Reagent storage assembly, reagent storage device, and pipetting system

Abstract

The application relates to a reagent storage assembly, a reagent storage device and a pipetting system. The reagent storage assembly comprises an adapter and a rotation-stopping piece. The adapter is provided with an adapter hole, which extends from the top surface of the adapter to the bottom of the adapter and is used for inserting a container. The rotation-stopping piece is arranged in the adapter hole and connected with the adapter. The rotation-stopping piece is used for positioning cooperation with the bottom of the container to limit the rotation of the container. In this way, the lid of the container can be directly rotated to open and close, without the need of taking the container out of the adapter and clamping the bottom of the container by using an additional fixing clamp, so that the opening and closing efficiency of the container can be improved. In addition, since the container does not need to be taken out of the adapter, the reagent in the container can be prevented from being affected by light and environmental temperature, the stability of the reagent in the container can be ensured, the opening and closing of the light-sensitive and low-temperature precious reagent can be quickly realized, and the functionality of the reagent storage device is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a reagent preservation component, reagent preservation device and pipetting system. Background Technology

[0002] Reagent preservation devices, as common temperature control accessories for pipetting systems, can maintain and control the temperature of reagents. Taking a metal bath as an example, after opening the container, it is inserted into the adapter of the metal bath. The thermal conductivity of the metal block maintains the reagent temperature, prevents condensation from diluting the reagent, and prevents it from deteriorating due to light exposure. After the dispensing step is completed, the container is removed and the lid is closed.

[0003] Metal baths in related technologies typically include a heat-conducting component (i.e., an adapter), a middle cover, and a top cover. The heat-conducting component is made of metal, with no particular material restrictions; it can be made from commonly available materials used in metal bath manufacturing. The heat-conducting component includes a base and several heat-conducting units fixedly mounted on the base. Each heat-conducting unit has an insertion hole for accommodating the container. The heat-conducting component is often made of aerospace-grade aluminum to achieve good strength and thermal conductivity. The middle and top covers are made of plastic; during use, they enclose the heat-conducting component, preventing heat loss and improving heating speed and heat retention.

[0004] The heat-conducting components in related technologies have the following structural forms:

[0005] In structural form one, multiple protrusions are provided on the bottom inner wall of the insertion hole to secure the container, while claws are provided on the outer wall of the container. When the container is inserted into the insertion hole, the claws abut against the protrusions, preventing the container from rotating within the insertion hole and thus securing it. However, this heat-conducting component cannot accommodate containers of different sizes and shapes.

[0006] In the second structural form, the bottom of the heat-conducting component can be replaced as needed. Specifically, it includes a main body, a base, and a threaded component. The main body has an insertion hole with an opening at the bottom. The base is located below the main body and is positioned correspondingly at the opening. The base has a threaded hole for use with the threaded component. The threaded component is located inside the insertion hole and is connected and fixed to the base. However, it cannot effectively secure containers inserted into the insertion hole.

[0007] The third structural form involves a multi-well plate reagent kit with a heat-conducting component. The kit is detachably mounted on a substrate, containing the biological sample and the necessary purification reagents or samples. This eliminates the need for a separate purification process when installing the kit, facilitating its use with automated biological sample analysis equipment. However, the large number of wells in multi-well plate kits results in a larger overall size and makes it difficult to effectively secure the container. Utility Model Content

[0008] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a reagent preservation component, reagent preservation device, and pipetting system to address at least one of the problems in the prior art.

[0009] In a first aspect, this application provides a reagent preservation component, comprising:

[0010] An adapter, the adapter having an adapter hole extending from the top surface of the adapter toward the bottom surface of the adapter, the adapter hole being used for inserting a container; and

[0011] An anti-rotation component is disposed within the adapter hole and connected to the adapter. The anti-rotation component is used to position and engage with the bottom of the container to restrict the rotation of the container.

[0012] In one embodiment, the bottom wall of the adapter hole is provided with a first positioning part, and the anti-rotation member is provided with a second positioning part, wherein the first positioning part and the second positioning part are mutually positioned and cooperated.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first positioning portion includes a first recess recessed in a direction away from the anti-rotation member, and the second positioning portion includes a first protrusion protruding in a direction away from the first recess, the first protrusion adapting to the first recess and extending into the first recess to restrict the anti-rotation member from rotating relative to the adapter; and / or, the first positioning portion includes a second protrusion protruding in a direction close to the anti-rotation member, and the second positioning portion includes a second recess recessed in a direction away from the first positioning portion, the second protrusion adapting to the second recess and extending into the second recess to restrict the anti-rotation member from rotating relative to the adapter.

[0014] In one embodiment, the anti-rotation element is detachably connected to the adapter.

[0015] In one embodiment, the reagent storage assembly further includes a first fastener, through which the anti-rotation member is fixedly connected to the adapter.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first fastener includes a screw, bolt, pin, rivet, or snap-fit; the anti-rotation member has a first mounting hole, and the bottom wall of the adapter hole has a second mounting hole corresponding to the position of the first mounting hole; the first fastener passes through the first mounting hole and the second mounting hole to fix the anti-rotation member to the adapter.

[0017] In one embodiment, the anti-rotation member is provided with a third positioning part, which is used to position and cooperate with a fourth positioning part at the bottom of the container.

[0018] In one embodiment, the third positioning part includes a positioning groove formed on the top of the anti-rotation member, and the fourth positioning part includes a positioning rib disposed on the bottom outer wall of the container, the positioning rib being adapted to the positioning groove and inserted into the positioning groove to restrict the container from rotating relative to the anti-rotation member.

[0019] In one embodiment, there are multiple positioning slots and multiple positioning ribs, with each positioning rib engaging with each positioning slot.

[0020] In one embodiment, the third positioning part includes a positioning groove formed on the top of the anti-rotation member, and the fourth positioning part includes a protrusion disposed on the bottom outer wall of the container. The cross-sectional profile of the protrusion along the central axis of the container is non-circular. The protrusion is adapted to the positioning groove and is inserted into the positioning groove to restrict the rotation of the container relative to the anti-rotation member.

[0021] In one embodiment, the third positioning part includes a spline shaft disposed on the top of the anti-rotation member, and the fourth positioning part includes a positioning sleeve disposed on the bottom outer wall of the container, the inner wall of the positioning sleeve being provided with a spline groove; the spline shaft is adapted to the spline groove, and the spline shaft is inserted into the spline groove to restrict the container from rotating relative to the anti-rotation member.

[0022] In one embodiment, the reagent storage assembly further includes an insulating sleeve that is fitted over the adapter.

[0023] In one embodiment, the outer wall of the insulation sleeve is provided with an anti-slip portion.

[0024] In one embodiment, the reagent storage assembly further includes a light shield that can be opened and positioned on top of the adapter.

[0025] In one embodiment, the top of the light shield is provided with a grip; the shape of the grip is the same as that of the lid of the container.

[0026] Secondly, this application also provides a reagent preservation device, including the aforementioned reagent preservation component, and further including a metal bath body. The metal bath body is provided with a placement position for placing the adapter. When the adapter is placed in the placement position, the metal bath body can raise or lower the temperature of the adapter.

[0027] In one embodiment, the metal bath body is provided with a heating and cooling mechanism, the placement position is located on the top surface of the metal bath body, the heating and cooling mechanism can raise or lower the temperature of the placement position, the placement position abuts against the adapter, and can raise or lower the temperature of the adapter.

[0028] In one embodiment, the shape and size of the placement position match the shape and size of the bottom wall of the adapter.

[0029] In one embodiment, the placement position is a plane, and the bottom wall of the adapter is a plane.

[0030] Thirdly, this application also provides a pipetting system, including the aforementioned reagent storage device, and further comprising:

[0031] First mobile device;

[0032] A clamping mechanism is used to clamp the lid of the container and can drive the lid to rotate to open and close the lid. The clamping mechanism is connected to the first moving device, and the first moving device can move the clamping mechanism.

[0033] Second mobile device; and

[0034] A pipette, which is connected to a second moving device, the second moving device being used to move the pipette so that the pipette moves into the container to aspirate reagents.

[0035] In one embodiment, the first moving device includes a first moving mechanism, a second moving mechanism, and a third moving mechanism; the first moving mechanism is connected to the second moving mechanism, and the first moving mechanism moves the second moving mechanism along a first direction; the second moving mechanism is connected to the third moving mechanism, and the second moving mechanism moves the third moving mechanism along a second direction; the third moving mechanism is connected to the clamping mechanism, and the third moving mechanism moves the clamping mechanism along a third direction; any two of the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are arranged at an angle.

[0036] In one embodiment, the second moving device includes a fourth moving mechanism, a fifth moving mechanism, and a sixth moving mechanism; the fourth moving mechanism is connected to the fifth moving mechanism, and the fourth moving mechanism moves the fifth moving mechanism along a fourth direction; the fifth moving mechanism is connected to the sixth moving mechanism, and the fifth moving mechanism moves the sixth moving mechanism along a fifth direction; the sixth moving mechanism is connected to the pipette, and the sixth moving mechanism moves the pipette along a sixth direction; any two of the fourth, fifth, and sixth directions are arranged at an angle.

[0037] The aforementioned reagent preservation components, devices, and pipetting systems incorporate an anti-rotation element within the adapter hole. This element engages with the bottom of the container to restrict rotation, allowing for direct rotation to open and close the container's lid without removing it from the adapter and using additional clamps to hold the bottom. This significantly improves the efficiency of opening and closing the lid. Furthermore, since the container does not need to be removed from the adapter, it prevents the reagents from being affected by light and ambient temperature, ensuring the stability of the reagents. This enables rapid opening and closing of light-sensitive and low-temperature precious reagents, enhancing the functionality of the reagent preservation device. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a pipetting system in operation according to an embodiment of this application.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of another working state of a pipetting system according to an embodiment of this application.

[0040] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of a container inserted into the adapter hole of an embodiment of this application.

[0041] Figure 4 for Figure 3 The cross-sectional view of the structure shown.

[0042] Figure 5 for Figure 3 The exploded structure diagram shown.

[0043] Figure 6 for Figure 3 The diagram shows a top view of the structure.

[0044] Figure 7 This is a structural diagram showing the interaction between the bottom of the container and the anti-rotation component according to an embodiment of this application.

[0045] Figure 8 for Figure 7 The exploded view of the container and the anti-rotation component is shown.

[0046] Figure 9 This is a structural diagram showing the bottom of the container and the anti-rotation component cooperating with each other, according to another embodiment of this application.

[0047] Figure 10 for Figure 9 The exploded view of the container and the anti-rotation component is shown.

[0048] Figure 11 This is a structural diagram showing the interaction between the bottom of the container and the anti-rotation component in another embodiment of this application.

[0049] Figure 12for Figure 11 The exploded view of the container and the anti-rotation component is shown.

[0050] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0051] 10. Reagent storage component; 11. Adapter; 111. Adaptor hole; 112. First positioning part; 113. Second mounting hole; 12. Anti-rotation part; 121. Second positioning part; 122. First mounting hole; 123. Third positioning part; 13. Insulation sleeve; 131. Anti-slip part; 14. Light shield; 141. Grip part; 20. Container; 21. Lid; 22. Fourth positioning part; 30. Metal bath body; 40. First moving device; 41. First moving mechanism; 411. First motor; 412. First transmission module; 42. Second... Moving mechanism; 421, Second motor; 422, Second transmission module; 43, Third moving mechanism; 431, Third motor; 432, Third transmission module; 50, Clamping mechanism; 60, Second moving device; 61, Fourth moving mechanism; 611, Fourth motor; 612, Fourth transmission module; 62, Fifth moving mechanism; 621, Fifth motor; 622, Fifth transmission module; 63, Sixth moving mechanism; 631, Sixth motor; 632, Sixth transmission module; 70, Pipette; 80, Workbench; 81, Temporary storage station. Detailed Implementation

[0052] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0053] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram shows two different operating states of the pipetting system in one embodiment of this application.

[0054] Please see Figures 3 to 6 , Figures 3 to 6 The diagram illustrates the relevant structure of the container inserted into the adapter's fitting hole.

[0055] One embodiment of this application provides a reagent storage component 10, including an adapter 11. The adapter 11 has an adapter hole 111 extending from the top surface of the adapter 11 towards its bottom, and the adapter hole 111 is used to insert a container 20. Specifically, the container 20 includes, but is not limited to, reagent tubes, centrifuge tubes, or reaction cups, etc., and can be flexibly adjusted and set according to actual needs. In this embodiment, a reagent tube is used as an example of the container 20, but this is not a limitation.

[0056] For example, the reagent storage assembly 10 also includes an anti-rotation element 12. The anti-rotation element 12 is disposed in the adapter hole 111 and is connected to the adapter 11. The anti-rotation element 12 is used to position and engage with the bottom of the container 20 to limit the rotation of the container 20.

[0057] The reagent storage component 10 described above features an anti-rotation element 12 within the adapter hole 111. This anti-rotation element 12 engages with the bottom of the container 20, restricting its rotation. This allows for direct rotation to open and close the lid 21 of the container 20 without removing it from the adapter 11 and using additional clamps to hold its bottom, thus improving the efficiency of opening and closing the lid. Furthermore, since the container 20 does not need to be removed from the adapter 11, the reagents inside are protected from the effects of light and ambient temperature, ensuring their stability. This enables rapid opening and closing of light-sensitive and low-temperature precious reagents, enhancing the functionality of the reagent storage device.

[0058] It should be noted that the depth, shape, and inner diameter of the adapter hole 111 can be flexibly adjusted and set according to the length, shape, and outer diameter of the container 20. Specifically, when the container 20 is inserted into the adapter hole 111, to improve heat conduction, the shape of the container 20 is adapted to the shape of the adapter hole 111; the ratio of the outer diameter of the container 20 to the inner diameter of the adapter hole 111 is, for example, 0.9 to 1; the lid 21 of the container 20 is located outside the adapter hole 111, while the rest extends into the adapter hole 111. The outer wall of the container 20 fits snugly against the wall of the adapter hole 111, ensuring good heat conduction between the adapter 11 and the container 20. The metal bath body 30 transfers cold or heat to the adapter 11, which in turn transfers cold or heat to the container 20, thereby adjusting and controlling the temperature of the reagent within the container 20, keeping the reagent temperature within a preset range.

[0059] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 6For example, the bottom wall of the adapter hole 111 is provided with a first positioning part 112, and the anti-rotation member 12 is provided with a second positioning part 121. The first positioning part 112 and the second positioning part 121 are mutually positioned and engaged, which can restrict the rotation of the anti-rotation member 12, that is, restrict the degree of freedom of the anti-rotation member 12 in the circumferential direction, so that the anti-rotation member 12 is stably set in the adapter 11. In particular, during the process of inserting and assembling the anti-rotation member 12 into the adapter hole 111, the mutual positioning and engagement of the first positioning part 112 and the second positioning part 121 can also play a role in correcting the position of the anti-rotation member 12, so that the anti-rotation member 12 and the adapter 11 can be quickly positioned and engaged.

[0060] Optionally, the first positioning portion 112 includes a first recess recessed in a direction away from the anti-rotation member 12, and the second positioning portion 121 includes a first protrusion protruding in a direction away from the first recess. The first protrusion is adapted to the first recess and extends into the first recess to restrict the rotation of the anti-rotation member 12 relative to the adapter 11.

[0061] Optionally, the first positioning portion 112 includes a second protrusion that protrudes toward the anti-rotation member 12, and the second positioning portion 121 includes a second recess that is recessed toward the direction away from the first positioning portion 112. The second protrusion is adapted to the second recess and extends into the second recess to restrict the anti-rotation member 12 from rotating relative to the adapter 11.

[0062] Containers 20 typically come in various types, with different bottom structures. To enable adapter 11 to accommodate more different types of containers 20, for example, the anti-rotation member 12 is detachably connected to adapter 11. Thus, the anti-rotation member 12 can be replaced with the appropriate type according to the requirements of the container 20, allowing adapter 11 to be adapted to accommodate more different types of containers 20.

[0063] Based on the aforementioned embodiments, in order to further improve the installation stability of the anti-rotation member 12 in the adapter 11 by restricting its movement along the axial direction of the adapter hole 111, the reagent storage assembly 10, for example, further includes a first fastener. The anti-rotation member 12 is fixedly connected to the adapter 11 by the first fastener. Optionally, the first fastener may include, but is not limited to, screws, bolts, pins, rivets, snap-fit ​​components, etc. The anti-rotation member 12 is provided with a first mounting hole 122, and the bottom wall of the adapter hole 111 is provided with a second mounting hole 113 corresponding to the position of the first mounting hole 122. After the anti-rotation member 12 is inserted into the adapter hole 111, the first fastener passes through the first mounting hole 122 and the second mounting hole 113 to fix the anti-rotation member 12 to the adapter 11, thereby restricting the movement of the anti-rotation member 12 along the axial direction of the adapter hole 111. Taking a screw as an example for the first fastener, but not as a limitation, the first mounting hole 122 is a through hole, and the second mounting hole 113 is a threaded hole adapted to the first fastener.

[0064] For example, the anti-rotation member 12 is provided with a third positioning part 123. The bottom of the container 20 is provided with a fourth positioning part 22. The third positioning part 123 and the fourth positioning part 22 are positioned and engaged. After the container 20 is inserted into the adapter hole 111, the positioning and engagement of the third positioning part 123 and the fourth positioning part 22 can effectively prevent the container 20 from rotating, thereby facilitating the opening and closing of the container 20.

[0065] For different types of containers 20, the structure of the fourth positioning part 22 is different. The third positioning part 123 is adapted and set accordingly based on the structure of the fourth positioning part 22 so that it can be positioned and cooperate with the fourth positioning part 22. The following will be combined with Figures 7 to 12 The three typical different types of containers 20 and anti-rotation members 12 are described in detail, but this is not a limitation. The fourth positioning part 22 can also be configured in various other structural forms.

[0066] Please see Figure 7 and Figure 8 For example, the fourth positioning part 22 includes positioning ribs disposed on the bottom outer wall of the container 20, and the number of positioning ribs may be one or more. Correspondingly, the third positioning part 123 includes a positioning groove formed on the top of the anti-rotation member 12 (i.e., the part of the anti-rotation member 12 facing the container 20), and the positioning groove is adapted to the positioning ribs. The positioning ribs inserted into the positioning grooves can play a positioning role and effectively prevent the container 20 from rotating. The positioning ribs may be integrally formed on the outer wall of the container 20, or they may be fixed to the outer wall of the container 20 by various other methods.

[0067] For example, the number of positioning slots is the same as the number of positioning ribs. Each positioning rib is inserted into and fitted into each positioning slot.

[0068] Please see Figure 9 and Figure 10 For example, the fourth positioning part 22 includes a protrusion on the bottom outer wall of the container 20. The cross-sectional profile of the protrusion along the central axis of the container 20 is non-circular, specifically, it can be polygonal, elliptical, or other irregular shapes, which are not limited here. Correspondingly, the third positioning part 123 includes a positioning groove formed on the top of the anti-rotation member 12 (i.e., the part facing the container 20), and the positioning groove is adapted to the positioning rib. The protrusion inserted into the positioning groove can play a positioning role and effectively prevent the container 20 from rotating. The protrusion can be integrally formed on the outer wall of the container 20, or it can be fixed to the outer wall of the container 20 by various other methods.

[0069] Please see Figure 11 and Figure 12For example, the fourth positioning part 22 includes a positioning sleeve disposed on the bottom outer wall of the container 20, and the inner wall of the positioning sleeve is provided with a spline groove, for example. Correspondingly, the third positioning part 123 includes a spline shaft disposed at the top of the anti-rotation member 12 (that is, the part facing the container 20), and the spline shaft is adapted to the spline groove. The spline shaft is inserted into the positioning sleeve to play a positioning role, which can effectively prevent the container 20 from rotating.

[0070] The adapter 11 is made of metal, which operates at a low temperature and will condense on its surface when exposed to hot air. Therefore, the reagent storage assembly 10 also includes an insulation sleeve 13. The insulation sleeve 13 is fitted over the adapter 11. Thus, the insulation sleeve 13 not only provides insulation but also prevents the adapter 11 from condensing upon contact with air.

[0071] The insulation sleeve 13 is fixedly fitted over the adapter 11. Optionally, the adapter 11 has a third mounting hole on its side, and the insulation sleeve 13 has a fourth mounting hole corresponding to the third mounting hole. The insulation sleeve 13 is fixed to the adapter 11 by a second fastener passing through the fourth and third mounting holes. Optionally, the second fastener may include, but is not limited to, screws, bolts, pins, or rivets. The number of the third and fourth mounting holes and the second fastener may be, but is not limited to, one, two, three, or more.

[0072] To facilitate the transfer of the adapter 11 and insulation sleeve 13 between the refrigerator and the workbench 80 by the robotic arm, the insulation sleeve 13 is designed to be easily gripped by the robotic arm, thus facilitating handling operations. Specifically, the outer wall of the insulation sleeve 13 is provided with an anti-slip part 131. Optionally, the anti-slip part 131 may include, but is not limited to, anti-slip grooves and / or anti-slip protrusions, etc., which can be flexibly adjusted and set according to actual needs, and are not limited here. During the process of handling the adapter 11 and insulation sleeve 13 by the robotic arm or by hand, the anti-slip part 131 plays an anti-slip role, facilitating the transfer of the insulation sleeve 13, the adapter 11, and the container 20 on which they are mounted between the workbench 80 and the refrigerator.

[0073] Please refer to the following: Figure 1 and Figure 2 For example, the reagent storage assembly 10 also includes a light shield 14. The light shield 14 is detachably positioned on top of the adapter 11. See also... Figure 2 When the reagent in container 20 is not needed, a light shield 14 can be placed over the top of adapter 11, with container 20 correspondingly located inside the light shield 14. This protects against light and prevents water vapor in the air from continuously contacting the cooler adapter 11 and container 20, thus preventing condensation from forming on their surfaces. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1When the reagent in container 20 needs to be used, open the light shield 14 and place it on the temporary storage station 81 on the workbench 80, and open the container 20. Then the reagent can be taken out and put in. After taking out and putting in the reagent, close the container 20 and place the light shield 14 of the temporary storage station 81 on top of the adapter 11.

[0074] In order to enable the automatic opening and closing of the light shield 14, the top of the light shield 14 is provided with a gripping part 141. The gripping part 141 can be easily clamped by the clamping mechanism 50. After being clamped by the clamping mechanism 50, the opening and closing of the light shield 14 and its transfer between the top of the adapter 11 and the temporary storage station 81 can be automatically realized.

[0075] For example, the shape of the gripper 141 is the same as the shape of the lid 21 of the container 20. More specifically, the lid 21 is cylindrical, and the gripper 141 is correspondingly cylindrical. The ratio of the outer diameter of the gripper 141 to the outer diameter of the lid 21 is, for example, 0.5 to 2, specifically, 0.5, 0.8, 1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.8, or 2. Thus, the clamping mechanism 50 used to hold the lid 21 of the container 20 can also be used to clamp the gripper 141, thereby clamping the light shield 14 to realize the opening and closing operation and the handling operation of the light shield 14. In this way, various operations such as opening and closing the lid of the container 20 and opening and closing the light shield 14 can be realized using the same clamping mechanism 50, simplifying the structure and reducing costs.

[0076] In another embodiment, this application provides a reagent storage device, which further includes the reagent storage component 10 of any of the above embodiments. The reagent storage component 10 includes an adapter 11. The adapter 11 is used to mount the container 20. The adapter 11 and the container 20 are thermally conductive to each other.

[0077] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 For example, the reagent storage device also includes a metal bath body 30. The metal bath body 30 transfers cold or heat to the adapter 11, which in turn transfers the cold or heat to the container 20, thereby adjusting and controlling the temperature of the reagent in the container 20 so that the temperature of the reagent is controlled within a preset range.

[0078] The metal bath specifically includes the following functions:

[0079] Temperature maintenance: Keep the reagent at a specific temperature (such as 4℃, 37℃, 55℃, etc.) to prevent the reagent from solidifying or reducing enzyme activity at low temperatures, or denaturing at high temperatures.

[0080] Temperature control provides a stable temperature environment for experiments such as enzyme-catalyzed reactions (e.g., reverse transcription, restriction enzyme digestion) and nucleic acid denaturation, ensuring reaction efficiency and specificity.

[0081] Pretreatment aids, such as preheating the lysis buffer before nucleic acid extraction or maintaining the buffer temperature during protein experiments, can help prevent loss of sample activity.

[0082] Optionally, the metal bath body 30 is provided with a placement position for placing the adapter 11. When the adapter 11 is placed in the placement position, the metal bath body 30 can raise or lower the temperature of the adapter 11.

[0083] For example, the metal bath body 30 is provided with a heating and cooling mechanism. The heating and cooling mechanism includes, but is not limited to, a semiconductor cooler. The placement position is located on the top surface of the metal bath body 30. The heating and cooling mechanism can raise or lower the temperature of the placement position. The placement position abuts against the adapter and can transfer heat to the adapter, thereby raising or lowering the temperature of the adapter 11.

[0084] For example, the shape and size of the placement position match the bottom wall shape of the adapter 11. For instance, the shape of the placement position and the bottom wall shape of the adapter 11 are both rectangular. Another example is that the ratio of the size of the placement position to the size of the adapter 11 is, for example, 0.9 to 1.1; specifically, the size of the placement position is the same as the size of the bottom wall of the adapter 11. After the adapter 11 is placed in the placement position, the metal bath body 30 can conduct heat to the adapter 11 through the placement position, enabling precise control and adjustment of the temperature of the adapter 11.

[0085] Optionally, the placement position may be, but is not limited to, a flat surface, a concave surface, or an irregular shape, which can be flexibly adjusted and set according to actual needs. Among them, the placement position is preferably a flat surface, which makes it easier to stack more different types of adapters 11, thereby improving the versatility of the metal bath body 30.

[0086] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 One embodiment of this application provides a pipetting system including the reagent preservation device of any of the above embodiments.

[0087] Please refer to the following: Figure 1 or Figure 2 For example, the pipetting system also includes a first moving device 40, a clamping mechanism 50, a second moving device 60, and a pipette 70.

[0088] In this configuration, the first moving device 40 is connected to the clamping mechanism 50, and the first moving mechanism 41 can move the clamping mechanism 50.

[0089] The first moving device 40 can be a two-dimensional moving mechanism, a three-dimensional moving mechanism, or other types of moving devices, and is not limited thereto. In this embodiment, the first moving device 40 is taken as a three-dimensional moving mechanism, but it is not limited thereto. Specifically, the first moving device 40 includes a first moving mechanism 41, a second moving mechanism 42, and a third moving mechanism 43. The first moving mechanism 41 is connected to the second moving mechanism 42, and the first moving mechanism 41 moves the second moving mechanism 42 along a first direction. The second moving mechanism 42 is connected to the third moving mechanism 43, and the second moving mechanism 42 moves the third moving mechanism 43 along a second direction. The third moving mechanism 43 is connected to the clamping mechanism 50, and the third moving mechanism 43 moves the clamping mechanism 50 along a third direction. Any two of the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are set at an angle. Optionally, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0090] The first moving mechanism 41, the second moving mechanism 42, and the third moving mechanism 43 are each, but are not limited to, linear modules, cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, or cam mechanisms, etc., and are not limited here. Optionally, the first moving mechanism 41 includes a first motor 411 and a first transmission module 412, the first motor 411 being connected to the first transmission module 412. When the first motor 411 is working, the first transmission module 412 can correspondingly drive the second moving mechanism 42 to reciprocate along a first direction. Optionally, the second moving mechanism 42 includes a second motor 421 and a second transmission module 422, the second motor 421 being connected to the second transmission module 422. When the second motor 421 is working, the second transmission module 422 can correspondingly drive the third moving mechanism 43 to reciprocate along a second direction. Optionally, the third moving mechanism 43 includes a third motor 431 and a third transmission module 432, the third motor 431 being connected to the third transmission module 432. When the third motor 431 is working, the third transmission module 432 can drive the clamping mechanism 50 to reciprocate along a third direction.

[0091] For example, the clamping mechanism 50 is used to clamp the lid 21 of the container 20 and can drive the lid 21 to rotate to open and close the lid. Specifically, the clamping mechanism 50 works in cooperation with the first moving device 40 to complete the opening and closing operation of the lid 21 on the top of the container 20.

[0092] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 3 Optionally, the clamping mechanism 50 includes grippers that can open to release the cover 21 or close to clamp the cover 21. The clamping mechanism 50 also includes a rotating mechanism. The rotating mechanism is connected to the grippers and is used to drive the grippers to rotate. When the grippers clamp the cover 21, the rotating mechanism can drive the cover 21 to rotate, thereby realizing the opening and closing operation of the cover 21.

[0093] The second moving device 60 is connected to the pipette 70. The second moving device 60 can drive the pipette 70 to move, and when the pipette 70 is moved into the container 20, the pipette 70 can aspirate the reagent.

[0094] Similar to the first moving device 40, the second moving device 60 includes a fourth moving mechanism 61, a fifth moving mechanism 62, and a sixth moving mechanism 63. The fourth moving mechanism 61 is connected to the fifth moving mechanism 62, and the fourth moving mechanism 61 moves the fifth moving mechanism 62 along a fourth direction. The fifth moving mechanism 62 is connected to the sixth moving mechanism 63, and the fifth moving mechanism 62 moves the sixth moving mechanism 63 along a fifth direction. The sixth moving mechanism 63 is connected to the pipette 70, and the sixth moving mechanism 63 moves the pipette 70 along a sixth direction. Any two of the fourth, fifth, and sixth directions are arranged at an angle. Optionally, the fourth, fifth, and sixth directions are perpendicular to each other. Specifically, the fourth direction is the same as the first direction, the fifth direction is the same as the second direction, and the sixth direction is the same as the third direction.

[0095] Optionally, the fourth moving mechanism 61 includes a fourth motor 611 and a fourth transmission module 612. The fourth motor 611 is connected to the fourth transmission module 612. When the fourth motor 611 is working, the fourth transmission module 612 can drive the fifth moving mechanism 62 to reciprocate along the fourth direction. Optionally, the fifth moving mechanism 62 includes a fifth motor 621 and a fifth transmission module 622. The fifth motor 621 is connected to the fifth transmission module 622. When the fifth motor 621 is working, the fifth transmission module 622 can drive the sixth moving mechanism 63 to reciprocate along the fifth direction. Optionally, the sixth moving mechanism 63 includes a sixth motor 631 and a sixth transmission module 632. The sixth motor 631 is connected to the sixth transmission module 632. When the sixth motor 631 is working, the sixth transmission module 632 can drive the pipette 70 to reciprocate along the sixth direction.

[0096] For example, the pipetting system also includes a worktable 80. The first moving device 40, the second moving device 60, and the metal bath body 30 are all placed on the worktable 80.

[0097] In one specific embodiment, combined with Figure 1 and Figure 2 The specific working methods of a pipetting system include:

[0098] Step S10: When reagents are needed, remove the reagent storage component 10 from the refrigerator and move it to the workbench 80.

[0099] Conversely, when reagents are not needed and need to be frozen, the reagent storage component 10 is placed in the refrigerator, that is, the adapter 11, insulation sleeve 13, light shield 14 and container 20 are placed in the refrigerator together.

[0100] The reagent storage component 10 can be moved back and forth between the workbench 80 and the refrigerator, which can be achieved by the power of the robotic arm.

[0101] Step S20: Open the light shield 14.

[0102] Specifically, the first moving device 40 and the clamping mechanism 50 cooperate with each other, so that the clamping mechanism 50 moves closer to the gripping part 141 and clamps the gripping part 141, and then the first moving device 40 drives the light shield 14 to move to the temporary storage station 81.

[0103] Step S30: Open the lid 21 of container 20.

[0104] Specifically, the first moving device 40 and the clamping mechanism 50 cooperate with each other, so that the clamping mechanism 50 moves closer to the cover 21 and clamps the cover 21. Then the clamping mechanism 50 drives the cover 21 to rotate, and the cover 21 is opened by the movement of the first moving device 40.

[0105] Step S40, pipette 70 pipetting operation.

[0106] Specifically, the second moving device 60 drives the pipette 70 to move. When the pipette 70 is moved into the container 20, the pipette 70 can, for example, draw up the reagent or dispense the reagent, thus realizing the reagent pipetting operation.

[0107] After the pipette 70 finishes its pipetting operation, the second moving device moves the pipette 70 out of the container 20 and to another location, avoiding the reagent storage component 10.

[0108] Step S50: Close the lid 21 of container 20.

[0109] Specifically, the first moving device 40 cooperates with the clamping mechanism 50, so that the clamping mechanism 50 moves closer to the lid 21 and clamps the lid 21, and then the first moving device 40 moves the lid 21 to the top of the container 20, so that the lid 21 closes the top of the container 20.

[0110] Step S60: Cover the light shield 14.

[0111] Specifically, the first moving device 40 and the clamping mechanism 50 cooperate with each other, so that the clamping mechanism 50 moves closer to the light shield 14 of the temporary storage station 81. After the clamping mechanism 50 clamps the gripping part 141, the first moving device 40 drives the light shield 14 to move to the top of the adapter 11.

[0112] Step S70: Wait for the next pipetting operation, or place the reagent storage component 10 in the refrigerator.

[0113] In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" appear, these terms indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and 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 of this application.

[0114] Furthermore, where the terms "first" and "second" appear, these terms are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, where the term "multiple" appears, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0115] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0116] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the use of descriptions such as "above" or "below" the second feature indicates that the first and second features are in direct contact or indirect contact via an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. Similarly, "below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0117] It should be noted that if an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. If an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. If so, the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0118] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0119] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A reagent preservation component, characterized in that, include: An adapter, the adapter having an adapter hole extending from the top surface of the adapter toward the bottom of the adapter, the adapter hole being used for inserting a container; and An anti-rotation component is disposed within the adapter hole and connected to the adapter. The anti-rotation component is used to position and engage with the bottom of the container to restrict the rotation of the container.

2. The reagent preservation component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom wall of the adapter hole is provided with a first positioning part, and the anti-rotation member is provided with a second positioning part. The first positioning part and the second positioning part are mutually positioned and cooperated.

3. The reagent preservation component according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first positioning portion includes a first recess recessed in a direction away from the anti-rotation member, and the second positioning portion includes a first protrusion protruding in a direction away from the first recess, the first protrusion adapting to the first recess and extending into the first recess to restrict the anti-rotation member from rotating relative to the adapter; and / or, the first positioning portion includes a second protrusion protruding in a direction close to the anti-rotation member, and the second positioning portion includes a second recess recessed in a direction away from the first positioning portion, the second protrusion adapting to the second recess and extending into the second recess to restrict the anti-rotation member from rotating relative to the adapter.

4. The reagent preservation component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The anti-rotation component is detachably connected to the adapter.

5. The reagent preservation component according to claim 4, characterized in that, The reagent storage assembly further includes a first fastener, and the anti-rotation component is fixedly connected to the adapter via the first fastener.

6. The reagent preservation component according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first fastener includes screws, bolts, pins, rivets, or snap fasteners; the anti-rotation member has a first mounting hole, and the bottom wall of the adapter hole has a second mounting hole corresponding to the position of the first mounting hole; the first fastener passes through the first mounting hole and the second mounting hole to fix the anti-rotation member to the adapter.

7. The reagent preservation component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The anti-rotation component is provided with a third positioning part, which is used to position and cooperate with the fourth positioning part at the bottom of the container.

8. The reagent preservation component according to claim 7, characterized in that, The third positioning part includes a positioning groove formed on the top of the anti-rotation member, and the fourth positioning part includes a positioning rib disposed on the bottom outer wall of the container. The positioning rib is adapted to the positioning groove and is inserted into the positioning groove to restrict the container from rotating relative to the anti-rotation member.

9. The reagent preservation component according to claim 8, characterized in that, There are multiple positioning slots and multiple positioning ribs, and each positioning rib is inserted into and cooperates with each positioning slot.

10. The reagent preservation component according to claim 7, characterized in that, The third positioning part includes a positioning groove formed on the top of the anti-rotation member. The fourth positioning part includes a protrusion disposed on the bottom outer wall of the container. The cross-sectional profile of the protrusion along the central axis of the container is non-circular. The protrusion is adapted to the positioning groove and is inserted into the positioning groove to restrict the rotation of the container relative to the anti-rotation member.

11. The reagent preservation component according to claim 7, characterized in that, The third positioning part includes a spline shaft, which is located on the top of the anti-rotation member. The fourth positioning part includes a positioning sleeve located on the bottom outer wall of the container, and the inner wall of the positioning sleeve is provided with a spline groove. The spline shaft is adapted to the spline groove and is inserted into the spline groove to restrict the container from rotating relative to the anti-rotation member.

12. The reagent preservation component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reagent storage component also includes an insulation sleeve, which is fitted over the adapter.

13. The reagent preservation component according to claim 12, characterized in that, The outer wall of the insulation sleeve is provided with an anti-slip part.

14. The reagent preservation component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reagent storage assembly also includes a light shield that can be opened and is located on top of the adapter.

15. The reagent preservation component according to claim 14, characterized in that, The top of the light shield is provided with a gripping part; the shape of the gripping part is the same as the shape of the lid of the container.

16. A reagent preservation device, characterized in that, The reagent preservation assembly includes the reagent preservation assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 15, and further includes a metal bath body, the metal bath body having a placement position for placing the adapter, and the metal bath body being able to raise or lower the temperature of the adapter when the adapter is placed in the placement position.

17. The reagent preservation device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The metal bath body is equipped with a heating and cooling mechanism. The placement position is located on the top surface of the metal bath body. The heating and cooling mechanism can raise or lower the temperature of the placement position. The placement position abuts against the adapter and can raise or lower the temperature of the adapter.

18. The reagent preservation device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The shape and size of the placement position match the shape and size of the bottom wall of the adapter.

19. The reagent preservation device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The placement area is a plane, and the bottom wall of the adapter is a plane.

20. A pipetting system, characterized in that, The reagent preservation device, as described in any one of claims 16 to 19, further includes: First mobile device; A clamping mechanism is used to clamp the lid of the container and can drive the lid to rotate to open and close the lid. The clamping mechanism is connected to the first moving device, and the first moving device can move the clamping mechanism. Second mobile device; and A pipette, which is connected to a second moving device, the second moving device being used to move the pipette so that the pipette moves into the container to aspirate reagents.

21. The pipetting system according to claim 20, characterized in that, The first moving device includes a first moving mechanism, a second moving mechanism, and a third moving mechanism; the first moving mechanism is connected to the second moving mechanism, and the first moving mechanism moves the second moving mechanism along a first direction; the second moving mechanism is connected to the third moving mechanism, and the second moving mechanism moves the third moving mechanism along a second direction; the third moving mechanism is connected to the clamping mechanism, and the third moving mechanism moves the clamping mechanism along a third direction; any two of the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are arranged at an angle.

22. The pipetting system according to claim 20, characterized in that, The second moving device includes a fourth moving mechanism, a fifth moving mechanism, and a sixth moving mechanism; the fourth moving mechanism is connected to the fifth moving mechanism, and the fourth moving mechanism moves the fifth moving mechanism along a fourth direction; the fifth moving mechanism is connected to the sixth moving mechanism, and the fifth moving mechanism moves the sixth moving mechanism along a fifth direction; the sixth moving mechanism is connected to the pipette, and the sixth moving mechanism moves the pipette along a sixth direction; any two of the fourth, fifth, and sixth directions are arranged at an angle.

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