Pipettor and sample analyzer

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model provides a pipettor and a sample analyzer, and the pipettor comprises a loading assembly, an unloading assembly and a driving assembly; the loading assembly comprises a loading part and a separating part which are both movable, the loading part moves to realize the loading of the connection of the loading part and the pipette tip, and the loading part and the separating part move relatively to realize the unloading of the separating part for separating the pipette tip from the loading part; the unloading assembly moves to apply acting force to the separating part in the unloading process, and the acting force enables the loading part and the separating part to move relative to each other; the driving assembly is used for providing driving force for movement of the loading piece and movement of the unloading assembly. The pipettor provided by the embodiment of the utility model is relatively simple in structure and reliable in performance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a pipette and sample analyzer. Background Technology

[0002] A pipette tip (TIP) is a pipette tip used for quantitative aspiration and dispensing of liquids, and is usually used in conjunction with a sample analyzer.

[0003] Since tiplets are consumables, they need to be loaded and unloaded during use. Related technologies offer both manual and automatic tiplet loading and unloading methods. Manual loading is available in various sizes depending on throughput; users must manually adjust the aspiration volume, aspirate, and then manually unload the tip. The manual loading and unloading process is cumbersome, inefficient, and prone to inaccurate aspiration due to human error. Automatic loading and unloading utilizes a dedicated loading and unloading mechanism on the sample analyzer, using electronic control. While automatic loading and unloading is efficient and efficient, the loading and unloading mechanisms on the sample analyzer are complex, costly, and difficult to maintain. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of this, the embodiments of this application aim to provide a pipette and sample analyzer with a relatively simple structure and reliable performance.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, one embodiment of this application provides a pipette, comprising:

[0006] A loading assembly includes a movable loading member and a separating member. The loading member is moved to load the pipette tip into place, and the relative movement between the loading member and the separating member is used to unload the pipette tip from the loading member.

[0007] An unloading component, which moves to apply a force to the separator during the unloading process, causing relative movement between the loading component and the separator;

[0008] A drive component, the drive component being used to provide driving force for the movement of the loading component and the movement of the unloading component, respectively.

[0009] Another embodiment of this application provides a sample analyzer, including a dispensing component, a nucleic acid extraction component, an amplification component, and a detection component, wherein the dispensing component includes at least one pipette as described above;

[0010] The pipette is used at least to dispense nucleic acid extraction reagents into the nucleic acid extraction container;

[0011] The nucleic acid extraction component is used to extract nucleic acid from a mixture containing at least the sample and the nucleic acid extraction reagent loaded in the nucleic acid extraction container to obtain a nucleic acid extract.

[0012] The amplification component is used to amplify the nucleic acid extract to obtain the test solution;

[0013] The detection device is used to detect the test liquid.

[0014] This application provides a pipette and a sample analyzer. The pipette mainly achieves the loading and unloading of pipette tips through the cooperation of a loading component, an unloading component, and a driving component. The pipette has a relatively simple structure, low cost, and is easy to maintain. At the same time, the pipette's performance is also relatively reliable, and it can efficiently realize automated loading and unloading functions. Therefore, the pipette of this application has a high cost performance. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a sample analyzer according to an embodiment of this application;

[0016] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the sample analyzer, with the loading rod in the loaded state having a pipette tip attached.

[0017] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the sample analyzer from another perspective;

[0018] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of a section at point A in the middle;

[0019] Figure 5 for Figure 3 A magnified view of a section at point B in the middle;

[0020] Figure 6 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the loading assembly, with the separator in its initial position.

[0021] Figure 7 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the loading assembly. The loading component in the diagram is in a loaded state with a pipette tip attached. The pipette tip is omitted in the diagram.

[0022] Figure 8 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the connection relationship between the first drive unit and the first guide mechanism.

[0023] Figure 9 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the connection relationships of the second drive unit, the second guide mechanism, the unloading component, and other structures.

[0024] Figure 10 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the sample analyzer, with the loading component in the state before unloading the pipette tip;

[0025] Figure 11 for Figure 1 The schematic diagram of the sample analyzer shown in the figure shows the loading component and the pipette tip in the state just after separation. The straight arrow in the figure indicates the direction of movement of the loading component during the unloading process.

[0026] Figure 12 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the interaction between the unloading component and the disassembly component during the unloading process.

[0027] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0028] 1000 Sample Analyzer; 100 Dispensing Assembly; 110 Pipette; 10 Loading Assembly; 11 Loading Component; 111 Loading Rod; 112 Loading Head; 12 Separator; 121 Cylinder; 122 Boss; 13 Mounting Base; 14 Limiting Component; 15 Reset Component; 16 Buffer Component; 17 First Position Monitoring Device; 18 Second Position Monitoring Device; 20 Unloading Assembly; 21 Mounting Plate; 22 Unloading Fork; 22a Limiting Groove; 22b Opening; 30 Drive Assembly; 31 First Drive 311. Drive unit; 312. First drive component; 3121. First pulley; 3122. First transmission belt; 32. Second drive unit; 321. Second drive component; 322. Second transmission component; 3221. Third pulley; 3222. Third transmission belt; 33. First guide mechanism; 331. First lead screw; 332. First slider; 333. First guide rail; 34. Second guide mechanism; 35. Second encoder; 120. Moving component; 200. Tip holder; 2000. Pipette tip. Detailed Implementation

[0029] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the terms "first direction," "second direction," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the appendix. Figure 10 The orientations or positional relationships shown are for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to 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 embodiments of this application.

[0030] One embodiment of this application provides a pipette 110; please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 1 to 12 The pipette 110 includes a loading assembly 10, an unloading assembly 20, and a driving assembly 30.

[0031] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 11 The loading assembly 10 includes a movable loading component 11 and a detachment component 12. (See [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2 The loading component 11 is loaded to connect with the pipette tip 2000 through movement. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 11 The loading component 11 and the separating component 12 move relative to each other to achieve the unloading of the pipette tip 2000 from the loading component 11 by the separating component 12.

[0032] Specifically, the loading member 11 and the separating member 12 can both move independently. The loading member 11 is used to load the pipette tip 2000, while the separating member 12 is used to remove the pipette tip 2000 loaded on the loading member 11 from the loading member 11.

[0033] The structure of the loading component 11 is not limited, as long as it can be connected to the pipette tip 2000. For example, please refer to [link to example]. Figure 2 and Figure 7 The loading component 11 may be provided with a loading rod 111 and a loading head 112. The loading head 112 is located at one end of the loading rod 111 along the axial direction. The loading head 112 is connected to the pipette tip 2000 so that the pipette tip 2000 is loaded on the loading component 11.

[0034] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The loading component 11, through movement, can be inserted into the pipette tip 2000, thereby allowing the pipette tip 2000 to be mounted on the loading component 11. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 11 The relative movement between the loading member 11 and the separating member 12 allows the separating member 12 to apply a force to the pipette tip 2000 mounted on the loading member 11, thereby enabling the pipette tip 2000 to separate from the loading member 11.

[0035] During the unloading process, the relative movement between the loading component 11 and the separating component 12 can be that the separating component 12 remains stationary while the loading component 11 moves relative to the separating component 12, or the loading component 11 remains stationary while the separating component 12 moves relative to the loading component 11, or the loading component 11 and the separating component 12 move in opposite directions respectively.

[0036] Please continue reading. Figure 10 and Figure 11The unloading component 20 moves to apply a force to the separator 12 during the unloading process, causing relative movement between the loading component 11 and the separator 12. In other words, during the unloading process, the unloading component 20 applies a force to the separator 12, enabling relative movement between the loading component 11 and the separator 12, thereby allowing the separator 12 to remove the pipette tip 2000 mounted on the loading component 11 from the loading component 11.

[0037] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 To facilitate the handling of pipette tips 2000, the sample analyzer 1000 may be equipped with a pipette tip holder 200 for placing pipette tips 2000. The loading component 11 is loaded by moving toward the pipette tip holder 200. The unloaded pipette tips 2000 may also be placed in the pipette tip holder 200.

[0038] For example, the pipette tip holder 200 may be provided with one or more placement holes in which the pipette tips 2000 are placed.

[0039] In some other embodiments, the sample analyzer 1000 may not be equipped with a pipette tip holder 200. For example, the operator may prepare a holder for the pipette tips 2000. During the use of the sample analyzer 1000, the operator places the holder at a position corresponding to the direction of movement of the loading component 11.

[0040] Please continue reading. Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 The drive assembly 30 provides driving force for the movement of the loading component 11 and the unloading component 20, respectively. In other words, during the loading and unloading process of the pipette tip 2000, the movement of the loading component 11 and the unloading component 20 are both achieved by the drive assembly 30, thereby enabling automatic loading and unloading of the pipette tip 2000.

[0041] Figure 6 The loading assembly 10 shown is provided with a mounting base 13, and the loading element 11 is disposed on the mounting base 13. The drive assembly 30 applies a driving force to the mounting base 13, so that the loading element 11 can move together with the mounting base 13. In some other embodiments, the loading assembly 10 may not be provided with a mounting base 13. For example, the loading element 11 may be directly disposed on the drive assembly 30.

[0042] Another embodiment of this application provides a sample analyzer 1000, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1The sample analyzer 1000 includes a dispensing component 100, a nucleic acid extraction component (not shown), an amplification component (not shown), and a detection component (not shown). The dispensing component 100 includes at least one pipette 110 provided in any embodiment of this application. That is, the number of pipettes 110 can be one or more.

[0043] The pipette 110 is used at least to dispense nucleic acid extraction reagents into the nucleic acid extraction container. The nucleic acid extraction assembly is used to extract nucleic acids from the mixture containing at least the sample and nucleic acid extraction reagents in the nucleic acid extraction container to obtain a nucleic acid extract. The amplification assembly is used to amplify the nucleic acid extract to obtain a test solution. The detection device is used to detect the test solution.

[0044] Specifically, after the pipette tip 2000 is loaded onto the loading part 11 of the pipette 110, the nucleic acid extraction reagent is drawn up by the pipette tip 2000 and then discharged into the nucleic acid extraction container.

[0045] In other embodiments, the pipette 100 can also be used to dispense the nucleic acid extract obtained from nucleic acid extraction into an amplification container, so that the amplification component amplifies the nucleic acid extract loaded in the amplification container.

[0046] In another embodiment, the pipette 100 can also be used to dispense samples into a nucleic acid extraction container to extract samples from the nucleic acid extraction container.

[0047] It should be noted that, depending on the actual dispatch distance, the same pipette 110 can be used to dispense samples, nucleic acid extraction reagents, and nucleic acid extraction solutions; alternatively, different pipettes 110 can be used to dispense samples, nucleic acid extraction reagents, and nucleic acid extraction solutions separately.

[0048] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The dispensing assembly 100 is provided with a moving part 120, which is used to move the loading part 11 so that the loading part 11 can move the pipette tip 2000 to the corresponding position, thereby completing the corresponding liquid aspiration and dispensing actions.

[0049] In addition, the sample analyzer 1000 is also equipped with a liquid aspiration and dissipation power assembly, which realizes the liquid aspiration and dissipation actions of the pipette tip 2000. The liquid aspiration and dissipation assembly can adopt any of the related technologies. Since the structure of the liquid aspiration and dissipation assembly is not within the scope of protection of this application, this application will not describe the structure of the liquid aspiration and dissipation assembly in detail.

[0050] The pipette 110 of this application embodiment mainly achieves the loading and unloading of the pipette tip 2000 through the cooperation of the loading component 10, the unloading component 20 and the driving component 30. The pipette 110 has a relatively simple structure, low cost and is easy to maintain. At the same time, the performance of the pipette 110 is also relatively reliable and can efficiently realize the automated loading and unloading function. Therefore, the pipette 110 of this application embodiment has a high cost performance.

[0051] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 For a loading component 11 having a loading rod 111 and a loading head 112, a separating member 12 can be movably sleeved on the outside of the loading rod 111. The loading component 11 moves along a first direction to achieve loading, and the separating member 12 moves relative to the loading rod 111 along the axial direction to achieve unloading.

[0052] In other words, the separator 12 can be disposed on the loading rod 111, and the separator 12 can move along the axial direction of the loading rod 111. During loading, the separator 12 moves together with the loading rod 111. During unloading, the separator 12 and the loading rod 111 move relative to each other along the axial direction to achieve unloading.

[0053] Specifically, with Figure 1 Taking the pipette 110 shown as an example, the pipette tip 2000 is placed on the tip holder 200. During the loading process, the loading member 11 moves along the first direction, causing the loading head 112 to move toward the pipette tip 2000. After the loading head 112 enters the pipette tip 2000, the loading head 112 and the pipette tip 2000 are inserted and engaged, so that the pipette tip 2000 is loaded on the loading head 112.

[0054] Please see Figure 6 Before loading the pipette tip 2000, the separator 12 is in its initial position, and the separator 12 can be as close as possible to the loading head 112, for example, Figure 6When the separator 12 is in its initial position, the loading head 112 is hidden inside the separator 12. In other embodiments, only a portion of the loading head 112 may be located inside the separator 12. That is, when the separator 12 is in its initial position, at least a portion of the loading head 112 may be located inside the separator 12. During loading, as the loading head 112 gradually enters the pipette tip 2000, the pipette tip 2000 contacts the separator 12 and pushes the separator 12 to move away from the loading head 112 along the axial direction of the loading rod 111. In other words, after the pipette tip 2000 is loaded onto the loading head 112, the separator 12 remains in contact with the pipette tip 2000.

[0055] Please see Figure 6 and Figure 7 For the loading assembly 10 with mounting base 13, the loading assembly 10 may be provided with a limiting member 14, which is disposed on the separating member 12. When the separating member 12 moves axially away from the loading head 112 to its limit position, the limiting member 14 abuts against the mounting base 13. That is, after the loading head 112 gradually enters the pipette tip 2000, the pipette tip 2000 pushes the separating member 12 to move axially away from the loading head 112 along the loading rod 111, and the limiting member 14 moves with the separating member 12. When the limiting member 14 abuts against the mounting base 13, it indicates that the pipette tip 2000 has been loaded into place on the loading head 112.

[0056] After loading is completed, the loading component 11 moves in the opposite direction in the first direction (i.e., moves away from the tip holder 200) to disengage the pipette tip 2000 from the tip holder 200, and then moves to the corresponding position to perform the corresponding aspiration and dissipation operation.

[0057] Please see Figure 10 and Figure 11 After the aspiration and dispensing operation is completed, the loading component 11 can first move to the top of the pipette tip holder 200, and then move in the first direction toward the pipette tip holder 200. After moving to a suitable position, the separating component 12 and the loading rod 111 move relative to each other in the axial direction. The separating component 12 applies a pushing force to the pipette tip 2000, causing the pipette tip 2000 to separate from the loading head 112. After separation, the pipette tip 2000 falls into the pipette tip holder 200, thus completing the unloading.

[0058] For example, please refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 During the unloading process, the unloading component 20 can constrain the separator 12. Under the constraint, the loading rod 111 moves axially relative to the separator 12 to achieve unloading.

[0059] Specifically, during the unloading process, the unloading assembly 20 constrains the separator 12, keeping it stationary axially, while the loading rod 111 moves axially away from the tip holder 200 relative to the separator 12. This causes the pipette tip 2000 to tend to move away from the tip holder 200. Because the separator 12 obstructs the movement of the pipette tip 2000, it applies a thrust to the pipette tip 2000 during this process, allowing the pipette tip 2000 to separate from the loading head 112.

[0060] Please see Figures 10 to 12 The unloading component 20 can move along a second direction intersecting the first direction to approach and constrain the separator 12. The second direction can be perpendicular to the first direction or oblique to the first direction. Moving the unloading component 20 along the second direction facilitates the arrangement of the unloading component 20 and allows it to avoid the loading component 11 during loading, thereby minimizing interference between the unloading component 20 and the loading component 11.

[0061] Please continue reading. Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figures 10 to 12 To facilitate the unloading assembly 20 in constraining the separator 12, the separator 12 may be provided with a cylindrical body 121 sleeved on the loading rod 111 and a boss 122 protruding from the outer wall of the cylindrical body 121. The unloading assembly 20 includes a mounting plate 21 and an unloading fork 22 disposed on the mounting plate 21. The unloading fork 22 is provided with a limiting groove 22a having an opening 22b. The cylindrical body 121 enters the limiting groove 22a through the opening 22b, and the boss 122 abuts against the unloading fork 22 to axially constrain the separator 12.

[0062] In other words, during the unloading process, the unloading component 20 moves in the second direction toward the separation member 12, causing the cylinder 121 to enter the limiting groove 22a from the opening 22b of the limiting groove 22a. The boss 122 abuts against the unloading fork 22 to stop the separation member 12 in the axial direction, thereby preventing the separation member 12 from moving in the axial direction.

[0063] In other embodiments, the unloading component 20 may not have an unloading fork 22 with a limiting groove 22a. For example, the unloading component 20 may have a baffle plate that abuts against the boss 122 during unloading to axially constrain the separator 12.

[0064] In other embodiments, one of the unloading assembly 20 and the separator 12 may be provided with a slot, while the other may be provided with a bump, which, during unloading, axially constrains the separator 12 by inserting into the slot.

[0065] In addition, the unloading component 20 is not limited to moving in the second direction. In other embodiments, the unloading component 20 may also move in the first direction.

[0066] For example, during the unloading process, the unloading assembly 20 can also push the separator 12 to move axially along the loading rod 111, causing the pipette tip 2000 to separate from the loading head 112 under the thrust of the separator 12. It should be noted that, for the unloading method in which the unloading assembly 20 pushes the separator 12 to move axially along the loading rod 111, the loading rod 111 can remain stationary or move in the opposite direction to the movement direction of the separator 12.

[0067] Setting the separator 12 on the loading rod 111 not only facilitates the installation of the separator 12 and reduces the installation space occupied by the separator 12, but also simplifies the structure of the loading assembly 10 and reduces production costs.

[0068] Please continue reading. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The loading assembly 10 may also be provided with a reset member 15 sleeved on the outside of the loading rod 111. The reset member 15 is located on the side of the separator 12 away from the loading head 112 and abuts against the loading rod 111 and the separator 12 respectively.

[0069] The reset element 15 is used to reset the detachable element 12. Figure 6 and Figure 7 For example, see the loading component 10 shown below. Figure 7 After the pipette tip 2000 is mounted on the loading head 112, the reset member 15 undergoes elastic deformation. After the pipette tip 2000 separates from the loading head 112, the separation member 12 moves under the elastic force of the reset member 15. Figure 6 The initial position is shown.

[0070] For the unloading assembly 20, which separates the pipette tip 2000 from the loading head 112 by pushing the separator 12 axially along the loading rod 111, the reset member 15 can undergo elastic deformation during the pushing of the separator 12. When the force applied to the separator 12 by the unloading assembly 20 is removed, the separator 12 resets under the elastic force of the reset member 15. With this unloading method, the pipette tip 2000 mounted on the loading head 112 does not need to contact the separator 12 after unloading.

[0071] Additionally, please see Figure 6 and Figure 7For the loading assembly 10 that unloads by moving the loading rod 111 axially relative to the separating member 12, the loading member 11 may be movably disposed on the mounting base 13. The loading assembly 10 may also be provided with a buffer member 16, which is sleeved on the outside of the loading rod 111 and abuts against the loading rod 111 and the mounting base 13 respectively.

[0072] The buffer 16 provides cushioning during loading. During loading, the buffer 16 undergoes elastic deformation, protecting the pipette tip 2000 and preventing it from affecting the sealing performance of the loaded pipette, thus ensuring the accuracy of subsequent pipetting. The buffer 16 is particularly effective when the same pipette tip 2000 needs to be used multiple times.

[0073] In one embodiment, the buffer 16 provides secondary buffering, resulting in better buffering effect. The secondary deformation can be achieved, for example, by having two helical springs sleeved on the loading member 11, the two helical springs connected in series, and cooperating with the fixing structure on the mounting base 13, so that during loading, the two helical springs are compressed sequentially, thereby obtaining a secondary buffering effect.

[0074] It should be noted that the separating member 12 is not limited to being disposed on the loading rod 111. In some embodiments, the separating member 12 can be disposed independently regardless of the structural form of the loading member 11. For example, the separating member 12 is not disposed on the loading rod 111, but is connected to the limiting member 14. During the loading of the pipette tip 2000, the separating member 12 and the limiting member 14 are moved away from the loading rod 111 to avoid interference with the loading. When it is necessary to unload the pipette tip 2000, the separating member 12 and the limiting member 14 move together to below the pipette tip 2000, and then move upward as a whole, so that the separating member 12 is sleeved on the pipette tip 2000 and the end face of the separating member 12 abuts against the pipette tip 2000. Thus, the unloading is achieved by the axial relative movement of the separating member 12 and the loading rod 111.

[0075] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 The drive assembly 30 may be provided with a first drive unit 31, a second drive unit 32, a first guide mechanism 33 and a second guide mechanism 34. The first guide mechanism 33 uses the driving force provided by the first drive unit 31 to guide the movement of the loading component 11, and the second guide mechanism 34 uses the driving force provided by the second drive unit 32 to guide the movement of the unloading assembly 20.

[0076] Figure 1The first drive unit 31, the second drive unit 32, the first guide mechanism 33, and the second guide mechanism 34 shown are each independently configured. In some other embodiments, for the loading assembly 10 with the mounting base 13, the second drive unit 32 and the second guide mechanism 34 can also be configured on the mounting base 13. That is, the second drive unit 32 and the second guide mechanism 34 can be integrated into the loading assembly 10. During the loading process, the second drive unit 32 and the second guide mechanism 34 move together with the mounting base 13 and the loading component 11.

[0077] The drive component 30 may be equipped with a first step loss monitoring device, which is used to monitor the operation of the first drive unit 31 to determine whether the first drive unit 31 is operating normally.

[0078] The drive component 30 may also be a second step loss monitoring device, which is used to monitor the operation of the second drive unit 32 to determine whether the second drive unit 32 is operating normally.

[0079] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 8 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 The first guiding mechanism 33 may include a first lead screw 331, a first slider 332, and a first guide rail 333. The first slider 332 is connected to the first lead screw 331 and slidably connected to the first guide rail 333. The loading assembly 10 is disposed on the first slider 332. The first driving unit 31 is connected to the first lead screw 331. The first driving unit 31 drives the first lead screw 331 to rotate, causing the first lead screw 331 to drive the first slider 332 to slide along the first guide rail 333.

[0080] For a loading assembly 10 with a mounting base 13, the mounting base 13 can be connected to the first slider 332. For a loading assembly 10 without a mounting base 13, the loading element 11 can be directly set on the first slider 332. Alternatively, the first guide mechanism 33 can also be provided with other connecting structures on the first slider 332, and the loading element 11 can be set on the connecting structure.

[0081] The first slider 332, under the action of the first lead screw 331, slides along the first guide rail 333, which can guide the movement of the loading component 10, thereby enabling the movement of the loading component 11.

[0082] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 8 , Figure 10 and Figure 11The first drive unit 31 may be provided with a first drive component 311 and a first transmission component 312. The first transmission component 312 is connected to the first drive component 311 and the first lead screw 331 respectively, so as to transmit the driving force generated by the first drive component 311 to the first lead screw 331. That is to say, the driving force generated by the first drive component 311 can be transmitted through the first transmission component 312, thereby facilitating the arrangement of the positions of the first drive component 311 and the first lead screw 331.

[0083] The specific structural form of the first transmission component 312 is not limited; for example, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 8 The first transmission component 312 may include two first pulleys 3121 and a first transmission belt 3122 wound around the two first pulleys 3121. One of the two first pulleys 3121 is connected to the first drive component 311, and the other is connected to the first lead screw 331. That is, the first transmission component 312 can be a pulley transmission component. The first drive component 311 drives the first pulley 3121 connected to it to rotate, so that the first transmission belt 3122 drives the first pulley 3121 connected to the first lead screw 331 to rotate, thereby allowing the first lead screw 331 to rotate together with the first pulley 3121 connected to it.

[0084] The drive assembly 30 may be configured to rotate coaxially with one of the two first pulleys 3121 using a first code disk (not shown in the figure, but refer to the figure below). Figure 9 As shown in the second code disk 35, for the drive assembly 30 with a first step loss monitoring device, the first step loss monitoring device can be used to monitor the rotation of the first code disk. For example, the first step loss monitoring device can be an optocoupler capable of emitting optical signals. During the rotation of the first code disk, the first code disk intermittently blocks the optical signal to trigger the first step loss monitoring device, thereby enabling the first step loss monitoring device to determine whether the first drive unit 31 is operating normally by monitoring the rotation of the first code disk. In other embodiments, the first step loss monitoring device can also be other types of monitoring devices.

[0085] In other embodiments, the first transmission component 312 may also be a transmission component formed by the meshing of multiple gears, or the first transmission component 312 may also be a combination of multiple meshing gears and pulley transmission components.

[0086] In some other embodiments, the first drive unit 31 may not have the first transmission component 312. For example, the first drive component 311 may be directly connected to the first lead screw 331.

[0087] In another embodiment, for the loading assembly 10 with the mounting base 13, the first guide mechanism 33 may include a second guide rail slidably connected to the mounting base 13. The first drive unit 31 includes a first drive component 311 and a first transmission component 312. The first transmission component 312 includes two second pulleys and a second transmission belt wound around the two second pulleys. One of the two second pulleys is connected to the first drive component 311, and the second transmission belt is connected to the mounting base 13. That is, the first drive component 311 drives the second pulley connected to it to rotate, thereby causing the second transmission belt to drive the loading assembly 10 to move. At the same time, since the mounting base 13 is slidably connected to the second guide rail, the second guide rail can guide the loading assembly 10 to slide along the second guide rail, thereby guiding the movement of the loading component 11.

[0088] Alternatively, the drive assembly 30 may also be equipped with a first code disk that rotates coaxially with one of the two second pulleys, and the first step loss monitoring device may also be used to monitor the rotation of the first code disk.

[0089] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 9 to 11 The second guide mechanism 34 can be a third guide rail slidably connected to the unloading assembly 20, for example, the mounting plate 21 can be slidably connected to the third guide rail. The second drive unit 32 includes a second drive component 321 and a second transmission component 322. The second transmission component 322 includes two third pulleys 3221 and a third transmission belt 3222 wound around the two third pulleys 3221. One of the two third pulleys 3221 is connected to the second drive component 321, and the third transmission belt 3222 is connected to the unloading assembly 20. That is, the second drive component 321 drives the third pulley 3221 connected to it to rotate, causing the third transmission belt 3222 to drive the unloading assembly 20 to move. At the same time, since the unloading assembly 20 is slidably connected to the third guide rail, the third guide rail can guide the unloading assembly 20 to slide along the third guide rail, thereby guiding the movement of the unloading assembly 20.

[0090] Please see Figure 9 The drive assembly 30 may be equipped with a second code disk 35 that rotates coaxially with one of the two third pulleys 3221. For a drive assembly 30 with a second step loss monitoring device, the second step loss monitoring device can be used to monitor the rotation of the second code disk 35. For example, the second step loss monitoring device may be an optocoupler capable of emitting light signals. During the rotation of the second code disk 35, the second code disk 35 intermittently blocks the light signal to trigger the second step loss monitoring device, thereby enabling the second step loss monitoring device to determine whether the second drive unit 32 is operating normally by monitoring the rotation of the second code disk 35. In other embodiments, the second step loss monitoring device may also be other types of monitoring devices.

[0091] In another embodiment, the second guiding mechanism 34 may also include a second lead screw, a second slider, and a fourth guide rail. The second slider is connected to the second lead screw and slidably connected to the fourth guide rail. The unloading assembly 20 is disposed on the second slider. The second driving unit 32 is connected to the second lead screw. The second driving unit 32 drives the second lead screw to rotate, causing the second lead screw to drive the second slider to slide along the fourth guide rail. That is, the second slider guides the movement of the unloading assembly 20 by sliding along the fourth guide rail under the action of the second lead screw.

[0092] The way the second drive unit 32 is connected to the second lead screw can be the same as or similar to the way the first drive unit 31 is connected to the first lead screw 331, and will not be described in detail here.

[0093] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The pipette 110 may be equipped with a first position monitoring device 17, which is used to monitor the position of the loading component 11 to determine whether the loading component 11 is in a specific position.

[0094] For example, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 Once the loading component 11 has been loaded, it moves to a set position by reversing the movement. The first position monitoring device 17 can be used to monitor the loading component 11 at the set position.

[0095] Specifically, the set position can be used to determine that the loading component 11 has been loaded. For example, when the first position monitoring device 17 determines that the loading component 11 is in the set position, the moving component 120 can be activated to move the loading component 11.

[0096] Figure 4 The first position monitoring device 17 shown is an optical coupler capable of emitting light signals. When the loading component 11 is in the set position, the mounting base 13 blocks the light signal to trigger the first position monitoring device 17, thereby determining that the loading component 11 is in the set position.

[0097] In other embodiments, when the loading member 11 is in a set position, the loading member 11 may also block the optical signal.

[0098] In other embodiments, the first position monitoring device 17 may also be other types of monitoring devices.

[0099] In other embodiments, the first position monitoring device 17 may also monitor the loading component 11 in other positions.

[0100] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 5, Figure 10 and Figure 11 The pipette 110 may also be equipped with a second position monitoring device 18, which is used to monitor the position of the unloading component 20 to determine whether the unloading component 20 is in a specific position.

[0101] For example, please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 The second position monitoring device 18 can be used to monitor the unloading component 20 in its initial position. The initial position of the unloading component 20 refers to the position of the unloading component 20 before unloading.

[0102] Figure 5 The second position monitoring device 18 shown is an optical coupler capable of emitting optical signals. When the unloading component 20 is in the initial position, the mounting plate 21 blocks the optical signal to trigger the second position monitoring device 18, thereby determining that the unloading component 20 is in the initial position.

[0103] In other embodiments, the second position monitoring device 18 may also be other types of monitoring devices.

[0104] In other embodiments, the second position monitoring device 18 may also monitor the unloading component 20 in other positions.

[0105] In the description of this application, the references to terms such as "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," or "exemplary," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of this application. In this application, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Furthermore, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine the different embodiments or examples described in this application, as well as the features of the different embodiments or examples.

[0106] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application are included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A pipette, characterized in that, include: A loading assembly includes a movable loading member and a separating member. The loading member is moved to load the pipette tip into place, and the relative movement between the loading member and the separating member is used to unload the pipette tip from the loading member. An unloading component, which moves to apply a force to the separator during the unloading process, causing relative movement between the loading component and the separator; A drive component, the drive component being used to provide driving force for the movement of the loading component and the movement of the unloading component, respectively.

2. The pipette according to claim 1, characterized in that, The loading component includes a loading rod and a loading head for connection with the pipette tip. The loading head is disposed at one end of the loading rod along the axial direction. The separating component is movably sleeved on the outside of the loading rod. The loading component moves along a first direction to achieve loading, and the separating component and the loading rod move relative to each other along the axial direction to achieve unloading.

3. The pipette according to claim 2, characterized in that, During unloading, the unloading assembly constrains the separator, and under this constraint, the loading rod moves relative to the separator along the axial direction to achieve unloading.

4. The pipette according to claim 3, characterized in that, The unloading component moves toward the separator along a second direction intersecting the first direction and constrains the separator.

5. The pipette according to claim 4, characterized in that, The separating component includes a cylinder sleeved on the loading rod and a boss protruding from the outer wall of the cylinder. The unloading assembly includes a mounting plate and an unloading fork disposed on the mounting plate. The unloading fork is provided with a limiting groove with an opening. The cylinder enters the limiting groove through the opening, and the boss abuts against the unloading fork to axially constrain the separating component.

6. The pipette according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, The loading assembly further includes a mounting base and a limiting member. The loading member is disposed on the mounting base, and the limiting member is disposed on the separating member. When the separating member is in the initial position, at least a portion of the loading head is located within the separating member. When the separating member moves along the axial direction away from the loading head to the limit position, the limiting member abuts against the mounting base.

7. The pipette according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, The loading assembly further includes a reset member sleeved on the outside of the loading rod, the reset member being located on the side of the separating member opposite to the loading head, and abutting against both the loading rod and the separating member; and / or, The loading assembly further includes a mounting base and a buffer. The loading assembly is movably disposed on the mounting base, and the buffer is sleeved on the outside of the loading rod and abuts against the loading rod and the mounting base, respectively.

8. The pipette according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The drive assembly includes a first drive unit, a second drive unit, a first guide mechanism, and a second guide mechanism. The first guide mechanism guides the movement of the loading component using the driving force provided by the first drive unit, and the second guide mechanism guides the movement of the unloading component using the driving force provided by the second drive unit.

9. The pipette according to claim 8, characterized in that, The drive component includes a first step loss monitoring device, which is used to monitor the operation of the first drive unit; and / or, The drive assembly further includes a second step loss monitoring device, which is used to monitor the operation of the second drive unit; and / or, The loading assembly further includes a mounting base, on which the loading element is movably disposed, and on which the second drive unit and the second guide mechanism are disposed.

10. The pipette according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first guiding mechanism includes a first lead screw, a first slider, and a first guide rail; the first slider is connected to the first lead screw and slidably connected to the first guide rail, the loading component is disposed on the first slider, the first driving unit is connected to the first lead screw, and the first driving unit drives the first lead screw to rotate, so that the first lead screw drives the first slider to slide along the first guide rail.

11. The pipette according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first drive unit includes a first drive component and a first transmission component. The first transmission component is connected to the first drive component and the first lead screw respectively to transmit the driving force generated by the first drive component to the first lead screw.

12. The pipette according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first transmission component includes two first pulleys and a first transmission belt wound around the two first pulleys; one of the two first pulleys is connected to the first drive component, and the other is connected to the first lead screw.

13. The pipette according to claim 12, characterized in that, The drive assembly includes a first step loss monitoring device and a first code disk that rotates coaxially with one of the two first pulleys. The first step loss monitoring device is used to monitor the rotation of the first code disk.

14. The pipette according to claim 8, characterized in that, The loading assembly includes a mounting base, the loading element is disposed on the mounting base, the first guiding mechanism is a second guide rail slidably connected to the mounting base, the first driving unit includes a first driving component and a first transmission component, the first transmission component includes two second pulleys and a second transmission belt wound around the two second pulleys, one of the two second pulleys is connected to the first driving component, and the second transmission belt is connected to the mounting base.

15. The pipette according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second guiding mechanism is a third guide rail slidably connected to the unloading assembly. The second driving unit includes a second driving component and a second transmission component. The second transmission component includes two third pulleys and a third transmission belt wound around the two third pulleys. One of the two third pulleys is connected to the second driving component, and the third transmission belt is connected to the unloading assembly; or, The second guiding mechanism includes a second lead screw, a second slider, and a fourth guide rail; the second slider is connected to the second lead screw and slidably connected to the fourth guide rail; the unloading component is disposed on the second slider; the second driving unit is connected to the second lead screw; the second driving unit drives the second lead screw to rotate, causing the second lead screw to drive the second slider to slide along the fourth guide rail.

16. The pipette according to claim 15, characterized in that, The drive assembly includes a second step loss monitoring device and a second code disk that rotates coaxially with one of the two third pulleys. The second step loss monitoring device is used to monitor the rotation of the second code disk.

17. The pipette according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The pipette includes a first position monitoring device for monitoring the position of the loading component; and / or, The pipette includes a second position monitoring device for monitoring the position of the unloading component.

18. The pipette according to claim 17, characterized in that, The loading component, having completed the loading process, moves to a set position via a reverse motion, and the first position monitoring device is used to monitor the loading component at the set position. And / or, The second position monitoring device is used to monitor the unloading component in its initial position.

19. A sample analyzer, characterized in that, It includes a dispensing component, a nucleic acid extraction component, an amplification component, and a detection component, wherein the dispensing component includes at least one pipette as described in any one of claims 1-18; The pipette is used at least to dispense nucleic acid extraction reagents into the nucleic acid extraction container; The nucleic acid extraction component is used to extract nucleic acid from a mixture containing at least the sample and the nucleic acid extraction reagent loaded in the nucleic acid extraction container to obtain a nucleic acid extract. The amplification component is used to amplify the nucleic acid extract to obtain the test solution; The detection component is used to detect the test liquid.

20. The sample analyzer according to claim 19, characterized in that, The sample analyzer is equipped with a suction tip holder, and the loading component is loaded by moving toward the suction tip holder.

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