Transport apparatus, transfer system, pipetting system, and pipette carrier insertion method

Abstract

The invention relates to a transfer apparatus, a transfer system, a pipetting system, and a pipette carrier insertion method. A transfer apparatus (40) for introducing a pipette carrier (41) into a pipetting device (42) comprises a comb-like structure (43) having an elongate base (44) and a plurality of teeth (45, 46) arranged perpendicular thereto, where the teeth are arranged parallel and equidistant with respect to one another and comprising two outer teeth (45) and a plurality of inner teeth (46) arranged between the outer teeth (45), where the inner teeth (46) and the outer teeth (45) are spaced apart from one another. The elongated base (44) and the two external teeth (45) are embodied in the form of a three-sided frame (47), and at least one retaining element (48) arranged on the frame (47) and embodied such that the pipette carrier (41) can be locked in the transport device (40) along at least one axis. Furthermore, the invention relates to a transfer system (55), a pipetting system (80) and a method for inserting a pipette carrier (41) into a transfer device (40).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a conveying device for inserting a pipette carrier filled with a pipette tip into an automated pipetting machine, a conveying system comprising the conveying device and the pipette carrier, a method for inserting a pipette carrier into a conveying device, and a pipetting system comprising the conveying system and an automated pipetting machine. The pipette tip has a distal end region and a proximal end region with a collar. BACKGROUND

[0002] Recurring tasks in laboratories are increasingly taken over by automated laboratory devices. In particular for biochemical analyses in the chemical and pharmaceutical sector, it is desirable for systems to automatically process liquid samples. Therefore, so-called liquid handling systems are used for preparing samples and / or for analyzing prepared samples. Such laboratory devices are also known under terms such as pipetting robots and pipetting and analysis devices. Tasks performed by these pipetting devices include, among others, supplying and removing defined volumes of liquid from laboratory elements in order to, for example, initiate a chemical reaction by supplying a reagent, and preparing samples for subsequent measurements in an analysis device, such as, for example, preparation in the form of a dried sample. Analysis devices include all devices that determine at least one chemical and / or physical characteristic of a sample, examples being devices for spectroscopy and spectrometry, as well as pH and conductivity probes and other devices.

[0003] Corresponding automated pipetting devices comprise at least one pipette, usually a plurality of pipettes which are often arranged in a pipetting head, sometimes a replaceable pipetting head. Simple automated pipetting devices or dosing devices only issue defined amounts of liquid, while in larger automated pipetting devices, the pipetting head can be moved in two or three spatial directions. More complex automated pipetting devices often take over additional tasks, such as the transport and handling of laboratory elements, as well as the mixing and incubation of samples.

[0004] Pipettes are used to take up and release defined volumes of liquid. Usually, pipettes are embodied such that the liquid does not reach the interior of the pipette. Instead, a pipette tip is placed on the end region of the pipette, and the liquid is accommodated in the pipette tip. In the case of a manual pipette with only one pipetting channel, the defined volume of liquid taken up and released into and from the pipette tip is controlled by applying appropriate negative or positive pressure, the end region of the pipette is usually conical or shaft-shaped. In this case, the pipette tip is connected to the end region of the pipette by force interlocking, for example friction interlocking, and is additionally fixed in part by a sealing element, for example an O-ring.

[0005] Multi-channel pipetting devices enable the simultaneous processing of multiple volumes. Instead of a single pipetting channel, these have several or many pipetting channels. Such multi-channel pipetting devices are known from DE 20 2008 013 533 U1. In this case, a defined quantity of liquid can be moved simultaneously for, for example, 4 to 384 samples. The pipetting channels are arranged in a base plate. As an alternative to the mounting of the pipette tips on the conical or shaft-shaped end region of the pipette in the case of a multi-channel pipette, a sealing plate having elastic properties is usually applied. With a defined force, the pipette tips are pressed against the sealing plate. The sealing plate terminates the base plate and guides the pipetting channels like the base plate. The active pressing of the pipette tips against the sealing plate ensures that, when a negative pressure is applied, a defined volume of liquid is drawn into the pipette tips and held there until the liquid is released. In the case of a plurality of used pipetting channels and a corresponding plurality of pipette tips, it is ensured that each pipette tip is sealed by means of the sealing plate.

[0006] The pipette tips are usually provided in so-called magazines. The magazines are usually planar, curved, rigid plates with channels in which the pipette tips are accommodated. Such magazines filled with pipette tips are then moved in the direction of the sealing plate so that the pipette tips are pressed against the sealing plate. Ideally, in this case, the longitudinal axis of the pipette tips is arranged parallel to the cross-sectional plane of the sealing plate in order to achieve the best sealing of the pipette tips. Such magazines are disclosed, for example, in DE 20 2020 100 836 U1.

[0007] Usually, the magazines are used only once and then disposed of, which means a high material consumption and costs. SUMMARY

[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a conveying device, a conveying system and a pipetting system which saves material compared to conventional solutions.

[0009] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a conveying device, a conveying system, a method and a pipetting system.

[0010] With regard to the conveying device, the object is achieved according to the invention by a conveying device for inserting a pipette carrier into a pipetting device, the conveying device comprising:

[0011] a comb structure having an elongated base and a plurality of teeth arranged perpendicular to the elongated base, wherein the teeth are arranged parallel and equidistantly relative to each other and comprise two outer teeth and a plurality of inner teeth arranged between the outer teeth, and

[0012] at least one holding element arranged on the frame and embodied such that the pipette carrier is lockable in the conveying device along at least one axis.

[0013] The transfer device can be reused, whereas the pipette carriers, for example single-plate supports or double-plate supports, are usually used only once. Instead of disposing of the complete loader, only the pipette carriers need to be disposed of, whereas the transfer device can be reused. In this way, material and costs are saved. The transfer device can be manufactured by an injection-molding method and, for example, be made of plastic. The transfer device can also be made of metal or a metal alloy or comprise at least one metal. The transfer device can be embodied as a single piece. In particular, the comb structure is connected to the frame and the holding elements by a continuous material. The inner toothing can be embodied as holding the pipette carriers.

[0014] According to the application, the transfer device comprises at least one holding element, by means of which the pipette carriers can be locked in the transfer device. The locking prevents the pipette carriers from slipping in the transfer device, in particular during the transfer or during the insertion of the transfer device into the pipetting apparatus. The holding elements are preferably oriented in the direction of the comb structure. The comb structure can have an upper edge and a lower edge. Preferably, the at least one holding element is arranged at the upper edge.

[0015] In one embodiment, the at least one holding element is a gutter, a recess, a protrusion and / or a notch.

[0016] In particular, the at least one holding element is embodied as a radial segment or a circular segment.

[0017] In an alternative embodiment, the at least one holding element comprises a spring, a magnet and / or a rotating element.

[0018] In a further development, the transfer device comprises a handle arranged on the elongate base. The handle is in particular for holding the transfer device by an operator or a robot.

[0019] Preferably, the handle comprises a centering element, in particular an opening, which is embodied such that the transfer device can be moved by an automated apparatus. For example, a robot can engage in the centering element in order to hold and transport the transfer device.

[0020] In one embodiment, the frame comprises a frame recess which is located in the region of the elongate base and is arranged in particular centrally on the elongate base.

[0021] Preferably, the frame recess is embodied such that the frame is lowered to the height of the handle by the frame recess. Preferably, the frame recess extends essentially over the width of the handle. In particular, the frame recess can match a gripping portion or a gripping element of the pipette carrier, in particular of a single plate support or a double plate support. The frame recess can be embodied such that a gripping element or a gripping portion of the pipette carrier is insertable into the frame recess. Thus, an operator or a robot can grip the gripping element or the gripping portion in the frame recess and release the locking of the pipette carrier in the transport device by applying a force in the direction of the lower edge of the comb structure and thus remove the pipette carrier from the transport device.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the frame comprises at least two orientation elements which are embodied such that the transport device is insertable into the pipetting device by means of an automated device. The orientation elements serve to guide the transport device into the pipetting device.

[0023] In a further development, the frame comprises at least one peripheral guide groove. The at least one guide groove supports the insertion of the pipette carrier into the transport device, since the pipette carrier is guided in the guide groove. The at least one guide groove can be arranged at the upper edge or at the lower edge of the comb structure. For example, the lower plate and / or the upper plate of a double plate support can engage in the at least one guide groove.

[0024] In one embodiment, the frame comprises at least one stop surface which is arranged at least along the elongated base and which is arranged at the same height of the frame as the upper edge of the inner teeth or between the teeth. In particular, the stop surface arranged at the same height of the frame as the upper edge of the inner teeth can extend around the frame. The stop surface serves to guide the pipette carrier when introduced into the transport device.

[0025] In one embodiment, the frame comprises a gripping element, such as, for example, a flange, an edge or a surface, by means of which a force is exerted on the transport device, in particular in the direction of the upper edge of the comb structure. The pipetting device can exert a force on the transport device by means of the gripping element in order to seal the pipette tip against the sealing plate.

[0026] Preferably, the inner teeth have an engagement element, in particular an edge or a flange, at one of the ends away from the elongated base, by means of which a force is exerted on the transport device. The flange or edge serves to exert a force on the transport device, in particular by means of the pipetting device. The force is in particular exerted from the lower edge of the comb structure in the direction of its upper edge. The engagement element is of particular importance in combination with a single plate support which usually does not have an application point for exerting a force. Preferably, by means of the engagement element and the gripping element of the transport device, a force for sealing the pipette tip in the pipetting device occurs.

[0027] In one embodiment, the inner teeth have a conical cross-section which tapers in the direction of the upper edge. The conical cross-section which tapers serves to better transmit forces from the pipetting device to the transfer device. In this way, forces which are exerted from the lower edge of the comb structure to the upper edge of the comb structure can advantageously be transmitted to the upper edge of the comb structure, so that the collar of the pipette tip is reliably sealed on the sealing plate of the pipetting device.

[0028] In a further development, the conical cross-section is produced such that the conical cross-section and the outer diameter of the pipette tip match one another over the entire height of the inner teeth. In this embodiment, the loss of force when forces are transmitted from the pipetting device to the transfer device is minimized.

[0029] In a further embodiment, at least one inner tooth has a greater length than at least one other inner tooth. By means of the at least one inner tooth which has a greater length, it is achieved that the pipette carrier is introduced into the transfer device, in particular that the pipette carrier and the pipette tip in the pipette carrier are facilitated to pass between the inner teeth.

[0030] In one embodiment, the inner teeth gradually lengthen from the outer teeth to the middle of the comb structure.

[0031] In a further embodiment, one or both inner teeth in the middle of the comb structure are shorter than the teeth which surround them.

[0032] In a further development, one or both inner teeth are longer than the remaining inner teeth.

[0033] In a further embodiment, the inner teeth have a height which decreases on the lower edge, so that the height of the inner teeth gradually decreases from the elongate base to the end of the inner teeth which is remote from the elongate base. By means of the decrease in the height of the inner teeth, it is possible to optimize the geometry of the transfer device when the pipette carrier is inserted into the transfer device. In particular, errors in the manufacturing tolerances of the pipette carrier are compensated by means of the decrease in the height.

[0034] In one embodiment, the height of the inner teeth on the lower edge is decreased such that, when a force is applied on the inner teeth, the inner teeth are at most deformed to the extent that the lower edge of the inner teeth approaches or reaches a horizontal position.

[0035] In a further embodiment, the height of the inner teeth is decreased such that the height of the inner teeth decreases by an angle of between 0.05° and 3°.

[0036] With regard to the transfer system, the object is achieved by a transfer system according to the invention, which comprises

[0037] - a transfer device according to one of the preceding embodiments, and

[0038] - a pipette carrier which has at least one locking element which is embodied as a corresponding holding element,

[0039] The pipette carrier can be inserted into the transport device and locked in the transport device by means of at least one locking element and at least one holding element.

[0040] The pipette carrier comprises at least one plate having a plurality of channels or openings for holding pipette tips. The channels or openings can be embodied to hold the pipette tips. The at least one locking element can be attached to the plate. The pipette carrier can be embodied as a double plate support or as a single plate support. The at least one holding element and the at least one locking element can be embodied in such a way that the locking of the pipette carrier and the transport device is achieved by means of a form-locking or a pin assembly. The pipette carrier can be inserted into the transport device. The pipette carrier can be inserted into the transport device by means of internal toothing. In particular, the internal toothing is guided into the pipette carrier between the pipette tips of the pipette carrier.

[0041] The transport system can comprise a plurality of pipette tips which are introduced into the pipette carrier. Optionally, the transport system can comprise a support system or a support device in addition to the transport device.

[0042] It is provided according to an embodiment that the pipette carrier is a double plate support and the distance between the struts is embodied in such a way that the transport device can be engaged between the struts by means of internal toothing and hold the double plate support.

[0043] It is provided according to an alternative embodiment that the pipette carrier is a single plate support and the distance between the orientation elements is embodied in such a way that the transport device can be engaged between the orientation elements by means of internal toothing and hold the single plate support.

[0044] With regard to the method, the object is achieved by a method for inserting a pipette carrier into a transport device of a transport system according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

[0045] - inserting the pipette carrier into the transport device;

[0046] - locking the pipette carrier in the transport device by exerting a first force on the pipette carrier in the direction of the elongated base until the at least one holding element engages with the at least one locking element.

[0047] The method of the present invention describes a simple method for inserting a pipette carrier into a transport device. The pipette carrier is in particular inserted into the comb structure of the transport device. The pipette carrier can be located at least on the internal toothing. During the insertion of the pipette carrier, the insertion can be guided at least by means of the internal toothing. At least one stop surface and / or at least one guide groove of the transport device can support the guiding of the pipette carrier into the transport device. In particular, a first force is exerted in the direction from the internal toothing to the elongated base.

[0048] In one embodiment, the method further comprises the steps of:

[0049] - applying a second force to the pipette carrier in the direction of the lower edge of the comb structure, such that the locking between the at least one holding element and the at least one locking element is released; and

[0050] - withdrawing the pipette carrier from the transport device.

[0051] This embodiment describes how the pipette carrier can be removed from the transport system or transport device in a simple manner. The second force is in particular applied from the upper edge of the comb structure in the direction of its lower edge. After the locking is released, the pipette carrier can be pulled out or removed from the transport device.

[0052] With regard to a pipetting system, this object is achieved by a pipetting system according to the invention.

[0053] - a transport system according to one of the preceding embodiments, and

[0054] - a pipetting device having a pipetting head with a sealing plate and a plurality of pipetting channels for aspirating and discharging a liquid into and from the pipetting head, wherein the pipetting channels are guided through the sealing plate.

[0055] wherein the transport system can be introduced into the pipetting device, and wherein the pipetting device is adapted to exert a force on the transport device such that the pipetting head arranged in the pipette carrier is sealed against the sealing plate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0056] The application will now be explained in more detail on the basis of the drawings, in which Figures 1-33 is shown as follows:

[0057] Figures 1-3 is a first embodiment of a double plate support of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 4 is a second embodiment of a double plate support of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 5 is a plan view of an upper plate of a double plate support of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 6 is a detail view of Figure 5

[0061] Figures 7-8 is an embodiment of a support system of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a support system of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 10 ​is another embodiment of the double board support of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 11 is another embodiment of the support system of the present invention.

[0065] Figures 12-13 is an embodiment of the single board support of the present invention.

[0066] Figures 14-15 two other embodiments of the single board support of the present invention are shown.

[0067] Figures 16-17 is an embodiment of the support device of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 18 is a first embodiment of the transfer apparatus of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 19 is a second embodiment of the transfer apparatus of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 20 is a first embodiment of the transfer system of the present invention.

[0071] Figures 21a-22 is a third embodiment of the transfer apparatus of the present invention.

[0072] Figures 23a-23c is a fourth embodiment of the transfer apparatus of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 24 is a fifth embodiment of the transfer apparatus of the present invention.

[0074] Figures 25-27 is an embodiment of the transfer system of the present invention with a single board support.

[0075] Figures 28-29 another embodiment of the transfer system of the present invention with a single board support is shown.

[0076] Figures 30-31 is an embodiment of the transfer system of the present invention with a double board support.

[0077] Figures 32-33 are two embodiments of the pipetting system of the present invention.

[0078] The embodiments of the different devices and apparatuses described in the drawings are combinable with each other to the desired extent. This applies in particular to the examples of the transfer apparatus of the present invention, many embodiments of which are shown on the basis of several figures and whose embodiments can be combined to the desired extent. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0079] Figures 1-3A double plate support 1 in different views is shown by way of example. The double plate support 1 comprises an upper plate 3 and a lower plate 4, which are arranged substantially parallel to each other and are embodied in particular to be resistant to bending. The upper plate 3 comprises a plurality of first channels 5 and the lower plate 4 comprises a plurality of second channels 6. The first channels 5 and the second channels 6 are embodied and arranged in such a way that they are aligned with each other. In particular, the first channels 5 and the second channels 6 are aligned with each other in such a way that the center of a first channel 5 and the center of an aligned second channel 6 are arranged on a shared transverse axis la of the double plate support. In the sense of the invention, a plurality of components means that there are two or more components. Preferably, the number of first channels 5 is equal to the number of second channels 6. The number of first channels 5 and second channels 6 can be equal to the number of typical formats of microtiter plates and follows the established ANSI-SLAS standard. For example, the double plate support can have 96 or 384 first channels 5 and 96 or 384 second channels 6. Alternative forms of embodiment of the double plate support 1 and in particular the diameter of the first channels 5 and the second channels 6 are shown in Figure 10 . The first channels 5 and the second channels 6 can be embodied circularly, however, can also have other forms, such as for example as shown in Figure 6 . The diameter of the first channels 5 and the second channels 6 can be identical; however, generally the diameter of the first channels 5 and the second channels 6 deviate from each other in such a way that the diameter of the first channels 5 is greater than the diameter of the second channels 6. This follows the common shape of a pipette tip that tapers conically from the collar 2c to the distal region 2a. The upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 are connected together by means of a side wall 7, which in each case is arranged along a first long side 3a, 4a of the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4. The side wall 7 can extend over the entire length of the first long side 3a or only over one or more sections of the first long side 3a.

[0080] In order to guarantee the stability of the double plate support 1, in addition, a plurality of struts 8 is provided between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 and connects the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 to each other. The struts 8 can be cylindrical, prismatic or conical, wherein other embodiments are also possible. The struts 8 can be arranged between a center 3b of the upper plate 3 and a second long side 3c of the upper plate 3 opposite the first long side 3a. The struts 8 can be arranged between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern. In particular, the struts 8 can be arranged equidistantly with respect to each other and / or on an axis parallel to the first long side 3a of the upper plate 3. The distance between the struts 8 can be chosen in such a way that, in particular after filling the double plate support 1 with pipette tips 2, the transfer device 40 can fit between the struts 8 and in particular between the pipette tips 2 and hold the double plate support 1 (compare Figures 30-31 ).

[0081] For simple and material-reduced embodiments of the double-plate support 1, material-reduced portions 12 can be designed into the lower plate 4 and / or the upper plate 3. The material-reduced portions 12 are intended in particular to reduce the material usage of the lower plate 4 and / or the upper plate 3. The material-reduced portions 12 can be embodied, for example, as recesses, holes or openings. In this case, the material-reduced portions 12 are arranged between the second channels 6 and / or the first channels 5. In particular, the material-reduced portions 12 are not aligned with the first channels 5 or the second channels 6. In Figures 1 to 4 In the example shown, the material-reduced portions 12 are embodied as third channels of the lower plate 4.

[0082] The side walls 7 can have further functions in addition to connecting the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4. Thus, the side walls 7 can have one or more gripping elements 13 arranged on the side of the side walls 7 remote from the struts 8 and embodied such that the double-plate support 1 is holdable by means of the one or more gripping elements 13 with an automated device. In particular, the one or more gripping elements 13 are embodied as object holders. Figures 2-3 Three gripping elements 13 are shown by way of example, wherein the middle gripping element is a flat plate and the two outer gripping elements are object holders as embodied channels. Such gripping elements 13 can be easily gripped with conventional robots, in particular Cartesian robots, such that the double-plate support 1 is holdable and transportable by means of the gripping elements 13 using an automated device.

[0083] Furthermore, the side walls 7 can have a code region 15 with at least one code element 16 on the basis of which the double-plate support 1 is identifiable. For example, it can be detected by means of the at least one code element 16 how many first and second channels 5, 6 the double-plate support 1 has. The at least one code element 16 can be, for example, a QR code, a bar code, an RFID tag or some other writing. Additionally, the side walls 7 can have at least one force input element 14, such as, for example, an edge, a protrusion, a flange and / or a surface, by means of which a force is exerted on the double-plate support 1. The force can be exerted in particular by the pipetting device after the double-plate support 1 has been placed in the pipetting device. The force can serve to press the double-plate support 1 against a sealing plate of the pipetting device in order to seal the pipette tip 2 against the sealing plate. The force is exerted in particular on the force input element 14 in the direction from the lower plate 4 to the upper plate 3.

[0084] In order to prevent the double-plate support 1 from tilting in the pipetting device 42 with an incompletely filled pipette tip 2, at least one spacer 11 can be arranged on the side of the upper plate 3 remote from the lower plate 4. The at least one spacer 11 can be cylindrical, conical or prismatic. Preferably, the upper plate 3 has a plurality of spacers 11, such as, for example, shown in Figure 4 .

[0085] Figure 5 A plan view of the upper plate 3 of the double plate support 1 of the present invention is shown. Visible within the first channel 5 is the second channel 6 in the lower plate 4, which in this example has a smaller diameter than the first channel 5. The first channel 5 can be implemented such that the border 9 (shown in dashed lines) of the first channel 5 serves as a support surface for the collar 2c of the inserted pipette tip 2. Alternatively, the upper plate 3 can have a plurality of support elements which serve as support surfaces for the collar 2c of the pipette tip 2. An example of such support elements 26 using the example of the single plate support 20 is shown in Figure 13 and can also be used in the case of the double plate support 1. The first channel 5 and / or the second channel 6 can be implemented circular or have at least two radial segments 10. Figure 6 This embodiment is shown in detail. Preferably, the first channel 5 and / or the second channel 6 have two or four radial segments 10. In particular, the first channel 5 and the second channel 6 are implemented such that a pipette tip which is introduced into the first channel 5 and the second channel 6 is held in a predetermined position in the first channel 5 and the second channel 6. Arranged on the upper plate 3 and / or the lower plate 4 can be at least one locking element 30. An example of such a locking element is shown in Figure 12 ; the illustrated locking element 30 also applies to the double plate support. Preferably, the at least one locking element 30 is arranged on the upper plate 3, in particular on the lateral edge of the upper plate 3. In this way, the at least one locking element can be locked with at least one holding element 48 of a transport device, such as for example shown in Figure 18 or Figure 19 .

[0086] Figures 7-9 A support system 17 of the present invention is shown. The support system 17 comprises a double plate support 1 and a plurality of pipette tips 2 having a distal end region 2a, a proximal end region 2b and a collar 2c and introduced into the first channel 5 and the second channel 6, such as shown in Figure 8 . Figure 7 The support system 17 is shown in an exploded view. Figure 9 A cross section through the support system 17 is shown. The first channel 5 and the second channel 6 can be implemented such that the pipette tips 2 are oriented along a lateral axis 1a of the double plate support 1. The lateral axis 1a of the double plate support 1 is in particular transverse to the first long side 3a, 4a of the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4. The number of pipette tips 2 can be equal to or smaller than the number of first channels 5.

[0087] Figure 10 Another embodiment of the double plate support 1 is shown. In this variant, the first channel 5 and the second channel 6 are dimensioned smaller than in the preceding embodiments. Accordingly, the double plate support 1 can hold significantly more pipette tips. Figure 11 The useFigure 10 Another embodiment of the inventive support system 17 of the double plate support 1 of

[0088] Figure 12 and Figure 13 A single plate support 20 of the invention is shown schematically. The single plate support 20 comprises a plate 21 having an upper edge 31, a lower edge 32 and a plurality of openings 22. Figure 12 A view of the lower edge 32 is shown, while Figure 13 A view of the upper edge 31 is shown. The plate 21 is in particular implemented to be resistant to bending. The openings 22 are in particular passages. In each case, the openings 22 can be implemented to hold a pipette tip. The number of openings 22 can match the number of typical formats of microtiter plates and follow the established ANSI-SLAS standard. For example, the single plate support can have 96 or 384 openings 22. A plurality of orientation elements 23 is arranged on the lower edge 32 of the plate 21, the orientation elements 23 at least partially surrounding the openings 22. The orientation elements 23 can at least partially surround the openings 22, in particular along a periphery or edge of the openings 22. The orientation elements 23 are in particular implemented to orient the pipette tips 2 placed in the openings 22 along a transverse axis 20a of the single plate support 20. The transverse axis 20a of the single plate support 20 is in particular transverse to the plate 21. The openings 22 and / or the orientation elements 23 can be implemented cylindrically or conically or have at least two radial segments 24. The at least two radial segments 24 can be arranged point-symmetrically or mirror-symmetrically. In Figure 12 In the example of the orientation elements 23, in each case two radial segments 24 are implemented. It is also possible to use for example three, four or more radial segments as orientation elements 23. Possible embodiments of the openings 22 can be taken from Figure 6 ; in Figure 6 the first passages 5 correspond to the openings 22. Arranged on the surface of the orientation elements 23 distal to the openings 22 can be reinforcing elements 34, such as for example ribs. The distance between the orientation elements 23 can be chosen such that, in particular after filling the single plate support 20 with pipette tips 2, the transfer device 40 can extend between the orientation elements and in particular between the pipette tips 2 and hold the single plate support 20 (compare Figures 25-27 ).

[0089] Furthermore, arranged on the upper edge 31 can be a plurality of bearing elements 26, which in each case serve as a support surface for the collar 2c of one of the pipette tips 2 arranged in the openings 22. The bearing elements 26 can be implemented cylindrically or have at least two, in particular point-symmetrically or mirror-symmetrically arranged radial segments 24. By means of the bearing elements 26, it can be prevented that the pipette tips 2 lie directly on the plate, whereupon the plate has to be built more strongly. The bearing elements 26 are in particular at least partially surrounding the openings 22.

[0090] The single board support 20 can have at least one gripping portion 27, which is arranged in particular on a long edge 21a of the board 21. Preferably, the single board support 20 has two gripping portions, which are arranged on each long edge of the board 21, such as Figure 12 The at least one gripping portion 27 can have an identification area 28 with at least one identification element 29, based on which the single board support 20 is identifiable. The at least one identification element 29 can be, for example, a QR code, a barcode, an RFID tag or other writing.

[0091] The board 21 can have at least one locking element 30, which is arranged in particular on a transverse edge 21b of the board 21. The at least one locking element 30 serves to lock the single board support 20 in the conveying device 40 along at least one axis. The at least one locking element 30 can be embodied as a catch, a notch, a cavity and / or a flange. Figure 12 and Figure 13 Two different locking elements 30 are shown. Thus, arranged at each end of the transverse edge 21b of the board 21 are catches 30a, and in the center of the transverse edge 21b is a notch 30b formed by two protrusions. The two catches 30a serve in particular to lock the single board support 20 in the plane of the board 21, while the notch serves to lock the single board support 20 transversely to the board 21.

[0092] Figure 14 and Figure 15 Two further embodiments of the single board support 20 of the invention are shown. As Figure 14 shown, the single board support 20 can have a plurality of material reducers 36 on the board 21, for example in the form of recesses or holes. The plurality of material reducers 36 is arranged between the openings 22. As Figure 15 shown, the single board support 20 can have at least one spacer 35 on the upper edge of the board 21. The at least one spacer 35 is arranged in particular between the openings 22.

[0093] Figure 16 and Figure 17 A support device 33 of the invention is shown, which comprises a single board support 20 and a plurality of pipette tips 2 placed in the openings 22. Figure 16 The support device 33 is shown in an exploded view. The orientation elements 23 can be embodied to orient the pipette tips 2 in the openings 22, in particular to orient them along the transverse axis 20a of the single board support 20. The number of pipette tips 2 can be equal to or less than the number of openings 22.

[0094] Figure 18A first embodiment of a transport device 40 of the present application is shown. The transport device 40 has a comb structure 43 with an elongated base 44 and a plurality of vertically arranged teeth 45, 46, which extend parallel and equidistant with respect to each other. The teeth 45, 46 comprise two outer teeth 45, which form a three-sided frame 47 together with the elongated base 44. Arranged between the outer teeth 45 are a plurality of inner teeth 46. The inner teeth 46 can be used to hold a pipette carrier 41. The comb structure 43 can have an upper edge 57 and a lower edge 58. In addition, the transport device 40 can have at least one holding element 48 arranged on the frame 47 and embodied such that the pipette carrier 41 can be locked in the transport device 40 along at least one axis. The at least one holding element 48 is in particular embodied as a eave, a recess, a protrusion and / or a notch. In Figure 18 Shown in the middle are two types of holding elements 48: a eave 48a and a notch 48b. The eave 48a is used to lock the pipette carrier 41 in the transport device 40 along an axis transverse to the frame 47, while the notch 48b is used to lock the pipette carrier 41 in the plane of the frame 47. The at least one holding element 48 can be embodied as a radial segment or a circular segment. For example, the eave 48b is embodied as a circular segment. Alternatively, the at least one holding element 48 can have a spring, a magnet and / or a rotating element. Figure 19 Shown is a holding element 48 embodied as a radial segment 48c.

[0095] The transport device 40 can have a handle 50 arranged on the elongated base 44 and in particular having a centering element 51 embodied such that the transport device 40 can be moved using an automation. Figure 18 Shown is the centering element 51 embodied as an opening as an example. By means of the centering element 51, a robot can grasp and move the transport device 40. Furthermore, an operator can hold and transport the transport device 40 by means of the handle 50.

[0096] The frame 47 can have a frame recess 49 in the area of the elongated base 44, in particular arranged centrally on the elongated base 44. The frame recess 49 can be embodied such that it drops to the height of the handle 50. The frame can also have at least one stop surface 54 arranged at least along the elongated base 44 and arranged at the same height as the upper edge of the inner teeth 46 or between the teeth 45, 46 of the frame 47. The stop surface 54 is used to receive the pipette carrier 41. The stop surface 54 can be arranged along the frame 47. In this case, the stop surface 54 can guide the pipette carrier 41 when it is introduced into the transport device 40.

[0097] The inner toothing 46 can have an engagement element 60, in particular an edge or a flange, on the end 46a distal to the elongated base. The engagement element 60 can be used to exert a force on the transfer device 40, in particular by means of the pipetting device 42. This force is in particular exerted in the direction from the lower edge 58 of the inner toothing 46 towards the upper edge 57. Figure 19 The engagement element 60 is shown implemented as a flange.

[0098] The transfer device 40 is in particular adapted to the pipetting device 42, which is implemented such that the transfer device 40 is horizontally placed, in particular inserted, into the pipetting device 42. Alternative pipetting devices are implemented such that the transfer device 40 is received vertically through the upper edge 57 of the comb structure 43. To this end, the transfer device 40 can have at least two orientation elements 52, such as for example Figure 19 As shown, these orientation elements are implemented such that the transfer device 40 can be automatically introduced into the pipetting device 42. The pipetting device 42 can have a pipetting head 72, which is movable along the z-axis, and can thus be moved from above onto the transfer device and rests on the transfer device 40. In this case, the at least two orientation elements 52 are used to guide the pipetting head 72.

[0099] Figure 20 An embodiment of the transfer system 55 of the present application is shown in a plan view of the upper edge 57 of the comb structure 43, with the transfer device 40 and the pipette carrier 41. The transfer system 55 can comprise a plurality of pipette tips 2 introduced into the pipette carrier 41. Figure 20 The pipette carrier 41 shown in Fig. 1 is a single plate support 20; however, it can also be a double plate support 1 or, in the given case, some other pipette carrier 41. The pipette carrier 41 can have at least one locking element 30 and the transfer device can have at least one holding element 48. The at least one holding element 48 and the at least one locking element 30 can be implemented such that the locking of the pipette carrier 41 and the transfer device 40 is achieved by means of a form-locking or a pin assembly. The pipette carrier 41 can be locked in the transfer device 40 along at least one axis, since the holding elements 48 of the transfer device 40 engage with the locking elements 30 of the pipette carrier 41. In the example shown, two catches 30a of the pipette carrier 41 each engage a notch 48b of the transfer device 40 in order to prevent movement of the pipette carrier 41 and thus movement of the pipette carrier 41 along the elongated base 44. Two other catches 30a engage two radial segments 48c in order to prevent movement of the pipette carrier 41 in the direction of the teeth 45, 46. Furthermore, two eaves 48a engage notches 30b in order to prevent movement of the pipette carrier 41 transversely to the upper edge 57.

[0100] Figures 21a-22Another embodiment of the transfer device 40 of the present application is shown. The inner teeth 46 can have a tapered cross section that narrows in the direction of the upper edge 57 in order to improve the force transfer from the pipetting device 42 to the transfer device 40. Thus, the inner teeth 46 can have a greater width on the lower edge 58 than on the upper edge 57. The tapered cross section of the inner teeth 46 is shown in detail in Figure 21b

[0101] The inner teeth 46 can be implemented such that at least one inner tooth 46 has a greater length than at least one other inner tooth 46. This facilitates the loading of the pipette carrier 41 into the transfer device 40, since the pipette carrier 41 first engages with the at least one inner tooth 46 having the greater length and in this way can be guided in a simple manner between the other inner teeth 46. In particular, the inner teeth 46 can gradually be longer from the outer teeth 45 to the center 59 of the comb structure 43. Another option is that one or two inner teeth 46 at the center 59 of the comb structure 43 are shorter than the surrounding teeth 46. One or two inner teeth 46 can also be longer than the remaining inner teeth 46.

[0102] The considered length d of the inner teeth 46 can be the distance between the surface 44a of the elongated base 44 on which the inner teeth 46 are arranged and the end 46a of the inner teeth 46 opposite the elongated base 44. In this case, the surface 44a of the elongated base 44 on which the inner teeth 46 are arranged is planar, in particular such that the attachment points of the inner teeth 46 on the elongated base 44 lie on a shared axis.

[0103] As already explained, at least one stop surface 54 can be provided in order to guide the pipette carrier 41 when it is introduced into the transfer device 40. Furthermore, the frame 47 can have at least one peripheral guide slot 53. The guide slot 53 can likewise facilitate the loading of the pipette carrier 41. In particular in the case of a double plate support 1, in which the lower plate 4 moves in the guide slot 53 on the lower edge 58 and the upper plate 4 moves in the guide slot 53 on the upper edge 57, the double plate support 1 can be loaded into the transfer device 40 in a simple manner. In combination with the stop surface 54, the at least one guide slot 53 can further facilitate the loading of the pipette carrier 41.

[0104] Figure 22 A cross section of a transfer system 55 with the transfer device 40 and the pipette carrier 41 is shown. The inner teeth 46 can have a tapered cross section. The pipette carrier 41 is optionally filled with pipette tips. As an example, the pipette carrier 41 is implemented as a double plate support 1 with an upper plate 3 and a lower plate 4; however, it can also be implemented as a single plate support. From Figure 22 ​It is apparent that the conical cross section of the inner toothing 46 matches the outer diameter of the pipette tip over the entire height of the teeth 46, in particular as a function of the height. The force exerted on the transfer device 40 by means of the pipetting device 42 in the direction of the upper edge 57 is transmitted by means of the conical section, in particular advantageously to the upper edge 57 and to the collar 2c of the pipette tip 2. This in particular facilitates the sealing of the collar 2c against the sealing plate of the pipetting device 42.

[0105] Figures 23a-23c Another embodiment of the transfer device 40 of the present application is shown. The height of the inner toothing 46 can be reduced on the lower edge 58, such that the height of the inner toothing 46 gradually decreases from the elongated base 44 to the end 46a of the inner toothing 46 distal to the elongated base 44. Figure 23b A cross section of the transfer device 40 is shown, which schematically illustrates the height reduction of the inner toothing 46. The height reduction of the inner toothing 46 facilitates the exertion of a force from the pipetting device 42 from the lower edge 58 of the transfer device 40. For example, the height of the inner toothing 46 can be reduced, such that the height of the inner toothing 46 is reduced by an angle between 0.05° and 6°, in particular between 0.05° and 3°. Figure 23c The effect of the height reduction of the inner toothing 46 is schematically shown. In the absence of a force on the inner toothing 46, and thus in the absence of a force on the transfer device 40, the inner toothing 46 shows a height reduction, such as described. In the presence of a force, in particular from the pipetting device 42, a deformation of the inner toothing 46 occurs, such that the lower edge 58 of the inner toothing 46 approaches or reaches a horizontal position. The force on the transfer device 40 in the pipetting device 42 can be exerted in the direction of the upper edge 57, such that the transfer device presses against a region of the pipetting device 42, in particular the sealing plate. The inner toothing 46 can be used for the force transmission from the pipetting device 42 to the pipette tip carrier 41. The pipette tip carrier can be a disposable article, which has larger manufacturing tolerances than the transfer device 40. Thus, the height reduction of the inner toothing 46 ensures a compensation of the manufacturing tolerances of the pipette tip carrier 41, and can mean that the sealing plate 70 of the pipetting device 42 is not damaged by the pipette tip carrier 41 in the presence of a force exerted on the transfer device 40.

[0106] Figure 24 Another embodiment of the transfer device 40 of the present application is shown. The transfer device 40 can have a gripping element 61, such as for example a flange, an edge or a surface, on the frame 47, by means of which a force can be exerted on the transfer device 40. In the illustrated example, the gripping element 61 is embodied as a surface.

[0107] Figures 25-27 An embodiment of the transfer system 55 of the present application with the transfer device 40 and the single plate support 20 is shown. The transfer system 55 optionally comprises a plurality of pipette tips 2 placed in the openings 22. Figure 26An exploded view of the transport system 55 is shown, in which the transport device 40 and the single plate support 20 have been oriented so that the single plate support 20 is held by the transport device 40. In Figure 27 and Figure 25 the support device 33 is fully loaded into the transport device 40. The single plate support 20 can be loaded into the transport device 40 so that the inner teeth 46 are arranged between the orientation elements 23. Figure 25 A view of the transport system 55 on the end 46a of the teeth is shown. The inner teeth 46 can protrude beyond the pipette tip 2. In particular, when the inner teeth 46 are embodied so that at least one inner tooth 46 is longer than at least one other inner tooth 46, the at least one other inner tooth 46 can also end before the last position of the pipette tip 2.

[0108] Figures 28-29 Another embodiment of the transport system 55 of the invention with the transport device 40 and the single plate support 20 is shown. The at least one gripping portion 27 can be arranged in such a way that it is introduced into the frame recess 49. By means of exerting a force on the at least one gripping portion 27 or on both gripping portions 27, the single plate support 20 can be released from the transport device 40.

[0109] Figures 30-31 An embodiment of the transport system 55 of the invention with the transport device 40 and the double plate support is shown. Optionally, the transport system 55 has a plurality of pipette tips 2, which are introduced into the first channel 5 and the second channel 6. Figure 30 It is shown how the support system 17 is introduced into the transport device 40, whereas in Figure 31 the support system 17 is fully in the transport device 40. In this case, the double plate support 1 can be introduced into the transport device so that the inner teeth 46 are arranged between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4. The inner teeth 46 can protrude beyond the pipette tip 2. In particular, when the inner teeth 46 are embodied so that at least one inner tooth 46 is longer than at least one other inner tooth 46, the at least one other inner tooth 46 can also end before the last position of the pipette tip 2 (compare Figure 25 ).

[0110] Figures 32-33Two embodiments of a pipetting system 80 of the present application are shown. The pipetting system 80 comprises a pipetting device 42 and a transfer system 55 which in turn comprises a transfer apparatus 40, a pipette support 41 and a plurality of pipette tips 2. The pipetting device 42 can have a pipetting head 72 in which pipetting channels 71 are arranged for letting liquid into and releasing from the pipette tips 2 and a sealing plate 70 in which the pipetting channels are guided through the sealing plate 70. The sealing plate 70 serves for sealing the pipette tips. The pipetting device 42 can be adapted to exert a force on the transfer apparatus 40 so that the pipette tips 2 are sealed against the sealing plate 70 with their collars 2c arranged in the pipette carrier 41. Figure 32 The transfer system 55 is shown to be introduced horizontally into the pipetting device 42, while in Figure 33 it is introduced vertically. In order to support the vertical introduction of the transfer system 55, at least two, in particular four, orientation elements 52 can be arranged on the pipette carrier 41. With regard to the construction of the pipetting device, in particular with regard to the pipetting head, in particular with regard to the arrangement and embodiment of the pipetting channels and the sealing plate, reference is made to the utility model DE 20 2008 013 533 U1 in general.

[0111] How the pipette carrier 41 is introduced into the transfer apparatus 40 and how the thus formed transfer system 55 is introduced into the pipetting device 42 will be described below. Then, it will be described how the transfer system 55 can be removed from the pipetting device 42 first and how the pipette carrier 41 can be removed from the transfer system 55 last.

[0112] The method can be based on Figure 20 A method for introducing a pipette carrier 41, in particular a double plate support 1 or a single plate support 20, into a transfer apparatus 40 is described. In this case, first, the pipette carrier 41 is introduced into the transfer apparatus 40. The pipette carrier 41 comprises at least one locking element 30 and the transfer apparatus 40 comprises at least one holding element 48, wherein the at least one locking element 30 is embodied to correspond to the at least one holding element 48. In this case, a section of the pipette carrier 41 can be located on the internal toothing 46. In particular, the internal toothing 46 enters between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 of the double plate support 1 or between the orientation elements 23 of the single plate support 20. In this case, the upper plate 3 or the plate 21 can be located on the internal toothing 46 and, in the given case, can be guided by means of the at least one stop surface 54 and / or the at least one guide slot 53. Then, the pipette carrier 41 is locked in the transfer apparatus 40, since a first force is exerted on the pipette carrier 41 in the direction of the elongated base 44 until the at least one holding element 48 engages with the at least one locking element 30.

[0113] The transport system 55 composed in this way can then be introduced into the pipetting device 42 manually or automatically. In the case of a horizontal introduction into the pipetting device 42, such as in Figure 32 The transport system 55 can be introduced by means of the handle 50 of the transport apparatus 40, as shown by way of example in Figure 33 In the case of a vertical introduction into the pipetting device 42, such as in

[0114] In order to be able to carry out the pipetting process, the pipette tip 2 must be sealed against the sealing plate 70. For this purpose, a pulling force can be applied by means of the pipetting device 42, in each case on both long sides of the transport system 55, such that the transport system 55 is pressed against the sealing plate 70. If the pipette carrier 41 is a double plate support 1, the pulling force can be applied on the gripping element 61 of the transport apparatus 40 and the force input element 14 of the double plate support 1. For this purpose, the pipetting device 42 can have corresponding bearing elements, which are pressed against the gripping element 61 and the force input element 14. If the pipette carrier 1 is a single plate support 20, the pulling force can be applied on the gripping element 61 of the transport apparatus 40 and the engagement element 60 of the transport apparatus 40. Furthermore, in this case, the pipetting device 42 can have corresponding bearing elements, which are pressed against the gripping element 61 and the engagement element 60. The bearing elements can be arranged on pivotable arms.

[0115] After sealing of the transport system 55 in the pipetting device 42, the pipetting process can be carried out. After termination of the pipetting process, the pulling force can be released and the transport system 55 is discarded by means of the pipette tip 72 or released from the pipetting device 42 by means of the handle 50.

[0116] In a further step, the pipette carrier 41 can be removed from the transport system 55. For this purpose, the locking between the at least one locking element 30 and the at least one holding element 48 has to be released. This can happen because a second force is exerted on the pipette carrier 41 in the direction of the lower edge 58 of the comb structure 43, so that the locking between the at least one holding element 48 and the at least one locking element 30 is released. The second force can be exerted manually or by an automatic device. In the case of the single plate support 20, the second force can be exerted on the at least one grip 27 of the single plate support 20. Preferably, the single plate support 20 has two grips 27 and the second force is exerted on both grips 27 at the same time. In the case of the double plate support 1, the second force can be exerted on the at least one grip element 13. In both cases, the transport device 40 can have a frame recess 49, in which the grips 27 or grip elements 13 protrude inward, so that an operator or a robot can easily reach and operate the grips 27 or grip elements 13.

[0117] List of reference signs

[0118] 1 double plate support

[0119] 1a transverse axis of the double plate support

[0120] 2 pipette tip

[0121] 2a distal region

[0122] 2b proximal region

[0123] 2c collar

[0124] 3 upper plate

[0125] 3a first long side of the upper plate

[0126] 3b center of the upper plate

[0127] 3c second long side of the upper plate

[0128] 4 lower plate

[0129] 4a first long side of the lower plate

[0130] 5 first channel

[0131] 6 second channel

[0132] 7 side wall

[0133] 8 strut

[0134] 9 border

[0135] 10 radial segment

[0136] 11 spacer

[0137] 12 material reducing portion

[0138] 13 gripping element

[0139] 14 force input element

[0140] 15 code area

[0141] 16 code element

[0142] 17 support system

[0143] 20 single board support

[0144] 20a transverse axis

[0145] 21 plate

[0146] 21a long side of the plate

[0147] 21b transverse side of the plate

[0148] 22 opening

[0149] 23 orientation element

[0150] 24 radial segment

[0151] 26 carrier element

[0152] 27 gripping portion

[0153] 28 identification area

[0154] 29 identification element

[0155] 30 locking element

[0156] 30a catch

[0157] 30b notch

[0158] 31 upper side of the plate

[0159] 32 lower side of the plate

[0160] 33 support device

[0161] 34 reinforcing element

[0162] 35 spacer

[0163] 36 material reducer

[0164] 40 conveying device

[0165] 41 pipette carrier

[0166] 42 pipetting device

[0167] 43 comb structure

[0168] 44 elongated base

[0169] 44a surface

[0170] 45 outer teeth

[0171] 46 inner teeth

[0172] 46a end of inner teeth

[0173] 47 frame

[0174] 48 holding element

[0175] 48a ledge

[0176] 48b notch

[0177] 48c radial segment

[0178] 49 frame recess

[0179] 50 handle

[0180] 51 centering element

[0181] 52 orientation element

[0182] 53 guide slot

[0183] 54 stop surface

[0184] 55 transfer system

[0185] 57 upper edge

[0186] 58 lower edge

[0187] 59 center of comb structure

[0188] 60 engagement element

[0189] 61 gripping element

[0190] 70 sealing plate

[0191] 71 pipetting channel

[0192] 72 pipetting head

[0193] 80 pipetting system

Claims

1. A transfer device (40) for inserting a pipette carrier (41) into a pipetting apparatus (42), comprising: - A comb-like structure (43) having an elongated base (44) and a plurality of teeth (45, 46) arranged perpendicularly thereto, wherein the teeth are arranged parallel to each other and equidistantly and include two outer teeth (45) and a plurality of inner teeth (46) arranged between the outer teeth (45), wherein the elongated base (44) and the two outer teeth (45) are implemented in the form of a triangular frame (47). - At least one retaining element (48) is arranged on the frame (47) and configured such that the pipette carrier (41) can be locked in the transfer device (40) along at least one axis.

2. The conveying device (40) according to claim 1. in, The at least one retaining element (48) is an eave, a recess, a protrusion and / or a notch.

3. The transmission device (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 2. in, The at least one retaining element (48) is implemented as a radial segment or a circular segment.

4. The conveying device (40) according to claim 1. in, The at least one retaining element (48) includes a spring, a magnet, and / or a rotating element.

5. The transmission device (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 4. in, The conveying device (40) includes a handle (50) arranged on the elongated base (44).

6. The conveying device (40) according to claim 5. in, The handle (50) includes a centering element (51), in particular an opening, which is configured to enable the conveying device (40) to be moved by an automated device.

7. The transmission device (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 6. in, The frame (47) includes a frame recess (49) in the region of the elongated base (44), and the frame recess is particularly centrally located on the elongated base (44).

8. The transmission device (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 7. in, The frame (47) includes at least one peripheral guide groove (53).

9. The transmission device (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 8. in, The frame (47) includes at least one stop surface (54) arranged at least along the elongated base (44) and at the same height as the upper edge of the internal teeth (46) or between the internal teeth (45, 46).

10. The transmission device (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 9. in, The internal teeth (46) have at least one engagement element (60) at one of the ends (46a) away from the elongated base (44), by means of which force can be applied to the conveying device (40).

11. The transmission device (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 10. in, The frame (47) includes a gripping element (61) by means of which force can be applied to the conveying device (40).

12. A transmission system (55), comprising: - The transmission device (40) according to any one of the preceding claims; - A pipette carrier (41) having at least one locking element (30) corresponding to the retaining element (48); The pipette carrier (41) can be inserted into the transfer device (40) and can be locked in the transfer device (40) by means of the at least one locking element (30) and the at least one retaining element (48).

13. A method for inserting a pipette carrier (41) into The method in the conveying device (40) of the conveying system (55) according to claim 12, wherein, The method includes the following steps: - Insert the pipette carrier (41) into the transfer device (40); - The pipette carrier (41) is locked in the transfer device (40) by applying a first force to the pipette carrier (41) in the direction of the elongated base (44) until the at least one retaining element (48) engages with the at least one locking element (30).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The method further includes the following steps: - A second force is applied to the pipette carrier (41) in the direction below the comb-like structure (43), causing the locking between the at least one retaining element (48) and the at least one locking element (30) to be released; and - Extract the pipette carrier (41) from the transfer device (40).

15. A pipetting system (80), comprising: - The transmission system (55) according to claim 12. - A pipetting device (42) having a pipetting tip (72) having a sealing plate (70) and a plurality of pipetting channels (71) for drawing liquid into and discharging liquid from the pipetting tip (2), wherein the pipetting channels (71) are guided through the sealing plate (70). The transfer system (55) can be introduced into the pipetting device (72), and the pipetting device (72) is adapted to apply force to the transfer device (55) such that the pipetting tip (2) arranged in the pipetting carrier (41) is sealed against the sealing plate (70).

Images