Thermal Module Lifting Mechanism for Nucleic Acid Detection Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nucleic acid amplification apparatuses face challenges in maintaining uniform temperature control across samples, leading to inefficient amplification reactions due to temperature differences between the central and outer edge portions of thermal blocks, and alignment issues with optical modules result in inconsistent detection results.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a lifting device with a height adjusting mechanism and compliant bumpers to vertically move the thermal module, allowing for precise alignment and uniform temperature control, while a horizontal moving structure minimizes optical module movement and ensures consistent detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the thermal block is used for nucleic acid amplification reaction, then the amplification reaction can be performed, but temperature differences occur between the central and outer edge portions leading to non-uniform temperature control
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal block is divided into multiple independent heating zones (central zone and outer edge zones) that can be controlled separately. This segmentation allows different temperature control strategies to be applied to different regions, enabling uniform temperature distribution across the entire thermal block despite the inherent heat conduction differences between central and outer areas.
Solution Approach 2:
Different heating control parameters are applied to different regions of the thermal block. The central portion receives different heating power or duration compared to the outer edge portions, compensating for the heat conduction differences. This local quality adjustment ensures that all regions achieve and maintain the target temperature uniformly.
2Measurement precision
If the optical module is positioned over the sample plate for detection, then detection can be performed, but alignment issues occur leading to inconsistent detection results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment with an automated optical alignment system. The system uses optical sensors and feedback mechanisms to automatically detect and correct misalignment between the optical module and sample plate, eliminating the inconsistency caused by manual positioning and ensuring reliable, repeatable alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical module incorporates self-alignment capabilities through integrated sensors and adjustment mechanisms. The system automatically detects its own position relative to the sample plate and makes real-time corrections without external intervention, ensuring consistent detection results while improving reliability.
3Reliability
If the heated lid is clamped down on the sample plate to prevent evaporation, then evaporation is prevented, but alignment between the heated lid and optical module becomes critical
Solution Approach 1:
The heated lid is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as an evaporation prevention cover and as an integrated alignment reference structure. The lid incorporates alignment markers or optical references that simultaneously facilitate both the sealing function (evaporation prevention) and the alignment function (optical module positioning), reducing the criticality of separate alignment procedures.
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 enhances the reliability and consistency of nucleic acid amplification reactions by reducing temperature differences and protecting the optical module from impact, leading to improved product life and efficient nucleic acid amplification performance.
Implementation Method 1
a lifting device for vertically moving the thermal module
Implementation Method 2
The thermal module for heating and cooling the reaction vessel
Implementation Method 3
The thermal module for heating and cooling the reaction vessel
Implementation Method 4
a light detection module that irradiates light to a reaction vessel and detects signals
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for detecting a target analyte according to the present disclosure includes: a light detection module that irradiates light to a reaction vessel and detects signals; a thermal module for heating and cooling the reaction vessel; and a lifting device for vertically moving the thermal module.