Filter wheel, filter wheel module and microwell plate reader

Abstract

The utility model relates to a filter wheel for fixing an optical filter in a microplate reader, which comprises a filter wheel body provided with a filter wheel cavity, and the optical filter is accommodated in the filter wheel cavity; and the first holding part is arranged on the filter wheel body and is used for holding the optical filter to the filter wheel body in a buckling fit or magnetic fit mode. According to the optical filter wheel, the optical filter and the optical filter wheel can be quickly jointed, the optical filter can be quickly assembled and disassembled without any additional tool, the service life of the optical filter wheel is prolonged, and the safety of a product is improved. In addition, the utility model also relates to a filter wheel module and a microplate reader.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to a filter wheel for fixing a filter in a microplate reader. In addition, the utility model also relates to a filter wheel module and a microplate reader. Background Art

[0002] Microplate readers can be widely used in scientific research and testing fields such as life sciences. Microplate readers can usually be used in conjunction with microplates. Microplates can be provided with a sample well array including a plurality of sample wells, and each sample well can be provided with a sample to be tested. Microplate readers can detect biological, chemical or physical phenomena of samples provided in the sample wells, providing valuable information for a wide range of applications in life sciences, drug discovery and biochemical research.

[0003] A microplate reader may generally include an optical system, a microplate / tray, a detector, and an electronic and data processing system, etc. The optical system may include a light source, a filter, etc. The light source may be used to emit light, while the filter is used to select the desired wavelength of light for excitation or detection. Therefore, filters are generally used in microplate readers with fixed wavelength settings, which only allow specific wavelengths to pass. Different wavelengths require the use of different filters. Therefore, when in use, users need to load and unload filters from the filter wheel in each application.

[0004] However, for the microplate reader of the prior art, when the user wants to load and unload the filter, he needs to first loosen the screws and sheet metal cover with a tool such as a screwdriver, and then start to load and unload the filter / filter. After completion, the user needs to use a tool such as a screwdriver again to install the sheet metal cover and tighten it. These operations will take a lot of time and reduce the user experience. In addition, there is also a risk of losing screws and sheet metal parts during this process. Therefore, during the manufacturing process, the operator will need to spend more time to assemble the entire filter wheel module, which greatly increases the total operating cost of the product. In addition, since the screw base hole on the filter wheel is usually a plastic hole, this plastic hole cannot withstand multiple loosening of the screws, so there is a reliability problem, which further increases the possibility of product failure.

[0005] Therefore, there remains a pressing need to provide an improved microplate reader that overcomes one or more of the shortcomings of the prior art. Utility Model Content

[0006] The utility model aims to provide a filter wheel, which allows the filter to be replaced quickly and reliably without any installation tools.

[0007] According to one aspect of the utility model, a filter wheel for fixing a filter in a microplate reader is proposed, and the filter wheel may include: a filter wheel body, the filter wheel body is provided with a filter wheel cavity, and the filter can be accommodated in the filter wheel cavity; and a first retaining portion, the first retaining portion can be provided on the filter wheel body, and is used to retain the filter to the filter wheel body in a snap-fit ​​or magnetic fit manner.

[0008] The filter wheel can realize the rapid connection between the filter and the filter wheel, and the filter can be quickly installed and removed without any additional tools, thereby extending the service life of the filter wheel and improving the safety of the product.

[0009] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the filter wheel may further include a cover portion, the cover portion includes a second retaining portion, and the second retaining portion cooperates with the first retaining portion to allow the cover portion and the filter wheel body to be manually placed in an engaged state or a released state with each other.

[0010] By means of such a cover, the filter can be clamped between the filter wheel body and the cover, and the cover can be quickly engaged and released by snap-fitting, so as to facilitate safe and rapid assembly and disassembly of the filter.

[0011] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the cover can cover the filter wheel cavity and further comprises a gripping portion, which is integrally formed with the second holding portion and arranged radially symmetrically to allow the cover to be manually gripped.

[0012] In this arrangement, the filter can be arranged between the cover and the filter wheel body, and an operator can directly grasp it with one hand, so the manufacturing and installation process is relatively simple and the operation efficiency is high.

[0013] According to the above aspects of the utility model, preferably, the cover portion may include a U-shaped elastic mechanism, and the U-shaped elastic mechanism includes a first branch portion and a second branch portion, wherein the gripping portion and the second retaining portion are arranged on the first branch portion, and the second branch portion is fixed to the cover portion.

[0014] This arrangement allows the operator to operate with two fingers, making disassembly faster and more efficient.

[0015] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the filter wheel may further include a positioning mechanism, which may include a first positioning portion provided on the cover and a second positioning portion provided on the filter wheel body, the first positioning portion and the second positioning portion cooperate to position the installation position of the cover relative to the filter wheel body.

[0016] By providing the positioning mechanism, an operator can more conveniently and quickly align and install the cover and the filter wheel body.

[0017] According to the above aspects of the utility model, preferably, a groove may be provided in the filter wheel cavity, the filter is accommodated in the groove, and the depth of the groove is less than the thickness of the filter.

[0018] In this way, after installation, at least a portion of the filter is outside the groove, which makes it easier for operators to take out the filter with their fingers, improves operating efficiency, and further helps to clamp the filter between the cover and the filter wheel.

[0019] According to the above aspects of the utility model, preferably, a groove can be provided in the filter wheel cavity, and the filter is accommodated in the groove, wherein the filter wheel can also include a retaining ring cooperating with each filter, the retaining ring is pivotally attached to the filter wheel body and includes a third retaining portion, and the filter wheel body can include a fourth retaining portion, and the third retaining portion cooperates with the fourth retaining portion to clamp the filter between the retaining ring and the groove.

[0020] In this way, each filter can be clamped to the filter wheel by means of a separate clamping ring, and a more flexible filter replacement method is provided, so that the operator can replace a filter individually as needed.

[0021] According to the above aspects of the utility model, preferably, the filter wheel may further include a filter number mark arranged around the filter wheel. The filter number mark may be used to identify a specific filter to improve replacement efficiency.

[0022] According to a second aspect of the utility model, a filter wheel module for a microplate reader is proposed, which filter wheel module may include: a filter wheel according to the above aspects, and an attachment device, the attachment device is used to detachably attach the filter wheel to the housing of the microplate reader to allow the filter wheel to rotate around a rotation axis, wherein the attachment device includes a first attachment mechanism arranged on the housing and a second attachment mechanism arranged on the filter wheel.

[0023] The filter wheel module may include a detachable structure such as a magnetic attraction and a snap-fit ​​structure for quick disassembly and assembly of the filter wheel without the need for additional installation tools, thereby further improving operational efficiency.

[0024] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, a plurality of filters arranged along the periphery of the filter wheel cavity may be further included, each filter allowing light of a different wavelength to pass through, and at least one filter is non-detachably fixed to the filter wheel body.

[0025] In this way, the filters of commonly used wavelengths can be set to be non-detachable, which reduces the cost of the filter wheel and improves the manufacturing and use efficiency.

[0026] According to the above aspects of the utility model, preferably, the first attachment mechanism may include a first magnet, and the second attachment mechanism may include a second magnet, and the first magnet and the second magnet are arranged in a magnetic attraction relationship. Through this magnetic attachment method, the connection structure can be simplified and the operating efficiency can be improved.

[0027] According to the above aspects of the utility model, preferably, the first attachment mechanism may include a first cavity arranged at the shell, the first cavity accommodating the first magnet, and the second attachment mechanism may include a second cavity arranged at the center of the filter wheel, the second cavity accommodating the second magnet, wherein the second cavity is open toward the end of the shell.

[0028] This arrangement allows for increased magnetic attraction and facilitates replacement of magnets, so that magnets with different parameters can be replaced according to the required magnetic force, thereby satisfying the requirement for quick and reliable detachable connection of the filter wheel.

[0029] According to the above aspects of the utility model, preferably, the filter wheel module may further include a third attachment mechanism, and the third attachment mechanism and the first attachment mechanism may be arranged relative to the second attachment mechanism, wherein the third attachment mechanism may include a third magnet, and the third magnet and the second magnet are arranged in a magnetic attraction relationship. In this way, the magnetic adsorption effect is increased by the additional magnet, so that the adsorption connection is more reliable.

[0030] According to the above aspects of the utility model, preferably, the magnetic force between the second magnet and the first magnet is between 2N-6N, and / or the magnetic force between the second magnet and the third magnet is between 1N-5N.

[0031] This arrangement allows the filter wheel to be firmly attached by magnetic force and to be able to be removed and placed with one hand, for example, the operator can operate it with only two fingers.

[0032] According to the above aspects of the utility model, preferably, the second magnet does not coincide with the internal central magnetic axes of the first magnet and the third magnet, so that the filter wheel is biased toward the first direction, wherein the filter wheel module also includes a supporting mechanism, and the supporting mechanism is used to support the filter wheel in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0033] This arrangement can form a more reliable adsorption support and holding structure, and the support mechanism can help balance part of the gravity of the filter wheel and ensure that there is not too much magnetic force to make it impossible to operate with one hand.

[0034] According to a third aspect of the utility model, a microplate reader is proposed, which may include: a filter wheel module according to the above aspect, wherein a first tooth portion is provided on the periphery of the filter wheel; and a drive wheel, which is driven by a motor and has a second tooth portion, wherein the first tooth portion is engaged with the second tooth portion so that the filter wheel is driven to rotate by the drive wheel.

[0035] Therefore, the filter wheel module of the utility model can meet the use requirements, overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and achieve the predetermined purpose. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] In order to further clearly describe the ventilation system according to the utility model, the utility model will be described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. In the accompanying drawings:

[0037] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a microplate reader according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0038] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a portion of a microplate reader is shown with portions of the housing removed to more clearly illustrate the internal structure;

[0039] Figure 3 Shows Figure 2 A schematic enlarged view of a portion of a microplate reader is shown;

[0040] Figure 4 Shows Figure 2 Another schematic enlarged view of a portion of a microplate reader is shown with the filter wheel removed to more clearly illustrate associated structures;

[0041] Figure 5 Shows Figure 2 Another schematic enlarged view of a portion of a microplate reader is shown;

[0042] Figure 6 Shows Figure 2 A schematic top view of a portion of a microplate reader is shown;

[0043] Figure 7 Shows Figure 2 A schematic top cross-sectional view of a filter wheel module of a microplate reader is shown;

[0044] Figure 8 A schematic perspective view of a filter wheel according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0045] Fig. 9A schematic exploded perspective view of a filter wheel according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0046] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 A schematic front view of a filter wheel is shown;

[0047] Fig.11 yes Fig. 9 A schematic top view of the filter wheel is shown;

[0048] Fig.12 yes Fig. 9 A schematic rear view of the filter wheel is shown;

[0049] Fig.13 yes Fig. 9 A schematic front view of a filter wheel is shown with the cover removed;

[0050] Fig.14 yes Fig.13 A schematic top view of the filter wheel is shown;

[0051] Fig.15 yes Fig.13 A schematic rear view of the filter wheel is shown;

[0052] Fig.16 A schematic front view of a filter wheel according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0053] Fig.17 It passes through Fig.16 A cross-sectional view taken along section line AA;

[0054] Fig.18 A schematic perspective view of a filter wheel according to another non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0055] Fig.19 yes Fig.18 A schematic front view of a filter wheel is shown;

[0056] Fig. 20 yes Fig.18 A schematic rear view of the filter wheel is shown;

[0057] Fig.21 It passes through Fig. 20 A cross-sectional view taken along section line BB;

[0058] Fig. 22 It passes through Fig. 20 A cross-sectional view taken along section line CC;

[0059] Fig.23 yes Fig.18 A schematic exploded perspective view of the filter wheel shown;

[0060] Fig.24 A schematic perspective view of a filter wheel according to another non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0061] Fig.25 yes Fig.24 A schematic front view of a filter wheel is shown;

[0062] Fig.26 yes Fig.24 A schematic rear view of the filter wheel is shown;

[0063] Fig. 27 It passes through Fig.26 A cross-sectional view taken along section line DD of ; and

[0064] Fig.28 yes Fig.24 A schematic exploded perspective view of the filter wheel is shown.

[0065] The above drawings are merely schematic and are not drawn strictly to scale.

[0066] List of reference numerals in the figures and embodiments:

[0067] 1000-well microplate reader, including:

[0068] 100-Filter Wheel Module, including:

[0069] 10-Filter Wheel, including:

[0070] 101- first tooth portion;

[0071] 10A- filter wheel cavity;

[0072] 10B-groove;

[0073] 11-Filter wheel body, including:

[0074] 11A-first through hole;

[0075] 12- filter;

[0076] 13- a first holding portion;

[0077] 14- Cover, including:

[0078] 14A-U-shaped elastic mechanism;

[0079] 141- second holding portion;

[0080] 142- gripping part;

[0081] 143-first branch;

[0082] 144-second branch;

[0083] 15- Positioning mechanism, including:

[0084] 151-first positioning portion;

[0085] 152- second positioning portion;

[0086] 16-Snap ring, including:

[0087] 161- third holding portion;

[0088] 17- fourth holding part;

[0089] 18-Filter number mark;

[0090] 19- marking piece;

[0091] 20- Attachment device, including:

[0092] 30- A first attachment mechanism, comprising:

[0093] 31- a first magnet;

[0094] 32-first cavity;

[0095] 40- The second attachment mechanism comprises:

[0096] 41- a second magnet;

[0097] 42- second cavity;

[0098] 50 - third attachment mechanism;

[0099] 51- a third magnet;

[0100] 60-Support mechanism, including:

[0101] 61- first supporting structure;

[0102] 62- second supporting structure;

[0103] 200-housing;

[0104] 300-driving wheel;

[0105] 301- second tooth portion;

[0106] X - pivot axis;

[0107] Y - first direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0108] It should be understood that, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the present invention may adopt various alternative orientations and step sequences. It should also be understood that the specific devices shown in the drawings and described in the specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the utility model concepts disclosed and defined herein. Therefore, unless otherwise explicitly stated, the specific orientations, directions or other physical features involved in the various embodiments disclosed should not be considered as limitations.

[0109] Figure 1 1 shows a schematic diagram of a microplate reader 1000 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a portion of a microplate reader 1000 is shown, with a portion of the housing 200 removed to more clearly illustrate the internal structure.

[0110] As shown and as a non-limiting example, the microplate reader 1000 may mainly include a filter wheel module 100 , a housing 200 , a driving wheel 300 , and other components housed in the housing 200 , such as a light source, a detector, and the like.

[0111] As shown, drive wheel 300 may be drivingly coupled to filter wheel module 100 to position a desired filter in the optical path to allow light of a particular wavelength to pass therethrough to achieve a desired detection purpose.

[0112] The driving connection between the driving wheel 300 and the filter wheel module 100 will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0113] Figure 3 Shows Figure 2 A schematic enlarged view of a portion of a microplate reader 1000 is shown; Figure 4 Shows Figure 2 Another schematic enlarged view of a portion of microplate reader 1000 is shown with filter wheel 10 removed to more clearly illustrate nearby structures; Figure 5 Shows Figure 2 Another schematic enlarged view of a portion of a microplate reader 1000 is shown.

[0114] As shown, driving wheel 300 may be driven by a motor and has second teeth 301 that may mesh with first teeth 101 of filter wheel module 100 to drive filter wheel 10 of filter wheel module 100 to rotate about its pivot axis.

[0115] In addition, if Figure 5As shown, filter wheel module 100 further includes a support mechanism 60. Support mechanism 60 is used to carry filter wheel 10 in a direction opposite to first direction Y. As an example, support mechanism 60 may include a first support structure 61 and a second support structure 62. First support structure 61 and second support structure 62 may be in the form of idler wheels mounted to housing 200, and rotate as filter wheel 10 rotates.

[0116] For example, the first support structure 61 can be coaxially arranged with the driving wheel 300 and positioned on the left side of the filter wheel 10 in the figure, while the second support structure 62 can be arranged at the lower right of the filter wheel 10, so that the first direction Y forms an angle of approximately 30-60 degrees with the vertical direction. Figure 5 The filter wheel 10 is supported at the upper right as shown in FIG.

[0117] Figure 6 Shows Figure 2 A schematic top view of a portion of a microplate reader 1000 is shown; and Figure 7 Shows Figure 2 A schematic top cross-sectional view of a filter wheel module 100 of a microplate reader 1000 is shown.

[0118] As shown in the figure, the filter wheel module 100 can mainly include a filter wheel 10 and an attachment device 20, etc. The filter wheel 10 can be used to load or fix the filter in the microplate reader 1000, and can include a filter wheel body 11 and a holding device for holding the filter 12 on the filter wheel body 11, as described in more detail below in conjunction with the drawings.

[0119] The attachment device 20 can be used to removably attach the filter wheel 10 to the housing 200 of the microplate reader 1000 to allow the filter wheel 10 to be rotated about the rotation axis X to position a desired filter 12 in the optical path.

[0120] like Figure 7 As schematically shown in FIG. 1 and as a non-limiting example, the attachment device 20 may mainly include a first attachment mechanism 30 , a second attachment mechanism 40 and an optional third attachment mechanism 50 .

[0121] The first attachment mechanism 30 may be provided on the housing 200, and include a first magnet 31 and a first cavity 32. The first cavity 32 may be a part of the housing 200, and the first magnet 31 may be accommodated in the first cavity 32.

[0122] The second attachment mechanism 40 may be disposed on the filter wheel 10, and include a second magnet 41 and a second cavity 42. The second cavity 42 may be disposed around the rotation axis X of the filter wheel 10, and the second magnet 41 may be accommodated in the second cavity 42. The end of the second cavity 42 facing the housing 200 may be open to facilitate installation of the second magnet 41 into the second cavity 42, for example, by bonding or welding.

[0123] The first magnet 31 and the second magnet 41 may be arranged in a magnetically attractive relationship so that the filter wheel 10 can be magnetically coupled to the housing 200 .

[0124] It should be understood that the contact surface between the first attachment mechanism 30 and the second attachment mechanism 40 may be smooth to allow the filter wheel 10 to rotate relative to the housing 200, for example, under the drive of the drive wheel 300 as described above.

[0125] The third attachment mechanism 50 may be disposed opposite the first attachment mechanism 30 with respect to the second attachment mechanism 40. The third attachment mechanism 50 may include a third magnet 51, and the third magnet 51 is arranged in a magnetically attractive relationship with the second magnet 41.

[0126] As an example, the magnetic poles from the first magnet 31 , the second magnet 41 and the third magnet 51 may be arranged in sequence: SNSNSN, or alternatively, the magnetic poles from the first magnet 31 , the second magnet 41 and the third magnet 51 may be arranged in sequence: NSNSNS.

[0127] Preferably, the magnetic force between the second magnet 41 and the first magnet 31 can be between 2N-6N, and / or the magnetic force between the second magnet 41 and the third magnet 51 can be between 1N-5N.

[0128] like Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , the inner central magnetic axes of the second magnet 41 and the first and third magnets 31 and 51 may not coincide. For example, the central axes of the first and third magnets 31 and 51 are both located to the left of the rotation axis X of the filter wheel 10, and thus to the left of the rotation axis X of the second magnet 41.

[0129] This arrangement between the three magnets biases the filter wheel 10 toward the first direction Y, thereby allowing the magnetic force between the magnets to pull the filter wheel 10 in the first direction Y and against the support mechanism 60 as described above.

[0130] Figure 8 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a filter wheel 10 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 9A schematic exploded perspective view of a filter wheel 10 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0131] As shown in the figure, the filter wheel 10 may mainly include a filter wheel body 11 and a first holding portion 13 for holding a filter 12 and other structures.

[0132] The filter wheel body 11 may be substantially disc-shaped and may be provided with a filter wheel cavity 10A and a plurality of first through holes 11A, such as eight first through holes 11A shown in the drawings. These first through holes 11A are arranged around the center of the filter wheel body 11. The filter 12 may be accommodated in the filter wheel cavity 10A and aligned with the first through hole 11A, such as centrally aligned, for light to pass through.

[0133] A first tooth portion 101 is disposed on the filter wheel body 11 , for example, near the periphery, and the first tooth portion 101 can mesh with a second tooth portion 301 of the driving wheel 300 so that the filter wheel 10 is driven to rotate by the driving wheel 300 .

[0134] In addition, if Figure 8 As shown in , the filter wheel 10 may further include filter number marks 18 disposed around the filter wheel 10 to indicate the number of each filter 12, so as to facilitate the operator to quickly locate the filter 12 that needs to be operated when removing the filter 12.

[0135] Preferably and if Fig. 9 As shown, a groove 10B may be provided around each first through hole 11A for accommodating the optical filter 12. And the depth of the groove 10B may be less than the thickness of the optical filter 12, so that the optical filter 12 is at least partially located outside the groove 10B, but is still accommodated in the filter wheel cavity 10A.

[0136] Although the structure of the filter wheel 10 is described herein in conjunction with the filter 12, it should be understood that the filter wheel 10 according to the present invention may not include the filter 12, but only needs to be provided with structures related to the loading, loading or fixing of the filter, such as the filter wheel cavity 10A or the groove 10B described above. In alternative embodiments, filters with structures different from the filter 12 described herein may also be provided.

[0137] The filter 12 may include a plurality of filters 12 arranged along the periphery of the filter wheel cavity 10A, and each filter 12 may be a substantially circular disk, for example, a transparent lens made of glass or resin, etc., to allow light of different wavelengths to pass through. A frame may be provided at the periphery of each filter 12, for holding the filter 12 and cooperating with a corresponding structure, so that the filter 12 is snap-fitted and mounted to the filter wheel body 11.

[0138] In addition, as a preferred embodiment, at least one filter can be fixed to the filter wheel body 11 in an undetachable manner. Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the three filters 12 on the right side can be directly fixed to the groove 10B without being detachably mounted, for example, directly bonded to the groove 10B. For such filters, there is no need to arrange a frame around them.

[0139] The first retaining portion 13 may be provided on the filter wheel body 11 for retaining the filter 12 to the filter wheel body 11 in a snap-fit ​​manner. Fig.17 As shown in more detail, the first retaining portion 13 may include a hook-like structure for snap-fitting with the second retaining portion 141, the third retaining portion 161 or the optical filter 12 in different embodiments. The hook-like structure may have a predetermined elasticity so that when the optical filter 12 is installed and removed, the hook-like structure can be elastically deformed to allow snap-fitting or release.

[0140] It should be understood that first retaining portion 13 may have slightly different shapes when mated with these different retaining portions, but are all secured to or integral with filter wheel body 11 .

[0141] In an embodiment not shown, the first retaining portion 13 may alternatively retain the filter 12 to the filter wheel body 11 in a magnetically coupled manner. In this case, the magnets may be similarly arranged in a magnetically detailed relationship on the corresponding retaining structure.

[0142] like Fig. 9 As shown in detail in FIG. 1 , the filter wheel 10 further includes a cover 14. The cover 14 may be substantially disc-shaped and match the shape of the filter wheel body 11. As an example, the cover 14 may include a second retaining portion 141, which may cooperate with the first retaining portion 13 to allow the cover 14 and the filter wheel body 11 to be manually placed in an engaged state or a released state with each other.

[0143] In addition, if Fig. 9 As shown in , the filter wheel 10 may further include a marking member 19. The marking member 19 may be directly bonded to the surface of the filter wheel 10 opposite to the cover 14, and may include an opening corresponding to the first through hole 11A to avoid blocking light. Various markings may be printed on the marking member 19, such as the number of the filter 12, etc., for identifying the filter 12 to be operated.

[0144] Figure 10-15 Examples of filter wheels 10 are shown in different views, wherein Figure 13-15 The view in FIG. 2 does not show the cover 14 .

[0145] Also refer to Figure 9-15, it can be seen that the cover 14 covers the filter wheel cavity 10A and further includes a gripping portion 142 , which is integrally formed with the second retaining portion 141 and arranged radially symmetrically to allow the cover 14 to be manually gripped.

[0146] Fig.16 1 shows a schematic front view of a filter wheel 10 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; and Fig.17 It passes through Fig.16 A cross-sectional view taken along section line AA.

[0147] like Fig.17 As shown in detail in FIG. 1 , the cover portion 14 may include a U-shaped elastic mechanism 14A, and the U-shaped elastic mechanism may include a first branch portion 143 and a second branch portion 144 .

[0148] Specifically, a gripping portion 142 and a second holding portion 141 may be provided on the first branch portion 143. The gripping portion 142 may include a free end above the first branch portion 143, and the second holding portion 141 may be located below the gripping portion 142 and have a hook portion that cooperates with the first holding portion 13. The second branch portion 144 may be fixed to the cover portion 14, for example, integrally formed with the cover portion 14, for example, via a process such as injection molding.

[0149] like Fig.16 As shown in FIG. 1 , the filter wheel 10 may further include a positioning mechanism 15. The positioning mechanism 15 may include a first positioning portion 151 disposed on the cover 14 and a second positioning portion 152 disposed on the filter wheel body 11. For example, the first positioning portion 151 may be in the form of a positioning hole, and the second positioning portion 152 may be in the form of a positioning pin.

[0150] The first positioning portion 151 and the second positioning portion 152 may cooperate with each other to locate the installation position of the cover 14 relative to the filter wheel body 11 .

[0151] Figure 18-23 Various schematic diagrams of a filter wheel 10 according to another non-limiting embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0152] In addition to the following description, Figure 18-23 The filter wheel 10 in the illustrated embodiment is similar to the Figure 8-17 The filter wheel described in is similar, so for the sake of brevity, the repeated description is omitted.

[0153] In reference Figure 18-23 In the illustrated embodiment, a separate retaining ring 16 is provided for each optical filter 12 , instead of providing only one cover 14 to cover all the optical filters 12 as in the previous embodiment.

[0154] exist Figure 18-23In the illustrated embodiment, a groove 10B is also provided in the filter wheel cavity 10A, and the filter 12 is accommodated in the groove 10B. At the periphery of the groove 10B, the filter wheel body 11 includes a fourth retaining portion 17. For example, three fourth retaining portions 17 may be arranged along the periphery of each groove 10B, and they are equally spaced in the circumferential direction around the groove 10B.

[0155] In addition, the filter wheel 10 may further include a retaining ring 16 that cooperates with each filter 12, one side of the retaining ring 16 may be pivotally attached to the filter wheel body 11 and may include a third retaining portion 161. The third retaining portion 161 may cooperate with the fourth retaining portion 17 to clamp the filter 12 between the retaining ring 16 and the groove 10B.

[0156] like Fig.23 As more clearly shown in FIG. 1 , the pivoting portions of the retaining rings 16 may all be arranged close to the center of the filter wheel body 11 .

[0157] Figure 24-28 Various schematic diagrams of a filter wheel 10 according to yet another non-limiting embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0158] In addition to the following description, Figure 24-28 The filter wheel 10 in the illustrated embodiment is similar to the Figure 18-23 The filter wheel described in is similar, so for the sake of brevity, the repeated description is omitted.

[0159] In reference Figure 24-28 In the illustrated embodiment, the separate retaining ring 16 provided for each filter 12 is omitted, and the filter 12 is directly engaged with the fourth retaining portion 17 of the filter wheel body 11. In other words, the edge portion of each filter 12 is in direct contact with the fourth retaining portion 17.

[0160] like Fig.28 As shown in detail in the figure, a plurality of hooks may be provided around the periphery of each groove 10B, for example, three hooks as shown in the figure. The free ends of the hooks may be elastic so that the filter 12 can be clamped therebetween or released from these hooks. In this way, the filter 12 can be directly replaced.

[0161] As used herein, the terms "upper right" or "lower right" to indicate position or orientation, and the terms "first", "second", etc. to indicate order are only intended to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to better understand the concept of the present invention shown in the form of a preferred embodiment, and are not intended to limit the present invention. Unless otherwise specified, all orders, positions, or orientations are only used for the purpose of distinguishing one element / component / structure from another element / component / structure, and unless otherwise specified, do not represent any particular order, order of operation, direction, or orientation. For example, in an alternative embodiment, "first magnet" may be "second magnet", and "upper right" may alternatively refer to "upper left".

[0162] As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, the terms "substantially" and "approximately" are interpreted to mean plus or minus five percent of the value or range of values, or to mean a deviation of plus or minus five percent of the shape and / or position.

[0163] In summary, the filter wheel module 100 according to the embodiment of the present utility model overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art and achieves the intended purpose of the utility model.

[0164] Although the filter wheel module of the present invention is described above in combination with the preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should recognize that the above examples are only for illustration and cannot be used as limitations of the present invention. Therefore, various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention within the spirit of the claims, and these modifications and variations will fall within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A filter wheel (10) for fixing a filter in a microplate reader (1000), characterized in that: The filter wheel (10) comprises: A filter wheel body (11), wherein the filter wheel body is provided with a filter wheel cavity (10A), and a filter (12) is accommodated in the filter wheel cavity (10A); and A first retaining portion (13) is arranged on the filter wheel body (11) and is used to retain the filter (12) to the filter wheel body (11) in a snap-fit ​​or magnetic fit manner.

2. The filter wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The filter wheel (10) further comprises a cover portion (14), wherein the cover portion comprises a second retaining portion (141), wherein the second retaining portion (141) cooperates with the first retaining portion (13) to allow the cover portion (14) and the filter wheel body (11) to be manually placed in a mutually engaged state or a released state.

3. The filter wheel (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that The cover (14) covers the filter wheel cavity (10A) and further comprises a gripping portion (142) which is integrally formed with the second retaining portion (141) and arranged radially symmetrically to allow the cover (14) to be manually gripped.

4. The filter wheel (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that The cover portion (14) includes a U-shaped elastic mechanism (14A), and the U-shaped elastic mechanism includes a first branch portion (143) and a second branch portion (144), wherein the gripping portion (142) and the second retaining portion (141) are arranged on the first branch portion (143), and the second branch portion (144) is fixed to the cover portion (14).

5. The filter wheel (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that: The filter wheel (10) further comprises a positioning mechanism (15), wherein the positioning mechanism comprises a first positioning portion (151) arranged on the cover portion (14) and a second positioning portion (152) arranged on the filter wheel body (11), wherein the first positioning portion (151) and the second positioning portion (152) cooperate to locate the installation position of the cover portion (14) relative to the filter wheel body (11).

6. The filter wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that A groove (10B) is provided in the filter wheel cavity (10A), the filter (12) is accommodated in the groove (10B), and the depth of the groove (10B) is less than the thickness of the filter (12).

7. The filter wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that A groove (10B) is provided in the filter wheel cavity (10A), and the filter (12) is accommodated in the groove (10B), wherein the filter wheel (10) further includes a retaining ring (16) cooperating with each filter, the retaining ring is pivotally attached to the filter wheel body (11) and includes a third retaining portion (161), and the filter wheel body (11) includes a fourth retaining portion (17), and the third retaining portion (161) cooperates with the fourth retaining portion (17) to clamp the filter (12) between the retaining ring (16) and the groove (10B).

8. The filter wheel (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The filter wheel (10) also includes filter number markings (18) arranged around the filter wheel (10).

9. A filter wheel module (100) for a microplate reader (1000), characterized in that: The filter wheel module (100) comprises: The filter wheel (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and an attachment device (20) for detachably attaching the filter wheel (10) to a housing (200) of the microplate reader (1000) to allow the filter wheel (10) to rotate about an axis of rotation (X), The attachment device (20) comprises a first attachment mechanism (30) arranged on the housing (200) and a second attachment mechanism (40) arranged on the filter wheel (10).

10. The filter wheel module (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that: It also includes a plurality of filters (12) arranged along the periphery of the filter wheel cavity (10A), each filter allowing light of a different wavelength to pass through, and at least one filter is non-detachably fixed to the filter wheel body (11).

11. The filter wheel module (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that: The first attachment mechanism (30) includes a first magnet (31), and the second attachment mechanism (40) includes a second magnet (41), and the first magnet (31) and the second magnet (41) are arranged in a magnetically attractive relationship.

12. The filter wheel module (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that: The first attachment mechanism (30) comprises a first cavity (32) arranged at the housing (200), the first cavity accommodating the first magnet (31), and the second attachment mechanism (40) comprises a second cavity (42) arranged at the center of the filter wheel (10), the second cavity accommodating the second magnet (41), wherein the end of the second cavity (42) facing the housing (200) is open.

13. The filter wheel module (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that: The filter wheel module (100) further comprises a third attachment mechanism (50), the third attachment mechanism being arranged opposite to the first attachment mechanism (30) with respect to the second attachment mechanism (40). Wherein, the third attachment mechanism (50) comprises a third magnet (51), and the third magnet (51) and the second magnet (41) are arranged in a magnetic attraction relationship.

14. The filter wheel module (100) according to claim 13, characterized in that: The magnetic force between the second magnet (41) and the first magnet (31) is between 2N and 6N, and / or the magnetic force between the second magnet (41) and the third magnet (51) is between 1N and 5N.

15. The filter wheel module (100) according to claim 13, characterized in that: The second magnet (41) does not coincide with the inner central magnetic axes of the first magnet (31) and the third magnet (51), so that the filter wheel (10) is biased toward a first direction (Y), wherein: The filter wheel module (100) further comprises a supporting mechanism (60), wherein the supporting mechanism (60) is used to support the filter wheel (10) in a direction opposite to the first direction (Y).

16. A microplate reader (1000), characterized in that The microplate reader (1000) comprises: The filter wheel module (100) according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein a first tooth portion (101) is provided on a periphery of the filter wheel (10); and a driving wheel (300), which is driven by a motor and has a second tooth portion (301), The first tooth portion (101) meshes with the second tooth portion (301) so that the filter wheel (10) is driven to rotate by the driving wheel (300).

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