Thermal cycler

Abstract

According to the present invention, the thermal cycler comprises a thermal module which heats and cools a sample of a reaction container provided in a thermal block to perform thermal cycling, a lid assembly which is mounted a heat lid which heats the upper part of the reaction container and is able to move linearly and to rotate in a vertical direction, and a body assembly which has the thermal module mounted thereon and supports the lid assembly.

Description

THERMAL CYCLER

[0001] The present invention relates to a thermal cycler used for target analyte detection.

[0002] The importance of nucleic acid-based in vitro molecular diagnosis, such as accurate analysis of pathogens and genetic analysis of patients, is increasing as modern people's interest in health increases and their life expectancy is extended, and the demand for it is increasing. Nucleic acid-based molecular diagnosis is performed by extracting nucleic acids from a sample and then checking the presence or absence of a target nucleic acid among the extracted nucleic acids.

[0003] The Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the most widely used nucleic acid amplification reaction, including the denaturation of double-stranded DNA, annealing of oligonucleotide primers to DNA templates, and repeated cycle processes of primer extension by DNA polymerase.

[0004] A general real-time polymerase chain reaction (Real-Time PCR) device includes a thermal cycler provided at a lower portion to generate a nucleic acid amplification reaction, and an optics mechanism provided at an upper portion to analyze or monitor the nucleic acid amplification reaction in real time.

[0005] The denaturation of the DNA proceeds at about 95°C., and the annealing and extension of the primers proceeds at temperatures from 55°C to 75°C., which are lower than 95°C. Accordingly, the thermal cycler performs a nucleic acid amplification reaction of samples included in the reaction containers by repeating the process of raising and lowering the temperature of the reaction containers included in the thermal block. At this time, the heat provided to the thermal block is generated by the heat generating element, and the heat generated by the heat generating element is discharged to the outside through the heat sink.

[0006] One or more thermal cyclers in which the nucleic acid amplification reaction is generated are provided, and the optical device measures fluorescence generated from the reaction container in which the amplification reaction is generated by each thermal cycler.

[0007] In this background, an embodiment of the present invention provides a thermal cycler capable of easily carrying a reaction container into and out of a thermal block.

[0008] In addition, an embodiment of the present invention provides a thermal cycler capable of easily replacing or repairing a heat lid that transfers heat on a reaction container.

[0009] In addition, another embodiment of the present invention provides a target analyte detection device capable of improving detection reliability by increasing driving stability of an optical unit and reducing process time by increasing driving efficiency.

[0010] In addition, another embodiment of the present invention provides a thermal cycler that is easy to replace or repair by parts by classifying and arranging parts by function around an integrated assembly.

[0011] In accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a thermal cycler, including: a thermal module configured to perform thermal cycling by heating and cooling a sample of a reaction container provided in a thermal block; a lid assembly configured to be mounted with a heat lid for heating an upper portion of the reaction container, and which is configured to be capable of linear movement and rotation in a vertical direction; and a body assembly configured to be mounted with the thermal module, and to support the lid assembly.

[0012] Further, the lid assembly may be configured to move linearly in a horizontal direction over the body assembly to open an upper portion of the thermal block.

[0013] Further, the lid assembly may include the heat lid mounted on a bottom surface of the lid assembly, and is configured to tilt upward relative to the body assembly to expose a bottom surface of the heat lid forward.

[0014] Further, the lid assembly may include a locking device configured to fix a state in which the lid assembly is rotated upward.

[0015] Further, a rotation structure of the lid assembly may include a hinge including a shaft and a pinhole plate rotating together with the shaft and having one or more pinholes, and wherein the locking device includes a pin housing and a fixing pin movably disposed within the pin housing and selectively inserted into the pinhole.

[0016] Further, the pinhole plate may include a first pinhole and a second pinhole, wherein the first pinhole and the second pinhole positioned at a predetermined angle apart from each other at the same distance from the shaft, and wherein the fixing pin is configured to be inserted into the first pinhole when the lid assembly is closed and inserted into the second pinhole when the lid assembly is open.

[0017] Further, the hinge may further include an elastic member configured to provide an elastic force in a direction to insert the fixing pin into the pinhole, wherein the fixing pin is inserted into the pinhole by the elastic force of the elastic member to maintain a rotation state of the lid assembly when the lid assembly rotates upward and the pinhole moves to a position corresponding to the fixing pin, and wherein the lid assembly is converted into a state in which it can rotate in a reverse direction when an external force greater than the elastic force is applied in a direction opposite to the direction of elastic force provision of the elastic member and the fixing pin is separated from the pinhole.

[0018] Further, the thermal cycler may further include a lid guide member configured to guide the lid assembly to linearly move over the body assembly, wherein the lid guide member comprises a lid rail and a lid block configured to slide on the lid rail.

[0019] Further, the lid assembly may include a lid base unit movably coupled on the body assembly, and the lid base unit is configured to tilt relative to the body assembly.

[0020] Further, the lid base unit may include: a lower frame coupled on the body assembly to be linearly movable; an upper frame rotatably coupled to the lower frame; and a hinge rotatably connecting the lower frame and the upper frame.

[0021] Further, the thermal cycler may further include an optical unit configured to irradiate light to a sample of the reaction container and detect a target signal from the sample, wherein the lid assembly further comprises a moving unit on which the optical unit is mounted, wherein the moving unit is supported by the lid base unit and moves in y-axis direction, and wherein the optical unit is supported by the moving unit and moves in x-axis direction.

[0022] Further, the thermal cycler may further include a lid actuator configured to linearly drive the lid assembly, wherein the lid actuator is supported to the body assembly.

[0023] Further, the lid actuator may include: a lid driving motor; a lid power transmission unit connected to the lid driving motor; and a lid connection member connecting the lid power transmission unit and the lid assembly.

[0024] Further, the lid power transmission unit may include a screw shaft, a threaded nut coupled to the screw shaft, and a coupling connecting the lid driving motor and the screw shaft, and one side of the lid connection member may be connected to the threaded nut and the other side is connected to the lid assembly.

[0025] Further, the heat lid may be configured to be attachable and detachable from a bottom surface of the lid assembly, the thermal module is configured to ascend and descend, and the heat lid relatively presses the upper portion of the reaction container while the thermal module ascends.

[0026] Further, the thermal cycler may further include a height adjustment unit configured to raise and lower the thermal module, wherein the height adjustment unit may be connected to and disposed at one side of the thermal module.

[0027] Further, the thermal cycler may further include a controller configured to control driving of the lid assembly and the body assembly, wherein the controller may be configured to: linearly move the lid assembly over the thermal block to open upward the top surfaceof the thermal block when the thermal module is in a lowered position; linearly move the lid assembly in a reverse direction to return it over the thermal block when the reaction container is placed on the thermal block; and then raise the thermal module from the lowered position such that the heat lid relatively presses the upper portion of the reaction container.

[0028] Further, the lid assembly may be configured to be manually rotatable, allowing for repair or replacement of the heat lid in a state of being rotated upward.

[0029] In accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a thermal cycler including: a housing; a cover provided on an upper portion of the housing and configured to open and clos to allow a reaction container to be inserted into and removed from an upper portion of the housing; a thermal module configured to perform thermal cycling by heating and cooling a sample of the reaction container provided in a thermal block; an optical unit configured to irradiate light onto the sample of the reaction container and detect a target signal from the sample; a body assembly including a body frame on which the thermal module is mounted; a heat lid configured to heat an upper portion of the reaction container; and a lid assembly configured to mount the heat lid and the optical unit and be supported on the body assembly, wherein the heat lid is mounted on a bottom surface of the lid assembly, wherein the lid assembly is configured to move linearly in a horizontal direction over the body assembly to open an upper portion of the thermal block through an opening opened by the cover, and to rotate upward relative to the body assembly to expose a bottom surface of the heat lid forward.

[0030] In accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for detecting a target analyte, the apparatus including: a lid base unit positioned above a thermal block having recesses formed in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular thereto; a support frame coupled onto the lid base unit to be movable in the second direction; an optical unit configured to irradiate light onto a sample provided in the recess of the thermal block and to detect a target signal from the sample, the optical unit being connected to the support frame to be movable in the first direction relative to the support frame; a first axis driving motor configured to provide a driving force for moving the optical unit in the first direction; and a second axis driving motor configured to provide a driving force for moving the support frame in the second direction, wherein the first axis driving motor and the second axis driving motor are each supported on the support frame.

[0031] In accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a thermal cycler including: an input / output module including a display and an input device; an integrated assembly including a body assembly on which a thermal module for performing thermal cycling by heating and cooling a sample of a reaction container provided in a thermal block is mounted, and a lid assembly on which an optical unit for irradiating light to the sample of the reaction container and detecting a target signal from the sample is mounted; a lid linear driving module configured to move linearly the lid assembly on the body assembly; an integrated control module configured to control a thermal control board for controlling the thermal module and an optical control board for controlling the optical unit; and a first power supply module configured to supply power to the thermal module, wherein the input / output module, the lid linear driving module, the integrated control module, and the first power supply module are respectively located at any one of a front side, a rear side, a right side, and a left side of the integrated assembly.

[0032] 1: According to an embodiment of the present invention, the lid assembly on which the optical unit is mounted may open the upper part of the thermal block while linearly moving, and it may be easy to place the reaction container on the thermal block or separate the reaction container from the thermal block through the open area. In particular, when the reaction container is transported using the robot arm, the effect may be great.

[0033] In addition, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the lid assembly on which the heat lid is mounted may be rotated by a predetermined angle or more to expose the lower portion of the heat lid to the operator, thereby making it easy to replace or repair the heat lid.

[0034] 2: In addition, according to another embodiment of the present invention, by adopting a structure capable of both linear movement and rotation of the lid assembly, both the transport convenience of the reaction container and maintenance of the heat lid may be easy.

[0035] In addition, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the moving speed of the optical unit may be improved through the efficient arrangement of the driving device for driving the optical unit. In addition, durability may be improved by reducing the load of the driving device for driving the optical unit.

[0036] In addition, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to improve detection reliability by minimizing shaking or height displacement while driving the optical unit.

[0037] 3: In addition, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the components are classified and arranged by function around the integrated assembly, so that the maintenance of the components may be easy.

[0038] In addition, according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, the housing may be provided to be individually separable for each position, and a portion of the housing may be separated from any one position to perform maintenance of any one component disposed in a state classified for each function. For example, in order to maintain the integrated control module, all operations may be performed in a state in which one side of the housing is opened, and in order to maintain the power supply module of the thermal module, all operations may be performed in a state in which the rear surface of the housing is opened.

[0039] It should be understood that the effects of the present invention are not limited to the above-described effects, and include all effects that can be inferred from the detailed description of the present invention or the configuration of the invention described in the claims.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a thermal cycler according to an embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the thermal cycler of FIG. 1.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the lid assembly of the thermal cycler of FIG. 1 has moved.

[0043] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a lid assembly according to an embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the lid assembly of FIG. 4.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the lid assembly of FIG. 4 when viewed from above.

[0046] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a lid base unit according to an embodiment when viewed from above.

[0047] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the lid base unit of FIG. 7 when viewed from below.

[0048] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a hinge according to an embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view illustrating an open state of a lid assembly in FIG. 9.

[0050] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a locking device according to an embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a body assembly according to an embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a controller according to an embodiment.

[0053] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to embodiments and exemplary drawings. These examples are only for explaining the present invention in more detail, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the scope of the present invention is not limited by these embodiments according to the gist of the present invention.

[0054] In addition, in adding reference numerals to the components of each drawing, it should be noted that the same components have the same reference numerals as much as possible even if they are shown in different drawings. In addition, in describing the present disclosure, when it is determined that a detailed description of related known configurations or functions may obscure the gist of the present disclosure, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0055] In addition, in describing the components of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), (i), and (ii) may be used. Such terms are only used to distinguish the constituent elements from other constituent elements, and the essence, sequence, or order of the constituent elements are not limited by the terms. When a component is described as "connected", "coupled", or "connected" to another component, the component may be directly connected to or connected to the other component, but it may be understood that another component may be "connected", "coupled", or "connected" between each component.

[0056] An embodiment of the present specification may relate to a detection device for detecting a target analyte in a sample.

[0057] Herein, "samples" may include biological samples (e.g., cells, tissues, and fluids from biological sources) and non-biological samples (e.g., food, water, and soil). The biological sample may be viruses, bacteria, tissues, cells, blood (e.g., whole blood, plasma, and serum), lymph, bone marrow fluid, saliva, sputum, swap, aspiration, milk, urine, feces, eye fluid, semen, brain extracts, spinal fluid, joint fluid, thymus fluid, bronchial lavage fluid, ascites, and amniotic fluid. In addition, the sample may include natural nucleic acid molecules and synthetic nucleic acid molecules isolated from a biological source. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sample may include an additional material such as water, deionized water, saline, pH buffer, an acidic solution, or a basic solution.

[0058] In the present specification, a sample may include a material necessary for detecting a target analyte. For example, the sample may include an optical marker. The optical label refers to a label that generates an optical signal according to the presence of a target nucleic acid. The optical marker may be a fluorescent marker. The fluorescent label useful in the present specification may include any molecule known in the art.

[0059] A target analyte refers to an analyte to be analyzed. The analysis may mean, for example, obtaining information on the presence, content, concentration, sequence, activity, or characteristics of an analyte in a sample. The analyte may include various materials (e.g., non-biological materials such as biological materials and compounds). Specifically, the analyte may include a nucleic acid molecule (e.g., DNA and RNA), a protein, a peptide, a carbohydrate, a lipid, an amino acid, a biological compound, a hormone, an antibody, an antigen, a metabolite, and a biological material such as a cell. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the analyte may be a nucleic acid molecule.

[0060] Therefore, the target analyte detection device according to an embodiment of the present specification may be a target nucleic acid detection device. The target nucleic acid detection device allows a nucleic acid reaction in a sample to proceed, and detects a target nucleic acid through this.

[0061] A nucleic acid reaction refers to a series of physical and chemical reactions that generate signals depending on the presence or amount of a specific sequence of nucleic acids in a sample. The nucleic acid reaction may be a reaction including binding of a nucleic acid of a specific sequence in a sample to another nucleic acid or substance, cloning, cleavage, or degradation of a nucleic acid of a specific sequence in the sample. The nucleic acid reaction may be a reaction involving a nucleic acid amplification reaction. The nucleic acid amplification reaction may include amplification of a target nucleic acid. The nucleic acid amplification reaction may be a reaction that specifically amplifies a target nucleic acid.

[0062] The nucleic acid reaction may be a signal-generating reaction that is a reaction capable of generating a signal dependent on the presence / absence or amount of a target nucleic acid in a sample. These signal-generating responses may be genetic analytical processes such as PCR, real-time PCR, or microarrays.

[0063] The thermal cycler according to an embodiment of the present specification may be a nucleic acid detection device, and may detect a signal generated depending on the presence of a target nucleic acid. The nucleic acid detection device may amplify and detect a signal by accompanying nucleic acid amplification. Alternatively, the nucleic acid detection device may amplify and detect a signal without accompanying nucleic acid amplification. Preferably, a signal is detected by accompanying nucleic acid amplification.

[0064] The thermal cycler according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a nucleic acid amplification device.

[0065] The nucleic acid amplification device refers to a device capable of performing a nucleic acid amplification reaction for amplifying a nucleic acid having a specific nucleotide sequence. Examples of the nucleic acid amplification method include a polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a ligase chain reaction (LCR), a transcription-mediated amplification, a nucleotide sequence-based amplification (NASBA), rolling circle amplification (RCA), and a Q-beta replicase.

[0066] The thermal cycler according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be a device that performs a nucleic acid amplification reaction while accompanying a change in temperature. For example, in order to amplify a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) having a specific base sequence, the nucleic acid amplification device may perform a denaturing step, an annealing step, and an extension step.

[0067] The denaturation step is a step of separating double-stranded DNA into single-stranded DNA by heating a solution including a sample and a reagent including double-stranded DNA, which is a template nucleic acid, to a specific temperature, for example, about 95°C. The annealing step is a step of providing an oligonucleotide primer having a nucleotide sequence complementary to a nucleotide sequence of a nucleic acid to be amplified, and cooling to a specific temperature, for example, 60°C. with the isolated single-stranded DNA to bind the primer to the specific nucleotide sequence of the single-stranded DNA to form a partial DNA-primer complex. In the extension step, the solution is maintained at a specific temperature, e.g., 72°C., after the annealing step to form double-stranded DNA based on the primers of the partial DNA-primer complex by DNA polymerase.

[0068] The DNA having the specific nucleotide sequence may be amplified exponentially by repeating the above-described three steps, for example, 10 to 50 times. In some cases, the nucleic acid amplification device may simultaneously perform the annealing step and the extension step. In this case, the nucleic acid amplification device may complete one cycle by performing two steps consisting of a denaturation step and an annealing / extension step.

[0069] In particular, the thermal cycler according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be an apparatus for performing a nucleic acid amplification reaction and a reaction for generating an optical signal depending on the presence of a nucleic acid while accompanying a change in temperature, and detecting the generated optical signal.

[0070]

[0071] The thermal cycler according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a thermal module, an optical module, and an integrated control module. The optical module may include a light emitting device and a detection device.

[0072] The light emitting device according to an embodiment supplies an appropriate optical stimulus to the sample accommodated in the sample holder, and the detection device detects an optical signal generated from the sample in response thereto.

[0073] The optical signal may be luminescence, phosphorescence, chemiluminescence, fluorescence, polarized fluorescence, or another colored signal. The optical signal may be an optical signal that gives an optical stimulus to a sample and is generated in response thereto.

[0074] The thermal module according to an embodiment may perform thermal cycling while applying heat to the sample holder and cooling the sample holder. For example, the thermal module may perform a nucleic acid amplification reaction of the sample while performing thermal cycling.

[0075] The sample holder is formed with a sample receiving portion for receiving a sample. The sample holder is a component that directly receives a sample in a sample receiving portion or receives a reaction container containing the sample. When the sample holder directly receives the sample, the sample holder may be referred to as a reaction container.

[0076] In the present specification, the expression "the sample holder may accommodate a sample" may be used to comprehensively indicate a case in which the sample holder directly accommodates a sample in the sample accommodating portion or accommodates a reaction container including the sample.

[0077] The sample holder positions the sample at a predetermined position so that an optical stimulus from the light emitting device reaches the sample and an optical signal generated from the sample reaches the detection device.

[0078] The sample holder may be supplied with heat from the thermal element, and the heat may be transferred to the sample directly accommodated in the sample holder or the sample accommodated in the reaction container.

[0079] The sample holder may have a block or plate shape. The sample holder may include a recess accommodating the reaction container or may have a flat surface. Alternatively, the recess formed in the sample holder may be provided in the form of a well or may be a hole passing through the sample holder.

[0080] In addition, the sample holder accommodating the reaction container may have a structure capable of guiding the position of the reaction container or seating the reaction container.

[0081] One sample holder may be provided to accommodate one or more reaction containers. That the sample holder accommodates the reaction containers may mean a state in which the reaction containers are placed in a plurality of recesses formed in the sample holder or a state in which the reaction containers are placed in an assigned position on the sample holder.

[0082] The reaction container is used to receive a sample to be analyzed and includes various types of vessels, for example, a tube, a vial, a strip to which a plurality of single tubes are connected, a plate to which a plurality of tubes are connected, a microcard, a chip, a cuvette or a cartridge.

[0083] The reaction container may be made of plastic, ceramic, glass, or metal. In addition, the reaction container may be made of various materials as needed. The sample holder for directly accommodating the sample in the sample accommodating portion may be provided with the shape and material of the reaction container described above. Hereinafter, a sample holder accommodating a reaction container including a sample will be described.

[0084] The sample holder may be made of a material having thermal conductivity. When the sample holder contacts the reaction container, heat can be transferred to the sample by the reaction container conduction method. In some cases, it includes the transfer of heat from the reaction container to the sample by convection or radiation.

[0085] The sample holder may be made of iron, aluminum, gold, silver, nickel, copper, or an alloy including one or more thereof. In addition, the sample holder may be made of various materials as needed, and in some cases, may be made of plastic or ceramic.

[0086] The sample holder may include a thermal block. Thermal blocks include various sizes and shapes used in the same or similar technical fields.

[0087] The sample holder is formed to accommodate a plurality of samples, and controls the temperature of the plurality of samples to allow a reaction for detection, such as a nucleic acid amplification reaction, to occur. For example, when the sample holder is a thermal block in which a plurality of wells are formed, the wells of the thermal block may not be thermally independent of each other. In this case, the temperatures of the wells of the thermal block are the same within an error range, and the temperatures of the received samples cannot be adjusted according to different protocols.

[0088] As another example, the sample holder may be configured to adjust a temperature of some of the samples accommodated in the sample holder according to different protocols. To this end, the sample holder may include two or more thermally independent reaction zones. Each reaction zone may be thermally independent. Heat does not move from one reaction zone to another, or heat below the standard level moves. For example, an insulating material or an air gap may exist between the reaction zones.

[0089] The temperature of each of the reaction zones may be independently controlled. The user may individually set a reaction protocol including temperature and time for each of the reaction zones, and each of the reaction zones may perform a reaction by an independent protocol. Since the reaction is performed in the reaction zones according to an independent protocol, the light detection times in the reaction zones may be independent of each other.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the sample holder may be divided into a plurality of sample areas. The sample area is an area divided by an excitation light irradiation area of the light emitting device.

[0091] The light emitting device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a plurality of light source elements, and the sample holder may be divided into a plurality of sample areas. Each of the plurality of sample regions refers to a region on a sample holder in which samples in which an optical signal detection reaction is performed by the same light source element are located. In other words, the sample region of the present disclosure refers to a group of reaction sites in which an optical signal detection reaction is performed by the same light source element among a plurality of reaction sites included in the sample holder. That is, the sample area is an area divided by the excitation light irradiation area of the light source element. One or more wells or holes may be formed in each sample area.

[0092] According to an embodiment, when the sample holder is a thermal block, there may be an empty space formed between the wells to reduce the heat capacity. For example, a groove or a hole may be formed between the wells of the thermal block to reduce the heat capacity. In addition, the heat capacities of the middle region and the edge region of the thermal block are designed to be different from each other, thereby reducing the edge effect. The edge effect refers to a phenomenon in which the temperature rises later when heating in the edge area than in the middle area of the thermal block, and the temperature drops faster when cooling.

[0093] According to an embodiment, the sample holder may have a plurality of wells or a plurality of holes formed in a regular arrangement. For example, the plurality of wells may be formed in a matrix form forming columns and rows. The plurality of wells may be formed in various forms such as a 4 x 4 form of 16-well, a 6 x 4 form of 24-well, a 4 x 8 form of 32-well, a 5 x 12 form of 60-well, a 5 x 18 form of 90-well, an 8 x 12 form of 96-well, or a 16 x 24 form of 384-well, and the sample holder may be mainly used with 16-well, 32-well, 96-well, or 384-well. The shape, size, and the like of the wells may be determined to be suitable for the reaction container to be accommodated.

[0094] According to an embodiment, the sample holder may be divided into a plurality of thermal zones. The thermal area is an area defined according to the arrangement of a thermal element or a thermistor. The thermal area may be a physically divided area, but may be a virtual area divided for convenience of temperature control.

[0095]

[0096] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings in order to easily implement the present disclosure by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0097] FIGS. 1 to 3 illustrate a thermal cycler according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a thermal cycler, and FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the thermal cycler. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a lid assembly is moved.

[0098] Hereinafter, the x-axis direction may be used in the same direction as the first direction, the longitudinal direction of the thermal block, or the row direction of the well plate, the y-axis direction may be used in the same direction as the second direction, the width direction of the thermal block, or the column direction of the well plate, and the z-axis direction may be used in the same direction as the vertical direction.

[0099] The thermal cycler according to an embodiment may include a thermal module 300 and a heat lid 1300. The thermal module 300 may include a thermal block on which a reaction container is seated. The thermal module 300 may perform thermal cycling by heating and cooling a sample of the reaction container provided in the thermal block. The heat lid 1300 may press and heat an upper portion of the reaction container. Herein, the pressurization of the heat lid 1300 includes cases where the heat lid 1300 is fixed and the upper part of the reaction vessel is pressurized against the heat lid 1300 as the thermal block ascends.

[0100] The thermal cycler according to an embodiment may include a lid assembly 1000 and a body assembly 2000 which supports the lid assembly 1000. The lid assembly 1000 is mounted the heat lid 1300, and a body assembly 2000 is mounted the thermal module 300. The lid assembly 1000 may be capable of linear movement and rotation using the hinge 1130. The thermal cycler may include an integrated assembly in which the lid assembly 1000 is coupled to the body assembly 2000.

[0101] The thermal cycler according to an embodiment may further include an optical unit 200. The optical unit 200 includes a light source for irradiating light to a sample and a detection device for detecting a target signal from the sample. The optical unit 200 irradiates light to a reaction container using the light source and receives light reflected from the detection device to detect the target signal.

[0102] In the lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment, the optical unit 200 and the heat lid 1300 may be mounted. The optical unit 200 may move in the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction. Here, the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction may be directions parallel to the ground. Alternatively, the optical unit 200 may move in the row direction and the column direction of the well plate seated on the thermal block. Here, the row direction may be parallel to the x-axis direction or the first direction, and the column direction may be parallel to the y-axis direction or the second direction.

[0103] The optical unit 200 may transmit and receive optical signals to and from the plurality of wells while moving in the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction. When the reaction container is a 96-well plate, the optical unit 200 may supply an optical signal to 96 wells and sense an optical signal emitted from the well while alternately moving in a row direction and a column direction on the matrix-shaped wells provided in 8 rows and 12 columns.

[0104] The optical unit 200 may be referred to as an optical shuttle. The optical module may be used as a concept including the optical unit 200 and an optical control board 1250. For example, the lid assembly 1000 includes a frame, an optical module, a heat lid 1300, and an optical driving device, and the optical module includes an optical unit 200 and the optical control board 1250.

[0105]

[0106] In the body assembly 2000 according to an embodiment, the thermal module 300 may be mounted. The body assembly 2000 may support the lid assembly 1000 at an upper portion thereof.

[0107] In the body assembly 2000 according to an embodiment, the thermal module 300 may be detachably mounted. For example, the body assembly 2000 may include a pocket in which a space for accommodating the thermal module 300 is provided, and the thermal module 300 may be detachably coupled to the pocket. Here, the 'coupling' includes a thing supported by gravity in addition to a mechanical coupling.

[0108] In an embodiment, the body assembly 2000 may have the thermal module 300 movably mounted thereon. The thermal module 300 may be movable towards or away from the heat lid 1300. The thermal module 300 may be movable in an up-down direction or in a vertical direction. The thermal module 300 moves closer to the heat lid 1300 with the reaction container seated in the thermal block, and the upper part of the reaction container contacts the heat lid 1300. While the reaction container is in contact with the heat lid 1300, the thermal module 300 may continue to move to provide pressure to the reaction container. Hearin, the meaning of "the heat lid may pressurize the upper portion of the reaction container" above includes the meaning of "the heat lid may pressurize the upper portion of the reaction container as a reaction to the force by which the thermal module ascends."

[0109] The thermal module 300 may be used as a concept including a thermal unit and a thermal control board. For example, the body assembly 2000 includes a frame, a thermal module 300, and a thermal driving device, and the thermal module 300 includes a thermal unit and a thermal control board. The thermal control board may be referred to as a thermal control unit, and the thermal module 300 may have a form in which a thermal unit and a thermal control unit are combined.

[0110]

[0111] Hereinafter, the lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the lid assembly 1000 viewed from the front, FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the lid assembly viewed from the back, and FIG. 6 is a plan view of the lid assembly viewed from the top.

[0112]

[0113] [Lid assembly]

[0114] The lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment may be linearly moved and rotated on the body assembly 2000. And the lid assembly 1000 may be linearly moved in a horizontal direction on the body assembly 2000. And the lid assembly 1000 may be rotated in a vertical direction on the body assembly 2000. Also the lid assembly 1000 may be tiled or rotated using a hinge on the body assembly 2000.

[0115] The lid assembly 1000 may linear move or rotate independently. In some cases, the lid assembly 1000 may also linearly move and rotate simultaneously. For example, in a general operation situation, the lid assembly 1000 may perform reciprocation linear motion and, if necessary, additionally rotate. The lid assembly 1000 may linearly move over the body assembly 2000 to open the upper portion of the thermal block. In addition, the lid assembly 1000 may rotate or tilt upward with respect to the body assembly 2000 to expose the heat lid 1300, which is mounted on its bottom surface, forward.

[0116] The lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment may include a lid base unit 1100 coupled to be linearly movable on the body assembly 2000, a moving unit 1200 coupled to be linearly movable on the lid base unit 1100, an optical unit 200 including a light source and a detector, and a heat lid 1300 including a heating means. The heat lid 1300 may be mounted on the lid base unit 1100, and the optical unit 200 may be mounted on the moving unit 1200.

[0117]

[0118] [Lid base unit]

[0119] Hereinafter, a lid base unit according to an embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a lid base unit according to an embodiment viewed from above, and FIG. 8 is a perspective view viewed from below. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a hinge according to an embodiment.

[0120] The lid base unit (1100) is coupled onto the body assembly (2000). The lid base unit 1100 may be coupled to be linearly movable in the second direction onto the body assembly 2000. Furthermore, the lid base unit 1100 may be rotatable about the first direction axis on the body assembly 2000. Here, the lid base unit 1100 may comprising a rotation structure including the hinge 1130.

[0121] The lid base unit 1100 according to an embodiment may include a lower frame 1110 coupled to be linearly movable on the body assembly 2000, an upper frame 1120 rotatably coupled to the lower frame 1110, and a hinge 1130 rotatably connecting the upper frame 1120 on the lower frame 1110.

[0122] The lower frame 1110 may be provided with a fixed hinge bracket 1111 to which the hinge 1130 is rotatably coupled at the rear in the second direction. The upper frame 1120 may be provided with a rotating hinge bracket 1121 coupled to the hinge 1130 and rotating together at the rear in the second direction. The fixed hinge bracket 1111 may allow the hinge 1130 to rotate independently, and may maintain a fixed state while the hinge 1130 rotates. The rotating hinge bracket 1121 may be provided to be dependent on the rotation of the hinge 1130 and may rotate together with the hinge 1130.

[0123] The upper frame 1120 may be rotatably coupled to the lower frame 1110. The upper frame 1120 may be tilted relative to the lower frame 1110. The rotating hinge bracket 1121 may be provided at a central portion of the upper frame 1120 in the first direction, and may be located between a pair of fixed hinge brackets 1111. In addition, the rotating hinge bracket 1121 may be mechanically coupled to the upper frame 1120. For example, the upper frame 1120 may form a coupling portion of the hinge 1130 that is bent upward in the vertical direction from the rear in the second direction and bent backward again, and the rotating hinge bracket 1121 may be coupled to the coupling portion of the hinge 1130. Alternatively, the rotating hinge bracket 1121 may be integrally formed with the upper frame 1120.

[0124] The rotating hinge bracket 1121 may include a shape extending in the first direction between the pair of fixed hinge brackets 1111. Alternatively, a pair of rotating hinge brackets 1121 may be provided to be spaced apart from each other at both edges in the first direction.

[0125] The rotating hinge bracket 1121 may include a pair of first portions positioned inside the fixed hinge bracket 1111 and rotatably coupled to the hinge 1130, and a second portion connecting the first portions on both sides in the first direction. The second portion may be coupled to a coupling portion of the hinge 1130 of the upper frame 1120.

[0126] The heat lid 1300 may be coupled to the upper frame 1120. The upper frame 1120 is provided with an opening exposing the heating region of the heat lid 1300, and an edge of the heat lid 1300 is coupled to a peripheral portion of the opening of the upper frame 1120. The heat lid 1300 may be coupled to and separated from the lower portion of the upper frame 1120.

[0127] The lower frame 1110 is provided with an opening exposing the heating region of the heat lid 1300. The heat lid 1300 may be in contact with an upper portion of the reaction container through the opening of the lower frame 1110.

[0128] The lid assembly 1000 may be coupled to be linearly movable in the second direction on the body assembly 2000, and may be linearly moved to open the upper portion of the thermal block. Here, the opening of the upper part includes the meaning of not interfering vertically upward. For example, the lid assembly 1000 may linearly move in the second direction of the body assembly 2000. The lid assembly 1000 may open a part of the upper portion or the entire upper portion of the thermal block while linearly moving in the second direction of the body assembly 2000. In addition, the lid assembly 1000 may automatically linearly move. For example, the lid assembly 1000 may be operated by a driving motor, and the driving motor may include an electric type, a hydraulic type, and a pneumatic type.

[0129] According to an embodiment, the thermal cycler may use a servo motor as a driving motor. The servo motor can monitor and control the current position and speed in real time using the feedback system, and can accurately control the position without overshooting. In addition, it is possible to output high-speed high torque than the step motor. And it can operate smoothly even at low speeds, reducing vibration and noise. And it consumes less power due to its high energy efficiency. Alternatively, the thermal cycler may use a step motor as a driving motor.

[0130] In a state in which the lid assembly 1000 moves to open a part or all of the upper part of the thermal block, the operator or the robot arm may put the reaction container on the thermal block. When the lid assembly 1000 returns to close the upper portion of the thermal block, the thermal cycler performs thermal cycling. When the detection of the target analyte is completed, the lid assembly 1000 may move to open some or all of the upper portion of the thermal block and the operator or robot arm may pick up the reaction container from the thermal block.

[0131] In the case of the automated thermal cycler, the reaction container may be transferred in a state of being held by the robot arm to be mounted on and detached from the thermal block. In this way, when the reaction container is transferred using the robot arm, the lid assembly 1000 may operate to open the entire upper portion of the thermal block. Thereafter, the robot arm may place the reaction container on the thermal block vertically upward or pick up the reaction container from the thermal block, thereby reducing the risk of collision or interference and shortening the working time.

[0132]

[0133] [Lid guide member]

[0134] The lid base unit 1100 may be coupled to an upper portion of the body assembly 2000 to be linearly movable. In an embodiment, a lid guide member 2120 for guiding linear movement may be provided between the lid base unit 1100 and the body assembly 2000.

[0135] The lid guide member 2120 may include a pair of lid rails mounted on both upper edges of the body assembly 2000 and extending in the second direction, and a pair of lid blocks provided to be movable on the lid rails. The lid base unit 1100 may be coupled to the lid block. Alternatively, the coupling position of the lid rail and the lid block may be opposite to this.

[0136] The lid block may be coupled to lower surfaces of both edges of the lower frame 1110 in the first direction. The lid base unit 1100 coupled to the lid block while the lid block linearly moves on the lid rail may also linearly move in the second direction with respect to the body base unit 2100.

[0137] The lid guide member 2120 may include an LM guide. The lid rail may include a LM guide rail, and the lid block may include a LM block. The LM guide may employ a technique known in the art.

[0138] The linear movement of the lid assembly 1000 may be automatically operated by the lid actuator 2130. The lid actuator 2130 according to an embodiment may include a lid driving motor 2131 and a lid power transmission unit for converting a rotational motion of the lid driving motor 2131 into a linear motion. In addition, the lid actuator 2130 may include a linear motor capable of being linearly driven, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or the like.

[0139] The lid driving motor 2131 includes an electric motor, and the electric motor includes a rotor and a stator to generate power using electric energy. The lid driving motor 2131 may control the position of the lid power transmission unit based on an input signal of the control board.

[0140] The lid power transmission unit may convert the rotational motion of the lid driving motor 2131 into a linear motion and transmit the linear motion to the lid assembly 1000. The lid power transmission unit according to an embodiment may include a screw-nut structure. The screw-nut structure may convert rotational motion of the shaft into linear motion of the nut. In addition, the lid power transmission unit may include a rack and pinion structure, a belt structure, or a worm-gear structure.

[0141] The lid actuator 2130 may be connected to the lid assembly 1000 in a state of being fixed or supported by the body assembly 2000. The lid actuator 2130 may be fixed or supported by the body assembly 2000 rather than the lid assembly 1000, thereby reducing the weight of the lid assembly 1000. When the weight of the lid assembly 1000 is reduced, rapid linear movement is possible, and the specification of the lid actuator 2130 is lowered to lower the production cost or improve the durability of the lid actuator 2130.

[0142] The lid driving motor 2131 may be fixed to or supported by a frame of the body assembly 2000 through a bracket. For example, the lid driving motor 2131 may be provided at the rear of the thermal module 300 and may be located adjacent to the side frame of the body base unit 2100.

[0143] The lid power transmission unit may include a screw shaft, a coupling 2133 for transmitting the rotational force of the lid driving motor 2131 to the screw shaft 2134, a screw thread nut 2135 linearly moving along the screw shaft 2134 when the screw shaft 2134 rotates, and a lid connection member 2136 for connecting the screw thread nut 2135 and the lid assembly 1000.

[0144] The screw shaft 2134 may be disposed in the second direction. Both sides of the screw shaft 2134 may be supported by a support unit coupled to the frame of the body assembly 2000. The support unit may allow rotation of the screw shaft 2134 while supporting the screw shaft 2134, and for example, a ball bearing or a roller may be provided.

[0145] The screw shaft 2134 is threaded on its outer circumferential surface and is also referred to as a threaded shaft or a lead shaft. The screw thread nut 2135 screwed with the screw shaft 2134 may also have a screw thread formed on the inner circumferential surface thereof. According to an embodiment, the screw shaft 2134 and the thread nut 2135 may have a ball screw structure.

[0146] The lid connection member 2136 extends in the vertical direction to connect the lid assembly 1000 located above and the screw nut 2135 located below. According to an embodiment, one side of the lid connection member 2136 is connected to the screw thread nut 2135 and the other side is connected to the lid block of the lid guide member 2120. In this case, a slit allowing movement of the lid connection member 2136 may be formed in the upper frame of the body base unit 2100. The slit through which the lid connection member 2136 moves may be provided parallel to the lid rail of the lid guide member 2120.

[0147]

[0148] [Hinge]

[0149] The lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment may be rotatably coupled upward with respect to the body assembly 2000. Here, the rotation may include rotation using the hinge 1130. For example, the lid assembly 1000 may be pivoted about a pivot axis extending in the first direction. The pivot axis may be located at one side of the lid assembly 1000 in the second direction, and may be located, for example, behind the y-axis direction.

[0150] The lid assembly 1000 may rotate at 90 degrees or more with respect to the body assembly 2000 by using the hinge 1130, and may rotate more than 90 degrees for safety. In addition, the lid assembly 1000 may be fixed in a state of being rotated at the maximum angle (e.g., 95 degrees), and it is possible to prevent the operator's hand from being injured or the device from being damaged while the lid assembly 1000 is falling in the reverse rotation direction.

[0151] The hinge 1130 may include a frame 1132 and a pair of shafts 1131 extending in the x-axis direction.

[0152] The frame 1132 may include a transverse portion 1132a coupled to the upper frame 1120 or the lower frame 1110 and extending in the x-axis direction, and a longitudinal portion 1132b bent from the transverse portion 1132a to form an yz plane and coupled to the shaft 1131. The shaft 1131 may be vertically coupled to the longitudinal portion 1132b.

[0153] The hinge 1130 according to an embodiment may be coupled to one side of the lower frame 1110. A fixed hinge bracket 1111 to which the hinge 1130 is coupled may be provided at the rear of the lower frame 1110 in the second direction. A pair of fixed hinge brackets 1111 may be provided at both edges of the lower frame 1110 in the first direction. In addition, the fixed hinge bracket 1111 may be integrally formed with the lower frame 1110. For example, the fixed hinge bracket 1111 may be bent vertically upward from both sides of the rear of the lower frame 1110 extending in the xy-axis direction to form the y yz plane.

[0154] The hinge 1130 according to an embodiment may be coupled to one side of the upper frame 1120. A rotating hinge bracket 1121 to which the hinge 1130 is coupled may be provided at the rear of the upper frame 1120 in the second direction. The rotating hinge bracket 1121 may extend in the first direction. In addition, the rotating hinge bracket 1121 may be integrally formed with the lower frame 1110. For example, the rotating hinge bracket 1121 may be bent vertically from the rear end of the upper frame 1120 extending in the xy y-axis direction and then bent again in the y-axis direction to form the xy plane.

[0155] In the hinge 1130 according to an embodiment, the transverse portion 1132a of the frame 1132 is fixedly coupled to the rotating hinge bracket 1121 of the upper frame 1120, and the longitudinal portion 1132b of the frame 1132 faces the fixed hinge bracket 1111 positioned at both edges of the lower frame 1110 in the first direction. The shaft 1131 is coupled to the fixed hinge bracket 1111 and the end portion. The shaft 1131 may be rotatably coupled to the fixed hinge bracket 1111 through a bearing, or may be rotatably coupled to the longitudinal portion 1132b through a bearing.

[0156]

[0157] [Locking device]

[0158] Hereinafter, the locking device will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. 10 is an enlarged view illustrating a state in which a lid assembly is opened in FIG. 9, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a locking device according to an embodiment.

[0159] The lid assembly 1000 may further include a locking device 1140 for fixing the rotation state of the hinge 1130. The locking device 1140 may fix a state in which the lid assembly 1000 is rotated upward. Alternatively, the locking device 1140 may fix the state in which the lid assembly 1000 is placed on the body assembly 2000 and the state in which it is rotated upward, respectively.

[0160] The locking device 1140 may fix a state in which the hinge 1130 is rotated at a predetermined angle. The locking device 1140 may selectively limit rotation of the shaft 1131. The meaning of 'selectively restricting the rotation of the shaft' means that 'rotation may be restricted when the shaft rotates at a predetermined angle, and rotation may be allowed when an external force is applied'. The locking device 1140 may be provided on only one side of the pair of shafts 1131.

[0161] The locking device 1140 according to an embodiment may include a pinhole plate 1132b having one or more pinholes 1132c, a pin housing 1143 located at one side of the pinhole plate 1132b, and a fixing pin 1144 movably provided in the pin housing 1143 and selectively inserted into the pinhole 1132c.

[0162] The pinhole plate 1132b may be provided to rotate together with the hinge 1130. In this case, the pin housing 1143 and the fixing pin 1144 may be independently provided for rotation of the shaft 1131 and fixed in a rotation direction. Alternatively, the pinhole plate 1132b may be provided independently of the rotation of the shaft and fixed in the rotation direction. In this case, the pin housing 1143 and the fixing pin 1144 may rotate together with the shaft 1131.

[0163] The pinhole plate 1132b may extend radially around the shaft 1131 and may include one or more pinholes 1132c. The pinhole 1132c may move to a position corresponding to the fixing pin 1144 of the pin housing 1143 when the shaft 1131 of the hinge 1130 rotates by 90 degrees or more. When the hinge 1130 rotates by 90 degrees or more, the pinhole 1132c is positioned in front of the fixing pin 1144, and the fixing pin 1144 is inserted into the pinhole 1132c to lock the rotation of the hinge 1130.

[0164] The pinhole plate 1132b according to an embodiment may be integrally formed with the frame 1132 of the hinge 1130. The pinhole plate 1132b may be a portion of the longitudinal portion 1132b of the frame 1132.

[0165] The pinhole plate 1132b may include two or more pinholes 1132c positioned at the same distance from the shaft 1131 and spaced apart from each other at an angle of 90 degrees or more. For example, the pinhole plate 1132b may include a first pinhole and a second pinhole, and the first pinhole and the second pinhole may be spaced apart from each other at a predetermined angle at the same distance from the shaft 1131. Alternatively, the pinhole plate 1132b may include three or more pinholes, comprising a first pinhole and a second pinhole, wherein a third pinhole may be located at the same distance from the shaft 1131 as the first pinhole and the second pinhole, and may be positioned between the first pinhole and the second pinhole or at an angle larger than that of the second pinhole from the first pinhole.

[0166] In a state in which the lid assembly 1000 is closed, that is, in a state in which the lid base unit 1100 is placed on the body base unit 2100, the fixing pin 1144 may be inserted into the first pinhole. In addition, the fixing pin 1144 may be inserted into the second pinhole in a state in which the lid assembly 1000 is opened, that is, in a state in which the lid base unit 1100 is rotated by 90 degrees or more with respect to the body base unit 2100.

[0167] The pin housing 1143 may include a first pin housing 1143a coupled to the fixed hinge bracket 1111 and a second pin housing 1143b provided outside the first pin housing 1143a. The second pin housing 1143b is provided to be closer to or farther away from the first pin housing 1143a in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0168] The second pin housing 1143b may have a fixing pin 1144 and a guide pin 1145 coupled to the inside thereof. In addition, the first pin housing 1143a may have a first hole through which the fixing pin 1144 passes and a second hole accommodating the guide pin 1145. Both the fixing pin 1144 and the guide pin 1145 may be disposed parallel to the rotation axis.

[0169] The locking device 1140 may further include an elastic member 1146 that presses the fixing pin 1144 inward in the direction of the rotation axis. That is, the elastic member 1146 may provide an elastic force in a direction in which the fixing pin 1144 is inserted into the pinhole 1132c. For example, the elastic member 1146 may be a spring provided on the outer circumference of the guide pin 1145, and one side of the elastic member 1146 is supported by the first pin housing 1143a and the other side is supported by the guide pin 1145. Here, one side of the elastic member 1146 refers to the outside in the direction of the rotation axis and the other side refers to the inside in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0170] The guide pin 1145 may include a first diameter of a portion passing through the first pin housing 1143a and a second diameter of a portion supporting the elastic member 1146, and may include a step extending from the first diameter to a second diameter larger than the first diameter in the direction of the rotation axis. In addition, an inlet portion of the second hole of the first pin housing 1143a corresponds to the first diameter of the guide pin 1145.

[0171] When the lid assembly 1000 rotates upward and the pinhole 1132c moves to a position corresponding to the fixing pin 1144, the fixing pin 1144 may be inserted into the pinhole 1132c by the elastic force of the elastic member 1146 to fix the rotation state of the lid assembly 1000. In addition, when an external force greater than the elastic force is applied in the direction opposite to the direction in which the elastic force of the elastic member 1146 is provided, the fixing pin 1144 may be separated from the pinhole 1132c, and as a result, the lid assembly 1000 may rotate in the reverse direction.

[0172]

[0173] [x-axis and y-axis linear movement]

[0174] The lid assembly 1000 may linearly move the optical unit 200 in the first direction and the second direction on the thermal block.

[0175] The lid assembly 1000 may include a lid base unit 1100 positioned on a thermal block in which recesses are formed in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular thereto, an optical unit 200 capable of irradiating light to a sample of the recess and detecting a target signal from the sample, a first axis driving motor 1231 providing a driving force for moving the optical unit 200 in the first direction, and a second axis driving motor 1241 providing a driving force for moving the optical unit 200 in the second direction.

[0176] The lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment may further include a support frame 1210 movably coupled in the second direction on the lid base unit 1100, and the first axis driving motor 1231 and the second axis driving motor 1241 may be supported on the support frame 1210. The first axis driving motor 1231 and the second axis driving motor 1241 may move together with the support frame 1210 in the second direction.

[0177] When the first axis driving motor 1231 and the second axis driving motor 1241 are mounted on the support frame 1210 moving in the second direction as described above, since interference between the support frame 1210 and the driving motors is not considered, the degree of freedom in design may be increased and may be efficiently disposed in a smaller area. In addition, by increasing a load applied to the support frame 1210 connected to the optical unit 200, vibration of the optical unit 200 may be reduced. In addition, since the relative displacement of the first axis driving motor 1231 and the second axis driving motor 1241 is maintained constant, there is no change in load distribution according to a change in the position of the driving motor, thereby improving structural stability.

[0178] The lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment may further include a first axis shaft 1233 connected to the first axis driving motor 1231 and extending in the first direction, a second axis shaft 1243 connected to the second axis driving motor 1241 and extending in the second direction, a first axis moving member 1234 moving on the first axis shaft 1233 and connecting the optical unit 200, and a second axis moving member 1244 moving on the second axis shaft 1243 and connecting the lid base unit 1100.

[0179] Here, the meaning that the second axis moving member 1244 moves over the second axis shaft 1243 includes relative movement. For example, even when the second axis moving member 1244 connected to the lid base unit 1100 is fixed and the second axis shaft 1243 moves in the second direction with respect to the lid base unit 1100, the second axis moving member 1244 may move over the second axis shaft 1243.

[0180] The first axis shaft 1233 and the second axis shaft 1243 do not intersect each other when viewed from above. The first axis shaft 1233 and the second axis shaft 1243 are disposed on the same plane or an adjacent plane when viewed from the side.

[0181] In the case of designing an optical unit that drives the x-axis and the y-axis in the related art, a first driving shaft and a first motor are mounted on a fixed frame, a moving frame is movably mounted on the fixed frame, and a second driving shaft and a second motor are mounted on the moving frame. However, in such a prior art, there is a problem in that the first driving shaft and the second driving shaft are disposed up and down to increase the height of the device. In addition, since the moving frame in which the optical unit is suspended is connected to the fixed frame in a cantilever state, there is a problem in that the optical unit is drooping and vibrates in the moving frame as it moves away from the basic frame. In addition, as the moving frame moves on the fixed frame, a difference in displacement between the first motor and the second motor occurs, and this difference in displacement causes a change in load distribution, thereby making it difficult to control accuracy of the optical unit.

[0182] The lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment may solve all conventional problems. Since the first driving shaft 1233 and the second driving shaft 1243 may be disposed on the same plane, the height of the device may be lowered. In addition, the optical unit bracket 1220 on which the optical unit 200 is suspended moves on a pair of parallel rails rather than a cantilever shape, thereby solving the sagging or vibration problem of the optical unit 200. In addition, since there is no difference in displacement between the first axis driving motor 1231 and the second axis driving motor 1241, the load distribution may be maintained, and the first axis driving motor 1231 and the second axis driving motor 1241 are disposed at edges thereof, respectively, so that the load is uniformly distributed. In addition, since both the first axis driving motor 1231 and the second axis driving motor 1241 are supported on the moving unit 1200, as a result of increasing the load of the moving unit 1200, the vibration of the optical unit 200 may be reduced.

[0183] The lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment employs a screw shaft-nut structure in the first axis actuator and the second axis actuator to enable fine adjustment, reduce backlash, and increase durability. In addition, the lid assembly 1000 may provide a luxurious driving feeling by employing a ball-screw structure. The advantages of a screw shaft-nut structure (including a ball-screw structure) may be equally applied to other configurations.

[0184] The lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment employs an LM guide structure on the second axis guide member 1160 for guiding the movement of the moving unit 1200 in the second direction and the first axis guide member 1150 for guiding the movement of the optical unit bracket 1220 supporting the optical unit 200 in the first direction, thereby reducing friction and noise, enabling high-speed driving with low resistance, and improving durability. In addition, the lid assembly 1000 may provide a luxurious driving sense by employing an LM guide structure. The advantage of the LM guide structure may be equally applied to other configurations.

[0185] In the lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment, the optical unit 200 may be easily separated. The optical unit 200 is located in front of the first driving shaft when viewed from above, and there is no other structure on the upper part. Therefore, the optical unit 200 may separate only the coupling with the optical unit bracket 1220 to perform maintenance.

[0186]

[0187] [Moving unit]

[0188] The moving unit 1200 may linearly move the optical unit 200 in the first direction and the second direction on the lid base unit 1100. The moving unit 1200 according to an embodiment may be coupled to the lid base unit 1100 to be linearly movable in the second direction on the lid base unit 1100, and may linearly move the optical unit 200 in the first direction in the moving unit 1200.

[0189] The moving unit 1200 according to an embodiment may include a support frame 1210 coupled to the lid base unit 1100 and an optical unit bracket 1220 supported by the support frame 1210 and coupled to the optical unit 200.

[0190] The optical unit 200 may move in the row direction (x-axis direction, first direction) and the column direction (y-axis direction, second direction) of the thermal block depending on the movement of the support frame 1210 and the optical unit bracket 1220. For example, the support frame 1210 may linearly move in the second direction on the lid base unit 1100, and the optical unit bracket 1220 supported by the support frame 1210 may also move together depending on the support frame 1210. In addition, the optical unit bracket 1220 may independently linearly move in the first direction on the support frame 1210. As a result, the optical unit 200 fixed to the optical unit bracket 1220 may linearly move in both the first axis and the second direction on the lid base unit 1100.

[0191] The optical unit 200 according to an embodiment may transmit and receive light while passing through all wells of the reaction container. When the reaction container is provided as a 96-well plate, 12 wells are arranged in the x-axis direction (first direction or row direction) and 8 wells are arranged in the y-axis direction (second direction or column direction), so that a total of 96 wells are provided in a matrix form.

[0192] The optical unit 200 may transmit and receive light from the (1,1) well to the (1,12) well while moving in the +x-axis direction in the first row of the 96-well plate. In addition, the optical unit 200 may transmit and receive light from the (2, 12) well to the (2, 1) well while moving in the -x-axis direction in the second row by a row interval in the y-axis direction. After repeating this process, the optical unit 200 may transmit and receive light from the (8, 12) well to the (8, 1) well while moving to the 8th row and moving in the -x-axis direction in the 8th row. That is, the optical unit 200 moves 96 columns in the y-axis direction while moving 8 rows in the x-axis direction.

[0193] The moving unit 1200 according to an embodiment may include a second axis actuator for driving the support frame 1210 in the second direction and a first axis actuator for driving the optical unit bracket 1220 in the first direction. Both the second axis actuator and the first axis actuator may be fixed to or supported by the support frame 1210. For example, the second axis actuator may be connected to the lid base unit 1100 in a state of being fixed or supported by the support frame 1210, and the first axis actuator may be connected to the optical unit bracket 1220 in a state of being fixed or supported by the support frame 1210.

[0194] The second axis actuator moves together with the moving object (support frame 1210), and the first axis actuator is located separately from the moving object (optical unit bracket 1220). When the support frame 1210 linearly moves in the second axis direction by the operation of the second axis actuator, the optical unit bracket 1220, the first axis actuator, and the second axis actuator all move together on the support frame 1210. When the optical unit bracket 1220 linearly moves in the first axis direction by the operation of the first axis actuator, neither the first axis actuator nor the second axis actuator moves in the first axis direction on the support frame 1210.

[0195] In the moving unit 1200, compared to the support frame 1210 that moves one-way in the second direction, the optical unit bracket 1220 that reciprocates several times in the first direction moves a large distance. Accordingly, when the weight of the optical unit bracket 1220 moving a longer distance than the support frame 1210 and the applied load are reduced, driving performance and efficiency may be improved. In order to reduce the load applied to the optical unit bracket 1220, the second axis actuator and the first axis actuator may be fixed or supported on the support frame 1210. That is, the optical unit bracket 1220 may support only the load of the optical unit 200.

[0196] When the reaction container is a 96-well plate in which the wells are arranged in a matrix of 8 rows X 12 columns, the first axis actuator operates such that the optical unit 200 continuously passes over all the wells of the reaction container in the row direction, and the second axis actuator operates such that the optical unit 200 intermittently passes over adjacent wells of the reaction container in the column direction. The first axis actuator operates such that the optical unit 200 moves from the outside of the first row well to the outside of the 12 row well of the reaction container, and the second axis actuator operates such that the optical unit 200 moves by an interval between adjacent rows of the reaction container. The optical unit 200 proceeds at constant speed from the first row well to the 12th row well in the row direction, and the optical unit 200 completes acceleration from the outside of the first row well and starts deceleration from the outside of the 12th row well.

[0197]

[0198] [Second axis actuator]

[0199] The linear movement of the moving unit 1200 in the second direction may be automatically operated by the second axis actuator.

[0200] The second axis actuator according to an embodiment may include a second axis power transmission unit for converting a rotational motion into a linear motion with the second axis driving motor 1241. Alternatively, the second axis actuator may include a linear motor, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or the like capable of being linearly driven.

[0201] The second axis driving motor 1241 includes an electric motor, and the electric motor includes a rotor and a stator to generate power using electric energy. The second axis driving motor 1241 may control the position of the second axis power transmission unit based on the input signal of the control board.

[0202] The second axis power transmission unit may convert the rotational motion of the second axis driving motor 1241 into a linear motion and transmit the linear motion to the moving unit 1200. The second axis power transmission unit according to an embodiment may include a screw-nut structure. The screw-nut structure may convert rotational motion of the shaft into linear motion of the nut. Alternatively, the second axis power transmission unit may include a rack and pinion structure, a belt structure, or a worm-gear structure.

[0203] The second axis actuator may be connected to the upper frame 1120 of the lid base unit 1100 in a state of being fixed or supported by the moving unit 1200. Specifically, the second axis actuator may be installed on the support frame 1210 to increase a load applied to the support frame 1210.

[0204] On the support frame 1210, the optical unit bracket 1220 on which the optical unit 200 is installed moves in the first direction, and in this case, if the sum of the weight of the support frame 1210 and the load to be supported is small, the optical unit bracket 1220 may move and vibration may occur in the support frame 1210. This causes the reliability of the optical unit 200 to be deteriorated. Meanwhile, since the support frame 1210 moves only a short distance at a time, driving efficiency may be achieved even if the sum of the weight and the load to be supported is somewhat large.

[0205] In addition, the second axis actuator may be installed in the lid assembly 1000 rather than the base assembly so as not to infringe on the space of the base assembly. This is because the thermal module 300 is installed in the base assembly, and in addition, a driving module for driving the thermal module 300 may be additionally installed, so that there is insufficient space for installing the actuator of the lid assembly 1000.

[0206] The second axis driving motor 1241 may be fixed to or supported by the support frame 1210 through a bracket. For example, the second axis driving motor 1241 may be provided at the rear of the optical unit 200 and may be positioned adjacent to the side surface of the support frame 1210.

[0207] The second axis power transmission unit according to an embodiment may include a second axis shaft 1243 extending in the second direction and a second axis moving member 1244 moving along the second axis shaft 1243. The second axis moving member 1244 may connect the moving unit 1200 to the body base unit 2100. For example, the second axis shaft 1243 may be a screw shaft and the second axis moving member 1244 may be a threaded nut.

[0208] The second axis power transmission unit according to an embodiment may include a second axis belt-pulley 1242 that transmits the rotational force of the second axis driving motor 1241 to a parallel rotation shaft, a screw shaft 1243, a screw thread nut 1244 that linearly moves along the screw shaft 1243 when the screw shaft 1243 rotates, and a moving unit connection member 1245 that connects the screw thread nut 1244 and the upper frame 1120 of the lid base unit 1100.

[0209] The screw shaft 1243 may be disposed in the second direction. Both sides of the screw shaft 1243 may be supported by a support unit coupled to the support frame 1210. The support unit may allow rotation of the screw shaft 1243 while supporting the screw shaft 1243, and for example, a ball bearing or a roller may be provided.

[0210] The screw shaft 1243 is threaded on its outer circumferential surface and is also referred to as a threaded shaft or a lead shaft. The screw thread nut 1244 screwed to the screw shaft 1243 may also have a screw thread formed on the inner circumferential surface thereof. According to an embodiment, the screw shaft 1243 and the thread nut 1244 may have a ball screw structure.

[0211] The moving unit connection member 1245 extends in the vertical direction to connect the screw thread nut 1244 located above and the upper frame 1120 of the lid base unit 1100 located below. According to an embodiment, one side of the moving unit connection member 1245 is connected to the screw thread nut 1244 and the other side is connected to the upper frame 1120 of the lid base unit 1100.

[0212]

[0213] [First axis actuator]

[0214] The linear movement of the optical unit bracket 1220 in the first direction may be automatically operated by the first axis actuator.

[0215] The first axis actuator according to an embodiment may include a first axis power transmission unit for converting a rotational motion into a linear motion with the first axis driving motor 1231. Alternatively, the first axis shaft actuator may include a linear motor capable of linear driving, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or the like.

[0216] The first axis driving motor 1231 includes an electric motor, and the electric motor includes a rotor and a stator to generate power using electric energy. The first axis driving motor 1231 may control the position of the first axis power transmission unit based on an input signal of the control board.

[0217] The first axis power transmission unit may convert the rotational motion of the first axis driving motor 1231 into a linear motion and transmit the linear motion to the optical unit bracket 1220. The first axis power transmission unit according to an embodiment may include a screw-nut structure. The screw-nut structure may convert rotational motion of the shaft into linear motion of the nut. Alternatively, the first axis power transmission unit may include a rack and pinion structure, a belt structure, or a worm-gear structure.

[0218] The first axis actuator may be connected to the optical unit bracket 1220 in a state of being fixed or supported by the support frame 1210. Specifically, the first axis actuator may be installed on the support frame 1210 to increase a load applied to the support frame 1210.

[0219] The first axis driving motor 1231 may be fixed to or supported by the support frame 1210 through a bracket. For example, the first axis driving motor 1231 may be provided at the rear of the optical unit 200 and may be positioned adjacent to the side surface of the support frame 1210. A second axis actuator may be provided on one side of the rear of the support frame 1210, and a first axis actuator may be provided on the other side of the rear.

[0220] The first axis power transmission unit according to an embodiment may include a first axis shaft 1233 extending in the first direction and a first axis shaft moving member 1234 moving along the first axis shaft 1233. The first axis shaft moving member 1234 may connect the optical unit bracket 1220. For example, the first axis shaft 1233 may be a screw shaft and the first axis shaft moving member 1234 may be a threaded nut.

[0221] The first axis power transmission unit according to an embodiment may include a first axis belt-pulley 1232 for transmitting the rotational force of the first axis driving motor 1231 to a parallel rotation shaft, a screw shaft 1233, a screw thread nut 1234 linearly moving along the screw shaft 1233 when the screw shaft 1233 rotates, and an optical unit bracket connection member for connecting the screw thread nut 1234 and the optical unit bracket 1220.

[0222] The screw shaft 1233 may be disposed in the first direction. Both sides of the screw shaft 1233 may be supported by a support unit coupled to the support frame 1210. The support unit may allow rotation of the screw shaft while supporting the screw shaft 1233, and for example, a ball bearing or a roller may be provided.

[0223] The screw shaft 1233 is threaded on its outer circumferential surface and is also referred to as a threaded shaft or a lead shaft. The screw thread nut 1234 screwed to the screw shaft 1233 may also have a screw thread formed on the inner circumferential surface thereof. According to an embodiment, the screw shaft 1233 and the screw thread nut 1234 may have a ball screw structure.

[0224] The optical unit bracket connection member extends in the front-rear direction to connect the screw thread nut 1234 located at the rear and the optical unit bracket 1220 located in front. According to an embodiment, one side of the optical unit bracket connection member is connected to the screw thread nut 1234 and the other side is connected to the optical unit bracket 1220.

[0225]

[0226] [Frame of a moving unit]

[0227] The support frame 1210 of the moving unit 1200 may include a bottom frame, first and second side frames extending upward from both edges of the bottom frame in the first direction, and a transverse frame crossing between the first side frame and the second side frame.

[0228] The bottom frame may form an opening extending in the first direction in which the optical unit 200 moves and pass the light source of the optical unit 200 through the opening. The opening may have a width in the first direction enough to have a margin at both outer edges while including the row-directional recesses of the thermal block.

[0229] The transverse frame may be positioned behind the opening of the bottom frame. For example, the transverse frame may be located close to the center in the second direction of the bottom frame, and the opening of the bottom frame may be provided in front of the transverse frame.

[0230] A first axis shaft 1223 of the first axis actuator may be rotatably coupled to the front of the transverse frame. The first axis shaft 1223 is disposed in the first direction, and the first axis support bearings are coupled to both ends thereof, respectively. A pair of first axis shaft support bearings are fixed to the front of the transverse frame.

[0231] When viewed from above, the second axis shaft 1243 of the second axis actuator may be rotatably coupled to the first side frame positioned at the left side of the transverse frame. The second axis shaft 1243 is disposed in the second direction, and second axis support bearings are coupled to both ends thereof, respectively. A pair of second axis support bearings are fixed to the left side of the first side frame.

[0232] The first axis driving motor 1231 of the first axis actuator and the second axis driving motor 1241 of the second axis actuator may be fixed to the rear of the transverse frame. The motor shaft of the first axis driving motor 1231 is disposed in the first direction, and the motor shaft of the second axis driving motor 1241 is disposed in the second direction. The motor shaft of the first axis driving motor 1231 and the first axis shaft 1223 are disposed in parallel to each other, and the motor shaft of the second axis driving motor 1241 and the second axis shaft 1243 are disposed in parallel to each other. In addition, the first axis driving motor 1231 and the first axis shaft 1223 are connected by a first axis belt-pulley 1232, and the second axis driving motor 1241 and the second axis shaft 1243 are connected by a second axis belt-pulley 1242.

[0233] The first axis driving motor 1231 may be coupled to the rear of the transverse frame through a first motor bracket. A first axis driving motor 1231 is coupled to an inner side (left side) of the first motor bracket, and a first axis belt-pulley 1232 is positioned on an outer side (right side). In addition, the first axis driving motor 1231 is located apart from the structure adjacent to the upper surface, the lower surface, the front surface, the rear surface, and the other side surface except for the side surface connected to the first motor bracket. For example, the lower surface of the first axis driving motor 1231 is positioned away from the bottom frame, and the front surface is positioned away from the transverse frame.

[0234] The second axis driving motor 1241 may be coupled to the bottom frame through a second motor bracket. A second axis driving motor 1241 is coupled to the front of the second motor bracket, and a second axis belt-pulley 1242 is positioned at the rear thereof. In addition, the second axis driving motor 1241 is located apart from the structure adjacent to the upper surface, the lower surface, the front surface, and both side surfaces except for the rear surface connected to the second motor bracket. For example, the lower surface of the second axis driving motor 1241 is positioned away from the bottom frame, the front surface is positioned away from the transverse frame, and the side surface is positioned away from the first side frame.

[0235]

[0236] [First axis and a second axis guide member]

[0237] The lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment may further include a second axis guide member 1160 for guiding the movement of the moving unit 1200 in the second axis and a first axis guide member 1150 for guiding the movement of the optical unit 200 in the first axis.

[0238] The moving unit 1200 may be coupled to be linearly movable in the second direction on the upper frame 1120 of the lid base unit 1100. The lid assembly 1000 may include a second axis guide member 1160 provided between the moving unit 1200 and the upper frame 1120 to guide the movement of the moving unit 1200 in the second direction. The second axis guide member 1160 may include a pair of second axis rails mounted on both sides of the upper frame 1120 in the first direction and extending in the second direction, and a pair of second axis blocks provided to be movable on the second axis rails. In addition, the moving unit 1200 may be coupled to the second axis block. However, the coupling position of the second axis rail and the second axis block may be opposite to this.

[0239] The optical unit 200 may be coupled to be linearly movable in the first direction on the bottom frame of the moving unit 1200. The lid assembly 1000 may include a first axis guide member 1150 provided between the optical unit 200 and the bottom frame and guiding the movement of the optical unit 200 in the first direction. The first axis guide member 1150 may include a pair of first axis rails mounted on the front and rear of the openings of the floor frame and extending in the first direction, and a pair of first axis blocks provided to be movable on the first axis rails. The optical unit 200 may be coupled to the first axis block. However, the coupling position of the first axis rail and the first axis block may be opposite to this.

[0240] The first axis guide member 1150 and the second axis guide member 1160 may include an LM guide. The rail may include an LM guide rail, and the block may include a LM block. The LM guide may employ a technique known in the art.

[0241]

[0242] [First axis and a second axis sensor]

[0243] The lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment may further include a second axis sensor for detecting the movement of the moving unit 1200 in the second direction and a first axis sensor for detecting the movement of the optical unit 200 in the first direction. The first axis sensor and the second axis sensor may use a dog sensor or a limit sensor. For example, sensors may be installed at both limits of the movement range in the axial direction, respectively. In addition, the sensor may detect a dog moving with the object.

[0244] A pair of second axis sensors may be mounted on the outside of the second side frame of the moving unit 1200. The dog may be connected to an edge of the upper frame 1120 of the lid base unit 1100. As the moving unit 1200 moves in the second direction, the relative position of the dog is changed between the pair of sensors.

[0245] A pair of first axis sensors may be mounted in front of the transverse frame of the moving unit 1200. The dog may be connected to the optical unit bracket 1220. As the optical unit 200 moves in the first direction, the relative position of the dog is changed between the pair of sensors.

[0246]

[0247] [Optical control board]

[0248] The lid assembly 1000 according to an embodiment may further include an optical unit 200 and an optical control board 1250 for controlling the optical driving unit.

[0249] The optical control board 1250 according to an embodiment may be fixed on the bottom frame of the moving unit 1200. In addition, the optical control board 1250 may include a 'U' shape connected from the front of the opening of the bottom frame to the rear of the transverse frame along the side edge.

[0250] The optical control board 1250 may be connected to the optical unit 200, the first axis driving motor 1231, the second axis driving motor 1241, the first sensor, and the second sensor, and may control the signals while transmitting and receiving signals to and from the respective sensors. The optical control board 1250 may be connected to the optical unit 200 in front of the 'U' shape, and may be connected to the first axis driving motors 1231 and the second axis driving motors 1241 in the rear. Since a relative distance between the optical control boards 1250 is changed as the optical unit 200 moves in the first direction, the optical unit 200 and the optical control board 1250 may be connected to each other by a flexible flat cable, a ribbon cable, or the like.

[0251] In addition, the optical control board 1250 may be connected to the integrated control module 400 through a connection portion at a rear end. Specifically, the optical control board 1250 may be connected to a gender board mounted on an interface bracket of the body base unit 2100. In addition, the gender board may be connected to the integrated control module 400 mounted on the side frame of the body base unit 2100.

[0252]

[0253] [Heat lid]

[0254] The heat lid 1300 according to an embodiment may pressurize and heat an upper portion of the reaction container. The heat lid 1300 may include a heating means and may heat the reaction container by generating heat at a temperature equal to or higher than that of the thermal block. In addition, the heat lid 1300 may press the upper portion of the reaction container by a method in which the heat lid 1300 descends, the thermal block ascends, or the heat lid 1300 descends and the thermal block ascends at the same time. Herein, the meaning that the heat lid 1300 pressurizes the upper portion of the reaction container includes in pressure between the reaction container and the heat lid 1300 as the thermal lock ascends.

[0255] The heat lid 1300 may be coupled to the bottom surface of the lid assembly 1000. When thermal cycling is in progress, the bottom surface of the lid assembly 1000 may face downward, and the bottom surface of the heat lid 1300 may face the reaction container.

[0256] The lid assembly 1000 may rotate upward with respect to the body assembly 2000 to open the bottom surface of the heat lid 1300. When the lid assembly 1000 is rotated by 90 degrees or more, the bottom surface of the heat lid 1300 is exposed to the side, and the operator may easily detach the exposed heat lid 1300 from the lid assembly 1000, thereby improving maintenance.

[0257] Since the heat lid 1300 operates at a high temperature and a high pressure, maintenance is frequently performed. In general, in order to maintain the heat lid 1300, it took a lot of time and effort because it was necessary to approach the heat lid 1300 while removing the optical unit or disassembling components from above. However, the thermal cycler according to an embodiment may access the heat lid 1300 only by rotating the lid assembly 1000, thereby dramatically improving the maintenance.

[0258] The heat lid 1300 may be coupled to the upper frame 1120 of the lid base unit 1100. According to an embodiment, an opening to which the heat lid 1300 is coupled may be formed in a middle portion of the upper frame 1120, and the heat lid 1300 may be coupled below the upper frame 1120.

[0259] In addition, the heat lid 1300 may include a heating portion located inside the opening of the upper frame 1120 and a coupling portion overlapping the opening peripheral portion. In addition, the coupling portion of the heat lid 1300 may overlap the lower surface of the upper frame 1120 and may be coupled by a coupling member such as a screw.

[0260] An opening exposing the heating portion of the heat lid 1300 may be formed in the middle portion of the lower frame 1110 of the lid base unit 1100. Preferably, an opening exposing both the heating part and the coupling part of the heat lid 1300 may be formed in the middle portion of the lower frame 1110 of the lid base unit 1100. Accordingly, the operator may mount or relocate the heat lid 1300 through the opening of the lower frame 1110 of the lid base unit 1100 during an operation such as mounting or aligning the heat lid 1300, thereby improving work convenience and reducing work time.

[0261] The heating unit of the heat lid 1300 may be FPCB of the heat lid 1300. The heat lid 1300 FPCB may include a heating wire and a thermistor.

[0262] In addition, the FPCB of the heat lid 1300 may be connected to the integrated control module 400. Specifically, the heat lid 1300 FPCB may extend rearward and may be connected to the gender board. The gender board may be connected to the integrated control module 400.

[0263]

[0264] Hereinafter, the body assembly 2000 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the body assembly 2000 according to an embodiment.

[0265]

[0266] [Body assembly]

[0267] The body assembly 2000 according to an embodiment includes a body base unit 2100 accommodating the thermal module 300 therein and supporting the lid assembly 1000.

[0268] The body base unit 2100 according to an embodiment may include a frame, a lid guide member 2120 coupled to the lid assembly 1000 and provided to be linearly movable, and a lid actuator 2130 for driving the linear movement of the lid assembly 1000.

[0269] The frame of the body base unit 2100 may include a front frame, a rear frame, an upper frame, a lower frame, and a pair of side frames.

[0270] The input / output module 100 may be mounted in front of the front frame. The input / output module 100 includes a display and an input means. For example, the input / output module 100 may be a touch screen capable of input / output. A fan module 500 and the first power supply 610 may be mounted on the rear frame. The fan module 500 may be a cooling fan that discharges heated air inside the body base unit 2100 to the outside air, and the first power supply module 610 may supply DC power to the thermal module 300. The top frame may support the lid assembly 1000, and the bottom frame may support the second power supply 620. The second power supply module 620 may supply DC power to the optical unit 200. For example, the capacity of the first power supply module 610 is greater than the capacity of the second power supply module 620. A lid driving unit may be mounted on one side frame. An integrated control module 400 may be mounted on the opposite side frame.

[0271] The frame of the body base unit 2100 may further include a vertical frame on which the height adjustment unit 2300 is mounted and an interface bracket on which a gender board is mounted. The vertical frame may have an upper end connected to the upper frame 1120 and a lower end connected to the lower frame 1110. In addition, the interface bracket may be coupled from the rear to the bottom of the upper frame 1120.

[0272]

[0273] [Thermal pocket unit]

[0274] The body assembly 2000 according to an embodiment may further include a thermal pocket unit 2400 installed in the body base unit 2100 and providing a space surrounding the thermal module 300.

[0275] The thermal pocket unit 2400 may include a pocket frame 2410, a thermal module mount 2411 supporting the thermal module 300, and a handle 2412 allowing a space between the thermal modules 300 so that an operator may grip the thermal module 300.

[0276] The pocket frame 2410 may form a pocket that is a space for accommodating the thermal module 300 therein. The pocket may include a shape corresponding to an external shape of the thermal module 300. However, the pocket may be provided in a larger dimension than the thermal module 300 in order to facilitate carrying in and out of the thermal module 300.

[0277] The thermal module mounts 2411 may be provided on both side surfaces of the pocket frame 2410, respectively. A pair of thermal module mounts 2411 located on one side of the pocket frame 2410 may be provided. Accordingly, the thermal pocket unit 2400 may include a total of four thermal module mounts 2411, and the thermal module 300 may be supported at four points. In addition, the thermal module mount 2411 may be installed on the pocket frame 2410 to be finely adjusted. Each thermal module mount 2411 is installed so that not only the height but also the inclination may be finely adjusted. The operator may fine-tune the four thermal module mounts 2411 so that the upper surfaces of each thermal module mount 2411 form one plane.

[0278] The thermal module mount 2411 located on one side of the pocket frame 2410 may be provided as a pair located on both sides of the cooling fan of the thermal module 300, respectively. The handle 2412 may be positioned on the thermal module mount 2411.

[0279] The thermal module 300 may include a support section protruding to be supported on the thermal module mount 2411. The support portion of the thermal module 300 is supported on the thermal module mount 2411. In addition, the support portion of the thermal module 300 may correspond to each of the thermal module mounts 2411. For example, when four thermal module mounts 2411 are provided, four support parts of the thermal module 300 corresponding thereto are also provided.

[0280] In the thermal cycler, alignment between the thermal block and the optical unit 200 is very important. The inspection accuracy may vary greatly depending on the alignment accuracy of the optical path of the optical unit 200 and the recess of the thermal block. In particular, when the thermal module 300 according to an embodiment is provided to be detachable, the thermal module 300 should be positioned at the same position even when it is remounted after separation.

[0281] To this end, the thermal module mount 2411 and the support portion of the thermal module 300 may include an aligning pin structure. For example, the support portion of the thermal module 300 may include an alignment pin protruding downward, and the thermal module mount 2411 may have an alignment hole corresponding to the alignment pin.

[0282] The alignment pin may include a curved surface or an inclined surface at an end portion thereof. Even when the worker puts the thermal module 300 down in a state in which the alignment pin and the alignment hole are slightly misaligned, the curved surface or the inclined surface of the alignment pin may be aligned at the correct position while sliding the edge of the alignment hole.

[0283] An elastic member may be interposed between the thermal module mount 2411 and the support portion of the thermal module 300. The elastic member may be coupled to the upper surface of the thermal module mount 2411 or may be coupled to the lower surface of the support part of the thermal module 300. Alternatively, the elastic member may be provided as a separate member from the thermal module mount 2411 and the support portion of the thermal module 300.

[0284] The elastic member may adjust the inclination of the thermal module 300. In the process in which the heat lid 1300 pressurizes the reaction container, non-uniform pressure may be applied to each portion of the reaction container. The pressure applied to the reaction container may be applied to the elastic member through the thermal module 300, and the elastic member on the thermal module mount 2411 to which a relatively higher pressure is applied may be elastically deformed to make the pressure of the thermal module mounts 2411 uniform. Alternatively, when the upper surfaces of the four thermal module mounts 2411 do not form one plane or the lower surfaces of the support protrusions of the four thermal modules 300 do not form one plane, one plane may be formed while one or more elastic members are elastically deformed.

[0285]

[0286] [Height adjustment unit]

[0287] The body assembly 2000 according to an embodiment may move the thermal module 300 in the vertical direction. To this end, a height adjustment unit 2300 for moving the thermal module 300 in the vertical direction may be further included. The height adjustment unit 2300 may include a vertical axis driving motor and a vertical axis power transmission unit.

[0288] The body assembly 2000 according to an embodiment may move the thermal pocket unit 2400 on which the thermal module 300 is supported in the vertical direction. The thermal module 300 supported by the thermal pocket unit 2400 moves together with the thermal pocket unit 2400.

[0289] The body assembly 2000 according to an embodiment may further include a vertical axis guide member 2200 for guiding the thermal pocket unit 2400 in the vertical direction. The vertical axis guide member 2200 may be positioned between the frame of the body base unit 2100 and the thermal pocket unit 2400.

[0290] The vertical axis guide member 2200 may include a vertical axis rail mounted on each of the four corners of the thermal pocket unit 2400 and extending in the vertical direction, and a vertical axis block provided to be movable on the vertical axis rail. In addition, the vertical axis block may be coupled to the inside of the frame of the body base unit 2100. Alternatively, the coupling position of the vertical axis rail and the vertical axis block may be opposite to this.

[0291] The vertical axis guide member 2200 may include an LM guide. The vertical axis rail may include an LM guide rail, and the vertical axis block may include a LM block. The LM guide may employ a technique known in the art.

[0292] The vertical movement of the thermal pocket unit 2400 may be automatically operated by the height adjustment unit 2300.

[0293] The height adjustment unit 2300 according to an embodiment may include a vertical axis driving motor and a vertical axis power transmission unit that converts rotational motion of the vertical axis driving motor into linear motion. In addition, the height adjustment unit 2300 may include a linear motor capable of linear driving, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or the like.

[0294] The vertical axis driving motor includes an electric motor, and the electric motor includes a rotor and a stator to generate power using electric energy. The vertical axis driving motor may control the position of the vertical axis power transmission unit based on an input signal of the control board.

[0295] The vertical axis power transmission unit may convert the rotational motion of the vertical axis driving motor into a linear motion and transmit it to the thermal pocket unit 2400. The vertical axis power transmission unit according to an embodiment may include a screw-nut structure. The screw-nut structure may convert rotational motion of the shaft into linear motion of the nut. In addition, the vertical axis power transmission unit may include a rack and pinion structure, a belt structure, or a worm-gear structure.

[0296] The height adjustment unit 2300 may be provided at the rear of the thermal pocket unit 2400 and fixed to the vertical frame of the body base unit 2100. The vertical frame may extend in the vertical direction, and a lower end portion may be fixed to the lower frame and an upper end portion may be fixed to the upper frame. The vertical frame may be located at the center in the first direction and may be located at the rear of the thermal pocket unit 2400 in the second direction.

[0297] The vertical axis power transmission unit may be connected to the thermal pocket unit 2400 in a state of being fixed to the vertical frame of the body base unit 2100. Since the vertical axis power transmission unit is fixed to the body base unit 2100 rather than the thermal pocket unit 2400, the weight of the thermal pocket unit 2400 may be reduced. When the weight of the thermal pocket unit 2400 is lowered, rapid linear movement is possible, and the specifications of the vertical axis power transmission unit are lowered, thereby lowering the production cost or improving the durability of the vertical axis power transmission unit.

[0298] The vertical axis power transmission unit may include a screw shaft, a coupling for transmitting a rotational force of the vertical axis driving motor to the screw shaft, a screw nut linearly moving along the screw shaft when the screw shaft rotates, and a pocket unit connection member for connecting the screw nut and the thermal pocket unit 2400.

[0299] The motor shaft, the coupling, and the screw shaft of the vertical axis driving motor may be sequentially disposed from the bottom to the top and may be positioned on the same axis.

[0300] The screw shaft may be disposed in the vertical direction. Both sides of the screw shaft may be supported by a support unit coupled to the vertical frame of the body base unit 2100. The support unit may allow rotation of the screw shaft while supporting the screw shaft, and for example, a ball bearing or a roller may be provided.

[0301] The screw shaft is threaded on its outer circumferential surface and is also called a threaded shaft or lead shaft. The screw thread nut screwed to the screw shaft may also have a screw thread formed on the inner circumferential surface thereof. According to an embodiment, the screw shaft and the threaded nut may have a ball screw structure.

[0302] The vertical shaft may be provided to allow an operator to manually operate. For example, when a gear is coupled to a groove provided in an upper end portion of the vertical shaft and rotated, the vertical shaft may be manually rotated.

[0303] The pocket unit connection member connects the thermal pocket unit 2400 located in the front and the threaded nut located in the rear.

[0304] The upper frame of the body base unit 2100 forms an opening to allow the thermal module 300 to be included therein when viewed from above. The thermal module may be carried in and out through the opening of the upper frame. Lid guide members 2120 may be installed at both edges of the upper frame in the first direction, respectively. For example, the lid rail may extend in the second direction along an edge of the top frame.

[0305] A fixture coupling portion capable of manually rotating the vertical shaft is located at the rear of the opening of the upper frame. When the height adjustment unit 2300 does not operate or the power is not connected, the thermal module 300 may be moved up and down by operating the vertical shaft using a tool.

[0306]

[0307] [Integration and arrangement by function]

[0308] In the thermal cycler according to an embodiment, modules for performing each function may be integrated and disposed separately for each function.

[0309] The thermal cycler according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a housing for protecting a device from the outside; an input / output module 100 including a display and an input device; an integrated assembly in which the lid assembly 1000 is mounted on the body assembly 2000; a lid actuator 2130 for linearly moving the lid assembly 1000 on the body assembly 2000; an integrated control module 400 for controlling a thermal control board for controlling the thermal module 300 and the optical control board 1250 for controlling the optical unit 200; a fan module 500 for discharging air inside the housing to the outside; and a first power supply module 610 for supplying power to the thermal module 30 A second power supply module 620 for supplying power to the optical unit 200 may be included. In addition, the thermal cycler according to an embodiment may include a third power supply module 630 for supplying power to the integrated control module 400.

[0310] The lid actuator 2130 according to an embodiment includes the lid linear driving module.

[0311] The thermal cycler according to an embodiment may arrange and distribute each module at the front, rear, upper, lower, left side, and right side of the integrated assembly, respectively. When any one module fails or needs to be replaced, the operator may complete the operation in a part of the integrated assembly, making it easy to maintain the thermal cycler.

[0312] According to an embodiment, the input / output module may be located in front of the integrated assembly, the fan module 500 and the first power supply module 610 may be located in the rear of the integrated assembly, the lid actuator 2130 may be located in the left side of the integrated assembly, the integrated control module 400 may be located in the right side of the integrated assembly, and the second power supply module 620 may be located in the lower side of the integrated assembly.

[0313] The housing according to an embodiment may include an upper housing positioned at an upper portion and having a cover coupled to be opened and closed, a left side housing, a right side housing, a rear housing, and a bottom housing. In addition, the upper housing, the left housing, the right housing, the rear housing, and the bottom housing may be separately provided. For example, when the right side housing is separated and released, the integrated control module 400 is exposed, and the operator may be able to maintain the integrated control module 400 without separating and releasing other housings.

[0314] The top housing may include a cover provided to be openable and closable and a fixed top housing configured to movably support the cover. The cover according to an embodiment is provided to be slidable. For example, the cover may slide in the second direction together with the movement of the lid assembly 1000 in the second direction.

[0315] In addition, the upper housing may prevent the second axis rail of the lid assembly 1000 from being exposed to the open space even after the cover is opened. That is, the fixed top housing may be provided to cover the top of the second axis rail to prevent external contaminants such as dust from accumulating on the second axis rail.

[0316] The fan module 500 may be located behind the integrated assembly and detachably installed on the rear frame of the body base unit 2100. The fan module 500 may be provided to be inclined to face downward. The fan module 500 should be located at a predetermined distance away from the rear wall. The manual specifies that the thermal cycler device should be separated from the rear wall by a certain distance when the thermal cycler device is installed, but when the operator ignores this and attaches the device to the rear wall or places the device close to it, the efficiency of the fan module 500 may deteriorate and the device may overheat. Since the fan module 500 is provided to be inclined to face the downward direction, even if the operator attaches the protruding upper portion of the fan module 500 to the rear wall, a space may be secured behind the fan module 500.

[0317] The power supply module may be a switching mode power supply (SMPS), and may supply DC power to each module. The SMPS may employ a technique known in the art.

[0318] A plurality of power supply modules according to an embodiment may be provided according to a power supply target, and positions of the plurality of power supply modules may vary according to capacities. The first power supply module 610 for supplying power to the thermal module 300 requires a relatively large capacity, and the second power supply module 620 for supplying power to the optical unit 200 and the third power supply module 630 for supplying power to the integrated control module 400 require a relatively small capacity. For example, the first power supply module 610 may be formed of 1000W, and the second power supply module 620 and the third power supply module 630 may be formed of 100W.

[0319] The first power supply module 610 may be located behind the integrated assembly and detachably installed on the rear frame of the body base unit 2100. The fan module 500 and the first power supply module 610 may be detachably coupled to the rear frame, respectively, and the first power supply module 610 may be located under the fan module 500. The operator may separate the rear housing to maintain and repair the first power supply module 610.

[0320] The second power supply module 620 and the third power supply module 630 may be located below the integrated assembly and may be supported on the lower frame of the body base unit 2100. A harness, a cable, and the like may be positioned on the lower frame. The operator may separate the lower surface housing to maintain and repair the second power supply module 620 or the third power supply module 630.

[0321] The lid actuator 2130 may be located on the left side of the integrated assembly and detachably installed on the left side frame of the body base unit 2100. The lid actuator 2130 may be located below the fan of the thermal module 300 and above the second and third power supply modules 630. The operator may separate the left side housing to maintain and repair the lid actuator 2130.

[0322] The integrated control module 400 may be located on the right side of the integrated assembly and detachably installed on the right side frame of the body base unit 2100. The integrated control module 400 may be located below the fan of the thermal module 300 and may be located behind the fan of the thermal module 300. The operator may separate the right side housing to maintain and repair the integrated control module 400.

[0323] The integrated control module 400 may include a power controller in charge of power stabilization, a thermal module 300, an optical unit 200, an input / output module, sensors, a heat lid 1300, and / or a main controller that receives signals from the power supply module and transmits commands. The integrated control module 400 may include an L shape extending below and rearward from the fan of the thermal module 300. Accordingly, the integrated control module 400 may secure a large area without interfering with the air flow of the fan of the thermal module 300.

[0324] The main controller of the integrated control module 400 may have an 'L' shape, and the power controller may be located behind the main controller. In addition, the main controller may be positioned to be spaced rearward from the fan of the thermal module 300, and a connector that may be connected to the thermal module 300, the optical unit 200, the sensors, the heat lid 1300, and / or the power supply module may be connected between the fan of the thermal module 300 and the main controller.

[0325]

[0326] [Control unit]

[0327] Hereinafter, the control module may be used to include a control unit or a control board. For example, the optical control module includes an optical control board 1250 or an optical control unit.

[0328] The controller of the thermal cycler according to an embodiment may be modularized and provided. For example, the thermal cycler may include a distributed control module. The control module of the thermal cycler may include an optical control module for controlling the optical unit 200, a thermal control module for controlling the thermal module 300, a driving control module for controlling the driving unit, and an integrated control module 400 for integrally controlling the optical control module, the thermal control module, and the driving control module.

[0329] As such, there are many advantages by providing the integrated control module 400 in which control modules are distributed and present in each of the modules performing independent functions, and the distributed control modules are integrated.

[0330] For example, by using a control module distributed from the integrated control module 400, it may be easy to replace or repair when a problem occurs in some modules or an upgrade is required. Conventionally, when the thermal module 300 is replaced or repaired, the thermal cycler device has to be disassembled to separate the integrated control board together with the thermal module 300. In this case, there is a hassle of disassembling and reassembling a plurality of connection parts connected to the integrated control board, and there are many cases in which the entire integrated control board needs to be replaced.

[0331] However, when the control module distributed from the integrated control module 400 is used, only the thermal module 300 and the control module thereof may be separated and replaced and repaired without the need to separate the integrated control module 400. Since only the connector of the thermal control module and the integrated control module 400 needs to be reconnected, the reinstallation operation is easy.

[0332]

[0333] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a controller according to an embodiment.

[0334] Referring to FIG. 13, the controller of the thermal cycler may include an integrated control module 400, an optical control module 410, and a thermal control module 420. In addition, although not shown in the drawings, a driving control module for controlling mechanical driving of the thermal cycler may be further included.

[0335] The optical control module 410 may include a optical control board 1250 and optical connection circuit board(not shown).

[0336] The thermal control module 402 may include a control circuit board 421, a driving circuit board 422, an interface circuit board 423, a thermal element connection circuit board 424, a thermal block heating circuit board 425, a heat sink circuit board 426, a heat lid connection circuit board 627, and a heat lid heating circuit board 428.

[0337] The control circuit board 421 and the driving circuit board 422 may be provided as separate boards and connected to each other, or may be included in one board. In some cases, the control circuit board 421 may be used as a meaning including the driving circuit board 422.

[0338] The control circuit board 421 may be provided a PCB (Printed Circuit Board). The control circuit board 421 may control and process all functions of the thermal module 300. For example, the control circuit board 421 may control thermal cycling, a temperature gradient, and a temperature of the heat lid 1300, sense and process current, and sense and process temperature. The control circuit board 421 may process data while communicating with the integrated control module 400, and may perform synchronization while communicating with the optical control module 410. For example, the control circuit board 421 may include Ethernet for communicating with the integrated control module 400.

[0339] The control circuit board 421 may include a MCU (micro controller unit) and peripheral circuits. The control circuit board 421 may constitute an TEC (Thermoelectric Cooler) control circuit, a heat lid control circuit, and a cooling fan control circuit. In addition, the control circuit board 421 may be modularized and provided to correspond to the thermal module 300 one-to-one. Accordingly, the control circuit board 421 may maintain an optimized state for the thermal module 300, and may be replaced or repaired together when the thermal module 300 is replaced or repaired.

[0340] The driving circuit board 422 may be provided a PCB. The driving circuit board 422 may drive the thermal module 300, drive the thermoelectric element 320 for a temperature gradient, drive the heat lid 1300, sense a current, and be connected to the control circuit board 421 and the interface circuit board 423.

[0341] In addition, the driving circuit board 422 may include a thermal module driving circuit, a thermal block FPCB driving circuit, a heat lid FPCB driving circuit, and a heating section separation circuit for controlling temperature for each zone. In addition, the driving circuit board 422 may include a circuit capable of controlling the cooling fan 340.

[0342] The interface circuit board 423 may be provided a PCB. The interface circuit board 423 may be connected to optical control module 410 and integrated control module 400. The interface circuit board 423 may be connected to the driving circuit board 422, the thermal element connection circuit board 424, and the heat lid connection circuit board 427.

[0343] The interface circuit board 423 may constitute a connection circuit connecting the driving circuit board 422 and the thermal element connection circuit board 424. The interface circuit board 423 may configure a high current connection circuit to supply power to the thermoelectric 320, the thermal block heating circuit board 425, and the heat lid heating circuit board 428. The interface circuit board 423 may constitute a circuit connected to the integrated control module 400 and the optical unit 200.

[0344] Each of the thermal element connection circuit board 424, the thermal block heating circuit board 425, and the heat sink circuit board 426 may constitute a part of a thermal circuit board. The thermal element connection circuit board 424, the thermal block heating circuit board 425, and the heat sink circuit board 426 may be provided as separate boards and connected to each other, or may be included in one board. The thermal circuit board may be used to include one or more of a thermal element connection circuit board 424, a thermal block heating circuit board 425, and a heat sink circuit board 426.

[0345] The thermal element connection circuit board 424 may be provided a PCB. The thermal element may include a heating channel of the thermal block heating circuit board 425 and thermoelectric element (TEC, peltier) 320. The thermal element connection circuit board 424 may be connected to the thermoelectric element 320, a thermal block circuit board 425, and a heat sink circuit board 426. The thermal element connection circuit board 424 may include a receiver that converts a temperature sensing signal (analog) of a thermistor into a digital signal.

[0346] The thermal element connection circuit board 424 may include a TEC connection circuit and a connector, a RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) circuit, and a high resolution temperature signal circuit (Analog to Digital Conversion).

[0347] The thermal block heating circuit board 425 may be provided a FPCB(Flexible Printed Circuit Board). The thermal block heating circuit board 425 may heat the thermal block 310 and perform high-precision temperature sensing. The thermal block heating circuit board 425 may perform joule heating through a thermal resistance pattern design, may be attached with a resistance thermistor RTD, and may separate a heating section for controlling a temperature gradient.

[0348] The thermal block heating circuit board 425 may be attached to the upper surface of the thermal block 310. In addition, a thermal conduction layer is provided between the thermal block heating circuit board 425 and the thermal block 310 to increase thermal conductivity.

[0349] The thermal block heating circuit board 425 may include an aperture corresponding to the recess of the thermal block 310. Therefore, when the reaction container is mounted on the thermal block 310, the well of the reaction container may pass through the hole formed in the thermal block heating circuit board 425.

[0350] The thermal block heating circuit board 425 may include a heating channel corresponding to a thermal zone of the thermal block 310. The thermal block heating circuit board 425 may independently control each heating channel.

[0351] In the present specification, the term "channel" may refer to an independent unit for transmitting electrical information or electrical energy. For example, a heating channel refers to a unit capable of independently controlling a temperature, and a sensing channel refers to a unit capable of independently sensing a temperature.

[0352] According to an embodiment, the thermal block heating circuit board 425 may include a heating channel corresponding to a thermal zone of the thermal block 310. For example, when the thermal block 310 is divided into six thermal zones, the thermal block heating circuit board 425 may include six heating channels. Each heating channel of the thermal block heating circuit board 425 may include two block thermistors, and the thermal block heating circuit board 425 may include a total of 12 block thermistors.

[0353] The block thermistor may be located adjacent to an edge of the thermal block 310. For example, the thermal block heating circuit board 425 may configure two block thermistors for measuring the temperature of both edges of the thermal block 310 in each heating channel.

[0354] The heat sink circuit board 426 may be provided a FPCB. The heat sink circuit board 426 may sense the temperature of the heat sink 330 to increase thermal efficiency of thermal cycling and increase cooling efficiency. The heat sink circuit board 426 may constitute a RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) circuit.

[0355] In addition, the heat sink circuit board 426 may be attached to the lower surface of the heat sink 330. In addition, a heat conduction layer is provided between the heat sink circuit board 426 and the heat sink 330 to increase thermal conductivity. In addition, the heat sink circuit board 426 may be provided along the periphery of the first cooling fin 151 when viewed from below, and may be configured in a square or U shape.

[0356] The heat sink circuit board 426 may include four sensing channels, and each channel may include a heat sink thermistor 171. For example, the heat sink circuit board 426 may include four corner sensing channels to sense the temperature of each corner of the heat sink 330.

[0357] The heat lid heating circuit board 428 and the heat lid connection circuit board 427 may be provided as separate boards and connected to each other or may be included in one board. In some cases, the heat lid heating circuit board 428 may be used as a meaning including a heat lid heating circuit board 428 and a heat lid connection circuit board 427.

[0358] The heat lid connection circuit board 427 may be provided a FPCB. The heat lid connection circuit board 427 may be connected to the heat lid heating circuit board 428 and may be connected to the interface circuit board 423. In addition, the heat lid connection circuit board 427 may convert a temperature detection signal (analog) of the heat lid thermistor into a digital signal. The heat lid connection circuit board 427 may include a Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) circuit and an analog to digital conversion.

[0359] The heat lid heating circuit board 428 may be provided a FPCB. The heat lid heating circuit board 428 may be expected to heat the heat lid 1300 to reduce reagent evaporation. In addition, the heat lid heating circuit board 428 may perform high-precision temperature sensing. The heat lid heating circuit board 428 may perform joule heating through a thermal resistance pattern design, and a resistance thermistor (RTD) may be mounted. In addition, the heat lid heating circuit board 428 may separate the heating section for over heating control.

[0360] In addition, the heat lid heating circuit board 428 may be provided at a position spaced upward from the upper surface of the thermal block 310. In addition, the heat lid heating circuit board 428 may move relatively to the thermal block 310 to be close or distant.

[0361] The heat lid heating circuit board 428 may include an aperture corresponding to the recess of the thermal block 310. is the aperture of the heat lid heating circuit board 428 may be configured a path through which excitation light is irradiated to the reaction container or emission light is emitted from the reaction container.

[0362] The heat lid heating circuit board 428 may include a heating channel corresponding to a central region and an edge region of the thermal block 310. For example, the heat lid heating circuit board 428 may include five heating channels including a central heating channel and four corner heating channels. In addition, the heat lid heating circuit board 428 may independently control each heating channel.

[0363] In addition, each heating channel of the heat lid heating circuit board 428 may be configured with a heat lid thermistor, and the heat lid heating circuit board 428 may include a total of five heat lid thermistors. In the heat lid heating circuit board 428, the heating channel and the sensing channel may be set to be the same.

[0364]

[0365] (1) A thermal cycler includes: a thermal module configured to perform thermal cycling by heating and cooling a sample of a reaction container provided in a thermal block; a lid assembly configured to be mounted with a heat lid for heating an upper portion of the reaction container, and which is configured to be capable of linear movement and rotation in a vertical direction; and a body assembly configured to be mounted with the thermal module, and to support the lid assembly.

[0366] (2) In the thermal cycler of (1), the lid assembly may be configured to move linearly in a horizontal direction over the body assembly to open an upper portion of the thermal block.

[0367] (3) In the thermal cycler of (1) or (2), the lid assembly may include the heat lid mounted on a bottom surface of the lid assembly, and may be configured to tilt upward relative to the body assembly to expose a bottom surface of the heat lid forward.

[0368] (4) In the thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (3), the lid assembly may include a locking device configured to fix a state in which the lid assembly is rotated upward.

[0369] (5) In the thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (4), a rotation structure of the lid assembly may include a hinge including a shaft and a pinhole plate rotating together with the shaft and having one or more pinholes, and the locking device may include a pin housing and a fixing pin movably disposed within the pin housing and selectively inserted into the pinhole.

[0370] (6) In the thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (5), the pinhole plate may include a first pinhole and a second pinhole, the first pinhole and the second pinhole may be positioned at a predetermined angle apart from each other at the same distance from the shaft, and the fixing pin may be configured to be inserted into the first pinhole when the lid assembly is closed and inserted into the second pinhole when the lid assembly is open.

[0371] (7) In the thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (6), the hinge may further include an elastic member configured to provide an elastic force in a direction to insert the fixing pin into the pinhole, wherein the fixing pin is inserted into the pinhole by the elastic force of the elastic member to maintain a rotation state of the lid assembly when the lid assembly rotates upward and the pinhole moves to a position corresponding to the fixing pin, and the lid assembly may be converted into a state in which it can rotate in a reverse direction when an external force greater than the elastic force is applied in a direction opposite to the direction of elastic force provision of the elastic member and the fixing pin is separated from the pinhole.

[0372] (8) The thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (7) may further include a lid guide member configured to guide the lid assembly to linearly move over the body assembly, and the lid guide member may include a lid rail and a lid block configured to slide on the lid rail.

[0373] (9) In the thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (8), the lid assembly may include a lid base unit movably coupled on the body assembly, and the lid base unit may be configured to tilt relative to the body assembly.

[0374] (10) In the thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (9), the lid base unit may include: a lower frame coupled on the body assembly to be linearly movable; an upper frame rotatably coupled to the lower frame; and a hinge rotatably connecting the lower frame and the upper frame.

[0375] (11) The thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (10) may further include an optical unit configured to irradiate light to a sample of the reaction container and detect a target signal from the sample, the lid assembly may further include a moving unit on which the optical unit is mounted, the moving unit may be supported by the lid base unit and moves in y-axis direction, and the optical unit may be supported by the moving unit and moves in x-axis direction.

[0376] (12) The thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (11) may further include a lid actuator configured to linearly drive the lid assembly, wherein the lid actuator may be supported to the body assembly.

[0377] (13) In the thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (12), the lid actuator may include: a lid driving motor; a lid power transmission unit connected to the lid driving motor; and a lid connection member connecting the lid power transmission unit and the lid assembly.

[0378] (14) In the thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (13), the lid power transmission unit may include a screw shaft, a threaded nut coupled to the screw shaft, and a coupling connecting the lid driving motor and the screw shaft, and one side of the lid connection member may be connected to the threaded nut and the other side may be connected to the lid assembly.

[0379] (15) In the thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (14), the heat lid may be configured to be attachable and detachable from a bottom surface of the lid assembly, the thermal module may be configured to ascend and descend, and the heat lid relatively presses the upper portion of the reaction container while the thermal module ascends.

[0380] (16) The thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (15) may further include a height adjustment unit configured to raise and lower the thermal module, and the height adjustment unit may be connected to and disposed at one side of the thermal module.

[0381] (17) The thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (16) may further include a controller configured to control driving of the lid assembly and the body assembly, wherein the controller may be configured to: linearly move the lid assembly over the thermal block to open upward the top surfaceof the thermal block when the thermal module is in a lowered position; linearly move the lid assembly in a reverse direction to return it over the thermal block when the reaction container is placed on the thermal block; and then raise the thermal module from the lowered position such that the heat lid relatively presses the upper portion of the reaction container.

[0382] (18) In the thermal cycler of any one of (1) to (17), the lid assembly may be configured to be manually rotatable, allowing for repair or replacement of the heat lid in a state of being rotated upward.

[0383] (19) A thermal cycler includes: a housing; a cover provided on an upper portion of the housing and configured to open and close to allow a reaction container to be inserted into and removed from an upper portion of the housing; a thermal module configured to perform thermal cycling by heating and cooling a sample of the reaction container provided in a thermal block; an optical unit configured to irradiate light onto the sample of the reaction container and detect a target signal from the sample; a body assembly including a body frame on which the thermal module is mounted; a heat lid configured to heat an upper portion of the reaction container; and a lid assembly configured to mount the heat lid and the optical unit and be supported on the body assembly, wherein the heat lid is mounted on a bottom surface of the lid assembly, wherein the lid assembly is configured to move linearly in a horizontal direction over the body assembly to open an upper portion of the thermal block through an opening opened by the cover, and to rotate upward relative to the body assembly to expose a bottom surface of the heat lid forward.

[0384] (20) An apparatus for detecting a target analyte includes: a lid base unit positioned above a thermal block having recesses formed in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular thereto; a support frame coupled onto the lid base unit to be movable in the second direction; an optical unit configured to irradiate light onto a sample provided in the recess of the thermal block and to detect a target signal from the sample, the optical unit being connected to the support frame to be movable in the first direction relative to the support frame; a first axis driving motor configured to provide a driving force for moving the optical unit in the first direction; and a second axis driving motor configured to provide a driving force for moving the support frame in the second direction, wherein the first axis driving motor and the second axis driving motor are each supported on the support frame.

[0385] (21) A thermal cycler includes: an input / output module including a display and an input device; an integrated assembly including a body assembly on which a thermal module for performing thermal cycling by heating and cooling a sample of a reaction container provided in a thermal block is mounted, and a lid assembly on which an optical unit for irradiating light to the sample of the reaction container and detecting a target signal from the sample is mounted; a lid linear driving module configured to move linearly the lid assembly on the body assembly; an integrated control module configured to control a thermal control board for controlling the thermal module and an optical control board for controlling the optical unit; and a first power supply module configured to supply power to the thermal module, wherein the input / output module, the lid linear driving module, the integrated control module, and the first power supply module are respectively located at any one of a front side, a rear side, a right side, and a left side of the integrated assembly.

[0386]

[0387] The above description is merely illustrative of the technical idea of the present invention, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs will be able to make various modifications and modifications without departing from the essential quality of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present disclosure are not for limiting the technical idea of the present disclosure, but for explaining the technical idea of the present disclosure, and the scope of the technical idea of the present disclosure is not limited by the embodiments. The scope of protection of the present invention should be interpreted by the following claims, and all technical ideas within the same scope should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention.

[0388]

[0389] [Description of a code]

[0390] 100: input / output module, 200: optical unit,

[0391] 300: thermal module, 310: thermal module,

[0392] 320: thermoelectric element, 330: heat sink, 340: cooling fan,

[0393] 400: integrated control module,

[0394] 410: optical control module, 420: thermal control module,

[0395] 421: control circuit board, 422: driving circuit board,

[0396] 423: interface circuit board,

[0397] 424: thermal element connection circuit board,

[0398] 425: thermal block heating circuit board, 426: heat sink circuit board,

[0399] 427: heat lid connection circuit board,

[0400] 428: heat lid heating circuit board,

[0401] 500: fan module, 610, 620: power supply module,

[0402] 1000: lid assembly, 1100: lid base unit,

[0403] 1110: lower frame, 1111: fixed hinge bracket,

[0404] 1120: upper frame, 1121: rotating hinge bracket,

[0405] 1130: hinge, 1140: locking device,

[0406] 1150: first axis guide member, 1160: second axis guide member,

[0407] 1200: moving unit, 1210: support frame,

[0408] 1220: optical unit bracket, 1231: first axis driving motor,

[0409] 1241: second axis driving motor, 1250: optical control board,

[0410] 1300: heat lid,

[0411] 2000: body assembly, 2100: body base unit,

[0412] 2120: lid guide member, 2130: lid actuator,

[0413] 2200: vertical axis guide member, 2300: height adjustment unit,

[0414] 2400: thermal pocket unit.

Claims

1.A thermal cycler, comprising:a thermal module configured to perform thermal cycling by heating and cooling a sample of a reaction container provided in a thermal block;a lid assembly configured to be mounted with a heat lid for heating an upper portion of the reaction container, and which is configured to be capable of linear movement and rotation in a vertical direction; anda body assembly configured to be mounted with the thermal module, and to support the lid assembly.2.The thermal cycler of claim 1, wherein the lid assembly is configured to move linearly in a horizontal direction over the body assembly to open an upper portion of the thermal block.3.The thermal cycler of claim 1, wherein the lid assembly comprises the heat lid mounted on a bottom surface of the lid assembly, and is configured to tilt upward relative to the body assembly to expose a bottom surface of the heat lid forward.4.The thermal cycler of claim 3, wherein the lid assembly comprises a locking device configured to fix a state in which the lid assembly is rotated upward.5.The thermal cycler of claim 4, wherein a rotation structure of the lid assembly comprises a hinge including a shaft and a pinhole plate rotating together with the shaft and having one or more pinholes, and wherein the locking device includes a pin housing and a fixing pin movably disposed within the pin housing and selectively inserted into the pinhole.6.The thermal cycler of claim 5, wherein the pinhole plate comprises a first pinhole and a second pinhole, wherein the first pinhole and the second pinhole positioned at a predetermined angle apart from each other at the same distance from the shaft, and wherein the fixing pin is configured to be inserted into the first pinhole when the lid assembly is closed and inserted into the second pinhole when the lid assembly is open.7.The thermal cycler of claim 5, wherein the hinge further comprises an elastic member configured to provide an elastic force in a direction to insert the fixing pin into the pinhole, wherein the fixing pin is inserted into the pinhole by the elastic force of the elastic member to maintain a rotation state of the lid assembly when the lid assembly rotates upward and the pinhole moves to a position corresponding to the fixing pin, and wherein the lid assembly is converted into a state in which it can rotate in a reverse direction when an external force greater than the elastic force is applied in a direction opposite to the direction of elastic force provision of the elastic member and the fixing pin is separated from the pinhole.8.The thermal cycler of claim 1, further comprising a lid guide member configured to guide the lid assembly to linearly move over the body assembly, wherein the lid guide member comprises a lid rail and a lid block configured to slide on the lid rail.9.The thermal cycler of claim 1, wherein the lid assembly comprises a lid base unit movably coupled on the body assembly, and the lid base unit is configured to tilt relative to the body assembly.10.The thermal cycler of claim 9, wherein the lid base unit comprises: a lower frame coupled on the body assembly to be linearly movable; an upper frame rotatably coupled to the lower frame; and a hinge rotatably connecting the lower frame and the upper frame.11.The thermal cycler of claim 9, further comprising an optical unit configured to irradiate light to a sample of the reaction container and detect a target signal from the sample,wherein the lid assembly further comprises a moving unit on which the optical unit is mounted, wherein the moving unit is supported by the lid base unit and moves in y-axis direction, and wherein the optical unit is supported by the moving unit and moves in x-axis direction.12.The thermal cycler of claim 1, further comprising a lid actuator configured to linearly drive the lid assembly, wherein the lid actuator is supported to the body assembly.13.The thermal cycler of claim 12, wherein the lid actuator comprises: a lid driving motor; a lid power transmission unit connected to the lid driving motor; and a lid connection member connecting the lid power transmission unit and the lid assembly.14.The thermal cycler of claim 13, wherein the lid power transmission unit comprises a screw shaft, a threaded nut coupled to the screw shaft, and a coupling connecting the lid driving motor and the screw shaft, and wherein one side of the lid connection member is connected to the threaded nut and the other side is connected to the lid assembly.15.The thermal cycler of claim 1, wherein the heat lid is configured to be attachable and detachable from a bottom surface of the lid assembly, the thermal module is configured to ascend and descend, and the heat lid relatively presses the upper portion of the reaction container while the thermal module ascends.16.The thermal cycler of claim 1, further comprising a height adjustment unit configured to raise and lower the thermal module, wherein the height adjustment unit is connected to and disposed at one side of the thermal module.17.The thermal cycler of claim 16, further comprising a controller configured to control driving of the lid assembly and the body assembly, wherein the controller is configured to: linearly move the lid assembly over the thermal block to open upward the top surfaceof the thermal block when the thermal module is in a lowered position; linearly move the lid assembly in a reverse direction to return it over the thermal block when the reaction container is placed on the thermal block; and then raise the thermal module from the lowered position such that the heat lid relatively presses the upper portion of the reaction container.18.The thermal cycler of claim 3, wherein the lid assembly is configured to be manually rotatable, allowing for repair or replacement of the heat lid in a state of being rotated upward.19.A thermal cycler comprising:a housing;a cover provided on an upper portion of the housing and configured to open and clos to allow a reaction container to be inserted into and removed from an upper portion of the housing;a thermal module configured to perform thermal cycling by heating and cooling a sample of the reaction container provided in a thermal block;an optical unit configured to irradiate light onto the sample of the reaction container and detect a target signal from the sample;a body assembly including a body frame on which the thermal module is mounted;a heat lid configured to heat an upper portion of the reaction container; anda lid assembly configured to mount the heat lid and the optical unit and be supported on the body assembly,wherein the heat lid is mounted on a bottom surface of the lid assembly,wherein the lid assembly is configured to move linearly in a horizontal direction over the body assembly to open an upper portion of the thermal block through an opening opened by the cover, and to rotate upward relative to the body assembly to expose a bottom surface of the heat lid forward.20.An apparatus for detecting a target analyte, the apparatus comprising:a lid base unit positioned above a thermal block having recesses formed in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular thereto;a support frame coupled onto the lid base unit to be movable in the second direction;an optical unit configured to irradiate light onto a sample provided in the recess of the thermal block and to detect a target signal from the sample, the optical unit being connected to the support frame to be movable in the first direction relative to the support frame;a first axis driving motor configured to provide a driving force for moving the optical unit in the first direction; anda second axis driving motor configured to provide a driving force for moving the support frame in the second direction,wherein the first axis driving motor and the second axis driving motor are each supported on the support frame.21.A thermal cycler comprising:an input / output module including a display and an input device;an integrated assembly including a body assembly on which a thermal module for performing thermal cycling by heating and cooling a sample of a reaction container provided in a thermal block is mounted, and a lid assembly on which an optical unit for irradiating light to the sample of the reaction container and detecting a target signal from the sample is mounted;a lid linear driving module configured to move linearly the lid assembly on the body assembly;an integrated control module configured to control a thermal control board for controlling the thermal module and an optical control board for controlling the optical unit; anda first power supply module configured to supply power to the thermal module,wherein the input / output module, the lid linear driving module, the integrated control module, and the first power supply module are respectively located at any one of a front side, a rear side, a right side, and a left side of the integrated assembly.

Images