PCR Apparatus Sliding Mechanism for Rapid Thermal Cycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional PCR apparatuses face challenges in efficiently controlling temperature, handling multiple samples, and reducing PCR time, leading to increased complexity and longer processing times.
Innovation Solution
A PCR apparatus with a heating block featuring multiple heaters arranged in parallel, a plate-shaped PCR chip with integrated reaction chambers, and a sliding mechanism for sequential thermal contact between the chip and heaters, allowing for precise temperature control and simultaneous processing of multiple samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single heater is used in conventional PCR apparatus, then the structure is simple, but the PCR time is extended due to repeated heating and cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The heating block is segmented into multiple heaters (typically 3-4 heaters) arranged in series, each maintaining a different temperature corresponding to PCR steps (denaturation, annealing, extension). This segmentation eliminates the need for repeated heating and cooling cycles, thereby reducing PCR time while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic thermal action by arranging heaters in a sequence that corresponds to the periodic PCR cycle steps. As the reaction vessel moves through the heaters, each heater applies the appropriate temperature at the appropriate time, creating a periodic thermal profile that matches the PCR protocol requirements
2Loss of time
If multiple heaters are used to reduce PCR time, then the circuit configuration becomes complicated and sample handling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic movement of the reaction vessel through the stationary heater array. Instead of having complex control circuits for multiple independently controlled heaters, the system uses a single heater array with a moving reaction vessel, dynamically achieving different thermal conditions at different positions along the heating block
Solution Approach 2:
The reaction vessel serves as an intermediary that moves through the heater array, mediating the thermal transfer from multiple heaters to the sample. This intermediary approach simplifies the control system by using mechanical movement rather than complex electrical control for multiple heaters
3Device complexity
If tube-shaped reaction vessels are used, then the structure is simple, but a large amount of sample is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from three-dimensional tube-shaped vessels to two-dimensional planar reaction chambers arranged in an array. This dimensional change increases the surface area to volume ratio, improving thermal efficiency and reducing the sample volume required while maintaining structural simplicity
4Productivity
If a long channel is used to pass through multiple heaters, then the configuration becomes complicated, but multiple samples can be processed
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single long channel, the patent segments the reaction system into multiple separate reaction chambers arranged in an array. Each chamber can be independently loaded with sample, allowing parallel processing of multiple samples while maintaining simple, short channel configurations for each individual reaction
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 enables rapid and accurate PCR performance, improves sample throughput, and eliminates the need for complex temperature control systems, while minimizing equipment size and enhancing real-time measurement capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
thermal contacts between the reaction chambers formed on the PCR chip and the groups of heaters arranged on the PCR heating block are repeatedly performed
Data Source
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AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention relates to a PCR apparatus comprising a repeated sliding means and a PCR method using same. According to the present invention, the throughput of samples can be increased by simultaneously, rapidly, and accurately performing a PCR on the large number of samples through repeated thermal contact between a PCR heating block having two or more heaters disposed therein and a PCR chip having two or more reaction chambers disposed therein. In addition, the present invention is capable of: significantly improving PCR yield by preventing radial heat distribution generated by the individual heaters and the consequent nonuniform thermal overlap between the adjacent heaters; significantly contributing to the miniaturization and integration of the apparatus by requiring no separate temperature control means; furthermore, simultaneously and rapidly amplifying multiple nucleic acid samples by using the PCR heating block having heater units repeatedly disposed therein and a plate-shaped PCR chip; and checking the process of nucleic acid amplification in real time by measuring sequential optical signals or electrochemical signals.