Fluorescence Generating Device for Digital PCR Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital PCR analysis systems face challenges in efficiently detecting fluorescence from liquid drops, which hampers rapid and accurate identification of high-risk pathogens.
Innovation Solution
A fluorescence generating device is introduced, featuring a clad layer, optical waveguides, and a housing with a micro fluid channel. This device uses input and output waveguides with inclined surfaces and reflection layers to enhance fluorescence detection efficiency by propagating excitation and fluorescent light in opposite directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional fluorescence detection methods are used in digital PCR systems, then the system can perform pathogen detection, but the fluorescence detection efficiency is insufficient for rapid and accurate identification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional top-down illumination to side-wall illumination by positioning the light source at the lateral wall of the microfluidic channel. This dimensional change allows excitation light to propagate along the channel wall and illuminate liquid drops from the side, significantly improving fluorescence detection efficiency and enabling rapid pathogen identification
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reflective layer on the inner surface of the microfluidic channel to act as an intermediary that redirects and concentrates excitation light onto the liquid drops. This reflective mediator enhances light utilization efficiency and improves fluorescence signal intensity, thereby accelerating detection
2Measurement precision
If conventional optical paths are used, then the system structure is simple, but fluorescence detection efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light source, microfluidic channel with integrated reflective layers, and detection components into a compact unified structure. The side-wall illumination approach merges the excitation path and detection path in a single integrated optical system, improving fluorescence detection efficiency without significantly increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies reflective layers selectively on specific inner surfaces of the microfluidic channel where light redirection is most beneficial. This localized optimization of optical properties enhances fluorescence detection efficiency at critical points while maintaining overall system simplicity
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 fluorescence generating device significantly enhances fluorescence detection efficiency, enabling more accurate and rapid analysis of pathogens, thereby supporting timely diagnostic processes.
Implementation Method 1
an input waveguide which is provided within one side of the clad layer and provides excitation light to a liquid drop within the micro fluid channel to generate fluorescent light
Implementation Method 2
an output waveguide provided within the other side of the clad layer, the output waveguide having an output inclined surface disposed between the micro fluid channel and the clad layer to reflect the fluorescent light
Implementation Method 3
the input waveguide having an input inclined surface disposed between the micro fluid channel and the clad layer to reflect the excitation light to the liquid drop within the micro fluid channel
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a fluorescence generating device and a digital PCR analysis system including the same. The fluorescence generating device includes a clad layer on a substrate, an optical waveguide arranged in a first direction within the clad layer, and a housing which is disposed on the optical waveguide and the clad layer and has a micro fluid channel extending in a second direction. The optical waveguide includes an input waveguide which is provided within one side of the clad layer and provides excitation light to a liquid drop within the micro fluid channel to generate fluorescent light, and an output waveguide which is provided within the other side of the clad layer and has an output inclined surface that reflects the fluorescent light.