A film sealing and converting integrated temperature control device and a film sealing and converting method

Abstract

The application relates to a sealing film conversion integrated temperature control device and a sealing film conversion method. The sealing film conversion integrated temperature control device comprises a rack, a mounting frame, a film cutting mechanism, a film rolling mechanism, a tool groove, an upper heating block and a lower heating block which are mounted on the rack. The upper heating block is connected with the mounting frame through an elastic guide assembly and can move up and down relative to the mounting frame. A first driving mechanism driving end is located above the upper heating block and is used for limiting the up and down stroke of the upper heating block. The film cutting mechanism is fixed on the mounting frame and located around the upper heating block. A second driving mechanism driving end is connected with the mounting frame and drives the mounting frame to move up and down. The lower heating block is fixed on the rack and located below the mounting frame. The tool groove is located above the lower heating block. A third driving mechanism is in transmission connection with the tool groove and drives the tool groove to move forward and backward relative to the lower heating block. The film rolling mechanism is used for bearing a film body and driving the film body to move between the upper heating block and the tool groove. The upper heating block and the lower heating block are respectively electrically connected with a temperature control system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion, specifically to an integrated temperature control device and method for sealing and conversion. Background Technology

[0002] Gene methylation is an important epigenetic modification, and its detection is crucial in cancer research, developmental biology, and disease diagnosis. Current mainstream methylation detection methods, such as the bisulfite conversion method, require prolonged incubation of gene samples with chemical reagents at high temperatures to distinguish between methylated and unmethylated cytosine. Existing technologies typically employ the following schemes: 1. Standalone PCR instrument / thermal cycler. The reaction takes place inside the PCR plate. The heated lid of the PCR instrument applies pressure and heat to the top of the PCR plate to prevent liquid condensation and evaporation. However, this requires removing the sample from the automated workstation, manually placing it into the PCR instrument, and then removing it again after completion, adding manual steps and introducing risks of contamination and error.

[0003] 2. Automated workstations with thermal cycling modules. High-end workstations integrate thermal cycling modules, but PCR plates need to be heat-sealed or capped first. The heat-sealing film is usually permanently bonded to the PCR plate under high temperature and pressure. After transformation, an additional film tearing or breaking step is required to continue the subsequent process, which increases complexity and may lead to sample contamination or loss due to improper operation.

[0004] The main problems with existing technologies are: the lack of a solution that can simultaneously complete high-temperature reactions within an integrated device, effectively prevent evaporation / condensation, and automatically and non-destructively remove the cover for subsequent operations. Furthermore, existing devices are typically technologically limited, unable to simultaneously meet the demands of rapid thermal cycling and prolonged temperature control, and cannot flexibly adapt to reaction plates of different sizes and volumes, such as deep-well plates, greatly restricting their versatility and application scope. Moreover, existing biological experiments require separate heating equipment or additional membrane rupture steps, resulting in complex processes, low automation, and risks of human error and sample contamination. Different processes / stages require multiple devices and instruments to complete separately, increasing equipment space and cost, and also leading to complex processes and long waiting times. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In order to solve one or more technical problems existing in the prior art, the present invention provides an integrated temperature control device and sealing conversion method for sealing conversion.

[0006] The technical solution of the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: The present invention provides an integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion, including a frame and a mounting frame, a film cutting mechanism, a film winding mechanism, a tooling slot for holding tooling, an upper heating block, a lower heating block, a first driving mechanism, a second driving mechanism, and a third driving mechanism mounted on the frame. The upper heating block is connected to the mounting frame through an elastic guide component and can move up and down relative to the mounting frame. The driving end of the first driving mechanism is located above the upper heating block and is used to limit the up and down stroke of the upper heating block. The film cutting mechanism is fixed on the mounting frame and located around the upper heating block. The driving end of the second driving mechanism is connected to the mounting frame and drives the mounting frame to move up and down. The lower heating block is fixed on the frame and located below the mounting bracket. The tooling slot is located above the lower heating block. The third drive mechanism is connected to the tooling slot and drives the tooling slot to move back and forth relative to the lower heating block. The film winding mechanism is used to carry the film body and drive the film body to move between the upper heating block and the tooling slot. The upper heating block and the lower heating block are electrically connected to the temperature control system. The temperature control system is used to control the temperature of the upper heating block in the conversion mode to be within a first preset temperature range, to control the temperature of the upper heating block in the sealing mode to be within a second preset temperature range, and to control the temperature of the lower heating block in the conversion mode to be within a third preset temperature range; the second preset temperature range > the first preset temperature range > the third preset temperature range.

[0007] The beneficial effects of the present invention are: by controlling the temperature of the upper heating block and the lower heating block, and through reasonable structural settings, the present invention realizes the two processes of conversion and sealing on a single device, and can respectively complete two working modes: sealing heating without cutting the film and sealing and cutting the film.

[0008] Based on the above technical solution, the present invention can be further improved as follows.

[0009] Furthermore, the mounting frame includes a support frame, a connecting frame, a first guide post, and a second guide post. The support frame is slidably mounted on the machine frame. The support frame has a horizontally arranged support frame. Multiple first guide posts and second guide posts are movably sleeved on the support frame. A first spring is sleeved on the first guide post, and a second spring is sleeved on the second guide post. The lower end of the first guide post is fixedly connected to the connecting frame, and the lower end of the second guide post is fixedly connected to the upper heating block. The lower end of the first spring is connected to the connecting frame, and the lower end of the second spring is connected to the upper heating block. The second spring and the second guide post serve as the elastic guiding assembly. The upper heating block passes through the connecting frame, the first driving mechanism passes through the support frame, and the film cutting mechanism is fixed below the support frame and can pass through the connecting frame.

[0010] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further solution is that by setting the first guide post and the second guide post, the upper heating block can move within a set range, thereby realizing the switching between the two modes of conversion and sealing.

[0011] Furthermore, the film cutting mechanism includes multiple film cutting blades, which are respectively fixed below the support frame and enclosed to form an annular cylindrical structure. The annular cylindrical structure is spaced around the upper heating block.

[0012] The advantage of adopting the above-mentioned further solution is that by setting multiple film cutting blades, it is convenient to cut the entire film.

[0013] Furthermore, a plurality of connecting frames are fixed below the support frame, and a cutting blade is fixed on each connecting frame.

[0014] The advantage of adopting the above-mentioned further solution is that the cutting blade can be fixed below the support frame through the connecting frame.

[0015] Furthermore, the tooling slot includes a first connecting arm, a second connecting arm, and a third connecting arm. The two ends of the second connecting arm are fixedly connected to one end of the first connecting arm and one end of the third connecting arm, respectively. The first connecting arms are spaced apart on the left side of the lower heating block, the second connecting arms are spaced apart on the front side of the lower heating block, and the third connecting arm is spaced apart on the right side of the lower heating block. First front and rear limiting plates are respectively provided above the front and rear ends of the first connecting arm. A first side limiting plate is provided above the side of the first connecting arm away from the third connecting arm. Second front and rear limiting plates are respectively provided above the front and rear ends of the third connecting arm. A second side limiting plate is provided above the side of the third connecting arm away from the first connecting arm. The two first front and rear limiting plates, the two second front and rear limiting plates, the first side limiting plate and the second side limiting plate together form a trough for holding the tooling.

[0016] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further solution is that by setting the first front and rear limit plates, the second front and rear limit plates, the first side limit plate and the second side limit plate, the tooling can be limited.

[0017] Furthermore, the tooling slot is slidably engaged with the machine frame via a front and rear guide mechanism. The front and rear guide mechanism includes a third guide post and a guide cylinder. The guide cylinder is fixed on the machine frame and arranged front and rear. The third guide post is slidably sleeved inside the guide cylinder. The front end of the third guide post is fixedly connected to the front end of the tooling slot via a connecting plate.

[0018] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further solution is that by setting up front and rear guide mechanisms, it is convenient to guide the tooling slot during its forward and backward movement.

[0019] Furthermore, the upper surface of the front end of the lower heating block is provided with a guide protrusion, and the upper surface of the rear end of the lower heating block is provided with a support protrusion. A tooling limiting groove for supporting the tooling is formed between the guide protrusion and the support protrusion, and the bottom of the tooling limiting groove is higher than the bottom of the tooling groove.

[0020] Furthermore, the third drive mechanism includes a drive unit, a bracket, a belt drive assembly, a gear, a first rack, and a second rack. The bracket is mounted on the frame and can slide back and forth. The drive unit is mounted on the bracket and is connected to the gear via the belt drive assembly. A first rack extending back and forth is fixed on the frame. A second rack extending back and forth is fixed on one side of the tooling slot. The second rack is located above the first rack. The gear meshes with the first rack and the second rack, respectively.

[0021] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further solution is that by setting gears, a first rack and a second rack, the tooling slot can be driven to move back and forth.

[0022] Furthermore, it also includes a tooling fixture adapted to be contained within the tooling slot. The tooling fixture has a receiving slot for placing the reaction plate, and the front and rear side walls of the receiving slot are provided with clearance openings for the robotic arm.

[0023] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further solution is that by setting up tooling, the tooling can be replaced to adapt to reaction plates of different specifications, thereby improving versatility.

[0024] The present invention also provides a sealing conversion method, which is implemented using an integrated temperature control device for sealing conversion as described above, and includes the following steps: In conversion mode: the temperature control system is activated to heat the upper heating block and the lower heating block respectively, so that the upper heating block is maintained in the first preset temperature range and the lower heating block is maintained in the third preset temperature range; The tooling slot is moved forward from the frame using a third drive mechanism. The tooling slot contains a tooling. A robot arm places a reaction plate into the tooling slot. Then, the third drive mechanism moves the tooling slot backward into the frame. The tooling is supported on the lower heating block. Under the action of the film winding mechanism, there is a sealing membrane between the tooling and the upper heating block. Adjust the drive end of the first drive mechanism to extend to the limit position and abut against the upper heating block to limit the upper heating block. At this time, the lower surface of the upper heating block protrudes from the lower end of the mounting bracket by a first preset distance and from the lower end of the film cutting mechanism by a second preset distance. The second drive mechanism drives the mounting frame to move the upper heating block downward, so that the upper heating block abuts against and presses down the membrane between the tooling and the upper heating block, so that the membrane is sealed and pressed against the upper surface of the reaction plate. At this time, the upper heating block and the lower heating block clamp the tooling and the reaction plate, and the conversion process begins. After the conversion is completed, the temperature control system is turned off, and the second drive mechanism drives the mounting bracket to move the upper heating block upward. The membrane is removed from the upper surface of the reaction plate. The membrane winding mechanism is used to remove a section of the membrane used for conversion, and a new section of membrane is moved and placed between the tooling and the upper heating block for sealing. In sealing mode: the temperature control system is activated to heat the upper heating block, keeping it within the second preset temperature range; Adjust the drive end of the first drive mechanism to extend to the limit position and abut against the upper heating block to limit the upper heating block. At this time, the lower surface of the upper heating block protrudes from the lower end of the mounting bracket by a first preset distance and from the lower end of the film cutting mechanism by a second preset distance. The second drive mechanism drives the mounting frame to move the upper heating block downward, so that the upper heating block abuts against and presses down the membrane between the tooling and the upper heating block, so that the membrane is thermally welded to the upper surface of the reaction plate; The drive end of the first drive mechanism is retracted to its limit position. At this time, the upper heating block is unrestricted and moves upward. The second drive mechanism continues to drive the mounting frame to move the film cutting mechanism downward. When the film cutting mechanism moves downward until its lower end protrudes from the lower surface of the upper heating block, the film cutting is completed. The film body is detached from the film winding mechanism and sealed on the reaction plate, completing the sealing process.

[0025] The beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: The sealing and conversion method of the present invention, by controlling the temperature of the upper heating block and the lower heating block and by setting a reasonable structure, realizes the two processes of conversion and sealing on a set of equipment, and can respectively complete the two working modes of sealing and heating without cutting the film and sealing and cutting the film. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the main structure of the integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion according to the present invention; Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion of the present invention. Figure 1 ; Figure 3 for Figure 2 Enlarged structural diagram of section A in the middle; Figure 4 for Figure 2 Enlarged structural diagram of section B in the middle; Figure 5This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a portion of the integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion according to the present invention; Figure 6 for Figure 5 Enlarged structural diagram of section C; Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion of the present invention. Figure 2 ; Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion of the present invention. Figure 3 ; Figure 9 This is a side view of the integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion according to the present invention.

[0027] The attached diagram lists the components represented by each number as follows: 100. Frame; 101. Support frame; 102. Support frame; 103. Connecting frame; 104. First guide post; 105. Second guide post; 106. Upper heating block; 107. First drive mechanism; 108. Second drive mechanism; 109. First spring; 110. Second spring; 111. Guide cylinder; 112. Slide rail; 113. Abutment flange block; 200. Film cutting knife; 201. Connecting frame; 300. Film winding mechanism; 400. First connecting arm; 401. Second connecting arm; 402. Third connecting arm; 403. First front and rear limiting plates; 404. Second front and rear limiting plates; 405. First side limiting plate; 406. Second side limiting plate; 407. Tooling; 408. Lower heating block; 409. Guide protrusion; 410. Support protrusion; 411. Tooling limiting groove; 412. Third guide post; 413. Connecting plate; 415. Robot arm clearance opening; 416. Tooling groove; 500. Drive unit; 501. Bracket; 502. Belt; 503. Drive pulley; 504. Driven pulley; 505. Gear; 506. First rack; 507. Second rack; 508. Slider; 600, reaction plate. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The principles and features of the present invention are described below. The examples given are only for explaining the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0029] Example 1 like Figures 1-9As shown, this embodiment of an integrated temperature control device for sealing and converting film includes a frame 100 and a mounting frame, a film cutting mechanism, a film winding mechanism 300, a tooling slot 416 for holding tooling 407, an upper heating block 106, a lower heating block 408, a first driving mechanism 107, a second driving mechanism 108, and a third driving mechanism mounted on the frame 100. The upper heating block 106 is connected to the mounting frame via an elastic guide assembly and can move up and down relative to the mounting frame. The driving end of the first driving mechanism 107 is located above the upper heating block 106 and is used to limit the up and down stroke of the upper heating block 106. The film cutting mechanism is fixed on the mounting frame and located around the upper heating block 106. The driving end of the second driving mechanism 108 is connected to the mounting frame and drives the mounting frame to move up and down. The lower heating block 408 is fixed on the frame 100 and located below the mounting bracket. The tooling groove 416 is located above the lower heating block 408. The third driving mechanism is connected to the tooling groove 416 and drives the tooling groove 416 to move back and forth relative to the lower heating block 408. The film winding mechanism 300 is used to carry the film body and drive the film body to move between the upper heating block 106 and the tooling groove 416. The upper heating block 106 and the lower heating block 408 are electrically connected to the temperature control system. The temperature control system is used to control the temperature of the upper heating block 106 in the conversion mode to be within a first preset temperature range, to control the temperature of the upper heating block 106 in the sealing mode to be within a second preset temperature range, and to control the temperature of the lower heating block 408 in the conversion mode to be within a third preset temperature range; the second preset temperature range > the first preset temperature range > the third preset temperature range.

[0030] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the upper surface of the front end of the lower heating block 408 is provided with a guide protrusion 409, and the upper surface of the rear end of the lower heating block 408 is provided with a support protrusion 410. A tooling limiting groove 411 for supporting the tooling 407 is formed between the guide protrusion 409 and the support protrusion 410. The bottom of the tooling limiting groove 411 is higher than the bottom of the tooling groove 416, so that after the tooling enters the tooling limiting groove 411, it is supported on the lower heating block 408, and not on the tooling groove 416, thus avoiding the tooling groove 416 from bearing the downward pressure force. Since the tooling limiting groove 411 is a movable mechanism with a cantilever, it cannot bear heavy loads, and the downward pressure force during the sealing conversion process is very large. Therefore, transferring the force to the lower heating block 408 fixed on the frame 100 can protect the tooling limiting groove 411. The guide protrusion has ramps on both the front and rear sides. By setting the guide protrusion and the support protrusion, the guide protrusion can guide the tooling into the warehouse. The guide protrusion and the support protrusion work together to limit the tooling.

[0031] A further embodiment of this invention includes a tooling 407 adapted to be contained within the tooling slot 416. The tooling 407 has a receiving slot for placing the reaction plate 600, and the front and rear side walls of the receiving slot are provided with robot arm clearance openings 415.

[0032] In this embodiment, fixture 407 is used to hold reaction plate 600 (deep-well plate or PCR plate), providing positioning for the reaction plate 600 and also conducting heat downwards to heat the bottom of the deep-well plate. Fixture slot 416 is a station for holding fixture 407, which can extend and retract into and out of the chamber. It has a limit function to restrict the fixture within a set range, ensuring it remains in a fixed position after each entry and exit, facilitating gripping and sealing. Upper heating block 106 compacts from above and provides top heating. In the conversion process, compaction is for sealing the deep-well plate, while in the sealing process, heating allows the membrane to melt and fuse with the PCR plate to achieve the sealing function. Lower heating block 408 heats fixture 407 from below and provides support for fixture 407. The film winding mechanism 300 in this embodiment can be constructed using common structures such as a drive wheel, film winding roller, guide roller, and tension roller. Combined with sterilization equipment and position sensors, it can realize functions such as film movement, sterilization, and recycling, ensuring that the film moves horizontally between the upper heating block 106 and the tooling groove 416, thus guaranteeing subsequent sealing conversion and sealing. The film winding mechanism 300 is driven by the drive wheel and pulls the plastic film along a set path. After each conversion or sealing process, the film is pulled forward a set distance. There is a black block at regular intervals along the edge of the film. The sensor uses the color blocks to determine whether the film is in place. During the recycling process, the film is sterilized by ultraviolet light in an ultraviolet disinfection chamber. In each sealing or conversion process, the film driven by the film winding mechanism 300 seals the reaction plate. To prevent reagent contamination, the film is wound a certain distance after each use and removed. The location where the film is recycled can be sterilized by ultraviolet light.

[0033] In this embodiment, the upper heating block 106, the lower heating block 408, and the temperature control system work together to precisely control the temperature and ensure the reaction proceeds. The high temperature range of the upper heating block is larger than that of the lower heating block, which can prevent sample contamination caused by condensation on the sealing film during the constant temperature reaction stage, and also complete the high temperature sealing.

[0034] In this embodiment, the first drive mechanism 107 can be a stepper motor connected to a lead screw and nut mechanism via a synchronous belt to achieve extension and retraction. The lead screw of the lead screw and nut mechanism is a self-locking trapezoidal lead screw to prevent retraction after the drive reaches the desired position. The second drive mechanism 108 can be a motor working in conjunction with the lead screw and nut mechanism to achieve up and down movement. The lead screw and nut mechanism uses a ball screw. The first preset temperature range is generally 100℃~120℃, but other temperature ranges can also be selected. The second preset temperature range is generally 150℃~200℃, but other temperature ranges can also be selected as needed. The third preset temperature range is generally 50℃~98℃, but other temperature ranges can also be selected as needed. Generally, the third preset temperature range is smaller than the first preset temperature range to avoid water vapor condensation on the membrane.

[0035] This embodiment controls the temperatures of the upper and lower heating blocks and, through a rational structural design, integrates the conversion and sealing processes into a single device. It can perform two working modes: sealing and heating without cutting the film, and sealing and cutting the film. This device saves space and achieves full automation. Since the conversion process requires sealing the film without cutting it off, and the sealing process requires both sealing and cutting the edges of the film after sealing, two power mechanisms are used during the upper heating block's operation, giving it two strokes. By controlling the positional relationship between the cutting blade and the upper heating block, it determines whether the film will be cut in a given action.

[0036] Example 2 Based on Embodiment 1, this embodiment provides a preferred structure for the mounting bracket. For example... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figures 7-9 As shown, the mounting frame in this embodiment includes a support frame 101, a connecting frame 103, a first guide post 104, and a second guide post 105. The support frame 101 is slidably mounted on the frame 100. The support frame 101 has a horizontally arranged support frame 102. Multiple first guide posts 104 and second guide posts 105 are movably sleeved on the support frame 102. A first spring 109 is sleeved on the first guide post 104, and a second spring 110 is sleeved on the second guide post 105. The lower end of the first guide post 104 is fixedly connected to the connecting frame 103. The lower end of the second guide post 105 is fixedly connected to the upper heating block 106, the lower end of the first spring 109 is connected to the connecting frame 103, and the lower end of the second spring 110 is connected to the upper heating block 106. The second spring 110 and the second guide post 105 serve as the elastic guiding assembly. The upper heating block 106 passes through the connecting frame 103, the first driving mechanism 107 passes through the support frame 102, and the film cutting mechanism is fixed below the support frame 102 and can pass through the connecting frame 103. By setting the first and second guide posts, the upper heating block can move within a set range, thereby achieving the switching between conversion and sealing modes. When not cutting the film, the connecting frame can protect the film cutting blade. When cutting the film, it is pressed against the rubber ring on the upper end face of the tooling to prevent the film from sliding during cutting. The first drive mechanism 107 has a fixed abutment flange block 113 at its drive end, which abuts against the upper heating block 106 to increase the abutment area.

[0037] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 7As shown, specifically, the film-cutting mechanism includes multiple film-cutting blades 200. These blades are fixed below the support frame 102 and together form an annular structure, which is spaced around the upper heating block 106. The multiple blades facilitate the cutting of the entire membrane. In other words, the film-cutting blades 200 are driven up and down by the second drive mechanism. When the film-cutting blades 200 move downwards to cut the membrane, the upper heating block 106 can move freely up and down without being restricted by the first drive mechanism. Even when it abuts against the membrane and reaction plate, when the first drive mechanism drives the entire support frame downwards, the upper heating block 106 is also compressed and guided upwards by the second guide post 105, compressing the second spring 110. The film-cutting blades then perform the cutting operation. At this time, the connecting frame 103 is also compressed and guided upwards by the first guide post 104, compressing the first spring 109.

[0038] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, in this embodiment, a plurality of connecting brackets 201 are fixed below the support frame 102, and a cutting blade 200 is fixed on each connecting bracket 201. The cutting blade can be fixed below the support frame through the connecting brackets.

[0039] Example 3 Based on Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, this embodiment provides a preferred structure for the tooling groove 416. For example... Figure 3 , Figures 5-7 As shown, the tooling slot 416 in this embodiment includes a first connecting arm 400, a second connecting arm 401, and a third connecting arm 402. The two ends of the second connecting arm 401 are fixedly connected to one end of the first connecting arm 400 and one end of the third connecting arm 402, respectively. The first connecting arms 400 are spaced apart on the left side of the lower heating block 408, the second connecting arms 401 are spaced apart on the front side of the lower heating block 408, and the third connecting arms 402 are spaced apart on the right side of the lower heating block 408. The front and rear ends of the first connecting arm 400... The first front and rear limiting plates 403 are respectively provided on the top. A first side limiting plate 405 is provided on the side of the first connecting arm 400 away from the third connecting arm 402. Second front and rear limiting plates 404 are respectively provided on the front and rear ends of the third connecting arm 402. A second side limiting plate 406 is provided on the side of the third connecting arm 402 away from the first connecting arm 400. The two first front and rear limiting plates 403, the two second front and rear limiting plates 404, the first side limiting plate 405, and the second side limiting plate 406 together form a groove for holding the tooling 407. By setting the first front and rear limiting plates, the second front and rear limiting plates, the first side limiting plate, and the second side limiting plate, the tooling can be limited.

[0040] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 5-7 As shown, in a further embodiment, the tooling slot 416 is slidably engaged with the frame 100 via a front-rear guide mechanism. The front-rear guide mechanism includes a third guide post 412 and a guide cylinder 111. The guide cylinder 111 is fixed to the frame 100 and arranged front-rear. The third guide post 412 is slidably sleeved within the guide cylinder 111, and the front end of the third guide post 412 is fixedly connected to the front end of the tooling slot 416 via a connecting plate 413. By providing the front-rear guide mechanism, the front-rear movement of the tooling slot is facilitated.

[0041] Example 4 Based on any of the above embodiments, this embodiment provides a preferred structure for the third drive mechanism. For example... Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the third driving mechanism in this embodiment includes a driving unit 500, a bracket 501, a belt drive assembly, a gear 505, a first rack 506, and a second rack 507. The bracket 501 is mounted on the frame 100 and can slide back and forth. The driving unit 500 is mounted on the bracket 501 and is connected to the gear 505 via the belt drive assembly. The first rack 506, extending back and forth, is fixed on the frame 100. The second rack 507, extending back and forth, is fixed on one side of the tooling slot 416 and is located above the first rack 506. The gear 505 meshes with both the first rack 506 and the second rack 507. By setting the gear, the first rack, and the second rack, the tooling slot can be driven to move back and forth. In this embodiment, a slide rail 112 extending back and forth is fixed on the left or right side of the frame 100. A slider 508 is fixed on the bracket 501 and is slidably connected to the bracket 501. The belt drive assembly includes a belt 502, a driving pulley 503, and a driven pulley 504. Both the driving pulley 503 and the driven pulley 504 are rotatably connected to a bracket 501. The belt 502 is sleeved on the driving pulley 503 and the driven pulley 504, and the driven pulley 504 is driven by the driving pulley 503 via the belt 502. A gear 505 is coaxially and fixedly connected to the driven pulley 504. The main structure of the drive unit 500 is fixed to the bracket 501, and the output shaft of the drive unit 500 is coaxially and fixedly connected to the driving pulley 503.

[0042] The third drive mechanism in this embodiment serves as the drive mechanism for the tooling slot to exit the chamber. The drive unit 500 can be a motor. The drive unit 500 moves forward and backward with the rack. When the tooling exits the chamber, it falls onto the tooling slot. When it retracts, it is guided and lifted by the lower heating block. The force point falls on the lower heating block. Therefore, the force from the upper constant pressure will not be transmitted to the tooling slot, but will be borne by the lower heating block, which is fixed on the frame 100.

[0043] Example 5 This embodiment provides a sealing conversion method, which is implemented using an integrated temperature control device for sealing conversion as described in any of the above embodiments, and includes the following steps: In conversion mode: the temperature control system is activated to heat the upper heating block 106 and the lower heating block 408 respectively, so that the upper heating block 106 is maintained in the first preset temperature range and the lower heating block 408 is maintained in the third preset temperature range; The tooling slot 416 is moved forward from the frame 100 using a third drive mechanism. The tooling slot 416 contains a tooling 407. The reaction plate 600 is placed in the tooling slot 416 using a robot arm. Then, the tooling slot 416 is moved backward into the frame 100 using the third drive mechanism. The tooling 407 is supported on the lower heating block 408. Under the action of the film winding mechanism, there is a sealing membrane between the tooling 407 and the upper heating block 106. The robot arm can be a commonly used industrial multi-degree-of-freedom robot arm.

[0044] Adjust the drive end of the first drive mechanism 107 to extend to the limit position and abut against the upper heating block 106 to limit the upper heating block 106. At this time, the lower surface of the upper heating block 106 protrudes from the lower end of the mounting bracket by a first preset distance and from the lower end of the film cutting mechanism by a second preset distance. The second drive mechanism drives the mounting bracket to move the upper heating block 106 downward, so that the upper heating block 106 abuts against and presses down the membrane between the tooling 407 and the upper heating block 106, so that the membrane is sealed and pressed against the upper surface of the reaction plate 600. At this time, the upper heating block 106 and the lower heating block 408 clamp the tooling 407 and the reaction plate 600, and the conversion process begins. After the conversion is completed, the temperature control system is turned off, and the second drive mechanism 108 drives the mounting bracket to move the upper heating block 106 upward. The membrane is removed from the upper surface of the reaction plate 600. The membrane winding mechanism 300 removes a section of the membrane used for conversion, and moves a new section of the membrane between the tooling 407 and the upper heating block 106 for sealing. In sealing mode: the temperature control system is activated to heat the upper heating block 106, so that the upper heating block 106 is maintained within the second preset temperature range; Adjust the drive end of the first drive mechanism 107 to extend to the limit position and abut against the upper heating block 106 to limit the upper heating block 106. At this time, the lower surface of the upper heating block 106 protrudes from the lower end of the mounting bracket by a first preset distance and from the lower end of the film cutting mechanism by a second preset distance. The second drive mechanism 108 drives the mounting bracket to move the upper heating block 106 downward, so that the upper heating block 106 abuts against and presses down the membrane between the tooling 407 and the upper heating block 106, so that the membrane is thermally melted and welded to the upper surface of the reaction plate 600. The driving end of the first driving mechanism 107 is retracted to its limit position. At this time, the upper heating block 106 is unrestricted and moves upward. The second driving mechanism 108 continues to drive the mounting frame to move the film cutting mechanism downward. When the film cutting mechanism moves downward until its lower end protrudes from the lower surface of the upper heating block 106, the film cutting is completed. The film body is detached from the film winding mechanism 300 and sealed on the reaction plate 600, completing the sealing process.

[0045] In this embodiment, in the conversion mode, when the driving end of the first driving mechanism 107 presses against the upper heating block, the lowest point of the upper heating block exceeds the lowest point of the cutting blade 200. At this time, only sealing is performed, and the sealing film is not cut. The upper and lower heating blocks are preheated. The lower heating block is in direct contact with the bottom of the reaction plate, and the upper heating block is the main heating block. It is heated to a specified temperature before sealing, and the upper heating block is slightly higher than the specified temperature (e.g., 100°C). This prevents the sample liquid temperature from becoming too high and prevents condensation on the sealing film from contaminating the adjacent sample. The upper and lower heating blocks press against the reaction plate to start the heating process, which is the conversion process. The temperature is precisely controlled throughout this process, and both the upper and lower heating blocks are kept within a preset temperature range. During the conversion process, the upper and lower heating blocks are heated to the corresponding conversion temperature, kept constant, and the temperature is changed as needed. When the driving end of the first driving mechanism 107 retracts to the limit position in the sealing mode, the upper heating block can move freely up and down. At this time, when the cutting blade moves to the lower limit, the upper heating block is still in a free state, and the cutting blade can complete the cutting process. During the sealing process, the temperature control system heats the upper heating block to the sealing temperature (e.g., 180°C). At this point, the sealing film softens and partially melts, and comes into contact with the plastic reaction plate to complete the seal. The temperature control system controls the heating temperature and contact time of the sealing film to prevent the film from burning through or the seal from being tight.

[0046] The sealing and conversion method in this embodiment controls the temperature of the upper heating block and the lower heating block, and through a reasonable structural setting, realizes the two processes of conversion and sealing on a set of equipment, which can respectively complete two working modes: sealing and heating without cutting the film and sealing and cutting the film.

[0047] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this 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. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0048] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0049] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0050] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0051] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0052] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A temperature control device integrating sealing and conversion, characterized in that, The device includes a frame and a mounting bracket mounted on the frame, a film cutting mechanism, a film winding mechanism, a tooling slot for holding tooling, an upper heating block, a lower heating block, a first drive mechanism, a second drive mechanism, and a third drive mechanism. The upper heating block is connected to the mounting bracket via an elastic guide assembly and can move up and down relative to the mounting bracket. The drive end of the first drive mechanism is located above the upper heating block and is used to limit the vertical travel of the upper heating block. The film cutting mechanism is fixed on the mounting bracket and located around the upper heating block. The drive end of the second drive mechanism is connected to the mounting bracket and drives the mounting bracket to move up and down. The lower heating block is fixed on the frame and located below the mounting bracket. The tooling slot is located above the lower heating block. The third drive mechanism is connected to the tooling slot and drives the tooling slot to move back and forth relative to the lower heating block. The film winding mechanism is used to carry the film body and drive the film body to move between the upper heating block and the tooling slot. The upper heating block and the lower heating block are electrically connected to the temperature control system. The temperature control system is used to control the temperature of the upper heating block in the conversion mode to be within a first preset temperature range, to control the temperature of the upper heating block in the sealing mode to be within a second preset temperature range, and to control the temperature of the lower heating block in the conversion mode to be within a third preset temperature range; the second preset temperature range > the first preset temperature range > the third preset temperature range.

2. The integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mounting frame includes a support frame, a connecting frame, a first guide post, and a second guide post. The support frame is slidably mounted on the machine frame. The support frame has a horizontally arranged support frame. Multiple first guide posts and second guide posts are movably sleeved on the support frame. A first spring is sleeved on the first guide post, and a second spring is sleeved on the second guide post. The lower end of the first guide post is fixedly connected to the connecting frame, and the lower end of the second guide post is fixedly connected to the upper heating block. The lower end of the first spring is connected to the connecting frame, and the lower end of the second spring is connected to the upper heating block. The second spring and the second guide post serve as the elastic guiding assembly. The upper heating block passes through the connecting frame, and the first driving mechanism passes through the support frame. The film cutting mechanism is fixed below the support frame and can pass through the connecting frame.

3. The integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion according to claim 2, characterized in that, The film cutting mechanism includes multiple film cutting blades, which are respectively fixed below the support frame and enclosed to form an annular cylindrical structure. The annular cylindrical structure is spaced around the upper heating block.

4. The integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion according to claim 3, characterized in that, Multiple connecting frames are fixed below the support frame, and each connecting frame is fixed with a film cutting knife.

5. The integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The tooling slot includes a first connecting arm, a second connecting arm, and a third connecting arm. The two ends of the second connecting arm are fixedly connected to one end of the first connecting arm and one end of the third connecting arm, respectively. The first connecting arms are spaced apart on the left side of the lower heating block, the second connecting arms are spaced apart on the front side of the lower heating block, and the third connecting arm is spaced apart on the right side of the lower heating block. First front and rear limiting plates are respectively provided above the front and rear ends of the first connecting arm. A first side limiting plate is provided above the side of the first connecting arm away from the third connecting arm. Second front and rear limiting plates are respectively provided above the front and rear ends of the third connecting arm. A second side limiting plate is provided above the side of the third connecting arm away from the first connecting arm. The two first front and rear limiting plates, the two second front and rear limiting plates, the first side limiting plate and the second side limiting plate together form a trough for holding the tooling.

6. The integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The tooling slot is slidably engaged with the machine frame via a front and rear guide mechanism. The front and rear guide mechanism includes a third guide post and a guide cylinder. The guide cylinder is fixed on the machine frame and arranged front and rear. The third guide post is slidably sleeved inside the guide cylinder. The front end of the third guide post is fixedly connected to the front end of the tooling slot via a connecting plate.

7. The integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The upper surface of the front end of the lower heating block is provided with a guide protrusion, and the upper surface of the rear end of the lower heating block is provided with a support protrusion. A tooling limiting groove for supporting the tooling is formed between the guide protrusion and the support protrusion. The bottom of the tooling limiting groove is higher than the bottom of the tooling groove.

8. The integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The third drive mechanism includes a drive unit, a bracket, a belt drive assembly, a gear, a first rack, and a second rack. The bracket is mounted on the frame and can slide back and forth. The drive unit is mounted on the bracket and is connected to the gear via the belt drive assembly. A first rack extending back and forth is fixed on the frame. A second rack extending back and forth is fixed on one side of the tooling slot. The second rack is located above the first rack. The gear meshes with the first rack and the second rack, respectively.

9. The integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It also includes tooling, which is adapted to be contained in the tooling slot. The tooling has a receiving slot for placing the reaction plate, and the front and rear side walls of the receiving slot are provided with robot arm clearance openings.

10. A sealing conversion method, characterized in that, The method employs an integrated temperature control device for sealing and conversion as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising the following steps: In conversion mode: the temperature control system is activated to heat the upper heating block and the lower heating block respectively, so that the upper heating block is maintained in the first preset temperature range and the lower heating block is maintained in the third preset temperature range; The tooling slot is moved forward from the frame using a third drive mechanism. The tooling slot contains a tooling. A robot arm places a reaction plate into the tooling slot. Then, the third drive mechanism moves the tooling slot backward into the frame. The tooling is supported on the lower heating block. Under the action of the film winding mechanism, there is a sealing membrane between the tooling and the upper heating block. Adjust the drive end of the first drive mechanism to extend to the limit position and abut against the upper heating block to limit the upper heating block. At this time, the lower surface of the upper heating block protrudes from the lower end of the mounting bracket by a first preset distance and from the lower end of the film cutting mechanism by a second preset distance. The second drive mechanism drives the mounting frame to move the upper heating block downward, so that the upper heating block abuts against and presses down the membrane between the tooling and the upper heating block, so that the membrane is sealed and pressed against the upper surface of the reaction plate. At this time, the upper heating block and the lower heating block clamp the tooling and the reaction plate, and the conversion process begins. After the conversion is completed, the temperature control system is turned off, and the second drive mechanism drives the mounting bracket to move the upper heating block upward. The membrane is removed from the upper surface of the reaction plate. The membrane winding mechanism is used to remove a section of the membrane used for conversion, and a new section of membrane is moved and placed between the tooling and the upper heating block for sealing. In sealing mode: the temperature control system is activated to heat the upper heating block, keeping it within the second preset temperature range; Adjust the drive end of the first drive mechanism to extend to the limit position and abut against the upper heating block to limit the upper heating block. At this time, the lower surface of the upper heating block protrudes from the lower end of the mounting bracket by a first preset distance and from the lower end of the film cutting mechanism by a second preset distance. The second drive mechanism drives the mounting frame to move the upper heating block downward, so that the upper heating block abuts against and presses down the membrane between the tooling and the upper heating block, so that the membrane is thermally welded to the upper surface of the reaction plate; The drive end of the first drive mechanism is retracted to its limit position. At this time, the upper heating block is unrestricted and moves upward. The second drive mechanism continues to drive the mounting frame to move the film cutting mechanism downward. When the film cutting mechanism moves downward until its lower end protrudes from the lower surface of the upper heating block, the film cutting is completed. The film body is detached from the film winding mechanism and sealed on the reaction plate, completing the sealing process.

Images