Spacing adjusting device and pipetting equipment
By introducing a gap adjustment device into the pipette and using a constraint component to constrain the position of the pivot and rod, the positional accuracy problem caused by the gap of the telescopic support is solved, and the pipette can be precisely adjusted and accurately moved.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202423118564.3
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-16
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-02
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-12-16
AI Technical Summary
Existing pipettes have gaps at the pivot point of the telescopic support, resulting in poor positional accuracy of the connecting base and making it impossible to move accurately to the expected position, thus affecting the accuracy of pipetting operations.
The device employs a spacing adjustment mechanism, which includes multiple connecting bases, telescopic support assemblies, drive assemblies, and constraint assemblies. By constraining the arrangement of the pivots, the device ensures the precise positioning of the pivots and rods, thereby enabling precise adjustment of the connecting bases.
It improves the positional accuracy of the connecting base, ensuring that the pipette can be accurately moved to the expected position, thus enhancing the accuracy and precision of pipetting operations.
Smart Images
Figure CN223615929U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of medical device technology, specifically to a spacing adjustment device and a pipetting device having the same. Background Technology
[0002] A pipette, also called a pipette gun, is a measuring tool used to transfer liquid from one container to another within a certain volume range. Pipettes are widely used in fields such as biology and chemistry.
[0003] In practical applications, pipettes are typically mounted on a spacing adjustment device. Specifically, this device has multiple connecting bases. Each pipette is mounted on a corresponding connecting base. The connecting bases are connected by a telescopic support. By pivoting between the rods of the telescopic support, it can extend and retract, thereby adjusting the spacing between the connecting bases and, consequently, the position of the pipette.
[0004] However, because the pivot point of the telescopic support inevitably contains a gap that allows the rods to pivot, this gap can lead to poor positional accuracy of the connecting base, causing the pipette to fail to move accurately to the intended position. Consequently, the pipette may not be able to align with the container, resulting in unsuccessful pipetting. Utility Model Content
[0005] In order to at least partially solve the problems existing in the prior art, according to one aspect of the present invention, a spacing adjustment device is provided. The spacing adjustment device includes: a plurality of connecting bases arranged along a first direction; a telescopic support assembly including a plurality of first pivots, a plurality of second pivots, a plurality of third pivots, and a plurality of rod groups arranged along the first direction, the third pivots being located between the first and second pivots along a second direction, each rod group including a first rod and a second rod, the first and second rods of the rod group being pivotally connected to the third pivot respectively, the plurality of connecting bases being correspondingly disposed on the third pivot, the first rod and the second rod of the adjacent rod group being pivotally connected to the first pivot respectively, the second rod and the first rod of the adjacent rod group being pivotally connected to the second pivot respectively, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction; a drive assembly connected to at least one of the plurality of connecting bases to adjust the spacing of the plurality of connecting bases along the first direction; and a constraint assembly including a first constraint member and a second constraint member, the first constraint member being connected to the plurality of first pivots to constrain the plurality of first pivots to be arranged along the first direction, and the second constraint member being connected to the plurality of second pivots to constrain the plurality of second pivots to be arranged along the first direction.
[0006] For example, the first constraint member is provided with a first guide groove extending in a first direction, and a plurality of first pivots abut against the first sidewalls of the first guide groove in a second direction and are movable in the first guide groove in the first direction. The second constraint member is provided with a second guide groove extending in the first direction, and a plurality of second pivots abut against the second sidewalls of the second guide groove in the second direction and are movable in the second guide groove in the first direction.
[0007] For example, the constraint assembly further includes a first constraint guide rail extending along a second direction, and a first constraint member and a second constraint member are slidably disposed on the first constraint guide rail.
[0008] For example, the constraint component further includes a second constraint guide rail extending along a first direction, and the first constraint guide rail is slidably disposed on the second constraint guide rail along the first direction.
[0009] For example, the first guide groove has a pair of first end walls spaced apart along a first direction, and a first pivot is movable between the first end walls along the first direction; the second guide groove has a pair of second end walls spaced apart along the first direction, and a second pivot is movable between the second end walls along the first direction.
[0010] For example, the telescopic support assembly further includes a first planar bearing, which is sleeved on each of the first, second, and third pivots and clamped between the corresponding first and second rods in the axial direction of the pivot on which it is sleeved.
[0011] For example, the second rod is located axially between the first rod and the connecting base, and a first limiting block is provided at one end of the third pivot facing away from the connecting base. The telescopic bracket assembly also includes a second planar bearing and a third planar bearing sleeved on the third pivot. The second planar bearing is clamped axially between the second rod and the connecting base, and the third planar bearing is clamped axially between the first rod and the first limiting block. And / or a second limiting block is provided at one end of each of the first and second pivots facing away from the connecting base, and a third limiting block and a fourth limiting block are sequentially provided toward the connecting base. The first rod and the second rod are clamped between the third limiting block and the fourth limiting block. A first constraint member is connected to the portion of the first pivot located between the second limiting block and the third limiting block, and a second constraint member is connected to the portion of the second pivot located between the second limiting block and the third limiting block.
[0012] For example, the driving component includes a first driving component and a second driving component, and the plurality of connecting bases include a first connecting base and a second connecting base located at both ends along a first direction. The first driving component is connected to the first connecting base, and the second driving component is connected to the second connecting base.
[0013] For example, the first driving component has a first driving speed for driving the first connecting base to move along the first direction, the second driving component has a second driving speed for driving the second connecting base to move along the first direction, and the overall movement of the plurality of connecting bases along the first direction under the drive of the first driving component and the second driving component is achieved by making the difference between the first driving speed and the second driving speed equal to zero; and / or the spacing of the plurality of connecting bases along the first direction is adjustable by making the difference between the first driving speed and the second driving speed not equal to zero.
[0014] For example, the pitch adjustment device further includes a variable pitch guide rail extending along a first direction, and each of the plurality of connecting bases is provided with a slider slidably connected to the variable pitch guide rail.
[0015] For example, the variable pitch guide rail includes multiple rails spaced apart along the second direction, and the sliders on adjacent connecting bases are slidably connected to different variable pitch guide rails, and the projections of the sliders on adjacent connecting bases on a plane perpendicular to the first direction are completely staggered.
[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, a pipetting device is also provided. The pipetting device includes pipetting channels and any of the above-mentioned spacing adjustment devices, wherein the pipetting channels are correspondingly arranged on a plurality of connecting bases.
[0017] For example, each of the plurality of pipetting channels includes a pipette and a pipette driver connected to the pipette. The pipette driver is used to drive the pipette to move in a second direction. The pipette drivers are disposed one-to-one on a plurality of connecting bases. The pipette drivers of the plurality of pipetting channels are configured as multiple groups arranged along a third direction. Each group includes multiple pipette drivers arranged along a first direction. The pipette drivers of adjacent groups are staggered along the first direction. The third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.
[0018] In practical applications, when adjusting the spacing of multiple connecting bases along a first direction, without a constraint component, the gaps between the first and second rods and each pivot, necessary for pivoting, would result in a loose structure of the telescopic support assembly, making it impossible to effectively control the positions of individual components and leading to deviations in the spacing of the multiple connecting bases. However, with the first constraint component, the multiple first pivots are constrained to align along the first direction, thus suppressing positional deviations caused by the aforementioned gaps and ensuring more precise positioning of the multiple first pivots. Simultaneously, the second constraint component constrains the multiple second pivots to align along the first direction, suppressing positional deviations caused by the aforementioned gaps and ensuring more precise positioning of the multiple second pivots. Thus, the positions of both the first and second pivots can be effectively controlled. Furthermore, since the first and second rods are rigid components, the overall structure of the telescopic support assembly can be more compact without affecting pivoting, and the positions of each pivot can be more precise. Consequently, the positions of the multiple connecting bases positioned on the third pivot can be effectively controlled, enabling more precise spacing adjustment. In this way, the spacing adjustment device can ensure that the relevant components connected to multiple connection bases can accurately control the spacing, thus making it suitable for scenarios with high positional accuracy requirements.
[0019] This utility model description introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This utility model description is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.
[0020] The advantages and features of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description
[0021] The following drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference as part of this invention, are provided for understanding the invention. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and their descriptions, serving to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings,
[0022] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a pipetting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of the spacing adjustment device, in which the connecting base and telescopic bracket assembly are detached for illustration purposes.
[0024] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A perspective view of the constraint components shown in the figure; and
[0025] Figure 4 for Figure 2 The image shows a perspective view of the telescopic support assembly.
[0026] The above figures include the following reference numerals:
[0027] 100. Spacing adjustment device; 200. Connecting base; 210. First connecting base; 220. Second connecting base; 300. Telescopic bracket assembly; 311. First pivot; 312. Second pivot; 313. Third pivot; 314. Threaded end; 315. First constrained section; 320. Rod assembly; 321. First rod; 322. Second rod; 331. First plane bearing; 332. Second plane bearing; 333. Third plane bearing; 341. First limiting block; 342. Second limiting block; 343. Third limiting block; 344. Fourth limiting block; 400. Drive assembly; 410. First drive... 411. First motor; 412. First belt drive mechanism; 420. Second drive assembly; 421. Second motor; 422. Second belt drive mechanism; 500. Constraint assembly; 510. First constraint member; 511. First guide groove; 512. First side wall; 513. First end wall; 520. Second constraint member; 521. Second guide groove; 522. Second side wall; 523. Second end wall; 530. First constraint guide rail; 540. Second constraint guide rail; 600. Variable pitch guide rail; 610. Sliding member; 700. Pipette channel; 710. Pipette; 720. Pipette drive component. Detailed Implementation
[0028] In the following description, numerous details are provided to enable a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the following description merely illustrates preferred embodiments of the present invention, which may be practiced without one or more of these details. Furthermore, to avoid confusion with the present invention, some technical features well-known in the art have not been described in detail.
[0029] According to one aspect of the present invention, a spacing adjustment device is provided. The spacing adjustment device can adjust the spacing between multiple connecting bases. The spacing adjustment device can be applied to any suitable device, including but not limited to pipetting devices. Therefore, according to another aspect of the present invention, a pipetting device is also provided. The pipetting device can perform pipetting and other processing on liquids. The liquid includes, but is not limited to, sample solutions or pharmaceuticals. The spacing adjustment device and pipetting device of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0030] like Figure 1-4As shown, the spacing adjustment device 100 may include a connecting base 200, a telescopic support assembly 300, a drive assembly 400, and a constraint assembly 500.
[0031] The connecting base 200 may include multiple bases, such as two, three, or more. Different connecting bases 200 may have the same or different structures. Multiple connecting bases 200 may be arranged along a first direction XX. The connecting base 200 may be used to connect other components besides the spacing adjustment device 100 for adjusting the spacing of those components. These components include, but are not limited to, test tubes, grippers, or suction cups. In embodiments where the spacing adjustment device 100 is applied to a pipetting apparatus, a pipetting channel 700 may be connected to the connecting base 200. The pipetting channels 700 may be arranged one-to-one on multiple connecting bases 200. The pipetting channels 700 may be used for pipetting. Thus, the connecting base 200 can drive the pipetting channels 700 to adjust the spacing. Exemplarily, the connecting base 200 may include a first connecting base 210 and a second connecting base 220. The positional relationship between the first connecting base 210 and the second connecting base 220 can be arbitrary; for example, they may be adjacent, spaced apart by one connecting base 200, or spaced apart by more connecting bases 200. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the first connecting base 210 and the second connecting base 220 may be located at both ends of the connecting base 200 along the first direction XX.
[0032] The telescopic support assembly 300 can connect multiple connecting bases 200 together. Specifically, the telescopic support assembly 300 may include multiple first pivots 311, multiple second pivots 312, multiple third pivots 313, and multiple rod groups 320. The third pivot 313 may be located between the first pivots 311 and the second pivots 312 along a second direction YY. The second direction YY may be perpendicular to the first direction XX. For example, the first direction XX may be horizontal. The second direction YY may be vertical. The multiple rod groups 320 may be arranged along the first direction XX. Each rod group 320 may include a first rod 321 and a second rod 322. The first rod 321 and the second rod 322 of the rod group 320 are pivotally connected to the third pivot 313, respectively. Thus, the first rod 321 and the second rod 322 may intersect and pivot relative to each other. Along the first direction XX, the middle rod group 320 can generally be in the shape of "X"; the end rod group 320 can be either in the shape of "<" or "X".
[0033] Multiple connecting bases 200 can be correspondingly mounted on the third pivot 313. Along the first direction XX, the first rod 321 and the second rod 322 of the adjacent rod group 320 are pivotally connected to the first pivot 311. Along the first direction XX, the second rod 322 and the first rod 321 of the adjacent rod group 320 are pivotally connected to the second pivot 312.
[0034] The drive assembly 400 can be connected to at least one of the plurality of connecting bases 200 (e.g., the first connecting base 210) by any suitable method such as welding, snap-fitting, or connector connection. The drive assembly 400 can drive the connected base 200 to move along a first direction XX, thereby moving the plurality of connecting bases 200 through the telescopic bracket assembly 300, and thus adjusting the spacing of the plurality of connecting bases 200 along the first direction XX. The drive assembly 400 can adopt various types of drive assemblies known in the art or that may appear in the future, including but not limited to motor drive assemblies, cylinder drive assemblies, or electric cylinder drive assemblies.
[0035] The constraint assembly 500 may include a first constraint member 510 and a second constraint member 520. The first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520 may be arranged along a second direction YY. The first constraint member 510 may be connected to a plurality of first pivots 311 to constrain the plurality of first pivots 311 to be arranged along a first direction XX. The first constraint member 510 includes, but is not limited to, constraint grippers, constraint guides, or constraint stops, as long as they can achieve the above functions. The second constraint member 520 may be connected to a plurality of second pivots 312 to constrain the plurality of second pivots 312 to be arranged along a first direction XX. The second constraint member 520 includes, but is not limited to, constraint grippers, constraint guides, or constraint stops, as long as they can achieve the above functions. The structures of the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520 may be the same or different.
[0036] In practical applications, when the spacing adjustment device 100 adjusts the spacing of multiple connecting bases 200 along the first direction XX, if the constraint component 500 is not provided, the gaps between the first rod 321 and the second rod 322 and each pivot will inevitably exist for pivoting. These gaps will cause the structure of the telescopic support assembly 300 to be relatively loose, and the positions of each component cannot be effectively controlled, resulting in deviations in the spacing of the multiple connecting bases 200. However, with the first constraint component 510 provided, the first constraint component 510 can constrain the multiple first pivots 311 to be arranged along the first direction XX, thereby suppressing positional deviations caused by the aforementioned gaps and ensuring that the positions of the multiple first pivots 311 are more accurate. At the same time, the second constraint component 520 can constrain the multiple second pivots 312 to be arranged along the first direction XX, thereby suppressing positional deviations caused by the aforementioned gaps and ensuring that the positions of the multiple second pivots 312 are more accurate. Thus, the positions of both the first pivot 311 and the second pivot 312 can be effectively controlled. Furthermore, since the first rod 321 and the second rod 322 are rigid components, the overall structure of the telescopic support assembly 300 can be relatively compact without affecting pivoting, and the positions of each pivot can be quite precise. Consequently, the positions of the multiple connecting bases 200 mounted on the third pivot 313 can be effectively controlled, allowing for precise adjustment of the spacing. In this way, the spacing adjustment device 100 ensures that the relevant components connected to the multiple connecting bases 200 precisely control the spacing, making it suitable for scenarios requiring precise positioning.
[0037] For example, a first guide groove 511 may be provided on the first constraint member 510. The first guide groove 511 may extend along a first direction XX. Along a second direction YY, the first guide groove 511 may have a pair of opposing first sidewalls 512. A plurality of first pivots 311 may be inserted into the first guide groove 511 and abut against the pair of first sidewalls 512. With this configuration, when the plurality of connecting bases 200 adjust their spacing along the first direction XX, the plurality of first pivots 311 may move along the first direction XX within the first guide groove 511. Furthermore, since the first sidewalls 512 abut against the plurality of first pivots 311, the plurality of first pivots 311 may be constrained to be arranged along the first direction XX. Similarly, a second guide groove 521 may be provided on the second constraint member 520. The second guide groove 521 may extend along the first direction XX. Along the second direction YY, the second guide groove 521 may have a pair of opposing second sidewalls 522. Multiple second pivots 312 can be inserted into the second guide groove 521 and abut against a pair of second sidewalls 522. With this configuration, when the multiple connecting bases 200 adjust their spacing along the first direction XX, the multiple second pivots 312 can move along the first direction XX within the second guide groove 521. Furthermore, since the second sidewalls 522 abut against the multiple second pivots 312, they can be constrained to align along the first direction XX. This configuration results in a simpler structure for the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520, lower manufacturing costs, and easier installation and disassembly. Moreover, since both the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520 extend along the first direction XX, their space occupied along the second direction YY is relatively small; therefore, the size of the spacing adjustment device 100 along the second direction YY is smaller.
[0038] Exemplarily, the constraint assembly 500 may further include a first constraint guide rail 530. The first constraint guide rail 530 may extend along a second direction YY. A first constraint member 510 and a second constraint member 520 are slidably disposed on the first constraint guide rail 530, respectively. With this configuration, when the spacing between the plurality of connecting bases 200 along the first direction XX decreases, the first pivot 311 and the second pivot 312 may move away from each other along the second direction YY. Thus, the first pivot 311 and the second pivot 312 may cause the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520 to slide along the first constraint guide rail 530, respectively, to move away from each other along the second direction YY. When the spacing between the plurality of connecting bases 200 along the first direction XX increases, the first pivot 311 and the second pivot 312 may move closer to each other along the second direction YY. Thus, the first pivot 311 and the second pivot 312 may cause the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520 to slide along the first constraint guide rail 530, respectively, to move closer to each other along the second direction YY. In this way, the first constraint guide rail 530 can guide the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520, ensuring that the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520 move in the second direction YY with high linearity and stability.
[0039] Exemplarily, the first constraint guide rail 530 may include any suitable number, such as one, two, or more. In embodiments where multiple first constraint guide rails 530 are included, the multiple first constraint guide rails 530 may be spaced apart along a first direction XX. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first constraint guide rail 530 may include two. The first constraint member 510 is slidably disposed on the two first constraint guide rails 530 at both ends along the first direction XX. The second constraint member 520 is slidably disposed on the two first constraint guide rails 530 at both ends along the first direction XX.
[0040] Exemplarily, the constraint assembly 500 may further include a second constraint guide rail 540. The second constraint guide rail 540 may extend along a first direction XX. A first constraint guide rail 530 is slidably disposed on the second constraint guide rail 540 along the first direction XX. With this configuration, when the spacing adjustment device 100 moves as a whole along the first direction XX, a person can drive the first constraint guide rail 530 to slide along the second constraint guide rail 540. Thus, the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520 can always constrain the first pivot 311 and the second pivot 312. Furthermore, the second constraint guide rail 540 can guide the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520 through the first constraint guide rail 530, ensuring high linearity and stability of the movement of the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520 along the first direction XX.
[0041] Exemplarily, the second constraint guide rail 540 may include any suitable number, such as one, two, or more. In embodiments where multiple second constraint guide rails 540 are included, the multiple second constraint guide rails 540 may be spaced apart along the second direction YY. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the second constraint guide rail 540 may include two. The two ends of the first constraint guide rail 530 along the second direction YY are respectively slidably disposed on the two second constraint guide rails 540.
[0042] Exemplarily, the first guide groove 511 may have a pair of first end walls 513 spaced apart along the first direction XX. A pair of first side walls 512 and a pair of first end walls 513 may enclose and form the first guide groove 511. A first pivot 311 may move along the first direction XX between the pair of first end walls 513. The second guide groove 521 may have a pair of second end walls 523 spaced apart along the first direction XX. A pair of second side walls 522 and a pair of second end walls 523 may enclose and form the second guide groove 521. A second pivot 312 may move along the first direction XX between the pair of second end walls 523. With this configuration, when the spacing adjustment device 100 moves as a whole along the first direction XX, when the first pivot 311 and the second pivot 312 respectively abut against the first end wall 513 and the second end wall 523, the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520 may be moved along the first direction XX. In this way, the first constraint member 510 and the second constraint member 520 do not require driving by relevant personnel, thereby enabling self-constraint of the first pivot 311 and the second pivot 312.
[0043] Exemplarily, the telescopic support assembly 300 may further include a first planar bearing 331. The first planar bearing 331 may be sleeved on each of the first pivot 311, the second pivot 312, and the third pivot 313. Furthermore, the first planar bearing 331 may be clamped between corresponding first rods 321 and second rods 322 along the axial direction of the pivot on which it is sleeved. The axial direction of the pivot may be perpendicular to a first direction XX and a second direction YY. That is, the first planar bearing 331 is clamped between each intersecting first rod 321 and second rod 322. If the first planar bearing 331 is not provided, a certain gap must exist between the first rods 321 and second rods 322 in the axial direction for smooth pivoting. However, this gap will still cause the telescopic support assembly 300 to be structurally loose, resulting in deviations in the spacing of the multiple connecting bases 200. By incorporating a first planar bearing 331 clamped between the first rod 321 and the second rod 322, smooth pivoting can be ensured, and axial clearance can be eliminated, thereby further improving the accuracy of the spacing between the multiple connecting bases 200. By selecting different first planar bearings 331, the damping of pivoting between the first rod 321 and the second rod 322 can be adjusted, thus improving the user experience.
[0044] For example, along the axial direction, the second rod 322 can be located between the first rod 321 and the connecting base 200. Along the axial direction, a first limiting block 341 can be provided at one end of the third pivot 313 facing away from the connecting base 200. The first limiting block 341 can protrude from the third pivot 313 in the radial direction. The telescopic bracket assembly 300 may also include a second planar bearing 332 and a third planar bearing 333. The second planar bearing 332 and the third planar bearing 333 can be respectively sleeved on the third pivot 313. Along the axial direction, the second planar bearing 332 can be clamped between the second rod 322 and the connecting base 200. Along the axial direction, the third planar bearing 333 can be clamped between the first rod 321 and the first limiting block 341. This arrangement simplifies the structure by clamping the first planar bearing 331 axially between the first rod 321 and the second rod 322, facilitating installation and manufacturing. Furthermore, the second plane bearing 332 and the third plane bearing 333 can also function as the first plane bearing 331, thereby further improving the accuracy of the spacing between the multiple connecting bases 200.
[0045] For example, a screw can be used to construct the third pivot 313 and the first limiting block 341. Specifically, the screw nut can be the first limiting block 341, the screw shank can be the third pivot 313, and the screw threaded end 314 can be threaded to the connecting base 200. In actual installation, the third plane bearing 333, the first rod 321, the second rod 322, and the second plane bearing 332 can be sequentially fitted onto the screw shank, and then the threaded end 314 can be threaded to the connecting base 200, thereby clamping the above components.
[0046] For example, each of the first pivot 311 and the second pivot 312 may have a second limiting block 342 at one end facing away from the connecting base 200, and a third limiting block 343 and a fourth limiting block 344 may be sequentially provided facing the connecting base 200. That is, the second limiting block 342, the third limiting block 343, and the fourth limiting block 344 can gradually approach the connecting base 200. The second limiting block 342, the third limiting block 343, and the fourth limiting block 344 may protrude from the connecting pivot in the radial direction along the pivot to which they are connected. The first rod 321 and the second rod 322 can be clamped between the third limiting block 343 and the fourth limiting block 344, thereby enabling the first planar bearing 331 to be clamped between the first rod 321 and the second rod 322. This configuration is simple in structure and easy to install and manufacture. The first pivot 311 may have a portion located between the second limiting block 342 and the third limiting block 343 (defined as the first constrained segment 315). The first constraint member 510 can be connected to the first constrained segment 315. In an embodiment where the first constraint member 510 is provided with a first guide groove 511, the first constrained segment 315 can be inserted into the first guide groove 511 and abut against a pair of first sidewalls 512. The second limiting block 342 and the third limiting block 343 can limit the first constraint member 510 in the axial direction, thereby preventing the first constraint member 510 from disengaging in the axial direction. Similarly, the second pivot 312 can have a portion located between the second limiting block 342 and the third limiting block 343 (defined as the second constrained segment). The second constraint member 520 can be connected to the second constrained segment. In an embodiment where the second constraint member 520 is provided with a second guide groove 521, the second constrained segment can be inserted into the second guide groove 521 and abut against a pair of second sidewalls 522. The second limiting block 342 and the third limiting block 343 can limit the second constraint member 520 in the axial direction, thereby preventing the second constraint member 520 from detaching in the axial direction.
[0047] For example, a screw can be used to construct the first pivot 311 and the second limiting block 342. Specifically, the nut of the screw can be the second limiting block 342, and the shank of the screw can be the first pivot 311. The third limiting block 343 and the fourth limiting block 344 can be constructed as nuts threaded to the screw. The shank of the screw can have a large-diameter section and a small-diameter section. The third limiting block 343 can be threaded to the large-diameter section, and the fourth limiting block 344 can be threaded to the small-diameter section. In actual installation, the first constraint member 510 and the third limiting block 343 can be sequentially fitted onto the large-diameter section of the first pivot 311. Then, the third limiting block 343 can be threaded to the large-diameter section, thereby limiting the first constraint member 510 with the second limiting block 342. Then, the first flat bearing 331 can be sequentially fitted onto the small-diameter section of the first pivot 311. The fourth limiting block 344 can then be threaded onto the small-diameter section, thereby clamping the first rod 321 and the second rod 322 together with the third limiting block 343, and further clamping the first planar bearing 331 between the first rod 321 and the second rod 322. Similarly, the second pivot 312 and the second limiting block 342 can be constructed using screws. The structure and principle of constructing the second pivot 312 and the second limiting block 342 using screws can be referred to the first pivot 311 and the second limiting block 342, and will not be elaborated further for the sake of simplicity.
[0048] For example, the drive assembly 400 may include a first drive assembly 410 and a second drive assembly 420. The first connecting base 210 and the second connecting base 220 may be located at opposite ends of the plurality of connecting bases 200 along a first direction XX. The first drive assembly 410 may be connected to the first connecting base 210. The second drive assembly 420 may be connected to the second connecting base 220. The first drive assembly 410 may drive the first connecting base 210 to move along the first direction XX, thereby allowing the spacing between the plurality of connecting bases 200 to be adjusted via the telescopic bracket assembly 300. Alternatively, the second drive assembly 420 may drive the second connecting base 220 to move along the first direction XX, thereby allowing the spacing between the plurality of connecting bases 200 to be adjusted via the telescopic bracket assembly 300. Alternatively, the first drive assembly 410 may drive the first connecting base 210 to move along the first direction XX, and the second drive assembly 420 may drive the second connecting base 220 to move along the first direction XX, thereby allowing the spacing between the plurality of connecting bases 200 to be adjusted simultaneously via the telescopic bracket assembly 300. This configuration reduces the time required to adjust the spacing between the multiple connecting bases 200, thus saving time and costs. The first drive assembly 410 can employ various types of drive assemblies known in the art or likely to emerge in the future, including but not limited to motor drive assemblies, cylinder drive assemblies, or electric cylinder drive assemblies. The second drive assembly 420 can employ various types of drive assemblies known in the art or likely to emerge in the future, including but not limited to motor drive assemblies, cylinder drive assemblies, or electric cylinder drive assemblies. The structures of the first drive assembly 410 and the second drive assembly 420 can be the same or different.
[0049] For example, the first drive component 410 may have a first drive speed that drives the first connecting base 210 to move along the first direction XX. The second drive component 420 may have a second drive speed that drives the second connecting base 220 to move along the first direction XX. When the difference between the first drive speed and the second drive speed is zero, the multiple connecting bases 200 can move as a whole along the first direction XX. It should be noted that since velocity is a vector, when the value and direction of the first drive speed are exactly the same as the value and direction of the second drive speed, the difference between the first drive speed and the second drive speed can be zero. In this way, the first drive component 410 and the second drive component 420 can drive the first connecting base 210 and the second connecting base 220 to move synchronously along the first direction XX, respectively. Thus, under the drive of the telescopic bracket assembly 300, the multiple connecting bases 200 can move as a whole along the first direction XX.
[0050] For example, when the difference between the first driving speed and the second driving speed is not equal to zero, the spacing of multiple connecting bases 200 along the first direction XX can be adjusted. It should be noted that the difference between the first driving speed and the second driving speed may not be equal to zero when the values of the first driving speed and the second driving speed are different, and / or when the directions of the first driving speed and the second driving speed are different. Specifically, when the values of the first driving speed and the second driving speed are different, and the directions of the first driving speed and the second driving speed are the same, the first connecting base 210 and the second connecting base 220 can move in the same direction, and they can move closer or further apart. When the values of the first driving speed and the second driving speed are the same, and the directions of the first driving speed and the second driving speed are different, the first connecting base 210 and the second connecting base 220 can move in opposite directions or towards each other, thereby moving closer or further apart. When the values of the first driving speed and the second driving speed are different, and the directions of the first driving speed and the second driving speed are different, the first connecting base 210 and the second connecting base 220 can move in opposite directions or towards each other, thereby moving closer to or further away from each other.
[0051] For example, the first drive assembly 410 may include a first motor 411 and a first belt drive mechanism 412. The first belt drive mechanism 412 may be connected between the first motor 411 and the first connecting base 210. The first motor 411 can drive the first connecting base 210 to move along a first direction XX via the first belt drive mechanism 412. The first belt drive mechanism 412 may have many advantages such as shock absorption, vibration absorption, smooth operation, and low noise. Furthermore, the first belt drive mechanism 412 occupies less space along the second direction YY, thereby reducing the size of the pitch adjustment device 100 along the second direction YY. Similarly, the second drive assembly 420 may include a second motor 421 and a second belt drive mechanism 422. The second belt drive mechanism 422 may be connected between the second motor 421 and the second connecting base 220. The second motor 421 can drive the second connecting base 220 to move along the first direction XX via the second belt drive mechanism 422. The second belt drive mechanism 422 may have many advantages such as shock absorption, vibration absorption, smooth operation, and low noise. Furthermore, the second belt drive mechanism 422 occupies less space along the second direction YY, thereby reducing the size of the pitch adjustment device 100 along the second direction YY.
[0052] For example, the first motor 411 and the second motor 421 can be located on the same side of the plurality of connecting bases 200 along the first direction XX. With this arrangement, the spacing adjustment device 100 can have centralized wiring, thereby improving space utilization. Furthermore, the spacing adjustment device 100 has a smaller size along the second direction YY.
[0053] Exemplarily, the pitch adjustment device 100 may further include a variable pitch guide rail 600. The variable pitch guide rail 600 may extend along a first direction XX. Each of the plurality of connecting bases 200 may be provided with a slider 610. The slider 610 is slidably connected to the variable pitch guide rail 600. Driven by the drive assembly 400, each of the plurality of connecting bases 200 may slide along the variable pitch guide rail 600 via the slider 610. The variable pitch guide rail 600 can provide good guidance for the plurality of connecting bases 200, ensuring good linearity and stability of the movement of the plurality of connecting bases 200 along the first direction XX.
[0054] Exemplarily, the variable pitch guide rails 600 may include any suitable number, such as one, two, or more. In embodiments where multiple variable pitch guide rails 600 are included, the multiple variable pitch guide rails 600 may be spaced apart along the second direction YY. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the variable pitch guide rails 600 may include four. Slider members 610 on adjacent connecting bases 200 are slidably connected to different variable pitch guide rails 600. Furthermore, the projections of the slider members 610 on adjacent connecting bases 200 onto a plane perpendicular to the first direction XX may be completely staggered. Figure 1 Taking the embodiment shown as an example, the slider 610 on the leftmost second connecting base 220 is slidably connected to the first and third variable-pitch guide rails 600 from top to bottom. The slider 610 on the connecting base 200 adjacent to the second connecting base 220 is slidably connected to the second and fourth variable-pitch guide rails 600 from top to bottom. In the prior art, the minimum distance between adjacent connecting bases is limited by the dimension of the sliders on both along the first direction XX; that is, at the minimum distance, the sliders on both are in contact with each other. In contrast, in this embodiment, as the connecting base 200 slides along the variable-pitch guide rail 600, the sliders on adjacent connecting bases 200 are not affected by each other. Even when adjacent connecting bases 200 are at their minimum distance, the sliders 610 on both may not be in contact with each other. Adjacent connecting bases 200 can be as close as possible. Therefore, the distance between connecting bases 200 is smaller.
[0055] For example, such as Figure 1As shown, in an embodiment where the spacing adjustment device 100 is applied to a pipetting apparatus, each of the plurality of pipetting channels 700 may include a pipette 710 and a pipette driver 720. The pipette driver 720 can drive the pipette 710 to move along a second direction YY to facilitate pipetting. The pipette driver 720 includes, but is not limited to, a motor. The pipette drivers 720 can be arranged one-to-one on the connecting base 200. In this way, the connecting base 200 can drive the pipette 710 and the pipette driver 720 to move synchronously, thereby adjusting the spacing of the pipettes 710 along the first direction XX. The pipette drivers 720 of the plurality of pipetting channels 700 can be configured as multiple groups. The multiple groups can be arranged along a third direction ZZ. Each group may include a plurality of pipette drivers 720 arranged along the first direction XX. Furthermore, the pipette drivers 720 of adjacent groups can be staggered along the first direction XX. Since the size of the pipette drive 720 is typically large, this design allows the pipette drive 720 to fully utilize the space between other pipette drives 720, thereby reducing the overall space occupied by all pipette drives 720 and making the pipetting device more compact. The third direction ZZ can be perpendicular to the first direction XX and the second direction YY. The third direction ZZ can be any of the aforementioned axial directions.
[0056] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the directional terms such as "front", "rear", "up", "down", "left", "right", "horizontal", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", and "bottom" indicate the orientation or positional relationship, which are usually based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this utility model. The directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours of each component itself.
[0057] For ease of description, relative terms such as "above," "over," "on the upper surface of," and "above" are used here to describe the regional positional relationship of one or more components or features shown in the figures to other components or features. It should be understood that relative terms include not only the orientation of the component as depicted in the figure but also different orientations during use or operation. For example, if the components in the figures are inverted as a whole, "above" or "above other components or features" will include cases where the component is "below" or "under" other components or features. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." Furthermore, these components or features may also be positioned at other different angles (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or other angles), and this document intends to include all such cases.
[0058] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or combinations thereof.
[0059] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.
[0060] This utility model has been described through the above embodiments. However, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the utility model to the described embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that this utility model is not limited to the above embodiments, and many more variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of this utility model, all of which fall within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model. The scope of protection of this utility model is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. A spacing adjustment device, characterized in that, include: Multiple connecting bases, the multiple connecting bases being arranged along a first direction; A telescopic support assembly includes multiple first pivots, multiple second pivots, multiple third pivots, and multiple rod groups arranged along a first direction. The third pivots are located between the first pivots and the second pivots along a second direction. Each rod group includes a first rod and a second rod. The first rod and the second rod of the rod group are pivotally connected to the third pivot, respectively. The multiple connecting bases are correspondingly disposed on the third pivot. The first rod and the second rod of the adjacent rod group are pivotally connected to the first pivot, and the second rod and the first rod of the adjacent rod group are pivotally connected to the second pivot, respectively. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. A drive assembly connected to at least one of the plurality of connection bases, such that the spacing of the plurality of connection bases along the first direction is adjustable; as well as A constraint assembly, comprising a first constraint member and a second constraint member, the first constraint member being connected to a plurality of first pivots to constrain the plurality of first pivots to be arranged along a first direction, and the second constraint member being connected to a plurality of second pivots to constrain the plurality of second pivots to be arranged along the first direction.
2. The spacing adjustment device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first constraint member is provided with a first guide groove extending along the first direction, and a plurality of first pivots abut against the first sidewalls of the first guide groove along the second direction and are movable within the first guide groove along the first direction. The second constraint member is provided with a second guide groove extending along the first direction, and a plurality of second pivots abut against the second sidewalls of the second guide groove along the second direction and are movable within the second guide groove along the first direction.
3. The spacing adjustment device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The constraint assembly further includes a first constraint guide rail extending along the second direction, wherein the first constraint member and the second constraint member are slidably disposed on the first constraint guide rail.
4. The spacing adjustment device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The constraint component further includes a second constraint guide rail extending along the first direction, and the first constraint guide rail is slidably disposed on the second constraint guide rail along the first direction.
5. The spacing adjustment device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first guide groove has a pair of first end walls spaced apart along the first direction, and the first pivot is movable between the first end walls along the first direction. The second guide groove has a pair of second end walls spaced apart along the first direction, and the second pivot is movable between the second end walls along the first direction.
6. The spacing adjustment device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The telescopic support assembly further includes a first planar bearing, which is sleeved on each of the first pivot, the second pivot, and the third pivot and clamped between the corresponding first rod and the second rod along the axial direction of the pivot on which it is sleeved.
7. The spacing adjustment device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The second rod is located between the first rod and the connecting base along the axial direction. A first limiting block is provided at one end of the third pivot facing away from the connecting base. The telescopic bracket assembly further includes a second planar bearing and a third planar bearing sleeved on the third pivot. The second planar bearing is clamped between the second rod and the connecting base along the axial direction, and the third planar bearing is clamped between the first rod and the first limiting block along the axial direction; and / or Each of the first pivot and the second pivot has a second limiting block at one end facing away from the connecting base, and a third limiting block and a fourth limiting block are sequentially provided facing the connecting base. The first rod and the second rod are clamped between the third limiting block and the fourth limiting block. The first constraint member is connected to the portion of the first pivot located between the second limiting block and the third limiting block, and the second constraint member is connected to the portion of the second pivot located between the second limiting block and the third limiting block.
8. The spacing adjustment device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The driving component includes a first driving component and a second driving component, and the plurality of connecting bases include a first connecting base and a second connecting base located at both ends along the first direction. The first driving component is connected to the first connecting base, and the second driving component is connected to the second connecting base.
9. The spacing adjustment device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The first driving component has a first driving speed for moving the first connecting base along the first direction, and the second driving component has a second driving speed for moving the second connecting base along the first direction. The collective movement of the plurality of connecting bases along the first direction under the drive of the first driving component and the second driving component is achieved by making the difference between the first driving speed and the second driving speed equal to zero; and / or The spacing between the plurality of connecting bases along the first direction is adjustable by ensuring that the difference between the first driving speed and the second driving speed is not equal to zero.
10. The spacing adjustment device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The pitch adjustment device further includes a variable pitch guide rail extending along the first direction, and each of the plurality of connecting bases is provided with a slider that is slidably connected to the variable pitch guide rail.
11. The spacing adjustment device as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The variable pitch guide rail includes multiple rails spaced apart along the second direction. Sliding members on adjacent connecting bases are slidably connected to different variable pitch guide rails, and the projections of the sliding members on adjacent connecting bases on a plane perpendicular to the first direction are completely staggered.
12. A pipetting device, characterized in that, It includes pipetting channels and a spacing adjustment device as described in any one of claims 1-11, wherein the pipetting channels are respectively disposed on the plurality of connecting bases.
13. The pipetting device as described in claim 12, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of pipetting channels includes a pipette and a pipette driver connected to the pipette. The pipette driver is used to drive the pipette to move along the second direction. The pipette drivers are disposed one-to-one on the plurality of connecting bases. The pipette drivers of the plurality of pipetting channels are constructed as multiple groups arranged along a third direction. Each group includes multiple pipette drivers arranged along the first direction. The pipette drivers of adjacent groups are staggered along the first direction. The third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.