Probe washstation

Abstract

The probe washstation assembly includes a unitary housing with a first at least one well fluidically connected to a first channel extending through the first at least one well at an inlet region of the housing, a second at least one well fluidically connected to a second channel extending through the second at least one well at the inlet region of the housing, a first inlet fluidically connected to the first channel, a second inlet fluidically connected to the second channel, and a waste pathway configured to direct waste fluid from the first and second at least one well to an outlet. The first and second channels are spaced apart from one another.

Description

PROBE WASHSTATIONCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is being filed on August 21, 2024, as a PCT International application and claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Application No. 63 / 520,884, filed on August 21, 2023, entitled PROBE WASHSTATION, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Pipetting equipment is often used in laboratory settings to reliably transport fluid from one container to another. Many applications require a clean environment to avoid possible contamination during experiments. In commercial laboratory settings, automated liquid pipettors are used to reduce labor costs associated with large pipetting projects while potentially increasing the cleanliness, efficiency, and accuracy of the project. In some cases, pipetting instruments house washstations to ensure pipette tips, or probes, are free from contamination prior to use. These washstations use varying fluids, sometimes in significant amounts, to perform the washing of probes. These washstations also occupy valuable space within a pipetting instrument. Therefore, there is a need for a washstation that reduces footprint and reduces the volumes of liquid needed to wash probes.SUMMARY

[0003] In general terms, this disclosure is directed to a probe washstation and methods of operating said probe washstation. In some embodiments, and by non-limiting example, the probe washstation assembly includes a unitary housing with a first at least one well fluidically connected to a first channel extending through the first at least one well at an inlet region of the housing, a second at least one well fluidically connected to a second channel extending through the second at least one well at the inlet region of the housing, a first inlet fluidically connected to the first channel, a second inlet fluidically connected to the second channel, and a waste pathway configured to direct waste fluid from the first and second at least one well to an outlet. The first and second channels are spaced apart from one another. In some examples, the probe washstation assembly includes a waste funnel configured to collect waste fluid from both the first and second at least one well at an outlet region of the housing. In some examples, the probewashstation assembly includes a first drain leg and a second drain leg, wherein the first drain leg extends between the waste funnel and the second drain leg. and the second drain leg extends between the first drain leg and the outlet. In some examples, the probe washstation assembly includes a first pump system and a second pump system. The first pump system is configured to fill the first and / or the second at least one well with a first fluid and the second pump system is configured to fill the second at least one well with a second fluid. In some examples, the first and second pump systems include a first inlet fitting and a second inlet fitting respectively, where the first inlet fitting is configured to engage the first inlet and the second inlet fitting is configured to engage the second inlet. In some examples, the first fluid is a cleaning solution and the second fluid is water. In some examples, the first and second pump systems each include at least one check valve and a peristaltic pump. In some examples, the first pump system can fill the first and second at least one well simultaneously. In some examples, the probe washstation assembly includes a waste collector with a drain fitting that engages the second drain leg. In some examples, the housing is made from a single piece of material. In some examples, the housing is polypropylene. In some examples, the probe washstation assembly includes a riser positioned at the bottom end of the housing and configured to provide clearance at the first and second inlets. In some examples, housing includes a plurality of riser mounting locations at the bottom end.

[0004] In some embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a washstation assembly includes a unitary housing, a first pump system, a second pump system, and a waste container system. The unitary housing includes a first at least one well fluidically connected to a first channel extending through the first at least one well at an inlet region of the housing; a second at least one well fluidically connected to a second channel extending through the second at least one well at the inlet region of the housing; a first inlet fluidically connected to the first channel; a second inlet fluidically connected to the second channel; and a waste pathway configured to direct waste fluid from the first and second at least one well to an outlet. The first and second channels are spaced apart from one another. The first pump system includes a first fluid reservoir and a first pump for pumping a first fluid from the first fluid reservoir to the housing. The first pump system is configured to deliver the first fluid to either or both the first and second inlets of the housing such that the first at least one well and the second at least one well can fill with the first fluid. The second pump system includes a second fluid reservoir and a second pump for pumping a second fluid from the second fluid reservoir to the housing. Thesecond pump system is configured to deliver the second fluid to the second inlet of the housing such that the second at least one well can fill with the second fluid. The waste container system includes a waste container. The waste container system is configured to direct waste fluid from the waste pathway to the waste container. In some examples, the washstation assembly includes a waste funnel configured to collect waste fluid from both the first and second at least one well at an outlet region of the housing.

[0005] In some embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a method for washing at least one probe includes simultaneously supplying a first at least one well and a second at least one well within a unitary housing with a first fluid, where the first at least one well is configured for cleaning and the second at least one well is configured for rinsing. The method further includes displacing the first fluid in the second at least one well with a second fluid. The method further includes inserting the at least one probe into the first fluid in the first at least one well and cleaning the at least one probe in the first at least one well. The method further includes removing the at least one probe from the first fluid in the first at least one well. The method further includes inserting the at least one probe into the second fluid in the second at least one well and rinsing the at least one probe in the second at least one well. In some examples, cleaning the at least one probe in the first at least one well further includes aspirating the first fluid into the at least one probe and then dispensing it out of the at least one probe. In some examples, cleaning the at least one probe is selectively repeated. In some examples, rinsing the at least one probe in the second at least one well further includes flowing the second fluid over the external surface of the at least one probe while dispensing a system fluid through the at least one probe. In some examples, rinsing the at least one probe is selectively repeated.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example pipetting instrument in accordance wi th the principles of the present disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an example washstation assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an example housing assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an example housing in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a back perspective view of the housing of FIG. 4.

[0011] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of the housing of FIG. 4.

[0012] FIG. 7 is a top view of the housing of FIG. 4.

[0013] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the housing of FIG. 4.

[0014] FIG. 9 is a detail view of a portion of FIG. 8.

[0015] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the housing of FIG. 4.

[0016] FIG. 11 is a front view of the housing of FIG. 4.

[0017] FIG. 12 is a second side view of the housing of FIG. 4.

[0018] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional front perspective view of the housing of FIG. 4 about line A-A as defined in FIG. 12.

[0019] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional front view of the housing of FIG. 4 about line A- A as defined in FIG. 12.

[0020] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional front view of the housing of FIG. 4 about line B- B as defined in FIG. 12.

[0021] FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of another example housing in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional front perspective new of the housing of FIG. 16 about line C-C as defined in FIG. 16.

[0023] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of an example riser in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 19 is a front view of the riser of FIG. 16.

[0025] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of an example washstation assembly that also depicts fluid flow paths in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of washing at least one probe in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of cleaning at least one probe in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of rinsing at least one probe in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the claims attached hereto. Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification are notintended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the many possible embodiments for the appended claims.

[0030] Figure 1 depicts an example pipetting instrument 100 that may house a washstation for the cleaning and sanitizing of fixed or disposable pipette tips or probes. Typical pipetting instruments, such as the one shown, include a gantry system 101 that moves a probe arm 103 about the pipetting instrument 100. The gantry system 101 is capable of movement about the X and Z axes, while the probe arm 103 is capable of movement about the Y axis. In combination, the gantry system 101 and probe arm 103 can perform numerous actions within the pipetting instrument 100, including the washing of probes. In another example, the gantry system 101 is capable of movement about the X axis, while the probe arm 103 controls the movement about the Y and Z axes. In some examples, the probe arm 103 controls the movement of each pipette tip, or probe, about the Y and Z axes independently such that a single probe, or subset of probes, can be moved while remaining probes remain stationary.

[0031] The pipetting instrument 100 may also control various aspects of the pipette tips, or probes, such as dispensing and aspirating functions. In some examples, the pressure differential for pipetting operations, whether it be positive or negative for dispensing or aspirating, may be generated using pneumatics or hydraulics. In the case of a hydraulic pipetting instrument, a sy stem fluid, such as deionized or distilled water, may be used to provide the pressure differential. In some cases, the system fluid is part of a fluidic network in fluid communication with the probe or probes of a pipetting instrument 100. This allows the system fluid to be ejected through the probes and effectively purge or rinse contaminants out of the probes.

[0032] Probe washstations have many applications where the reusing and / or sanitizing of pipette tips, or probes, is required. In some instances, even where disposable probes are used, it may be beneficial to ensure that probes are completely free, or nearly completely free, of contamination prior to use. Any form of contamination can be detrimental to the growth of organic compounds such as cells. Once the probes have been fully washed, they may be used in any number of applications, such as with a microbioreactor. A microbioreactor, or other equipment, may also be housed within pipetting instrument 100. As will be discussed in detail below, a washstation includes a section for cleaning and / or sanitizing probes, a section for rinsing any cleaner from the probes, and a means for cycling the fluids used in the cleaning and rinsing process.

[0033] Figure 2 shows a block diagram of an example washstation assembly 102 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. As depicted, the washstation assembly 102 includes a housing assembly 104, a first pump system 106a, a second pump system 106b, and a waste container system 108. Each will be discussed in turn.

[0034] Figure 3 shows a block diagram of an example housing assembly 104 that includes a mounting plate 109, a housing 110, a riser 111, and two channel plugs 113. As shown, the mounting plate is used to connect the housing assembly to the pipetting instrument 100.

[0035] The housing 110, 110a may be of any shape or size suited for the specific pipetting application. One example of the housing is shown in FIGS. 4-15. Another example is shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. In both examples, the housing 110, 110a forms a unitary, generally rectangular cuboid shape having a top end 112, a bottom end 114, a first side 116a, a second side 116b, a back side 122, and a front side 120.

[0036] The top end 112 includes an opening with a number of wells 132 at an outlet region 134. The wells 132 are divided within the housing 110 into a first at least one well 132a and a second at least one well 132b such that the first at least one well 132a is not fluidically connected to the second at least one well 132b during use of the washstation assembly.

[0037] The bottom end 114, as seen in FIGS. 6 and 10, includes a first inlet 124a and a second inlet 124b as well as a number of riser mounting locations 146 for joining the housing 1 10 to the riser 1 1 1. In other examples, where the riser 1 1 1 is not needed, the bottom side may not include riser mounting locations, but may further include locations for attachment to a mounting plate 109 or the pipetting instrument 100. The first inlet 124a is fluidically connected to the first at least one well 132a. Similarly, the second inlet 124b is fluidically connected to the second at least one well 132b. The first and second inlets 124a, 124b are configured to interface with an external supply of fluid. In one example, the first inlet 124a is fluidically connected to the first pump system 106a and the second inlet 124b is fluidically connected to the second pump system 106b. In another example, the first and second inlets 124a, 124b are fluidically connected to the first pump system 106a, while only the second inlet 124b is fluidically connected to the second pump system 106b.

[0038] In the present example shown in FIG. 5, the first side 116a includes a channel plug region 154 for plugging an external opening formed by the creation of a first channel 150a, as can be seen in FIGS. 13 and 14. In the present example, the first channel 150ais horizontally oriented. In other examples, the first channel 150a may be oriented in other directions and have a cross-section that varies in size and shape, and may extend non-linearly. The channel plug region 154 can be sealed using the channel plug 1 13. The second side 116b includes an outlet 160 and another channel plug region 154 for plugging the opening formed by the creation of a second channel 150b. In other examples, such as in FIGS. 16 and 17, the outlet 160 extends from the front face 120 instead. In the present example, the second channel 150b is horizontally oriented. In other examples, the second channel 150b may be in other orientations and have a cross-section that varies in size and shape, and may extend non-linearly. The outlet 160 is configured to interface with an external drain for fluid. In one example, the outlet 160 is fluidically connected to the waste container system 108. As best seen in FIGS. 6 and 11, the present example further includes three distinct surfaces on the second side 1 16b. A second side first surface 180, a recessed surface 182, and a second side second surface 184. All three surfaces are generally parallel to the first side 116a with the second side first surface 180 being furthest from the first side 116a and the recessed surface 182 being closest the first side 116a. The recessed surface 182 may be necessary or beneficial in certain applications to provide clearance for fittings or other components at the outlet 160. In other examples, such as in FIGS. 16 and 17, the second side 116b may be one continuous and flat surface, like the first side 116a.

[0039] The housing 110 includes an inlet region 148 where fluid from the first and second inlet 124a, 124b meets the first at least one well and the second at least one well 132a, 132b. The first inlet 124a is fluidically linked to the first at least one well 132a by a first channel 150a and the second inlet 124b is fluidically linked to the second at least one well 132b by a second channel 150b.

[0040] In the present example, each inlet 124a, 124b has three distinct sections. An inlet fiting region 190 extends from the botom end 114 toward the respective channel (i.e., first inlet relates to first channel). The inlet fiting region 190 is intended to interface with an inlet fiting 208 for a pump system 106 that provides fluids to the housing 110. The inlet fiting region 190 terminates at an inlet shoulder 192. The inlet shoulder 192 may provide a seal and / or a stop between the end of the inlet fiting 208 and the inlet 124a, 124b as the fiting is inserted into the inlet 124a, 124b. In some instances, a gasket may be used at the inlet shoulder 192. The inlet fiting region 190 may include threads or other means for engaging the inlet fiting. The second region is a transition region 194. The transition region 194 has a smaller diameter than the inlet fitting region 190 andextends between the inlet fitting region 190 and the third region, a channel region 196. The channel region 196 has a smaller diameter than the transition region 194 and extends into the respective channel 150a, 150b such that there is a fluidic connection between the inlet fitting 208 and the channel 150. Between each region there is a transition in diameter which may occur any number of ways. FIGS. 13 and 14 show cross section views of the housing 110 about line A- A. In this example, the inlet shoulder 192 forms a ledge with a square or nearly square angle between the inlet fitting region 190 and the transition region 194. The change between the transition region 194 and the channel region 196 is a more gradual taper.

[0041] The first and second channels 150a, 150b extend from their respective exterior sides 116a, 116b (at the channel plug region 154) toward each other at the interior of housing 110 in a direction generally parallel to both the bottom end 114 and front side 120. The first and second channels 150a, 150b are not fluidically connected to each other. The channel region 196 of the inlet 124a, 124b joins the respective channel 150a, 150b from the bottom end 114 such that fluid may be pumped into the channel 150a, 150b from the inlet 124a, 124b. Each of the first at least one well 132a extends to the first channel 150a such that fluid from the first inlet 124a may move into each of the first at least one well 132a. Similarly, each of the second at least one well 132b extends to the second channel 150b such that fluid from the second inlet 124b may move into each of the second at least one well 132b.

[0042] The first and second channels 150a, 150b may use channel plugs 1 13 that seal the exterior ends of each channel such that fluid can remain in the channels 150a, 150b and in the first at least one well and the second at least one well 132a, 132b. Where channel plugs are needed, such as in the example shown in FIGS. 4-15, a channel plug region 154 extends from the exterior surface (first or second sides 1 16a, 116b) into the channel in order to provide space for the channel plug 113 to seat. The channel plug region 154 has a larger diameter than the rest of the channel 150a, 150b, creating a shoulder for seating and / or sealing of the channel plug 113. The channel plugs 113 are used when the channel is created through manufactunng methods that require entering from an exterior surface. In other examples, such as with 3D printed parts, channel plugs 113 would not be necessary.

[0043] Both the first at least one well and the second at least one well 132a, 132b extend between the respective channels 150a, 150b and the outlet region 134. Each well 132 terminates at an outlet end 133 in the outlet region 134. Each well 132 forms acylindrical hole that extends vertically, partially between the top and bottom sides. The diameter of each well may vary according to the type and size of pipette, or probe, intended to be used. Similarly, the length of each well may vary depending on the length of the probe to be cleaned. In order to minimize the fluids needed during the cleaning process, the diameter and length of the well 132 may be close fitting with the probes, having only a slightly larger diameter and length than the probe. In one example, the first at least one well 132a includes four wells. In one example, the second at least one well 132b includes four wells. In one example, there are eight total wells on a 9 millimeter pitch.

[0044] A divider 138 separates each well 132 at the outlet end 133 in order to avoid mixing between wells 132. Adjacent the outlet end 133 is a well drain 136. The well drain 136 is formed in part by a sloped surface 135 extending from the outlet end 133 of the well 132 to a well outlet surface 137. The divider 138 acts as a wall around a portion of the outlet end 133 of the well 132 and forms another part of the well drain 136. The divider 138 includes a straight portion 139 that extends partially between the front and back sides 120, 122, terminating on one end at the well outlet surface 137. The straight portion 139 terminates at the other end where it meets a curved portion 131 of the divider 138. The curved portion 131 wraps partially around each well 132 along the front side 120 of each well 132. The curved portion joins neighboring straight portions 139 that surround a given well 132. The divider effectively forms a U-shaped blockade that directs fluid to the well outlet surface 137. In the present example, neither the outlet end 133 nor the divider 138 extend to the top end 112.

[0045] The well drains 136 direct fluid leaving the wells 132 into a waste pathway 156. FIG. 15 shows an example waste pathway 156 that includes a waste funnel 140, a drain leg 142, and the outlet 160. As fluids from the first at least one well and the second at least one well 132a, 132b are cycled in the housing 110, the waste fluids exit the housing 110 about the waste pathway 156. Fluid travelling from a well 132 will travel down the well drain 136, down the well outlet surface 137, meet a funnel slope 141, and continue downward to the drain leg 142. FIG. 15 shows that the entirety of the waste pathway is behind the wells, channels, and inlets when viewed from the front side.

[0046] FIG. 5 shows the waste funnel 140 extends a length L between first and second funnel sides 145a, 145b. The length L extends at least between the first and last well drain 136. The width of the waste funnel 140 is at least as wide as the diameter of the drain leg 142. A perimeter of the waste funnel is formed by the well outlet surface137 and a funnel back wall 143 where each wall curves together at the first and second funnel sides 145a, 145b. A base of the waste funnel 140 includes the funnel slope 141 on each side of the drain leg 142. The funnel slope 141 is a flat surface angled downward from the first and second funnel sides 145a, 145b toward the drain leg 142.

[0047] In the present example, the drain leg 142 is a vertical cavity with a tubular shape meant to connect the waste funnel 140 with the outlet 160. Both of the funnel slopes 141 meet the drain leg 142 at the waste funnel 140 side of the drain leg 142 such that fluid flowing down the funnel slopes 141 from both the first at least one well and the second at least one well 132a, 132b will continue into the drain leg 142. The drain leg 142 is centered between the first at least one well and the second at least one well 132a, 132b about a line B-B extending between the first side 116a and second side 116b. The drain leg 142 has a larger diameter opening than the individual wells 132 in order to facilitate draining from the waste funnel without causing a backup beyond the capacity of the waste funnel 140.

[0048] The outlet 160 serves as a link between the housing 110, 110a and the waste container system 108 where fluids used in the cleaning and rinsing process may be purged from the housing 110, 110a. In the example shown in FIGS. 4-15, the outlet 160 is on the recessed surface 182. Like the inlets 124a, 124b the outlet 160, shown in the present example, has three sections. An outlet fitting region 162 extends to ard the drain leg 142 from the recessed surface 182. The outlet fitting region 162 is configured to engage an outlet fitting 212 from a waste container system 108 intended to hold waste exiting the main body through the waste pathway. The outlet fitting region 162 terminates at an outlet shoulder 163. The outlet shoulder 163 may provide a seal and / or a stop between the end of the outlet fitting 212 and the outlet 160 as the fitting is inserted into the outlet. In some instances, a gasket may be used at the outlet shoulder 163. The outlet fitting region 162 may include threads or other means for engaging the outlet fitting 212. The second region is an outlet transition region 164. The outlet transition region 164 has a smaller diameter than the outlet fitting region 162 and extends between the outlet fitting region 162 and the third region, a drain leg region 166. The drain leg region 166 has a smaller diameter than the outlet transition region 164 and extends into the drain leg 142 such that there is a fluidic connection between the outlet fitting 212 and the drain leg 142. Between each region there is a transition between diameters which may occur any number of ways. FIG. 15 shows a cross section view of the housing 110 about line B-B. In this example, the outlet shoulder 163 forms a ledge with a square or nearly squareangle between the outlet fitting region 162 and the outlet transition region 164. The change between the transition region and the channel region is more gradual as a taper.

[0049] Another example housing, housing 110a, is shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. Housing 1 10a shares many of the same features as described above with respect to housing 110. Therefore, the same numbering is used to refer to like components between housing 110 and housing 110a. Housing 110a includes an outlet 160 that exits housing 110a from the front face 120. In this example, the second side 116b is flat, like the first side 116a. FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional perspective view where the drain leg 142 can be seen extending downward to meet outlet 160. In this example, outlet 160 is positioned between the first and second inlets 124a, 124b.

[0050] The housing 110, 110a may be made of any material, or multiple materials, suitable for use with cleaning and rinsing fluids commonly used. In one example, the housing 110, 110a is made from plastic. In another example, the housing 110, 110a is made from metal. In another example, the housing 110, 110a is made entirely from a single piece of polypropylene. Polypropylene is compatible with common cleaning / sanitizing fluids such as NaOH. Any internal cavity described above and related to the housing 110, 110a may further include a taper from the exterior tow ard the interior because of manufacturing processes such as injection molding. Injection molding commonly requires taper angles between 0.5 and 3 degrees in order to facilitate any slides or other means of creating cavities. In other instances, the cavities may be made from drilling operations or 3D printing such that tapers are not required.

[0051] The riser 111 may be part of the housing assembly 104. An example riser 111 is shown in FIGS. 18 and 19. The riser 111 attaches to the bottom side of the housing 110, 110a at housing mounting locations 172. The housing mounting locations correspond to riser mounting locations 146 on the bottom side of the housing 1 10, 110a. The riser shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 is a C-shaped support that includes a riser base 171, first and second riser sides 173a, 173b, and first and second riser ends 176a, 176b. The first riser end 176a includes two riser mounting locations 146 and the second riser end 176b includes two riser mounting locations 146. The first and second riser ends 176a. 176b correspond to the first and second sides 116a, 116b of the housing 110, 1 10a, such that the first riser end 176a meets the housing 110, 110a near the first side 116a of the bottom end 114 and the second riser end 176b meets the housing 110. 110a near the second side 116b of the bottom end 114. An open portion of the riser 111 exists between the first and second riser ends 176a, 176b. The open portion provides clearance aroundthe first and second inlets 124a, 124b to enable inlet fittings 208a, 208b to extend from the bottom end 114 of the housing 110, 110a. The first and second riser sides 173a. 173b extend vertically from the riser base 171. The first and second riser sides 173a, 173b extend the same length.

[0052] The riser sides may 173a, 173b extend to any desired length. For instance, it may be desirable to have riser sides that extend to a height that provides clearance for inlet fittings 208a. 208b or other components within the pipetting instrument 100. The riser 111 may also be used to bring the housing 110, 110a to the desired height within the pipetting instrument 100 such that a gantry or related system controlling pipettes, or probes, within the pipetting instrument 100 is able to reach the wells 132 of the housing 110, 110a. The riser 111 may also be used to reduce the gantry system 101 travel distance, thereby reducing cycle time of the cleaning process. The riser may also be used to provide a sufficient height differential between the outlet 160 and the waste container system 108 such that fluid may flow out of the housing 110, 110a and into a waste container 220 bygravity. The riser base 171 connects to bottom ends of the riser sides 173a. 173b. The riser 111 shape may vary to accommodate varying housing 110, 110a designs. For instance, where the inlets 124a, 124b, exit from a surface other than the bottom surface, the open portion of the riser 111 would be unnecessary. In some examples, a riser 111 is not needed. For example, housing 110, 110a could be shaped to incorporate the function of the riser. The riser base 171 may attach directly to the pipetting instrument or to an intermediary part such as the mounting plate 109, as shown in FIG. 3. In the example shown in FIG. 17, the riser base includes mounting plate attachment locations 174 that correspond to related attachment locations on the mounting plate 109.

[0053] The mounting plate 109. represented in FIG. 3. may be used to connect the washstation assembly 102 to the pipetting instrument 100. The mounting plate 109 may include attachment points that correspond to the mounting plate attachment locations 174 of the riser 111. The riser 111 and mounting plate 109 may be attached in any number of ways. For example, the riser 111 and mounting plate 109 may be attached by screws, bolts, ties, or pern nuts. In some embodiments, the mounting plate 109 may not be needed.

[0054] The housing assembly 104 may be constructed a number of ways. The example shown in FIGS. 4-17 shows housing 110,110a made as a single component, with a single piece of material. By combining both the cleaning / sanitizing operation (first at least one well 132a) with the rinsing operation (second at least one well 132b) in asingle component, valuable floor space is saved in the pipetting instrument. Similarly, the combination enables a shared waste collection solution which further reduces space and the need for an additional waste container system. Another benefit of the single component housing 110, 110a, is the reduced gantry system 101 movement that saves cycle time during operation.

[0055] First and second pump systems 106a, 106b control the flow of fluids in the housing 110. 110a. FIG. 20 shows a schematic example of first and second pump systems 106a, 106b. Both pump systems 106a, 106b may be controlled by processing circuity having a memory for storing instruction which, when executed, control the pump systems. The first pump system 106a includes a first fluid reservoir 200a, a first pump 202a, a fluidic wye 204, two check valves 206, and a first inlet fitting 208a. The first fluid reservoir 200a holds a first fluid. The first fluid reservoir 200a may be any container, such as a carboy. The first fluid may be any type of fluid suitable for a specific cleaning / sanitizing operation. In one example the first fluid is NaOH. In one example, the first pump 202a is a peristaltic pump that is connected to the first fluid reservoir 200a by tubing. The first pump 202a pulls the first fluid from the first fluid reservoir 200a and pumps the fluid through an inlet of the fluidic wye 204. The fluidic wye includes first and second fluidic wye outlets where the first fluidic wye outlet is fluidically linked to the first inlet 124a and the second fluidic wye outlet is fluidically linked to the second inlet 124b. The check valves 206 are placed between each fluidic wye outlet and the respective inlet in order to control the flow from the first fluid reservoir 200a to the first and second inlets 124a, 124b.

[0056] The second pump system 106b includes a second fluid reservoir 200b, a second pump 202b, a check valve 206, a fluidic wye 205, and a second inlet fitting 208b. The second fluid reservoir holds a second fluid. The second fluid reservoir 200b may be any container, such as a carboy. The second fluid may be any type of fluid suitable for a specific rinsing operation. In one example, the second fluid is deionized water. The second pump 202b is functionally the same as first pump 202a and may also be a peristaltic pump. In one example, the second pump 202b is connected to the second fluid reservoir 200b by tubing. The second pump 202b pulls the second fluid from the second reservoir 200b and pumps the second fluid through a first inlet of the fluidic wye 205. Between the second pump 202b and the fluidic wye 205 is a check valve to control the flow of fluid. A second inlet of the fluidic wye 205 is fluidically connected to a second outlet of the fluidic wye 205. The fluidic wye 205 includes an outlet where either the firstfluid from the first pump system 106a or the second fluid from the second pump system 106b travels to the second inlet fitting 208b. There are many alternate configurations. In one example, the first fluid does not flow to the second inlet 124b and therefore a fluidic wye is not needed. In another example, both the first and second fluids can flow to both the first and second inlets and therefor additional fluidic wyes and check valves are needed.

[0057] The waste container system 108 collects waste fluid from the housing. The waste container system includes a waste container 220 and an outlet fitting 212 with tubing connecting the two. In the present example, the waste container system collects both the first and second fluids in a waste container 220. Waste fluid flows through the waste pathway 156 and exits the housing 110, 110a at the outlet 160 where the outlet fitting 212 is connected. The waste fluid may flow by gravity or by a pump. In the schematic example shown in FIG. 18, waste fluid flow s through the outlet fitting 212 and through tubing to the w aste container 220 by gravity.

[0058] In operation, the washstation assembly 102 washes / sanitizes and rinses pipette tips or probes to ensure operations within a bioreactor, or other system where contamination is detrimental, can be performed successfully. The control of the pipetting instrument 100 and the w ashstation assembly 102 may be by automated programs. These programs may run on regularly scheduled routines, or they may use input data from sensors to determine routine frequency.

[0059] In general, the first pump system runs the first fluid through both the first and second inlets and fills the first at least one well and the second at least one well with the first fluid. In this example, the first fluid is a sanitizing fluid. The first pump system may continue to pump the first fluid into the first at least one well and the second at least one well such that the wells overfill and begin to drain excess fluid into the waste pathway. By overfilling the first at least one well and the second at least one well, any debris or contamination within the wells can be drawn into the w aste pathway by the flow of the first fluid. The duration of the flow of fluid may vary depending on, for example, the fluid used, the type of contamination that may be present, and the size of the wells, etc. Once the first fluid has sufficiently run through the wells to the point where the w ells are free of contamination, the first pump system stops the flow such that the first fluid remains in both the first at least one well and the second at least one well. Then the second pump begins to flow the second fluid through the second inlet and into the second at least one well. As the second fluid flows into the second at least one well, the first fluid isdisplaced into the waste pathway. The second pump may continue to pump the second fluid into the second at least one well such that the second at least one well overfills with the second fluid. The flow of the second fluid may continue until there is no remnant, or only trace amounts, of the first fluid in the second at least one well. In some instances, the first fluid can be detrimental to the growth of cells, such that there can be no remnants of the first fluid in the second at least one well when the at least one probe is rinsed. Once the second at least one well has been flushed of the first fluid, the second pump stops such that the second fluid remains in the second at least one well.

[0060] Once the first at least one well has a clean supply of the first fluid and the second at least one well has a clean supply of the second fluid, the washstation is ready to receive probes for cleaning. The gantry system 101 and probe arm 103 positions a number of probes (less than or equal to the number of wells) above the first at least one well. The probe arm 103 lowers at least one of the probes into the first at least one well. Once the at least one probe is submerged into the first fluid, the at least one probe mayaspirate an amount of the first fluid into the at least one probe. The at least one probe may then be raised above the first at least one well by the probe arm 103. The gantry system 101 may then perform a rapid shaking, oscillation, or back and forth, movement. The at least one probe may then purge the first fluid within them, either while above the first at least one well or while in the first at least one well. The aspiration and purging may be repeated any number of times, as needed to fully- clean or sanitize the at least one probe. During aspiration, an air gap forms between the contaminated (aspirated) first fluid and the system fluid running through the probe arm 103 and fluidically connected to the at least one probe. During the aspiration and purging, the first pump may supply a flow of first fluid to the first at least one well. Once the at least one probe has been purged for the last time, the probe arm raises from the first at least one well and the gantry system 101 moves the at least one probe above the second at least one well. A related process is repeated to rinse the at least one probe.

[0061] Once the at least one probe is positioned above the second at least one well, the probe arm 103 lowers the at least one probe into the second at least one well such that the at least one probe is submerged in the second fluid. The at least one probe may then dispense system fluid into the second at least one well. The at least one probe may then be raised above the second at least one well by the probe arm 103. The probe arm 103 may then move over the waste funnel 140 and continue dispensing system fluid. Alternatively, the at least one probe may dispense the system fluid while above thesecond at least one well. The gantry system 101 may then perform a rapid shaking, or back and forth, movement. The dipping and dispensing may be repeated any number of times, as needed to fully rinse the first fluid from the at least one probe. The at least one probe may be dipped a final time, to a depth less than previously performed, such that any remaining droplets are removed from the end of the at least one probe. During the dipping and dispensing, the second pump may supply a flow of second fluid to the second at least one well. The cycling of the second fluid may occur either / both when the at least one probe is in the second fluid and when the at least one probe is above the housing 110, 110a. Once the at least one probe has been rinsed, the probe arm raises and the gantry system moves the at least one probe out of the washstation.

[0062] One method for washing the at least one probe includes a first operation of priming a first at least one well and a second at least one well within a single housing using a first fluid, where the first at least one well is configured for cleaning and the second at least one well is configured for rinsing. Then a second operation of purging the second at least one well with a second fluid. Then a third operation of priming the second at least one well with the second fluid. Then a fourth operation of moving the at least one probe into the first at least one well. Then a fifth operation of aspirating the first fluid into the at least one probe. Then a sixth operation of rapidly moving the at least one probe above the first at least one well. Then a seventh operation of dipping and purging the at least one probe into the first at least one well. Then an eighth operation of selectively repeating the previous operations. Then a ninth operation of moving the at least one probe into the second at least one well. Then a tenth operation of cycling the second fluid through the second at least one well. Then an eleventh operation of dispensing system fluid from the at least one probe and into the second at least one well. Then a twelfth operation of dispensing system fluid above the second at least one well. Then a thirteenth operation of selectively repeating the previous operations. Then a fourteenth step of partially dipping the at least one probe into the second at least one well to remove any remaining droplets.

[0063] Another method, for washing an at least one probe includes a first operation of simultaneously supplying a first at least one well and a second at least one well within a single housing using a first pump system and a first fluid, where the first at least one well is configured for cleaning and the second at least one well is configured for rinsing. A second operation includes then displacing the first fluid in the second at least one well with a second fluid using a second pump. A third operation includes inserting the at leastone probe into the first fluid in the first at least one well and cleaning the at least one probe in the first at least one well. A fourth operation includes removing the at least one probe from the first fluid in the first at least one well. A fifth operation includes inserting the at least one probe into the second fluid in the second at least one well and rinsing the at least one probe in the second at least one well. In some examples, the operation of washing the at least one probe in the first at least one well further includes aspirating the first fluid into the at least one probe and then dispensing it out of the at least one probe. In some examples, the operation of washing the at least one probe in the first at least one well further includes rapidly moving the at least one probe above the first at least one well after aspirating the first fluid. In some examples, the operation of washing the at least one probe in the first at least one well further includes dipping and purging the at least one probe into the first at least one well after rapidly moving the at least one probe above the first at least one well. In some examples, the washing operations are selectively repeated. In some examples, the operation of rinsing the at least one probe in the second at least one well further includes flowing the second fluid over the external surface of the at least one probe while dispensing a system fluid through the at least one probe. In some examples, the operation of rinsing the at least one probe in the second at least one well further includes rapidly moving the at least one probe above the second at least one well after aspirating the second fluid. In some examples, the operation of rinsing the at least one probe in the second at least one well further includes dispensing system fluid from the at least one probe while the at least one probe is above the waste funnel 140. In some examples, the operation of rinsing the at least one probe in the second at least one well further includes dipping and purging the at least one probe into the second at least one well 132b after rapidly moving the at least one probe above the second at least one well 132b. In some examples, on or more of the rinsing operations are selectively repeated.

[0064] FIG. 21 depicts another method for washing at least one probe. Method 230, includes operations 232, 234, 236, and 238. Operation 232 includes simultaneously supplying a first at least one well 132a and a second at least one well 132b within a single housing 110. 1 10a with a first fluid, where the first at least one well 132a is configured for cleaning and the second at least one well 132b is configured for rinsing. Operation 234 includes displacing the first fluid in the second at least one well 132b with a second fluid. Operation 236 includes cleaning the at least one probe in the first at least one well 132a. Operation 238 includes rinsing the at least one probe in the second at least one well 132a. As seen in FIG. 22, in some examples, operation 236 further includes operation240, which includes aspirating the first fluid into the at least one probe and then dispensing it out of the at least one probe. In some examples, operation 236 further includes operation 242, which includes selectively repeating the cleaning operation. As seen in FIG. 23, in some examples, operation 238 further includes operation 244, which includes flowing the second fluid around the probe and through the housing 110, 110a, and dispensing system fluid out of the at least one probe. In some examples operation 238 further includes operation 246, which includes selectively repeating the rinsing operation.

[0065] A method for controlling fluids in a probe washstation includes simultaneously pumping a cleaning solution into both a first at least one well 132a and a second at least one well 132b at an inlet region 148 and displacing any fluids from both the first and second at least one well 132a, 132b into a waste pathway 156 at an outlet region 134, where the first at least one well 132a is configured for cleaning and the second at least one well 132b is configured for rinsing. Then pumping a rinse liquid into the second at least one well 132b and displacing the cleaning solution into the waste pathway 156. Then continuously cycling the rinse liquid through the second at least one well 132b while an at least one probe is being rinsed.

[0066] The various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the claims attached hereto. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize various modifications and changes that may be made without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, and without departing from the full scope of the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for washing at least one probe comprising: simultaneously supplying a first at least one well and a second at least one well within a unitary housing with a first fluid, wherein the first at least one well is configured for cleaning and the second at least one well is configured for rinsing; displacing the first fluid in the second at least one well with a second fluid; inserting the at least one probe into the first fluid in the first at least one well and cleaning the at least one probe in the first at least one well; and removing the at least one probe from the first fluid in the first at least one well; and inserting the at least one probe into the second fluid in the second at least one well and rinsing the at least one probe in the second at least one well.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein cleaning the at least one probe in the first at least one well further includes aspirating the first fluid into the at least one probe and then dispensing it out of the at least one probe.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the step of cleaning the at least one probe is selectively repeated.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein rinsing the at least one probe in the second at least one well further includes flowing the second fluid over the external surface of the at least one probe while dispensing a system fluid through the at least one probe.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the step of rinsing the at least one probe is selectively repeated.

6. A probe washstation assembly comprising: a unitary housing comprising: a first at least one well fluidically connected to a first channel extending through the first at least one well at an inlet region of the housing;a second at least one well fluidically connected to a second channel extending through the second at least one well at the inlet region of the housing; wherein the first and second channels are spaced apart from one another; a first inlet fluidically connected to the first channel; a second inlet fluidically connected to the second channel; and a waste pathway configured to direct waste fluid from the first and second at least one well to an outlet.

7. The probe washstation assembly of claim 6, wherein the waste pathway further includes a waste funnel configured to collect waste fluid from both the first and second at least one well at an outlet region of the housing.

8. The probe washstation assembly of claim 7, wherein the waste pathway further includes a first drain leg and a second drain leg, wherein the first drain leg extends between the waste funnel and the second drain leg, and the second drain leg extends between the first drain leg and the outlet.

9. The probe washstation assembly of claim 6, wherein the washstation assembly further comprises a first pump system and a second pump system, wherein the first pump system is configured to fill the first and / or the second at least one well with a first fluid, wherein the second pump system is configured to fill the second at least one well with a second fluid.

10. The probe washstation assembly of claim 9, wherein the first and second pump systems include a first inlet fitting and a second inlet fitting, respectively, wherein the first inlet fitting is configured to engage the first inlet and the second inlet fitting is configured to engage the second inlet.

11. The probe washstation assembly of claim 9, wherein the first fluid is a cleaning solution and the second fluid is water.

12. The probe washstation assembly of claim 9, wherein the first and second pump systems each include at least one check valve and a peristaltic pump.

13. The probe washstation assembly of claim 9, wherein the first pump system can fill the first and second at least one well simultaneously.

14. The probe washstation assembly of claim 6, wherein the washstation assembly further includes a waste collector with a drain fitting that engages the second drain leg.

15. The probe washstation assembly of claim 6, wherein the housing is made from a single piece of material.

16. The probe washstation assembly of claim 15, wherein the single piece of material is polypropylene.

17. The probe washstation assembly of claim 6, wherein the washstation further comprises a riser positioned at the bottom end of the housing and configured to provide clearance at the first and second inlets.

18. The probe washstation assembly of claim 17, wherein the housing further comprises a plurality of riser mounting locations at the bottom end.

19. A washstation assembly comprising: a unitary housing comprising: a first at least one well fluidically connected to a first channel extending through the first at least one well at an inlet region of the housing; a second at least one well fluidically connected to a second channel extending through the second at least one well at the inlet region of the housing; wherein the first and second channels are spaced apart from one another; a first inlet fluidically connected to the first channel; a second inlet fluidically connected to the second channel; anda waste pathway configured to direct waste fluid from the first and second at least one well to an outlet; a first pump system comprising: a first fluid reservoir; and a first pump for pumping a first fluid from the first fluid reservoir to the housing; the first pump system configured to deliver the first fluid to either or both the first and second inlets of the housing such that the first at least one well and the second at least one well can fill with the first fluid; a second pump system comprising: a second fluid reservoir; and a second pump for pumping a second fluid from the second fluid reservoir to the housing; the second pump system configured to deliver the second fluid to the second inlet of the housing such that the second at least one well can fill with the second fluid; and a waste container system including a waste container; the waste container system configured to direct waste fluid from the waste pathway to the waste container.

20. The washstation assembly of claim 19, wherein the waste pathway further includes a waste funnel configured to collect waste fluid from both the first and second at least one well at an outlet region of the housing.

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