121-Door, 113-Top panel, 114-Back panel, 1141-Louvre ventilation window, 1142-Power interface, 1143-Network interface, 115-Left side panel, 1151-Power switch, 1152-USB interface, 1153-Air inlet; 2 -Base plate assembly, 21-Base plate, 22-Angle sensor, 23-Adjustable support leg, 24-First fixing strip, 25-Second fixing strip, 26-Air duct; 3-Horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module; 30-Driver components; 31-Tray assembly; 32-Horizontal electrophoresis-Constant temperature component, 320-Fan cover, 3201-Air outlet, 3202-Air inlet, 321-Dust cover, 322-High-speed silent fan, 323-Heat sink, 324-Semiconductor cooling chip, 325-Insulation material, 326-Fan cover plate, 327-Insulation base plate, 328-Heat conduction plate, 329-Insulation shell; 33-Electrode assembly, 331-Electrode frame, 3311-Cathode side reinforcing plate, 3312-Torsion spring, 3313-Electrode frame pivot, 3315-Anode side reinforcing plate, 332-Cathode electrode bracket, 333-Cathode electrode cover, 3341-Cathode electrode, 3342-Anode electrode, 335-Anode electrode bracket, 336-Anode electrode cover, 338-Shaft bracket; 34-Control lever assembly, 341-Control lever, 342-Control lever bracket; 35 - Horizontal electrophoresis gel, 351 - Sample loading well, 352 - Solidification gel buffer; 4-Photo module; 40 - Frame assembly; 401 - Guide wheel fixing plate; 41-Camera assembly, 411-Camera body, 412-Adjustment ear, 413-Adjustment screw, 414-Adjustment spring, 415-Adjustment base, 4151-Adjustment positioning post, 4152-Angle adjustment ear; 42-Light source assembly, 421-Light path cover, 422-Light source group mounting bracket, 423-Light source group; 43 - Electrode loading control mechanism; 431-Inlet guide assembly, 4310-First central shaft, 4311-Inlet guide drive rod, 4312-Inlet guide roller, 4313-First rotating shaft, 4314-Inlet transmission rod, 4315-Reset spring fixing post, 4316-First reset spring, 4317-Second central shaft, 4318-Inlet torsion spring, 4319-Second rotating shaft; 432-Outlet guide assembly, 4320-Outlet guide drive rod, 4321-Third central shaft, 4322-Outlet guide roller, 4323-Outlet transmission rod, 4324-Third rotating shaft, 4325-Fourth central shaft, 4326-Outlet torsion spring, 4327-Reset tension spring fixing plate, 4328-Second reset tension spring; 433-Guide wheel assembly, 4330-Guide bracket shaft, 4331-Guide bracket, 4332-Front wheel assembly, 4333-Rear wheel assembly, 4334-Transmission rod, 4335-Limiting protrusion; 434 - Guide spring limiting post; 435 - Electrode loading and holding assembly; 4350 - Adjustable holding wheel frame; 4351 - Holding roller; 5-Electrical control module, 51-Electrical control board, 52-Electrophoresis power supply. Detailed Implementation

[0059] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. These embodiments are based on the technical solution of the present invention and provide detailed implementation methods and specific operating procedures. However, the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0060] In this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and 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 of the invention; the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance; furthermore, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "connected," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly, for example, they can be fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can be mechanical connections or electrical connections; they can be direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; they can be internal connections between two elements. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0061] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0062] Example 1: This embodiment provides a horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device, specifically including a device body 1, which contains a base plate assembly 2, a horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module 3, and an imaging module 4.

[0063] The horizontal electrophoresis-temperature control module 3 of this embodiment includes a tray assembly 31, a horizontal electrophoresis-temperature control assembly 32, an electrode assembly 33, and a drive assembly 30. The drive assembly 30 is used to drive the tray assembly 31 in and out of the device body 1. The horizontal electrophoresis-temperature control assembly 32 is mounted on the tray assembly 31 and is used to load the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35. The electrode assembly 33 is rotatably connected to the horizontal electrophoresis-temperature control assembly 32 and is used to provide power to the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35.

[0064] The imaging module 4 in this embodiment includes a frame assembly 40 disposed on the base plate assembly 2, and a camera assembly 41 and a light source assembly 42 mounted on the frame assembly 40. The camera assembly 41 is used to acquire images of the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35 within the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32, and the light source assembly 42 is disposed in the optical path between the camera assembly 41 and the horizontal electrophoresis thermostatic assembly 3 and is used to provide an excitation light source to the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35.

[0065] In use, the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35 is first horizontally loaded into the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 outside the main body 1. The solidification gel buffer 352 is then placed and the sample is loaded into the sample well 351. Subsequently, the control drive assembly 30 drives the tray assembly 31 and the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 into the main body 1. During this process, the electrode assembly 33 rotates under restricted conditions until it is fully inside the main body 1, where it engages with the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 and connects to the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35 and the solidification gel buffer 352 for energization. The gel electrophoresis process is conducted under closed conditions within the main body 1. During or after electrophoresis, the sample on the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35 emits fluorescence under the excitation of the light source assembly 42, and images are acquired via the camera assembly 41. When electrophoresis is complete and the sample needs to be removed, the control drive assembly 30 drives the tray assembly 31 and the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 out of the main body 1.

[0066] This embodiment of the horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device integrates high-precision isothermal horizontal electrophoresis with real-time in-situ imaging into a single closed device. It allows for precise control of the cooling temperature, ensuring the horizontal electrophoresis gel remains in a low-temperature, constant-temperature environment within the device throughout the process. This significantly improves protein band resolution and the consistency of electrophoretic mobility. Furthermore, this invention's horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device can automatically perform electrophoretic separation and imaging in a closed state after the electrophoresis gel is pushed into the device, eliminating the need to adjust the gel or imaging component before initiating electrophoresis. This avoids the steps of transferring the gel, manually starting electrophoresis, and focusing and imaging, greatly improving operational efficiency.

[0067] Example 2: This embodiment provides a horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device, specifically including a device body 1, which contains a base plate assembly 2, a horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module 3, and an imaging module 4.

[0068] Compared to Embodiment 1, the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 in this embodiment includes a cover formed by assembling a fan shroud 320 and a fan shroud cover plate 326. Inside the cover, a dust cover 321 and a high-speed silent fan 322 are sequentially installed at the air inlet 3202 at the bottom of the fan shroud 320, and a heat sink 323 with downward-facing fins is installed at the air outlet 3201 at the top of the fan shroud 320. The base plate assembly 2 is provided with an air duct 26 connecting the air outlet 3201 and the outside, used to dissipate the heat generated by the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 during the electrophoresis process.

[0069] In this embodiment, a semiconductor cooling chip 324 is attached to the upper surface of the heat sink 323, and a hole for exposing the semiconductor cooling chip 324 is provided on the fan cover plate 326. The space between the fan cover plate 326 and the heat sink 323, excluding the area of ​​the semiconductor cooling chip 324, is filled with heat insulation material 325.

[0070] In this embodiment, the upper surface of the fan cover plate 326 is sequentially equipped with a heat insulation base plate 327 and a heat conduction plate 328. The heat insulation base plate 327 is also provided with holes for exposing the semiconductor cooling chip 324. The lower surface of the heat conduction plate 328 is in direct contact with the upper surface of the semiconductor cooling chip 324.

[0071] In this embodiment, the heat-conducting plate 328 is surrounded by an insulation shell 329. An electrophoresis cavity is formed between the insulation shell 329 and the heat-conducting plate 328 to accommodate the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35 and the solidified gel buffer 352, and to perform gel electrophoresis under the drive of the electrode assembly 33.

[0072] This embodiment cleverly combines a semiconductor cooling chip 324, a heat dissipation assembly, and horizontal gel electrophoresis. The upper surface (cold surface) of the semiconductor cooling chip 324 is closely attached to the heat-conducting plate 328 to cool the electrophoresis chamber above; the lower surface (hot surface) is closely attached to the heat dissipation plate 323 to dissipate the generated waste heat.

[0073] Compared to ordinary SDS-PAGE electrophoresis which relies solely on buffer cooling for temperature control, the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat component 32 in this embodiment can achieve a cooling temperature control accuracy of (15-20) ± 0.5℃, resulting in lower electrophoresis temperatures and significantly improved resolution. At the same time, the cooling temperature control accuracy is consistent, the influence of ambient temperature is minimal, the electrophoretic mobility is consistent, the repeatability is high, and the high-voltage electrophoresis time is shortened.

[0074] Example 3: This embodiment provides a horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device, specifically including a device body 1, which contains a base plate assembly 2, a horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module 3, and an imaging module 4.

[0075] Compared with Embodiment 2, the electrode assembly 33 in this embodiment includes an electrode frame 331 and a cathode electrode support 332 and an anode electrode support 335 symmetrically arranged on the electrode frame 331. A cathode electrode 3341 is detachably mounted on the cathode electrode support 332, and an anode electrode 3342 is detachably mounted on the anode electrode support 335.

[0076] In this embodiment, the electrode frame 331 has an electrode frame pivot 3313 on one side of the frame where the cathode electrode support 332 and the anode electrode support 335 are located. The electrode frame 331 and the electrode frame pivot 3313 are rotatably connected to the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 through the shaft support 338.

[0077] In this embodiment, a torsion spring 3312 is provided on one side of the cathode electrode support 332 and / or the anode electrode support 335 to provide a tendency force for the electrode frame 331 to rotate counterclockwise around the electrode frame rotation axis 3313.

[0078] When electrode assembly 33 and horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 are completely outside the main body 1 of the device, electrode assembly 33 is basically in a vertical state, and at this time, electrode assembly 33 does not apply power to gel electrophoresis. As electrode assembly 33 and horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 are gradually inserted into the chamber, electrode assembly 33, restricted by the chamber, will rotate around the shaft support 338 under the cooperation of the rotating shaft 3313 around the electrode frame and the torsion spring 3312, with the included angle gradually decreasing until it is completely inserted into the main body 1 and engages with horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32. After electrode assembly 33 engages with horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32, cathode electrode 3341 and anode electrode 3342 respectively come into contact with the solidified gel buffer 352 in horizontal electrophoresis gel 35 and have a certain pre-pressure, thereby conducting the electrode and gel circuit and realizing electrophoresis.

[0079] After electrophoretic separation is completed, as the electrode assembly 33 and the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly 32 gradually exit the chamber, the angle between the electrode assembly 33 and the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly 32 gradually increases until the electrode assembly 33 is fully opened after it has completely exited the chamber.

[0080] Example 4: This embodiment provides a horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device, specifically including a device body 1, which contains a base plate assembly 2, a horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module 3, and an imaging module 4.

[0081] Compared with Embodiment 1, the camera assembly 41 in this embodiment includes a camera body 411, an adjustment base 415, and an adjustment screw 413. The adjustment base 415 is provided with an angle adjustment ear 4152, which is assembled with the frame assembly 40 to adjust the horizontal angle of the camera body 411.

[0082] In this embodiment, the camera body 411 has adjustment ears 412 on both sides, and the adjustment base 415 has an adjustment positioning post 4151, with an adjustment spring 414 sleeved on the positioning post 4151. The adjustment screw 413 connects the adjustment ears 412 together with the camera body 411 to the positioning post 4151 for adjusting the level of the camera.

[0083] The light source assembly 42 in this embodiment includes an optical path cover 421, a light source group mounting bracket 422, and a light source group 423. The optical path cover 421 is disposed on the side of the light source group mounting bracket 422 facing the camera assembly 41, and the light source group 423 is disposed on the side of the light source group mounting bracket 422 facing the horizontal electrophoresis temperature control module 3. After the light source group mounting bracket 422 is assembled with the frame assembly 40, it forms a closed light source space for mounting the light source group 423.

[0084] In this embodiment, the light source group 423 consists of at least one group of ultraviolet light sources arranged in a quadrilateral shape, and the light emitted by the ultraviolet light sources illuminates the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35 of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32.

[0085] In this embodiment, the camera assembly 41 achieves dual adjustment of the camera's horizontality and angle through the ingenious cooperation of the adjustment base 415, adjustment screw 413, adjustment spring 414, and angle adjustment lug 4152, ensuring that the camera lens optical axis is perpendicular to the gel plane. Furthermore, the arrayed ultraviolet light source provides uniform and stable excitation illumination to ensure the accuracy of fluorescence signal quantification.

[0086] Example 5: This embodiment provides a horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device, specifically including a device body 1, which contains a base plate assembly 2, a horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module 3, and an imaging module 4.

[0087] Compared with Embodiment 1, the frame assembly 40 of the imaging module 4 in this embodiment is provided with an electrode loading control mechanism 43, which is used to control the electrode assembly 33 during the movement of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 into and out of the main body 1 of the device. The electrode loading control mechanism 43 includes an inlet guide assembly 431, an outlet guide assembly 432, a guide wheel assembly 433, a guide spring limiting post 434, and an electrode loading holding assembly 435.

[0088] When the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly 32 and the electrode assembly 33 are completely inside the main body 1 of the device, the device is in the in-chamber state. At this time, the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly 32 and the electrode assembly 33 are pressed together and electrophoresis is performed on the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35. When the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly 32 is completely outside the main body 1 of the device, the device is in the out-of-chamber state. The electrode loading control mechanism 43 is not in contact with the electrode assembly 33, and a vertical angle is formed between the electrode assembly 33 and the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly 32.

[0089] Specifically, the inlet guide assembly 431 in this embodiment is used to guide the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 during its inlet movement. The inlet guide assembly 431 includes an inlet guide active rod 4311, an inlet transmission rod 4314 connected to the inlet guide active rod 4311, and a first reset spring 4316 for driving the inlet transmission rod 4314 to reset. An inlet torsion spring 4318 is connected to the top end of the inlet transmission rod 4314.

[0090] The discharge guide assembly 432 in this embodiment is used to guide the discharge movement of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32. The discharge guide assembly 432 includes a discharge guide active rod 4320, a discharge transmission rod 4323 connected to the discharge guide active rod 4320, and a second tension spring 4328 for driving the discharge transmission rod 4323 to reset. A discharge torsion spring 4326 is connected to the top end of the discharge transmission rod 4323.

[0091] In this embodiment, the guide wheel assembly 433 is selectively connected to the inlet guide assembly 431 or the outlet guide assembly 432, and can contact the electrode assembly 33 during inlet or outlet movement. The guide wheel assembly 433 includes a guide bracket 4331 and a front wheel assembly 4332, a rear wheel assembly 4333, a transmission rod 4334, a limiting protrusion 4335, and a guide bracket shaft 4330 disposed on the guide bracket 4331. When the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 is in the inlet state, the limiting protrusion 4335 of the guide wheel assembly 433 is in close contact with the inner wall of the guide wheel fixing plate 401 of the frame assembly 40.

[0092] In this embodiment, the guide spring limiting post 434 is used to limit the inbound guide assembly 431 during the outbound movement.

[0093] The electrode loading and holding assembly 435 of this embodiment is used to guide the electrode assembly 33 during the insertion movement of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly 32 and to press the electrode assembly 33 into place during the insertion state. The electrode loading and holding assembly 435 includes a holding roller 4351 that can contact the electrode assembly 33 during the insertion movement and in the insertion state.

[0094] In this embodiment, the tray assembly 31 of the horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module 3 is provided with a control rod assembly 34, which is used to selectively control the inbound guide assembly 431 or the outbound guide assembly 432 when the horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module 32 moves into and / or out of the container.

[0095] Example 6: As mentioned above, existing gel electrophoresis separation-online ultraviolet imaging analysis devices have the following problems: (1) Relying solely on the electrophoresis buffer to cool down the area cannot achieve constant temperature control during electrophoresis, resulting in a decrease in the resolution of the bands and a reduction in the consistency and repeatability of electrophoretic migration.

[0096] (2) The sample dispensing port of the PAGE pre-formed gel based on vertical imaging is too small (1 mm × 4 mm) and too deep (15-20 mm), making it difficult to realize the automated sample dispensing function.

[0097] (3) A large amount of electrophoresis buffer (400-600 mL) is required, which not only leads to the risk of leakage, but also increases the complexity of the instrument's automation and reduces its reliability.

[0098] (4) The existing ultraviolet camera's imaging side gel glass must use quartz glass or high-performance plastic that can transmit ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet camera must pass through the quartz glass to image the gel strip, which will cause transmission loss and refraction interference, reducing the sensitivity and resolution of the imaging system. In addition, disposable quartz glass or plastic is very expensive.

[0099] To address the aforementioned issues, this embodiment specifically provides a horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device, which includes a device body 1. The device body 1 comprises a base plate assembly 2 and a main outer shell 11. The device body 1 is equipped with a horizontal electrophoresis temperature control module 3, an imaging module 4, and an electronic control module 5.

[0100] The main housing 11 of this embodiment is composed of a front panel 111, a back panel 114, a top panel 113, a right side panel 112, and a left side panel 115. The front panel 111 is equipped with a display device 1111 and status indicator lights 1112. The right side panel 112 has a door 1121 for the horizontal electrophoresis temperature control module 3 to enter and exit the main housing 11. The left side panel 115 has a power switch 1151, a USB interface 1152, and an air inlet 1153. The back panel 114 has a louvered ventilation window 1141, a power interface 1142, and a network interface 1143.

[0101] The base plate assembly 22 in this embodiment includes a base plate 21 and an angle sensor 22 and an air duct 26 disposed on the base plate 21. A first fixing strip 24 and a second fixing strip 25 are respectively provided on both sides of the base plate 21 for connection to the inner wall of the main housing 11. Adjustable feet 23 are provided at each of the four corners of the bottom surface of the base plate 21.

[0102] The horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module 3 of this embodiment includes a motor drive assembly 30, a tray assembly 31, a horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly 32, an electrode assembly 33, and a control rod assembly 34. The motor drive assembly 30 provides power for the tray assembly 31 to move in and out of the chamber. The horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly 32 and the control rod assembly 34 are both fixed on the tray assembly 31. The electrode assembly 33 provides power for the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35, and the electrode assembly 33 is controlled by the electrode loading control assembly 43 during the movement of the horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module 3 in and out of the chamber. The power of the electrode loading control assembly 43 is provided by the control rod assembly 34.

[0103] Specifically, in this embodiment, the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 is horizontally positioned to accommodate the horizontal electrophoresis gel 35 (horizontal pre-formed gel) and its curing gel buffer solution 352. The horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 specifically includes a fan shroud 320, a dust cover 321, a high-speed silent fan 322, a heat sink 323, a semiconductor cooling chip 324, thermal insulation material 325, a fan shroud cover plate 326, an insulation base plate 327, a heat-conducting plate 328, and an insulation shell 329. The high-speed silent fan 322 and the dust cover 321 are fixed at the bottom air inlet 3202 of the fan shroud 320, and the heat sink 323 is fixed with its fins facing downwards at the air outlets 3201 on both sides of the upper part of the fan shroud 320. Both air outlets 3201 are connected to the air duct 26 on the base plate 21 to dissipate heat generated by the horizontal electrophoresis thermostatic module 3 during electrophoresis. The lower surface of the thermoelectric cooler 324 is placed close to the upper surface of the heat sink 323, with thermal grease filling the middle and thermal insulation material 325 attached around its perimeter. The thermal insulation material 325 fills the entire space of the heat sink 323 except for the area of ​​the thermoelectric cooler 324. A fan cover plate 326 covers the entire thermal insulation material 325, and the fan cover plate 326 has a hole in the middle that exposes only the thermoelectric cooler 324. A thermal insulation base plate 327 and a heat-conducting plate 328 are sequentially mounted on the fan cover plate 326. The thermal insulation base plate 327 also has a hole that exposes only the thermoelectric cooler 324. The lower surface of the heat-conducting plate 328 is in direct contact with the upper surface of the thermoelectric cooler 324, and the middle is filled with thermal grease. Thermal insulation shells 329 are distributed around the heat-conducting plate 328. The top of the thermal insulation shells 329 has holes of a specific size, and together with the heat-conducting plate 328, they form an electrophoresis chamber for mounting horizontal electrophoresis gel 35 and performing gel electrophoresis separation.

[0104] This embodiment innovatively employs a thermostatic control module with an integrated semiconductor cooling chip, combined with horizontal gel electrophoresis. Compared to ordinary SDS-PAGE electrophoresis which relies solely on buffer cooling for temperature control, this embodiment achieves a cooling temperature control accuracy of (15-20) ± 0.5℃, resulting in lower electrophoresis temperatures, significantly improved resolution, consistent cooling temperature control accuracy, minimal impact from ambient temperature, good consistency in electrophoretic mobility, high repeatability, and shorter high-voltage electrophoresis time.

[0105] In addition, the sample application surface of sample application well 351 is 3-5 mm (length). 4 mm (width), significantly larger than the existing 3-5 mm (length) pre-formed adhesive sample application surface. With a width of 0.5-1.5 mm and the sample well 351 directly exposed, the sample dispensing depth is only 0.5-1.5 mm, which is far superior to the 15-25 mm sample dispensing depth of existing pre-formed adhesive sample wells with sealed sides. This invention is easier to support multi-channel pipettes, significantly improves operational convenience and instrument automation adaptability.

[0106] Furthermore, this embodiment uses two 12 mL solidification gel buffer 352 tubes to replace the existing 400-600 mL electrophoresis buffer each time. This not only saves a lot of buffer and waste liquid treatment costs and reduces experimental pollution, but also fundamentally eliminates the inherent leakage risk of commonly used electrophoresis tanks, simplifies automation integration, and provides high adaptability for the fully automated design of the instrument.

[0107] The electrode assembly 33 of this embodiment includes an electrode frame 331, a cathode electrode support 332, a cathode electrode 3341, an anode electrode 3342, an anode electrode support 335, a cathode electrode cover 333, and an anode electrode cover 336. The cathode electrode support 332 and the anode electrode support 335 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the electrode frame 331. The electrode frame 331 also has a cathode-side reinforcing plate 3311 on the side near the cathode electrode support 332, and an anode-side reinforcing plate 3315 on the side near the anode electrode support 335.

[0108] In this embodiment, a torsion spring 3312 is provided within the electrode assembly 33, giving the electrode assembly 33 a tendency to rotate counterclockwise around the electrode frame rotation axis 3313. The torsion spring 3312 can be located near the cathode-side reinforcing plate 3311, or near the anode-side reinforcing plate 3315, or simultaneously near both the cathode-side reinforcing plate 3311 and the anode-side reinforcing plate 3315. The cathode electrode 3341 and the anode electrode 3342 are designed to be easily detached from and installed on the cathode electrode support 332 and the anode electrode support 335. Furthermore, the materials constituting the cathode electrode 3341 and the anode electrode 3342 can be any conductive material, not limited to graphite, inert metals, etc. Both the electrode frame 331 and the electrode frame rotation axis 3313 are rotatably connected to the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 via a shaft support 338.

[0109] The control lever assembly 34 in this embodiment includes a control lever bracket 342 and a control lever mounted on the control lever bracket 342. The electrode loading control assembly 43 is located on the path of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 moving in and out of the chamber, and the power of the electrode loading control assembly 43 is provided by the control lever assembly 34.

[0110] The imaging module 4 in this embodiment includes a frame assembly 40, a camera assembly 41, a light source assembly 42, and an electrode loading control assembly 43 mounted on the frame assembly 41. The camera assembly 41 is used to acquire images of the horizontal pre-formed gel 35 within the horizontal electrophoresis thermostatic module 3, and the light source assembly 42 is located in the optical path between the camera assembly 41 and the horizontal electrophoresis thermostatic module 3 to provide the original excitation light source.

[0111] The camera assembly 41 in this embodiment includes a camera body 411, an adjustment ear 412, an adjustment screw 413, an adjustment spring 414, and an adjustment base 415. The adjustment screw 413 connects the adjustment ear 412 and the camera body 411 to the adjustment positioning post 4151 of the adjustment base 415 via the adjustment spring 414, for adjusting the level of the camera. The adjustment base 415 is provided with an angle adjustment ear 4152, which, after cooperating with the structure on the frame assembly 40, can be used to adjust the horizontal angle of the camera body 411.

[0112] The light source assembly 42 in this embodiment includes a light source mounting bracket 422, a light source assembly 423 disposed on the side of the light source mounting bracket 422 facing the horizontal electrophoresis temperature control module 3, and an optical path cover 421 disposed on the side of the light source mounting bracket 422 facing the camera assembly 41. After the light source mounting bracket 422 is assembled with the frame assembly 40, it forms a closed light source space for mounting the light source assembly 423. The light source assembly 423 is composed of four sets of ultraviolet light sources arranged in a quadrilateral. The light emitted by the light sources shines on the gel 35 inside the horizontal electrophoresis temperature control module 3, and the angle between the light rays and the horizontal axis is fixed.

[0113] The vertical imaging module 41 and its light source assembly 42 in this embodiment are designed to create conditions for horizontal gel electrophoresis and its vertical intrinsic fluorescence imaging, and also provide prerequisites for the design of open-structure, single-layer matrix-supported horizontal electrophoresis gels. By eliminating the interference of quartz glass on the refraction, distortion, and transmission loss of light in different zones, not only is the resolution of imaging detection improved, but the sensitivity of the imaging system is also enhanced. Furthermore, the open-structure horizontal gel creates key conditions for fully automated parallel sample loading design, a problem that traditional vertical plate pre-formed gels cannot overcome. In addition, the elimination of expensive pre-formed quartz glass significantly reduces the cost of electrophoresis pre-formed gels and user expenses.

[0114] The electrode loading control component 43 in this embodiment includes an inlet guide component 431, an outlet guide component 432, a guide wheel assembly 433, a guide spring limiting post 434, and an electrode loading holding component 435.

[0115] The inlet guide assembly 431 of this embodiment includes an inlet guide active rod 4311, an inlet transmission rod 4314, an inlet torsion spring 4318, and a first return spring 4316. The inlet guide active rod 4311 and the inlet transmission rod 4314 are rotatably connected around a first rotating shaft 4313. One end of the first return spring 4316 is fixed to a return spring fixing post 4315, and the other end is connected to the middle of the inlet transmission rod 4314. One end of the inlet torsion spring 4318 is connected to the top end of the inlet transmission rod 4314 via a second rotating shaft 4319.

[0116] The dispensing guide assembly 432 of this embodiment includes a dispensing guide active rod 4320, a dispensing transmission rod 4323, a dispensing torsion spring 4326, and a second return spring 4328. The dispensing guide active rod 4320 is rotatably connected to a third central shaft 4321 mounted on the frame assembly 40. The end of the dispensing transmission rod 4323 is rotatably connected to the dispensing torsion spring 4326 via a third rotating shaft 4324.

[0117] The guide wheel assembly 433 in this embodiment includes a front wheel assembly 4332, a rear wheel assembly 4333, a guide bracket 4331, a limiting protrusion 4335, a transmission rod 4334, and a guide bracket shaft 4330.

[0118] The electrode loading and holding assembly 435 of this embodiment includes an adjustable holding wheel frame 4350 and a holding roller 4351 mounted on the adjustable holding wheel frame 4350.

[0119] The electronic control module 5 in this embodiment includes an electronic control board 51, an electrophoresis power supply 52, and a display device 1111. The electronic control board 51 is used for power distribution, motion control, and image acquisition and processing of the entire machine, and interacts with the user through the display device 1112. The electrophoresis power supply 52 is used to provide the power required for gel electrophoresis separation of the electrode assembly 33. This electronic control part is a conventional technical means and is not the focus of this application, so it will not be described in detail here.

[0120] The coordinated operation of the horizontal electrophoresis-temperature control assembly 32, electrode assembly 33, control rod assembly 34, and electrode loading control assembly 43 in this embodiment is as follows: (1) When the horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module 3 is in the chambering state and has not made any chambering movement, the limiting protrusion 4335 of the guide wheel assembly 433 is pressed against the inner wall of the guide wheel fixing plate 401 due to the action of the chambering torsion spring 4318 on the transmission rod 4334 of the guide wheel assembly 433; at the same time, the electrode assembly 33 is controlled by the holding roller 4351 of the electrode loading holding assembly 435, and the bottom of the holding roller 4351 is pressed against the right end of the electrode assembly 33 to counteract the counterclockwise rotation tendency force applied by the torsion spring 3312 to the electrode assembly 33, and maintain the loading state of the electrode assembly 33.

[0121] (2) When the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic module 3 moves out of the chamber, the control rod assembly 34 and the electrode assembly 33 follow the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32 to the right. Figure 10 After moving to a certain position, the right end of the electrode assembly 33 abuts against the front wheel assembly 4332 of the guide wheel assembly 433, causing the guide wheel assembly 433 to rotate counterclockwise around the guide bracket shaft 4330. This causes the transmission rod 4334 of the guide wheel assembly 433 to be pressed into the torsion spring 4318 and rotate to... Figure 11 The state of the guide wheel assembly 433 causes the rear wheel assembly 4333 of the guide wheel assembly 433 to simultaneously apply force to the electrode assembly 33.

[0122] As the outgoing movement proceeds, the ingoing guide roller 4312 of the ingoing guide active rod 4311 disengages from the control rod 341 of the control rod assembly 34. Under the action of the return spring 4316, the ingoing guide active rod 4311 is driven by the ingoing transmission rod 4314 to rotate counterclockwise around the first central axis 4310 until the reset is completed. At the same time, the ingoing torsion spring 4318 rotates clockwise around the second central axis 4317 to the guide spring limit post 434, and the ingoing torsion spring 4318 releases the force on the transmission rod 4334 of the guide wheel assembly 433.

[0123] As the ejection motion proceeds, the ejection guide roller 4322 of the ejection guide assembly 432 rotates counterclockwise under the action of the control rod 341. This rotation, transmitted through the ejection transmission rod 4323, causes the ejection torsion spring 4326 to rotate clockwise around the fourth central axis 4325, applying a clockwise rotational force to the transmission rod 4334 of the guide wheel assembly 433, thus guiding the ejection into the... Figure 11 The state.

[0124] As the ejection process proceeds, the electrode assembly 33 rotates counterclockwise around the electrode frame axis 3313 under the action of the torsion spring 3312 and the guide wheel assembly 433. Figure 12 The force exerted by the guide wheel assembly 433 on the electrode assembly 33 comes from the force exerted by the outlet torsion spring 4326 on the transmission rod 4334. Furthermore, the front wheel assembly 4332 and the rear wheel assembly 4333 of the guide wheel assembly 433 simultaneously apply force to the electrode assembly 33, thereby guiding the electrode assembly 33.

[0125] As the ejection motion proceeds, the upper part of the guide bracket 4331 of the guide wheel assembly 433 contacts the lower side of the guide wheel fixing plate 401 and stops rotating. The electrode assembly 33 gradually disengages from the rear wheel assembly 4333, while the front wheel assembly 4332 continues to guide the electrode assembly 33.

[0126] As the ejection motion proceeds, the electrode assembly 33 disengages from the front wheel assembly 4332 and rotates entirely under the control of the torsion spring 3312. Figure 13 The process continues until the horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module 3 completes the exit action. Simultaneously, due to the action of the control lever 341 on the rollers 4322 of the exit guide assembly 432, the exit torsion spring 4326 maintains its action on the transmission rod 4334 of the guide wheel assembly 433, and the guide wheel assembly 433 remains... Figure 13 The state.

[0127] (3) When the horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module 3 moves into the chamber, the control rod assembly 34 and the electrode assembly 33 follow the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly 32 to the left.

[0128] like Figure 13Electrode assembly 33 first contacts the front wheel assembly 4332 of guide wheel assembly 433. The direction of the force exerted on electrode assembly 33 by the front wheel assembly 4332 gradually changes from right to right and downward. Subsequently, the rear wheel assembly 4333 contacts electrode assembly 33 and begins to guide, causing the guide wheel assembly to rotate clockwise around the guide bracket shaft 4330. At the same time, the transmission rod 4334 compresses the torsion spring 4326 and enters... Figure 12 state.

[0129] As the loading process proceeds, guide wheel assembly 433 enters... Figure 11 State. Then, the ejection guide assembly 432 gradually disengages from the control lever 341, causing the ejection torsion spring 4326 to release the force on the drive rod 4334.

[0130] As the loading process proceeds, the loading guide assembly 431 is gradually controlled by the control lever 341, causing the loading torsion spring 4318 to apply a clockwise rotational force to the transmission rod 4334.

[0131] As the loading and unloading motion proceeds, the force exerted by the guide wheel assembly 433 on the anti-electrode assembly 33 torsion spring 3312 is gradually taken over by the electrode loading retaining assembly 435. Due to the action of the loading and unloading torsion spring 4318, the rear wheel assembly 4333 first disengages from the electrode assembly 33. The guide wheel assembly 433 rotates clockwise as the right end of the electrode assembly 33 moves to the left until the limiting protrusion 4335 contacts the guide wheel fixing plate 401.

[0132] As the insertion movement proceeds, the electrode assembly 33 disengages from the front wheel assembly 4332 until the insertion action is completed. At the same time, due to the action of the control lever 341, the insertion guide assembly 431 is kept in a state of force application with the guide wheel assembly 433 and the transmission rod 4334. At this time, the force of the torsion spring 3312 of the electrode assembly 33 is completely taken over and held by the holding roller 4351 of the electrode loading and holding assembly 435.

[0133] This embodiment innovatively solves the problem of manual electrode placement and the need for additional weights in traditional horizontal electrophoresis processes by using an inlet / outlet chamber structure composed of an electrode loading control mechanism 43, an electrode assembly 33, and a horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly 32. This allows for fully automated operation. Furthermore, the electrode assembly 33 can be equipped with a closed structure for special samples to ensure the temperature and humidity of the gel electrophoresis environment, thereby improving the electrophoresis effect.

[0134] Based on the successful construction of the horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device in this embodiment, the present invention uses the horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device for experimental verification. Figure 14-15As shown, the horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device based on this embodiment successfully achieved electrophoretic separation and fluorescence imaging of test samples (urine protein, ADC drugs) in multiple channels, with excellent separation effect and clear and obvious imaging. Therefore, the horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device of this invention is suitable for clinical diagnosis, molecular biology research, and other scenarios, and is particularly suitable for automated, high-precision electrophoresis detection needs, with advantages such as low cost, simple operation, high detection quality, and strong stability.

[0135] The above description of the embodiments is provided to enable those skilled in the art to understand and use the invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made to these embodiments, and the general principles described herein can be applied to other embodiments without inventive effort. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and any improvements and modifications made by those skilled in the art based on the disclosure of the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention should be within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device, comprising a device body (1), characterized in that, The main body (1) of the device is provided with a base plate assembly (2), a horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module (3) and a photography module (4). The horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module (3) includes a tray assembly (31), a horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly (32), an electrode assembly (33), and a drive assembly (30); the drive assembly (30) is used to drive the tray assembly (31) to enter and exit the device body (1), the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly (32) is mounted on the tray assembly (31) and is used to load the horizontal electrophoresis gel (35), and the electrode assembly (33) is rotatably connected to the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly (32) and is used to provide power to the horizontal electrophoresis gel (35); The imaging module (4) includes a frame assembly (40) disposed on the base plate assembly (2) and a camera assembly (41) and a light source assembly (42) mounted on the frame assembly (40); the camera assembly (41) is used to acquire images of the horizontal electrophoresis gel (35) in the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly (32), and the light source assembly (42) is disposed in the optical path between the camera assembly (41) and the horizontal electrophoresis thermostatic module (3) and is used to provide an excitation light source to the horizontal electrophoresis gel (35).

2. The horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The horizontal electrophoresis-thermal control assembly (32) includes a cover formed by assembling a fan cover (320) and a fan cover plate (326). Inside the cover, a dust cover (321) and a high-speed silent fan (322) are installed in sequence at the air inlet (3202) at the bottom of the fan cover (320). A heat sink (323) with downward-facing fins is installed at the air outlet (3201) at the top of the fan cover (320). The base plate assembly (2) is provided with an air duct (26) connecting the air outlet (3201) and the outside. The upper surface of the heat sink (323) is attached with a semiconductor cooling chip (324), and the fan cover plate (326) has holes for exposing the semiconductor cooling chip (324). The space between the fan cover plate (326) and the heat sink (323), excluding the area of ​​the semiconductor cooling chip (324), is filled with heat insulation material (325).

3. The horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The upper surface of the fan cover plate (326) is sequentially equipped with a heat insulation base plate (327) and a heat conduction plate (328). The heat insulation base plate (327) is also provided with holes for exposing the semiconductor cooling chip (324). The lower surface of the heat conduction plate (328) is in direct contact with the upper surface of the semiconductor cooling chip (324). The heat-conducting plate (328) is surrounded by an insulating shell (329), and an electrophoresis chamber is formed between the insulating shell (329) and the heat-conducting plate (328) to accommodate the horizontal electrophoresis gel (35) and the solidified gel buffer (352), and to perform gel electrophoresis under the drive of the electrode assembly (33).

4. The horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrode assembly (33) includes an electrode frame (331) and a cathode electrode support (332) and an anode electrode support (335) symmetrically arranged on the electrode frame (331). The cathode electrode support (332) is equipped with a cathode electrode (3341), and the anode electrode support (335) is equipped with an anode electrode (3342). The electrode frame (331) is provided with an electrode frame rotating shaft (3313), and both the electrode frame (331) and the electrode frame rotating shaft (3313) are rotatably connected to the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly (32) through the shaft bracket (338); One side of the cathode electrode support (332) and the anode electrode support (335) is provided with a torsion spring (3312) for providing a tendency force for the electrode frame (331) to rotate counterclockwise around the electrode frame pivot (3313).

5. The horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The camera assembly (41) includes a camera body (411), an adjustment base (415), and an adjustment screw (413). An angle adjustment ear (4152) is provided on the adjustment base (415). The angle adjustment ear (4152) is assembled with the frame assembly (40) to adjust the horizontal angle of the camera body (411). The camera body (411) has adjustment ears (412) on both sides, and the adjustment base (415) has adjustment positioning posts (4151) and adjustment springs (414) are provided on the positioning posts (4151); the adjustment screws (413) connect the adjustment ears (412) together with the camera body (411) to the positioning posts (4151) for adjusting the level of the camera.

6. The horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light source assembly (42) includes a light path cover (421), a light source group fixing frame (422), and a light source group (423). The optical path cover (421) is disposed on the side of the light source assembly bracket (422) facing the camera assembly (41); The light source group (423) is located on the side of the light source group fixing frame (422) facing the horizontal electrophoresis constant temperature module (3). After the light source group fixing frame (422) and the frame assembly (40) are assembled, they form a closed light source space for installing the light source group (423). The light source group (423) consists of at least one group of ultraviolet light sources arranged in a quadrilateral, and the light emitted by the ultraviolet light sources shines on the horizontal electrophoresis gel (35) of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly (32).

7. The horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The frame assembly (40) of the photographing module (4) is provided with an electrode loading control mechanism (43), which is used to control the electrode assembly (33) during the movement of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly (32) into and out of the main body (1) of the device. When the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly (32) and the electrode assembly (33) are completely inside the main body (1) of the device, they are in the chamber state. At this time, the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly (32) and the electrode assembly (33) are pressed together and electrophoresis is performed on the horizontal electrophoresis gel (35). When the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly (32) is completely outside the main body (1) of the device, it is in the out-of-chamber state. The electrode loading control mechanism (43) does not contact the electrode assembly (33), and a vertical angle is formed between the electrode assembly (33) and the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly (32).

8. The horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The electrode loading control mechanism (43) includes an inlet guide assembly (431), an outlet guide assembly (432), a guide wheel assembly (433), a guide spring limiting post (434), and an electrode loading holding assembly (435). The inbound guide assembly (431) is used to guide the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly (32) when it is inbound, and the outbound guide assembly (432) is used to guide the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostatic assembly (32) when it is outbound. The guide wheel assembly (433) is selectively connected to the inbound guide assembly (431) or the outbound guide assembly (432), and can contact the electrode assembly (33) during inbound or outbound movement; The guide spring limiting post (434) is used to limit the inbound guide assembly (431) during the outbound movement; The electrode loading and holding assembly (435) is used to guide the electrode assembly (33) during the insertion movement of the horizontal electrophoresis-thermostat assembly (32) and to press the electrode assembly (33) in the insertion state. The tray assembly (31) of the horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module (3) is provided with a control rod assembly (34) for selectively controlling the inbound guide assembly (431) or the outbound guide assembly (432) when the horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module (32) moves into and / or out of the container.

9. A horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The inlet guide assembly (431) includes an inlet guide active rod (4311), an inlet transmission rod (4314) connected to the inlet guide active rod (4311), and a first reset spring (4316) for driving the inlet transmission rod (4314) to reset. An inlet torsion spring (4318) is connected to the top end of the inlet transmission rod (4314). The discharge guide assembly (432) includes a discharge guide active rod (4320), a discharge transmission rod (4323) connected to the discharge guide active rod (4320), and a second tension spring (4328) for driving the discharge transmission rod (4323) to reset. The top end of the discharge transmission rod (4323) is connected to a discharge torsion spring (4326). The guide wheel assembly (433) includes a guide bracket (4331) and a front wheel assembly (4332), a rear wheel assembly (4333), a transmission rod (4334), a limiting protrusion (4335), and a guide bracket shaft (4330) disposed on the guide bracket (4331); when the horizontal electrophoresis-thermal control assembly (32) is in the chambering state, the limiting protrusion (4335) of the guide wheel assembly (433) is in close contact with the inner wall of the guide wheel fixing plate (401) of the frame assembly (40); The electrode loading and holding assembly (435) includes a holding roller (4351) that can contact the electrode assembly (33) during loading and loading.

10. The horizontal gel electrophoresis separation-online imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body (1) of the device is also provided with an electrical control module (5), which specifically includes an electrical control board (51) and an electrophoresis power supply (52). The electrophoresis power supply (52) is electrically connected to the electrode assembly (33) of the horizontal electrophoresis thermostat module (3) to provide power for gel electrophoresis.

Images