Temperature control module for PCR device and PCR device having same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PCR devices experience delays in raising or lowering the temperature of the sample unit, which prolongs the PCR process.
Innovation Solution
A temperature control module for PCR devices incorporating a motor, shaft assembly, Peltier element, and temperature-modifying chuck to quickly raise or lower the temperature of the sample unit by utilizing cooling or heating heat from the Peltier element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a temperature controller is used to control the temperature of the sample unit, then the temperature can be maintained at each step required for DNA synthesis, but there is a delay in raising or lowering the temperature of the sample unit, which prolongs the PCR process
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature control system is divided into two independent modules: a Peltier element module for rapid temperature changes and a heating module for maintaining temperature. This segmentation allows each module to specialize in its function, with the Peltier element handling quick transitions and the heating module ensuring stable temperature maintenance, thereby resolving the contradiction between speed and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The Peltier element is pre-positioned above the sample unit and can be rapidly lowered into contact with the PCR cartridge when temperature changes are needed. This preliminary positioning allows the system to immediately begin rapid cooling or heating without delay, improving the speed of temperature transitions while maintaining the reliability of temperature control through the dedicated heating module
2Manufacturing precision
If the temperature of the sample unit is controlled by a temperature controller, then each step for DNA synthesis can be achieved, but it takes a long time to complete the PCR process
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two temperature control modes: rapid temperature change mode using the Peltier element and stable temperature maintenance mode using the heating module. This dynamic operation allows the system to quickly transition between temperature steps (reducing time loss) while maintaining precise temperature control during each PCR step (preserving manufacturing precision)
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
Enables rapid temperature adjustments of the sample unit, enhancing the efficiency of the PCR process.
Implementation Method 1
a Peltier element disposed above the shaft assembly; and a temperature-modifying chuck configured to, in an initial mode, receive temperature-modifying heat from the Peltier element
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a temperature control module for a PCR device and a PCR device having same, the temperature control module being capable of more rapidly increasing or decreasing the temperature of a sample unit. The temperature control module for a PCR device comprises: a motor; a shaft assembly comprising a shaft connected to the rotary axis of the motor so as to move up and down in accordance with the rotation of the motor; a Peltier element placed on the upper portion of the shaft assembly; and a temperature-modifying chuck which, in an initial mode, receives temperature-modifying heat from the Peltier element and, in a temperature-control mode, moves upward on the shaft to supply temperature-modifying heat to a temperature-control surface of a PCR cartridge. Accordingly, the temperature of the sample unit can increase or decrease more rapidly by having the temperature-modifying chuck placed in the temperature control module for a PCR device, wherein the temperature-modifying chuck receives temperature-modifying heat from the Peltier element for heating or cooling in the initial mode and moves upward on the shaft to supply temperature-modifying heat to a temperature-control surface of a PCR cartridge in a temperature-control mode.