Automated Molecular Operating System for Nucleic Acid Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nucleic acid detection methods, such as PCR, require manual handling and temperature control, leading to inconsistencies and increased labor costs due to the need for multiple temperature cycles and manual transfer between devices.
Innovation Solution
An automated molecular operating system that integrates centrifuge tube carrying modules, a transport module, temperature control modules, a capping module, a magnetic field module, and an automated processing module to perform nucleic acid extraction, amplification, primer labeling, and reverse transcription in an automated and sequential manner within the same system environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual handling and temperature control are used for PCR processes, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and reliability deteriorate due to inconsistencies in temperature change and manual operation errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate devices (centrifuge, temperature control modules, magnetic field module, capping module) into an integrated automated molecular operating system. The transport module physically connects these functional modules, allowing automated transfer of centrifuge tubes between them. This merging eliminates manual handling while maintaining systematic simplicity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automated self-service through the processing module that automatically controls temperature cycles, triggers centrifugation, applies magnetic fields, and caps tubes without human intervention. The transport module autonomously moves samples between modules based on programmed sequences, eliminating manual operation errors and ensuring consistent temperature control throughout the PCR process.
2Device complexity
If manual transfer between single-function devices is performed, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to increased manual labor and waiting time
Solution Approach 1:
The system ensures continuous automated operation by implementing a coordinated sequence where the transport module continuously transfers centrifuge tubes between functional modules without manual interruption. Temperature control modules continuously maintain required temperatures during transitions, and the processing module continuously monitors and adjusts parameters, eliminating idle waiting time and maximizing productivity through uninterrupted automated workflows.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple temperature cycles are performed manually, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but loss of time increases due to manual waiting for specimen reactions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-programming the entire temperature cycle sequence and sample transfer schedule before the PCR process begins. The processing module pre-cools or pre-heats modules to required temperatures, and the transport module pre-positions centrifuge tubes for optimal transfer timing. This preliminary preparation eliminates delays during actual temperature cycling, maintaining precision while reducing total reaction time through efficient parallel operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The automated system reduces manual errors, minimizes labor costs, and ensures consistent temperature control, allowing for efficient and automated performance of nucleic acid detection processes, thereby improving the convenience and accuracy of nucleic acid detection.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic field module, and an automated processing module
Implementation Method 2
Each of the plurality of temperature control modules is provided with a plurality of second accommodating holes and a temperature control unit. The temperature control unit controls a temperature of the temperature control module to achieve a required reaction temperature
Data Source
AI summary
An automated molecular operating system includes at least one centrifuge tube carrying module, a transport module, a plurality of temperature control modules, a capping module, a magnetic field module and an automated processing module. The automated processing module is electrically connected to the transport module, the temperature control modules, the capping module and the magnetic field module, and controls the transport module to move the centrifuge tube carrying module, so that a centrifuge tube contained in the centrifuge tube carrying module makes a reaction in the temperature control modules, and the magnetic field module or the capping module is provided to the centrifuge tube according to requirements, such that a specimen in the centrifuge tube can be automatically subjected to nucleic acid extraction, nucleic acid amplification, primer labeling, reverse transcription or a combination thereof, thereby reducing manual operation errors and increasing the ease of operation.