Universal fixing part for the plunger rod of a syringe pump assembly

Abstract

A rod fixing assembly capable of attaching a rod of a syringe to a frame of a syringe pump, the rod fixing assembly including a first body associated with the frame, a complementary tilting surface fixed relative to the first body, a locking body coupled to the first body, and a rod interface housed within the first body. The locking body being capable of selectively affixing the rod of the syringe to the rod interface. The rod interface includes a tiling surface engaged with the complementary tiling surface. The tilting surface being capable of sliding relative to the complementary tilting surface while the rod interface is affixed to the rod in order to tilt the rod relative to the first body.

Description

UNIVERSAL FIXING PART FOR THE PLUNGER ROD OF A SYRINGE PUMP ASSEMBLYBACKGROUND

[0001] Syringe pumps are configured to actuate the rod and / or barrel of a syringe relative to each other in order to allow the barrel of the syringe to take in fluid or discharge fluid via one or more ports in fluid communication with the barrel. Syringe pumps are used in a variety of technological areas for a variety of reasons. For example, clinical analyzers, such as chemistry analyzers, can use syringe pumps in order to operate one or more pipettes to transfer suitable amounts of liquids, such as biological samples, reagents, etc., during an assay performed by the clinical analyzer. Clinical analyzers include suitable components (e.g., electronics and motors) in order to utilize syringe pumps to operate pipette(s) for accurate and precise pipetting.

[0002] Typically, a syringe includes a barrel housing a suitable fluid, a rod configured to actuate within the barrel to control the amount of fluid housed within the barrel, and at least one seal interposed between suitable portions of the barrel and the rod. In some instances, components of a syringe suitably attached to a syringe pump may need to be replaced. For example, seal(s) that are interposed between suitable portions of the rod and barrel of a syringe may be worn over time, leading to eventual failure of a seal. Tn such instances, an entire syringe, or individual components, may need to be replaced in an efficient manner. Therefore, syringe pumps may be configured to selectively receive a syringe in order to accommodate use of the syringe pump with multiple syringes over the life the syringe pump.

[0003] While various kinds of coupling components used to selectively attach a syringe with a syringe pump have been made and used, it is believed that no one prior to the inventor(s) has made or used the invention described in the appended claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] While the specification concludes with claims which particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed the present invention will be better understood from the following description of certain examples taken in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify the same elements and in which:

[0005] FIG. 1 depicts a cross-sectional view of an illustrative syringe pump assembly operatively attached to a syringe in fluid communication with a pipette of a clinical analyzer;

[0006] FIG. 2 depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view the syringe of FIG. 1 while attached to the syringe pump assembly of FIG. 1, showing a seal of the syringe interposed between a barrel and a rod of the syringe;

[0007] FIG. 3 depicts an exploded perspective view of a rod fixing assembly that may be readily incorporated into the syringe pump assembly of FIG. 1;

[0008] FIG. 4 depicts an exploded perspective view tiltable rod interface and a base of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 3;

[0009] FIG. 5 depicts a perspective view of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 3, with sections of the base of FIG. 4 in phantom to show the tiltable rod interface;

[0010] FIG. 6 depicts a sectional view of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 3, taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5;

[0011] FIG. 7A depicts a cross-sectional view of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 3 and a rod of the syringe of FIG. 1, taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 5, with the rod detached from the rod fixing assembly but aligned for coupling;

[0012] FIG. 7B depicts a cross-sectional view of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 3 and the rod of FIG. 7A, taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 5, with the rod initially inserted into the rod fixing assembly, yet still detached from each other;

[0013] FIG. 7C depicts a cross-sectional view of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 3 and the rod of FIG. 7A, taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 5, with the rod inserted and attached to the rod fixing assembly, with the rod and tiltable rod interface in a first angular position relative to the base of FIG. 4;

[0014] FIG. 7D depicts a cross-sectional view of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 3 and the rod of FIG. 7A, taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 5, with the rod inserted and attached tothe rod fixing assembly, with the rod and tiltable rod interface in a tilted angular position relative to the base of FIG. 4;

[0015] FIG. 8 depicts a cross-sectional view of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 3 and the rod of FIG. 7A, taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 5, with the rod inserted and attached to the rod fixing assembly, with the rod and tiltable rod interface in a second tilted angular position relative to the base of FIG. 4;

[0016] FIG. 9A depicts a cross-sectional view of an alternative syringe pump assembly having the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 3, with the syringe pump assembly operatively coupled with the syringe of FIG. 1 in a first longitudinal position;

[0017] FIG. 9B depicts a cross-sectional view of the syringe pump assembly of FIG. 9A, with the syringe pump assembly operatively coupled with the syringe of FIG. 1 in a second longitudinal position;

[0018] FIG. 10 depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view the syringe of FIG. 1 while attached to the syringe pump assembly of FIG. 9A, showing the seal of the syringe interposed between the barrel and the rod of the syringe;

[0019] FIG. 11A depicts a perspective view of the of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 3 and the syringe of FIG. 1, with the syringe detached from the rod fixing assembly but aligned for coupling;

[0020] FIG. 11B depicts a perspective view of the of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 3 and the syringe of FIG. 1, with the syringe operatively attached with the rod fixing assembly;

[0021] FIG. 12 depicts an exploded perspective view of a rod fixing assembly that may be readily incorporated into the syringe pump assembly of FIG. 1;

[0022] FIG. 13 depicts a perspective view of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 12, with select portions in phantom to show a tiltable rod interface;

[0023] FIG. 14A depicts a cross-sectional view of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 12 and the rod of FIG. 7A, taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 13, with the rod inserted and attached to the rod fixing assembly, with the rod and tiltable rod interface in a first tilted angular position relative to a base; and

[0024] FIG. 14B depicts a cross-sectional view of the rod fixing assembly of FIG. 12 and the rod of FIG. 7A, taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 13, with the rod inserted and attached to the rod fixing assembly, with the rod and tiltable rod interface in a second tilted angular position relative to a base.

[0025] The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it is contemplated that various embodiments of the invention may be carried out in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present invention, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention; it being understood, however, that this invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The following description of certain examples of the invention should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is by way of illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

[0027] It will be appreciated that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, versions, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, versions, examples, etc. that are described herein. The following- described teachings, expressions, versions, examples, etc. should therefore not be viewed in isolation relative to each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein may be combined will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0028] I. Illustrative Syringe and Syringe Pump Assembly

[0029] As mentioned above, syringe pumps are used to actuate at least one component(s) of a syringe in order to allow the barrel of a syringe to communicate fluid via one or more ports in fluid communication with the barrel. FIG. 1 shows an illustrative syringe pump assembly (10) operatively attached to a syringe (30) in fluid communication with an illustrative pipette (2) via a fluid line (48).

[0030] Syringe (30) includes a rod (32), a barrel (40), and a seal (50) fixed to barrel (40). Barrel (40) defines a chamber (42) that houses a suitable fluid, such as water. A removable cap (44) is located at an open end (46) of barrel (40). Seal (50) is interposed between open end (46) of barrel (40) and removable cap (44) such that seal (50) is fixed relative to barrel (40). Seal (50) may be replaceable from barrel (40) such that a technician may detach removable cap (44) from open end (46) of barrel (40) to remove a worn seal (50), and install a new seal (50) using techniques that would be apparent to one skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. While seal (50) is fixed relative to barrel (40) in the current example, in some instances, seal (50) may be fixed to an outer surface of rod (32) such that seal (50) actuates with rod (32) within chamber (42). Removable cap (44) may be attached to open end (46) of barrel (40) via threading, a press-fitting, or any other suitable coupling means as would be apparent to one skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0031] Rod (32) extends through cap (44) and open end (46) of barrel (40). The bottom portion of rod (32) includes a flange (34) configured to selectively couple to a portion of syringe pump assembly (10). The top portion of rod (32) is slidably disposed within chamber (42) of barrel (40). Seal (50) is configured to allow rod (32) to actuate within chamber (42) while inhibiting fluid housed within chamber (42) from escaping via open end (46) and removable cap (44). Therefore, rod (32) may actuate within chamber (42) in order to drive fluid within or out of chamber (42) via fluid line (48).

[0032] As mentioned above, pipette (2) is in fluid communication with chamber (42) of barrel (40) via fluid line (48). Actuation of rod (32) to drive fluid into or out of chamber (42) drives fluid toward or away from pipette (2), respectively. Therefore, in the current example, actuation of rod (32) drives pipette (2) to aspirate and deliver suitable liquids (such as biological samples, reagents, etc.). While in the current example, syringe (30) isused to operate a pipette (2), it should be understood that syringe (30) and syringe pump assembly (10) may be used in conjunction with any other suitable components as would be apparent to one skilled in the art in view of the teaching herein.

[0033] Syringe pump assembly (10) includes a base frame (12), an actuator (14), a first syringe attachment feature in the form of a barrel fixing body (16), and second syringe attachment feature in the form of a rod fixing body (20). Base frame (12) acts as a mechanical frame for actuator (14), barrel fixing body (16), rod fixing assembly (20), and syringe (30). Base frame (12) is configured to attach syringe pump assembly (10) to other suitable components as would be apparent to one skilled in the ail in view of the teachings herein. For example, base frame (12) may be attached to frame components of a clinical chemistry analyzer. In some instances, base frame (12) is self-standing. Therefore, base frame (12) may have any suitable structure(s) as would be apparent to one skilled in the art.

[0034] Barrel fixing body (16) is fixed to, and extends outwardly from, base frame (12). Barrell fixing body (16) is configured to selectively attach to barrel (40) of syringe (30), thereby fixing barrel (40) relative to base frame (12). Barrel fixing body (16) is configured to receive barrel (40) in order to consistently position barrel (40) relative to base frame (12) once selectively attached. Therefore, if barrel (40) needs to be temporarily detached from barrel 1'ixing body (16) for maintenance purposes, the same barrel (40) may be reattached to barrel fixing body (16) at substantially the same location as previously located relative to base frame (12). Alternatively, once a first barrel (40) is ready to be removed, a technician may remove the first barrel (40) and attach a second, new barrel (40) to barrel fixing body (16) at substantially the same location as the previous barrel (40) relative to base frame (12). In some instances, barrel (40) and barrel fixing body (16) may have complementary locating features configured to consistently position barrel (40) relative to base frame (12) during the attachment procedure.

[0035] It should be understood that engagement between barrel fixing body (16) and barrel (40) determines the direction at which barrel (40) extends away from barrel fixing body (16). Therefore, the orientation which barrel fixing body (16) extends relative to base frame (12) determines the directional axis (BA) barrel (40) extends relative to baseframe (12) when syringe (30) is suitably attached.

[0036] Rod fixing assembly (20) is slidably attached to base frame (12). Rod fixing assembly (20) includes a rod receiving body (22) and a set screw (26) thready attached to a bottom portion of rod receiving body (22). Together, rod receiving body (22) and set screw (26) are configured to selectively attach rod (32) of syringe (30) to rod fixing assembly (20). Rod receiving body (22) includes a rod mating surface (24). Rod receiving body (22) defines a rod receiving channel (28) dimensioned to selectively receive rod (32) of syringe (30) such that flange (34) of rod (32) suitably engages rod mating surface (24) via a mating face (36). Set screw (26) is configured to selectively affix rod (32) to rod receiving body (22).

[0037] Once rod (32) is suitably placed within rod receiving channel (28), a technician may rotate set screw (26) to translate set screw (26) upwards to abut against flange (34) of rod (32) and drive mating surface (24) and mating face (36) together, thereby affixing rod (32) to rod receiving body (22). Therefore, set screw (26) may be used to drive mating face (36) of flange (34) against mating surface (24) of rod receiving body (22) such that actuation of rod fixing assembly (20) relative to base frame (12) drives actuation of rod (32) relative to barrel (40). It should be understood that engagement between mating face (36) of flange (34) and mating surface (24) of rod receiving body (22) determines the direction at which rod (32) extends away from rod receiving body (22). In other words, the plane at which mating surface (24) extends along relative to base frame (12) determines the directional axis (RA) rod (32) extends relative to base frame (12).

[0038] Rod fixing assembly (20) is configured to slide along a longitudinal axis (LA) of base frame (12). Actuator (14) is operatively attached to rod fixing assembly (20). Actuator (14) is configured to drive rod fixing assembly (20) along a predetermined path defined by base frame (12). When rod (32) of syringe (30) is suitably coupled to rod fixing assembly (20), actuator (14) is configured to drive translation of rod (32) relative to barrel (40). Therefore, actuator (14) is configured to drive translation of rod (32) to drive fluid into or out of chamber (42) of barrel (40).

[0039] Additionally, actuator (14) may receive instructions from suitable electroniccomponents, such as a processing unit (e.g., processor, memory, and / or storage) of a clinical analyzer. Therefore, the processing unit of a clinical analyzer may instruct actuator (14) to utilize syringe pump assembly (10) and syringe (30) to suitably control pipette (2) in accordance with the description herein.

[0040] Actuator (14) may have any suitable components as would be apparent to one skilled in the ait in view of the teachings herein. For example, actuator (14) may include a motor mounted to base frame (12), a threaded shaft rotatably coupled to the motor, and a translating nut rotationally constrained relative to base frame (12) and operatively engaged with the threaded shaft. Such a motor may drive rotation of the threaded shaft, which in turn may drive translation of the translating nut relative to base frame (12). Translating nut may be attached to rod fixing assembly (20) such that rod (32) and rod fixing assembly (20) are driven along the longitudinal axis (LA) of base frame (12) in response to actuation of the translating nut.

[0041] II. Illustrative Rod Fixing Assembly having Tiltable Rod Interface

[0042] Syringe attachment features (i.e., barrel fixing body (16) and rod fixing assembly (20)) are configured to consistently engage respective portions of syringe (30) such that barrel (40) and rod (32) each extend along a consistent directional axis (BA, RA) relative to fixing body (16) and fixing assembly (20), respectively. Since base frame (12) acts as a mechanical ground and intermediary between barrel fixing body (16) and rod fixing assembly (20), the orientation of barrel fixing body (16) and rod fixing assembly (20) relative to base frame (12) dictates the spatial relationship between the directional axes (RA, BA) of rod (32) and barrel (40), respectively, when syringe (30) is operatively attached to syringe pump assembly (10).

[0043] When assembled, it is desirable for the central directional axis (BA) of the barrel (40) to be coaxial with the central directional axis (RA) of rod (32), as this increases the lifespan of seal (50) see FIG. 10). FIG. 2 shows an exaggerated view when rod (32) and barrel (40) are misaligned such that central directional axes (RA, BA) are not coaxial with each other, and instead form an inclination angle (I). When the central directional axis (RA) of rod (32) is not coaxial with the central directional axis (BA) of barrel (40), rod (32) imparts a compressive lateral force on one side of seal (50), such that theopposite side of seal (50) experiences an expansive lateral force. The compressive force imparted on the first lateral side of seal (50) drives annular scaling lips (52, 54) together; while the portion of annular sealing lips (52, 54) located on the opposite side are urged away from each other. This may reduce the effective lifetime of a seal (50) and / or other components of syringe (30), leading to an undesirable leakage of fluid (F) housed within chamber (42) of barrel (40).

[0044] Therefore, during assembly of syringe pump assembly (10), it is desirable to consistently position and orient barrel fixing body (16) and rod fixing assembly (20) relative to base frame (12), and therefore each other, such that when syringe (30) is operatively attached to syringe pump assembly (10), central directional axes (BA, RA) are coaxial. However, due to undesirable tolerance stacks when manufacturing and assembling both syringe pump assembly (10) and syringe (30), the directional axes (RA, BA) of rod (32) and barrel (40) may still form an undesirable inclination angle (I) with each other when syringe (30) is operatively attached to such syringe engagement features of syringe pump assembly (10). Therefore, it may be desirable to have at least one syringe engagement feature configured to adjust the tilt angle of a respective syringe component (e.g., rod (32) or barrel (40)) relative to base frame (12) after installment of syringe (30) in order to coaxially algin the directional axes (RA, BA). As one example, it may be desirable to have rod fixing assembly that is configured to allow rod (32) to adjust its tilt angle relative to base frame (12) after installment of rod (30) in order to coaxially align the directional axes (RA, BA). As another example, it may be desirable to have a barrel fixing assembly that is configured to allow barrel (40) to adjust its tile angle relative to base frame (12) after installment of barrel (40) in order to coaxially align the direction axes (RA, BA).

[0045] FIGS. 3-8 show an illustrative syringe attachment feature in the form of rod fixing assembly (120) that may be readily incorporated into syringe pump assembly (10) in replacement of rod fixing assembly (20) described above; while FIGS. 9A-9B show such a modified syringe pump assembly (10’). While the current illustrative example contemplates use of syringe attachment feature (110) to operatively attach rod (32) to syringe pump assembly (10), it should be understood that such an illustrative syringe attachment feature (110) may be used in replacement of barrel fixing body (16) to therebyoperatively attach barrel (40) to syringe pump assembly (10).

[0046] Rod fixing assembly (120) includes an actuator interface body (122), a tiltable rod interface (130), and a base (140) configured to selectively attach to actuator interface body (122) via threaded bolts (110). As will also be described in greater detail below, tiltable rod interface (130) is configured selectively fix to rod (32) via set screw (26) to thereby allow rod (32) to adjust its tilt angle relative to actuator interface body (122). Such tilting of rod (32) may allow rod (32) to coaxially align with barrel (40) when syringe (30) is operatively attached to syringe pump assembly (10).

[0047] Similar to rod receiving body (22) described above, actuator interface body (122) is configured to operatively attach with actuator (14) such that actuator (14) may drive rod fixing assembly (120) along a predetermined path defined by base frame (12). Therefore, when rod (32) is suitably coupled to rod fixing assembly (120) in accordance with the description herein, actuator (14) is configured to drive translation of rod (32) to urge fluid into or out of chamber (42) of barrel (40). In instances where fixing assembly (120) is modified to operatively attach to barrel (40), body (122) may be fixedly attached to base frame (12).

[0048] Additionally, actuator interface body (122) is threadably coupled with set screw (26) such that rotation of set screw (26) relative to actuator interface body (122) vertically translates set screw (26) relative to actuator interface body (122). Therefore, set screw (26) may be utilized to suitably engage rod (32) to thereby attach rod (32) with tiltable rod interface (130) in accordance with the description herein. While set screw (26) is used to selectively lock rod (32) to body (122), any other suitably structures may be used as would be apparent to one skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0049] Actuator interface body (122) also defines an interface pocket (124), a rod receiving channel (126), and a plurality of threaded openings (128). Threaded openings (128) are each dimensioned to receive a respective threaded bolt (110). Threaded bolts (110) are configured to fixedly couple base (140) with actuator interface body (122).

[0050] Interface pocket (124) is dimensioned to house tiltable rod interface (130) such that rod interface (130) may tilt relative to actuator interface body (122) within the confines on interface pocket (124) in accordance with the description herein. When base(140) and actuator interface body (122) are fixedly coupled, tiltable rod interface (130) is cooperative housed within interface pockets (124, 142) of actuator interface body (122) and base (140), respectively. Rod receiving channel (126) is in communication with interface pocket (124). Rod receiving channel (126) is dimensioned to allow rod (32) to be selectively inserted into engagement with tiltable rod interface (130) housed within interface pocket (124).

[0051] Base (140) includes a complementary semi-annular arched tilting surface (144) that partially defines interface pocket (142) dimensioned to cooperatively house tiltable rod interface (130). Complementary semi-annular arched tilting surface (144) is configured to slidingly engage a tilting surface (134) of rod interface (130) to thereby define a path(s) at which rod interface (130) may tilt relative to the rest of rod fixing assembly (120). Therefore, the geometry of complementary arched tilting surface (144) guides rod interface (130) while tilting within interface pockets (124, 142).

[0052] Base (140) also defines a rod receiving channel (146) is in communication with interface pocket (142). Rod receiving channel (146) is dimensioned to allow rod (32) to be selectively inserted into engagement with tiltable rod interface (130) housed within interface pockets (124, 142), as well as allow rod (32) to extend upwardly from base (140). Base (140) also defines through holes (148) dimensioned to receive threaded bolts (1 10) in order to suitably couple base (140) with actuator interface body (122).

[0053] Tiltable rod interface (130) includes a rod mating surface (132) and a semiannular arched tilting surface (134). Additionally, the semi-annular nature of tiltable rod interface (130) defines a rod receiving channel (136) dimensioned to allow rod (32) to be selectively inserted into the confines of channel (136) to thereby allow flange (34) of rod (32) to suitably engage rod mating surface (132). With the assistance of set screw (26), rod mating surface (132) is dimensioned to abut against mating face (36) of rod (32) see FIG. 7C) in order to attach rod (32) to tiltable rod interface (130).

[0054] As mentioned above, tiltable rod interface (130) is configured to tilt within the confines of interface pockets (124, 142) of actuator interface body (122) and base (140). Semi-annular arched tilting surface (134) is dimensioned to slidably engage a complementary semi-annular arched tilting surface (144) of base (140) to promote suchtilting. Engagement between tilting surfaces (134, 1 4) allows titling rod interface (130) and rod (32) to tilt and / or pivot within multiple planes relative to the rest of rod fixing assembly (120).

[0055] Tilting surfaces (134, 144) allow rod interface (130) and rod (32) to pivot within a first plane that extends toward and away from base frame (12) see FIG. 7D). Additionally, tilting surfaces (134, 144) allow rod interface (130) and rod (30) to pivot within a second plane that is substantially perpendicular with the first plane and laterally offset from base frame (12). In other words, when viewed from the perspective shown in FIGS. 9A-9B, rod interface (130) and rod (32) may pivot relative to the rest of rod fixing assembly (120) in a direction toward an away from base frame (12), as well as a direction into and out of the page. Providing such pivotal motion of rod (32) after coupling with rod fixing assembly (120) allows for rod (32) to coaxially align with barrel (40) after rod (32) is attached to tiltable rod interface (130) and after syringe (30) is operatively coupled to syringe pump assembly (10’).

[0056] In some instances, tilting surface (134, 144) are formed of materials having a low coefficient of friction to thereby promote pivoting of rod interface (130) and rod (32) relative to the rest of rod 1'ixing assembly (120) in order to coaxially align with barrel (40) in accordance with the description herein. In some instances, tilting surface (134, 144) may include suitable coatings that reduce the coefficient of friction between surface (134, 144), thereby allowing rod (32) to more easily pivot with rod interface (130).

[0057] As mentioned above, actuator interface body (122), tiltable rod interface (130), and base (140) each define a rod receiving channel (126, 136, 146) dimensioned to receive rod (32) in order to suitably attach rod (32) with rod fixing assembly (120) in accordance with the description herein. Therefore, rod receiving channels (126, 136, 146) are configured to cooperatively receive rod (32) in order to attach rod (32) with rod fixing assembly (120). As also mentioned above, tiltable rod interface (130) is configured to pivot and / or tilt within the confines of interface pockets (124, 142) of actuator interface body (122) and base (140). If rod interface (130) pivots relative to actuator interface body (122) and base (140) such that rod receiving channel (136) is not suitably aligned with the other rod receiving channels (126, 146), such misalignment mayinhibit rod (32) from being inserted into suitable engagement with tilting rod interface (130). Therefore, it may be desirable to add alignment features to rod interface (130) and other components of rod fixing assembly (120) in order to ensure suitable alignment between rod receiving channels (126, 136, 146).

[0058] Turning to FIG. 6, actuator interface body (122) of the current example includes a pair of channel alignment surfaces (125) that define a portion of interface pocket (124). Channel alignment surfaces (125) of actuator interface body (122) are directly adjacent to a respective channel alignment surface (138) of rod interface (130). Channel alignment surfaces (125, 138) arc configured to engage each other in order to ensure rod receiver channels (126, 136, 146) remain suitably aligned in order to receive rod (30). In particular, engagement between respective channel alignment surface (125, 138) inhibits rod interface (130) from over rotating about the long axis (LAI) of rod fixing assembly (120) thereby inhibiting rod receiving channel (136) from misaligning with other rod receiving channels (126, 136). It should be understood that alignment surfaces (125, 138) still allow rod interface (130) to tilt and / or pivot relative to the rest of rod fixing assembly (120) in the two planes mentioned above.

[0059] FIGS. 7A-8 show an illustrative coupling of rod (32) to rod fixing assembly (120), as well as illustrative tilting and / or pivoting of rod (32) in order to coaxially align with barrel (40) suitably attached to barrel fixing body (16). It should be understood that rod fixing assembly (120) may be suitably attached base frame (12), as shown in FIGS. 9A-9B, while coupling with rod (32). As mentioned above, in some instances, rod (32) is removed from a barrel (40) in order to just replace rod (32), seal (50), and / or other suitable components. In other instances, syringe (30), in its entirety, is removed in order to be replaced by a new syringe (30), as illustrated in FIGS. 11A-11B. Therefore, while rod (32) is shown in isolation being attached in FIG. 7A-8, it should be understood that rod (32) may also be coupled with other suitable components during this illustrative coupling. Additionally, as also mentioned above, while the syringe attachment feature (120) is shown used to couple rod (32) of syringe (30), it should be readily understood that syringe attachment feature (120) may alternatively and / or additionally be used to attach barrel (40) of syringe (30) to base frame (12). In such instances, syringe attachment feature (120) may or may not be suitably coupled to actuator (14).

[0060] First, as shown in FIG. 7A, rod fixing assembly (120) is prepared to initially receive rod (30). Therefore, set screw (26) is in a lowered position on actuator interface body (122) while rod (32) is aligned with rod receiving channels (126, 136, 146). Next, as shown in FIG. 7B, rod (32) is inserted within rod receiving channels (126, 136, 146) such that mating face (36) of rod (32) is suitably aligned with rod mating surface (132) of tiltable rod interface (130). With rod (32) suitably inserted into rod receiving channels (126, 136, 146), as shown in FIG. 7C, set screw (26) is actuated upwards into engagement with flange (34) of rod (32), thereby driving flange (34) against rod mating surface (132) and affixing rod (32) to rod interface (130). Next, once rod (32) is suitably attached to the rest of syringe (30), rod (32) and rod interface (130) may tilt relative to the rest of rod fixing assembly (120), as shown in FIGS. 7D-8, in accordance with the description herein, in order to coaxially align rod (32) with barrel (40) and seal (50). As shown in FIG. 10, when rod (32) is coaxially aligned with barrel (40) and seal (50), lips (52, 54) of seal (50) are neither overly compressed or expanded.

[0061] In some instances, engagement between rod (32) and seal (50) may drive tilting of rod (32) and rod interface (130) in order to coaxially align rod (32) with barrel (40) and seal (50). Additionally and / or alternatively, a technician may manually pivot rod (32) into coaxial alignment with barrel (40) and seal (50).

[0062] FIGS. 9A-9B show illustrative actuation of rod (32) relative to barrel (40) utilizing syringe pump assembly (10’) having rod fixing assembly (120). As shown between FIGS. 9A-9B, actuator (14) drives rod fixing assembly (120) upward along the path defined by base frame (12) to thereby move rod (32) further within chamber (42) of barrel (40), thereby urging fluid out of chamber (42) toward pipette (2). It should be understood that actuator (14) may also move rod fixing assembly (120) from the position shown in FIG. 9B toward the position shown in FIG 9A in order to draw fluid into chamber (42) away from pipette (2).

[0063] As rod fixing assembly (120) actuates along the path defined by base frame (12), tilting rod interface (130) and rod (30) may pivot and / or tilt relative to the rest of rod fixing assembly (120) in response to engagement between rod (30) and seal (50) (or any other suitable components of syringe (30)). In particular, rod (30) may tilt duringactuation of rod fixing assembly (120) relative to base form (12), thereby allowing rod (30) to maintain substantial coaxial alignment with barrel (40) and seal (50). Therefore, it should be understood that during illustrative actuation of rod (30), rod fixing assembly (120) may actively adjust the alignment of rod (30) relative to barrel (40).

[0064] As mentioned above, rod fixing assembly (120) is configured to pivot and / or tilt rod (30) in at least two planes. However, in some instances, it may be sufficient and / or desirable to limit pivoting and / or tilting of rod (30) to a single plane. FIGS. 12-14B show an illustrative syringe attachment feature in the form of rod fix assembly (220) that may be readily incorporated into syringe pump assembly (10, 10’) in replacement of rod fixing assembly (20, 120) described above. While the current illustrative example contemplates use of syringe attachment feature (210) to operatively attach rod (32) to syringe pump assembly (10), it should be understood that such an illustrative syringe attachment feature (210) may be used in replacement of barrel fixing body (16) to thereby operatively attach barrel (40) to syringe pump assembly (10).

[0065] Rod fixing assembly (220) includes an actuator interface body (222), a tilting rod interface (230), and a locking bar (240). Similar to titling rod interface (130) described above, tilting rod interface (230) is configured to selectively fix to rod (32) via set screw (26) to thereby allow rod (32) to adjust its tilt angle relative to actuator interface body (222). However, titling rod interface (230) in the current example is configured to limit tilting / pivoting of rod (32) to a single plane. Such tilting of rod (32) may allow rod (32) to coaxially align with barrel (40) when syringe (30) is operatively attached to syringe pump assembly (10).

[0066] Actuator interface body (222) is configured to operatively attach with actuator (14) such that actuator (14) may drive rod fixing assembly (120) along a predetermined path defined by base frame (12). Therefore, when rod (32) is suitably coupled to rod fixing assembly (220) in accordance with the description herein, actuator (14) is configured to drive translation of rod (32) to urge fluid into or out of chamber (42) of barrel (40). In instances where fixing assembly (220) is modified to operatively attach to barrel (40), body (222) may be fixedly attached to base frame (12).

[0067] Additionally, actuator interface body (222) is threadedly coupled with set screw(26) such that rotation of set screw (26) relative to actuator interface body (222) vertically translates set screw (26) relative to actuator interface body (222). Therefore, set screw (26) may be utilized to suitably engage rod (32) to thereby attach rod (32) with tiltable rod interface (230) in accordance with the description herein.

[0068] Actuator interface (222) in the current example include a complementary arched tilting surface (244) that defines an interface pocket (224). Further, actuator interface (222) defines a rod receiving channel (226) and threaded openings (228). Interface pocket (224) rotatably houses titling rod interface (230) while complementary arched surface (244) is configured to engage arched tilting surface (234) of tilting rod interface (230). Arched tilting surfaces (234, 244) may be substantially similar to tilting surfaces (134, 144) described above, with differences elaborated herein. However, the geometry of arched surface (234, 244) limits tilting / pivoting of rod (32) to a single plane.

[0069] Rod receiving channel (226) is dimensioned to allow rod (32) to be selectively inserted into engagement with tiltable rod interface (230) housed within interface pocket (224). Threaded openings (228) are each dimensioned to receive a respective threaded bolt (210). Threaded bolts (210) are configured to fixedly couple locking bar (240) with actuator coupling body (222). Locking bar (240) defines through holes (248) dimensioned to receive a respective threaded bolt (210), thereby allowing locking bar (240) to affix to actuator interface (222). As shown between FIGS. 12-13, locking bar (240) is used to inhibit tilting rod interface (230) from dissociation with interface pocket (224) of actuator interface (222).

[0070] Tiltable rod interface (230) includes a rod mating surface (232) and an arched tilting surface (234). Additionally, tiltable rod interface (230) defines a rod receiving channel (236) dimensioned to allow rod (32) to be selectively inserted into the confines of channel (236) to thereby allow flange (34) of rod (32) to suitably engage rod mating surface (232). With the assistance of set screw (26), rod mating surface (232) is dimensioned to abut against mating face (36) of rod (32) (see FIGS. 14A-14B) in order to attach rod (32) to tiltable rod interface (230).

[0071] Tiltable rod interface (230) is configured to tilt within the confines of interface pocket (224) of actuator interface body (222). Arched tilting surface (234) is dimensionedto slidably engage a complementary arched tilting surface (244) of actuator base (222) to promote such tilting. Engagement between tilting surfaces (234, 244) allows titling rod interface (230) and rod (32) to pivot within a single plane, as shown between FIGS. 14A- 14B. Therefore, once rod (32) is suitably attached to rod fixing assembly (220), rod (32) and rod interface (230) may tilt / pivot in order to promote coaxial alignment of rod (32) with barrel (40) and seal (50) in accordance with the description herein. Therefore, arched surface (244) is configured to slidingly engage tilting surface (234) of rod interface (230) to thereby define a path at which rod interface (230) may tilt relative to the rest of rod fixing assembly (220). The geometry of complementary arched tilting surface (244) guides rod interface (230) while tilting within interface pocket (224).

[0072] However, rather than tilting / pivoting in multiple planes, rod (32) and rod interface (230) arc limited to tilting in a single plane defined by the engagement of arched surfaces (234, 244). The plane in which rod (32) and rod interface (230) tilt may have any suitable orientation relative to base frame (12) as would be apparent to one skilled in the art in view of the teaching herein. For example, rod interface (230) and rod (32) may tilt toward and away from base frame (12) (similar to rod (32) tilting toward and away from base frame (12) from vantage point shown in FIGS. 9A-9B), in a direction that is laterally offset, yet parallel from base frame (12) (similar to rod (32) tilting into and out of the page of FIGS. 9A-9B), or any other suitable plane to promote coaxial alignment of rod (32), barrel (40), and seal (50).

[0073] Tilting surfaces (234, 244) may also be formed of suitable material to minimalize the coefficient of friction between the two surfaces, thereby promoting easy tilting of rod (32) and rod interface (230) in accordance with the description herein. In some instances, arched tilting surfaces (234, 244) may include suitable coatings that reduce the coefficient of friction between surfaces (234, 244), thereby allowing rod (32) to more easily pivot with rod interface (230).

[0074] III. Illustrative Combinations

[0075] The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to restrict the coverage of any claims that may be presented atany time in this application or in subsequent filings of this application. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples arc being provided for nothing more than merely illustrative purposes. It is contemplated that the various teachings herein may be arranged and applied in numerous other ways. It is also contemplated that some variations may omit certain features referred to in the below examples. Therefore, none of the aspects or features referred to below should be deemed critical unless otherwise explicitly indicated as such at a later date by the inventors or by a successor in interest to the inventors. If any claims are presented in this application or in subsequent filings related to this application that include additional features beyond those referred to below, those additional features shall not be presumed to have been added for any reason relating to patentability.

[0076] Example 1

[0077] An apparatus, comprising: (a) a frame; (b) an actuator associated with the frame; (c) a first syringe attachment coupled to the frame, wherein the first syringe attachment body is configured to selectively affix to a first component of a syringe; (d) a second syringe attachment, wherein the actuator is configured to generate movement between the first syringe attachment and the second syringe attachment , wherein the second string attachment comprises: (i) a first body associated with the frame, (ii) a complementary tilting surface, (iii) a locking body coupled with the first body, and (iv) a syringe interface housed within the first body, wherein the locking body is configured to selectively affix a second component of the syringe to the syringe interface, wherein the syringe interface comprises a tilting surface engaged with the complementary tilting surface, wherein the tilting surface is configured to slide relative to the complementary tilting surface while the syringe interface is affixed to the second component of the syringe in order to tilt the second component of the syringe relative to the first component of the syringe within a first plane.

[0078] Example 2

[0079] The apparatus of Example 1, wherein the tilting surface is configured to slide relative to the complementary tilting surface while the syringe interface is affixed to the second component of the syringe in order to tilt the second component of the syringerelative to the first component of the syringe within a second plane.

[0080] Example 3

[0081] The apparatus of Example 2, wherein the first plane is perpendicular to the second plane.

[0082] Example 4

[0083] The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1 through 3, wherein the second syringe attachment comprises a base, wherein the complementary tilting surface is associated with the base.

[0084] Example 5

[0085] The apparatus of Example 4, wherein the first body defines a first receiving channel, wherein the syringe interface defines a second receiving channel, wherein the base defines a third receiving channel, wherein the first, second, and third receiving channels are dimensioned to cooperatively receive the second component of the syringe.

[0086] Example 6

[0087] The apparatus of Example 5, wherein the syringe interface comprises at least one alignment surface configured to inhibit the second receiving channel from rotating out of alignment relative to the first and third receiving channels.

[0088] Example 7

[0089] The apparatus of Example 6, wherein the first body comprises at least one complementary alignment surface configured to engage the at least one alignment surface of the syringe interface to inhibit the second receiving channel from rotating out of alignment relative to the first and third receiving channels.

[0090] Example 8

[0091] The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 4 through 7, wherein the first body of the second syringe attachment defines a first interface pocket, wherein the base of the second syringe attachment defines a second interface pocket, wherein the first interface pocket and the second interface pocket house the syringe interface.

[0092] Example 9

[0093] The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1 through 8, wherein the complementary tilting surface comprises a first semi-annular arched surface, wherein the tilting surface of the syringe interface comprises a second semi-annular arched surface..

[0094] Example 10

[0095] The apparatus of Examples 1 through 8, wherein the complementary tilting surface comprises an arched surface, wherein the tilting surface of the syringe interface comprise a second arched surface.

[0096] Example 11

[0097] The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1 through 10, wherein the first component of the syringe comprises a barrel, wherein the second component of the syringe comprises a rod.

[0098] Example 12

[0099] The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1 through 10, wherein the first component of the syringe comprises a rod, wherein the second component of the syringe comprises a barrel.

[0100] Example 13

[0101] The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1 through 12, wherein the actuator is configured to drive actuation of the second syringe attachment relative to the frame.

[0102] Example 14

[0103] The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1 through 13, wherein the first syringe attachment is fixedly attached to the frame.

[0104] Example 15

[0105] The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1 through 14, wherein the first body is attached to the actuator.

[0106] Example 16

[0107] The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1 through 15, wherein the locking body comprises a set screw.

[0108] Example 17

[0109] A rod fixing assembly configured to attach to a rod of a syringe to a frame of a syringe pump, the rod fixing assembly comprising: (a) a first body associated with the frame; (b) a complementary tilting surface fixed relative to the first body; (c) a locking body coupled with the first body; and (d) a rod interface housed within the first body, wherein the locking body is configured to selectively affix the rod of the syringe to the rod interface, wherein the rod interface comprises a tilting surface engaged with the complementary tilting surface, wherein the tilting surface is configured to slide relative to the complementary tilting surface while the rod interface is affixed to the rod in order to tilt the rod relative to the first body.

[0110] Example 18

[0111] The rod fixing assembly of Example 17, wherein the complementary tilting surface comprises a semi-annular arched surface.

[0112] Example 19

[0113] The rod fixing assembly of any one or more of Examples 17 through 18, wherein the complementary tilting surface is fixed to the first body via threaded bolts.

[0114] Example 20

[0115] A syringe pump, comprising: (a) a frame; (b) an actuator associated with the frame; (c) a first syringe attachment feature coupled to the frame, wherein the first syringe attachment feature is configured to selectively attach to a first component of a syringe such that the first component of the syringe extends along a first axis; (d) a second syringe attachment feature , wherein the actuator is configured to generate movement between the first syringe attachment feature and the second syringe attachment feature, wherein the second syringe attachment feature comprises: (i) a first body associated with the frame, (ii) a complementary tilting surface, (iii) a locking body coupled with the first body, and (iv) a syringe interface housed within the first body, wherein the locking body is configured to selectively affix a second component of the syringe to the syringe interface, wherein the syringe interface configured to slide relative to the complementary tilting surface while the syringe interface is affixed to the secondcomponent of the syringe in order to tilt the second component of the syringe toward alignment with the first axis of the first component of the syringe.

[0116] Example 21

[0117] A clinical analyzer, comprising: (a) a pipette; (b) a syringe in fluid communication with the pipette; and (c) a syringe pump configured to drive fluid between the syringe and the pipette, the syringe pump comprising: (i) a frame, (ii) an actuator associated with the frame, (iii) a first syringe attachment feature coupled to the frame, wherein the first syringe attachment feature is configured to selectively attach to a first component of a syringe such that the first component of the syringe extends along a first axis, (iv) a second syringe attachment feature, wherein the actuator is configured to generate movement between the first syringe attachment feature and the second syringe attachment feature, wherein the second syringe attachment feature comprises: (A) a first body associated with the frame, (B) a complementary tilting surface, (C) a locking body coupled with the first body, and (D) a syringe interface housed within the first body, wherein the locking body is configured to selectively affix a second component of the syringe to the syringe interface, wherein the syringe interface configured to slide relative to the complementary tilting surface while the syringe interface is affixed to the second component of the syringe in order to tilt the second component of the syringe toward alignment with the first axis of the first component of the syringe.

[0118] III. Miscellaneous

[0119] It should be understood that any of the examples described herein may include various other features in addition to or in lieu of those described above. By way of example only, any of the examples described herein may also include one or more of the various features disclosed in any of the various references that are incorporated by reference herein.

[0120] It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. that are described herein. The above-described teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. should therefore not be viewed in isolation relative to each other. Various suitable ways inwhich the teachings herein may be combined will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations arc intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0121] It should be appreciated that any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

[0122] Having shown and described various versions of the present invention, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may be accomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill in the ail without departing from the scope of the present invention. Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and others will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, the examples, versions, geometries, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps, and the like discussed above are illustrative and are not required. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered in terms of the following claims and is understood not to be limited to the details of structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

Claims

I / we claim:

1. An apparatus, comprising:(a) a frame;(b) an actuator associated with the frame;(c) a first syringe attachment coupled to the frame, wherein the first syringe attachment body is configured to selectively affix to a first component of a syringe;(d) a second syringe attachment, wherein the actuator is configured to generate movement between the first syringe attachment and the second syringe attachment, wherein the second string attachment comprises:(i) a first body associated with the frame,(ii) a complementary tilting surface,(iii) a locking body coupled with the first body, and(iv) a syringe interface housed within the first body, wherein the locking body is configured to selectively affix a second component of the syringe to the syringe interface, wherein the syringe interface comprises a tilting surface engaged with the complementary tilting surface, wherein the tilting surface is configured to slide relative to the complementary tilting surface while the syringe interface is affixed to the second component of the syringe in order to tilt the second component of the syringe relative to the first component of the syringe within a first plane.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tilting surface is configured to slide relative to the complementary tilting surface while the syringe interface is affixed to the second component of the syringe in order to tilt the second component of the syringe relative to the first component of the syringe within a second plane.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first plane is perpendicular to the second plane.

4. The apparatus of any one or more of claims 1 through 3, wherein the second syringe attachment comprises a base, wherein the complementary tilting surface is associated with the base.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the first body defines a first receiving channel, wherein the syringe interface defines a second receiving channel, wherein the base defines a third receiving channel, wherein the first, second, and third receiving channels are dimensioned to cooperatively receive the second component of the syringe.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the syringe interface comprises at least one alignment surface configured to inhibit the second receiving channel from rotating out of alignment relative to the first and third receiving channels.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the first body comprises at least one complementary alignment surface configured to engage the at least one alignment surface of the syringe interface to inhibit the second receiving channel from rotating out of alignment relative to the first and third receiving channels.

8. The apparatus of any one or more of claims 4 through 7, wherein the first body of the second syringe attachment defines a first interface pocket, wherein the base of the second syringe attachment defines a second interface pocket, wherein the first interface pocket and the second interface pocket house the syringe interface.

9. The apparatus of any one or more of claims 1 through 8, wherein the complementary tilting surface comprises a first semi-annular arched surface, wherein the tilting surface of the syringe interface comprises a second semi-annular arched surface.

10. The apparatus of any one or more of claims 1 through 8, wherein the complementary tilting surface comprises an arched surface, wherein the tilting surface of the syringe interface comprise a second arched surface.

11. The apparatus of any one or more of claims 1 through 10, wherein the first component of the syringe comprises a barrel, wherein the second component of the syringe comprises a rod.

12. The apparatus of any one or more of claims 1 through 10, wherein the first component of the syringe comprises a rod, wherein the second component of the syringe comprises a barrel.

13. The apparatus of any one or more of claims 1 through 12, wherein the actuator is configured to drive actuation of the second syringe attachment relative to the frame.

14. The apparatus of any one or more of claims 1 through 13, wherein the first syringe attachment is fixedly attached to the frame.

15. The apparatus of any one or more of claims 1 through 14, wherein the first body is attached to the actuator.

16. The apparatus of any one or more of claims 1 through 15, wherein the locking body comprises a set screw.

17. A rod fixing assembly configured to attach to a rod of a syringe to a frame of a syringe pump, the rod fixing assembly comprising:(a) a first body associated with the frame;(b) a complementary tilting surface fixed relative to the first body;(c) a locking body coupled with the first body; and(d) a rod interface housed within the first body, wherein the locking body is configured to selectively affix the rod of the syringe to the rod interface, wherein the rod interface comprises a tilting surface engaged with the complementary tilting surface, wherein the tilting surface is configured to slide relative to the complementary tilting surface while the rod interfaceis affixed to the rod in order to tilt the rod relative to the first body.

18. The rod fixing assembly of claim 17, wherein the complementary tilting surface comprises a semi-annular arched surface.

19. The rod fixing assembly of any one or more of claims 17 through 18, wherein the complementary tilting surface is fixed to the first body via threaded bolts.

20. A syringe pump, comprising:(a) a frame;(b) an actuator associated with the frame;(c) a first syringe attachment feature coupled to the frame, wherein the first syringe attachment feature is configured to selectively attach to a first component of a syringe such that the first component of the syringe extends along a first axis;(d) a second syringe attachment feature , wherein the actuator is configured to generate movement between the first syringe attachment feature and the second syringe attachment feature, wherein the second syringe attachment feature comprises:(i) a first body associated with the frame,(ii) a complementary tilting surface,(iii) a locking body coupled with the first body, and(iv) a syringe interface housed within the first body, wherein the locking body is configured to selectively affix a second component of the syringe to the syringe interface, wherein the syringe interface configured to slide relative to the complementary tilting surface while the syringe interface is affixed to the second component of the syringe in order to tilt the second component of the syringe toward alignment with the first axis of the first component of the syringe.1 . A clinical analyzer, comprising:(a) a pipette;(b) a syringe in fluid communication with the pipette; and(c) a syringe pump configured to drive fluid between the syringe and the pipette, the syringe pump comprising:(i) a frame,(ii) an actuator associated with the frame,(iii) a first syringe attachment feature coupled to the frame, wherein the first syringe attachment feature is configured to selectively attach to a first component of a syringe such that the first component of the syringe extends along a first axis,(iv) a second syringe attachment feature, wherein the actuator is configured to generate movement between the first syringe attachment feature and the second syringe attachment feature, wherein the second syringe attachment feature comprises:(A) a first body associated with the frame,(B) a complementary tilting surface,(C) a locking body coupled with the first body, and(D) a syringe interface housed within the first body, wherein the locking body is configured to selectively affix a second component of the syringe to the syringe interface, wherein the syringe interface configured to slide relative to the complementary tilting surface while the syringe interface is affixed to the second component of the syringe in order to tilt the second component of the syringe toward alignment with the first axis of the first component of the syringe.

Images