Integrated Nucleic Acid Processing Apparatus with Segmented Extraction Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated nucleic acid processing apparatuses are bulky, expensive, and do not effectively reduce manual operation burdens, as they often leave procedures like magnetic beads-based nucleic acid extraction to be performed manually, which can lead to cross-contamination and operator infection risks.
Innovation Solution
An integrated nucleic acid processing apparatus with a first operation area for barcode scanning, sample transferring, and reagent allocation, and a second operation area for nucleic acid extraction, separated by a wall with door sheets to minimize cross-contamination, and equipped with automated modules for pipette tip management, cover opening/closing, and visual identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If multiple processing procedures are integrated into a single apparatus, then automation extent and detection efficiency are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into multiple independent operation areas (first operation area for sample processing, second operation area for nucleic acid extraction) separated by a separation wall with door sheets. Each area contains specific processing modules that can operate independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high automation through modular integration.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple processing procedures including barcode scanning, sample transfer, reagent allocation, cover opening/closing, and nucleic acid extraction are merged into a single integrated apparatus. The carrier boards with multiple functions (sampling tube carrying board, pipette tip carrying board, extraction plate carrying boards) enable consolidation of operations that would otherwise require separate devices.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If magnetic beads-based nucleic acid extraction is performed manually, then cross contamination risk increases, but automation extent decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The nucleic acid extraction operation area is physically separated from the sample processing area by a separation wall with door sheets. This spatial segmentation prevents aerosol-generated cross contamination while enabling automated extraction operations within the isolated second operation area.
Solution Approach 2:
Door sheets act as intermediaries between the first and second operation areas. These door sheets can be opened to allow transfer of carrier boards and closed to isolate the nucleic acid extraction area, preventing cross contamination while enabling automated operation through their controlled movement.
3Productivity
If automated apparatuses are designed with comprehensive integration, then detection efficiency improves, but device volume and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus utilizes vertical space by arranging carrier boards at different heights and positions. The sampling tube carrying board, pipette tip carrying board, and extraction plate carrying boards are positioned to move along rails in X-axis direction while the pipettor module moves in Y-axis and Z-axis directions, creating a compact three-dimensional layout that reduces overall volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier boards are designed with multiple functions: the sampling tube carrying board holds sampling tubes and enables barcode scanning; the pipette tip carrying board stores and supplies pipette tips; the extraction plate carrying boards transport plates for nucleic acid extraction. This multi-functionality consolidates multiple devices into one compact apparatus, improving detection efficiency while controlling volume.
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 apparatus achieves fully automated nucleic acid processing, reduces the volume and cost of the equipment, minimizes cross-contamination risks, and enhances detection efficiency and accuracy by integrating multiple processing procedures into a compact, automated system.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic rod sleeve connector holder for mounting thereon a plurality of magnetic rod sleeve connectors for connecting with the plurality of magnetic rod sleeves disposed in the plurality of nucleic acid extraction plates
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated nucleic acid processing apparatus includes a first operation area, a second operation area and a separation wall. The first operation area includes multiple carrying boards for placing objects and reagents for processing nucleic acids in samples, and multiple operation modules for performing operations of nucleic acid processing. The second operation area includes two extraction regions for respectively performing nucleic acid extractions. The separation wall separates the first operation area from the second operation area and includes two openable door sheets spatially corresponding to the two extraction regions. Nucleic acid extraction plates can be moved from the first operation area to the second operation area by means of the carrying boards as the two openable door sheets are opened, and be isolated in the second operation area for performing nucleic acid extractions as the two openable door sheets are closed.