Multi-Channel Fluorescence Detection Device Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluorescence detection devices for multi-color qPCR applications are bulky, heavy, and face challenges with misalignment issues, failing to efficiently detect multiple fluorescent probes simultaneously with high precision.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel fluorescence detection device featuring an illumination module with broad band light sources and rotating excitation filters, a detection module with emission filters and photo-detectors, and a transmission module that synchronizes these components to match specific wavelengths of targeted fluorescent probes, minimizing size and weight while enhancing precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single white light source with filters and optical components is used for fluorescence detection, then the device structure becomes complex and bulky, but the detection capability is maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fluorescence detection device into multiple independent detection channels, each dedicated to a specific fluorescent probe wavelength. Each channel includes its own light source, excitation filter, emission filter, and detector, eliminating the need for complex filter switching mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining detection precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a modular detection system where each detection channel can detect multiple fluorescent probes simultaneously through parallel processing. The multi-channel architecture provides universal detection capability across different wavelengths without requiring separate devices or complex mechanical switching, thus reducing device complexity while preserving measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If multiple fluorescent probes are detected simultaneously, then the device size and weight increase, but the detection accuracy is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a segmented multi-channel detection architecture where each channel is independently optimized for specific wavelength detection. This segmentation allows parallel detection of multiple fluorescent probes without requiring a single bulky device, reducing overall weight while maintaining high detection accuracy through dedicated detection paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from sequential detection (single channel) to parallel detection (multiple channels), adding a dimensional aspect to the detection system. This multi-dimensional approach enables simultaneous detection of multiple fluorescent probes with different wavelengths, improving detection accuracy while distributing the device weight across multiple smaller modular units.
3Reliability
If conventional fluorescence detection devices are used for multi-color qPCR, then misalignment between light sources, PCR samples and detectors occurs, but the detection function is provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light source, PCR sample holder, and detector into a vertically aligned integrated detection path for each channel. This combined structure eliminates misalignment issues between separate components while maintaining a relatively simple device structure through modular channel design, thus improving reliability without significantly increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the detection system into independent vertical channels, each with its own aligned light source, sample position, and detector. This segmentation isolates alignment requirements to individual channels rather than requiring complex cross-component alignment across the entire device, improving reliability while keeping each channel's structure simple and modular.
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 device achieves superior performance in multi-color qPCR applications by reducing crosstalk and increasing signal-to-noise ratio, allowing for accurate detection of multiple fluorescent probes with reduced complexity and size, and is more compact and lightweight compared to existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
When fluorescent signals emitted from the targeted nucleic acids which possess DNA-binding dyes or fluorescein-binding probes due to the excitation illuminated at specific wavelength
Implementation Method 2
each of the emission filters passes light at a particular band width
Implementation Method 3
the photo-detector receives fluorescent signals and converts the fluorescent signals to electrical signals
Data Source
AI summary
The multi-channel fluorescence detection device includes an illumination module, plural heating chambers, a detection module and a transmission module. The illumination module includes at least one light source, plural different types of excitation filters, and a first rotational drum, wherein the light source provides a broad band illumination, each of the excitation filters passes light at a particular band width for exciting a targeted fluorescent probe, and the first rotational drum drives the excitation filters. The plural heating chambers are adapted for accommodating PCR tubes having samples and the targeted fluorescent probes. The detection module includes plural different types of emission filters, a second rotational drum and at least one photo-detector, wherein each of the emission filters passes light at a particular band width, the second rotational drum drives the emission filters, and the photo-detector receives fluorescent signals and converts the fluorescent signals to electrical signals. The transmission module includes an actuator connecting with the first and the second rotational drums to drive rotations of the first and the second rotational drum simultaneously for switching and synchronizing the excitation filters and the emission filters to match specific wavelengths of the targeted fluorescent probes.