Sample processing module and apparatus for calibrating a multi-channel liquid handling device

Abstract

A sample processing module and apparatus for calibrating a multi-channel liquid handling device are disclosed. The sample processing module operates in conjunction with a weighing balance and includes a holding device having holders arranged in succession and equidistant from one another and configured to receive containers. The sample processing module further includes a support device including an array of tines that provide lateral support to the holders when the holders are unloaded from the load receiver, and an actuating device operatively connected to the holders by the array of tines. The actuating device is operable to mount the holders onto the load receiver one at a time by disengaging the respective tine supporting the holder. A system and method of operating the actuating device are also disclosed. The sample processing module of the invention is modular and compact, enabling easy manufacturing, operation, repair and service.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the calibration of multichannel liquid handling devices, such as pipettes, and more specifically, to a sample handling module for weight calibration of multichannel liquid handling devices in conjunction with a weighing device. Background Technology

[0002] A pipette is a liquid handling instrument used in a laboratory to transfer predetermined volumes of test liquids. Several analytical procedures in a laboratory setting involve dispensing liquids using a pipette. Multichannel pipettes are efficient laboratory tools because they allow liquid to be aspirated from one or more containers simultaneously and immediately dispensed into several target containers. When using a multichannel pipette, the volume of liquid aspirated and dispensed in all channels should be identical. Pipettes used in analytical procedures, especially multichannel pipettes, must deliver an accurate volume of liquid in each individual pipetting cycle. This requirement necessitates the periodic testing of multichannel pipettes to ensure their performance is fully within the tolerances specified for a given application. This periodic testing and validation of pipette performance is called calibration.

[0003] Calibration procedures used to verify pipette performance typically vary depending on the use case or application requirements. Multichannel pipettes used for training students in chemistry labs only require basic calibration meeting broad specifications. However, regulated laboratories undergoing periodic audits under Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) are required to perform statistical analysis of test data supporting the pipette's pass / fail status. Such regulated laboratories strictly adhere to the procedures specified in ISO 8655 Part 6, using the gravimetric method to determine the measurement error of the pipette device.

[0004] Regular pipette calibration ensures higher reproducibility of results in standard analytical procedures. However, determining the calibration interval depends heavily on the frequency and intensity of pipette use, the aging of the pipette, the operator's skill and training level, the type of liquid dispensed, and the accuracy required for a given laboratory procedure. Gravimetric analysis is a widely used pipette calibration method due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Gravimetric analysis utilizes the known density of water under standard conditions of temperature, pressure, and humidity. The weight of the dispensed sample, measured by a weighing balance, represents the volume dispensed by the pipette. Based on the results obtained from gravimetric analysis, the pipette is adjusted using tools provided by the manufacturer. Gravimetric analysis and calibration of the pipette are repeated until the calculated measurement error is entirely within the required tolerance.

[0005] A well-calibrated multichannel pipette is an indispensable instrument for high-throughput, high-precision laboratory applications. Calibrating a multichannel pipette requires individually verifying the accuracy of each channel. However, a major challenge in calibrating multichannel pipettes is the need to perform a large number of pipetting cycles and corresponding weighing events. For example, calibrating a 12-channel pipette for UKAS certification requires 360 weighing events (3 volumes × 10 replicates × 12 channels). To calibrate multichannel pipettes more quickly without compromising accuracy, robust and durable equipment is essential.

[0006] Patent document US6804985 B2 describes an apparatus for weight calibration of multichannel pipettes. This apparatus includes a transport device that advances containers to the load receiver of a weighing device. This prior art solution addresses the problem of using a dedicated weighing sensor for each container during the weight calibration of a multichannel pipette. The prior art solution primarily focuses on using a single weighing sensor and equipping the apparatus with a transport device to deliver containers one after another to the load receiver. As one container is removed from the load receiver, the next container is transported to the measuring device, thus avoiding the use of multiple weighing sensors to calibrate a single multichannel pipette. The transport device in the prior art solution is designed to perform combined motion, where a holding device carrying the container moves horizontally forward or backward while being simultaneously raised and lowered. The transport device includes multiple components, such as brackets, channels, frames, drive wheels with bolts or rollers, etc., which move relative to other components. When subjected to combined motion during apparatus operation, the holding device vibrates, which adversely affects the performance of the weighing sensor. A key design aspect of prior art apparatuses is their travel characteristics. Existing equipment occupies a large space during installation and operation, particularly due to its travel characteristics, thus taking up valuable laboratory space. In view of the aforementioned problems associated with existing calibration devices, the applicant has designed a new technical solution to efficiently perform multichannel pipette calibration. The proposed technical solution does not involve combined movement of the holder, i.e., it does not utilize travel characteristics. The technical solution of this invention benefits users through its compactness, modular implementation, and smooth functionality. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of this invention is to provide a sample processing module for calibrating a multichannel liquid handling apparatus, cooperating with a load receiver of a weighing device. Therefore, the sample processing module includes: a holding device having retainers arranged sequentially and equidistantly spaced from each other, configured to receive containers. The sample processing module has: a support device including a fork array that provides lateral support to the retainer when the retainer is removed from the load receiver; and an actuation device operatively connected to the retainer via the fork array, wherein the actuation device can be operated to position the retainer onto the load receiver one at a time by disengaging the corresponding fork supporting the retainer. The sample processing module of this invention is modular and compact, thereby enabling easy manufacture, operation, repair, and servicing. The actuation device, together with the support device, enables smooth and seamless placement and removal of the retainer from the load receiver of the weighing balance. The sample processing module operates in a fixed position without any forward or backward movement, thereby eliminating undesirable vibrations that could potentially affect the performance of the weighing device.

[0008] Preferably, each tooth in the fork array is configured as a flexible finger, comprising a fixed end, a free end, and a contact portion between the fixed end and the free end. Each fork array is formed from a single metal plate, thus making it a monolithic component. The fixed ends of all teeth in the fork array remain integral. In addition to resisting any other forces that would twist the arrangement and configuration of the teeth within the array, the fixed ends absorb torques generated within the teeth. The free end carries the retainer and also facilitates the connection between the support and the retainer when a given retainer is removed from the load receiver. The contact portion remains in face-to-face contact with the actuation device, causing deflection of the teeth, which in turn leads to the placement and removal of the retainer on the load receiver.

[0009] Preferably, the free end of each fork extends upward and includes a notch for laterally engaging the retainer when the retainer is removed from the load receiver. The upward extension of the free end maintains the gap between the retainer and the load receiver as the retainer is removed from the load receiver.

[0010] In the sample processing module, preferably, the actuation device further includes a pair of shafts operating in tandem, each shaft comprising multiple eccentric profiles arranged along a discontinuous helical pitch. Each shaft supports all the fork teeth via their respective contacts. The eccentric profiles on the shafts act as actuators causing the fork teeth to deflect, particularly when the contacts of the fork teeth interact face-to-face with the eccentric profiles. Arranging the eccentric profiles along a discontinuous helical pitch allows for the continuous placement and removal of the retainer, thus bringing order and predictability to the stacking process. One of the shafts also includes a light barrier in the form of annular shoulders arranged along the outer periphery of the shaft. The light barrier helps determine the operating state or function of the actuation device.

[0011] In an advantageous embodiment, the eccentric profile is configured to be recessed. The recessed eccentric profile causes the fork teeth to initially deflect downwards, resulting in the holder being positioned onto the load receiver. The same eccentric profile then causes the fork teeth to deflect upwards, thereby removing the holder from the load receiver.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment, the shafts are arranged parallel to each other and positioned below the fork tooth array, such that the shafts always maintain face-to-face contact with the contact portions of the teeth. The retainer is laterally supported on both sides by a row of fork teeth. Therefore, each shaft is dedicated to interacting with the corresponding fork tooth array arranged on each side of the retainer.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the actuation device includes a prime mover, such as an electric motor for providing power to drive the shaft. Using a prime mover allows for better control of the shaft's rotational direction and speed, thereby making the sample processing module versatile and adaptable to various use cases.

[0014] In an advantageous embodiment, the actuation device further includes a drive element to tandemly operate the paired shafts when power is applied by a prime mover. The tandem operation of the shafts assists in the synchronized operation of the fork pairs on both sides of the retainer when the contact portion interacts with the eccentric profile. The tandem operation of the shafts ensures uniform and smooth placement and removal of the retainer from the load receiver.

[0015] Preferably, the retaining device further includes a pair of pins that are laterally attached to the retainer and extend outward. Specifically, when the retainer to which the pin is attached is placed onto the load receiver, the pin interacts with the load receiver. When the corresponding retainer to which the pin is attached is removed from the load receiver, the pin interacts with the notches of the corresponding forks.

[0016] In this advantageous arrangement, the holding device, support device, and actuation device are enclosed within a housing. Besides providing an efficient packaging solution for all components of the sample processing module, the housing also serves as a wind shield and protective structure. The housing also includes a base plate attached to the platform of the weighing device. This base plate serves a dual purpose: it acts as a load-bearing surface for all the remaining components of the sample processing module; and it also helps to accurately align the sample processing module when it is placed on the surface of the weighing platform.

[0017] Advantageously, the housing also includes: longitudinal partitions arranged parallel to each other and positioned on each side of the retaining device to separate the retaining device from the actuating device; a mounting plate arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal partitions for mounting the actuating device; and a top cover having an opening protected by a baffle, the top cover also including an evaporation well. The longitudinal partitions separate the retainer from the rotation shaft. The longitudinal partitions and the mounting plate together form an enclosed space in which the load receiver of the weighing device is housed to interact with the retainer. The load receiver is configured as a vertically extending airfoil frame within the aforementioned enclosed space. The longitudinal partitions, the mounting plate, and the top cover together protect the test liquid contained in the container from adverse effects.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the housing includes a lower portion adjacent to the substrate; a middle portion directly above the lower portion; and an upper portion directly above the middle portion and adjacent to the top cover. Sensitive electronic equipment for powering and controlling the sample processing module is located in the lower portion, which has minimal exposure to elemental effects. An actuation device is located in the middle portion to continuously interact with the support device. The actuation device has higher space requirements to accommodate its components, such as a prime mover, shaft, drive element, etc. A holding device and support device are located in the upper portion, where they interact with the load receiver.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, an apparatus for calibrating a multichannel liquid processing device is disclosed. The apparatus includes a sample processing module and a weighing device that operates in conjunction with the sample processing module.

[0020] In another advantageous embodiment, a system for operating the actuation device of the present invention is disclosed. The system includes: an actuation device configured to operate according to a predetermined operating cycle, wherein the predetermined operating cycle includes an operating condition and a termination condition; a communication interface configured to facilitate signal exchange between various components within the system; a sensing element configured to: sense the predetermined operating cycle of the actuation device, detect whether the operating cycle has reached a termination condition, and provide an output signal when the termination condition is detected; a processing element configured to process the output signal representing the termination condition and publish the processed signal; and an encoding element configured to generate pulses representing the arrangement of the actuation device and to reset when the predetermined operating cycle of the actuation device reaches the termination condition. The actuation device iterates the predetermined operating cycle until the system stops operating. The above system provides the necessary framework for controlling the actuation device according to the predetermined operating cycle.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, a method for operating an actuation device is disclosed. The method includes: operating the actuation device according to a predetermined operating cycle, wherein the predetermined operating cycle includes an operating condition and a termination condition; generating pulses representing the arrangement of the actuation device using the encoding element; sensing the predetermined operating cycle of the actuation device using the sensing element; exchanging signals between components within the system using the communication interface; checking whether the operating cycle has reached a termination condition detected by the sensing element; providing the output signal from the sensing element to the processing element when the termination condition is detected; processing the output signal from the sensing element using the processing element and issuing the processed signal; receiving the processed signal from the processing element and resetting the predetermined operating cycle of the actuation device to the operating condition; and resetting the encoding element; iterating the predetermined operating cycle of the actuation device until the system stops operating. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 The equipment used for calibrating a multichannel liquid handling unit is shown in perspective.

[0023] Figure 2 Only the weighing device with a load receiver is shown, which is Figure 1 Part of the apparatus shown;

[0024] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Another illustration of the apparatus after the top cover of the sample processing module has been removed.

[0025] Figure 4This is the sample processing module after removing the outer cover, used to show the support device and actuation device;

[0026] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the sample processing module is shown, illustrating the various devices arranged within the housing;

[0027] Figure 6A A perspective view of the device's holding mechanism, support mechanism, and load receiver is shown;

[0028] Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A The enlarged view shown illustrates the interaction between the retainer and the load receiver of the weighing device;

[0029] Figure 7 An enlarged view of the support device with a fork-tooth row is shown;

[0030] Figure 8 A perspective view of an actuator with an eccentric profile and a light barrier is shown.

[0031] Figure 9 This is an illustration of the steps in a method for operating an actuation device of a device. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Figure 1 An apparatus 1 for calibrating a multichannel liquid handling device, such as a pipette, is shown. Generally, the apparatus includes a liquid handling module 10 and a weighing device 11. The liquid handling module 10 is provided with an outer cover 74 and a top cover 76, both of which enclose other working components. The top cover 76 is provided with an opening 78, the inlet of which is controlled by a baffle 80. Figure 1 As shown, the baffle 80 is configured to slide back and forth, thereby blocking access to the opening 78 in one position and providing access to the opening 78 in another position. An operator can use the container 26 through the opening 78. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image). Below the top cover 76 is a device for arranging and holding an evaporation well (not shown) filled with water, the evaporation well being used to receive water from container 26 (…). Figure 1 Evaporation loss (not shown). A numerical index representing the number of containers that can be contained in the liquid handling module 10 is provided on the top cover 76. Figure 1 (The numbers 1 to 12 on the middle 76).

[0033] Figure 2The weighing device 11 of this embodiment is shown separately. The weighing device 11 of the present invention includes a platform 12 provided with at least one pin 14 for precise placement and interlocking of the liquid handling module 10. The weighing device 11 is a laboratory balance, and its load receiver 16 is specifically configured to functionally cooperate with the liquid handling module 10. The load receiver 16 is operatively coupled to a load cell (not shown) of the weighing device 11 via a force transmission link 18.

[0034] Figure 3 This shows the process after removing the top cover 76 of the sample processing module 10. Figure 1 Another illustration of device 1 is shown. The sample processing module 10 includes a holding device 20 and a support device 30. Besides assisting the interaction between the sample processing module 10 and the weighing balance 11, the purpose of the holding device 20 is to receive containers 26 from the outside and securely hold them in place within the sample processing module 10. When not interacting with the weighing balance 11, the holding device 20 interacts with the support device 30. The components of the support device 30 will be described in the next paragraph by reference. Figure 4 An explanation will be provided in the following paragraphs, in reference. Figures 6A-6B The interaction between the retaining device 20 and the supporting device 30 will be further described in detail.

[0035] Figure 4 A separate sample handling module 10 is shown after the outer cover 74, top cover 76, and retaining device 20 have been removed from the modular assembly, illustrating certain aspects of the support device 30 and the actuation device 44. The support device 30 includes a fork array 32 configured to provide lateral support to the retaining device 20. Each fork 34 in the fork array 32 is configured as a finger having a non-movable fixed end 36, a free end 38, and a contact portion 42. The support device 30 is designed to be actuated by the actuation device 44 (…). Figure 4 (Not shown in the diagram) Operation. The drive wheel 54, driven wheels 55, 55, and annular belt 56 together constitute the drive element 52 of the actuation device 44. The holding device 20, support device 30, and actuation device 44 are enclosed in a housing 58. The housing 58 includes a base plate 60 that can be attached to the platform 12 of the weighing device 11. The housing 58 is designed to also include longitudinal partitions 70, mounting plates 72, and a top cover 76. The longitudinal partitions 70 are arranged parallel to each other and adjacent to each side of the holding device 20 to separate the holding device 20 from the actuation device 44. The mounting plate 72 is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal partitions 70 for mounting the actuation device 44. The longitudinal partitions 70, mounting plates 72, and top cover 76 together protect the test liquid contained in the container 26 from adverse effects.

[0036] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of various devices arranged within the sample processing module 10. The housing 58 is designed to have a lower portion 64 closest to the substrate 60, a middle portion 66 directly above the lower portion 64, and an upper portion 68 directly above the middle portion 66 and closest to the top cover 76. Sensitive electronic devices 84 for powering and controlling the sample processing module 10 are located in the lower portion 64. An actuation device 44, specifically a prime mover 50 in the form of an electric motor, is located in the middle portion 66. A holding device 20 and a support device 30 are located in the upper portion 68. The actuation device 44 also includes a pair of shafts 46, 46 configured to operate in tandem. Each shaft 46 includes a plurality of eccentric profiles 48. The eccentric profiles 48 are disposed on the surface of the shaft 46 along a discontinuous helical pitch. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the eccentric profiles 48 are configured to be recessed. Shafts 46, 46 are arranged parallel to each other and located below the fork tooth array 32, such that shafts 46, 46 always maintain face-to-face contact with the contact portion 42 of the fork teeth 34. By supporting shafts 46, 46 on the mounting plate 72, shafts 46, 46 are arranged to rotate freely about their axes. Those skilled in the art will recognize the need to provide additional elements, such as bearings, at appropriate locations on shafts 46, 46 to enable rotation and achieve smoother rotation. Driven wheels 55, 55 are connected to one end of each shaft 46, 46. Drive wheel 54 is directly connected to the prime mover 50. An annular belt 56 connects drive wheel 54 and driven wheels 55, 55, thereby facilitating the simultaneous transmission of power to shafts 46, 46, enabling them to rotate tandemly about their axes.

[0037] Figure 6A A perspective view of the holding device 20, the support device 30, and the load receiver 16 of the device 1 is shown. Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A An enlarged view of a portion shown illustrates the interaction between the retainer 22 and the load receiver 16 of the weighing device 11. For simplicity and to keep the figures less cluttered, only a single retainer 22 is shown in the current figure. The representative embodiment of the invention described herein is suitable for use with a liquid handling apparatus comprising 12 channels. Therefore, the number of containers 26 in each fork array 32, the number of retainers 22, the number of fork teeth 34, and finally the number of eccentric profiles 48 on each axis 46 correspond to the number of channels in the liquid handling apparatus to be calibrated. The retainer 20 also includes a pair of pins 24, 24 laterally attached to the retainer 22 and extending outward from the retainer.

[0038] Figure 7An enlarged view of the support device with an array of forks is shown. The free end 36 of each fork 34 in the support device 30 extends upward and includes a notch 40. When the retainer 22 is not mounted on the load receiver 16, the pin 24 extending outward from the retainer 22 is perfectly accommodated in the notch 40.

[0039] Figure 8 A perspective view of the actuation device 44 is shown, specifically a perspective view of the shaft 46. As shown, the shaft 46 includes an eccentric profile 48 arranged along a discontinuous helical pitch. The eccentric profile 48 is configured to be recessed and arranged in the housing 58 to interact with the contact portion 42 of the corresponding fork tooth 34. At least one of the shafts 46 includes a light barrier 49 in the form of an annular shoulder arranged along the outer periphery of the shaft 46. The light barrier 49 helps determine the function of the actuation element 44.

[0040] Another aspect of the invention is a system for operating the actuation device 44 of the sample processing module 10. For example... Figure 5 and Figure 8As further shown, the system includes an actuation device 44, a communication interface 86, a sensing element 88, a processing element 90, and an encoding element 92. The actuation device 44, particularly its shaft 46, is configured to operate according to a predetermined operating cycle. The predetermined operating cycle includes operating conditions and termination conditions. Each operating cycle generates a series of weighing events, the count of which matches the number of eccentric profiles 48 of each shaft 46. Near full rotation of the shaft 46 of the actuation device 44 constitutes the predetermined operating cycle. The operating conditions and termination conditions simply represent the operating state of the actuation device 44. In this embodiment, the result of completing the predetermined operating cycle is the sequential determination of the weight of the test liquid in all containers 26 one after another. The sensing element 88 in this embodiment is a light-blocking sensor, configured to generate a signal when a light barrier 49 on the shaft 46 allows light to propagate from the generating side to the receiving side of the sensing element 88. An opening O provided in the light barrier 49 breaks the light transmission barrier, causing the predetermined operating cycle to reach a termination state. Once the position of the opening O on the light barrier 49 is synchronized with the sensing element 88, the prime mover 50 is immediately de-energized, thereby stopping the rotation of shafts 46, 46. The encoding element 92 is a rotary encoder attached to the prime mover 50, and its task is to generate pulses representing the arrangement of the actuator 44, specifically the angular displacement (θ) of shaft 46. The pulses from the encoding element 92 are processed by the processing element 90 to determine the exact holder 22, thereby identifying the container 26 positioned on the load receiver 16. Given that the weight of the test liquid in container 26 is measured by the weighing device 11, the container 26 carrying the test liquid is identified based on the pulses emitted from the encoding element 92. In this way, the processing element 90 matches the weight of the test liquid generated by the weighing device 11 with the container 26 carrying the test liquid. Each eccentric profile 48 on the surface of shaft 46 is responsible for a unique weighing event within a predetermined operating cycle. The determination of the weight of the test liquid in container 26 by mounting the holder 22 carrying container 26 onto the load receiver 16 and subsequently removing it constitutes a single weighing event. In this example, the system is envisioned to generate twelve weighing events within a predetermined operating cycle of the actuation device 44. The communication interface 86 is a wired or wireless network that creates a closed-loop signal exchange mechanism between the various components of the system.

[0041] Consistent with the system for operating the actuator 44, a relevant aspect of the invention is a method for operating the actuator 44, including... Figure 9The steps S101-S109 are shown. The method includes step S101, in which the actuator 44 is operated according to a predetermined operating cycle including operating conditions and termination conditions. As previously described, the operating conditions and termination conditions simply represent the operating state of the actuator 44. In step S102, a pulse representing the arrangement of the actuator 44 is generated using the encoding element 92. The encoding element 92, coupled to the prime mover 50, generates a feedback signal in the form of a pulse. In step S103, the condition of the predetermined operating cycle of the actuator 44 is continuously sensed using the sensing element 88. In this embodiment, the sensing element 88 is a light-blocking sensor, which is disposed within the housing 58 to generate a signal when light is allowed to propagate from the generating side to the receiving side of the sensing element 88 via a light barrier 49 on the shaft 46. In step S104, the signal representing the condition of the predetermined operating cycle and the pulses from the encoding element 92 are exchanged with the processing element 90 using the communication interface 86. In step S105, a check is performed by the sensing element 88 to determine whether the predetermined operating cycle has reached the termination condition. When the opening O on the light barrier 49 breaks the barrier used for light transmission, causing the predetermined operating cycle to reach its termination condition, the predetermined operating cycle reaches its termination condition. The method proceeds to step S106, whereby the sensing element 88 outputs a signal to the processing element 90 when the predetermined operating cycle reaches its termination condition. In step S107, the output signal from the sensing element 88 is processed, and the processing element 90 issues a processed signal. Once the position of the opening O on the light barrier 49 is synchronized with the sensing element 88, the prime mover 50 is de-energized, thereby immediately stopping the rotation of shafts 46, 46. In step S108, the processed signal from the processing element 90 resets the predetermined operating cycle of the actuator 44 to the operating state; and simultaneously initiates the reset of the encoding element 92. Step S109 is an iterative step, in which the actuator 44 iterates the predetermined operating cycle until the system stops operating.

[0042] The following will refer to the specific details again. Figure 1-9 The operation of device 1 is explained. First, device 1 is set up by attaching the sample processing module 10 to the weighing device 11. Setup is successful when the base plate 60 of module 10 is perfectly interlocked with the pins 14 on platform 12, and the load receiver 16 of weighing device 11 is fully accommodated in the space formed by the longitudinal partition 70 and the mounting plate 72. As a specific example, such as... Figure 1The configuration of device 1 shown indicates successful setup. The top cover 76 is removed and the evaporation well is filled with water to maintain the required relative humidity within device 1. Holders 22 carrying containers 26 are arranged sequentially within the range of the load receiver 16. Each holder 22 is laterally supported by a corresponding pair of forks 34, securely receiving a pin 24 into a notch 40. In this example, the holding device 20 has twelve holders 22, each carrying one container 26. The top cover 76 is returned to its designated position, and its baffle 80 is manually opened to selectively allow access to the containers 26. The multichannel liquid handling device designated for calibration is first used to aspirate the test liquid (water). The multichannel liquid handling device is brought close to the currently open baffle 80, and then the test liquid (water) is rapidly dispensed into the exposed containers 26 before the baffle 80 is closed. Each container 26 corresponds to one channel of the multichannel liquid handling device. The actuation device 44 operates using the previously described system and method. The support device 30 acts as an intermediary between the holding device 20 and the actuation device 44. When the predetermined operating cycle of the actuator 44 is in operation, the shafts 46, 46 rotate in series. The contact portions 42, 42 of a given pair of fork teeth 34, 34 closely outline the surface profiles of the shafts 46, 46. As the contact portions 42, 42 interact with the eccentric profiles 48, 48 on the shafts 46, 46, the free ends 38, 38 of the fork teeth 34, 34 tend to move downwards during the first half of their movement along the recesses of the eccentric profiles 48, 48, thereby mounting the designated retainer 22 of the carrying container 26 onto the load receiver 16. Once the retainer 22 is mounted onto the load receiver 16, the load cell generates a signal indicating the weight of the test liquid in the given container 26, thereby recording the first weighing event. The container 26 currently being weighed is identified using a signal generated by the encoder 92 attached to the prime mover 50. As shafts 46, 46 continue to rotate, the free ends 38, 38 of the fork teeth 34, 34 reverse their orientation and tend upwards during the latter half of their movement along the remaining portion of the eccentric profiles 48, 48, thereby removing the given retainer 22 of the carrying container 26 from the load receiver 16. The eccentric profile 48 on shaft 46 follows a discontinuous helical pitch, such as... Figure 8As shown, this allows for overlap between the continuous eccentric profiles 48. The actuator 44 continues its operation after a predetermined operating cycle and generates a series of weighing events corresponding to the weight of the test liquid in each container 26. Once the opening O on the grating 49 is synchronized with the sensing element 88, the prime mover 50 is de-energized, immediately stopping the rotation of shafts 46, 46. Each weighing event generates two data points: container 26, the channel number of the multi-channel liquid handling device from which the test liquid (water) is dispensed; and the corresponding weight of the test liquid (water) in container 26. These data points, existing in key-value pairs, are transmitted in real-time to the data acquisition program. The calibration software uses the acquired data to determine channel-level systematic and random errors. This process is repeated by gradually increasing the volume of test liquid (water) dispensed into containers 26 (e.g., 20 μl, 100 μl, 200 μl).

[0043] Although the invention has been described through a specific embodiment of the sample processing module, it is self-evident that the teachings of the invention encompass many additional variations. Predictable modifications are contemplated using the teachings of the invention without altering the fundamental function. One such modification is changing the basic construction and structural features of the holding and supporting devices. Another possible modification is configuring the sensing element to generate a signal upon detecting an obstacle. Such variations of the concept described and claimed herein are considered to fall without exception within the scope of protection sought herein.

[0044] List of reference numerals

[0045] Equipment 1

[0046] Sample processing module 10

[0047] Weighing device 11

[0048] Platform 12

[0049] 14 studs

[0050] Load receiver 16

[0051] Force transmission link 18

[0052] Holding device 20

[0053] Holder 22

[0054] Sales 24

[0055] Container 26

[0056] Support device 30

[0057] 32-tooth array

[0058] 34 fork teeth

[0059] Fixed end 36

[0060] Free end 38

[0061] Notch 40

[0062] Contact part 42

[0063] Actuator 44

[0064] Shaft 46

[0065] Off-center profile 48

[0066] Light barrier 49

[0067] prime mover 50

[0068] Drive element 52

[0069] Drive wheel 54

[0070] Driven wheel 55, 55

[0071] Circular belt 56

[0072] Casing 58

[0073] Base plate 60

[0074] Load-bearing wall 62

[0075] Lower part 64

[0076] Central 66

[0077] upper part 68

[0078] Longitudinal divider 70

[0079] Mounting plate 72

[0080] Outer cover 74

[0081] Top cover 76

[0082] Opening 78

[0083] baffle 80

[0084] Sensitive electronic devices 84

[0085] Communication interface 86

[0086] Sensing element 88

[0087] Processing element 90

[0088] Encoding element 92

[0089] Opening O in the light barrier (49)

Claims

1. A sample processing module (10) cooperating with a load receiver (16) of a weighing device (11) for calibrating a multichannel liquid processing device, the sample processing module (10) comprising: a. A holding device (20) comprising retainers (22) arranged sequentially and at equal intervals to each other and configured to receive a container (26). Its features are, b. A support device (30) comprising a fork array (32) that provides lateral support to the retainer (22) when the retainer (22) is removed from the load receiver (16); and c. An actuating device (44) comprising a pair of shafts (46, 46) operable in tandem, each shaft (46) comprising a plurality of eccentric profiles (48) arranged along a discontinuous helical pitch, such that the actuating device is operatively connected to the retainer (22) via the fork array (32), wherein the actuating device (44) is operable to position the retainer (22) onto the load receiver (16) one at a time by disengaging the corresponding fork (34) supporting the retainer (22).

2. The sample processing module (10) according to claim 1, wherein, Each fork in the fork array (32) is configured as a flexible finger, the finger including a fixed end (36) that is not movable, a free end (38) and a contact portion (42) located between the fixed end (36) and the free end (38).

3. The sample processing module (10) according to claim 2, wherein, The free end (38) of each of the forks (34) extends upward and includes a notch (40) for laterally engaging the retainer (22) when the retainer (22) is removed from the load receiver (16).

4. The sample processing module (10) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The eccentric profile (48) is constructed as a concave shape.

5. The sample processing module (10) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The shafts (46) are arranged parallel to each other and located below the fork array (32) such that the shafts (46) and the contact portions (42) of the fork (34) always remain in face-to-face contact.

6. The sample processing module (10) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The actuation device (44) includes a prime mover (50) for providing prime power to drive the pair of shafts (46, 46).

7. The sample processing module (10) according to claim 6, wherein, The prime mover (50) is an electric motor.

8. The sample processing module (10) according to claim 7, wherein, The actuation device (44) further includes a drive element (52) for tandemly operating the pair of shafts (46, 46) when a prime mover (50) applies a prime mover.

9. The sample processing module (10) according to claim 3, wherein, The retaining device (20) further includes a pair of pins (24) laterally attached to the retainer (22) and extending outward; wherein the pins (24) interact with the load receiver (16) when the retainer (22) to which they are attached is placed; and wherein the pins (24) interact with the notches (40) of the corresponding forks (34) when the respective retainer (22) to which they are attached is removed from the load receiver (16).

10. The sample processing module (10) according to any one of claims 1-3 and 8-9, wherein, The holding device (20), the supporting device (30) and the actuating device (44) are encapsulated in a housing (58); and the housing (58) includes a substrate (60) attached to the platform (12) of the weighing device (11).

11. The sample processing module (10) according to claim 10, wherein, The housing (58) further includes: longitudinal partitions (70) arranged parallel to each other and located on each side of the retaining device (20) to separate the retaining device (20) from the actuating device (44); a mounting plate (72) arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal partitions (70) to mount the actuating device (44); and a top cover (76) having an opening (78) protected by a baffle (80) and the top cover (76) further including an evaporation well; wherein the longitudinal partitions (70), the mounting plate (72) and the top cover (76) together protect the test liquid contained in the container (26) from adverse effects.

12. The sample processing module (10) according to claim 11, wherein, The housing (58) includes: a lower portion (64) adjacent to the substrate (60); a middle portion (66) directly above the lower portion (64); and an upper portion (68) directly above the middle portion (66) and adjacent to the top cover (76); wherein a sensitive electronic device (84) for powering and controlling the sample processing module (10) is located in the lower portion (64); the actuation device (44) is located in the middle portion (66); and the holding device (20) and the support device (30) are located in the upper portion (68).

13. An apparatus (1) for calibrating a multichannel liquid handling device, wherein, The device includes: a weighing device (11); and a sample processing module (10) as described in any one of claims 1-12.

14. A system for operating an actuator (44) according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein, The system includes: a. Actuation device (44), the actuation device being configured to operate according to a predetermined operating cycle, wherein the predetermined operating cycle includes an operating condition and a termination condition; b. Communication interface (86), which is configured to facilitate signal exchange between various components within the system; c. A sensing element (88) configured to: sense the predetermined operating cycle of the actuation device (44), detect whether the operating cycle has reached a termination condition, and provide an output signal when the termination condition is detected; d. A processing element (90) configured to process the output signal representing the termination condition and to issue a processed signal; e. An encoding element (92) configured to generate pulses representing the arrangement of the actuator (44); and to initiate a reset when the predetermined operating cycle of the actuator (44) reaches a termination condition; wherein f. The actuation device (44) iterates the predetermined operation cycle until the system stops operating.

15. A method of operating the actuator (44) using the system according to claim 14, wherein, The method includes: a. (S101) Operate the actuator (44) according to the predetermined operation cycle, wherein the predetermined operation cycle includes the operation condition and the termination condition; b. (S102) Using the encoding element (92), generate pulses representing the arrangement of the actuation device; c. (S103) Using the sensing element (88) to sense the predetermined operating cycle of the actuator (44); d. (S104) Use the communication interface (86) to exchange signals between the components in the system; e. (S105) Check whether the operation cycle has reached the termination condition detected by the sensing element (88); f. (S106) When the termination condition is detected, the output signal is provided from the sensing element (88) to the processing element (90); g. (S107) The processing element (90) processes the output signal from the sensing element (88) and publishes the processed signal; h. (S108) Receive the processed signal from the processing element (90) and reset the predetermined operation cycle of the actuation device (44) to the operating conditions; and reset the encoding element (92). i. (S109) Iterate the predetermined operation cycle of the actuator (44) until the system stops operating.

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