PCR Tempering Block Pressure Distribution Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory apparatuses for tempering samples, such as those used in PCR reactions, face challenges in achieving uniform temperature distribution due to spatial inhomogeneities and non-uniform pressure application, which can lead to inconsistent results and material fatigue.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a pressure device with a pressure element and an auxiliary element that presses the tempering device against the tempering block, allowing the tempering device to partially surround the pressure element, ensuring even pressure distribution and improved thermal contact, thereby enhancing temperature uniformity across the block.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If fasteners are positioned aside from the tempering block to apply pressure, then the tempering device can be pressed against the tempering block, but the torque causes non-uniform pressure distribution and material fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
A pressure distribution element (auxiliary element) is introduced as an intermediary between the fastener and the tempering device. This mediator distributes the force uniformly across the tempering device's contact surface, eliminating the torque-induced non-uniformity while maintaining reliable pressure application.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure distribution element creates locally optimized contact conditions by ensuring uniform force distribution at each point of contact between the tempering device and the tempering block, rather than relying on a single fastener position.
2Temperature
If the tempering device is pressed against the tempering block with high force, then thermal contact is improved, but material fatigue increases and lifespan decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure distribution element changes the pressure parameter from concentrated high-force contact to distributed moderate-force contact, achieving sufficient thermal contact while reducing peak stresses that cause material fatigue.
3Ease of manufacture
If fasteners are positioned at a distance from the tempering block, then assembly is simplified, but torque is generated that degrades pressure uniformity over time
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure distribution element serves as a mediator that decouples the fastener position from the contact uniformity requirement, allowing simplified assembly with offset fasteners while maintaining precise pressure distribution through the auxiliary element.
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 achieves more precise and reproducible temperature control, reducing the effects of spatial inhomogeneities and extending the apparatus's lifespan by minimizing material fatigue, leading to improved PCR reaction consistency and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The pressure element is linked to the auxiliary element and to the tempering block, and is arranged to press the at least one tempering device against the tempering block by pressing the auxiliary element against the at least one tempering device
Implementation Method 2
a tempering device, arranged in an area of said contact side... at least one tempering device is shaped and arranged to at least partially surround by itself said pressure element
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a laboratory apparatus, in particular for performing a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in a plurality of PCR-samples, which comprises an arrangement for tempering samples, the arrangement comprising a tempering block for the tempering of samples, the tempering block comprising a reception side, which provides receptacles for receiving sample vessels, and a contact side for the contact of at least one tempering device, at least one tempering device, arranged in an area of said contact side, a pressure device, which comprises a pressure element and an auxiliary element, said at least one tempering device being arranged between said auxiliary element and the tempering block, the pressure element being linked to said auxiliary element and to the tempering block, and being arranged to press said at least one tempering device against the tempering block by pressing said auxiliary element against said at least one tempering device, wherein at least one tempering device is shaped and arranged in said area to at least partially surround by itself said pressure element.