Polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips

Abstract

This invention provides a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) device for detecting microfluidic chips, relating to the technical field of biochemical reaction equipment. The device includes a chip tray, a squeeze-unlocking device, a feeding device, and a centrifugation device. The feeding device includes a horizontal drive module and a tray base, the horizontal drive module being connected to the tray base. Multiple latches are rotatably connected to the tray base, and a first reset element is provided between the tray base and the latches, the first reset element being used to drive the latches to a horizontal state. The squeeze-unlocking device includes a vertical drive module, a push rod, and a chip pressure plate rotatable around a pivot axis. Both the push rod and the pivot axis are connected to the drive end of the vertical drive module. The push rod can descend to abut against the latches and push them away from under the chip tray. The latches are in an inclined state, and their upward projection is at least partially located on the chip tray, disengaging from the chip tray. The chip pressure plate and the centrifugation device press the descended chip tray together, and the centrifugation device drives the chip tray to perform centrifugal motion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of biochemical reaction equipment technology, and in particular to a polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips. Background Technology

[0002] Microfluidic detection technology can complete sample processing and detection on small consumables. It can integrate the detection that previously required multiple operating chambers (sample pretreatment, mixing, reaction, separation and detection chambers) onto a single chip and automate the entire analysis process on a small device. It has the advantages of short detection time and simultaneous detection of multiple indicators.

[0003] Existing reaction devices all use top-injection, which prevents the instruments from being stacked and expanded, and makes it impossible to place other items on the top of the instruments. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips, thereby alleviating the technical problem that existing devices cannot be vertically stacked and expanded.

[0005] The present invention provides a polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips, comprising: a chip tray, and a squeeze unlocking device, a feeding device and a centrifugation device arranged sequentially from top to bottom; The feeding device includes a lateral drive module and a tray base. The lateral drive module is connected to the tray base to drive the tray base to move laterally to the detection position and the loading position, which are located on the inner and outer sides of the reaction device, respectively. Multiple latches are rotatably connected to the tray base, and a first reset member is provided between the tray base and the latches. The first reset member is used to drive the latches to a horizontal state to support the chip tray. The squeeze unlocking device includes a vertical drive module, a push rod, and a chip pressure plate that can rotate around a pivot. Both the push rod and the pivot are connected to the drive end of the vertical drive module. The push rod can descend to abut against the latch and push it away from under the chip tray, so that the chip tray falls onto the centrifugal device. At this time, the latch is tilted, and its upward projection is at least partially located on the chip tray. The latch is disengaged from the chip tray. After the chip platen is pressed down by the centrifugal device, the chip tray is subjected to centrifugal motion.

[0006] Furthermore, the centrifuge device includes a motor base, a rotary motor, and a rotating platform. The rotary motor is mounted on the motor base, and the rotating platform is connected to the drive shaft of the rotary motor. The rotating platform is horizontally positioned. A temperature control module is provided on the surface of the rotating platform that supports the chip tray.

[0007] Furthermore, the feeding device includes a tray base, a drop hole is provided at the center of the tray base, and multiple buckles are provided at equal intervals along the edge of the drop hole; The chip tray can pass through the drop hole.

[0008] Furthermore, the reaction apparatus also includes a middle layer plate; The lateral drive module includes a slide rail, a tray drive motor, a synchronous pulley, and a drive synchronous belt; The fixing part of the slide rail and the tray drive motor are both connected to the middle layer plate; The drive timing belt is wound around the outside of the timing pulley, and the tray drive motor drives the timing pulley to rotate; The timing belt is connected to the tray base; the moving part of the slide rail is connected to the tray base.

[0009] Furthermore, the tray base includes a snap-fit ​​base; The buckle is rotatably connected to the buckle base so that the buckle can swing vertically. The first reset component is a tension spring, one end of which is connected to the buckle and the other end is connected to the buckle base.

[0010] Furthermore, the feeding device also includes a switchable self-locking block, which is movably connected to the latching base; When the self-locking block is in the locked state, the self-locking block prevents the buckle from rotating relative to the buckle base; when the self-locking block is in the unlocked state, the self-locking block releases the restriction on the buckle.

[0011] Furthermore, the self-locking block is connected to the latch base via a second reset member, which is used to drive the self-locking block into a locked state.

[0012] Furthermore, the self-locking block is rotatably connected to the buckle base, and the second reset component is a torsion spring disposed between the self-locking block and the buckle base; The buckle is provided with a limit slot; The self-locking block has an abutment part located on the movement path of the push rod, and a locking tongue located in the limiting slot. When the locking tongue is located in the limiting slot, the locking tongue prevents the buckle from rotating. The self-locking block is located above the buckle. During the descent of the push rod, it first contacts the abutment part of the self-locking block to make the self-locking block rotate. The locking tongue disengages from the limiting slot, and the self-locking block is in an unlocked state. Then, the push rod passes the abutment part and abuts against the buckle.

[0013] Furthermore, the squeeze unlocking device includes an upper plate and a lower plate. The upper plate is provided with a vertically arranged linear bearing, and the lower plate is provided with an optical axis connected to the linear bearing. Both the rotating shaft and the push rod are connected to the lower pressure plate; The vertical drive module is mounted on the upper plate, and the drive end of the vertical drive module is connected to the lower pressure plate.

[0014] Furthermore, the vertical drive module includes a downward motor, a lead screw extending laterally, a lead screw nut connected to the lead screw, and a connecting rod assembly, with a transmission plate fixed on the lead screw nut; The upper plate is provided with a guide rail parallel to the lead screw, and a slider is slidably connected to the guide rail. The slider is connected to the transmission plate. One end of the connecting rod assembly is connected to the transmission plate, and the other end is rotatably connected to the lower pressure plate to convert lateral thrust into vertical thrust.

[0015] This invention has at least the following advantages or beneficial effects: The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) apparatus for detecting microfluidic chips provided by this invention includes: a chip tray, and a squeeze unlocking device, a feeding device, and a centrifugation device arranged sequentially from top to bottom; the feeding device includes a lateral drive module and a tray base, the lateral drive module being connected to the tray base to drive the tray base to move laterally to a detection position and a loading position, the detection position and the loading position being located on the inner and outer sides of the reaction apparatus, respectively; multiple latches are rotatably connected to the tray base, and a first reset member is provided between the tray base and the latches, the first reset member being used to drive the latches to a horizontal state. The device supports the chip tray. The squeezing unlocking device includes a vertical drive module, a push rod, and a chip pressure plate that can rotate around a pivot. Both the push rod and the pivot are connected to the drive end of the vertical drive module. The push rod can descend to abut against the latch and push it away from under the chip tray so that the chip tray falls onto the centrifugal device. At this time, the latch is tilted and its upward projection is at least partially located on the chip tray. The latch is disengaged from the chip tray. The chip pressure plate and the centrifugal device press the fallen chip tray together, and the centrifugal device drives the chip tray to perform centrifugal motion.

[0016] This reaction device enables lateral feeding. Specifically, the user can control the feeding device to move the tray base laterally to the loading position, where the tray base is exposed on the outside of the device. The user places the chip onto the chip tray, which is supported by the latches on the tray base. Then, the user controls the feeding mechanism to return the tray base to the detection position, thus achieving lateral feeding. Changing the existing vertical feeding to lateral feeding frees up space above the device, allowing for stacking in the upper area. Although this solution modifies the feeding direction, centrifugation of the chips can still be achieved after feeding. Specifically, when the tray base moves to the detection position, the squeezing unlocking device is activated, and the push rod and chip pressure plate move downwards together. The push rod first contacts the latches, and under the downward pressure of the push rod, pushes the latches away from the chip tray from below. The latches disengage from the chip tray, and the unsupported chip tray moves downwards under gravity and falls onto the centrifugation device, where it is pressed down by the centrifugation device and chip pressure plate. After the centrifugation device is activated, it can rotate the chips together. After centrifugation is complete, the push rod and chip plate rise together. After the push rod removes the thrust on the latch, the latch gradually rotates to a horizontal position under the drive of the first reset component. During the rotation, the latch can lift the chip tray again, so that the chip tray returns to the top of the tray base, just like when it was feeding. After the test is completed, the tray base extends to the loading position again, and the user removes the chip, and the entire test is completed. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the centrifugation device (the snap-fit ​​is not shown) for a polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the feeding device of the polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention (the buckle is not shown). Figure 4 This is a top view of the feeding device of the polymerase chain reaction apparatus for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of the latch, the first reset member, and the latch base of the polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a squeeze unlocking device for a polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing the locking of the snap-fit ​​device for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention before the latch is unlocked. Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention after the latch has been unlocked. Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the chip tray of the polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention after it loses its support. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the lateral movement of the tray base of the polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the movement of the squeeze unlocking device of the polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Icons: 100-Centrifuge device; 101-Base plate; 102-Motor base; 103-Rotary motor; 104-Rotary platform; 105-Temperature control module; 200 - Feeding device; 201 - Middle layer plate; 202 - Tray base; 203 - Chip tray; 204 - Chip; 205 - Slide rail; 211 - Tray drive motor; 213 - Synchronous pulley; 215 - Synchronous belt; 222 - Buckle; 221 - Buckle base; 223 - Self-locking block; 224 - Torsion spring; 225 - Tension spring; 300 - Compression unlocking device; 301 - Upper plate; 302 - Linear bearing; 303 - Optical axis; 305 - Chip pressure plate; 306 - Top rod; 307 - Lower pressure plate; 311 - Short connecting rod; 312 - Long connecting rod; 313 - Transmission plate; 314 - Lead screw nut; 315 - Lead screw; 316 - Lower pressure motor; 317 - Slider; 318 - Guide rail; 304 - Detection module; 2231 - Locking tongue; 2232 - Limiting slot; 2233 - Abutment part. Detailed Implementation

[0020] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0021] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the invention.

[0022] 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.

[0023] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of this invention is in use. 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0024] Furthermore, terms such as "horizontal" and "vertical" do not imply that components must be absolutely horizontal or suspended, but rather that they can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal than "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly tilted.

[0025] In the description of this invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; 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; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0026] like Figures 1-12As shown, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) device for detecting microfluidic chips provided by the present invention includes: a chip tray 203, and a squeeze unlocking device 300, a feeding device 200, and a centrifugation device 100 arranged sequentially from top to bottom; the feeding device 200 includes a lateral drive module and a tray base 202, the lateral drive module being connected to the tray base 202 to drive the tray base 202 to move laterally to a detection position and a loading position, the detection position and the loading position being located on the inner and outer sides of the reaction device, respectively. Figure 11 As shown; a plurality of latches 222 are rotatably connected to the tray base 202, and a first reset member is provided between the tray base 202 and the latches 222. The first reset member is used to drive the latches 222 to a horizontal state to support the chip tray 203; the squeeze unlocking device 300 includes a vertical drive module, a push rod 306 and a chip pressure plate 305 that can rotate around a pivot. The push rod 306 and the pivot are both connected to the drive end of the vertical drive module; the push rod 306 can descend to abut against the latches 222 and push them away from under the chip tray 203 so that the chip tray 203 falls onto the centrifugal device 100. At this time, the latches 222 are in an inclined state, and their upward projection is at least partially located on the chip tray 203. At this time, the latches 222 are disengaged from the chip tray 203. The chip platen 305 presses down the chip tray 203 after it is pressed by the centrifugal device 100, and the centrifugal device 100 drives the chip tray 203 to perform centrifugal motion.

[0027] This reaction device enables lateral feeding. Specifically, the user can control the feeding device 200 to move the tray base 202 laterally to the loading position, at which point the tray base 202 is exposed on the outside of the device. The user places the chip 204 onto the chip tray 203, using the latches 222 on the tray base 202 to support the chip tray 203. Then, the user controls the feeding mechanism to return the tray base 202 to the detection position, thus achieving lateral feeding. Changing the existing vertical feeding to lateral feeding frees up the space above the device, allowing for stacking in the upper area. Although the feeding direction has been modified in this solution, centrifugation of chip 204 can still be achieved after feeding. Specifically, when the tray base 202 moves to the detection position, the squeezing unlocking device 300 is activated, and the push rod 306 and the chip pressure plate 305 move downward together. The push rod 306 first contacts the buckle 222, and under the downward pressure of the push rod 306, the buckle 222 is pushed open from below the chip tray 203. The buckle is disengaged from the chip tray, and the chip tray 203, which has lost its support, moves downward under the action of gravity and falls onto the centrifugation device 100. It is then pressed tightly by the centrifugation device 100 and the chip pressure plate 305. After the centrifugation device 100 is activated, it can drive the chip 204 to rotate together. After centrifugation is complete, the push rod 306 and the chip pressure plate 305 rise together. After the push rod 306 removes the pushing force on the latch 222, since the upward projection of the latch 222 is at least partially located on the chip tray 203, the latch 222 gradually rotates to a horizontal position under the drive of the first reset member. During the rotation, the latch 222 can lift the chip 204 chassis again, so that the chip 204 chassis returns to the tray base 202, just like the state during feeding. After the test is completed, the tray base 202 extends to the loading position again, and the user takes out the chip 204, and the entire test is completed.

[0028] The reaction apparatus described herein is capable of positioning and moving the chip tray 203 in both horizontal and vertical directions. This ensures that the chip tray 203 can rotate and centrifuge within the instrument without interference from other structures. It also allows for loading the chip 204 externally, providing ample space for user operation. The travel distance of the chip tray 203 can be designed according to requirements. The transmission components consist only of the tray assembly and the chip 204, resulting in a small load that will not affect the instrument's center of gravity. The travel distance designed for this instrument allows the chip tray 203 to be completely removed from the instrument, exposing the loading position of the chip 204 to the user for convenient chip placement.

[0029] like Figure 2As shown, the centrifugal device 100 includes a motor base 102, a rotary motor 103, and a rotating platform 104. The rotary motor 103 is mounted on the motor base 102, and the rotating platform 104 is connected to the drive shaft of the rotary motor 103. The rotating platform 104 is horizontally arranged. A temperature control module 105 is provided on the surface of the rotating platform 104 for supporting the chip tray 203.

[0030] The motor base 102 is fixed to the base plate 101, and the rotary motor 103 is fixed to the motor base 102. The rotary motor 103 is connected to the rotary platform 104, which provides the vertical limiting position for the chip 204. The rotary motor 103 can centrifuge the rotary platform 104 according to the required rotation speed. A temperature control module 105 is fixed on the rotary platform 104, which can realize the heating and cooling of the chip 204.

[0031] like Figures 2-4 As shown, the feeding device 200 includes a tray base 202. A drop hole is provided at the center of the tray base 202, the size of which is larger than the size of the chip tray 203, allowing the chip tray 203 to pass through. Multiple latches 222 are evenly spaced along the edge of the drop hole. In this embodiment, three latches 222 are used to provide uniform support around the chip tray 203. The three latches 222 have the same movement state; that is, under the push of the push rod 306, they can rotate synchronously, so that the support force is simultaneously removed from all positions of the chip tray 203, preventing the chip tray 203 from tilting.

[0032] The reaction device further includes a middle layer plate 201; the transverse drive module includes a slide rail 205, a tray drive motor 211, a synchronous pulley 213, and a drive synchronous belt 215; the fixed part of the slide rail 205 and the tray drive motor 211 are both connected to the middle layer plate 201; the drive synchronous belt 215 is wrapped around the outside of the synchronous pulley 213, and the tray drive motor 211 drives the synchronous pulley 213 to rotate; the synchronous belt 215 is connected to the tray base 202; the movable part of the slide rail 205 is connected to the tray base 202.

[0033] The chip tray 203 is placed on the tray base 202 and can be raised and lowered vertically. The tray base 202 is connected to the moving part of the slide rail 205, and the fixed part of the slide rail 205 is fixed to the middle plate 201. The middle plate 201 and the base plate 101 are connected by a column. The tray drive motor 211 is fixed to the middle plate 201. The tray drive motor 211 drives the synchronous belt 215 through the synchronous pulley 213. The synchronous belt 215 is connected to the tray base 202, enabling the tray base 202 to move laterally back and forth. The tray base 202 can extend completely outside the instrument for the user to place the chip 204.

[0034] Depending on the shape and size of the chip 204, the chip tray 203 can hold multiple chips 204 (this instrument can hold two chips 204).

[0035] like Figures 5-10 As shown, the tray base 202 includes a snap-fit ​​base 221, and the snap-fit ​​222 is rotatably connected to the snap-fit ​​base 221 so that the snap-fit ​​222 can swing vertically; the first reset member is a tension spring 225, one end of the tension spring 225 is connected to the snap-fit ​​222, and the other end is connected to the snap-fit ​​base 221; the snap-fit ​​222 is used to support the chip tray 203.

[0036] The latch 222 is rotatably connected to the latch base 221 and can rotate around an axis. The tension spring 225 connects the latch 222 and the latch base 221, so that the latch 222 is always in a horizontal position without external force, supporting the chip tray 203.

[0037] like Figure 7 As shown, to prevent the chip tray 203 from accidentally falling off, the feeding device 200 also includes a switchable self-locking block 223, which is movably connected to the latch base 221. When the self-locking block 223 is in the locked state, it prevents the latch 222 from rotating relative to the latch base 221. When the self-locking block 223 is in the unlocked state, it releases the latch 222 from its restriction. By actively changing the state of the self-locking block 223, the latch 222 can only rotate when needed, and is normally locked by the self-locking block 223.

[0038] Specifically, the self-locking block 223 is connected to the latching base 221 through a second reset member. The second reset member is used to drive the self-locking block 223 to a locked state. The second reset member plays an automatic reset role. Therefore, when the force that drives the self-locking block 223 to the unlocked state is removed, the self-locking block 223 can automatically return to the locked state.

[0039] like Figures 7-10As shown, the self-locking block 223 is rotatably connected to the buckle base 221, and the second reset member is a torsion spring 224 disposed between the self-locking block 223 and the buckle base 221; the buckle 222 is provided with a limiting groove 2232; the self-locking block 223 has an abutment portion 2233 located on the movement path of the top rod 306, and a locking tongue 2231 located in the limiting groove 2232, wherein the locking tongue 2231 is located in the limiting groove 223. When the latch 2231 is inside the latch, it prevents the buckle 222 from rotating. The self-locking block 223 is located above the buckle 222. During the descent of the push rod 306, it first contacts the abutment part 2233 of the self-locking block 223 to make the self-locking block 223 rotate. The latch 2231 disengages from the limiting slot 2232, and the self-locking block 223 is in an unlocked state. Then, the push rod 306 passes the abutment part 2233 and abuts against the buckle 222.

[0040] The self-locking block 223 is connected to the latch base 221 and can rotate around its axis. A torsion spring 224 connects the self-locking block 223 and the latch base 221, ensuring that the self-locking block 223 remains in its initial position (locked state) without external force. The self-locking function prevents the chip tray 203 from falling off due to incorrect operation when it is outside the instrument. When the self-locking block 223 is locked, the locking tongue 2231 is located within the limiting slot 2232. After the latch 222 rotates to a certain angle, it cannot continue to rotate due to interference between the locking tongue 2231 and the latch 222. During the downward pressing process, the push rod 306 touches the self-locking block 223, causing the locking tongue 2231 to rotate out of the limiting slot 2232, unlocking the self-locking block 223 (after the self-locking block 223 rotates, the locking tongue 2231 no longer interferes with the latch 222). After the push rod 306 contacts the latch 222, the latch 222 can continue to rotate.

[0041] like Figure 10 As shown, during the rotation of the latch 222, the chip tray 203, due to its own weight, will move downwards along with the latch 222. After the chip tray 203 contacts the rotating platform 104, the chip tray 203 stops moving downwards. The latch 222 continues to rotate and move downwards until it reaches the end of its travel. At this time, the latch 222 is in an inclined state, and its upward projection is at least partially located on the chip tray 203, and the chip pressure plate 305 presses down on the chip tray 203 and the chip 204, and the latch 222 disengages from the chip tray 203. The rotating platform 104 can rotate, and the chip tray 203 will not be interfered with by the latch 222.

[0042] After the experiment, the push rod 306 moves upward, and the latch 222 gradually returns to its original position under the action of the tension spring 225, lifting the chip tray 203 to gradually rise and return to the initial position. After the self-locking block 223 loses the pushing force of the push rod 306, it also returns to the locked state, locking the latch 222.

[0043] like Figure 6 As shown, the squeeze unlocking device 300 includes an upper plate 301 and a lower pressure plate 307. A linear bearing 302 arranged vertically is provided on the upper plate 301, and an optical axis 303 connected to the linear bearing 302 is provided on the lower pressure plate 307. The rotating shaft and the push rod 306 are both connected to the lower pressure plate 307. The vertical drive module is installed on the upper plate 301, and the drive end of the vertical drive module is connected to the lower pressure plate 307. The vertical drive module includes a downward pressure motor 316, a lead screw 315 extending laterally, a lead screw nut 314 connected to the lead screw 315, and a connecting rod assembly. A transmission plate 313 is fixed on the lead screw nut 314. A guide rail 318 parallel to the lead screw 315 is provided on the upper plate 301. A slider 317 is slidably connected to the guide rail 318 and is connected to the transmission plate 313. One end of the connecting rod assembly is connected to the transmission plate 313, and the other end is rotatably connected to the downward pressure plate 307 to convert the lateral thrust into vertical thrust.

[0044] A downward-pressing motor 316 is fixed to the upper plate 301, and drives a lead screw nut 314 via a lead screw 315. A transmission plate 313 is fixed to the lead screw nut 314. Linear guide rails 318 are fixed on both sides of the upper plate 301, and a slider 317 is connected to each of the two guide rails 318. The sliders 317 are connected to the transmission plate 313, and the transmission plate 313 can drive the sliders 317 on both sides to move simultaneously. The linkage assembly may include a long connecting rod 312 and a short connecting rod 311. The slider 317 drives the long connecting rod 312, the long connecting rod 312 drives the short connecting rod 311, and the movement of the short connecting rod 311 drives the lifting and lowering of the lower pressure plate 307. The long connecting rod 312 and the short connecting rod 311, and the short connecting rod 311 and the lower pressure plate 307 can all rotate. Four linear bearings 302 are fixed on the upper plate 301, and four optical shafts 303 are fixed on the lower pressure plate 307. The linear bearing 302, in conjunction with the optical axis 303, allows the lower pressure plate 307 to move vertically up and down. A chip pressure plate 305 is connected to the lower pressure plate 307, and the chip pressure plate 305 can rotate around a central axis. After the downward movement reaches its final position, the chip pressure plate 305 can press down on the chip 204 and the chip tray 203. Three push rods 306 are fixed to the lower pressure plate 307, their positions corresponding one-to-one with the latches 222. The detection module 304 is fixed to the lower pressure plate 307.

[0045] like Figure 12As shown, at the final pressure position, the chip tray 203 is in close contact with the rotating platform 104, and the chip pressure plate 305 is in close contact with both the chip tray 203 and the chip 204. The latch 222 is disengaged from the chip tray 203. The rotating motor 103 rotates, causing the rotating platform 104, chip tray 203, and chip pressure plate 305 to rotate together. At the final pressure position, the chip tray 203 is only in contact with the chip pressure plate 305 and the rotating platform 104. Sufficient distance is maintained between the chip tray 203 and the latch 222 and the push rod 306, ensuring no interference during centrifugal rotation.

[0046] The temperature control module 105 can perform temperature control. The detection module 304 can read detection data.

[0047] In summary, this embodiment provides a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) device for detecting microfluidic chips, including a chip 204 feeding device 200, a squeeze-unlock device 300, a centrifuge device 100, a temperature control module 105, and a detection module 304. The chip 204 feeding device 200 can transfer the chip 204 from a loading position outside the instrument to a detection position inside the instrument. The squeeze-unlock device 300 allows the chip 204 to rise and fall inside the instrument, with the falling portion pressing the chip 204 tightly against the centrifuge device 100. The centrifuge device 100 provides the required rotational speed for centrifuging the chip 204. The temperature control module 105 can heat and cool the chip 204 to quickly reach the target temperature required for the experiment. The detection module can read the sample test data from within the chip 204 in real time.

[0048] This invention automates the movement of the chip 204. Simply add the sample to be tested into the chip 204, and the loading, positioning, heating, and testing of the chip 204 are all automated, enabling rapid detection of various test results and greatly improving testing efficiency.

[0049] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) device for detecting microfluidic chips, characterized in that, include: The chip tray (203) and the squeeze unlocking device (300), the feeding device (200) and the centrifugal device (100) arranged from top to bottom. The feeding device (200) includes a lateral drive module and a tray base (202). The lateral drive module is connected to the tray base (202) to drive the tray base (202) to move laterally to the detection position and the loading position, which are located on the inner and outer sides of the reaction device, respectively. A plurality of buckles (222) are rotatably connected to the tray base (202). A first reset member is provided between the tray base (202) and the buckles (222). The first reset member is used to drive the buckles (222) to a horizontal state to support the chip tray (203). The squeeze unlocking device (300) includes a vertical drive module, a push rod (306), and a chip pressure plate (305) that can rotate around a pivot. The push rod (306) and the pivot are both connected to the drive end of the vertical drive module. The push rod (306) can descend to abut against the latch (222) and push it away from under the chip tray (203) so that the chip tray (203) falls onto the centrifugal device (100). At this time, the latch (222) is in an inclined state, and its upward projection is at least partially located on the chip tray (203). The latch (222) is disengaged from the chip tray (203). The chip platen (305) presses down the chip tray (203) with the centrifugal device (100), and the centrifugal device (100) drives the chip tray (203) to perform centrifugal motion.

2. The polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips according to claim 1, characterized in that, The centrifuge device (100) includes a motor base (102), a rotary motor (103), and a rotating platform (104). The rotary motor (103) is mounted on the motor base (102), and the rotating platform (104) is connected to the drive shaft of the rotary motor (103). The rotating platform (104) is horizontally arranged. A temperature control module (105) is provided on the surface of the rotating platform (104) used to support the chip tray (203).

3. The polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding device (200) includes a tray base (202), a drop hole is provided at the center of the tray base (202), and multiple buckles (222) are provided at equal intervals along the edge of the drop hole. The chip tray (203) can pass through the drop hole.

4. The polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips according to claim 3, characterized in that, The reaction apparatus also includes a middle plate (201). The lateral drive module includes a slide rail (205), a tray drive motor (211), a synchronous pulley (213), and a drive synchronous belt (215). The fixing part of the slide rail (205) and the tray drive motor (211) are both connected to the middle plate (201); The drive timing belt (215) is wrapped around the outside of the timing pulley (213), and the tray drive motor (211) drives the timing pulley (213) to rotate; The timing belt (215) is connected to the tray base (202); the moving part of the slide rail (205) is connected to the tray base (202).

5. The polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips according to claim 4, characterized in that, The tray base (202) includes a snap-fit ​​base (221), and the snap-fit ​​(222) is rotatably connected to the snap-fit ​​base (221) so that the snap-fit ​​(222) can swing vertically. The first reset component is a tension spring (225), one end of which is connected to the buckle (222) and the other end is connected to the buckle base (221).

6. The polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips according to claim 5, characterized in that, The feeding device (200) also includes a switchable self-locking block (223), which is movably connected to the latching base (221); When the self-locking block (223) is in the locked state, the self-locking block (223) prevents the buckle (222) from rotating relative to the buckle base (221). When the self-locking block (223) is in the unlocked state, the self-locking block (223) releases the restriction on the buckle (222).

7. The polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips according to claim 6, characterized in that, The self-locking block (223) is connected to the latch base (221) via a second reset member, which is used to drive the self-locking block (223) into a locked state.

8. The polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips according to claim 7, characterized in that, The self-locking block (223) is rotatably connected to the buckle base (221), and the second reset member is a torsion spring (224) disposed between the self-locking block (223) and the buckle base (221). The buckle (222) is provided with a limit slot (2232); The self-locking block (223) has an abutment portion (2233) located on the movement path of the top rod (306) and a locking tongue (2231) located in the limiting groove (2232). When the locking tongue (2231) is located in the limiting groove (2232), the locking tongue (2231) prevents the buckle (222) from rotating. The self-locking block (223) is located above the buckle (222). During the descent of the push rod (306), it first contacts the abutment part (2233) of the self-locking block (223) to make the self-locking block (223) rotate, the locking tongue (2231) disengages from the limiting slot (2232), and the self-locking block (223) is in an unlocked state. Then, the push rod (306) passes the abutment part (2233) and abuts against the buckle (222).

9. The polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips according to claim 1, characterized in that, The squeeze unlocking device (300) includes an upper plate (301) and a lower plate (307). The upper plate (301) is provided with a vertically arranged linear bearing (302), and the lower plate (307) is provided with an optical axis (303) connected to the linear bearing (302). The rotating shaft and the push rod (306) are both connected to the lower pressure plate (307); The vertical drive module is mounted on the upper plate (301), and the drive end of the vertical drive module is connected to the lower pressure plate (307).

10. The polymerase chain reaction device for detecting microfluidic chips according to claim 9, characterized in that, The vertical drive module includes a down-pressing motor (316), a lead screw (315) extending laterally, a lead screw nut (314) connected to the lead screw (315), and a connecting rod assembly. A transmission plate (313) is fixed on the lead screw nut (314). The upper plate (301) is provided with a guide rail (318) parallel to the lead screw (315), and a slider (317) is slidably connected on the guide rail (318). The slider (317) is connected to the transmission plate (313). One end of the connecting rod assembly is connected to the transmission plate (313), and the other end is rotatably connected to the lower pressure plate (307) to convert the lateral thrust into the vertical thrust.

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