Automated Nucleic Acid Analysis Device with Integrated Preprocessing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current molecular diagnosis devices face challenges in simplifying sample preprocessing and DNA/RNA amplification processes, which are time-consuming, prone to contamination, and have complex structures increasing fabrication costs.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a sample preprocessing device featuring chambers for reagent mixing and nucleic acid extraction, and a nucleic acid amplifying and detecting device with temperature-controlled heating units, optimized for continuous processing and contamination prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual sample preprocessing and DNA/RNA amplification processes are used, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but processing time increases and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate operations (sample preprocessing, nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection) into a single integrated automated system. The closed-tube architecture merges reagent storage, mixing, thermal cycling, and detection functions, eliminating manual transfer steps and reducing contamination risk while maintaining systematic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed with multi-functional capabilities to handle various nucleic acid processing operations within a single device. The system can perform extraction, amplification, and detection of different nucleic acid types (DNA, RNA) using a unified platform, reducing the need for multiple separate devices and manual procedures.
2Productivity
If complex device structure is used for sample processing, then processing capability is improved, but fabrication cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into distinct functional modules including a closed-tube assembly, thermal cycling system, and detection system. Each module performs a specific function and can be manufactured independently, then assembled into the complete system. This modular approach maintains advanced processing capability while reducing overall fabrication complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the closed-tube assembly is positioned within the reaction chamber, which is itself part of the larger thermal cycling system. This nested arrangement allows multiple functions to be contained within a compact footprint, reducing the overall device size and manufacturing cost while maintaining full processing capability.
3Loss of time
If manual mixing and processing of samples and reagents is performed, then adaptability to different protocols is maintained, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Reagents are pre-loaded into the closed-tube assembly before the amplification process begins. The system performs automated mixing and preparation steps prior to thermal cycling, eliminating manual intervention during the time-critical amplification phases. This preliminary preparation significantly reduces total processing time while maintaining protocol flexibility through programmable control.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus performs self-mixing of reagents and samples through automated dispensing and vortexing mechanisms integrated into the closed-tube system. The system monitors and adjusts its own operation parameters, reducing the need for manual操作 and minimizing processing time while maintaining adaptability to different protocols through software control.
4Reliability
If multiple separate devices are used for preprocessing and amplification, then functional specialization is achieved, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates preprocessing and amplification functions into a single closed-tube system, eliminating the need to open tubes during sample transfer between devices. This merging of functions maintains functional specialization while preventing contamination by keeping the sample environment sealed throughout the entire process.
Solution Approach 2:
The closed-tube assembly acts as an intermediary barrier between the external environment and the sensitive nucleic acid samples. All reagent additions and processing steps occur through sealed interfaces, preventing external contamination while allowing controlled interaction between components. The tube serves as a protective mediator that maintains sample integrity throughout processing.
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
Simplifies the preprocessing and amplification processes, reduces processing time, prevents contamination, and stabilizes residual collection, thereby enhancing the efficiency and reliability of molecular diagnosis.
Implementation Method 1
a first heating unit for heating the sample to a first temperature for denaturing the sample; a second heating unit for heating the sample to a second temperature for annealing primers to the sample; a third heating unit for heating the sample to a third temperature for extending the primers
Implementation Method 2
a first heating unit for heating the sample to a first temperature for denaturing the sample
Implementation Method 3
a second heating unit for heating the sample to a second temperature for annealing primers to the sample
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for automatically analyzing a nucleic acid includes: a sample preprocessing device including a plurality of chambers in which reagents mixed with a sample are accommodated according to sample preprocessing process order for extracting a nucleic acid from the sample; and a nucleic amplifying and detecting device connected with the sample preprocessing device to receive the nucleic acid extracted from the sample.