Convective PCR Apparatus Side-Wall Fluorescence Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional PCR apparatuses face inefficiencies due to indirect thermal cycling, large machine volume, and optical path interference from biological specimen residues in convective PCR, limiting detection efficiency and scope.
Innovation Solution
A convective PCR apparatus with a tube, temperature control unit, and optical detecting method where the light source is positioned above half the liquid level to excite fluorescence, and the sensor detects at a non-straight angle relative to the tube axis, minimizing optical path interference and enhancing space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the light source is disposed under the bottom of the tube to excite fluorescent reagent, then the fluorescence signal can be detected, but the biological specimen residues decapitate at the bottom and obstruct the optical path, preventing light transmission and signal detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light source and sensor from the traditional bottom-positioned configuration and relocates them to the side wall of the reaction vessel. This extraction of the optical components from the problematic bottom region eliminates the optical path obstruction caused by decapitated specimen residues while maintaining fluorescence signal detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical path through the side wall of the reaction vessel, using the tube wall as a medium for light transmission. The light source excites fluorescent reagents in the reaction solution, and the emitted fluorescence is detected through the side wall, creating an indirect but unobstructed optical path that avoids the bottom residue problem.
2Reliability
If conventional multi-level indirect heating is used for thermal cycling, then the DNA or RNA segments can undergo denaturation, adhesion and extension reactions, but the procedure consumes large amounts of time and requires large machine volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional multi-level indirect thermal cycling system with a convective heating system. Instead of using complex mechanical heating blocks and multiple heating zones, the system uses convection currents generated within the reaction solution to achieve uniform and rapid temperature cycling, dramatically reducing thermal cycling time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes phase transition principles through convective heating, where temperature differences create density gradients in the reaction solution, generating natural convection currents. These convection currents rapidly distribute thermal energy throughout the reaction mixture, achieving efficient thermal cycling without complex mechanical systems.
3Reliability
If conventional PCR apparatus is used, then the DNA expansion can be completed through thermal cycling, but the apparatus and instrument volume is large and detection efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the heating function and detection function into a single integrated reaction vessel system. The reaction vessel serves as both the reaction chamber and the detection chamber, with the light source and sensor positioned on the side wall, eliminating the need for separate heating blocks and detection modules, thus miniaturizing the overall apparatus volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a traditional vertical stacking arrangement of heating and detection components to a lateral integration approach where optical detection is performed through the side wall of the reaction vessel. This dimensional change in component arrangement enables compact integration and significant volume reduction.
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
This configuration maximizes fluorescence signal detection, reduces apparatus volume, and addresses optical path interference issues, leading to improved PCR performance and miniaturization.
Implementation Method 1
providing a light beam to excite the fluorescent reagent inside the tube to generate a fluorescence signal
Implementation Method 2
the reaction solution generates temperature gradient and causes thermal convection
Data Source
AI summary
A convective polymerase chain reaction apparatus includes a tube, a temperature control unit, at least one light source and a sensor. The tube includes a cavity used to contain a reaction solution. The reaction solution has a liquid level measured from a bottom of the cavity to a top surface of the reaction solution. The temperature control unit is disposed adjacent to the tube for controlling the temperature of the reaction solution. The at least one light source provides a light beam passing through an incident portion of the tube to excite the reaction solution emitting a fluorescent light. The incident portion is located at a height greater than ½ of a liquid level. The sensor is adjacent to the tube for detecting the excited fluorescence. The light beam has an incident direction forming a non-straight angle with a long axis of the tube.