Thermocycler Sensor Array Plate for Replaceable Temperature Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature measurement systems for thermocyclers are not separable, requiring the entire tool to be replaced upon recalibration or defect, with calibration data stored in control electronics, leading to high manual mounting efforts and limited thermal homogeneity due to complex sensor-housing designs.
Innovation Solution
A separable device comprising a sensor array plate with temperature sensors on tongues and a pressure plate with fins for alignment, connected via a flexible cable to separate control electronics, allowing individual sensor calibration and optimal thermal contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If temperature sensors are integrated into control electronics with non-separable calibration data, then temperature measurement functionality is achieved, but the entire tool must be replaced upon recalibration or defect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the temperature measurement system into separable components: a sensor array plate with multiple temperature sensors that can be independently removed and replaced from the control electronics. This segmentation allows individual sensor replacement without replacing the entire tool, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the temperature sensors from the integrated control electronics by placing them on a separate sensor array plate that interfaces with the operating plate. This extraction enables independent handling, calibration, and replacement of sensors without affecting the control electronics, solving the replacement issue while maintaining measurement functionality.
2Measurement precision
If complex sensor-housing designs are used to ensure thermal contact, then temperature measurement accuracy is improved, but manual mounting effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sensor mounting system into a simple sensor array plate that sits directly on the operating plate, eliminating complex sensor-housing designs. Each sensor is positioned on individual tongues that make direct thermal contact with the operating plate, achieving precision without complex assembly structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of mounting sensors through complex housings from above, the patent inverts the approach by placing sensors directly on the sensor array plate that contacts the operating plate from below, simplifying the mounting structure while maintaining thermal contact effectiveness.
3Temperature
If multiple temperature sensors are placed in operating plates for temperature homogeneity control, then temperature distribution monitoring is improved, but calibration complexity increases due to varying thermal contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments each temperature sensor onto individual tongues on the sensor array plate, allowing each sensor to have consistent, standardized thermal contact with the operating plate. This segmentation reduces calibration complexity by standardizing the thermal interface while maintaining the ability to monitor temperature homogeneity across multiple points.
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 easy replacement of sensor arrays without recalibrating the entire system, reduces downtime, and ensures precise temperature measurement with minimal thermal mass and fast response, maintaining thermal homogeneity similar to normal operation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one temperature sensor arranged on at least one tongue that is surrounded by a cut-out leaving a bridge to the sensor array plate... The sensor array plate... for contacting at least one operating plate
Implementation Method 2
a pressure plate, comprising fins at the side for connection to the sensor array plate that align with the spacer of the sensor array plate when a pressure plate is arranged onto a sensor array plate
Implementation Method 3
PCR thermal cyclers... may be achieved by electrical heating and fluidic based cooling or the use of Peltier elements
Implementation Method 4
PCR thermal cyclers... may be achieved by electrical heating and fluidic based cooling
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system comprising a device or the device itself for measuring temperatures, comprising a sensor array plate, comprising on a first surface at least one temperature sensor arranged on at least one tongue that is surrounded by a cut-out leaving a bridge to the sensor array plate, wherein the at least one sensor has on both sides' spacer and a second surface opposite the first surface for connection to at least one operating plate of a member of an automated analyser system; and a pressure plate, comprising fins at the side for connection to the sensor array plate that align with the spacer of the sensor array plate when a pressure plate is arranged onto a sensor array plate.