Random-Access Planar PCR Chip Transport for Batchless Molecular Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing molecular testing systems are expensive, bulky, and lack flexibility, with long turnaround times and inefficient use of resources due to batch processing, especially for small sample sizes, and require synchronized protocols, limiting their ability to perform random access PCR tests in a cost-effective manner.
Innovation Solution
A planar PCR chip with a heating block, clip, and detection platform, coupled with an automated transport mechanism, allows for batchless and random access amplification and detection of biological samples in small volumes, enabling independent protocol execution on each module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If batch processing is used to achieve high throughput, then productivity is improved, but loss of time increases due to queue waiting and synchronized protocol requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the batch processing into independent modular units (e.g., separate heating blocks, detection modules) that can operate autonomously. Each module processes samples independently without requiring synchronization with other modules, eliminating queue waiting time while maintaining high throughput capability through parallel operation of multiple modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic random access processing where sample queues are processed as they arrive rather than waiting for batch completion. The modular architecture allows the system to dynamically allocate resources and adjust processing capacity based on real-time sample flow, enabling fast turnaround for urgent samples while maintaining overall high throughput.
2Loss of time
If smaller batch sizes are used to reduce waiting time, then loss of time is reduced, but productivity decreases due to underutilization of system capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous operation by having multiple independent modules working in parallel. While one module is processing a small batch, another module can simultaneously process a different batch, ensuring that system capacity is continuously utilized without idle time. This eliminates the underutilization problem of small batches while maintaining fast turnaround times.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts batch sizes and processing allocation based on real-time demand. When sample volume is low, the system processes smaller batches quickly; when sample volume is high, multiple modules operate in parallel to maintain high throughput. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between small batch speed and system capacity utilization.
3Device complexity
If integrated sample-prep-assay cartridges are used to simplify the system, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase due to combining multiple materials and functions in one cartridge
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of integrating all functions into a single complex cartridge, the system segments sample preparation and assay functions into separate modules. The sample prep module and assay module are independent, allowing each to be manufactured and validated separately with standard precision requirements, while the overall system remains simplified through modular integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses universal standardized interfaces and protocols that allow different sample prep and assay modules to be interchangeable. This universality simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining manufacturing simplicity, as each module can be produced independently using standard manufacturing processes without requiring high-precision integration of multiple materials in a single cartridge.
4Temperature
If Peltier thermoelectric devices are used for temperature control, then temperature control precision is improved, but use of energy increases due to active heating and cooling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines heating and cooling functions into a single Peltier device that can operate in both heating and cooling modes. This merging eliminates the need for separate heating and cooling systems, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining precise temperature control. The device switches between heating and cooling as needed during the PCR cycle, optimizing energy efficiency.
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 low-cost, high-throughput molecular testing with fast turnaround times and flexibility in assay protocols, supporting a wide variety of assays in a compact footprint without loss of sensitivity, even in small reaction volumes.
Implementation Method 1
a heating block operatively coupled to a controller for controlling the heating block to cycle through a plurality of temperatures
Implementation Method 2
said clip comprises a passive spring
Implementation Method 3
a detection platform adjacent to the viewing window and operatively coupled to the controller for identifying a characteristic of interest of the aliquot of fluid
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3D
AI summary
A random access automated molecular testing system and method is used with a planar polymerase chain reaction (PCR) chip to provide molecular detection covering a wide variety of assays/tests in a small footprint. An automated transport mechanism moves the PCR chip between a pipette loading station, a sealing station and an amplification and detection module to provide batchless and random-access amplification and detection of a biological sample fluid. The PCR chip a planar rectangular body, a U-shaped channel for receiving sample fluid from an inlet port and a gripping feature laterally extending from an upper surface of the body above the inlet port for use by the automated transport mechanism. An amplification and detection module includes a heating block, a clip with a viewing window for retaining the PCR chip and a detection platform for identifying a content characteristic of interest of the sample fluid.