Removable partition device for holding tubes in sample racks

Abstract

Sample racks and removable partitions removably coupled to the body of the sample rack are provided to stably support sample containers received for sample analysis while maintaining proper alignment of each sample container. A partition can comprise at least two stackable segments, each having gripping flexures disposed to hold a sample container in the desired orientation during use. The sample rack can further include a retaining cap disposed over the partitions to hold them in place during use.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] REMOVABLE PARTITION DEVICE FOR HOLDING TUBES IN SAMPLE RACKS

[0003] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0004] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 514,940, filed July 21, 2023, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, including all figures, tables, and drawings.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Laboratory analyzers for the automated analysis of a multitude of biological specimens include several coordinated liquid transfer systems and one or more movable sample racks. The sample racks hold the sample containers in position and transport them to each of various positions in the analyzer where different robotic mechanisms are used for liquid addition and withdrawal in the performance of the different functional operations of the analysis.

[0007] The optimal sample rack is one that holds the sample containers such as test tubes in a stable manner, properly aligning the sample containers in the analyzer and preventing the sample containers from becoming dislodged or their orientation from being changed as the sample rack is moved within the analyzer.

[0008] Generally, the sample rack is a molded structure that includes a plurality of chambers for containing the sample containers, each chamber open at the top and closed at the bottom with a tapering conical-shaped floor that has an aperture at its center.

[0009] BRIEF SUMMARY

[0010] In view of the above, it is desirable for the sample rack to accommodate sample containers of different sizes while maintaining proper alignment of each sample container regardless of its size. Embodiments of the subject invention provide novel and advantageous sample racks and removable partitions removably coupled to the body of the sample rack to stably support sample containers received for sample analysis while maintaining proper alignment of each sample container.

[0011] In an embodiment, a removable partition for securely supporting a sample container received in a sample rack can comprise: a first stackable partition segment; and a second stackable partition segment on which the first stackable partition segment is stacked. The first stackable partition segment can comprise: a first end portion; a second end portion opposite from the first end portion; a first wall portion disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion; a first gripping flexure protruding inwardly and downwardly from the first end portion; and a second gripping flexure protruding inwardly and downwardly from the second end portion. The second stackable partition segment can comprise: a third end portion; a fourth end portion opposite from the third end portion; a second wall portion disposed between the third end portion and the fourth end portion; a third gripping flexure protruding inwardly and downwardly from the third end portion; and a fourth gripping flexure protruding inwardly and downwardly from the fourth end portion. The first gripping flexure, the second gripping flexure, the third gripping flexure, and / or the fourth gripping flexure can comprise a resilient material having elasticity (e.g., a polymer, such as polypropylene (PP) or PP copolymer. The first gripping flexure can protrude downwardly at a first angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees (e.g., 45 degrees or about 45 degrees) with respect to the first wall portion; the first gripping flexure can protrude inwardly at a second angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees e.g., 45 degrees or about 45 degrees) with respect to an outer surface of the first end portion; the second gripping flexure can protrude downwardly at a third angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees e.g., 45 degrees or about 45 degrees) with respect to the first wall portion; the second gripping flexure can protrude inwardly at a fourth angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees e.g., 45 degrees or about 45 degrees) with respect to an outer surface of the second end portion; the third gripping flexure can protrude downwardly at a fifth angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees e.g., 45 degrees or about 45 degrees) with respect to the second wall portion; the third gripping flexure can protrude inwardly at a sixth angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees e.g., 45 degrees or about 45 degrees) with respect to an outer surface of the third end portion; the fourth gripping flexure can protrude downwardly at a seventh angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees e.g., 45 degrees or about 45 degrees) with respect to the second wall portion; and / or the fourth gripping flexure can protrude inwardly at an eighth angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees e.g., 45 degrees or about 45 degrees) with respect to an outer surface of the fourth end portion. The first stackable partition segment can further: comprises a first boss protruding from a top surface of the first end portion; and / or a notch recessed inwardly from the second end portion. The first stackable partition segment can further comprises a fifth gripping flexure and a sixth gripping flexure protruding from an opposite side of the first stackable partition segment from which the first gripping flexure and the second gripping flexure protrude (i.e., the gripping flexures can be symmetrically disposed with respect to a plane going through and parallel to the first wall portion). The second stackable partition segment can further comprise a seventh gripping flexure and an eighth gripping flexure protruding from an opposite side of the second stackable partition segment from which the third gripping flexure and the fourth gripping flexure protrude (i.e., the gripping flexures can be symmetrically disposed with respect to a plane going through and parallel to the second wall portion). A height of the first stackable partition segment can be equal to (or about equal to) a height of the second stackable partition segment. A thickness of the first end portion and a thickness of the second end portion can both be greater than a thickness of the first wall portion (i.e., the first wall portion can be recessed inwardly from the first end portion and the second end portion. A thickness of the third end portion and a thickness of the fourth end portion can both be greater than a thickness of the second wall portion (i.e., the second wall portion can be recessed inwardly from the third end portion and the fourth end portion).

[0012] In another embodiment, a sample rack can comprise: a body; a plurality of removable partitions disposed in the body, wherein each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions is the removable partition is as described herein (e.g., having any or all features discussed in the previous paragraph); a plurality of compartments formed between adjacent removable partitions of the plurality of removable partitions, each compartment of the plurality of compartments configured to hold a sample container of the at least one sample container; and a retaining cap disposed over an upper surface of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions. The retaining cap can hold (or can be configured to hold) the plurality of removable partitions in place in the body during use. The sample rack can further comprise at least one fastener securing the retaining cap to the body of the sample rack (e.g., two fasteners, such as screws) located on opposite sides of the retaining cap). The retaining cap can comprise a plurality of first boss-receiving holes configured to respectively receive the first boss of the first stackable partition segment of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions. The body can comprise a plurality of second bosses protruding from an upper surface thereof. The retaining cap can comprise a plurality of second boss-receiving holes configured to respectively receive the plurality of second bosses of the body. The notch of the first stackable partition segment of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions can be disposed around a second boss of the plurality of second bosses of the body. The first gripping flexure of the first stackable partition segment of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions can be oriented at an angle of about 45 degrees with respect to a first outside surface of the body; the second gripping flexure of the first stackable partition segment of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions can be oriented at an angle of about 45 degrees with respect to a second outside surface of the body opposite from the first outside surface of the body; the third gripping flexure of the second stackable partition segment of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions can be oriented at an angle of about 45 degrees with respect to the first outside surface of the body; and / or the fourth gripping flexure of the second stackable partition segment of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions can be oriented at an angle of about 45 degrees with respect to the second outside surface of the body. The retaining cap can comprise a rigid material (e.g., a hard plastic or a metal, such as aluminum).

[0013] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a sample rack comprising removable partitions and a retaining cap, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0015] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a removable partition, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0016] Figure 3 is a top view of a portion of a sample rack, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0017] Figure 4A is a top view of a partition of a sample rack with a retaining cap in place, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0018] Figure 4B is a top view of a sample rack, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0019] Figure 5 is an image of a sample rack, according to an embodiment of the subject invention. Figure 6 is a schematic representation of a sample rack containing a plurality of removable partitions and a plurality of sample containers, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0020] Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view of the sample rack, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0021] Figure 7B is an isometric view of the handle section of the sample rack, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0022] Figure 7C is a cross-sectional view of the handle section of the sample rack, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0023] Figure 8A is a schematic representation of the removable partition, according to an embodiment of the subject invention. Figure 8B is a top-view schematic representation of the removable partitions inserted into the sample rack between adjacent sample containers, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0024] Figure 8C is a side-view schematic representation of the removable partitions inserted into the sample rack between adjacent sample containers, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0025] Figure 9A is a top- view schematic representation of the removable partition having elastic restraining elements, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0026] Figure 9B is a schematic representation of the removable partitions having the elastic restraining elements viewing from one side, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0027] Figure 9C is a schematic representation of the removable partitions having the elastic restraining elements viewing from another side, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0028] Figure 10A is an image of a prototype sample rack with a prototype removable partition inserted between adjacent cores of the sample rack, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0029] Figure 10B is an image of the prototype sample rack with the prototype removable partition inserted between adjacent cores of Figure 5 A viewing from the top, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0030] Figure 11A shows the displacement analysis performed on the lock portion of the removable partition, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0031] Figure 11B shows the stress analysis performed on the lock portion of the removable partition, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0032] Figure 12A shows the displacement analysis performed when the largest diameter tube is installed in the restraining elements of the removable partition, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0033] Figure 12B shows results of the stress analysis performed when the largest diameter tube is installed in the restraining elements of the removable partition, according to an embodiment of the subject invention.

[0034] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Embodiments of the subject invention provide novel and advantageous sample racks and removable partitions removably coupled to the body of the sample rack to stably support sample containers received for sample analysis while maintaining proper alignment of each sample container.

[0036] A “sample container” can be a sample collection device, such as a test tube or a vial, which can be used to receive a sample such as a blood sample from a patient and to transport the sample contained therein to an analytical laboratory for diagnostics purposes. The sample container is typically made of glass or plastics, may have different sizes, and can have a closed end and an open end closed by a closure, which may be of different materials or different shapes.

[0037] The sample containers may be loaded in the sample rack with or without closure. The sample analysis instrument may, for example, comprise a decapping device to remove closures from the sample container or it may aspirate samples from the sample container through the closures.

[0038] “Samples” are typically liquid biological samples, in which one or more analytes of diagnostic interest can be potentially found, such as body fluids like blood, serum, plasma, urine, milk, saliva, cerebrospinal fluid.

[0039] The removable partition according to the embodiments of the subject invention enables the sample rack to hold sample tubes in place while allowing replacement of the removable partition if desired (e.g., if it loses its retentive abilities). In some embodiments, the partition can be removed from the sample rack by removing a retaining cap or by utilizing a specific tool and may not removable by barehand to inhibit accidental removal.

[0040] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a sample rack comprising removable partitions and a retaining cap, according to an embodiment of the subject invention, and Figure 5 shows an image of the sample rack. Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a removable partition used with the sample rack of Figures 1 and 5. Figures 3 and 4A are top views of a portion of the sample rack from Figures 1 and 5 with the retaining cap absent and present, respectively. Referring to Figures 1-4A and 5, a sample rack 10 can include a body 11 and can be divided into multiple slots or compartments 60, each holding or configured to hold an individual sample container 300, such as a test tube or a vial. The number and size of the slots or compartments 60 may vary depending on the specific requirements of the bioanalysis workflow and the analysis instrument for which the sample rack 10 is intended. The sample rack 10 can include a plurality of removable partitions 40. The sample rack can further include a retaining cap 50, which can also be referred to as a top plate, disposed over removable partitions 40 to keep the removable partitions 40 in place during use. The retaining cap 50 can be made of a rigid material, such as hard plastic or a metal (e.g., aluminum). The sample rack 10 can further include a handle 12. The sample rack 10 can include a label, such as a rack serial number, a rack part number, a material type, or a barcode for identification purposes. The sample rack 10 can be made of any suitable material (e.g., plastic and / or metal) and can be adapted for receiving, holding, and transporting one or more sample containers 300. The sample rack 10 may have an asymmetric geometry (e.g., with a handle 12 only on one end) allowing the sample rack 10 to be loaded and / or transported only in one orientation.

[0041] Each partition 40 can include at least one stackable partition segment, such as a first stackable partition segment 20 and a second stackable partition segment 30. The first stackable partition segment 20 can be stacked on the second stackable partition segment 30, as seen in Figure 2.

[0042] The first stackable partition segment 20 can include a wall portion 21, a first gripping flexure 22 configured to hold a sample container 300 in place during use, and a second gripping flexure 23 configured to hold the sample container 300 in place during use. The first stackable partition segment 20 can further include a first end portion 26 and a second end portion 27 opposite the first end portion 26, and the first 26 and second 27 end portions can be thicker than the wall portion 21, such that the wall portion 21 is recessed inward from the first 26 and second 27 end portions. The first 22 and second 23 gripping flexures can protrude from the first 26 and second 27 end portions, respectively. The first 22 and second 23 gripping flexures can have a downward slant such that they each protrude downwardly at an angle (e.g., in a range of from 10 degrees to 60 degrees, such as from 15 degrees to 50 degrees, 45 degrees, or about 45 degrees) with respect to the wall portion 21. The first 22 and second 23 gripping flexures can also each have an inward slant such that they protrude inwardly at an angle (e.g., in a range of from 10 degrees to 60 degrees, such as from 15 degrees to 50 degrees, 45 degrees, or about 45 degrees) with respect to an outer surface of the first 26 end portion and an outer surface of the second 27 end portion, respectively. The first stackable partition segment 20 can include a first boss 24 protruding from a top surface thereof (e.g., a top surface of an end portion 26,27) and / or a notch 25 recessed inwardly from an end portion 26,27 (e.g., an end portion opposite that from which the first boss 24 protrudes). The first boss 24 and the notch 25 can be used to help guide the partitions 40 into the sample rack 10 and to guide the retaining cap 50 when it is being put in place during use. That is, the first boss 24 of each first stackable partition segment 20 can go through respective first boss-receiving holes 54 in the retaining cap 50, and the notch 25 of each first stackable partition segment 20 can line up with a second boss 13 of the sample rack 10 (see also Figures 3 and 4A). The retaining cap 50 can include second boss-receiving holes 53 to receive the second bosses 13. The first stackable partition segment 20 can be symmetrical, such that the other side also has first 22 and second 23 gripping flexures with any or all of the features discussed herein.

[0043] The second stackable partition segment 30 can include a wall portion 31, a first gripping flexure 32 configured to hold a sample container 300 in place during use, and a second gripping flexure 33 configured to hold the sample container 300 in place during use. The second stackable partition segment 30 can further include a first end portion 36 and a second end portion 37 opposite the first end portion 36, and the first 36 and second 37 end portions can be thicker than the wall portion 31, such that the wall portion 31 is recessed inward from the first 36 and second 37 end portions. The first 32 and second 33 gripping flexures can protrude from the first 36 and second 37 end portions, respectively. The first 32 and second 33 gripping flexures can have a downward slant such that they each protrude downwardly at an angle (e.g., in a range of from 10 degrees to 60 degrees, such as from 15 degrees to 50 degrees, 45 degrees, or about 45 degrees) with respect to the wall portion 31. The first 32 and second 33 gripping flexures can also each have an inward slant such that they protrude inwardly at an angle (e.g., in a range of from 10 degrees to 60 degrees, such as from 15 degrees to 50 degrees, 45 degrees, or about 45 degrees) with respect to an outer surface of the first 36 end portion and an outer surface of the second 37 end portion, respectively. The angles (downwardly and / or inwardly) at which the first 32 and second 33 gripping flexures of the second stackable partition segment 30 protrude can be the same as those for the first 22 and second 23 gripping flexures of the first stackable partition segment 20 within the same partition 40. The second stackable partition segment 30 can optionally include a first boss (not pictured) protruding from a top surface thereof (e.g., a top surface of an end portion 36,37) and / or a notch (not pictured) recessed inwardly from an end portion 36,37 (e.g., an end portion opposite that from which the first boss protrudes). The first boss and / or the notch can be present so that the first 20 and second 30 stackable partition segments are interchangeable. In addition, the first boss (if present) and / or the notch (if present) can be used to help secure the stacking of the first 20 and second 30 stackable partition segments. For example, at least one of the stackable partition segments can include a hole on a bottom surface thereof configured to receive the first boss and / or a protrusion on the bottom surface to engage with the notch. The second stackable partition segment 30 can be symmetrical, such that the other side also has first 32 and second 33 gripping flexures with any or all of the features discussed herein.

[0044] Once put in place, the retaining cap 50 can be secured to the body 11 of the sample rack 10 using one or more fasteners 70,71, such as a first fastener 70 at a first end of the retaining cap 50 and second fastener 71 at a second end of the retaining cap 50 opposite from the first end. The body 11 of the sample rack 10 can include a respective hole 17 to receive the first 70 and / or second 71 fastener. Any suitable fastener can be used for the first 70 and / or second 71 fastener. For example, each of the first 70 and second 71 fasteners can be a screw. The retaining cap 50, which can also be referred to as a top plate, can be removed at any time if desired (e.g., for removal and / or replacement of any partition 40).

[0045] Referring to Figure 4A, in an embodiment, the gripping flexures 22,23 (and possibly 32,33) can protrude such that they are equally spaced or approximately equally spaced (each 90 degrees (or about 90 degrees) away from the next as you go around the compartment 60 when viewed from above). This positioning is designated with reference numerals 45 in Figure 4A. The positioning 45 of the gripping flexures 22,23 (and possibly 32,33) to be 90 degrees (or about 90 degrees) away from the next gripping flexure circumferentially around the compartment 60 advantageously ensures proper centering of the sample container 300 during use, as seen in the righthand compartment in Figure 4A and also with all sample containers 300 present in Figure 5. Also, as seen in Figure 4A, the gripping flexures 22,23 (and possibly 32,33) can be oriented 45 such that each is pointing at a 45 degree angle (or about a 45 degree angle) with respect to an outside surface of the body 11 of the sample rack 10.

[0046] In some embodiments, any or all of the gripping flexures 22,23,32,33 can be made of a deformable material (e.g., a resilient material having elasticity, such as a polymer (e.g., polypropylene (PP) or PP copolymer)). This can allow for the sample container 300 to be held in place in the compartment 60 during use without damaging the sample container 300.

[0047] An alternative embodiment of a sample rack 100 is depicted in Figures 4B and 6-12B. Referring to Figure 6, the sample rack 100 can generally be divided into multiple slots or compartments, each holding an individual sample container such as a test tube or a vial. The number and size of the slots may vary depending on the specific requirements of the bioanalysis workflow and the analysis instrument the sample rack is intended for.

[0048] As illustrated in Figure 6, the sample rack 100 can include a plurality of removable partitions 200 and a plurality of sample containers, such as test tubes or vials. The removable partitions 200 can comprise flexible restraining elements 220 capable of extending slightly or substantially downwards or upwards for steadily holding the sample containers 305.

[0049] Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view of the sample rack 100, which is designed for holding and transporting sample containers for sample analysis. The sample rack 100 is built to accommodate sample containers of a same size or different sizes in an aligned configuration. The sample rack 100 contains one or more rows of parallel open-top receptacles 600 for receiving the sample containers and may have a label, such as a rack serial number, a rack part number, a material type, or a barcode for identification purpose.

[0050] Figure 7B is an isometric view of the handle section of the sample rack 100 and Figure 7C is a cross-sectional view of the handle section of the sample rack 100. The sample rack 100 can be made of plastics and / or metal, adapted for receiving, holding, and transporting one or more sample containers. Further, the sample rack 100 generally has an asymmetric geometry allowing the rack to be loaded and / or transported only in one orientation.

[0051] Now referring to Figure 8A, the removable partition 200 can comprise a supporting wall 210, one or more restraining elements 220 integrally attached to one or more lateral surfaces of the supporting wall 210, and a lock portion 230 integrally attached to a top part of the supporting wall 210. Each restraining element can include one or more gripping portions 222,223 (see Figure 4B).

[0052] The one or more restraining elements 220 can be made of a resilient material having elasticity such that each restraining element 220 may be resiliently deformed or bent to be inclined at an angle with respect to a vertical axis of the supporting wall 210. In one embodiment, the angle is in a range of from 0° to 90°. Preferably, each restraining element 220 is resiliently deformed or bent to be inclined at an angle of 30° with respect to a vertical axis of the supporting wall 210.

[0053] In one embodiment, the removable partition 200 may have a first number of the restraining elements 220 integrally attached to one lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 and a second number of the restraining elements 220 integrally attached to an opposite lateral surface of the supporting wall 210.

[0054] In one embodiment, the first number of the restraining elements 220 is equal to the second number of the restraining elements 220. For instance, the removable partition 200 has two restraining elements 220 integrally attached to one lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 and another two restraining elements 220 integrally attached to the opposite lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 as shown in Figure 8A.

[0055] In another embodiment, the first number of the restraining elements 220 and the second number of the restraining elements 220 are different. For instance, the removable partition 200 has two restraining elements 220 integrally attached to one lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 and three restraining elements 220 integrally attached to the opposite lateral surface of the supporting wall 210.

[0056] In one embodiment, the first group of the restraining elements 220 on one lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 and the second group of the restraining elements 220 on the opposite lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 are symmetrically arranged with respect to a vertical axis of the supporting wall 210. For instance, a first restraining element of the first group of the restraining elements 220 on one lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 and a second the second group of the restraining elements 220 on the opposite lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 are symmetrically arranged with respect to a vertical axis of the supporting wall 210; while a third restraining element of the first group of the restraining elements 220 on one lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 and a fourth the second group of the restraining elements 220 on the opposite lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 are symmetrically arranged with respect to a vertical axis of the supporting wail 210.

[0057] In another embodiment, the first group of the restraining elements 220 on one lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 and the second group of the restraining elements 220 on the opposite lateral surface of the supporting wall 210 may be asymmetrically arranged with respect to a vertical axis of the supporting wall 210, respectively.

[0058] In yet another embodiment, the removable partition 200 may have one or more restraining elements 220 integrally attached to one lateral surface of the supporting wall 210, but have no restraining element 220 on the opposite lateral surface of the supporting wall 210.

[0059] The restraining elements 220 may be disposed at an arbitrary position on the lateral surface(s) of the supporting wall 210 and provided at any vertical height of the supporting wall 210 without any limitations.

[0060] The restraining elements 220 can be operatively projected to be inclined to a certain angle with respect to a vertical axis of the supporting wall 210 such that the distal end(s) of the restraining elements 220 contact the sample container which is vertically disposed in the cores of the sample rack 100, resulting in a gripping force being applied by the distal end(s) of the restraining elements 220 to the sample container. Accordingly, the sample container is stably supported by the removable partition 200 to be inhibited from falling.

[0061] In one embodiment, when a sample container is inserted into the core of the sample rack 100 through the opening of the core, the sample container presses against the restraining elements 220 of the removable partition 200, causing the resilient restraining elements 220 to elastically deform or bend downward and backward toward the supporting wall 210 of the removable partition 200 as the restraining elements 220 exert a gripping force on the outer surface of the sample container such that the sample container is stably supported by the restraining elements 220 of the removable partition 200. In one embodiment, the sample rack 100 may hold, for example, 10 sample containers. A removable partition 200 is inserted between adjacent sample containers in order to hold the sample containers symmetrically.

[0062] Referring to Figure 8A, the lock portion 230 of the removable partition 200 is designed to securely fix the removable partition 200 to the walls of the sample rack 100, which is formed with an opening / slot / slit. The lock portion 230 comprises a notch having a shape corresponding to the shape of the opening / slot / slit of the walls of the sample rack 100. As a result, the lock portion 230 can be easily snapped or inserted into the opening of the walls of the sample rack 100, securely coupling the removable partition 200 to the sample rack 100 to inhibit movements of the removable partition 200 relative to the sample rack 100.

[0063] To release the removable partition 200 from the sample rack 100, a pry tool such as a pry bar has to be used in order to separate the removable partition 200 from the walls of the sample rack 100.

[0064] Figure 8B shows a top view of the removable partitions 200 inserted into the sample rack 100 between adjacent sample containers. The flexible restraining elements 220 may be configured to have a proper shape and / or elasticity such that a sample container with the smallest diameter to be used with the sample rack 100 can be held sufficiently tight within the receptacles of the sample rack 100, even when the sample rack 100 is flipped over.

[0065] Further, the flexible restraining elements 220 may be configured to have a proper shape and / or elasticity such that it is possible to insert a sample container with the largest diameter into the receptacles of the sample rack 100 without any difficulty. Moreover, the flexible restraining elements 220 may be configured such that a robotic gripper may be able to remove any sample containers of any diameters / sizes from the sample rack 100 without any difficulty.

[0066] Moreover, the flexible restraining elements 220 may be configured such that the main weights of the sample containers and their content are held by the flexible restraining elements 220 and not by the supporting position. The sample rack 100 may be configured such that the sample containers may be placed in the sample rack 100 such that the bottom of the sample containers makes contact with the supporting surface of the sample rack 100. Alternatively, the sample containers may be just fixedly held by the flexible restraining elements 220, having scarcely or no contact with the supporting surface of the sample rack 100.

[0067] Preferably, the sample container inserted into the sample rack 100 and held stably by the flexible restraining elements 220 of the removable partitions 200 has a length in a range between substantially 41 mm and substantially 105 mm, allowing safe storing and / or receiving of the sample container by the sample rack 100.

[0068] Referring to Figure 8C, the removable partitions 200 are inserted into the sample rack 100 between the adjacent sample containers to stably hold the sample containers. The flexible restraining elements 220 of the removable partitions 200 may be configured to hold sample containers with a diameter from substantially 10 mm to substantially 16 mm.

[0069] Referring to Figures 9A-9C, in one embodiment, the restraining elements 220 may be formed to have a shape of a prong. For instance, the restraining elements 220 may be formed to have a U-like shape or V-like shape at the distal end.

[0070] In another embodiment, the restraining elements 220 may be formed to have a shape of a finger.

[0071] In another embodiment, the restraining elements 220 may be formed to have a shape of a paddle.

[0072] In yet another embodiment, the restraining elements 220 may be formed to have a shape of a fin.

[0073] Figure 10A shows an image of a prototype sample rack 100 with a prototype removable partition inserted between adjacent receptacles of the sample rack 100. The flexible restraining elements 220 of the removable partition 200 provide a reliable restraining and holding function for the sample containers (not shown) inserted into the receptacles of the sample rack 100.

[0074] A top view image of the prototype sample rack 100 with the prototype removable partition 200 is shown in Figure 10B.

[0075] Figure 11 A shows results of the displacement analysis performed on the lock portion 230 of the removable partition 200.

[0076] Figure 1 IB shows results of the stress analysis performed on the lock portion 230 of the removable partition 200.

[0077] Figure 12A shows results of the displacement analysis performed on the restraining elements 220 of the removable partition 200.

[0078] Figure 12B shows results of the stress analysis performed on the restraining elements 220 of the removable partition 200.

[0079] When the restraining elements and / or the lock portion of the removable partition of the embodiments of the subject invention lose their retention overtime, the removable partition can be released from the sample rack and replaced with a new removable partition, reducing the costs associated with replacing the whole sample rack. In some embodiments, the removable partitions 200 compatible with one sample container may be switched out for other removable partitions compatible with other sample containers (or other accessories), allowing the sample rack 100 to be compatible with a larger number of sample containers (or other accessories).

[0080] In some embodiments, the removable partitions 200 are of one material and the sample rack 100 are of another material, allowing the removable partitions 200 and the sample rack 100 to be of different materials. The materials selected for the removable partitions 200 and the sample rack 100 may be chosen based on the requirements of the system, based on costs, based on manufacturability, or based on another reason apparent to one skilled in the art.

[0081] In some embodiments, it is possible to replace just one removable partition 200 when the other removable partitions are still functioning properly, avoiding the need and costs of replacing the whole sample rack or all the removable partitions.

[0082] It is noted that the embodiments from Figures 1-4 A and 5 are better at keeping the sample container 300 centered than the embodiment from Figures 4B and 6-12B. This is demonstrated in Figures 4A and 4B, where the sample container 300 is centered in the compartment 60 (Figure 4A) and the sample container 305 is off-center in the compartment 600 (Figure 4B).

[0083] Any features of the body of the sample rack 100 from Figures 4B and 6-12B discussed herein can be present (or not) on the sample rack 10 from Figures 1-4A and 5.

[0084] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well as the singular forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not prelude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0085] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one having ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. When ranges are used herein, combinations and subcombinations of ranges (e.g., subranges within the disclosed range) and specific values therein are intended to be explicitly included. When the term “about” is used herein, in conjunction with a numerical value, it is understood that the value can be in a range of 95% of the value to 105% of the value, i.e. the value can be + / - 5% of the stated value. For example, “about 1 kg” means from 0.95 kg to 1.05 kg.

[0086] In describing the invention, it will be understood that a number of techniques and steps are disclosed. Each of these has individual benefits and each can also be used in conjunction with one or more, or in some cases all, of the other disclosed techniques. Accordingly, for the sake of clarity, this description will refrain from repeating every possible combination of the individual steps in an unnecessary fashion. Nevertheless, the specification and claims should be read with the understanding that such combinations are entirely within the scope of the invention and the claims.

[0087] It should be understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application. All patents, patent applications, provisional applications, and publications referred to or cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety, including all figures and tables, to the extent they are not inconsistent with the explicit teachings of this specification.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A removable partition for securely supporting a sample container received in a sample rack, the removable partition comprising: a first stackable partition segment, comprising: a first end portion; a second end portion opposite from the first end portion; a first wall portion disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion; a first gripping flexure protruding inwardly and downwardly from the first end portion; and a second gripping flexure protruding inwardly and downwardly from the second end portion; a second stackable partition segment on which the first stackable partition segment is stacked, the second stackable partition segment comprising: a third end portion; a fourth end portion opposite from the third end portion; a second wall portion disposed between the third end portion and the fourth end portion; a third gripping flexure protruding inwardly and downwardly from the third end portion; and a fourth gripping flexure protruding inwardly and downwardly from the fourth end portion.

2. The removable partition according to claim 1, wherein each of the first gripping flexure, the second gripping flexure, the third gripping flexure, and the fourth gripping flexure comprises a resilient material having elasticity.

3. The removable partition according to claim 2, wherein the resilient material is polypropylene (PP) copolymer.

4. The removable partition according to any of claims 1-3, wherein the first gripping flexure protrudes downwardly at a first angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees withrespect to the first wall portion, wherein the first gripping flexure protrudes inwardly at a second angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees with respect to an outer surface of the first end portion, wherein the second gripping flexure protrudes downwardly at a third angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees with respect to the first wall portion, wherein the second gripping flexure protrudes inwardly at a fourth angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees with respect to an outer surface of the second end portion, wherein the third gripping flexure protrudes downwardly at a fifth angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees with respect to the second wall portion, wherein the third gripping flexure protrudes inwardly at a sixth angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees with respect to an outer surface of the third end portion, wherein the fourth gripping flexure protrudes downwardly at a seventh angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees with respect to the second wall portion, wherein the fourth gripping flexure protrudes inwardly at an eighth angle in a range of from 15 degrees to 50 degrees with respect to an outer surface of the fourth end portion.

5. The removable partition according to claim 4, wherein each of the second angle and the fourth angle is about 45 degrees.

6. The removable partition according to any of claims 4-5, wherein each of the sixth angle and the eighth angle is about 45 degrees.

7. The removable partition according to any of claims 1 -6, wherein the first stackable partition segment further comprises a first boss protruding from a top surface of the first end portion.

8. The removable partition according to any of claims 1-7, wherein the first stackable partition segment further comprises a notch recessed inwardly from the second end portion.

9. The removable partition according to any of claims 1-8, wherein the first stackable partition segment further comprises a fifth gripping flexure and a sixth gripping flexure protruding from an opposite side of the first stackable partition segment from which the first gripping flexure and the second gripping flexure protrude.

10. The removable partition according to any of claims 1-9, wherein the second stackable partition segment further comprises a seventh gripping flexure and an eighth gripping flexure protruding from an opposite side of the second stackable partition segment from which the third gripping flexure and the fourth gripping flexure protrude.

11. The removable partition according to any of claims 1 -9, wherein a height of the first stackable partition segment is equal to a height of the second stackable partition segment.

12. The removable partition according to any of claims 1-11, wherein a thickness of the first end portion and a thickness of the second end portion are both greater than a thickness of the first wall portion.

13. The removable partition according to any of claims 1-12, wherein a thickness of the third end portion and a thickness of the fourth end portion are both greater than a thickness of the second wall portion.

14. A sample rack configured to hold at least one sample container, the sample rack comprising: a body; a plurality of removable partitions disposed in the body, wherein each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions is the removable partition according to any of claims 1-13; a plurality of compartments formed between adjacent removable partitions of the plurality of removable partitions, each compartment of the plurality of compartments configured to hold a sample container of the at least one sample container; and a retaining cap disposed over an upper surface of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions, wherein the retaining cap holds the plurality of removable partitions in place in the body during use.

15. The sample rack according to claim 14, further comprising at least one fastener securing the retaining cap to the body of the sample rack.

16. The sample rack according to any of claims 14-15, wherein the retaining cap comprises a plurality of first boss-receiving holes configured to respectively receive the first boss of the first stackable partition segment of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions.

17. The sample rack according to any of claims 14-16, wherein the body comprises a plurality of second bosses protruding from an upper surface thereof, and wherein the retaining cap comprises a plurality of second boss-receiving holes configured to respectively receive the plurality of second bosses of the body.

18. The sample rack according to claim 17, wherein the notch of the first stackable partition segment of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions is disposed around a second boss of the plurality of second bosses of the body.

19. The sample rack according to any of claims 14-18, wherein the first gripping flexure of the first stackable partition segment of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions is oriented at an angle of about 45 degrees with respect to a first outside surface of the body, and wherein the second gripping flexure of the first stackable partition segment of each removable partition of the plurality of removable partitions is oriented at an angle of about 45 degrees with respect to a second outside surface of the body opposite from the first outside surface of the body.

20. The sample rack according to any of claims 14-19, wherein the retaining cap comprises a rigid material.

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