Apparatus, system and method for processing laboratory ware

Abstract

An apparatus is configured to complementarily engage with a pipetting head of a liquid handling system such that movement of the pipetting head effects corresponding movement of the apparatus. The apparatus includes at least one engagement feature configured to mechanically and releasably engage a surface of a laboratory instrument article as a means of releasably coupling the laboratory instrument article to the apparatus. The laboratory instrument article has at least one complementarily engaging feature and optionally at least one release feature. With the laboratory instrument article seemingly within a receiving seat, the apparatus can be translated relative to the laboratory instrument article such that the engagement feature of the apparatus engages the release feature of the laboratory instrument article, thereby permitting release of the laboratory instrument article as the apparatus moves relative to the laboratory instrument article.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit on the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 093,328, filed on October 19, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to apparatus, systems, and methods for handling laboratory equipment. More particularly, in an exemplary aspect, this application relates to apparatus, systems, and methods for providing passive mechanisms for selectively engaging, positioning, and releasing laboratory equipment articles within a liquid handling system. Background Technology

[0004] For example, in the context of liquid handling robotics, reliable physical handling of laboratory equipment is a crucial part of laboratory automation. Over the past few years, numerous mechanical and robotic solutions have been developed to address this need. However, each of these approaches suffers from one or more of the following shortcomings: insufficient actuation force to provide adequate gripping force in some cases; insufficient contact to generate sufficient gripping force in others; insufficient stability of the gripping mechanism; inability to work with non-standard sized laboratory equipment; and / or high cost and / or complexity.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for devices, systems, and methods to address one or more of these shortcomings in existing laboratory equipment handling facilities. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect, a device having a body and a base is disclosed herein. The body is configured for complementary engagement with a pipette tip of a liquid handling system, such that movement of the pipette tip results in a corresponding movement of the device. The base is coupled to the body. The base includes at least one engagement feature configured to mechanically engage the surface of a laboratory instrument article to releasably engage the laboratory instrument article to the device.

[0007] This document further discloses a system comprising the device and laboratory instrument articles having at least one engagement feature that is complementary to a corresponding engagement feature in the at least one engagement feature of the device and configured to releasably mechanically engage the corresponding engagement feature.

[0008] Methods of using the device are also disclosed. In various aspects, one method may include engaging the device using a pipette tip of a liquid handling system. The method may further include positioning the device relative to a laboratory instrument article having at least one engagement feature complementary to a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the device using the pipette tip. The device may be positioned such that at least one engagement feature of the device releasably engages a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article. Where the device releasably engages the laboratory instrument article, the method may further include selectively moving the device and the laboratory instrument article using the pipette tip.

[0009] Additional advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The advantages of the invention will be realized and obtained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative only, and do not limit the claimed invention. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of an exemplary device having a body and a base as disclosed herein. As shown, the base includes at least one engagement feature. Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A bottom view of the equipment.

[0011] Figure 2A It is a front view of an exemplary laboratory apparatus article comprising at least one engagement feature and at least one release feature as disclosed herein. Figure 2B yes Figure 2A The rear front view of the laboratory equipment and items.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an exemplary system comprising a device that releasably engages laboratory equipment items, as disclosed herein.

[0013] Figures 4A to 4I Describe the sequential steps of a method for handling laboratory equipment and items within a liquid handling system. Figure 4A It is an image depicting equipment, laboratory instruments, pipette tips, and receivers in the starting position. Figure 4B It is an image depicting a pipette tip that is positioned above the device. Figure 4C It is an image depicting the connection between the mandrel of the pipette tip and the opening of the device. Figure 4D It is an image depicting the movement of the pipette tip (and device) after they are engaged with the device. Figure 4EIt is an image depicting the engagement between the device and laboratory equipment items in response to the downward movement of the pipette tip. Figure 4F It is an image depicting the movement of a pipette tip (and laboratory equipment) after they have been joined to a device or laboratory instrument. Figure 4G It is an image depicting the positioning of laboratory instruments in relation to the receiving seat in response to the movement of the pipette tip. Figure 4H It is an image depicting laboratory equipment being stored in the receiving seat in response to the downward movement of the pipette tip. Figure 4I It is an image depicting the separation of equipment from laboratory equipment in response to lateral translation and subsequent vertical movement of the equipment relative to the laboratory equipment.

[0014] Figure 5 It is a computing device for controlling the handling of laboratory equipment and materials, as disclosed in this document.

[0015] Figure 6A Images shown herein depict exemplary systems including devices positioned for engaging laboratory equipment and items. Figure 6B It is a display Figure 6A Images of the system, in which equipment is combined with laboratory instruments and items. Figure 6C It is a description of Figures 6A to 6B The front view of the device shown is illustrated. As shown, the device may include one or more protrusions (e.g., supports) configured for reception within corresponding slots of laboratory equipment items.

[0016] It should be understood that the diagrams provided herein represent exemplary, non-limiting embodiments and are not necessarily drawn to scale. Rather, the diagrams are formatted to aid in understanding certain features disclosed herein. For example, the relative sizes of the engagement and disengagement features depicted in the diagrams do not necessarily indicate what would be seen in the liquid handling systems disclosed herein. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The disclosed systems and methods can be more readily understood by referring to the following detailed description of specific embodiments and the examples contained therein, as well as the diagrams and their preceding and subsequent descriptions.

[0018] It should be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0019] It must be noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references. Thus, for example, reference to “joining feature” includes one or more of such joining features, etc.

[0020] "Optional" or "optionally" means that the event, situation, or material described below may or may not occur or exist, and the description includes situations in which the event, situation, or material occurs or exists, as well as situations in which it does not occur or does not exist.

[0021] A range herein may be expressed as from “about” one particular value and / or to “about” another particular value. When expressing such a range, unless the context specifically indicates otherwise, a range from one particular value and / or to another particular value is also specifically considered and regarded as disclosed. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation using the antecedent “about,” it should be understood that, unless the context specifically indicates otherwise, said particular value forms another specifically considered embodiment that should be regarded as disclosed. It should be further understood that, unless the context specifically indicates otherwise, each endpoint of a range is significant relative to and independent of the other endpoint. Finally, it should be understood that, unless the context specifically indicates otherwise, all individual values ​​and subranges of values ​​contained within the explicitly disclosed range are also specifically considered and should be regarded as disclosed. The foregoing applies regardless of whether some or all of these embodiments are explicitly disclosed in a particular case.

[0022] Optionally, in some aspects, when approximating values ​​by using the antecedents “about,” “generally,” or “typically,” values ​​expected to be within the range of up to 15%, up to 10%, up to 5%, or up to 1% (above or below) of the value or characteristic specifically stated may be included in the range of these aspects.

[0023] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosed devices, systems, and methods pertain. Although any device, system, method, and material similar to or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of the devices, systems, and methods of the present invention, particularly useful methods, apparatuses, systems, and materials are as described.

[0024] Throughout the detailed description and claims, the word "comprise" and variations thereof, such as "comprising" and "comprises," mean "including but not limited to" and are not intended to exclude, for example, other additives, components, integers, or steps. In particular, in methods stated to include one or more steps or operations, each step is specifically considered to include the listed contents (unless the step contains a limiting term, such as "consisting of"), meaning that each step is not intended to exclude, for example, other additives, components, integers, or steps not listed in the step description.

[0025] It should be understood that, unless otherwise expressly stated, no method described herein is intended to be construed as requiring its steps to be performed in a particular order. Therefore, unless a method claim actually describes the order in which its steps are followed, or unless the claims or description specifically state that the steps are limited to a particular order, no inference of order should be made in any way. This applies to any possible non-explicit basis of interpretation, including: logical questions concerning the arrangement of steps or the flow of operations; simple meanings derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of aspects described in the description. Therefore, unless otherwise specified by ordinary meaning or logic, words indicating order, such as “first” or “next,” should be interpreted as optional aspects.

[0026] Current laboratory instrument handling methods typically involve actuated clamping mechanisms designed to engage common laboratory instruments (e.g., microplates conforming to the Society for Biomolecular Screening (SBS) standards), relying on friction between the clamps and the instrument to hold it in place during movement. However, as discussed above, these clamping mechanisms often have insufficient clamping force for certain applications, cannot be easily modified to work with non-standard sized laboratory instruments, and often result in undesirable costs or complexity (e.g., by increasing the number of components that must be independently controlled in a coordinated manner to complete the laboratory instrument handling process).

[0027] Other laboratory instrument handling methods involve using a magnetized lifting mechanism to create magnetic attraction between the instrument and the instrument, which has been modified to incorporate magnets. In addition to incurring additional costs, these modifications make the method incompatible with some liquid processing workflows (including magnetic bead DNA purification) and require a power supply system to selectively minimize the magnetization of the lifting mechanism and / or the laboratory instrument to allow for detachment.

[0028] Other methods for addressing this problem involve using a notched arm added to an instrument rack and configured to engage with a metal platform that interacts with a laboratory instrument. After the laboratory instrument is engaged with the metal platform, the notched arm can engage and selectively move the metal platform (and, consequently, the laboratory instrument). However, for this method to work, the metal platform must be installed at every location within the system where the laboratory instrument will move before the robotic workflow is initiated. Furthermore, the liquid handling system must be modified to include the notched arm capable of engaging the metal platform.

[0029] As further disclosed herein, the disclosed apparatus, systems, and methods are intended to facilitate the automated insertion of laboratory instrument items (e.g., in-channel filter (ICF) devices) into receivers (e.g., electrophoresis cartridges) within the coverage area of ​​a liquid handling system, including in cases where such insertion requires considerable force (e.g., 10 to 50 lbs). The disclosed apparatus can be provided as a tool for picking up, transferring, positioning / inserting, and releasing laboratory instrument items by a pipette tip of a liquid handling robot (system). Optionally, the laboratory instrument items may be disposable.

[0030] The device can operate in a passive manner, meaning it requires no electricity and therefore contains no actuating parts. Alternatively, the device relies solely on the interaction between complementary engagement features on the device and the laboratory instrument article to generate the appropriate pickup force. As further disclosed herein, the complementary design features on the device and the laboratory instrument article are expected to provide differentiated holding forces depending on the relative lateral or vertical position between the device and the laboratory instrument article. Therefore, in some aspects, lateral or vertical movement of the device relative to the laboratory instrument article is expected to reduce or even eliminate the clamping force between the device and the laboratory instrument article, thereby allowing the release of the laboratory instrument article (e.g., after insertion into the receiving seat).

[0031] While other applications are covered, in some respects the disclosed devices and systems can be used during automated electrophoresis using liquid handling systems such as the NIMBUS SELECT liquid handling system (Hamilton Company). As further described herein, the disclosed devices, systems, and methods are intended to avoid the need to rely on external robotic gripping solutions (e.g., industrial manufacturing arms), thereby avoiding the considerable cost and complexity constraints associated with such solutions. In particular, in use, to facilitate the automated handling and insertion of laboratory instruments within the physical environment of the liquid handling system, the passive devices disclosed herein can be engaged (“pick-up”) via a pipette tip of the liquid handling system, and the pipette tip can then be used to pick up, transfer, and insert laboratory instruments within the liquid handling system.

[0032] Compared to the devices disclosed herein, conventional clamping mechanisms are unable to apply the force necessary to insert laboratory equipment items (e.g., ICF devices) into a receiver (e.g., a cassette) within a liquid handling system. More specifically, even if a suitable downward force (e.g., 10 to 50 lbs) could be applied by a z-axis actuator connected to such a conventional clamping mechanism—which is typically impossible—the clamping mechanism itself lacks sufficient robustness (mechanical strength) to transmit the downward force to the laboratory equipment item (e.g., ICF device) without breakage.

[0033] Equipment for joining laboratory equipment and items

[0034] refer to Figures 1A to 1B The device 10 may include a body 20 configured for use with the liquid handling system 140 (see [link]). Figures 4A to 4IThe pipette tips 130 are complementaryly engaged so that movement of the pipette tips results in corresponding movement of the device. More specifically, the body 20 is contemplated to have a structure complementary to the distribution of the pipette structure of the pipette tips 130. As used herein, the term "pipette structure" refers to a portion of the pipette extending downward from the pipette tip, and any portion of the pipette tip structure that engages and / or secures the corresponding pipette in the operating position during use. Thus, as used herein, "pipette structure" may comprise both the pipette and the mandrel that engages the pipette when used in its conventional manner. Optionally, in an exemplary aspect, the pipette tips 130 may be used without the pipette being secured to at least a portion of the pipette tip intended to engage with the device 10. A non-limiting example of a suitable pipette tip is the 96-channel CORE pipette (Hamilton Corporation). However, the disclosed body 20 is contemplated to have a structure complementary to the shape and size of any pipetting platform. In an exemplary aspect, the body 20 may define a plurality of openings 22 positioned to receive portions of a pipette structure (e.g., mandrel, shaft, or spindle) extending downward from the pipette tip 130. Optionally, in these aspects, the plurality of openings 22 may comprise multiple rows of multiple openings, wherein the openings in each of the multiple rows are spaced apart relative to a transverse axis 12 perpendicular to the vertical axis 14. In other aspects, it is contemplated that the plurality of openings 22 may be arranged within a single row. In an exemplary aspect, it is contemplated that the number of openings 22 within a given row of openings may be the same as the number of pipette structures within the corresponding row of the pipette tip 130. In use, when the pipette tip 130 is in a selected overlay relationship (alignment) with the body 20, a controller of the liquid handling system 140 may selectively lower the pipette tip 130 to engage the body 20 and securely attach the body to the pipette tip. Optionally, it is contemplated that the mandrel of the pipette tip 130 may be configured to directly engage the inner surface within a corresponding opening of the body 20, without the pipette.

[0035] In an exemplary aspect, the pipette tip 130 is expected to engage the body 20 in various ways. For example, in some aspects, each mandrel of the pipette tip 130 is expected to have an O-ring at or near the tip of the mandrel. In use, the O-ring of each mandrel is expected to be configured to expand radially outward after the mandrel has engaged with the body 20. For example, the O-ring of each mandrel may generate a high frictional engagement with the surface of the body 20 that defines the opening for receiving the mandrel. Alternatively or additionally, in other aspects, each mandrel is expected to have a tapered profile complementary to the opening of the body 20 for receiving the mandrel, thereby creating a frictional engagement between the outer surface of the mandrel and the inner surface of the opening. The exemplary pipette tip 130, which may function as described above, includes a CO-RE pipette interface (Hamilton Corporation), which may optionally be used in combination with the NIMBUS Select liquid handling system (Hamilton Corporation).

[0036] After engagement of the device via the pipette tip 130 as disclosed herein, it is anticipated that the built-in tip removal mechanism of the pipette tip can be selectively activated to disengage the device, for example, after laboratory equipment has been positioned in a selected location. In an exemplary aspect, the pipette tip 130 may include a sleeve positioned external to a mandrel and configured to translate (e.g., downward or laterally) to “eject” the device or otherwise disengage it. When using a CO-RE pipette interface, the same mechanism of the expanding O-ring is anticipated to disengage easily, thereby eliminating the force holding the device in place. The CO-RE pipette tip further includes a sleeve ejector device to help ensure complete disengagement of the device.

[0037] In other exemplary aspects, device 10 may include a base 30 coupled to body 20. In these aspects, base 30 may include at least one engagement feature 32 configured to mechanically (e.g., by friction or via direct interfering contact between complementary surfaces) engage the surface of laboratory instrument article 110 (see Figures 2-3) to releasably couple the laboratory instrument article to device 10. In various aspects, base 30 is contemplated to extend outward (e.g., downward or laterally) from body 20.

[0038] In an exemplary aspect, at least one engagement feature 32 may comprise a plurality of engagement features. In these aspects, it is contemplated that the plurality of engagement features 32 may be spaced apart along the transverse axis 12. As further disclosed herein, the plurality of engagement features may be oriented to align with corresponding engagement axes perpendicular to the transverse axis 12 and the vertical axis 14. For example, the plurality of engagement features may comprise first and second engagement features aligned with a first engagement axis 34a and a second engagement axis 34b, respectively. Although the examples disclosed herein describe two engagement features, it is contemplated that any desired number of engagement features may be provided.

[0039] In various exemplary aspects, multiple engagement features may include multiple male components (e.g., protrusions, supports, etc.) housed within corresponding female receivers (keyholes, recesses, openings, slots, notches, etc.) of laboratory apparatus articles as further disclosed herein. For example, multiple engagement features may include a first plunger 32a and a second plunger 32b, respectively biased to extend outward relative to a first engagement axis 34a and a second engagement axis 34b (from the base 30). Optionally, in these aspects, the first plunger 32a and the second plunger 32b may be spring-loaded to extend outward relative to the first engagement axis 34a and the second engagement axis 34b (in a direction toward the laboratory apparatus article 110 to be engaged). Figures 1A to 1BAs shown, the first plunger 32a and the second plunger 32b may be biased to extend toward corresponding protrusions 38a, 38b, as further described below. Although the engagement feature 32 of device 10 is depicted as a plunger, other complementary engagement structures are contemplated for use. Examples of other suitable engagement features include machined features (clumps, protrusions, keys, tongues, etc.), spring tabs, compressible surfaces, textured or treated surfaces, or combinations thereof. In other aspects, compression or deflection of the engagement feature 32, the support leg 36, the complementary engagement features on laboratory apparatus 110, laboratory apparatus 112, or a combination thereof, may be used to generate a mechanical (e.g., friction-based) engagement force. In further exemplary aspects, the engagement feature 32 of device 10 may include a hinged or engaging structure that mechanically engages portions of laboratory apparatus articles when the device comes into contact with them. Such structures are expected to include one or more latching elements that move back and forth between an engaged or deployed position and a released or retracted position, for example, in response to forces (e.g., downward, upward, or lateral forces) experienced when picking up and placing / inserting laboratory instrument items, as further disclosed herein.

[0040] In other exemplary aspects, multiple engagement features 32 may include “male” components (e.g., protrusions, supports, plungers, etc.) configured to engage and at least partially receive the laboratory instrument article to attach the base 30 to one or more “female” receiving seats (e.g., slots, openings, recesses, notches, keyholes, other “female” storage spaces, etc.) of the laboratory instrument article.

[0041] In other aspects, the base 30 may include at least one leg 36. In various aspects, each of the at least one leg 36 may define or receive (accommodate) a portion of a corresponding engagement feature 32. In these aspects, each leg 36 is contemplated to extend outward from the outer surface of the base 30. Optionally, each leg 36 may extend downward from the bottom surface of the base 30. However, in other aspects, each leg 36 may extend laterally or upward from the outer surface of the base 30.

[0042] Optionally, in some exemplary aspects, each leg 36 may define a hole or cavity aligned with and shaped to receive (accommodate) a portion of a corresponding engagement feature. For example, in these aspects, at least one leg 36 may include a first leg 36a and a second leg 36b that receive (accommodate) corresponding portions of first and second engagement features (e.g., first plunger 32a and second plunger 32b). However, it is contemplated that any desired number of legs 36 (and associated engagement features) may be used.

[0043] Optionally, in other exemplary aspects, each leg 36 may define a corresponding “female” engagement feature (e.g., a recess or keyhole) as disclosed herein. For example, at least one leg 36 may include a first leg 36a and a second leg 36b defining a corresponding “female” engagement feature. However, it is contemplated that any desired number of legs 36 (and associated engagement features) may be used.

[0044] In other aspects, the base 30 may further include at least one protrusion 38 extending outward from the outer surface of the base. Optionally, in these aspects, at least one protrusion 38 may extend downward from the bottom surface of the base. However, in other aspects, at least one protrusion 38 may extend laterally or upward from the outer surface of the base. Optionally, in various aspects, each protrusion 38 may be aligned with a corresponding engagement axis. Alternatively, at least one protrusion 38 (optionally, each protrusion) may be offset from the engagement axis (aligned with engagement feature 32) such that no engagement axis intersects with the protrusion 38. In an exemplary aspect, at least one protrusion 38 may include a first protrusion 38a and a second protrusion 38b. As shown, in these aspects, the first protrusion 38a may be spaced apart from and aligned with the first leg 36a relative to the first engagement axis 34a, and the second protrusion 38b may be spaced apart from and aligned with the second leg 36b relative to the second engagement axis 34b. In use, each protrusion 38 can be configured to engage the surface of the laboratory instrument article 110 opposite to the surface of the laboratory instrument article facing the corresponding engagement feature 32 or the surface to be engaged by the corresponding engagement feature, thereby providing additional support to the laboratory instrument article.

[0045] Optionally, the body 20 and the base 30 can be integrally formed as a single piece. In some exemplary aspects, conventional machining, injection molding, or 3D printing techniques can be used to form at least one of the body 20 or the base 30 (optionally, the body 20 and the base 30 may be together or separate). In other optional aspects, and as... Figures 1A to 1B As shown, the base can be secured to the body by at least one fastener 50. Optionally, in these aspects, the at least one fastener 50 may comprise a plurality of screws or bolts extending vertically or laterally through at least a portion of the body 20 and at least a portion of the base 30. As shown, such fasteners 50 are contemplated to be positioned such that they are spaced apart from the opening 22 of the body 20 and the engagement feature 32 of the base 30, thereby preventing interference with the operation of the device 10 as further disclosed herein.

[0046] In an exemplary aspect, the body 20 and / or base 30 of device 10 are intended to comprise non-brittle, high-strength plastics, including, but not limited to, polycarbonate, ABS, deltamethrin, PEEK, etc., thereby ensuring that device 10 is lightweight and robust. Alternatively, in other aspects, the body 20 and / or base 30 are intended to comprise metallic materials, such as, but not limited to, aluminum.

[0047] As further described herein, device 10 is not intended to include a power supply. It is further intended that device 10 does not include actuators. Instead, all movement of device 10 is driven by an actuator (e.g., a high-power actuator) mechanically coupled to the pipette head 130 of the device's liquid handling system 140. Therefore, the disclosed device 10 is intended to be used without requiring modification to the electrical and / or power settings of the liquid handling system 140.

[0048] A system for engaging and positioning laboratory equipment and items.

[0049] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the disclosed device 10 may be provided as a component of system 100, and may also include a laboratory instrument article 110 having at least one engagement feature 112, said at least one engagement feature being complementary to and configured to releasably engage the corresponding engagement feature 32 of at least one engagement feature of the device. Optionally, in an exemplary aspect, at least one engagement feature 112 of the laboratory instrument article 110 may include a plurality of engagement features spaced apart relative to the transverse axis 12. In an exemplary aspect, at least one engagement feature 112 of the laboratory instrument article 110 may include at least a portion of a feature or surface 114 shaped or otherwise configured to provide sufficient clamping force when engaged with at least one engagement feature 32 of the device 10.

[0050] In terms of exemplarity, and with reference to Figure 3 The laboratory instrument item 110 may have a width (e.g., the width relative to each respective engagement axis). In these respects, the width of the laboratory instrument item may be less than the gap between the protrusion 38 and the leg 36 of the device 10, thereby allowing the laboratory instrument item to be received between the protrusion and the leg of the device.

[0051] Optionally, in an exemplary aspect, laboratory instrument article 110 may be an in-channel filter (ICF) device. In other optional aspects, laboratory instrument article 110 is contemplated to be an electrode device designed to engage an electrophoresis cartridge. Exemplary ICF devices and electrode devices, which may be modified to have the engagement and release features disclosed herein, are sold and / or manufactured by COASTAL GENOMICS. In yet another optional aspect, laboratory instrument article 110 may be a microtiter plate designed to engage a passive receiver (e.g., a passive location within a liquid handling system) or a functionally active receiver (e.g., a vacuum manifold). These disclosed examples of laboratory instrument article 110 are contemplated to correspond to conventional or standard versions of these laboratory instrument articles 110 that have been modified to include engagement feature 112 and / or release feature 118 as disclosed herein. Thus, the disclosed laboratory instrument article 110 is contemplated to be optionally modified after initial manufacture of the laboratory instrument article. Alternatively, the initial manufacturing process of laboratory equipment articles may be modified to incorporate the structural modifications disclosed herein. In some cases, depending on the equipment engagement feature 32 employed, existing surfaces of laboratory equipment articles (e.g., surface 114) may serve as suitable complementary engagement features 112 without further modification.

[0052] In other aspects, system 100 is expected to further include a pipette tip 130. In these aspects, the system is further expected to include a liquid handling system 140 (e.g., a liquid handling robot) incorporating the pipette tip 130.

[0053] A system of laboratory equipment items with "mother" joining characteristics.

[0054] In other exemplary aspects, and as shown in FIG. 2, at least one engagement feature 112 of the laboratory apparatus article 110 may include at least one “mother” receiver (e.g., recess, keyhole, etc.) defined in the surface 114 of the laboratory apparatus article. In these aspects, when at least one engagement feature 32 of the device 10 includes at least one plunger, it is contemplated that the head of each plunger may have a shape complementary to the shape of a corresponding receiver (e.g., recess) in at least one receiver (e.g., recess) of the laboratory apparatus article 110. Optionally, in exemplary aspects, the head of each plunger may have a spherical shape as known in the art. In these aspects, it is contemplated that each receiver (e.g., recess) of the laboratory apparatus article 110 may have a recessed shape complementary to the spherical shape of the plunger. However, it is contemplated that receivers may be provided in other forms, including slots, recesses, openings, or similar structures, such as for receiving the complementary structure of the corresponding engagement feature 32 of the base 30.

[0055] Figures 6A to 6CAn exemplary embodiment is depicted, wherein each engagement feature 32 of the device is provided as a pillar 33 (or protrusion) and each receiving seat of the laboratory instrument article is provided in the form of a slot 113. As shown, in this embodiment, each slot may have a variable profile (e.g., variable height or depth) that changes movement along an axis (e.g., a transverse axis or a vertical axis), thereby providing a variable engagement force as the device translates relative to the laboratory instrument article, as further disclosed herein. For example, as Figure 6C As shown, each slot 113 may have an intermediate section that forms an enlarged opening compared to adjacent end sections located on either side of the intermediate section. In these aspects, an engagement feature 32 (e.g., a support 33) is intended to be received (optionally, initially received) within one of the end sections (with limited openings), thereby providing a first engagement force. Further, the engagement feature 32 is intended to be translated (laterally or vertically (downward or upward)) until it is received within the intermediate section, thereby providing a second engagement force less than the first engagement force and allowing the engagement feature to retract from the slot 113 to disengage the laboratory instrument article 110. Thus, the end sections of the slot 113 are intended to define an engagement feature 112, while the intermediate sections of the slot 113 are intended to define a release feature 118, as further disclosed herein. Optionally, instead of initially retracting into the end sections, the engagement feature 32 is intended to be initially retracted into the intermediate sections, and then translated (laterally or vertically) until it is retracted into one of the end sections to generate the previously referenced first engagement force. This method may be advantageous where the retraction of the engagement feature of the device 32 (e.g., the support 33) within the engagement feature of the laboratory apparatus article 112 is best achieved through relative movement along the transverse axis 12. Optionally, each slot 113 may extend through the thickness or depth of the laboratory apparatus article or the wall of the laboratory apparatus article such that the support 33 may extend beyond the slot. Optionally, the device 10 may include one or more legs defining or coupled to the support 33 (or protrusion).

[0056] In other aspects, the engagement feature 112 is intended to include a textured or treated surface configured to provide sufficient mechanical (e.g., frictional) engagement with the corresponding engagement feature 32 of the base 30, thereby engaging the laboratory instrument article 110 in the manner disclosed herein.

[0057] Optionally, in other aspects, the laboratory instrument article 110 may have at least one release feature 118 configured to releasably engage or at least partially receive a corresponding engagement feature 32 of at least one engagement feature of the device in response to translation of the device 10 relative to the laboratory instrument article (e.g., lateral translation along the transverse axis 12). As used in this context, the term "releasably engage" is intended to refer to contact between engagement feature 32 and release feature 118 that may be selectively interrupted upon further translation of the device relative to the laboratory instrument article. In use, when the laboratory instrument article 110 is engaged by the device 10, the liquid handling system 140 is contemplated to be configured to move the pipette head 130 such that the laboratory instrument article is received within a receiver 150 (e.g., within one or more corresponding cavities of the receiver), such as, but not limited to, a cartridge for liquid handling processes. Optionally, the cartridge may be configured to have cavities configured to complementaryly receive an ICF device, as further disclosed herein. More generally, the housing is intended to be selectable to have at least one cavity configured to complementaryly receive at least a portion of the laboratory instrument article 110 engaged by the device 10. When the laboratory instrument article 110 is received within the receiving seat 150, the receiving seat is structured to restrict or prevent movement of the laboratory instrument article in one or more directions. For example, the receiving seat may restrict or prevent lateral movement of the laboratory instrument article. Thus, when the liquid handling system 140 initiates movement of the pipette head 130 in one or more directions (e.g., laterally or vertically), the device 10 translates relative to the laboratory instrument article 110 (e.g., laterally or vertically) until at least one (optionally, each) engagement feature 32 of the device 10 is received within or releasably engaged with the corresponding release feature 118. In some aspects, the engagement feature 32 is intended to be received within the corresponding release feature 118 without contacting the laboratory instrument article. In other respects, it is anticipated that engagement feature 32 can releasably engage with a corresponding release feature such that further translation of the device reduces mechanical engagement until engagement feature 32 is no longer in contact with the release feature (or any other part of the laboratory instrument article).

[0058] As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, in an exemplary aspect, at least one release feature 118 of the laboratory apparatus article 110 may include at least one groove defined within a surface 114 of the laboratory apparatus article. In these aspects, each of the at least one groove may be laterally spaced from a corresponding engagement feature 112 of at least one engagement feature of the laboratory apparatus article. Optionally, as shown, a plurality of grooves may be provided, wherein at least some grooves are laterally positioned between sequential engagement features of the laboratory apparatus article. In other aspects, each of the at least one groove may have a variable width (measured relative to the transverse axis 12) and / or a variable depth that increases movement in the upward direction. This tapered geometry ensures that the engagement force between at least one groove and at least one engagement feature 32 of the device 10 is reduced when the device is translated in a direction relative to the laboratory apparatus article 110 (e.g., upward); thus, this tapered geometry may facilitate the release of the laboratory apparatus article from the device as the device moves in said direction (e.g., upward). In these respects, it is further anticipated that the clamping force between the device 10 and the laboratory instrument article 110 during disengagement is lower than the clamping force present during the engagement or transport of the laboratory instrument.

[0059] Although described above as having variable depth and / or variable width, it is contemplated that each release feature 118 of the laboratory instrument article 110 may have any structural and / or material properties configured to provide a release force smaller than that required to form the initial engagement between the device 10 and the laboratory instrument article. Preferably, but not necessarily, each release feature 118 is contemplated to provide a variable engagement force (i.e., frictional engagement force) that reduces movement in a certain direction (e.g., upward) such that movement of the device in said direction (e.g., upward) will easily disengage the laboratory instrument article 110 from the device. Other non-limiting examples of release features 118 include: sections of the laboratory instrument article 110 having a smaller coefficient of friction than engagement feature 112; sections of the laboratory instrument article 110 that may be differentially compressible relative to engagement feature 112; grooves or channels that completely exclude or avoid contact with engagement feature 32 of the device 10; inclined, tapered, or curved surfaces that gradually reduce the amount of contact with engagement feature 32 of the device 10; or combinations thereof.

[0060] Optionally, in some respects, and with reference to Figures 2A to 2BThe laboratory apparatus article 110 is expected to have opposing first and second outer surfaces, and at least one engagement feature 112 of the laboratory apparatus article may include at least one first engagement feature 112a positioned along the first outer surface 114 and at least one second engagement feature 112b positioned along the second outer surface 115. In these aspects, each of the at least one first engagement feature is expected to be aligned with a corresponding second engagement feature of the at least one second engagement feature relative to a respective engagement axis. Optionally, it is further expected that at least one first engagement feature may include a plurality of first engagement features, and at least one second engagement feature may include a plurality of second engagement features. In an exemplary aspect, the first outer surface may have at least one release feature 118 (optionally, a plurality of release features). Similarly, it is expected that the second outer surface may have at least one release feature 118 (optionally, a plurality of release features) in the same manner as the first surface. In other aspects, each of the at least one engagement feature of the device is configured to engage a first engagement feature or a second engagement feature of the laboratory apparatus article. Therefore, in use, the presence of engagement features 112 and release features 118 on both sides of the laboratory instrument article 110 is intended to allow the device 10 to engage the laboratory instrument article 110 regardless of the initial orientation of the laboratory instrument article. In other aspects, it is anticipated that when at least one protrusion 38 is provided on the device 10, the protrusion may define an engagement surface configured to engage a corresponding second engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

[0061] Although depicted in the figures as having a release feature 118, it is contemplated that in some embodiments, the laboratory instrument article 110 may be provided without a different release feature. For example, when the engagement feature of the device includes a latching element or other structure that can be selectively deployed or retracted to adjust the engagement force between the device and the laboratory instrument article, it is contemplated that the release feature may be omitted without affecting the functionality of the disclosed system.

[0062] A system of laboratory equipment items with "male" joint features.

[0063] In other exemplary aspects, at least one engagement feature 112 of the laboratory apparatus article 110 may include at least one “male” feature (e.g., a protrusion, support, plunger, etc.) extending outward from the surface 114 of the laboratory apparatus article. In these aspects, when at least one engagement feature 32 of the device 10 includes at least a “female” receiver, each “male” feature 112 of the laboratory apparatus article is contemplated to have a shape (e.g., a spherical shape) complementary to the shape (e.g., a recessed shape) of a corresponding receiver (e.g., a recess, slot, groove, opening, etc.) in at least one receiver (e.g., a receptacle) of the laboratory apparatus article 110. For example, each receiver of the device 10 is contemplated to have a receptacle shape complementary to the spherical shape of the corresponding “male” feature of the laboratory apparatus article 110.

[0064] In exemplary aspects, the male engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article may be provided as a pillar (or protrusion), and each female receiving seat of the device 10 may be provided as a slot. In these aspects, each slot is contemplated to have a variable profile (e.g., variable height, diameter, or depth) that changes movement along an axis (e.g., a transverse axis or a vertical axis), thereby providing a variable engagement force as the device translates relative to the laboratory instrument article, as further disclosed herein. For example, each slot may have an intermediate section that forms an enlarged opening compared to adjacent end sections positioned on either side of the intermediate section. In these aspects, the male engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article (e.g., a pillar) is contemplated to be retracted (optionally, initially retracted) within one of the end sections (having a limited opening), thereby providing a first engagement force. Further, it is anticipated that the device can be translated (laterally or vertically) relative to the laboratory instrument article until each "male" engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article is housed within an intermediate section, thereby providing a second engagement force less than the first engagement force and allowing the device to be easily translated so that the "female" engagement feature disengages the "male" engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article. Therefore, it is anticipated that the end sections of the slot may define engagement feature 32, while the intermediate section of the slot may define a release feature of the device. Optionally, instead of initially being housed in the end sections, it is anticipated that engagement feature 112 of the laboratory instrument article may initially be housed in the intermediate section, after which the device 10 is translated (laterally or vertically) until engagement feature 112 is housed in one of the end sections to generate the previously referenced first engagement force. This method is advantageous where the housing of engagement feature 112 of the laboratory instrument article 110 within the engagement feature of the device 32 is best achieved through relative movement along the transverse axis 12. Optionally, each slot of the device 10 may extend through the legs 36 of the base 30 so that the "male" engagement feature of the laboratory instrument item may extend beyond the slot.

[0065] In other aspects, the anticipated engagement feature 32 may include a textured or treated surface configured to provide sufficient mechanical (e.g., frictional) engagement with the corresponding engagement feature 112 of the laboratory instrument article 100, thereby engaging the laboratory instrument article 110 in the manner disclosed herein.

[0066] Optionally, in other aspects, the device 10 may have at least one release feature configured to releasably engage or at least partially receive a corresponding engagement feature 112 of at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article 110 in response to translation of the device 10 relative to the laboratory instrument article (e.g., lateral translation along the transverse axis 12). As used in this context, the term "releasably engage" is intended to refer to contact between the engagement feature 112 of the laboratory instrument article and the release feature of the device 10, which may be selectively interrupted upon further translation of the device relative to the laboratory instrument article. In use, when the laboratory instrument article 110 is engaged by the device 10, the liquid handling system 140 is contemplated to be configured to move the pipette head 130 such that the laboratory instrument article is received within a receiver 150 (e.g., within one or more corresponding cavities of the receiver), such as, but not limited to, a cartridge for liquid handling processes. Optionally, the cartridge may be configured to have cavities configured to complementaryly receive an ICF device, as further disclosed herein. More generally, the housing is intended to be selectable to have at least one cavity configured to complementaryly receive at least a portion of the laboratory instrument article 110 engaged by the device 10. When the laboratory instrument article 110 is received within the receiver 150, the receiver's structure may restrict or prevent movement of the laboratory instrument article in one or more directions. For example, the receiver may restrict or prevent lateral movement of the laboratory instrument article. Thus, when the liquid handling system 140 initiates movement of the pipette head 130 in one or more directions (e.g., laterally or vertically), the device 10 translates relative to the laboratory instrument article 110 (e.g., laterally or vertically) until at least one (optionally, each) engagement feature 112 of the laboratory instrument article 110 is received within or releasably engaged with the corresponding release feature of the device. In some aspects, it is intended that the engagement feature 112 may be received within the corresponding release feature without contacting the device. In other respects, it is anticipated that engagement feature 112 can releasably engage with a corresponding release feature such that further translation of the device reduces mechanical engagement until engagement feature 112 is no longer in contact with the release feature (or any other part of the device).

[0067] In an exemplary aspect, at least one release feature of device 10 may include at least one groove defined within a surface of the device (e.g., the surface of base 30). In these aspects, each of the at least one groove may be laterally spaced from a corresponding engagement feature 32 of at least one engagement feature of device 10. Optionally, a plurality of grooves may be provided, wherein at least some grooves are laterally positioned between sequential engagement features of device 10. In other aspects, each of the at least one groove may have a variable width (e.g., measured relative to the transverse axis 12) and / or a variable depth (e.g., which increases in the upward direction). This tapered geometry ensures that the engagement force between at least one groove and at least one engagement feature 112 of laboratory apparatus article 110 is reduced when the device is translated in a direction relative to laboratory apparatus article 110 (e.g., upward); thus, this tapered geometry may facilitate the release of laboratory apparatus article from the device as the device moves in said direction (e.g., upward). In these respects, it is further anticipated that the clamping force between the device 10 and the laboratory equipment article 110 during disengagement is lower than the clamping force present during the engagement or transport of the laboratory equipment article.

[0068] Although described above as having variable depth and / or variable width, it is contemplated that each release feature of device 10 may have any structural and / or material properties configured to provide a release force smaller than that required to form the initial engagement between device 10 and laboratory instrument article 110. Preferably, but not necessarily, each release feature is contemplated to provide a variable engagement force (i.e., frictional engagement force) that reduces movement in a certain direction (e.g., upward) such that movement of the device in said direction (e.g., upward) will easily disengage the laboratory instrument article 110 from the device. Other non-limiting examples of release features include: sections of device 10 having a smaller coefficient of friction than engagement feature 32; sections of device 10 that may compress differentially relative to engagement feature 32; grooves or channels that completely exclude or avoid contact with engagement feature 112 of laboratory instrument article 110; inclined, tapered, or curved surfaces that gradually reduce the amount of contact with engagement feature 112 of laboratory instrument article 110; or combinations thereof.

[0069] Optionally, in some aspects, the base 30 of the device 10 is intended to have opposing first and second outer surfaces, and at least one engagement feature 32 of the device 10 is intended to include at least one first engagement feature positioned along the first outer surface and at least one second engagement feature positioned along the second outer surface. In these aspects, each of the at least one first engagement feature is intended to be aligned with a corresponding second engagement feature of the at least one second engagement feature relative to a respective engagement axis. Optionally, it is further intended that at least one first engagement feature may include a plurality of first engagement features, and at least one second engagement feature may include a plurality of second engagement features. In an exemplary aspect, the first outer surface may have at least one release feature (optionally, a plurality of release features). Similarly, the second outer surface is intended to have at least one release feature (optionally, a plurality of release features) in the same manner as the first surface. In other aspects, each of the at least one engagement feature of the device is configured to engage either a first engagement feature or a second engagement feature of a laboratory instrument article. Thus, in use, the presence of engagement features 32 and release features on both sides of the device 10 is intended to allow the device 10 to engage the laboratory instrument article 110 regardless of the initial orientation of the laboratory instrument article.

[0070] Methods for assembling and positioning laboratory equipment and items

[0071] Based on the devices and systems disclosed herein, and with reference to Figures 4A to 4I The method may include using a pipette tip of a liquid handling system to engage a device. The method may further include using the pipette tip to position (optionally, above) a laboratory instrument article having at least one engagement feature complementary to a corresponding engagement feature of at least one engagement feature of the device. The method may further include using the pipette tip to position the device relative to the laboratory instrument article (optionally, lowering the device above the laboratory instrument article) such that at least one engagement feature of the device releasably engages a corresponding engagement feature of at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article. In the case where the device releasably engages the laboratory instrument article, the method may further include using the pipette tip to selectively move the device and the laboratory instrument article (together). As further described herein, the pipette tip may translate along an axis (e.g., downward or at least partially downward along a vertical axis) to engage the device, and at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article may include a plurality of engagement features spaced apart relative to a transverse axis. As used herein, the term “partially downward” refers to movement that positions the pipette tip (or other structure) at a lower position relative to the vertical axis, even if this movement also results in a change of position relative to one or more horizontal axes.

[0072] In other aspects, the method may include using a pipette tip to position a laboratory instrument article within a receiving seat that restricts movement of the laboratory instrument article. In these aspects, the method may further include using the pipette tip to translate the device relative to the laboratory instrument article (e.g., lateral or vertical translation). As further disclosed herein, the laboratory instrument article may have at least one release feature that releasably engages a corresponding engagement feature of at least one engagement feature of the device in response to translation of the device relative to the laboratory instrument article (e.g., lateral or vertical translation).

[0073] In other aspects, the method may include using a pipette tip to translate the device in at least one direction relative to the laboratory instrument article (e.g., upward or at least partially upward, or laterally or at least partially laterally) until the device disengages the laboratory instrument article. As used herein, the term "partially upward" refers to movement that positions the device at a higher position relative to a vertical axis, even if such movement also results in a change of position relative to one or more horizontal axes. Similarly, the term "partially laterally" refers to movement that positions the device at a different position relative to a horizontal axis (e.g., a transverse axis), even if such movement also results in a change of position relative to a vertical axis. In these aspects, it is contemplated that the engagement force between at least one release feature 118 and at least one engagement feature of the device 32 is less than the engagement force between at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article 112 and at least one engagement feature of the device 32. Optionally, in these aspects, it is further anticipated that the engagement force between at least one release feature 118 and at least one engagement feature of the device 32 decreases when the device is translated in a direction relative to the laboratory instrument article (e.g., upward or at least partially upward, or laterally or at least partially laterally). Optionally, as disclosed herein, each release feature may be a groove having a variable width and / or variable depth.

[0074] Optionally, in other aspects, the method may further include using a pipette tip to translate the device to apply a force (e.g., a downward force) to the laboratory instrument article to ensure that the laboratory instrument article is fully contained within the receiver. Thus, after the laboratory instrument article is detached (and at least partially contained within the receiver), the pipette tip may be controlled to translate relative to (e.g., above) the laboratory instrument article and apply a force (e.g., a downward force) at one or more locations along the length of the laboratory instrument article to ensure that the laboratory instrument article is fully contained within the receiver.

[0075] In operation, the disclosed devices, systems, and methods are expected to offer a variety of advantages compared to existing clamping mechanisms. For example, the disclosed devices, systems, and methods are expected to fully utilize the high-force actuators of liquid handling systems to drive pipette tips, thereby providing a higher level of force for initiating clamping actions, transporting laboratory equipment items, and ensuring that laboratory equipment items are fully contained within the receiving seat. As used herein, the term "fully contained" indicates that portions of laboratory equipment items designed to be complementaryly contained within the receiving seat are fully contained or nested within the receiving seat. As another example, the disclosed devices, systems, and methods may employ a top-down engagement method that allows the full force of the high-force actuator to be transferred to the laboratory equipment item during initial engagement. This top-down engagement method is also expected to allow for a low-profile design of the device, thereby minimizing the possibility of physical interference with other objects that may be very laterally close to the laboratory equipment item during pickup and release.

[0076] In other exemplary aspects, the dimensions of the intended device (particularly the structure and dimensions of the base 30) are intended to be specifically tailored to the laboratory instrument items being joined. Because the disclosed device is a passive device, it is intended to be inexpensive to manufacture, thereby making the special customization of the laboratory instrument for the device economically feasible (especially when compared to, for example, custom-sized clamps constructed for joining non-standard laboratory instruments).

[0077] As further described herein, the friction-based or interference-based pickup mechanisms disclosed herein allow for modulation of frictional or interference forces based on the lateral position of the device relative to the laboratory instrument item. In use, this feature allows the device to be positioned to ensure high mechanical engagement (e.g., high frictional) forces during pickup and transport of the laboratory instrument item, and then laterally repositioned (i.e., with less lateral / lateral movement) after the laboratory instrument item is placed / inserted into the receiver to allow for low-force release. This effectively replicates the “pick-up” and “release” function of an actuated clamp in a passive device (i.e., without actuators or power sources). As further described herein, the latch-based pickup mechanisms disclosed herein also effectively replicate the “pick-up” and “release” function of an actuated clamp in a passive device (i.e., without actuators or power sources). As disclosed herein, this function depends on complementary features on the pickup device and the laboratory instrument item itself. In some embodiments, such as when the engagement feature of the device is compressible or friction-based, or when the engagement feature includes a latching mechanism, complementary features on laboratory equipment may be portions of the outer surface of the laboratory equipment article that are appropriately positioned and oriented.

[0078] As further described herein, the device can provide differentiated mechanical engagement (e.g., frictional) forces for “pick-up” and “release” operations. This can be facilitated by: 1) complementary features on the device and laboratory instrument items, and 2) relative movement (e.g., relative lateral movement) between the device and the laboratory instrument items. Importantly, the ability to perform this movement (e.g., lateral movement) depends on adequately supported laboratory instrument items, thereby allowing the device to move in an orientation (e.g., lateral direction) while the laboratory instrument items remain stationary. Alternatively, this functionality can be achieved by the engagement feature 32 switching between two latching states (engagement pair release), for example, in response to a force (e.g., a downward force) applied during the picking up and placing of the laboratory instrument items.

[0079] Computing device

[0080] Figure 5 A computing system 1000, as disclosed herein, is shown in an exemplary configuration including a computing device 1001 for controlling the movement of the system liquid handling system 140 and thus the pipette tip 130 (and therefore the control device 10).

[0081] The computing device 1001 may include one or more processors 1003, system memory 1012, and a bus 1013 that connects various components of the computing device 1001, which includes one or more processors 1003, to the system memory 1012. In the case of multiple processors 1003, the computing device 1001 may utilize parallel computing.

[0082] Bus 1013 may include one or more of several possible types of bus structures, such as memory bus, memory controller, peripheral bus, accelerated graphics port, and processor or local bus using any of the various bus architectures.

[0083] The computing device 1001 can operate on and / or include a variety of computer-readable media (e.g., non-transitory). The computer-readable media can be any available media accessible by the computing device 1001 and including non-transitory, volatile, and / or non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. The system memory 1012 has computer-readable media in the form of volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM)) and / or non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM)). The system memory 1012 can store data 1007 (i.e., data provided by a system operator or generated by software executed by a processor) and / or program modules (e.g., operating system 1005 and liquid handling system control software 1006) accessible by one or more processors 1003 and / or operable on one or more processors. In an exemplary aspect, data 1007 may include: information about the size and / or location of the device 10 to be engaged by the pipette tip 130; information about the size and / or location of the laboratory instrument article 110 to be engaged by the device 10; information about the location of the receiver 150 (including, for example, a specific location within the receiver where the laboratory instrument article 110 is to be received); and / or information about the timing of lateral movement of the pipette tip (and device) after the laboratory instrument article 110 is received within the receiver.

[0084] The computing device 1001 may also include other removable / non-removable, volatile / non-volatile computer storage media. The mass storage device 1004 provides non-volatile storage for computer code, computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data used in the computing device 1001. The mass storage device 1004 may be a hard disk, removable disk, removable optical disk, magnetic tape or other magnetic storage device, flash memory card, CD-ROM, DVD or other optical storage device, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), etc.

[0085] Any number of program modules may be stored on the mass storage device 1004. The operating system 1005 and the tufting machine control software 1006 may be stored on the mass storage device 1004. One or more of the operating system 1005 and the liquid handling system control software 1006 (or a combination thereof) may include program modules and the liquid handling system control software 1006. Data 1007 may also be stored on the mass storage device 1004. Data 1007 may be stored in any one of one or more databases known in the art. The databases may be centralized or distributed across multiple locations within the network 1015.

[0086] Users can use input devices (not shown) to input commands and information into computing device 1001. Such input devices include, but are not limited to, keyboards, pointing devices (e.g., computer mice, remote controls), touchscreens, microphones, joysticks, scanners, haptic input devices (e.g., gloves), and other body coverings, motion sensors, etc. These and other input devices can be connected to one or more processors 1003 via human-machine interface 1002 coupled to bus 1013, but can also be connected via other interfaces and bus structures such as parallel ports, game ports, IEEE 1394 ports (also known as FireWire ports), serial ports, network adapter 1008, and / or Universal Serial Bus (USB).

[0087] Display device 1011 can also be connected to bus 1013 via an interface such as display adapter 1009. It is anticipated that computing device 1001 may have more than one display adapter 1009 and more than one display device 1011. Display device 1011 may be a monitor, liquid crystal display (LCD), light-emitting diode (LED) display, television, smart lens, smart glass, and / or projector. In addition to display device 1011, other output peripherals may include components such as speakers (not shown) and printers (not shown) that can be connected to computing device 1001 via input / output interface 1010. Any step and / or result of the method may be output (or cause to be output) to an output device in any form. This output may be any form of visual representation, including but not limited to text, graphics, animation, audio, haptic feedback, etc. Display 1011 and computing device 1001 may be part of or separate from a single device.

[0088] Computing device 1001 can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computing devices 1014a, 1014b, 1014c. The remote computing devices 1014a, 1014b, 1014c can be personal computers, computing sites (e.g., workstations), portable computers (e.g., laptops, mobile phones, tablets), smart devices (e.g., smartphones, smartwatches, activity trackers, smart clothing, smart accessories), security and / or monitoring devices, servers, routers, network computers, peer-to-peer devices, edge devices, or other common network nodes, etc. The logical connection between computing device 1001 and the remote computing devices 1014a, 1014b, 1014c can be formed using a network 1015, such as a local area network (LAN) and / or a general wide area network (WAN). Such network connections can be implemented via a network adapter 1008. The network adapter 1008 can be implemented in both wired and wireless environments. Such networking environments are common and routine in homes, offices, enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets, and the Internet. Remote computing devices 1014a, 1014b, and 1014c are expected to optionally have some or all of the components disclosed as part of computing device 1001. In an exemplary aspect, computing device 1001 is expected to provide components of a cloud-based network as known in the art.

[0089] Exemplary aspects

[0090] In view of the products, systems, and methods described, as well as their variations, certain more specific aspects of the invention are described below. However, these specifically set forth aspects should not be construed as limiting any different claims that contain different or more general teachings as described herein, or as limiting in any way the inherent meaning of the "specific" aspect rather than the language used therein.

[0091] Aspect 1: An apparatus comprising: a body configured for complementary engagement with a pipette tip of a liquid handling system such that movement of the pipette tip results in corresponding movement of the apparatus; and a base coupled to the body, the base including at least one engagement feature configured to mechanically engage a surface of a laboratory instrument article to releasably engage the laboratory instrument article to the apparatus.

[0092] Aspect 2: The device according to aspect 1, wherein the main body and the base are integrally formed as a single-piece structure.

[0093] Aspect 3: The device according to aspect 1, wherein the base is secured to the body by at least one fastener.

[0094] Aspect 4: The device according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the at least one engagement feature comprises a plurality of engagement features.

[0095] Aspect 5: The device according to aspect 4, wherein the plurality of engagement features are spaced apart along a transverse axis perpendicular to the vertical axis.

[0096] Aspect 6: The device according to aspect 5, wherein the plurality of engagement features include first and second plungers respectively biased to extend outward relative to first and second engagement axes perpendicular to the transverse axis.

[0097] Aspect 7: The device according to aspect 5, wherein the plurality of engagement features include first and second pillars.

[0098] Aspect 8: The device according to aspect 5, wherein the plurality of engagement features include first and second latching elements.

[0099] Aspect 9: The device according to aspect 6, wherein the first and second plungers are respectively spring-loaded to extend outward along the first and second engagement axes.

[0100] Aspect 10: The device according to aspect 5 or aspect 9, wherein the base includes first and second legs for receiving respective portions of the first and second plungers.

[0101] Aspect 11: The device according to aspect 10, wherein the base further includes at least one protrusion.

[0102] Aspect 12: The device according to aspect 11, wherein the at least one protrusion includes first and second protrusions, wherein the first protrusion is spaced apart from and aligned with the first leg relative to the first engagement axis, and wherein the second protrusion is spaced apart from and aligned with the second leg relative to the second engagement axis.

[0103] Aspect 13: The device according to aspect 11, wherein the at least one protrusion does not intersect the first or second engagement axis.

[0104] Aspect 14: The device according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the body defines a plurality of openings configured to receive a portion of a corresponding pipette structure of the pipette head.

[0105] Aspect 15: The device according to aspect 14, wherein the plurality of openings comprises a plurality of rows of openings, wherein the openings in each of the plurality of rows are spaced apart relative to a transverse axis perpendicular to the vertical axis.

[0106] Aspect 16: The device according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the device does not include a power supply.

[0107] Aspect 17: The device according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the device does not include an actuator.

[0108] Aspect 18: A system comprising: an apparatus according to any one of aspects 1 to 17; and a laboratory instrument article having at least one engagement feature, said at least one engagement feature being complementary to a corresponding engagement feature in said at least one engagement feature of the apparatus and configured to releasably mechanically engage said corresponding engagement feature.

[0109] Aspect 19: According to the system of aspect 18, the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article comprises a plurality of engagement features spaced apart relative to a transverse axis perpendicular to the vertical axis.

[0110] Aspect 20: The system according to aspect 18 or aspect 19, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one recess defined in the surface of the laboratory instrument article.

[0111] Aspect 21: According to the system of aspect 20, the at least one engagement feature of the device includes at least one plunger, each plunger having a head, the head of each plunger having a shape complementary to the shape of a corresponding recess in the at least one recess of the laboratory instrument article.

[0112] Aspect 22: According to the system of aspect 20, the at least one engagement feature of the device includes at least one support post, and each of the at least one recess includes a slot configured to receive a portion of the corresponding support post.

[0113] Aspect 23: The system according to aspect 18 or aspect 19, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the device includes at least one latching element, and wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes a surface configured to contact a corresponding latching element of the at least one latching element.

[0114] Aspect 24: The system according to any one of aspects 18 to 23, wherein the laboratory instrument article has at least one release feature, the at least one release feature being configured to releasably engage a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the device in response to translation of the device relative to the laboratory instrument article.

[0115] Aspect 25: According to the system of aspect 24, the at least one release feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one groove defined in the surface of the laboratory instrument article, wherein each of the at least one groove is spaced apart from a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

[0116] Aspect 26: According to the system of aspect 25, each of the at least one groove has a variable width, the variable width being increased in a certain direction such that when the device is translated at least partially in a direction relative to the laboratory instrument article, the engagement force between the at least one groove of the device and the at least one engagement feature is reduced.

[0117] Aspect 27: The system according to any one of Aspects 18 to 26, wherein the laboratory instrument article has opposing first and second outer surfaces, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one first engagement feature positioned along the first outer surface and at least one second engagement feature positioned along the second outer surface.

[0118] Aspect 28: The system according to aspect 27, wherein each of the at least one first engagement feature is aligned with a corresponding second engagement feature of the at least one second engagement feature relative to a respective engagement axis.

[0119] Aspect 29: The system according to aspect 28, wherein the at least one first engagement feature comprises a plurality of first engagement features, and wherein the at least one second engagement feature comprises a plurality of second engagement features.

[0120] Aspect 30: The system according to aspect 28 or aspect 29, wherein each of the at least one engagement feature of the device is configured to engage a corresponding first engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

[0121] Aspect 31: According to the system of aspect 30, the base of said device includes at least one leg, wherein each leg receives a portion of a corresponding engagement feature of said device.

[0122] Aspect 32: According to the system of aspect 31, the base further includes at least one protrusion, wherein each protrusion is spaced apart from and aligned with a corresponding leg of the device relative to a corresponding engagement axis.

[0123] Aspect 33: The system according to aspect 32, wherein the at least one protrusion does not intersect the engagement axis.

[0124] Aspect 34: The system according to aspect 32 or aspect 33, wherein each of the at least one protrusion defines an engagement surface configured to engage a corresponding second engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

[0125] Aspect 35: The system according to aspect 34, wherein the laboratory instrument article has a width relative to each respective engagement axis, and wherein at each respective engagement axis, the width of the laboratory instrument article is less than the interval between the protrusion aligned with the respective engagement axis and the leg of the device, thereby allowing the laboratory instrument article to be received between the protrusion and the leg of the device.

[0126] Aspect 36: The system according to any one of aspects 18 to 35, wherein the laboratory equipment item is an in-channel filter device.

[0127] Aspect 37: The system according to any one of aspects 18 to 35, wherein the laboratory apparatus article is an electrode device.

[0128] Aspect 38: The system according to any one of aspects 18 to 37 further includes a pipette tip, wherein the body of the device is configured to complementarily engage with the pipette tip such that movement of the pipette tip results in a corresponding movement of the device.

[0129] Aspect 39: A method comprising: engaging a device according to any one of aspects 1 to 17 using a pipette tip of a liquid handling system; positioning the device relative to a laboratory instrument article having at least one engagement feature complementary to a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the device, wherein the device is positioned relative to the laboratory instrument article such that at least one engagement feature of the device releasably engages a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article; and selectively moving the device and the laboratory instrument article using the pipette tip, provided that the device is releasably engaged with the laboratory instrument article.

[0130] Aspect 40: According to the method of aspect 39, wherein the pipette is translated relative to a translation axis to engage the device, and wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes a plurality of engagement features spaced apart relative to a transverse axis perpendicular to the translation axis.

[0131] Aspect 41: According to the method of aspect 39 or aspect 40, the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one recess defined in the surface of the laboratory instrument article.

[0132] Aspect 42: According to the method of aspect 41, the at least one engagement feature of the device includes at least one plunger, each plunger having a head, the head of each plunger having a shape complementary to the shape of a corresponding recess in the at least one recess of the laboratory instrument article.

[0133] Aspect 43: According to the method of aspect 41, the at least one engagement feature of the device includes at least one support post, and each of the at least one recess includes a slot for receiving a portion of the corresponding support post.

[0134] Aspect 44: The system according to aspect 39 or aspect 40, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the device includes at least one latching element, and wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes a surface that contacts a corresponding latching element of the at least one latching element.

[0135] Aspect 45: The method according to any one of aspects 39 to 44 further comprises: positioning the laboratory instrument article within a receiving seat that restricts movement of the laboratory instrument article using the pipette tip; and translating the device relative to the laboratory instrument article using the pipette tip, wherein the laboratory instrument article has at least one release feature that releasably engages a corresponding engagement feature of at least one engagement feature of the device in response to the translation of the device relative to the laboratory instrument article.

[0136] Aspect 46: According to the method of aspect 45, the at least one release feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one groove defined in the surface of the laboratory instrument article, wherein each of the at least one groove is spaced apart from a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

[0137] Aspect 47: The method according to aspect 46 further comprises: using the pipette tip to translate the device in a direction relative to the laboratory instrument article until the device disengages the laboratory instrument article, wherein each of the at least one groove has a variable width, the variable width being at least partially increased in the direction such that the engagement force between the at least one groove of the device and the at least one engagement feature is reduced when the device is at least partially translated in the direction relative to the laboratory instrument article.

[0138] Aspect 48: The method according to aspect 47 further includes: using the pipette tip to translate the device to apply force to the laboratory instrument article to ensure that the laboratory instrument article is fully contained within the receiving seat.

[0139] Aspect 49: The method according to any one of aspects 39 to 48, wherein the laboratory instrument article has opposing first and second outer surfaces, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one first engagement feature positioned along the first outer surface and at least one second engagement feature positioned along the second outer surface.

[0140] Aspect 50: According to the method of aspect 49, each of the at least one first engagement features is aligned with a corresponding second engagement feature of the at least one second engagement feature relative to a respective engagement axis.

[0141] Aspect 51: According to the method of aspect 50, wherein the at least one first engagement feature comprises a plurality of first engagement features, and wherein the at least one second engagement feature comprises a plurality of second engagement features.

[0142] Aspect 52: According to the method of aspect 50 or aspect 51, each of the at least one engagement feature of the device engages a corresponding first engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

[0143] Aspect 53: According to the method of aspect 52, the base of the device includes at least one leg, wherein each leg receives a portion of a corresponding engagement feature of the device.

[0144] Aspect 54: According to the method of aspect 53, the base further includes at least one protrusion.

[0145] Aspect 55: According to the method of aspect 54, the at least one protrusion includes first and second protrusions, wherein each protrusion is spaced apart from and aligned with a respective leg of the device relative to a respective engagement axis.

[0146] Aspect 56: According to the method of aspect 54, wherein the at least one protrusion does not intersect the engagement axis.

[0147] Aspect 57: The method according to any one of aspects 54 to 56, wherein each of the at least one protrusion defines an engagement surface of a corresponding second engagement feature engaging the laboratory instrument article.

[0148] Aspect 58: According to the method of aspect 57, wherein the laboratory instrument article has a width relative to each respective engagement axis, wherein at each respective engagement axis, the width of the laboratory instrument article is less than the interval between the protrusion aligned with the respective engagement axis and the leg of the device, and wherein the laboratory instrument article is received between the protrusion and the leg of the device.

[0149] Aspect 59: The method according to any one of aspects 39 to 58, wherein the laboratory equipment article is an in-channel filter device.

[0150] Aspect 60: The method according to any one of aspects 39 to 58, wherein the laboratory apparatus article is an electrode device.

[0151] Aspect 61: The device according to any one of aspects 1 to 17, wherein the base extends downward from the body.

[0152] Aspect 62: The system according to aspect 24, wherein the at least one release feature is configured to releasably engage a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the device in response to lateral translation of the device relative to the laboratory instrument article.

[0153] Aspect 63: According to the system of aspect 62, the at least one release feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one groove defined in the surface of the laboratory instrument article, wherein each of the at least one groove is laterally spaced from a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

[0154] Aspect 64: The system according to aspect 63, wherein each of the at least one groove has a variable width, the variable width being increased in an upward or at least partially upward direction such that when the device is translated relative to the laboratory instrument article in an upward or at least partially upward direction, the engagement force between the at least one groove of the device and the at least one engagement feature is reduced.

[0155] Aspect 65: The method according to any one of Aspects 39 to 60, wherein the pipette positions the device above the laboratory instrument article and lowers the device above the laboratory instrument article such that at least one engagement feature of the device releasably engages a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

[0156] Aspect 66: According to the method of aspect 65, wherein the pipette is translated downward or at least partially downward relative to a vertical axis to engage the device, and wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes a plurality of engagement features spaced apart relative to a transverse axis perpendicular to the vertical axis.

[0157] Aspect 67: The method according to aspect 45, wherein the laboratory apparatus article has at least one release feature, the at least one release feature releasably engaging a corresponding engagement feature of at least one engagement feature of the device in response to lateral translation of the device relative to the laboratory apparatus article.

[0158] Aspect 68: According to the method of aspect 67, the at least one release feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one groove defined in the surface of the laboratory instrument article, wherein each of the at least one groove is laterally spaced from a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

[0159] Aspect 69: The method according to aspect 68 further comprises: using the pipette tip to translate the device relative to the laboratory instrument article in an upward or at least partially upward direction until the device disengages the laboratory instrument article, wherein each of the at least one groove has a variable width, the variable width increasing in the upward or at least partially upward direction such that when the device is translated relative to the laboratory instrument article in the upward or at least partially upward direction, the engagement force between the at least one groove of the device and the at least one engagement feature is reduced.

[0160] Aspect 70: The method according to aspect 69 further includes: using the pipette tip to translate the device to apply a downward force to the laboratory instrument article to ensure that the laboratory instrument article is fully contained within the receiving seat.

[0161] While several embodiments of the invention have been disclosed in the foregoing description and the following appendix, those skilled in the art will understand that many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will conceive of in connection with the invention, taking advantage of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed above, and that many modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, although specific terms are used herein and in the appended claims, they are used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for the purpose of limiting the described invention or the appended claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for handling laboratory equipment, comprising: The main body is configured to complementarily engage with a pipette tip of a liquid handling system, such that movement of the pipette tip results in a corresponding movement of the device. as well as A base, which is connected to the body, the base including at least one engagement feature configured to mechanically engage the surface of a laboratory instrument article to releasably engage the laboratory instrument article to the device; Each of the at least one engagement feature is configured to engage a first engagement feature positioned along a first outer surface of the laboratory instrument article, or a second engagement feature positioned along a second outer surface of the laboratory instrument article.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the main body and the base are integrally formed as a single-piece structure.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the base is secured to the body by at least one fastener.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one engagement feature comprises a plurality of engagement features.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the plurality of engagement features are spaced apart along a transverse axis perpendicular to the vertical axis.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the plurality of engagement features include first and second plungers respectively biased to extend outward relative to first and second engagement axes perpendicular to the transverse axis.

7. The device of claim 5, wherein the plurality of engagement features include first and second pillars.

8. The device of claim 5, wherein the plurality of engagement features include first and second latching elements.

9. The device of claim 6, wherein the first and second plungers are each spring-loaded to extend outward along the first and second engagement axes.

10. The device of claim 6, wherein the base includes first and second legs for receiving respective portions of the first and second plungers.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the base further comprises at least one protrusion.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the at least one protrusion comprises first and second protrusions, wherein the first protrusion is spaced apart from and aligned with the first leg relative to the first engagement axis, and wherein the second protrusion is spaced apart from and aligned with the second leg relative to the second engagement axis.

13. The device of claim 11, wherein the at least one protrusion does not intersect the first or second engagement axis.

14. The device of claim 1, wherein the body defines a plurality of openings configured to receive a portion of a corresponding pipette structure of the pipette head.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the plurality of openings comprises a plurality of rows of openings, wherein the openings in each of the plurality of rows are spaced apart relative to a transverse axis perpendicular to the vertical axis.

16. The device of claim 1, wherein the device does not include a power supply.

17. The device of claim 1, wherein the device does not include an actuator.

18. A system for handling laboratory equipment, comprising: The device according to any one of claims 1 to 17; as well as Laboratory apparatus article having at least one engagement feature, said at least one engagement feature being complementary to a corresponding engagement feature in said at least one engagement feature of the device and configured to releasably mechanically engage said corresponding engagement feature; The laboratory instrument article has opposing first and second outer surfaces, and the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one first engagement feature positioned along the first outer surface and at least one second engagement feature positioned along the second outer surface.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article comprises a plurality of engagement features spaced apart relative to a transverse axis perpendicular to the vertical axis.

20. The system of claim 18, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one recess defined in the surface of the laboratory instrument article.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the device comprises at least one plunger, each plunger having a head, the head of each plunger having a shape complementary to the shape of a corresponding recess in the at least one recess of the laboratory instrument article.

22. The system of claim 20, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the device includes at least one support post, and each of the at least one recess includes a slot configured to receive a portion of the corresponding support post.

23. The system of claim 18, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the device includes at least one latching element, and wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes a surface configured to contact a corresponding latching element among the at least one latching element.

24. The system of claim 18, wherein the laboratory instrument article has at least one release feature, the at least one release feature being configured to releasably engage a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the device in response to translation of the device relative to the laboratory instrument article.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein the at least one release feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one groove defined in the surface of the laboratory instrument article, wherein each of the at least one groove is spaced apart from a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein each of the at least one groove has a variable width, the variable width being increased in a certain direction such that the engagement force between the at least one groove and the at least one engagement feature of the device is reduced when the device is translated at least partially in a direction relative to the laboratory instrument article.

27. The system of claim 18, wherein each of the at least one first engagement feature is aligned with a corresponding second engagement feature of the at least one second engagement feature relative to a respective engagement axis.

28. The system of claim 27, wherein the at least one first engagement feature comprises a plurality of first engagement features, and wherein the at least one second engagement feature comprises a plurality of second engagement features.

29. The system of claim 27, wherein each of the at least one engagement feature of the device is configured to engage a corresponding first engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

30. The system of claim 29, wherein the base of the device includes at least one leg, wherein each leg receives a portion of a corresponding engagement feature of the device.

31. The system of claim 30, wherein the base further comprises at least one protrusion, wherein each protrusion is spaced apart from and aligned with a corresponding leg of the device relative to a corresponding engagement axis.

32. The system of claim 31, wherein the at least one protrusion does not intersect the engagement axis.

33. The system of claim 31, wherein each of the at least one protrusion defines an engagement surface configured to engage a corresponding second engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

34. The system of claim 33, wherein the laboratory instrument article has a width relative to each respective engagement axis, and wherein at each respective engagement axis, the width of the laboratory instrument article is less than the spacing between the protrusion aligned with the respective engagement axis and the leg of the device, thereby allowing the laboratory instrument article to be received between the protrusion and the leg of the device.

35. The system of claim 18, wherein the laboratory equipment is an in-channel filter device.

36. The system of claim 18, wherein the laboratory equipment item is an electrode device.

37. The system of claim 18, further comprising a pipette tip, wherein the body of the device is configured to complementarily engage with the pipette tip such that movement of the pipette tip results in a corresponding movement of the device.

38. A method for handling laboratory equipment, comprising: Use a pipette tip from a liquid handling system to engage the device according to any one of claims 1 to 17; The device is positioned relative to a laboratory instrument article having at least one engagement feature that is complementary to a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the device, wherein the device is positioned relative to the laboratory instrument article such that at least one engagement feature of the device releasably engages a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article. as well as With the device releasably engaged with the laboratory instrument or article, the pipette tip is used to selectively move the device and the laboratory instrument or article; The laboratory instrument article has opposing first and second outer surfaces, and the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one first engagement feature positioned along the first outer surface and at least one second engagement feature positioned along the second outer surface.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein the pipette is translated relative to a translation axis to engage the device, and wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article comprises a plurality of engagement features spaced apart relative to a lateral axis perpendicular to the translation axis.

40. The method of claim 38, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one recess defined in the surface of the laboratory instrument article.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the device comprises at least one plunger, each plunger having a head, the head of each plunger having a shape complementary to the shape of a corresponding recess in the at least one recess of the laboratory instrument article.

42. The method of claim 40, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the device comprises at least one support post, and each of the at least one recess comprises a slot for receiving a portion of the corresponding support post.

43. The system of claim 38, wherein the at least one engagement feature of the device includes at least one latching element, and wherein the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article includes a surface that contacts a corresponding latching element of the at least one latching element.

44. The method of claim 38, further comprising: The pipette tip is used to position the laboratory equipment within a receiving seat that restricts the movement of the laboratory equipment. as well as The device is translated relative to the laboratory instrument article using the pipette tip, wherein the laboratory instrument article has at least one release feature that releasably engages a corresponding engagement feature of at least one engagement feature of the device in response to the translation of the device relative to the laboratory instrument article.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein the at least one release feature of the laboratory instrument article includes at least one groove defined in the surface of the laboratory instrument article, wherein each of the at least one groove is spaced apart from a corresponding engagement feature of the at least one engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

46. ​​The method of claim 45, further comprising: Using the pipette tip, the device is translated in a direction relative to the laboratory instrument article until the device disengages the laboratory instrument article, wherein each of the at least one groove has a variable width, the variable width being at least partially increased in the direction such that the engagement force between the at least one groove of the device and the at least one engagement feature is reduced when the device is at least partially translated in the direction relative to the laboratory instrument article.

47. The method of claim 46, further comprising: Use the pipette tip to move the device to apply force to the laboratory equipment to ensure that the laboratory equipment is fully contained within the receiving seat.

48. The method of claim 38, wherein each of the at least one first engagement feature is aligned with a corresponding second engagement feature of the at least one second engagement feature relative to a respective engagement axis.

49. The method of claim 48, wherein the at least one first engagement feature comprises a plurality of first engagement features, and wherein the at least one second engagement feature comprises a plurality of second engagement features.

50. The method of claim 48, wherein each of the at least one engagement feature of the device engages a corresponding first engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein the base of the device includes at least one leg, wherein each leg receives a portion of a corresponding engagement feature of the device.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein the base further comprises at least one protrusion.

53. The method of claim 52, wherein the at least one protrusion comprises first and second protrusions, wherein each protrusion is spaced apart from and aligned with a respective leg of the device relative to a respective engagement axis.

54. The method of claim 52, wherein the at least one protrusion does not intersect the engagement axis.

55. The method of claim 52, wherein each of the at least one protrusion defines an engagement surface for engaging a corresponding second engagement feature of the laboratory instrument article.

56. The method of claim 55, wherein the laboratory instrument article has a width relative to each respective engagement axis, wherein at each respective engagement axis, the width of the laboratory instrument article is less than the interval between the protrusion aligned with the respective engagement axis and the leg of the device, and wherein the laboratory instrument article is received between the protrusion and the leg of the device.

57. The method of claim 38, wherein the laboratory equipment is an in-passage filter device.

58. The method of claim 38, wherein the laboratory instrument is an electrode device.

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