Locking device, pipetting tool, process, accessory and associated installation

Abstract

The invention relates to a magnetic locking device for a pipetting tool, the device comprising a plate adapted to fit onto the pipetting tool, an accessory intended to be attached to a mounting tip carried by the plate and / or by the pipetting tool, the device comprising at least one lock (10) configured to transition from an active state to a passive state, and vice versa, such that in the active state the lock is capable of blocking particles present in the accessory during operation and such that in the passive state of the lock the particles are free to move within the accessory. The invention also relates to a corresponding tool, installation, accessory, and method. FIGURE IN ABRIDGED: [Fig. 2a]

Description

Title of the invention: Locking device, pipetting tool, associated method, accessory and installation

[0001] The invention relates to a locking device for a pipetting tool.

[0002] The invention also relates to a pipetting tool comprising such a locking device.

[0003] The invention also relates to a method using such a pipetting tool.

[0004] The invention also relates to an installation comprising such a pipetting tool.

[0005] The invention also relates to an accessory for such a pipetting tool.

[0006] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0007] In molecular biology, various techniques are known for extracting and purifying nucleic acids. One of these techniques is based on magnetic separation: the general principle is that negatively charged nucleic acids attach to the surface of magnetic particles whose surface is positively charged, which makes it possible to "attach" one or more types of nucleic acids to the particles and thus separate the nucleic acids from any impurities present in the initial solutions in which said nucleic acids were bathed.

[0008] Different methods also exist for bringing magnetic particles into contact with or separating them from nucleic acids in solutions.

[0009] A first method consists of placing a suspension of magnetic particles in a container and then moving the container onto a magnetic base which will allow the magnetic particles to be blocked in the container. One or more solutions are then sucked and / or injected into the container. The container is then moved again to a stirrer so as to release the particles.

[0010] Such a method therefore requires a relatively complex and bulky installation since it requires several workstations as well as significant handling of microplates containing the particles and / or solutions from one workstation to another.

[0011] A second method thus consists of depositing magnetic particles in a first solution containing nucleic acids. The first solution is then agitated to facilitate the attachment of the nucleic acids to the magnetic particles. Then the particles are removed from the first solution to be moved into a second solution allowing the washing of the microparticles. The second solution is then in turn agitated, etc. It is thus possible to move the particles from solution to solution to obtain the purification of the nucleic acids.

[0012] Although effective, such a method still proves to be relatively complex and fas- timid.

[0013] SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0014] An aim of the invention is to propose a solution making it easier to bring magnetic particles into contact with one or more solutions. Summary of the invention

[0015] With a view to achieving this aim, the invention proposes a magnetic locking device for a pipetting tool, an accessory being intended to be fixed to a fixing tip which is carried by the magnetic locking device and / or which is intended to be carried by the pipetting tool, the device comprising at least one lock configured to pass from an active state to a passive state, and vice versa, such that in the active state the lock is capable of blocking in use particles present in the accessory and such that in the passive state of the lock the particles are free to move in the accessory.

[0016] In this way, instead of moving the particles from container to container and / or from workstation to workstation to bring them into contact with one or more solutions and / or handling a container containing the particles suspended in a solution to bring the container into contact with magnets, offset from the container, thus immobilizing the particles to be able to take the solution from said container, the invention makes it possible to keep the particles continuously in the tip: the particles are thus blocked by the locking device for the time it takes to eject a solution and take a new one before being released again by the disengagement of the locking device so as to find themselves suspended in the new solution.

[0017] The invention thus makes it possible to bring particles into contact with several solutions simply and quickly.

[0018] Advantageously, the invention can easily be implemented in already existing pipetting tools.

[0019] For the present application, the term “solution” means a liquid and / or viscous element and the term “suspension” means such a solution when particles are immersed in said solution.

[0020] Optionally the lock is arranged at the tip.

[0021] Optionally the lock is arranged outside the end piece.

[0022] Optionally, the lock comprises at least one tab carrying an element of magnetic attraction.

[0023] Optionally a lower end of the leg carries the magnetic attraction element.

[0024] Optionally the tab is mounted to move relative to the end piece between a engaged position in which at least one area of ​​the tab carrying the magnetic attraction element is at the tip and a disengaged position in which at least said area is away from the tip.

[0025] Optionally, the leg is mounted to move in the device between its two positions according to a rotational movement.

[0026] Optionally, the lock is configured to be able to immobilize in service at least two clouds of particles relative to the tip.

[0027] Optionally, the lock comprises two tabs, each carrying a magnetic attraction element.

[0028] Optionally, the lock comprises at least one permanent magnet such as a neodymium magnet and / or at least one electromagnet.

[0029] Optionally at least the areas of the two legs carrying the magnetic attraction elements are arranged on either side of the associated end piece.

[0030] The invention also relates to a set of a pipetting tool and a device as mentioned above.

[0031] Optionally the device is integrated into the pipetting tool.

[0032] Optionally, the assembly includes at least one accessory secured to the end piece.

[0033] The accessory is for example a point (or “tip” in English).

[0034] Optionally at least a portion of the internal surface of said accessory and / or at least a portion of the internal surface of the tip is textured and / or at least one raised element is arranged in the accessory.

[0035] Optionally, the accessory and / or the end piece has a housing for receiving at least part of the lock.

[0036] Optionally, the accessory and / or another part of the assembly comprises at least one measuring device.

[0037] Optionally, the measuring device comprises an optical measuring device for at least one optical property of the particles and / or of a solution in which the particles are suspended.

[0038] Optionally, the measuring device comprises a device for measuring an electrochemical potential.

[0039] Optionally the tool is multi-channel.

[0040] The invention also relates to a method for connecting particles with at least one solution, the method using an assembly as mentioned above for:

[0041] - suck up the solution when the lock is in its active state and blocks the particles relative to the tip,

[0042] - put the lock in its passive state once the solution has been sucked up to leave the particles suspended in the solution present in the tool.

[0043] The invention also relates to a robotic installation comprising an assembly as mentioned above.

[0044] The invention also relates to an accessory for an assembly such as the aforementioned.

[0045] The accessory is for example a point (or “tip” in English).

[0046] Optionally, the accessory may comprise at least one housing, such as a flat, intended to reduce the distance between the particles and the lock.

[0047] This makes it possible to increase the magnetic field to which the particles are subjected.

[0048] The accessory may optionally comprise at least one textured zone and for example at least one relief (the textured zone being intrinsic to the accessory by being formed at the level of a wall of the accessory and / or being formed by an additional element added to the accessory).

[0049] The relief makes it possible to improve the mixing capacity of the particles with a suspension present in the accessory.

[0050] The accessory may optionally comprise at least one surface intended to measure and / or through which to measure at least one optical property of the particles immobilized by the lock, in particular the absorbance, the fluorescence and / or the luminescence at all wavelengths and for example at short ultraviolet, long ultraviolet, visible, near infrared and far infrared wavelengths.

[0051] The accessory may optionally comprise at least one surface intended to measure and / or through which to measure at least one optical property of a solution contained in the accessory, in particular absorbance, fluorescence and / or luminescence at all wavelengths and for example at short ultraviolet, long ultraviolet, visible, near infrared and far infrared wavelengths.

[0052] The accessory may optionally comprise at least one surface intended to measure and / or through which to measure at least one optical property of a suspension contained in the accessory, in particular the absorbance, fluorescence and / or luminescence at all wavelengths and for example at short ultraviolet, long ultraviolet, visible, near infrared and far infrared wavelengths, either in the presence of particles or in the absence of these particles previously immobilized by the lock away from this surface.

[0053] The accessory may optionally comprise at least one surface intended to measure and / or through which to measure at least the electrochemical potential of the particles, for example by means of at least one electrode.

[0054] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge on reading the following description of a particular non-limiting embodiment of the invention. Brief description of the drawings

[0055] The invention will be better understood in light of the following description with reference to the appended schematic figures, among which:

[0056] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] is a three-dimensional view of a pipetting tool according to a particular embodiment of the invention;

[0057] [Fig.2a] [Fig.2a] is a three-dimensional view of a portion of the tool illustrated in [Fig.l] when a tool locking device illustrated in [Fig.l] is in an active state;

[0058] [Fig.2b] [Fig.2b] is a three-dimensional view of a portion of the tool illustrated in [Fig.l] when a tool locking device illustrated in [Fig.l] is in a passive state;

[0059] [Fig.3a] [Fig.3a] schematically illustrates a first step of a particular implementation of a method using the tool illustrated in [Fig.l];

[0060] [Fig.3b] [Fig.3b] schematically illustrates a second step following the first step shown schematically in [Fig.3a];

[0061] [Fig.3c] [Fig.3c] schematically illustrates a third stage following the second stage shown schematically in [Fig.3b];

[0062] [Fig.3d] [Fig.3d] schematically illustrates a fourth step following the third step shown schematically in [Fig.3c];

[0063] [Fig.3e] [Fig.3e] schematically illustrates a step subsequent to the third step shown schematically in [Fig.3d]. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0064] With reference to [Fig.l], the pipetting tool 1 according to a particular embodiment of the invention is here a pipette.

[0065] The tool 1 comprises a body 2 comprising in the lower part a plurality of attachment tips 3 (only one part being referenced here) and for example between 1 and 16 attachment tips. Each tip 3 is shaped so that an accessory 4 (only one part being referenced here) can be temporarily attached to respectively one of said tips 3. Typically the upper end of each accessory 4 is arranged inside one of the tips 3 of the tool 1.

[0066] The accessory 4 is for example a point (or “tip” in English). The accessory 4 is for example shaped into a cone.

[0067] In this way, when the accessories 4 are fixed to the tips 3, each accessory 4 forms a particular channel with the associated tip 3. The tool 1 thus comprises here between 1 and 16 channels and preferably between 2 and 16 channels.

[0068] Tool 1 is therefore a multi-channel pipette.

[0069] At least at the level of their temporary connections, the end pieces 3 and the accessories 4 have a circular radial section.

[0070] The tool 1 is further shaped so that each channel extends rectilinearly in directions all parallel to each other and to a first general axis X.

[0071] Furthermore, the tool 1 is shaped so that the different channels extend side by side forming a single row of channels. The row thus extends along a second Y axis.

[0072] The tool 1 is shaped so that the second Y axis is here orthogonal to the first X axis.

[0073] Furthermore, the body 2 is extended in the upper part by a handle 5 for manipulating the tool. In use, an operator can thus manually move the tool 1 from point A to point B easily using said handle 5.

[0074] Tool 1 is therefore a manual pipetting tool.

[0075] According to a particular embodiment, the handle 5 comprises a portion of gripping 6 which extends substantially rectilinearly along the first axis X and which is extended above by a head 7.

[0076] Optionally, the gripping portion 6 is secured at a first end to an upper face of the body 2 and at a second end to the head 7.

[0077] The gripping portion 6 is here a rod.

[0078] The gripping portion 6 is preferably of radial section without edges. The portion gripping 6 is thus of circular, elliptical radial section...

[0079] This makes it possible to make the tool 1 ergonomic for the operator who therefore handles the tool 1 with his palm surrounding the gripping portion 6.

[0080] The head 7 is preferably arranged so as to extend in a direction inclined with respect to the first X.

[0081] Furthermore, the tool 1 is shaped to allow a fluid to be sucked into its various channels, to be held in said channels and to be released from said channels, according to the operator's commands.

[0082] For this purpose, a pumping module (not visible here) is optionally arranged in the handle 5 and connected to the different tips 3 (and therefore to the different channels when the accessories 4 are in place in the tool 1). Such a module being well known from the prior art, it will not be detailed further.

[0083] Tool 1 is therefore a piston pipette.

[0084] As indicated previously, the operator must be able to control the pumping module. For this purpose, the tool 1 comprises at least one interface for controlling the pumping module.

[0085] Optionally, a first control interface 8 is arranged on the gripping portion 6. The first interface 8 is for example a control button.

[0086] The first interface 8 is preferably arranged in the upper part of the gripping portion 6.

[0087] This makes the tool 1 more ergonomic for the operator who can thus surround the gripping portion 6 with his palm and operate the first interface 8 with his thumb when he wishes.

[0088] The first interface 8 is preferably arranged in a plane parallel to that defined by the X and Y axes.

[0089] The tool 1 is thus configured so that when the operator presses on the first interface 8, this causes the fluid to be sucked simultaneously into the different channels and when the operator presses on the first interface 8 again, this causes the fluid to be simultaneously expelled from the different channels.

[0090] Optionally, a second control interface 9 is arranged at the level of the head 7. The second interface 9 is, for example, a screen.

[0091] The second interface 9 thus makes it possible to provide various information to the operator (such as for example an indication of whether the channels are full or empty, in what quantities, an indication of the time, the battery level of the tool 1, etc.).

[0092] Preferably, the tool 1 is shaped so that in use the first interface 8 faces the user and the head 7 is inclined towards the rear of the tool 1 (in the opposite direction to the first interface 8).

[0093] This makes it easier for the operator to read the second interface 9.

[0094] According to a particular embodiment, the tool 1 comprises a control member (not visible here) of said tool and in particular of the pumping module. The control member is for example a calculator, a microcomputer, etc. The control member is arranged in the body 2 and / or the handle 5.

[0095] Thus, even if it is the operator who chooses to suck or release fluid into the channels, it is the control member itself which controls the pumping module to ensure that the operator's order is carried out correctly.

[0096] This allows you to work much more precisely.

[0097] Preferably, at least one of the control interfaces 8, 9 allows the operator to communicate with the control member.

[0098] In this case, the second interface 9 is tactile and allows the operator to communicate with the control unit.

[0099] In particular, the operator can thus indicate to the control unit the quantity of solution to be sucked into the different channels.

[0100] Preferably, the tool 1 incorporates a power supply module for the tool such as a battery.

[0101] This makes tool 1 more autonomous.

[0102] Alternatively or in addition, the tool 1 can operate by being connected to the mains.

[0103] According to the invention, and as more visible in figures 2a and 2b, the tool 1 comprises a magnetic locking device for particles intended to be arranged in the channels.

[0104] The particles are, in a manner known per se, magnetic particles such as magnetic and / or superparamagnetic metal particles.

[0105] It is recalled that a “superparamagnetic” particle is a particle which behaves like a magnet under the influence of an external magnetic field but which immediately loses its magnetic properties as soon as said external magnetic field stops.

[0106] The magnetic locking device here comprises a lock 10 associated with each end piece 3 (and therefore with each channel when the accessories 4 are in place).

[0107] Each lock 10 is arranged at the level of the associated end piece 3 and configured to pass from an active state to a passive state, and vice versa, such that:

[0108] - in the active state the lock 10 blocks in operation at least one first cloud of particles 100 present in the accessory 4 associated with the end piece 3 considered, and - in the passive state the at least one cloud of particles 100 is free to move in the accessory 4.

[0109] It is recalled that the particles are of very small dimensions. A particle thus generally has a diameter of between 10 nanometers and 100 micrometers and preferably between 300 nanometers and 10 micrometers. For example, microparticles, i.e. particles of at least 100 nanometers and preferably between 100 nanometers and 100 micrometers, could be chosen.

[0110] A very large multiplicity of particles is therefore present in service in each accessory 4. It is thus possible to have thousands or even millions of particles in the accessory 4.

[0111] As a result, each lock does not attract just one particle but a whole cloud of particles at once.

[0112] The different locks 10 being all identical to each other, the following description of one of them is also applicable to the other locks 10.

[0113] The lock 10 is preferably arranged outside the associated end piece 3 and therefore outside the possible associated accessory 4.

[0114] According to a particular embodiment, the lock 10 comprises at least one tab 11 carrying a magnetic attraction element 12.

[0115] The magnetic attraction element 12 is for example a magnet. The magnet is for example a permanent magnet. The magnet is for example a neodymium magnet.

[0116] The tab 11 is optionally shaped so as to have a free lower end 13 carrying the magnetic attraction element 12.

[0117] Preferably, said lower end 13 is flat and thus has two main flat faces.

[0118] According to a particular embodiment, the magnetic attraction element 12 is arranged in the tab 11 so as to project laterally therefrom: typically the magnetic attraction element 12 is arranged in the tab 11 so as to project externally from one of the two main flat faces of the lower end 13 (and more precisely from the flat face opposite the associated end piece 3).

[0119] Preferably, the tab 11 is mounted to move relative to the end piece 3, and outside the end piece 3, between:

[0120] - an engaged position in which at least the lower end 13 of the tab 11 is at the level of tip 3 (as shown in [Fig.2a]), and

[0121] - a disengaged position in which at least the lower end 13 of the tab 11 is distant from the tip 3 (as shown in [Fig.2b]).

[0122] In the engaged position of the tab 11, the magnetic attraction element 12 is thus level with the end piece 3. Preferably, the magnetic attraction element 12 is in the immediate vicinity of the end piece 3 or even resting against an external wall of the end piece 3. In the engaged position of the tab, the magnetic attraction element 12 can therefore block at least one cloud of particles 100 which would be present inside the channel in question by holding it in position against the internal wall of the end piece 3 and / or of the associated accessory 4.

[0123] The lock 10 is then in its active state.

[0124] In the disengaged position of the tab 11, the magnetic attraction element 12 is moved away from the end piece 3 so that it can no longer attract and press the cloud of particles 100 against the internal wall of the end piece 3 and / or the associated accessory 4.

[0125] The lock 10 is then in its passive state.

[0126] We can thus see that the lock 10 advantageously makes it possible to lock the cloud of particles 100 in the channel without the lock 10 itself being in contact with the interior of said channel.

[0127] Optionally, the second interface 9 provides an indication to the user of the state in which the lock 10 is located.

[0128] Typically the lock 10 comprises a drive mechanism (not visible here) which is connected to an upper end of the tab 11 to allow the movement of the tab 11 between these two positions.

[0129] Preferably, the tab 11 is mounted to move in the tool 1 between these two positions according to a rotational movement which here has an axis parallel to the second axis Y.

[0130] In the engaged position of the tab 11, preferably, at least the lower end of the tab 11 extends rectilinearly parallel to the axis X.

[0131] In the disengaged position of the tab 11, preferably, at least the lower end of the tab 11 extends inclined relative to said axis X.

[0132] Preferably, the control member is configured to control the mechanism actuation and thus the movement of the tab 11 between its engaged position and its disengaged position (and therefore the passage of the corresponding lock 10 from its active state to its passive state).

[0133] Optionally, it may be the operator who orders the passage of the tab 11 from one position to another (i.e. the passage of the lock 10 from an active state to a passive state), via one or more of the interfaces, or this may be carried out automatically by the control member.

[0134] According to a particular embodiment, each lock 10 is configured to be able to immobilize in position relative to the associated end piece 3 at least two clouds of magnetic particles 100.

[0135] For this purpose, each lock 10 here comprises a second tab 14 also carrying a magnetic attraction element 15. The two tabs 11, 14 of a lock 10 being identical to each other, the description which has just been given of the first tab 11 is therefore also applicable to the second tab 14.

[0136] In the present case, each magnetic attraction element 12, 15 is of a shape and dimensions capable of being able to maintain in position only a single cloud of particles 100 against the internal wall of the end piece 3 and / or of the associated accessory 4. Thus each lock 10 is here configured to be able to immobilize in position relative to the associated end piece 3 strictly two clouds of particles 100.

[0137] At least the lower ends of the two legs 11, 14 are optionally arranged on either side of the associated end piece 3. Thus, said lower ends are arranged in a radially opposite manner.

[0138] In this way, in the engaged position of the two legs 11, 14, the two lower ends, and more particularly their two magnets, face each other on either side of the channel in question. The two lower ends then extend parallel to each other and to the first axis X. Furthermore, the two magnets are substantially at the same height (the height being considered along the first axis X).

[0139] In their disengaged position, the two lower ends, and more particularly the two magnetic attraction elements 12, 15, are inclined relative to each other and to the first axis X, moving further and further away from each other as one approaches their free edges.

[0140] Preferably, the drive mechanism of the lock 10 is the same for the two legs 11, 14. The actuating mechanism comprises, for example, pinching means making it possible to bring the two upper ends of the two legs 11, 14 closer together or apart and consequently to respectively move the corresponding lower ends further apart or together.

[0141] The two legs 11, 14 are therefore moved simultaneously to be together in the engaged position or together in the disengaged position.

[0142] In the present case, the tool 1 here comprises as many drive mechanisms as there are locks 10. According to a particular embodiment, the tool 1 is furthermore shaped so that all the locks 10 are actuated simultaneously.

[0143] With reference to Figures 3a to 3e, a particular implementation of the invention will now be described.

[0144] As can be seen in [Fig.3a], the tool 1 is in the initial state without any accessories. Accessories 4 are then arranged in a row on a support S and the tool 1 is positioned directly above said support S to secure an accessory 4 to each end piece 3 of the tool 1.

[0145] Such a step is well known from the prior art and will not be detailed here.

[0146] With reference to [Fig.3b], a solution comprising suspended magnetic particles is taken with the tool 1, the suspension being placed in a container R which can be of any type.

[0147] With reference to [Fig.3c], the locking device is activated (the locks 10 are in their active state). The suspension present in the channels is then agitated so that the particles pass in front of the locks 10 and can thus fix themselves at their levels under their magnetic actions. This agitation can be manual but is preferably done automatically. For example, an operator can cause this agitation by controlling the pumping module which will allow the suspension to be moved in the channels without, however, said suspension being released from the channels (this being possible since the volume of suspension sucked up is known which makes it possible to determine what pressure can be exerted by the pumping module so as not to cause the suspension to be expelled). Preferably, at least one sweep (i.e. at least one up-and-down movement) of the suspension is ensured.

[0148] Then the solution is actually ejected by the tool 1: thanks to the different locks 10, two clouds of particles 100 per channel are however held in place despite the withdrawal of the solution.

[0149] With reference to [Fig.3d], a first solution is then taken, sometimes also called a “reagent”, which is liquid here. The locking device is then deactivated (the locks 10 are in their passive state): the particles which were held against the internal wall of the associated channel can thus circulate freely in the first solution and thus be loaded with one or more components such as, for example (and in a non-limiting manner) one or more nucleic acids.

[0150] In order to improve the movement of the particles 100 in the first solution, the suspension present in the channels can be agitated. This agitation can be manual but is preferably done automatically. For example, an operator can cause this agitation by controlling the pumping module which will make it possible to move the suspension in the channels without, however, said suspension being released from the channels (this being possible since the volume of suspension sucked is known, which makes it possible to determine what pressure can be exerted by the pumping module so as not to cause the expulsion of the suspension). Preferably, at least one sweep (i.e. at least one up-and-down movement) of the suspension is ensured.

[0151] Preferably, the accessories 4 and / or the tips 3 are shaped to present at least on a portion of their internal surface (i.e. the surface in contact with the particles) a textured appearance promoting the movement of the suspension in said accessories 4 and thus improving the mixing capacity of the particles with said first solution (and the subsequent solutions encountered). For example, said portion comprises raised elements such as fins and / or ribs.

[0152] Then, according to a step N, the locking device is activated again and the suspension present in the channels is then agitated so that the particles pass in front of the locks 10 and can thus fix themselves at their levels under their magnetic actions. Then the first solution is ejected by the tool 1: thanks to the different locks 10 the two clouds of particles 100 per channel are however held in place.

[0153] A second solution is then taken, according to a step N+1. The locking device is then deactivated: the clouds of particles 100 which were held against the internal wall of the associated channel can thus circulate freely in the second solution and take on one or more new components such as, for example (and in a non-limiting manner) one or more nucleic acids identical to or different from those present in the first solution.

[0154] Steps N and N+1 are then repeated as often as the operator wishes.

[0155] Then, we eject the last solution used while keeping the clouds blocked of 100 particles in the channels.

[0156] Then, a neutral solution is taken with tool 1 and then the locking device is deactivated.

[0157] With reference to [Fig.3e], the neutral suspension which therefore contains the particles is then ejected into a support since the locking device is deactivated at the time of ejection of the particles.

[0158] The tool 1 thus makes it possible to simply and quickly bring the particles 100 into contact with different solutions.

[0159] Advantageously, the tool 1 can be used with any type of particles 100 already existing on the market.

[0160] Furthermore, the magnetic locking device can be integrated into any type of pipetting tool already existing on the market.

[0161] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described and variant embodiments can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0162] In particular, the locking device may be used in many applications other than the extraction and / or purification of nucleic acids. The locking device may thus be used for any contacting of particles with one or more solutions. In general, any operation requiring the contacting of particle surfaces with solutions may be implemented by the invention. By way of non-limiting example, the invention may thus be used in the context of protein extraction and / or purification, in the context of carrying out immuno-enzymatic tests, etc.

[0163] Although here the pipetting tool is a multi-channel pipette, the pipetting tool could be of another type and be for example a single-channel pipette, a single-channel or multi-channel micropipette...

[0164] Furthermore, although here the tool is a manual pipetting tool, i.e. intended to be handled by a human operator, the tool may be a robotic pipetting tool, i.e. intended to be handled by a robot. The pipetting tool may thus be incorporated into a robotic installation comprising one or more workstations, the pipetting tool being movable within said installation.

[0165] Although here the locking device is carried by the pipetting tool, the locking device may be carried by another element. For example, a robotic arm of a robotic installation may carry the locking device in order to move it closer to or further away from the pipetting tool. The pipetting tool may also be divided into several blocks that may or may not be movable between them (for example, a block carrying the pumping module and / or a block carrying the tips and / or a block carrying the locking device).

[0166] Although here the fluid is sucked or released simultaneously in the different channels, the tool may be arranged so that the fluid can be sucked or released independently from one channel to another. An operator will thus be able to choose which channels must suck a fluid and / or which channels must release a fluid.

[0167] In the same way, although here the different locks of the device are all actuated or deactivated simultaneously, the locking device may be arranged so that the locks can be actuated / deactivated independently. An operator will thus be able to choose in which channels the particles must be fixed relative to the channel in which they are located or, on the contrary, mobile.

[0168] Although here the locks are located at the level of the end pieces, the locks could be arranged differently and for example strictly at the level of the accessories.

[0169] Within the same locking device, the locks may be different. between them. Each lock will be able to hold in place a different number of particle clouds than what has been indicated.

[0170] Although here the lock is entirely arranged outside the channel and the end piece, the lock may be arranged partly or entirely inside the channel and / or the end piece.

[0171] Each lock may have a different number of tabs than indicated and for example a single tab. The same tab may carry at least two magnetic attraction elements for temporarily fixing two clouds of particles in the tip.

[0172] The at least one tab may be mounted to move in the body according to a movement other than that indicated and for example a translational movement. The tab may also be movable in the body according to a rotational movement of an axis different from the second axis Y. For example, the tab may be mounted to rotate on itself (for example according to an axis orthogonal to the first axis X and to the second axis Y) in the manner of a wheel, thus making it possible to move the magnetic attraction element away from or towards the channel in question.

[0173] The drive mechanism may therefore comprise one or more motors, one or more worm screws, one or more linkage systems, etc., so that the tab describes the intended movement. The drive mechanism may be at least partly common to all the locks depending on whether the locks are desired to be independent or not.

[0174] The lock may of course be different from what has been described.

[0175] For example, instead of a magnetic attraction element that is brought closer or moved away, it will be possible to have a magnetic attraction element that is masked to switch the lock from one state to another. The magnetic attraction element can be masked directly by a removable cover or indirectly, for example by having the magnetic attraction element supported by one face of a support and pivoting the support between two positions depending on whether the magnetic attraction element is desired to be facing the channel (active state of the lock) or with its back to the channel (passive state of the lock).

[0176] Furthermore, the lock may switch from its active state to its passive state other than by a movement within said lock: the lock may thus be configured to switch from its active state to its passive state by powering or cutting off the power supply to said lock. For example, the lock may include an electromagnet which, depending on whether it is powered or not, makes it possible to block in position or not at least one cloud of particles in the channel in question.

[0177] Although here the accessories are disposable elements intended to be secured only temporarily to the tip, said accessories may not be disposable elements. Alternatively or in addition, the accessories may thus be of a integral with the tips and / or remain rigidly attached to the rest of the tool and / or the locking device between two uses.

[0178] The pipetting tool may of course be different from what has been indicated. Thus, one may start with a pipetting tool of the prior art on which one will position the locking device at its tip(s). For example, the locking device may comprise at least one plate carrying at least the lock (and for example, the plate may comprise at least one tip that is fixed to at least one tip already existing on the pipetting tool). The accessory(ies) will then be secured directly to the tip of the plate and / or the tips of the pipetting tool. In this way, a magnetic field may be applied to the accessory thanks to the addition of the plate. Nevertheless, one can advantageously take advantage of the pumping module already in place in the existing pipetting tool to aspirate and / or eject and / or move a solution in the accessory.

[0179] As indicated above, it will be possible to have the locking device not fixed to the pipetting tool but able to move relative to it (for example via robotic arms).

[0180] At least one of the accessories and / or at least one of the tips may be different from what has been indicated. For example, at least one of the accessories and / or at least one of the tips may be shaped so that it can be arranged as close as possible to the lock. At least one of the accessories and / or at least one of the tips may thus, for example, have a housing (such as a flat) for receiving the lock. This will make it possible to reduce the distance between the particles present in the associated channel and the lock and thus to increase the magnetic forces to which the particles are subjected.

[0181] Although here at least a portion of the internal surface of the accessory and / or at least a portion of the internal surface of the tip is textured, the accessory and / or the tip may be shaped differently in order to promote the movement of the suspension in the accessory and / or the tip. For example, the accessory and / or the tip may be provided with an element arranged in said accessory and / or said tip, such as, for example, an element shaped as a screw or having fins or any other type of static mixer.

[0182] At least one of the accessories and / or the locking device and / or the tool and / or the robotic installation may comprise at least one measuring device configured to

[0183] - measure at least one optical property of the particles present in the associated channel among absorbance, fluorescence, luminescence ... for all waves whether in short ultraviolet waves, long ultraviolet waves, visible waves, near infrared waves, in far infrared ... (preferably this measurement being carried out when the particles are stationary in the associated channel via the lock);

[0184] and / or

[0185] - measure at least one optical property of a solution (liquid for example) present in the associated channel among absorbance, fluorescence, luminescence ... for any wave whether in short ultraviolet waves, long ultraviolet waves, visible waves, near infrared waves, far infrared waves ... (this measurement can be carried out when particles are suspended in the solution and / or when the particles are immobile in the solution under the action of the lock, the measurement being carried out outside the clouds of particles);

[0186] and / or

[0187] - measuring at least one chemical property of the particles and / or of a solution (for example liquid) present in the associated channel such as an electrochemical potential.

[0188] The measuring device may thus comprise an optical sensor, one or more electrodes...

Claims

Claims

1. Magnetic locking device for a pipetting tool, - an accessory being intended to be fixed to a fixing tip, - said fixing tip being carried by the locking device and / or being intended to be carried by the pipetting tool, - said device comprising at least one lock (10) arranged at the tip and configured to switch from an active state to a passive state, and vice versa, such that in the active state the lock is capable of blocking in use particles present in the accessory and such that in the passive state of the lock the particles are free to move in the accessory.

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the lock (10) is arranged outside the end piece (3).

3. Device according to one of claims 1 to 2, in which the lock (10) comprises at least one tab (11, 14) carrying a magnetic attraction element (12, 15).

4. A device according to claim 3, wherein a lower end (13) of the tab carries the magnetic attraction element.

5. Device according to claim 3 or claim 4, in which the tab (11, 14) is mounted to move relative to the end piece (3) between an engaged position in which at least one zone of the tab carrying the magnetic attraction element is at the level of the end piece and a disengaged position in which at least said zone is distant from the end piece.

6. Device according to claim 5, in which the tab (11, 14) is mounted to move in the device between its two positions according to a rotational movement.

7. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which the lock (10) is configured to be able to immobilize in use at least two clouds of particles relative to the tip.

8. Device according to claim 7, in which the lock (10) comprises two tabs (11, 14) each carrying a magnetic attraction element.

9. Device according to claim 8, wherein at least areas of the two legs carrying the magnetic attraction elements are arranged on either side of the associated tip (3).

10. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, in which the lock comprises at least one permanent magnet and / or one electromagnet.

11. Assembly of a locking device according to one of claims 1 to 10 and a pipetting tool.

12. An assembly according to claim 11, wherein the locking device is carried by the pipetting tool.

13. Assembly according to one of claims 11 and 12, comprising at least one accessory (4) secured to the end piece.

14. An assembly according to claim 13, wherein at least a portion of the internal surface of the accessory (4) and / or at least a portion of the internal surface of the tip is textured and / or at least one raised element is arranged in the accessory and / or the tip.

15. Assembly according to claim 13 or claim 14, in which the accessory (4) and / or the end piece has a housing for receiving at least part of the lock.

16. Assembly according to one of claims 11 to 15, comprising at least one measuring device.

17. An assembly according to claim 16, wherein the measuring device comprises an optical measuring device for at least one optical property of the particles and / or a solution in which the particles are suspended.

18. An assembly according to claim 16, wherein the measuring device is a device for measuring an electrochemical potential.

19. Assembly according to one of claims 11 to 18, in which the tool is multi-channel.

20. Robotic installation comprising an assembly according to one of claims 11 to 19.

21. Method for connecting particles with at least one solution, the method using an assembly according to one of claims 11 to 19 for: - sucking up the solution when the lock (10) is in its active state and blocks the particles relative to the tip (3), - switching the lock (10) to its passive state once the solution has been sucked up to leave the particles suspended in the solution present in the tool.

22. Accessory for an assembly according to one of claims 11 to 19, in which the accessory is secured to the locking device and / or to the body of the tool.

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