Peltier Semiconductor Structure for Portable Microfluidic PCR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional PCR apparatuses for infectious disease testing are expensive, large, and inconvenient for individuals, especially in sparsely populated areas, necessitating a more flexible and mobile approach for accurate testing.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor structure utilizing p-type and n-type semiconductor pillars to generate temperature gradients through the Peltier effect, integrated with a microfluidic system for cyclic temperature variations, enabling a portable PCR process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional PCR apparatuses are used, then accurate PCR tests can be performed, but the devices are expensive, large, and inconvenient for mobile use
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into three distinct temperature zones (denaturation zone at 95-98°C, annealing zone at 50-65°C, and extension zone at 70-75°C) along the microfluidic channel. Each zone contains specific thermoelectric elements dedicated to maintaining its target temperature, allowing the system to perform all PCR steps in a single continuous flow without requiring a complex programmable thermocycler
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions are merged into a single integrated device: the microfluidic channel serves as both the reaction vessel and temperature control medium, thermoelectric elements provide both heating and cooling, and the continuous flow system combines sample transport with thermal processing. This integration eliminates the need for separate equipment for each PCR function
2Measurement precision
If conventional PCR apparatuses are used, then accurate PCR tests can be performed, but the devices are not suitable for home or remote environments
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-service through continuous microfluidic flow that automatically transports the sample through all temperature zones without manual intervention. The system self-regulates temperatures in each zone through thermoelectric elements controlled by temperature sensors, eliminating the need for operator programming or monitoring of complex thermal cycles
Solution Approach 2:
The complex mechanical thermocycler system is replaced with a microfluidic flow-based system. Instead of mechanically moving a sample through temperature cycles, the liquid sample flows continuously through stationary temperature zones, replacing mechanical thermal cycling with fluid dynamics-based temperature exposure
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
Facilitates a small, portable, and cost-effective PCR system capable of performing rapid and accurate PCR tests, allowing analysis at home or remote locations.
Implementation Method 1
A semiconductor structure utilizing p-type and n-type semiconductor pillars to generate temperature gradients through the Peltier effect
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A semiconductor structure and a microfluidic system comprising the semiconductor structure are disclosed. The semiconductor structure comprises a thermoelement layer. The thermoelement layer comprises p- and n-type thermoelements. These thermoelements form regions wherein respective region is associated with a specific temperature range, where achieving the specific temperature range is based on an electron or hole current flowing through the thermoelements. The semiconductor structure forms part of the microfluidic system comprising a microfluidic channel having a meander extension across regions having different temperature ranges. This allows a fluid flowing in the microfluidic channel being exposable to cyclic temperature variations.