Cuvette for processing a sample

Abstract

A cuvette for processing a sample (8), the cuvette comprising a cuvette body (2) having a proximal end (3), a distal end (4) and a cuvette chamber (6) forming an interior space of the cuvette body, wherein the cuvette (1) is capable of being arranged with the proximal end (2) on a pipette tip (7) and the sample (8) is capable of being received via the distal end (4), wherein a receiving element (9) for receiving the sample (8) is attachable on the distal end (4) and the receiving element (9) comprises at least one capillary element (10). The capillary element (10) is here arranged on the receiving element (9) such that the sample (8) is capable of being received into the capillary element (10) by means of a capillary force of the capillary element (10), wherein a first fluid (32) is capable of being introduced into the cuvette chamber (6), characterized in that the receiving element (9) is attachable to a wall (11) of the cuvette body (2) surrounding the cuvette chamber (6) such that the first fluid (32) is capable of coming into contact with the sample (8) located in the capillary element (10) and the sample (8) is capable of being received into the cuvette chamber (6) of the first fluid (32) by means of an adhesion force of the first fluid (32).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a cuvette for processing fluid samples, a pipetting device for processing fluid samples, and a method for processing fluid samples.

[0002] When processing large numbers of samples, numerous processing steps must be performed. For this purpose, automated laboratory equipment is typically used because it is essential to ensure the precise transfer of reagents into and out of containers such as microplates.

[0003] Here, existing automated laboratory machines typically include a processing chamber in which a sample is introduced into a container; a pipetting device for performing processing steps; a moving device for moving the pipetting device within the processing chamber; and an electronic control device that controls and issues commands to the pipetting device and other components of the automated laboratory machine to perform the processing steps.

[0004] Therefore, automated laboratory machines ensure automated sample preparation processes, improving efficiency and increasing throughput.

[0005] However, pipetting devices are not only used in automated laboratory machines but also commonly used for measuring liquids. These liquids are received through the tip opening and dispensed into the pipette tip of the pipetting device. For this purpose, a displacement element, particularly for gases, is integrated into the pipetting device. This displacement element is connected to the pipette tip in terms of flow via a docking element for the pipette tip. By displacing the gas cushion with the displacement element, liquid is drawn into and ejected from the pipette tip. The displacement element is typically a cylinder in which a displaceable piston is incorporated.

[0006] The pipette tips are detachably connected to the mating element, allowing the tips to be replaced with new ones after use. This prevents contamination during subsequent measurements. Disposable pipette tips are inexpensive and made of plastic.

[0007] The docking element specifically includes a protrusion for securing a preferably cylindrical or conical pipette tip, which can be clamped onto the protrusion by mating with a connector opening or a reservoir. This can be accomplished by pressing the protrusion into the connector opening of the pipette tip in the holder, without clamping the pipette tip.

[0008] To avoid contamination, pipettes preferably have an ejection device with a drive mechanism and an ejector. By actuating the drive mechanism, the ejector is displaced, releasing the pipette tip from the protrusion without the user touching the tip. For this purpose, the drive mechanism typically has a mechanism that can be manually actuated by a button (or automatically actuated in the case of automated laboratory equipment) to release the pipette tip from the docking element.

[0009] In existing technologies, cuvettes are typically placed on pipette tips to dispense fluid into and analyze it. In this case, the cuvette is placed on the pipette tip, similar to securing the pipette tip to the cuvette, and preferably, the user does not need to touch the cuvette.

[0010] In the case of automated laboratory machines, the displacement element of the pipetting device can be integrated into the docking element, particularly arranged inside the docking element. Here, the displacement element can be configured as a piston that can be displaced within the docking element.

[0011] Laboratory automated machines often integrate optical detection devices for analyzing samples and / or mixtures of samples with introduced fluids. The analysis is typically performed using optical techniques such as spectroscopy or photometry.

[0012] Especially in the case of biomolecules, emission spectroscopy is an important analytical method for evaluating emission light generated based on photon absorption by biomolecules.

[0013] For this purpose, fluorescent chemical groups can be attached to large biomolecules using fluorescent labeling, and the fluorescent chemical groups then act as markers for the biomolecules.

[0014] In many processes, the concentration of the sample (i.e., the concentration of the relevant molecules in the solution) affects further processing. The concentration of the sample is easy to determine, especially by means of fluorescence spectroscopy.

[0015] In the context of this invention, the term "sample" can be understood, in particular, to mean a sample comprising a liquid containing substances such as biomolecules (especially DNA, RNA, nucleic acids, proteins, cells and cellular components, monomers) or other chemical substances. In the context of this invention, the fluid can be, for example, a suitable solvent.

[0016] Optical density (a measure of the attenuation of radiation after it passes through a medium) can also be used to determine concentration.

[0017] Laboratory automated machines, especially pipetting devices, can be used to receive varying amounts of fluid. However, they are often inaccurate and difficult to control, particularly for receiving small amounts of fluid or small sample volumes (approximately 1.5 μl at most), because small volumes are easily adhered to containers, pipette tips, and cuvette walls due to phenomena such as surface tension and adhesion. Therefore, pipetting operations at these volumes typically have a CV value exceeding 10%.

[0018] This invention addresses this problem. Therefore, the object of this invention is to provide a cuvette that eliminates these drawbacks of the prior art.

[0019] The subject matter of the invention that achieves this purpose is characterized by the features of the independent claims.

[0020] Further advantages and embodiments of the invention are revealed in the dependent claims.

[0021] According to the present invention, a cuvette for processing samples is provided, the cuvette comprising a cuvette body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a cuvette chamber forming an internal space of the cuvette body.

[0022] In this configuration, the cuvette can be positioned proximally on the pipette tip, and the sample can be received distally.

[0023] For this purpose, a receiving element for receiving the sample can be attached to the distal end. This receiving element includes at least one capillary element, which is arranged on the receiving element such that the sample can be received into the capillary element by means of its capillary force. The capillary element allows for highly targeted volume reception. This is particularly advantageous with smaller sample volumes (less than 1.5 μl), as manipulating these sample sizes is difficult, as mentioned above.

[0024] A first fluid can be introduced into the cuvette chamber, and a receiving element can be attached to the wall surrounding the cuvette chamber of the cuvette body, so that the first fluid can contact the sample located in the capillary element, and the sample can be received into the cuvette chamber by means of the adhesive force of the first fluid.

[0025] Capillary elements can have different shapes and be configured differently. Thus, for example, a capillary element can be a capillary channel. However, it is also conceivable to use two parallel plates, so-called capillary plates, between which capillary forces arise along the surfaces of the plates facing each other. The use and arrangement of more than two capillary plates are also conceivable.

[0026] The arrangement of at least one capillary channel also includes the arrangement of multiple channels, resulting in the ability, for example, to receive multiple different samples or fluids. This is particularly advantageous for sample analysis, and also for observing and analyzing reactions involving multiple reactants. In this way, multiple analytical steps or material supplies can be performed in a targeted manner and under observation.

[0027] Of course, the same advantages can be achieved when using multiple capillary plates.

[0028] Another advantage of the low-volume uptake of capillary elements, especially capillary channels, is that a smaller volume of sample needs to be generated or supplied from the outset in order to analyze the sample or reaction. This is a decisive cost advantage because it also means that fewer other volumes of reactants are required to analyze the sample in the same amount of time.

[0029] In addition, fewer people are needed to produce a large number of samples.

[0030] In one exemplary embodiment of the cuvette, the receiving element may be arranged as an extension of at least the wall of the distal end of the cuvette.

[0031] Therefore, ordinary (i.e., commercially available) cuvettes can also be equipped with receiving elements and used to receive precise, small sample volumes.

[0032] In another exemplary embodiment, the cuvette may include at least one measuring surface disposed on the cuvette body. In this case, the measuring surface may be specifically attached to the circumferential side of the cuvette body. This measuring surface enables accurate analysis of the contents of the cuvette. In this way, a sample or fluid inside the cuvette (i.e., the interior of the cuvette chamber) can be analyzed at a specific time or during a specific time window. In particular, a detection device for performing the analysis may be disposed on the measuring surface. In this case, the detection device can be manually operated.

[0033] Similarly, one can envision fully automated detection devices, as well as remotely controlled detection devices.

[0034] In embodiments of the invention, the detection device may include: a radiation source for irradiating a sample and / or a mixture of the sample and a fluid with primary radiation; and a detector for receiving secondary radiation (for analytical purposes) originating from the sample and / or the mixture. Thus, the radiation source generates electromagnetic radiation (primary radiation). The secondary radiation is specifically electromagnetic secondary radiation emitted from / originating from the sample and / or the mixture, which is triggered by the interaction of the primary radiation with the sample and / or the mixture.

[0035] Here, UV / Vis radiation and / or NIR radiation are particularly preferred as primary radiation, especially in the wavelength range of 190 nm to 1000 nm, and particularly 365 nm to 720 nm. Diodes, especially silicon photodiodes or vacuum photodiodes, are particularly suitable as detectors. Lasers, deuterium lamps, tungsten lamps, halogen lamps, mercury vapor lamps, or LEDs (light-emitting diodes) can be used as radiation sources.

[0036] In practice, the detection apparatus may also include a large number of detectors and / or radiation sources. Here, the radiation sources may emit different wavelengths or wavelength ranges as primary radiation. The use of two radiation sources is particularly preferred, configured as a first radiation source (preferably a first LED) having a first wavelength (e.g., 450 nm to 490 nm) and a second radiation source (preferably a second LED) having a second wavelength (e.g., 600 nm to 630 nm). If a large number of radiation sources are present, analysis can be performed confocally. Thus, the beam paths of the primary radiation from different sources are guided to a common focal point in the sample and / or mixture.

[0037] Therefore, the detection device can be a photometer, especially a spectrophotometer, and particularly a fluorometer. A fluorometer measures the fluorescence parameters of a sample and / or mixture: the intensity and wavelength distribution of the emission spectrum after excitation by primary radiation (secondary radiation).

[0038] In the context of this invention, absorption measurement can be used as the measurement principle, wherein a radiation source generates primary radiation in the UV / Vis range and / or NIR range (particularly a single wavelength, such as 280 nm), and the attenuated beam (secondary radiation) after passing through the sample and extension is detected by means of a detector. Here, the absorption intensity is preferably characterized by extinction value or optical density (a measure of the attenuation of primary radiation in the medium (sample and extension)).

[0039] Furthermore, in the context of this invention, a camera is preferably used for measuring and analyzing samples. Here, the camera can operate across all conventional wavelength ranges, such as the visible, UV, and infrared ranges.

[0040] In another exemplary embodiment of the cuvette according to the invention, the cuvette may have a tapered portion at the distal end, such that the perimeter of the arrangement of the cuvette and the receiving element is substantially equal to the perimeter of the cuvette at the proximal end.

[0041] This is advantageous, for example, during the handling of cuvettes, and especially during transport, because the combination of the cuvette and at least one receiving element can thus be performed using the same tool on each circumferential side of the combination without having to readjust the clamping tool to the circumference of the corresponding point of the combination.

[0042] In another exemplary embodiment of the cuvette according to the invention, the cuvette may have a first connecting region at its distal end, which can be connected to the receiving element by means of a second connecting region at the proximal end of the receiving element. As a result, the receiving element can be removably arranged on the cuvette by means of the connecting regions. Here, the first and second connecting regions can particularly form a form-fitting and / or force-fitting fluid-sealed plug connection. This has the advantage that fluid flow between the cuvette and the receiving element can be reversibly generated by means of the connection.

[0043] The shape-fitting plug connection may have, for example, a recess in the first connection area and a matching protrusion in the second connection area, in order to increase the plug connection's resistance to external forces.

[0044] In another exemplary embodiment of the cuvette according to the invention, the capillary channel may have a first section for receiving a sample and a second section for dispensing a sample, wherein these sections are preferably open. Here, the first section may be particularly arranged at the distal end of the receiving element, resulting in the channel being open at the end with the first section, that is, there is no end wall defining the capillary channel in the longitudinal direction there.

[0045] It can also be imagined that capillary channels are capillary channels that are open on the circumferential side, resulting in the existence of open circumferential sides.

[0046] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the first and second segments are arranged together on one of the circumferential sides, with the second segment positioned between the first segment and the proximal end of the cuvette. It is also conceivable that the first and second segments are arranged on different circumferential sides of the capillary channel, respectively.

[0047] Similarly, one can imagine that each end of the channel has an end wall in its own case, and as a result, the channel is defined by these end walls in the longitudinal direction.

[0048] Preferably, at least the second section can be arranged on the open circumferential side.

[0049] Similarly, the first segment and the second segment can be arranged one after the other on the circumferential side in the longitudinal direction, so that the first segment and the second segment form an open circumferential side.

[0050] This type of capillary channel is particularly advantageous in terms of production because it is easier to produce using conventional methods, such as injection molding, compared to channels with four or more closed circumferential sides.

[0051] In mass production, economies of scale in terms of material and weight savings are also realized.

[0052] In another exemplary embodiment of the cuvette according to the invention, the capillary element, in particular the capillary channel, may extend from the distal end of the receiving element via the proximal end of the receiving element on the inside of the receiving element, and extend into the cuvette chamber on the inner wall of the cuvette chamber adjacent to the proximal end.

[0053] Typically, it is conceivable that more than one capillary element, particularly more than one capillary channel, extends on the inner side as described above. In this way, for example, multiple samples can be received simultaneously. It is also conceivable to receive substances for analyzing the samples, such that these substances can be received simultaneously with the samples into the cuvette chamber. This, in particular, allows for targeted control of the onset time of the reaction in the cuvette chamber, or allows for analysis of the contents of the cuvette chamber.

[0054] Here, the substance used for analysis may be an analytical substance known to those skilled in the art, such as dyes, luminescent or radioactive markers, or biomolecules such as enzymes.

[0055] In a preferred exemplary embodiment of the cuvette according to the invention, the capillary element, in particular the capillary channel, may extend only as far as the cuvette chamber.

[0056] The advantage of this is that no part of the capillary element, especially no part of the capillary channel, needs to be present in the cuvette, which simplifies the production of the cuvette, for example, in injection molding methods. Additionally, it makes it possible to use commercially available cuvettes that do not have capillary elements.

[0057] Of course, the cuvettes according to the present invention can also be produced from other materials (e.g., glass) or from a combination of different materials.

[0058] In a preferred exemplary embodiment of the cuvette according to the invention, the receiving element may be attached to the distal end of the cuvette such that the receiving element extends to cover 5% to 80% of the area of ​​the distal end, preferably 15% to 80%, more preferably 20% to 40%, and particularly preferably 20% to 33% of the area.

[0059] Because the coverage area of ​​the receiving elements varies, the position of the capillary elements, particularly the inlet region of the capillary channel, at the far end of the cuvette can be adjusted. This has the advantage that samples, fluids, dyes, analytes, or other substances can be introduced into the cuvette at predefined points, which facilitates good distribution of these substances within the cuvette.

[0060] The receiving element can also be, for example, composed of two opposing plates, each having a first surface and a second surface, and the two plates can be arranged adjacent to each other such that the first and second surfaces of the plates are arranged parallel to each other, and capillary force can be established between the two opposing surfaces of the plates. Due to this capillary force, the sample / fluid can be received and transported between the plates.

[0061] In another exemplary embodiment of the cuvette according to the present invention, the receiving element may be an integral part of the cuvette.

[0062] Therefore, the retention of the receiving element on the cuvette can be improved. Furthermore, the processing step of arranging the receiving element on the cuvette is thus eliminated.

[0063] In another exemplary embodiment of the cuvette according to the invention, the volume that can be received by the capillary element, in particular the capillary channel, can be predefined by the geometry of the capillary element, so that the capillary element can always receive a precisely predefined volume, wherein the capillary element may in particular have a defined inner contour with a predetermined cross section and / or corresponding length, so that the volume that can be received can be clearly defined by these geometric parameters.

[0064] Different possibilities can be envisioned for the shape of the capillary channel. Therefore, the channel can be circular or elliptical, or have a polygonal average area. However, the cuvette channel is preferably rectangular in shape.

[0065] Here, the capillary channel is preferably 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm deep, 0.5 mm to 0.9 mm wide, and 6.3 mm to 6.7 mm long, and particularly preferably 0.4 mm deep, 0.7 mm wide, and 6.5 mm long. 。

[0066] In a preferred exemplary embodiment of the cuvette according to the invention, dye, preferably a dried dye, that can adhere to the wall of the cuvette can be introduced into the cuvette. It is also conceivable that the dye can be introduced into the capillary element. This has the advantage that the dye does not need to be received into the cuvette in an additional processing step. Furthermore, in this way, the amount of dye can be accurately and consistently ensured, which is particularly advantageous in the analysis of multiple samples, as the variance of the measurement results is thus reduced.

[0067] In a preferred exemplary embodiment of the cuvette according to the invention, the capillary element may be pretreated, for example, by plasma treatment and / or surface coating (e.g., PEG coating) known to those skilled in the art.

[0068] In this way, the channels can be coated with, for example, a hydrophilic coating, which enables improved transport of fluids and substances within the capillary element. This effect can also be achieved through another method described above in the pretreatment process.

[0069] It is also conceivable to use one or more of these methods and substances to pretreat or coat the cuvette chamber and / or the entire cuvette.

[0070] In a preferred exemplary embodiment of the cuvette according to the invention, the cuvette may be conductive. Specifically, the cuvette may be conductive between the receiving element and the proximal end of the cuvette body. This can be achieved by the cuvette being at least partially made of a conductive material and / or at least partially coated with a conductive layer. For example, this layer may be applied by vapor deposition.

[0071] The advantage of this is that it allows the use of so-called "capacitive level detection" to detect the state of the cuvette immersed in the sample.

[0072] In addition, a method for processing samples using cuvettes according to the present invention is proposed, the method comprising the following steps: A pipetting apparatus is provided, on which a cuvette is arranged, and by means of the pipetting apparatus, a first fluid is introduced into the cuvette. The sample is received into the capillary element of the receiving element by introducing the receiving element into the sample, and contact between the first fluid and the sample is established by actuating the pipetting apparatus, thereby receiving the sample from the capillary channel into the cuvette chamber through adhesion.

[0073] This allows for the reception of samples, analytes, or fluids with precise volume measurements, especially volumes smaller than 2 μl. In particular, volumes smaller than 1.5 μl can be received, and volumes smaller than 1 μl and even less than 0.5 μl are expected.

[0074] Furthermore, by using capillary force, the volume to be received can be received into the capillary element in less than a second. This is particularly advantageous when analyzing reactions, because it is important to know from the outset when the two substances come into contact with each other and how well they are mixed, which can be determined in this way.

[0075] In the method according to the invention, fluids and / or samples can be mixed by repeated aspiration and dispensing in cuvettes and / or pipette tips.

[0076] The advantage of this is that no additional mixing vessels are required. Therefore, resource savings can be achieved in this way. Furthermore, the separate reception of the sample and fluid ensures that both substances are received safely and without contamination, while saving resources and time.

[0077] In the method according to the invention, the sample and / or the mixture of fluid and sample can be dispensed from a cuvette.

[0078] Therefore, the risk of contact with potentially hazardous substances can be reduced, especially when handling them. Consequently, the amount of fluid, mixture, or sample residue remaining in used cuvettes or pipette tips can be reduced, and thus no longer poses a risk to humans.

[0079] In addition, liquid and solid laboratory waste can be cleanly separated and better recycled in this way, as fluid residues are dispensed from the cuvettes.

[0080] In the method according to the invention, samples and / or fluids and / or mixtures of samples and fluids can be analyzed, particularly by means of a detection device. In this case, the analysis can preferably be performed in a cuvette chamber. However, it is also conceivable to perform prior or subsequent analyses outside the cuvette chamber. In this way, continuous and seamless analysis of the sample / fluid / mixture can be ensured.

[0081] Furthermore, this allows for the wide and flexible use of different analytical devices in the detection apparatus to achieve the best possible results in their respective situations. The simultaneous use of multiple analytical devices is also conceivable. This can involve different types of analysis, the same type of analysis, or combinations thereof.

[0082] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments and accompanying drawings. In the schematic drawings (partially sectional views): Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a cuvette according to the invention, having a receiving element, is shown; Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing details of a cuvette according to the invention, having a receiving element, is provided. Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the cuvettes arranged on a pipetting apparatus according to the present invention is shown. Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of a cuvette according to the present invention is shown. Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a cuvette according to the invention, having a capillary plate, is shown. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a laboratory automated machine having a cuvette according to the present invention is shown. Figure 7 A schematic diagram is shown of a pipetting apparatus having a cuvette according to the invention and the direction of movement of the pipetting apparatus in a laboratory automated machine.

[0083] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are schematic and diagrammatic representations of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, and are neither limiting of the present disclosure nor necessarily drawn to scale.

[0084] The novel features of this disclosure, in terms of its construction and mode of operation, along with other objects and advantages, will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the disclosure are illustrated by way of example.

[0085] In the following description, different embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are discussed herein as needed; however, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of embodiments of the present disclosure, which may be implemented in different and alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be enlarged or minimized to show detail of specific components. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but rather serve only as a representative basis for showing those skilled in the art how the present disclosure can be applied in different ways.

[0086] Unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” used herein include the plural. References to “powdered material” also mean, for example, that a mixture of one or more powdered materials may exist, unless this is explicitly excluded.

[0087] Unless otherwise stated, all numerical values ​​used in the specification and claims should be understood to be modified by the term "approximately" in all instances. Accordingly, unless otherwise stated, the numerical parameters given in the specification and claims are approximations that may vary depending on the desired properties to be achieved by embodiments of this disclosure. At a minimum, each numerical parameter should be interpreted in consideration of the number of significant figures and customary rounding conventions, and this is not intended to limit the scope of this teaching from equivalents to the scope of the claims.

[0088] Furthermore, indications of numerical ranges in this specification are intended to disclose all numerical values ​​and ranges within that range (unless otherwise explicitly stated). For example, if the range is from about 1 to about 50, it is assumed that the range includes, for example, 1, 7, 34, 46.1, 23.7, or any other value or range of values ​​within that range.

[0089] The terms “about” and “approximately” indicate that the quantity or value involved can be a specific value or some other value nearby. Generally, the terms “about” and “approximately” indicating a specific value are intended to represent a range within ±5% of that value. For example, the phrase “about 100” indicates a range of 100 ± 5, that is, a range of 95 to 105. When the terms “about” and “approximately” are used, it is generally assumed that similar results or effects according to this disclosure can be achieved within ±5% of the specified value.

[0090] The term “and / or” as used herein means that all or only one element of a specified group of elements may be present. For example, “A and / or B” means “A only or B only or both A and B”. In the case of “A only”, the term also covers the possibility that B is not present, i.e., “A only without B”.

[0091] The term "substantially" is used to indicate that the features, properties, or parameters described thereafter are fully (completely) realized or satisfied, or to the extent that the expected results are not compromised.

[0092] The term “containing” as used herein should not be construed as exclusive, but rather as open-ended. However, the term “comprising” also includes the more restrictive meanings of “consistently made of” and “made of”, resulting in, for example, “a composition comprising compound A” may also be (substantially) made of compound A.

[0093] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a cuvette according to the invention for processing a sample 8 (not shown) is shown. The cuvette includes a cuvette body 2 having a proximal end 3, a distal end 4, and a cuvette chamber 6 (not shown) forming the internal space of the cuvette body 2. The cuvette 1 is arranged on a pipette tip 7 (not shown) with its proximal end 3, and the sample 8 can be received via the distal end 4 of the cuvette 1. For this purpose, a receiving element 9 for receiving the sample 8 is attached to the distal end 4, and the receiving element 9 includes a capillary element 10, wherein the capillary element 10 is a capillary channel 10, and the capillary channel 10 is arranged on the receiving element 9 such that the sample 8 can be received into the capillary channel 10 by means of the capillary force of the capillary channel 10. The cuvette 1 is characterized in that the receiving element 9 is attached to the wall 11 surrounding the cuvette chamber 6 of the cuvette body 2, such that a first fluid (not shown) that can be introduced into the cuvette chamber 6 can contact the sample 8 in the capillary channel 10, and as a result, the sample 8 can be received into the cuvette chamber 6 by means of adhesion.

[0094] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the receiving element 9 is arranged as an extension of the wall 11 of at least the distal end 4 of the cuvette 1. However, multiple extensions may also be arranged on the wall (11) or multiple walls (11) (not shown).

[0095] Figure 1 It is also shown that at least one measuring surface 13 of the cuvette 1 is arranged on the cuvette body 2.

[0096] Figure 2 The cuvette 1 also has tapered portions 29 on both sides at the distal end 4. The receiving element 9 is arranged on one of these tapered portions 29 such that the receiving element and the non-tapered proximal end 3 of the cuvette 1 form a substantially planar surface 30.

[0097] Therefore, the perimeter of the arrangement of cuvette 1 and receiving element 9, especially multiple receiving elements (not shown), is substantially equal to the perimeter of cuvette 1 at its proximal end 3.

[0098] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the distal end 4 of the cuvette 1 according to any one of the preceding claims is shown, wherein the cuvette 1 has a first connecting region 14 at the distal end 4, which is connected to the receiving element 9 by means of a second connecting region 15, which is attached to the proximal end 19 of the receiving element 9, such that the receiving element 9 is removably arranged on the cuvette 1 by means of the connecting regions 14, 15, wherein the first connecting region 14 and the second connecting region 15 are specifically formed into a form-fit plug connection.

[0099] Figure 2 Also shown is a cuvette 1, wherein the capillary element is a capillary channel 10 and has a first opening 16 for receiving a sample 8 and a second opening 17 for dispensing the sample 8, wherein the capillary channel 10 is a capillary channel 10 open on a circumferential side 33, and wherein the second opening 17 is an open circumferential side 33.

[0100] Figure 2 The capillary channel 10 extends from the distal end 18 of the receiving element 9 via the proximal end 19 on the inner side 21 of the receiving element 9, and also extends into the cuvette chamber 6 (not shown) on the inner wall 22 adjacent to the proximal end 19. However, it is also conceivable that the capillary channel 10 extends only on the inner wall 22 of the receiving element 9 to the cuvette chamber 6.

[0101] In this case, the receiving element 9 of the cuvette 1 is attached to the distal end 4 of the cuvette 1 such that the receiving element extends to cover 5% to 80% of the area 20 of the distal end 4, preferably 15% to 80%, even more preferably 20% to 40%, and particularly preferably 20% to 33% of the area 20.

[0102] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the volume that can be received by the capillary channel 10 is predefined by the geometry of the capillary channel 10. As a result, the capillary channel 10 can always receive a volume that can be accurately predefined, wherein the capillary channel 10 has in particular a defined inner contour with a predetermined cross section and / or corresponding length. As a result, the volume that can be received is explicitly defined by these geometric parameters.

[0103] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the cuvette 2 according to the invention arranged on the pipetting apparatus 23 is shown. In this case, the cuvette 2 is arranged on the adapter 31 of the pipetting apparatus 23 by means of the pipette tip 7.

[0104] The pipette tip 7 protrudes into the cuvette chamber 6 of the cuvette 1, which forms the internal space of the cuvette body 2. A first fluid 32 is introduced into the pipette tip 7 by actuating the pipetting device 23, and the first fluid can come into contact with the sample 8 located in the capillary element 10 (not shown).

[0105] Figure 3 The cuvette 1 also shows a receiving element 9, which is an integral part of the cuvette 1.

[0106] Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of the cuvette 1 according to the invention is shown. This cross-section is guided along the first opening 16 of the capillary channel 10, through the distal end 4 and the cuvette chamber 6, to the proximal end 3. In this case, the receiving element 9 is arranged at the distal end 9.

[0107] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a cuvette 1 according to the invention is shown, which has capillary plates 10 arranged at the distal end 4 of the cuvette body 2 and forming capillary elements of receiving elements 9.

[0108] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a cuvette 1 according to the invention is shown, which is arranged in the processing chamber 27 of a laboratory automated machine 26 for performing a method for processing sample 8.

[0109] Figure 6The pipetting device 23 is further shown, with the cuvette 1 arranged on it. The sample 8 can be received into the capillary element 10 (not shown) by means of the receiving element 9, whereby the sample 8 itself is initially arranged in the sample container 25 within the processing chamber 27. A control device 28 is used to introduce the receiving element 9 into the sample 8; this control device can move the pipetting device 23 within the processing chamber 27 and operate its functions. In this case, the control device 28 can be manually controlled or signal-connected to a control operator (not shown). Specifically, in this case, the control device can be connected by cable and / or wirelessly, for example by means of radio, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi.

[0110] In this case, the sample 8 is received from the capillary element 10 into the cuvette chamber 6 (not shown) by means of the actuated pipetting device 23. By means of the actuated pipetting device, the first fluid 32 (not shown) can come into contact with the sample 8 located in the capillary element 10. As a result, the sample 8 can be received into the cuvette chamber 6 by means of adhesion.

[0111] In the cuvette chamber 6, the mixing and dispensing of the first fluid 32 and / or sample 8 can be achieved by repeatedly aspirating and dispensing liquid in the cuvette 1 and / or the pipette tip 7 of the pipetting device 23.

[0112] For the analysis of sample 8, a detection device 24 is attached to the laboratory automated machine 26. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the detection device 24 can be placed directly on the cuvette 1, or it can be placed at different locations in the laboratory automated machine 26. As a result, the sample 8 can be brought to the detection device 24 by means of the pipette 23.

[0113] Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing details of a pipetting apparatus 23 having a cuvette 1 according to the invention is provided. The cuvette 1 is attached to the pipetting apparatus 23 by means of a pipette tip 7 and an adapter 31, with the pipette tip protruding into the cuvette chamber 6, which forms the internal space of the cuvette body 2. Therefore, the cuvette 1 can be moved toward the sample container 25, which contains the sample 8, via the pipetting apparatus 23. The pipetting apparatus 23 is movable in all spatial directions (X, Y, Z), resulting in the pipetting apparatus being able to reach any point in the illustrated coordinate system.

[0114] Due to the features explained above, this invention allows for the first time the processing and analysis of samples, fluids, and analytes in small quantities directly received into cuvettes with virtually no error.

[0115] As a result, higher processing accuracy is achieved while saving resources, as reliable data can be obtained using only smaller volumes of samples, fluids, and analytes compared to what has been the case with existing technologies to date.

[0116] This resource saving not only has advantages in terms of sustainability, but also in terms of finance.

Claims

1. A cuvette for processing a sample (8), the cuvette comprising a cuvette body (2) having a proximal end (3), a distal end (4), and a cuvette chamber (6) forming an internal space of the cuvette body (2), wherein, The cuvette (1) can be positioned on the pipette tip (7) at its proximal end (3), and the sample (8) can be received via its distal end (4), wherein a receiving element (9) for receiving the sample (8) can be attached to the distal end (4), and the receiving element (9) includes at least one capillary element (10), wherein the capillary element (10) is positioned on the receiving element (9) such that the sample (8) can be received by means of the capillary force of the capillary element (10). In the capillary element (10), and wherein a first fluid (32) can be introduced into the cuvette chamber (6), the receiving element (9) is characterized in that it can be attached to the wall (11) of the cuvette body (2) surrounding the cuvette chamber (6), such that the first fluid (32) can contact the sample (8) located in the capillary element (10), and the sample (8) can be received into the cuvette chamber (6) by means of the adhesive force of the first fluid (32).

2. The cuvette according to claim 1, wherein, The receiving element (9) can be arranged as an extension of the wall (11) of at least the distal end (4) of the cuvette (1).

3. The cuvette according to claim 1 or 2, comprising at least one measuring area (13) arranged on the cuvette body (2).

4. The cuvette according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cuvette (1) has a first connection area (14) at its distal end (4), which is connected to the receiving element (9) by means of a second connection area (15) attached to the proximal end (19) of the receiving element (9). As a result, the receiving element (9) is removably arranged on the cuvette (1) by means of these connection areas (14, 15), wherein the first connection area (14) and the second connection area (15) form a fluid-tight shape-fitting plug connection.

5. The cuvette according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The capillary element (10) extends from the distal end (18) of the receiving element (9) via the proximal end (19) of the receiving element (9) on the inner side (21) of the receiving element (9), and extends into the cuvette chamber (6) on the inner wall (22) adjacent to the proximal end (19).

6. The cuvette according to claim 5, wherein, The capillary element (10) extends only as far as the cuvette chamber (6).

7. The cuvette according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The receiving element (9) is an integral part of the cuvette (1).

8. The cuvette according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The volume that can be received by the capillary element (10) is predefined by the geometry of the capillary element (10), resulting in the capillary element (10) always being able to receive a volume that can be accurately predefined, wherein the capillary element (10) specifically has a defined inner contour with a predetermined cross section and / or corresponding length, resulting in the volume that can be received being clearly defined by these geometric parameters.

9. The cuvette according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The capillary element (10) is a capillary channel.

10. The cuvette according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The capillary element (10) is a capillary plate.

11. A method for treating a sample (8) using a cuvette (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising the following steps: - Provide pipetting apparatus (23); - Arrange the cuvette (1) on the pipetting device (23); - The sample (8) is received into the capillary element (10) by introducing the receiving element (9) into the sample (8); - The first fluid (32) is introduced into the cuvette chamber (6) by actuating the pipetting device (23); - By actuating the pipetting device (23) to establish contact between the sample (8) located in the capillary element (10) and the first fluid (32), the sample is received into the cuvette chamber (6) by adhesion.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The first fluid (32) and the sample (8) are mixed by repeated aspiration and dispensing in the cuvette (1) and / or the pipette tip (7) of the pipetting device (23).

13. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein, The sample (8) and / or the mixture of the first fluid (32) and the sample (8) are dispensed from the cuvette (1).

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein, The sample (8) and / or the fluid (32) and / or the mixture of the sample (8) and the first fluid (32) are analyzed inside and / or outside the cuvette chamber (6), particularly by means of the detection device (24).

Images