Multi-branched Waveguide for Real-time PCR Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical detection systems for polymerase chain reactions (PCR) face challenges in efficiently detecting stationary samples with reduced sample read time and simultaneous reading of multiple light wavelengths, often requiring complex alignments and direct fiber optic connections.
Innovation Solution
A modular PCR device with integrated light emitting diodes, photodiodes, and a multi-branched waveguide system that allows for real-time detection of nucleic acid amplification, eliminating the need for precise alignments and direct fiber optic connections, and enabling simultaneous reading of multiple wavelengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If direct fiber optic connections are used between light source and sample holder, then light transmission efficiency is improved, but device complexity and alignment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a multi-branched waveguide as an intermediary component between the light source and sample holder. This waveguide system transmits light without requiring direct fiber optic connections, thereby maintaining light transmission efficiency while eliminating complex alignment requirements. The waveguide acts as a mediator that couples the light source to the sample through a flexible, alignment-tolerant pathway.
2Device complexity
If sequential reading of samples is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but sample throughput and read time are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical detection system into multiple independent detection channels, each capable of simultaneously reading different samples or wavelengths. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple samples rather than sequential reading, significantly increasing sample throughput while keeping each individual detection channel relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from sequential reading (one-dimensional time-based approach) to simultaneous multi-wavelength reading (multi-dimensional approach). By adding the wavelength dimension to the detection process, the system can read multiple samples or features at the same time, thereby increasing productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Speed
If multiple light wavelengths are read simultaneously, then detection speed is improved, but hardware requirements and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple light sources and detection channels into a single integrated optical detection system. By combining multiple wavelengths and detection functions into one unified system with shared optical pathways and compact components, the patent achieves simultaneous multi-wavelength reading while minimizing the overall hardware footprint and space requirements.
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 system achieves high-speed PCR amplification and detection with reduced sample read time, improved reliability, and increased sample throughput, while minimizing hardware requirements and maintaining minimal space occupation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light emitting diode device (device being an integrated assembly of light emitting diodes or a compact group of light emitting diodes) that is carried on at least one support substrate, is in electrical communication with a power source, and is adapted to emit light at a plurality of different wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
at least one photodiode detector device (the device being an integrated assembly of photodiodes (e.g. photodiode array), an individual photodiode or compact group of photodiodes) may also be included such that the detector is adapted to issue signals based upon intensity of light it receives
Implementation Method 3
a light transmission assembly that includes at least one multi-branched waveguide and at least one manifold (e.g., a fiber optics block) that is configured to support the waveguide between the sample holder and both the at least one light emitting diode device and the at least one photodiode detector device
Implementation Method 4
receives a biological sample having a nucleic acid to be amplified and at least one fluorescing agent that interacts with the nucleic acid during amplification and that emits light upon excitation by light of a known wavelength
Data Source
AI summary
An improved device and system for facilitating polymerase chain reaction including a light source, detector, waveguide, and filters that occupy minimal space and facilitate reduced sample read time and rapid reading of multiple light wavelengths.