Container for holding multiple pipette tips

Abstract

The invention relates to a container for holding a plurality of pipette tips, comprising a box having a bottom, a holding device which can be connected to the box and has a plurality of receptacles for holding pipette tips, and a stand which can be connected to the box for tip-proof handling of the box.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a container for holding a plurality of pipette tips, as defined in claim 1.

[0002] Pipette tips of the type in question are designed for coupling with a pipetting device. Such pipetting devices are used for aspirating and dispensing fluid volumes by means of a displacement mechanism, in particular for the repeated dispensing, titration, or pipetting of liquids. The displacement mechanism serves to generate positive or negative pressure for aspirating or ejecting liquids. One or more pipette tips can be airtightly attached to the displacement mechanism. Each pipette tip is typically connected to the displacement mechanism by means of a push-fit connection. For this purpose, the displacement mechanism can have a tubular, cylindrical, or conical end piece onto which the pipette tip is fitted with a corresponding tubular opening. The displacement mechanism and the pipette tip together can form a sealed air space.The pipette tip can be detached or ejected from the displacement device. Pipette tips are typically intended for single use, so after detachment or ejection from the displacement device, they are usually disposed of or collected for disposal.

[0003] Unused pipette tips are often stored, transported, and made available to users in a container with a lid. Such containers are designed to hold multiple pipette tips, allowing the tips to be removed from the container with the lid open or removed, using a pipetting device. This pipetting device, particularly its displacement mechanism, can be inserted into one of the pipette tips. For this purpose, the container has a holding device designed to keep the pipette tips aligned side-by-side in receptacles.

[0004] Such a container is known from document EP 3 774 053 A1. The known container comprises a box with a base and a holding device or support plate that can be connected to the box and has a plurality of receptacles for holding pipette tips in a matrix arrangement. The known container also has a lid that is pivotally attached to the box. When the lid is open, pipette tips can be inserted from above into the receptacles of the holding device, whereby the pipette tips—e.g., due to an upwardly widening diameter or a collar—do not fall through the receptacles but are held in the holding device. One or more pipette tips can be removed from the holding device by means of a pipetting or dispensing device. For this purpose, the dispensing device is inserted into an upper opening of one or more pipette tips via a coupling point or with several coupling points.After use, the pipette tips can be reinserted into receptacles in the holding device – usually by means of an ejector mechanism on the dispensing unit – or placed in another container for disposal. In this context, ensuring stable handling and preventing tipping is particularly important, especially with regard to occupational safety. The known container is designed with support pillars that are an integral part of the box and are not removable. A disadvantage of the known container is that the support pillars only slightly increase the base area of ​​the box, and therefore only marginally improve its stability. Furthermore, the support pillars permanently alter the stackability of the box and its base area.

[0005] Document WO 2017 / 031514A1 also discloses a container for holding multiple pipette tips. This known container has a receiving tray with a base and side walls extending from the base. The side walls define a receiving opening and, together with the base, define a receiving chamber. The container also has a lid that covers the receiving opening of the receiving tray when closed and is removably attached to the receiving tray. The lid is designed as an adapter element for the receiving tray. A positioning device with several positioning elements is provided on the lid. The lid defines a standardized base area on its outer circumference.When the lid is removed from the receiving tray, its base rests against the lid. In this adapter position, the tray is aligned relative to the base defined by the lid using the positioning elements, enabling automated sample processing. The removable lid can be used to further support the receiving tray by placing the lid over the tray's base, thus improving the tray's stability. A disadvantage of using the lid to support the receiving tray in this way is that the container cannot be closed with the lid in the adapter position, leaving the pipette tips exposed to external influences and unprotected from contamination. Furthermore, the shape and size of the lid must be compatible with the shape and size of the receiving tray's base.The base area is only slightly increased here, and the risk of the container tipping over unintentionally is only minimally reduced. Furthermore, in the adapter position, relative movement between the lid and the receiving tray in a vertical direction is possible, meaning it is not blocked. Additionally, achieving a positive and frictional connection between the lid and the receiving tray often requires meticulous work or complex manual intervention, as the components are designed to have very little play.

[0006] DE 10 2011 106 598 A1 discloses a device for dispensing pipette tips, comprising a refill pack and a holder. The refill pack can be inserted into a receptacle in the holder by means of a vertical relative movement. At the end of the vertical relative movement, the refill pack and the holder lock into place by means of outwardly projecting projections in the side walls of the refill pack and spring-loaded locking hooks in the holder that overlap these projections.

[0007] German patent DE 198 52 165 A1 discloses a box for storing several laboratory instruments, such as pipette tips. The box is closable with a lid. A basket designed to hold pipette tips can be inserted into the box. The basket has molded-on spring-loaded tabs on its sides, which, through a vertical relative movement of the basket into the box, engage with a projection on the box, thus detachably connecting the basket to the box.

[0008] The present invention is based on the technical problem of providing a container for holding a plurality of pipette tips, the box of which can be connected to a base not designed as a lid, which improves handling in the state connected to the box, but also the stability against tipping in general and / or avoids or at least substantially reduces the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] The aforementioned problem is solved according to the invention by the fact that the container is designed to hold a plurality of pipette tips. - a box with a bottom, - a holding device that can be connected to the box and has multiple receptacles for holding pipette tips, and - Includes a stand that can be connected to the box to ensure the box is stable and cannot tip over.

[0010] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "base" shall be understood to mean a base or support structure used to carry, stabilize and / or hold an object so that the object stands securely, in particular without tipping, and upright or remains in a certain position. Preferably, the base increases the object's footprint.

[0011] According to the invention, the base can be connected to the box in an initial connection position in which relative movement between the base and the box is blocked in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction. The base can be connected to the box in a final connection position in which relative movement between the base and the box is blocked in both the vertical and horizontal directions. From the initial connection position to the final connection position, the base and the box can be moved relative to each other by means of a rotational movement.

[0012] The advantage of an initial connection position is that by blocking horizontal movement, it ensures that the box can be precisely positioned on the base before being permanently fixed with a twisting motion. This reduces the risk of misalignment and potential damage to the box and the base. Furthermore, the initial connection position prevents the box from slipping or tipping during the connection process, which is particularly helpful if the box is already filled with pipette tips.

[0013] A particular advantage of the rotary motion is that a rotation is required to release the vertically positive connection, thus preventing unintentional loosening. Furthermore, handling is significantly simplified, as the box and stand can be brought into a vertically and horizontally positively connected position with just one hand. It is not necessary to rotate the stand in the opposite direction to the box.

[0014] Preferably, the container has a lid that can be detachably connected to the box. Preferably, the lid is pivotally attached to or mounted on the box to allow the container to be opened and closed, with the pipette tips in the holder becoming accessible when the container is open. Particularly preferably, the lid is transparent to allow the contents of the box to be identified from the outside.

[0015] The base is not designed as a lid for the box. Rather, the base is separate from the lid, the holding device, and the box itself. The base allows the container's footprint to be adjusted to any desired size. The base can be disposed of separately, reused, or purchased new or separately.

[0016] Further advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0017] The stand is therefore securely connected to the box both horizontally and vertically, preventing any relative movement between the stand and the box in either direction. The stand will not detach from the box if it is handled in a way that causes it to tip over. Even when the box is lifted, the stand will remain securely attached.

[0018] The positive locking mechanism, which can be achieved in both vertical and horizontal directions, creates a secure and stable connection between the box and the base. This prevents wobbling or tipping and contributes to the precision required for automated processes. More generally, this positive locking connection also ensures that the contents of the container are stored stably and securely.

[0019] Another advantage of the detachable form-fit connection is that the box can be quickly and easily attached to the stand, significantly simplifying handling. This also improves flexibility in use and storage.

[0020] Preferably, the rotational movement of the box relative to the base from the initial connection position to the final connection position is limited by means of a wall of the base.

[0021] This offers the advantage that the box can be positioned precisely, consistently, and repeatably, as it always stops exactly in the position defined by the wall. Furthermore, this facilitates ease of use, as the wall makes the process intuitive and user-friendly. Because the user knows quickly and reliably when the box is correctly positioned thanks to the wall's limitations, the connection process is significantly simplified and, in particular, accelerated compared to previous technologies. Additionally, the wall prevents the box from being over-rotated, thus preventing damage to the box or its base and ultimately extending the lifespan of the components.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the rotational movement of the box relative to the base from the initial connection position to the final connection position is guided or defined by means of a border around the base.

[0023] One advantage of this border is that the user is already given the rotational movement to perform, thus further increasing user-friendliness and intuitive use.

[0024] In particular, in one embodiment, the base has a marking on its upper side that marks the initial connection position and / or corresponds to an enlargement of the contour of the bottom of the box and is arranged on the upper side of the base in such a way that it is visible when the base is connected to the box in the initial connection position.

[0025] The marking on the top of the stand offers a handling advantage by making it easier for the user to precisely position the box at the initial connection point on the stand. This clear orientation aid prevents the need for repeated adjustments or repositioning, thus reducing damage and wear caused by incorrect operation. Additionally, the marking on the top of the stand also saves time when creating the detachable connection, as the initial connection position is readily visible to the user.

[0026] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that, for a horizontally and vertically positive-locking connection between the box and the base, the bottom of the box has a recess on its underside, preferably substantially cylindrical, and the base has a projection on its upper side, preferably substantially cylindrical. In this preferred embodiment, the recess of the box is designed to be complementary to and to receive the projection of the base. The complementary design of these parts makes it easier to connect and align the box with the base, in addition to marking the initial connection position.

[0027] Particularly preferably, the recess of the box and the projection of the base form a bayonet fitting, especially wherein the bottom of the box has at least one engagement section projecting into the recess and the projection of the base has at least one counter-engagement section projecting outwards. The bayonet fitting offers the advantage that a mechanical connection of the parts can be quickly established and released, thus achieving a complete positive fit in both the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0028] Another advantageous embodiment is characterized in that the holding device has at least one externally visible display element, which is integrally formed on a rim of the holding device. Because the display element is visible from the outside, the lid of the box advantageously does not need to be opened to obtain information from the display element, e.g., about the pipette tips held. In the prior art, the container (e.g., the box) is often labeled with a label that provides information about the pipette tips provided. The preferably integral integration of the display element into the holding device offers the advantage that the detachable holding device can be transferred, for example, from box to box without losing the information about the contents of the holding device or requiring the box to be relabeled.

[0029] Preferably, the display device can be labelled with information for identifying pipette tips held in the holder using a laser process, an embossing process, and / or an inkjet process. Because the labelling can be carried out without introducing any additional material, the holder remains sorted for disposal purposes. The label itself, its handling, and subsequent disposal are thus eliminated by this display device.

[0030] In particular, the container has a lid that can be detachably connected to the box and which has a recess for receiving a portion of the display device. Preferably, the display device is aligned with a front surface of the lid when it is closed.

[0031] Preferably, the base has non-slip features on its underside to prevent slipping. These can include, among other things, rubber feet or pads, felt glides, suction cups, or a special coating to create a non-slip surface.

[0032] Further advantages, features, properties and application possibilities of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing and the drawing itself.

[0033] It shows: Fig. 1 schematically in a perspective exploded view a preferred embodiment of a container according to the invention with a detachably connectable lid, Fig. 2. Schematically, in a bottom view, the box of the container. Fig. 1, Fig. 3. Schematically, in a top view, the base of the container. Fig. 1, Fig. 4. schematically in a perspective view the container made of Fig. 1 in a state where the box and the stand are not connected. Fig. 5. schematically in a perspective view the container made of Fig. 1 in an initial connection position of the box with the stand, Fig. 6. schematically in a perspective view the container made of Fig. 1 in a final connection position of the box with the stand, Fig. 7 schematically depicts the container in a top view Fig. 5 in the initial connection position of the box with the stand, Fig. 8 schematically in a top view the container Fig. 6 in the final connection position of the box with the stand, Fig. 9 schematically shows a section along axis VII-VII of container 1 in a final connection position Fig. 8, Fig. 10 schematically in a front view the container Fig. 9, Fig. 11 schematically in a perspective view the container made of Fig. 6 with the lid open and the pipette tips held in the holder, Fig. 12 schematically in a perspective view the container made of Fig. 11 without the holding device, Fig. 13. Schematically, in a perspective top view, the interior view of the box of the container. Fig. 1 and Fig. 14 schematically in a perspective view the holding device of the container Fig. 1.

[0034] Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows a preferred embodiment of a container 1 according to the invention in a perspective exploded view. The container 1 comprises a box 2, a stand 3 detachably connected to the box 2 for tip-proof handling, a holding device 4 for holding a plurality of pipette tips 5, and a lid 6. The holding device 4 and the lid 6 are each detachably connected to the box 2.

[0035] Box 2 comprises a base 7 and side walls 8-11 extending from the base 7. At the corners, i.e., where two side walls 8-11 meet, stiffeners 12 are preferably provided to increase the stability of box 2. The ends of the side walls 8-11, which are distanced from the base 7, form a circumferential rim 13. The side walls 8-11, together with the base 7, define a receiving space 14.

[0036] In the preferred embodiment shown here, the box 2 widens from the base 7 of the box 2 towards the edge 13. This means that the contour of the edge 13 is larger than the contour of the base 7. The box 2 preferably corresponds to the shape of an inverted truncated pyramid without a base, wherein the top surface corresponds to the base 7 (with an approximately rectangular shape) and all four lateral surfaces are formed by the side walls 8-11.

[0037] Fastening means 15 are provided on the rear side wall 10 to allow the lid 6 to be detachably connected to the box 2 and pivotally mounted. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening means 15 are each designed as a hinge. In other embodiments, however, the fastening of the lid 6 can also be designed as a snap, latch, and / or hook closure.

[0038] A tab 16 is preferably located centrally at the end of the front side wall 8 that is distanced from the ground 7. The lid 6 can be opened and closed or fixed in a closed position by means of the tab 16.

[0039] The box 2 has a recess 25 projecting from the underside of the base 7 into the receiving space 14 of the box 2, which is preferably substantially cylindrical. The recess 25 preferably has at least several stiffeners 36 extending radially from the recess 25, which is particularly cylindrical. These stiffeners 36 are especially preferably arranged diametrically in pairs to improve the stability of the box 2.

[0040] The receiving space 14 of the box 2 is particularly suitable for receiving the holding device 4 and, optionally, pipette tips 5 held therein. The holding device 4 has a plurality of receptacles 17 for holding pipette tips 5. The holding device 4 can be detachably connected to the box 2. In the preferred embodiment shown here, the holding device 4 has hook elements 38 on two opposite sides, wherein the hook elements 38 have outwardly directed (not shown) detents that engage in a form-fitting manner in recesses (not visible in the drawings) on the inside of the front side wall 8 and the rear side wall 10 of the box 2 in a vertical direction. By pressing a respective actuating device 18, the hook elements 38 are elastically bent so that the detents are moved out of the respective recess, thereby releasing the vertical form-fitting and allowing the holding device 4 to be detached from the box 2.The holding device 4 has a rim 21 that borders the receptacles 17 all around. A display device 22 is integrally formed on the rim 21.

[0041] In this embodiment, the lid 6 comprises a lid wall 19 and lid side walls 20 projecting from the lid wall 19 around its circumference. The lid 6 has means on its rear side wall 20 that allow it to pivotally mount on the box 2 or the fastening means 15 of the box 2. A closure 23 is formed on the front side wall 20 of the lid 6. This closure can interact with the tab 16 of the box 2 and secures the lid 6 in its closed position. To release the closure 23 and thus the lid 6, the closure 23 must be pulled over the tab 16.

[0042] Additionally, the cover 6 has a recess 24 on the front side wall 20 of the cover for receiving an area of ​​the display device 22 molded onto the rim 21.

[0043] Preferably, the lid is essentially transparent so that the contents of container 1 are visible.

[0044] In the illustrated and preferred embodiment, the base 3 has a recessed receiving area 27 on its upper surface 26 for receiving the box 2. The recessed receiving area 27 is surrounded by a preferably circumferential, raised rim 28.

[0045] Furthermore, the base 3 has a marking 29 on its upper side, which corresponds to an enlargement of the contour of the bottom of the box 2 and marks an initial connection position between the box 2 and the base 3.

[0046] For the detachable connection of the box 2 with the base 3, the base 3 has a projection 30 on its upper surface 26, which is preferably essentially cylindrical and complementary to the recess 25 of the box 2.

[0047] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic bottom view of box 2. The underside of the base 7 of box 2 and the recess 25 are visible. The base 7 of box 2 has at least one engagement section 31 projecting into the recess 25. In the embodiment shown here, four engagement sections 31 project radially into the recess 25. The engagement sections 31 are preferably rib-like or web-like. As shown in the bottom view from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the engagement sections 31 are distributed around the circumference of the recess 25 and arranged in diametrically opposed pairs. The engagement sections 31 are spaced apart from the bottom of the recess 25 to allow for engagement from behind. In the preferred embodiment, the outer surface of the engagement sections 31 is flush with the underside of the bottom 7.

[0048] In Fig. Figure 3 shows the base 3 with its upper surface 26 in a top view. The projection 30, which is complementary to the recess 25, has at least one counter-engagement section 37, but this counter-engagement section 37 projects radially outwards. In the embodiment shown here, four counter-engagement sections 37 are arranged diametrically in pairs around the circumference or on the contour of the projection 30. The counter-engagement sections 37 are preferably rib-like or web-like. The counter-engagement sections 37 are spaced apart from the upper surface 26 of the base 3 to allow the engagement sections 31 of the base 7 of the box 2 to engage behind them. The upper surface of the counter-engagement sections 37 is preferably aligned with the upper surface of the projection 30. In addition, the base 3 has recesses 35 corresponding to the number of engagement sections 31 of the base 7 of the box 2.

[0049] Fig. Figure 4 shows the box 2 and the base 3 in a perspective view before they are assembled. The box 2 can be positioned along a vertical axis V with the underside of the base 7 by means of a vertical relative movement onto the top surface 26 or into the receiving area 27 of the base 3, which is bordered by the rim 28, in order to connect the base 3 to the box 2 in a form-fitting manner, both horizontally and vertically, and detachably. The marking 29 indicates to an operator how the box 2 should be positioned on the base 3. For the purposes of the present invention, the terms "movement in horizontal or vertical direction" are to be understood as a movement along the horizontal or vertical axis H or V, respectively. In this movement, the projection 30 of the base 3 engages in the complementary recess 25 of the box 2. The mutually present and congruently fitting engagement sections 31 of the base 7 of the box 2 and the projection 30 of the base 3 engage with the corresponding recess 25 of the box 2.The counter-engagement sections 37 of the projection 30 can be moved past each other by the vertical relative movement along the vertical axis V. The position then reached marks the initial connection position.

[0050] In Fig. Figure 5 shows the initial connection position of the container 1 or box 2 according to the invention and the base 3. The initial connection position is defined by the marking 29 on the top surface 26 of the base 3 to facilitate connecting the box 2 to the base 3. In the initial connection position, relative movement between the box 2 and the base 3 is blocked vertically and horizontally by the positive locking mechanism. The marking 29 on the top surface 26 of the initial connection position is still visible even in the initial connection position of the box 2 with the base 3, since the marking 29 corresponds to an enlargement of the contour of the base 7 of the box 2.

[0051] From the initial connection position, the stand 3 can be moved to a final connection position with the box 2. The final connection position is in the Fig. 6, Fig. 8 and Fig. Figure 9 shows the final connection position. The final connection position can be achieved by a rotational movement α of the box 2 relative to the base 3 about the vertical axis V. In the embodiment shown here, the connection principle corresponds to a bayonet fitting. The rotational movement α requires no complex manual intervention and can be performed with only one hand, the rotational movement α being limited by the design of the base 3. The recessed receiving area 27 is surrounded by a raised rim 28. The rim 28 forms a wall 32, preferably perpendicular to the receiving area 27, which acts as a guide and stop for the box 2. The rotational movement α is limited by the wall 32.

[0052] The portion of the side walls 8 and 10 of the box 2 that is in direct contact with the rim 28 of the base 3 in the initial connection position designates an initial stop area 33. This initial stop area 33 limits the rotational movement α required to reach the final connection position to only one possible direction of rotation. The initial stop area 33 is located in the Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 recognizable. Fig. Figure 7 shows a top view of the box 2 with the stand 3 in the initial connection position. Fig. 5 dar.

[0053] The final connection position of box 2 with stand 3 is in Fig. 6 shown. As compared with Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the box is no longer within marking 29, i.e., no longer in the initial connection position. In the final connection position, relative movement between the base 3 and the box 2 in the vertical and horizontal directions is blocked by the congruently formed engagement sections 31 of the base 7 of the box 2 and the counter-engagement sections 37 of the projection 30, which now lie in a vertical plane due to the rotational movement α and form a positive fit. The engagement sections 31 of the base 7 of the box 2 engage behind the counter-engagement sections 37 of the projection 30 and fit into the recesses 35 of the base 3.

[0054] The portion of the side walls 8 and 10 of box 2 that is in direct contact with the rim 28 of the base 3 in the final connection position designates a final stop area 34. This final stop area 34 limits the rotational movement α required to reach the initial connection position to only one possible direction of rotation. The final stop area 34 is located in the Fig. 6 and Fig. 8 recognizable. Fig. Figure 8 shows a top view of box 2 with the stand 3 in the final connection position. Fig. 6 dar.

[0055] In Fig. Figure 8 shows the rotational or locking movement of the box 2 relative to the base 3. The rotational movement α of the box 2 relative to the base 3, from the initial connection position to the final connection position, is defined by the raised rim 28 of the receiving area 27 of the base 3. In this embodiment, the rotational movement α is a maximum of 45 degrees, determined by the number of successive engagement sections 31 and counter-engagement sections 37. The rotational movement α corresponds at most to the quotient of 360 degrees and the number of interlocking engagement sections 31 and counter-engagement sections 37. In other embodiments, the angle of the rotational movement α is preferably 45 to 180 degrees.

[0056] Fig. Figure 9 shows container 1 in the final connection position in section along axis VII-VII. Fig. 8. Here it can be seen that the recess 25 of the box 2 and the projection 30 of the base 3, in combination with the inwardly projecting engagement sections 31 and the outwardly projecting counter-engagement sections 37, form a bayonet fitting and connect the base 3 to the box 2 in the final connection position in a form-fitting manner in the horizontal and vertical direction.

[0057] In Fig. Figure 10 shows a front view of the container 1. The display device 22 is preferably integrally formed on a front face of the rim 21 and is essentially rectangular in shape. In other embodiments, the display device 22 can also be square or trapezoidal. The lid 6 has a recess 24 on its front side wall 20 for receiving a portion of the display device 22. In other embodiments, however, no recess 24 may be provided for the display device 22; in this case, the display device 22 is preferably integrally formed on the rim 21 such that a substantial part of the display device 22 extends towards the bottom 7 of the box 2.

[0058] The display device 22 can be labelled by a laser process, an embossing process, or an inkjet process with information for identifying pipette tips 5 held in the holding device 4. The information or labelling is preferably applied when the holding device 4 is loaded with pipette tips 5. The information refers to the pipette tips 5 stored in this container 1. Pipette tips 5, which are sterile / non-sterile, with or without filters, and of different lengths (absorbable / transferable volume), have individual article numbers and designations. The information therefore preferably includes at least one of the following pieces of information for identifying the stored pipette tips 5: article number, designation, matrix / line / color code, and / or batch number.

[0059] Preferably, the display device 22 is visible from the outside so that the operator can quickly and easily see what is located in the receiving chamber 14 of the box 2. When the lid 6 is closed, the display device 22 is preferably arranged flush with the front side wall 20 of the lid.

[0060] Fig. Figure 11 shows the container 1 according to the invention with its lid 6 open and a holding device 4 inserted into the box 2, which is equipped with a plurality of pipette tips 5, in a perspective view. The box 2 is in its final connection position with the base 3. In this position, the box 2 is positively connected to the base 3 horizontally and vertically and is therefore completely tip-proof. This means that in this state, the lid 6 can be opened and pivoted open with one hand using the closure 23, the holding device 4 can be equipped with pipette tips 5, at least one pipette can be inserted into one of the pipette tips 5, the holding device 4 can be removed from the box 2 by pressing the actuating devices 18 together, and a new holding device 4 equipped with pipette tips 5 can be inserted into the box 2.Box 2, and especially the removal of the pipette tips 5, can be handled securely with the attached stand 3, preventing tipping. Even when pipetting in a safety cabinet behind a glass pane with an unfavorable orientation of the pipette relative to the pipette tips, the stand 3 ensures stability during the insertion process. This is particularly advantageous because, in the illustrated embodiment, the pipette tips 5 are loosely inserted in the receptacles 17 and would fall out if the box 2 were to tip over.

[0061] In Fig. Figure 12 shows container 1 with lid 6 open in the final connection position of box 2 with stand 3. In contrast to Fig. 11 is in Fig. 12. No holding device 4 equipped with pipette tips 5 is connected to the box 2. Replacing the holding device 4 is possible in the Fig. The depicted state 12 is possible without restrictions; the tip-proof handling is in no way affected by the holding device 4. Various holding devices 4 can be detachably connected to the box 2.

[0062] Fig. Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the box 2 without the stand 3, which is positively and detachably connected to the box 2. Furthermore, the detachably connected lid 6 is separated from the fastening means 15 of the box 2. The missing retaining device 4 provides a view of the receiving space 14 of the box 2, specifically of the recess 25 projecting into the receiving space 14 and the paired stiffeners 12 extending diametrically opposite it.

[0063] In Fig.Figure 14 shows the holding device 4 with a plurality of receptacles 17 for holding pipette tips 5 in a perspective view. The display device 22 is integrally formed on the rim 21, preferably on the front side of the holding device 4 when connected to the box. The holding device can be detached from the box 2 by pressing the actuating devices 18.

[0064] Particularly preferably, the box 2, the stand 3, the holding device 4 and / or the lid 6 are made of a thermoplastic material, in particular polypropylene, polyethylene, polybutylene terephthalate, polystyrene and / or biodegradable plastics, using an injection molding process to ensure purity of material.

Claims

[1] Container for holding a plurality of pipette tips (5), comprising - a box (2) having a bottom (7), - a holding device (4) which can be connected to the box (2) and has a plurality of receptacles (17) for holding pipette tips (5), and - a stand (3) that can be connected to the box (2) for tip-proof handling of the box (2), wherein - the base (3) can be connected to the box (2) in an initial connection position in which a relative movement between the base (3) and the box (2) is blocked in the vertical direction towards each other and in the horizontal direction, - the base (3) can be connected to the box (2) in a final connection position in which relative movement between the base (3) and the box (2) is blocked in the vertical and horizontal directions, and - the base (3) and the box (2) can be moved relative to each other from the initial connection position to the final connection position by means of a rotational movement (α). [2] Container according to claim 1, wherein the container (1) has a lid (6) which is detachably connectable to the box (2), preferably wherein the lid (6) is pivotably attached or mounted on the box (2). [3] Container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rotational movement (α) of the box (2) relative to the base (3) from the initial connection position to the final connection position is limited by means of a wall (32) of the base (3). [4] Container according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the rotational movement (α) of the box (2) relative to the base (3) from the initial connection position to the final connection position is guided or predetermined by means of a rim (28) of the base (3). [5] Container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the base (3) has a marking (29) on a top surface (26) which marks the initial connection position and / or corresponds to an enlargement of the contour of the bottom (7) of the box (2) and is arranged on the top surface (26) of the base (3) such that it is visible when the base (3) is connected to the box (2) in the initial connection position. [6] Container according to one of the preceding claims, wherein for horizontal and vertical form-fitting connection between the box (2) and the base (3) - the bottom (7) of the box (2) has a recess (25) on its underside, preferably substantially cylindrical, - the base (3) has a projection (30) on a top surface (26), preferably substantially cylindrical, and - the recess (25) of the box (2) is designed to be complementary to the projection (30) of the base (3) and to accommodate the projection (30) of the base (3). [7] Container according to claim 6, wherein the recess (25) of the box (2) and the projection (30) of the base (3) form a bayonet fitting, in particular wherein the bottom (7) of the box (2) has at least one engagement section (31) projecting into the recess (25) and the projection (30) of the base (3) has at least one outwardly projecting counter-engagement section (37). [8] Container according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding device (4) has at least one externally visible display device (22) which is integrally formed on a rim (21) of the holding device (4). [9] Container according to claim 8, wherein the display device (22) can be labelled or marked by a laser method, an embossing method and / or an ink-jet method with information for identifying pipette tips (5) held in the holding device (4). [10] Container according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the container (1) has a lid (6) detachably connectable to the box (2) which has a recess (24) for receiving an area of ​​the display device (22), and wherein, preferably, the display device (22) is arranged in alignment with a front face of the lid (6) when the lid (6) is closed.

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