Nucleic Acid Amplifier With Segmented Temperature Control Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional nucleic acid amplification technologies, such as the PCR method, are limited in processing efficiency as they can only handle one protocol at a time and cannot process multiple samples differing in protocols in parallel, or start new processes until current ones are finished.
Innovation Solution
A nucleic acid amplifier with a disk-shaped base member and multiple temperature control blocks arranged along its periphery, allowing for simultaneous temperature control of multiple reaction vessels, enabling parallel processing of samples with different protocols and allowing new processes to begin during ongoing ones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single temperature control device is used to control one reaction vessel, then the temperature can be precisely controlled for that single sample, but multiple samples with different protocols cannot be processed in parallel
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature control device is segmented into multiple independent temperature control blocks (first, second, third temperature control blocks) arranged along the periphery of the base member. Each block can independently control the temperature of its associated reaction vessel, enabling parallel processing of multiple samples with different temperature protocols while maintaining precise temperature control for each individual sample
Solution Approach 2:
The base member serves multiple functions: it supports multiple reaction vessels, provides a rotating mechanism for sample processing, and integrates multiple temperature control blocks. This multi-functional design enables the system to process multiple samples with different protocols simultaneously without requiring separate dedicated devices for each function
2Productivity
If a single reaction vessel is used, then the protocol can be precisely executed for that sample, but new processes cannot be started until the current process finishes
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple independent reaction vessels (first, second, third reaction vessels) that can operate simultaneously with different protocols. This segmentation allows one sample to be processed while another is being prepared or is in a different stage of processing, eliminating idle waiting time and increasing overall throughput
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple reaction vessels can be prepared in advance with different reagents and conditions while the system is running. The rotating base member allows pre-prepared reaction vessels to be automatically positioned and processed without waiting for previous samples to complete, enabling continuous operation and reducing idle time
3Productivity
If multiple temperature control blocks are arranged along the periphery of a rotatable base member, then multiple samples can be processed in parallel with different protocols, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple temperature control blocks and their associated reaction vessels are merged into a single rotating base member assembly. This integration allows the system to handle multiple samples with different protocols simultaneously through rotation, achieving parallel processing capability while consolidating what could have been separate complex devices into one unified structure
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 significantly increases processing efficiency by enabling the simultaneous amplification of multiple samples with different protocols and allowing new samples to be processed without waiting for ongoing processes to complete.
Implementation Method 1
the microchip is pushed toward the stage by using a cover member so as to bring the microchip's bath region into contact with one of heat transfer parts that are arranged in the circumferential direction of the stage and set at different temperatures, by which the temperature of the bath region is controlled
Data Source
AI summary
A nucleic acid amplifier comprises a holder 3 which is provided with a plurality of temperature control blocks 10 each designed to hold at least one reaction vessel 105 storing a reaction solution. The temperature of the reaction solution in each reaction vessel 105 is controlled individually by using temperature control devices 14 and 15 arranged in each of the temperature control blocks 10. The temperature that is set in each temperature control block 10 and the timing for temperature changes are controlled independently of the temperatures of other temperature control blocks 10. This configuration makes it possible to provide a nucleic acid amplifier and a nucleic acid inspection device (employing the nucleic acid amplifier) capable of processing multiple types of samples differing in the protocol in parallel (parallel processing) and starting a process for a different sample even when there is a process in execution.