Specimen container holding device and kit equipped with the device

Abstract

The present invention provides a container capable of holding specimen containers (wells) and pipette tips, or multiple types of specimen containers and pipette tips. [Solution] In one embodiment, the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container 1 has a housing member 2 and a holding member 3, wherein the first area 30 of the holding member 3 has a plurality (72) first receiving positions 30.1, 30.2, 30.3, ... 30.72 for receiving a first type of specimen container and / or pipette tip, and the second area 31 has a plurality (24) second receiving positions 31.1, 31.2, 31.3, ... 31.24 for receiving a second type of specimen container and / or pipette tip.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to an apparatus for holding a specimen container (sample vessel) and / or a pipette tip, which includes a holding member having a plurality of receiving positions and locations respectively.

Background Art

[0002] Manual and automatic pipetting devices or pipetting machines for handling pipette tips, i.e., liquid handling systems, are used in various analyzers where liquids are handled, such as in laboratories, research rooms, etc., for example, for transportation, collection, or dispensing. Disposable pipette tips are used in such devices or machines. Disposable pipette tips usually have a conical shape from top to bottom, and may have a special-shaped portion for engaging the pipette tip with a coupling device that engages inside the pipette tip of a pipetting machine or an automatic pipetting device, and for sealing the pipette tip itself. Pipetting machines and automatic pipetting devices usually engage with the upper part of the pipette tip. In many analyzers, the coupling device is inserted into the upper internal space of the pipette tip. Pipetting machines and automatic pipetting devices suck liquid into the pipette tip by applying negative pressure and discharge liquid from the pipette tip by generating positive pressure.

[0003] In addition, so-called microtiter plates are used in laboratories, etc., for example, to examine the biological characteristics of specimens by absorbance measurement or PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests. Microtiter plates are used in various microbiological work processes. Typical application fields are cell culture and screening of biological reactions. Microtiter plates are made to have a large number of specimen wells (sample wells) so as to be suitable for culturing and testing a large number of specimens and with high throughput. The specimen wells can be filled and emptied with high throughput using an automatic device, such as the automatic pipetting device mentioned above.

[0004] Microtiter plates are typically made from plastics such as polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, or polyamide. Specimen wells can be arranged in a predetermined number and in rows within the tray. The number of wells on a microtiter plate tray is arbitrary, ranging from a few (e.g., 2 x 3) to several thousand (e.g., 48 x 72). The wells may be made from the same material as the tray or from a different material.

[0005] Pipette tips and specimen containers are typically manufactured using injection molding processes from moldable plastics such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polycarbonate (PC), or similar materials, because plastics offer a good combination of properties, such as chemical resistance, low surface adsorption, transparency (if required), and cost-effective production. Pipette tips are also manufactured in various sizes to enable accurate and reproducible handling of liquids across a wide volume range (nanoliters to milliliters).

[0006] In many cases, pipette tips and specimen containers are used in large quantities for the automated processing of numerous specimens and for adding various reagents to them.

[0007] However, there are specialized analytical instruments that use pipette tips made from materials such as ceramics or metals, and examples of such specialized applications include those requiring strong chemical properties, such as corrosion resistance or heat resistance. In addition, ceramic pipette tips can be manufactured in smaller dimensions, especially smaller outlet openings. However, ceramic and metal pipette tips are considerably more complex in terms of manufacturing and material usage.

[0008] To facilitate the easy handling of large quantities of pipette tips and specimen containers, pipette tips and containers are often supplied in pipette tip trays with an opening at the top. Within these openings, the pipette tips and containers are arranged and held in an array. These trays can then be placed or mounted on a carrier. These trays and carriers form a pipette tip holder / container holder, and lids may be attached to these holders to cover the pipette tips and specimen containers.

[0009] Furthermore, holders for pipette tips and / or specimen containers (microtiter plates) are designed to allow for the parallel analysis of numerous specimens in an analytical laboratory, and each holder is designed to be used in a specific process step. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] Based on this, the object of the present invention is to provide a pipette tip and / or specimen container (microtiter plate) holding device, a tray for pipette tips and / or specimen containers (microtiter plates), and a pipette tip and / or specimen container (microtiter plate) holding assembly that enables specific processing of specimens within an automated analyzer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] This objective is achieved by the pipette tip and / or specimen container holder according to claim 1. Dependent claims refer to features of preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0012] The specimen container and / or pipette tip holding device according to the present invention comprises a holding member, the holding member having at least one first receiving position and location, and at least one second receiving position and location, thereby receiving and holding at least one specimen container and / or at least one pipette tip, and having at least two different receiving positions and locations.

[0013] This means that each of these receiving locations and positions is suitable for receiving different types and sizes of pipette tips and specimen containers, and for receiving pipette tips and specimen containers simultaneously at different locations / positions. The receiving locations / positions should be designed so that all pipette tips and specimen containers required for a specific analytical program can be provided in their respective holders and trays. This enables individual sample processing in the analytical instrument. The holder, as a result, becomes a multi-functional microtiter plate, or a multi-functional holder or receiver, or a multi-functional tray for pipette tips and specimen containers.

[0014] In particular, the first receiving position / location and the second receiving position / location are designed to accept different containers and / or different types of pipette tips, and / or at least one receiving location is designed to accept a container and at least one receiving location is designed to accept a pipette tip.

[0015] Many analytical methods require the transfer of liquids between containers of different volumes. Taking this into consideration, in one configuration according to the present invention, a receiving location / position of type / size X1 is provided on a certain part x1 of the entire surface of the holder, a receiving location / position of type / size X2 is provided on another part x2 of the entire surface of the holder, and so on, and x1 + x2 + x3 + ... + xn = 100%, where n is the total number of types of receiving locations / positions in the apparatus.

[0016] By selecting a suitable arrangement consisting of various types or sizes of receiving points / positions, for example, a planned analytical procedure within an analytical robot can be optimized in terms of procedure time and reliability by reducing the distance involved in handling pipette tips and sample containers.

[0017] The retaining member can have a plate-shaped receiving surface, and the receiving location / position can be formed as an opening in the retaining member. These openings may have an open bottom or a closed bottom (blind hole). They can have various cross-sectional geometric shapes.

[0018] For example, the opening at the first receiving position / location may have a different diameter from the opening at the second receiving position / location. The term "diameter" usually refers to a circular opening, but in the context of this invention, if the opening has a different shape (e.g., square, elliptical, etc.), this term should be understood to mean the average diameter.

[0019] The first receiving location / position and the second receiving location / position each have an edge area that defines their own opening, and the edge areas of the first receiving location / position and the second receiving location / position can be designed differently. For example, the opening can be defined by a sleeve having a specific axial length. The sleeve-shaped edge area can be provided with various sleeve axial lengths and / or various sleeve geometric shapes.

[0020] All receiving locations / positions may have a support rim that defines the receiving opening, and such support rims may be provided so as to support a corresponding protrusion or vane designed and positioned on the outside of a container or pipette tip, which is interchangeable with specific types / sizes of receiving locations / positions.

[0021] The retaining member may comprise an arrangement of at least one first area with a first receiving location and a second area with at least one second receiving location. Several areas can be provided for different types of specimen containers or pipette tips, and each type can be provided with the same type of receiving location within each area. Examples of such arrangements are presented in the following description of preferred embodiments.

[0022] These areas can form self-contained modular areas. This means that at least one of these areas can physically or virtually form, or be perceived as, a module having a specific type of receiving area(s). Modular design, in particular, means that these modules form units having a specific type of receiving area / location and / or that these modules are manufactured using different manufacturing processes and / or from different materials and / or with different properties, and / or that they can be manufactured as separate components and assembled and connected to other modules to form a container or tray.

[0023] The retaining members can be substantially composed of areas that are located in close proximity to each other, or these areas can be designed as individual modules.

[0024] These modularly designed areas can be connected to one another (e.g., plug-connected) and / or mounted to one another.

[0025] In view of this purpose, these modularly designed areas may be provided with guide and / or fastening elements.

[0026] In particular, this device can be designed as a container comprising a housing member and a retaining member placed on top of it. These members can be designed as a single piece / integrated unit or as multiple separate parts. The container can optionally be made to have a lid.

[0027] Alternatively, the device can also be designed as a tray.

[0028] The object of the present invention is also achieved by a combined device comprising the above-mentioned tray and a housing member (also known as a "rack" or a "carrier"), wherein the tray is arranged on the housing member. The housing member can be used as a frame, and the frame can be configured such that a window for inserting the tray is arranged at the upper part of the frame, and a vertical surface is arranged at the lower part of the frame. In this case, the tray is supported by the rack.

[0029] With the help of the device or the combined device according to the present invention, a kit can be provided, which comprises the above-mentioned device, a specimen container and / or a pipette tip used in a predetermined analysis program. Reagents required in the analysis program can be pre-loaded into these containers. By using a special or specially designed automatic analyzer into which the device according to the present invention can be inserted, a person without knowledge of handling analysis specimens can also perform the analysis procedure.

[0030] In combination with the following description and reference to the drawings, further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent. The following are shown in the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0031] [Figure 1A] It is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a container for holding a specimen container and / or a pipette tip according to the present invention. [Figure 1B] It is a top view of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1A. [Figure 2A] It is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a container for holding a specimen container and / or a pipette tip according to the present invention. [Figure 2B] It is a top view of the second embodiment shown in FIG. 2A. [Figure 3A]This is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 3B] Figure 3A is a top view of the third embodiment. [Figure 4A] This is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 4B] Figure 4A is a top view of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 5A] This is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 5B] Figure 5A is a top view of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 6A] This is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 6B] Figure 6A is a top view of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 7A] This is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 7B] Figure 7A is a top view of the seventh embodiment. [Figure 8A] This is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 8B] Figure 8A is a top view of the eighth embodiment. [Figure 9A] This is a perspective view of the ninth embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 9B] Figure 9A is a top view of the ninth embodiment. [Figure 10A] This is a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 10B] Figure 10A is a top view of the tenth embodiment. [Figure 11A] This is a perspective view of the 11th embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 11B]Figure 11A is a top view of the 11th embodiment. [Figure 12A] This is a perspective view of a twelfth embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 12B] Figure 12A is a top view of the twelfth embodiment. [Figure 13A] This is a perspective view of the 13th embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 13B] Figure 13A is a top view of the 13th embodiment. [Figure 13C] Figure 13A is a bottom view of the 13th embodiment. [Figure 14A] This is a perspective view of the 14th embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 14B] Figure 14A is a top view of the 14th embodiment. [Figure 15A] This is a perspective view of the 15th embodiment of the specimen container and / or pipette tip holding container according to the present invention. [Figure 15B] Figure 15A is a top view of the 15th embodiment. [Figure 16A] This is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the tray according to the present invention. [Figure 16B] Figure 16A is a top view of the first embodiment of the tray shown. [Figure 17A] This is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the tray according to the present invention. [Figure 17B] Figure 17A is a top view of a second embodiment of the tray shown. [Figure 18A] This is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the tray according to the present invention. [Figure 18B] Figure 18A is a top view of the third embodiment of the tray shown. [Figure 19A] This is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the assembly according to the present invention. [Figure 19B] Figure 19A is a top view of the first embodiment of the assembly shown. [Figure 20A]This is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the assembly according to the present invention. [Figure 20B] Figure 20A is a top view of a second embodiment of the assembly shown. [Figure 21A] This is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the assembly according to the present invention. [Figure 21B] Figure 21A is a top view of a third embodiment of the assembly shown. [Figure 22A] This is a perspective view of a tray with a guide element according to the present invention. [Figure 22B] Figure 22A is a top view of the tray with guide elements shown. [Figure 22C] This is a detailed view of Figure 22A. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0032] Figures 1A to 22C show various examples of embodiments of the present invention related to combinations of elements, such as a microtiter plate having specimen wells, a pipette tip tray and container having pipette tips, and a kit for multifunctional applications.

[0033] [Microtiter Plate] Microtiter plates are typically made from plastics such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene fluoroethylene (PEFE), polystyrene (PS), polysiloxane, polyurethane, cellulose, polyamide (PA), and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). Specimen wells can be arranged in rows and columns in a predetermined number within the tray, i.e., arranged vertically and horizontally. The number of containers on the microtiter plate tray is arbitrary, and the individual receiving points and positions for specimen containers can range from a few (e.g., 2 x 3) to several thousand (e.g., 48 x 72). Containers may be made from the same material as the tray or from a different material, depending on the application. Containers may be supplied individually. Alternatively, several containers may be connected to form, for example, a planar element or an elongated strip-like element.

[0034] [Pipette tip holder] A pipette tip holder (e.g., a container or tray) is a component that provides pipette tips used in analytical instruments, etc. A pipette tip holder typically has at least one carrier ("rack"), a lid, and a tray inside which pipette tips are loaded, and the pipette tips are often arranged in an array in a manner that is virtually immobile.

[0035] The tray is positioned on top of the carrier and has an opening for receiving pipette tips. The tray may be directly integrated into the carrier, for example, by being molded onto it, or it may form a separate unit that is mounted on the carrier, for example by snap or latch connections, adhesive, welding, etc.

[0036] Used pipette tips are inserted into the tray openings in a manner that allows them to be removed. They typically rest against the edge of one of the tray openings. They may extend above the edge of the tray, while the lower part of the pipette tip is usually below the bottom surface of the tray. The tray may have a suitable number of openings, for example, 8 × n (n = 1, 2, ..., 432) openings.

[0037] Each component of the pipette tip holder can be made from a suitable material, such as one or more types of plastic / resin materials, including polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene fluorescein (PEFE), polystyrene (PS), polysiloxane, polyurethane, cellulose, polyamide (PA), and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).

[0038] The components of a pipette tip holder or tray may be individually molded and then assembled. The manufacturing process for these components may include thermoforming, extrusion, or mold forming (plastic injection molding).

[0039] The components of the pipette tip holder are assembled or joined together as a single unit. In another embodiment, they may be manufactured using a two-component injection molding process. The lid can be precisely fitted onto the carrier by engaging it, for example, with a groove or recess formed within the carrier. The lid may be loosely or movably connected to the carrier, for example, via a plug connection, or rotatably connected via a hinge.

[0040] [Pipette tips and specimen containers] Pipette tips and specimen containers are typically made from moldable plastics / resins, such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), or similar materials, using injection molding processes. This is because plastics offer a good combination of properties, such as chemical resistance, low surface adsorption, transparency (if required), and cost-effective production. Pipette tips are also manufactured in various sizes to enable accurate and reproducible handling of liquids across a wide volume range (nanoliters to milliliters).

[0041] Pipette tips and specimen containers inserted into the tray can be substantially fixed along the lateral and longitudinal directions, for example, by the shape of the tray opening. The edges of these openings can be conical. Fixation can be achieved by engagement by shape, engagement by force, and / or engagement by friction. In another embodiment, particularly in the case of specimen containers, material welding may be possible.

[0042] Pipette tips and sample containers with various geometric shapes are known. By adapting the geometric shapes of pipette tips and sample containers, they can be made suitable for receiving and dispensing liquids in conjunction with analytical instruments, pipetting devices, or coupling devices for automated pipetting devices. Typically, pipette tips and sample containers of various sizes are available, such as 10 microliters, 50 microliters, 100 microliters, 250 microliters, 1000 microliters, and 2500 microliters.

[0043] The external and internal shapes of pipette tips are adapted for use in combination with or in conjunction with specific liquid handling systems, such as pipetting machines or automated pipetting devices. The external shape of a pipette tip is typically tapered from the top (proximal end) (where the first upper opening is located) to the bottom (distal end) (where a second, smaller lower opening is located). The external shape must be suitable for mounting the pipette tip to a coupling device.

[0044] The inner wall of the pipette tip defines a substantially tapered internal space, and steps, enlargements, or inwardly extending protrusions can be provided in specific parts of its internal shape. The taper can be continuous and / or stepped, uniform and / or non-uniform, either entirely or partially. It must be ensured that the collected fluid has suitable fluid flow properties. In most embodiments, the inner wall of the pipette tip has at least two taper angles.

[0045] The outer and inner walls each have a substantially tapered outer shape, such as a stepped or conical shape. The taper angle of these walls is approximately 0° to 30° with respect to the central long axis, for example, 0°, 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, or 30°. In certain embodiments, the outer and inner walls have stepped or conical shapes. Steps, contact points, locking points, or grooves can be provided.

[0046] The total length of a typical conventional pipette tip is approximately 2.5 cm to 10 cm. The typical inner diameter of the distal dispensing opening is 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, for example, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, and 0.8 mm. The wall thickness in that (distal) portion is approximately 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, for example, 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, and 0.5 mm.

[0047] The inner diameter in the proximal portion is approximately 2.5 mm to 10 mm, for example, 2.5 mm, 5 mm, 7.5 mm, and 10 mm, and the typical wall thickness in the proximal portion is 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, for example, 0.5 mm, 0.75 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.25 mm, and 1.5 mm.

[0048] The wall thickness can be kept constant along a certain section, or it can be varied continuously and / or stepped.

[0049] A filter, insert, or other auxiliary material can be placed in the proximal or distal portion of the pipette tip.

[0050] In one embodiment, a (disposable) pipette tip comprises a wall defining an internal space, a first upper (proximal) opening and a second lower (distal) opening located at the upper and lower ends of the internal space, respectively, a first portion near the upper opening, a second portion near the first portion, a third portion near the second portion, a fourth portion near the third portion, a fifth portion near the fourth portion extending into the lower opening, a first transition area between the first and second portions, a second transition area between the second and third portions, and a third transition area between the third and fourth portions, wherein these portions and transition areas may have the configuration, internal shape, or internal geometric shape described later in relation to the present invention.

[0051] The area referred to by the term "upper" is the area within the interior or wall of the pipette tip, near the upper (proximal) first opening, through which the pipetting device's holding / sealing pin can be inserted as intended to hold and seal the pipette tip. The area referred to by the term "lower" is the area within the interior or wall of the pipette tip, near the lower (distal) second opening, through which the pipetted fluid is expected to be drawn in or discharged during operation. The upper opening (first opening) is usually larger than the lower opening (second opening).

[0052] The direction "from top to bottom" means the axial direction from the upper (proximal) opening to the lower (distal) opening. "Axial" is the direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the upper and / or lower edges of the pipette tip. "Radial" means the direction parallel to the plane defined by the upper and / or lower edges of the pipette tip, i.e., perpendicular to the "axial" direction. The taper from top to bottom, i.e., the reduction in cross-sectional area, means that the cross-sectional area near the first opening is larger than the cross-sectional area near the second opening. When the cross-sectional area near the first opening is smaller than the cross-sectional area near the second opening, widening, i.e., an increase in cross-sectional area, occurs. This applies to both the parts of the pipette tip and the transition area.

[0053] The interior or wall portions of a pipette tip have axial expansion and, optionally, radial expansion. That is, the interior or wall portions of a pipette tip have dimensions along the axial direction and, optionally, radial direction. Transition areas within the interior or wall of a pipette tip can also have axial and / or radial expansion. However, these can also be designed as continuous transitions without axial / radial expansion, such as edges, rims, or corners.

[0054] As mentioned above, if there is widening, i.e., cross-sectional expansion, when viewing the interior (through the upper opening towards the lower opening), then an undercut or back taper is present. The undercut may be a continuous transition with axial widening, or a continuous transition without axial widening. One pipette tip according to the present invention comprises a wall defining an internal space, a first opening, i.e., an upper opening, and a second opening, i.e., a lower opening, located at the upper and lower ends of the internal space, respectively, a first portion near the upper opening, a second portion near the first portion, a third portion near the second portion, a fourth portion near the third portion, a fifth portion near the fourth portion that opens toward the lower opening, a first transition region between the first and second portions, a second transition region between the second and third portions, and a third transition area between the third and fourth portions, wherein the diameter of the upper opening is larger than the diameter of the lower opening, and the internal space has at least a partially cylindrical and / or tapered portion and / or a transition area extending from the top to the bottom.

[0055] The internal space may optionally have at least one section and / or one transition area that widens from top to bottom so as to form an undercut.

[0056] Figures 1A and 1B show a first embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding container 1 according to the present invention.

[0057] Container 1 has a housing member 2, which has four wall elements 21, 22, 23, 24 aligned almost vertically and a base surface 20. In addition, container 1 has a holding member 3, which has a first area 30 having multiple (72) first receiving positions and locations 30.1, 30.2, 30.3, ..., 30.72 (corresponding to symbols A1 to F12) for a first type of specimen container and / or pipette tip, and a second area 31 having multiple (24) second receiving positions and locations 31.1, 31.2, 31.3, ..., 31.24 (corresponding to symbols G1 to H12) for a second type of specimen container and / or pipette tip. The rows of the first and second receiving positions extending along the longitudinal direction of container 1, i.e., horizontally in Figure 1B, are referred to as horizontal rows, and the rows extending along the short direction of container 1, i.e., vertically, are referred to as vertical rows.

[0058] For example, the first receiving locations 30.1, ..., 30.72 can be made suitable for receiving containers equivalent to microtiter plates. These containers may be inserted individually into separate first receiving positions and locations, or they may be segmented into strips, for example, six containers arranged in series, and these containers may be inserted into the first receiving locations 30.1, 30.13, 30.25, 30.37, 30.49, 30.61, or the containers may be connected in two dimensions to form a planar element (array), for example, an element consisting of 2 × 2 = 4 connected containers, and this element may be inserted into the first receiving locations 30.11, 30.2, 30.23, and 30.24. The holding member 3 and these containers may be made of different materials. The containers may have the same and / or size, or different shapes and / or sizes, and / or may be made of the same material or different materials.

[0059] For example, the second receiving points 31.1, ..., 31.24 can be made suitable for receiving pipette tips. Pipette tips are usually individual and can be inserted into different second receiving points. The retaining members 3 and the pipette tips may be made of different materials. The pipette tips may be manufactured in the same shape and / or size or in different shapes and / or sizes, and / or in the same material or in different materials.

[0060] Container 1 can hold containers / wells and / or pipette tips required for a specific analytical program executed by an analytical robot, for example. The containers are placed in specific receiving locations within the first area 30 and filled with reagents required by the analytical program, if necessary. The pipette tips are placed in specific receiving locations within the second area. Using these, liquids can be transferred by the analytical robot as part of the analytical program. This makes it possible to transfer liquids between containers.

[0061] Container 1 is multifunctional in that it provides microtiter plates in the first area 30 and pipette tip trays in the second area 31.

[0062] The container 1 according to the present invention can be formed integrally with a tray having different receptacle areas 30, 31 or connecting them. Alternatively, the container 1 can be made into a modular design, that is, it can be assembled / combined from several parts. A first module can thus be provided with a first receptacle area 30, and a second module can form a second receptacle area 31. These modules are integrally joined along a dividing surface 4. This means that different modules can be combined depending on the intended application.

[0063] Some of the receiving locations and positions are for receiving containers, while others are for receiving pipette tips. Depending on the analysis program, these containers and pipette tips may have different geometric shapes, volumes, or materials, and will be filled with specific samples and reagents required by that analysis program. Such a kit, consisting of a container / tray / sample container / pipette tip, can then be loaded with the sample to be analyzed (e.g., blood) and inserted into a small analyzer. The analysis program can then be started.

[0064] In the following embodiments, corresponding features are indicated by the same reference numerals as in Figures 1A and 1B.

[0065] Figures 2A and 2B show a second embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding container 1 according to the present invention.

[0066] Container 1 has a housing member 2, which has four wall elements 21, 22, 23, 24 aligned almost vertically and a base 20. In addition, container 1 has a holding member 3, which has a first area 30 having multiple (48) first receiving positions 30.1, 30.2, 30.3, ..., 30.48 (corresponding to symbols A1~A6, B1~B6, ..., H1~H6) for a first type of specimen container and / or pipette tip, and a second area 31 having multiple (48) second receiving positions 31.1, 31.2, 31.3, ..., 31.48 (corresponding to symbols A7~A12, B7~B12, ..., H7~H12) for a second type of specimen container and / or pipette tip.

[0067] For example, the first receiving positions 30.1, ..., 30.48 can be made suitable for receiving containers / wells equivalent to microtiter plates. These containers may be the same shape and / or size, or different shapes and / or sizes, and / or made from the same material or different materials.

[0068] For example, the second receiving positions 31.1, ..., 31.48 can be made suitable for holding pipette tips. These pipette tips may be the same shape and / or size or different shapes and / or sizes, and / or made from the same material or different materials.

[0069] As described in the first embodiment, the container 1 can be equipped with, for example, containers and / or pipette tips required by a specific analysis program in an analytical robot.

[0070] In the kit having container 1 according to the present invention, trays for different tips (size / manufacturer) can be combined. The first tray can be placed in the first receiving area 30, and the second tray can be placed in the second receiving area 31. Conductive tips can coexist with non-conductive tips in the tray. First-size pipette tips can be placed in one tray, second-size pipette tips in another tray, and so on, and these trays can be placed in container 1.

[0071] Depending on the intended use, conventional microtiter plates may have multiple wells of the same size (e.g., 2 ml, 0.2 ml, etc.), such as 96 wells, 384 wells, etc. If different well sizes are required in a particular test, these different wells can be placed in separate areas 30 and 31. This means that areas 30 and 31 are adapted to hold one type of well (individual, strip-shaped, or array-shaped). This makes it possible to have wells (and pipette tips) of different sizes coexist in a single container 1.

[0072] In a modular design, modules composed of areas 30 and 31 can be separated, divided, or interconnected along connecting surfaces 4. Promising connection options include clamping and bonding. These modules may be made of different materials. For example, some modules may be made transparent to allow visual inspection / analysis, while others may be opaque.

[0073] In the second embodiment, for example, 48 receptacles can be allocated for pipette tips, and an additional 48 receptacles (microtiter plates) can be allocated for analysis vessels.

[0074] The kit can be processed using a planned liquid handling system, and users do not need to have specialized knowledge or experience in analytical theory.

[0075] Since the following embodiments are variations of the first and second embodiments, the features of the first and second embodiments can be incorporated into the variations described below.

[0076] Figures 3A and 3B show a third embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding container 1 according to the present invention. In contrast to the embodiments described above, the container 1 has 88 first-type receiving positions in the first area 30 and 8 second-type receiving positions in the second area 31.

[0077] Figures 4A and 4B show a fourth embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding container 1 according to the present invention. In contrast to the embodiments described above, the second area 31 of the container 1 is rectangular and occupies an area in the corner of the container 1 (as well as a section of the walls 22 and 23). There there are two separation surfaces or separation seams 41, 42 that are perpendicularly aligned to each other and are located between the first area 30 and the second area 31.

[0078] Within Area 2, Area 31, smaller receiving locations 31.1, ..., 31.48 are arranged four times more densely than within Area 1, Area 30. These smaller receiving locations are intended for containers with smaller volumes.

[0079] Figures 5A and 5B show a fifth embodiment of the container 1 according to the present invention, which holds a specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip according to the present invention. In contrast to the embodiments described above, the second area 31 of the container 1 is rectangular, occupies the central area of ​​the container 1, and is therefore surrounded by the first area 30.

[0080] The portion containing the second area 31 can be designed as a module and inserted into a corresponding recess within the portion containing the first area 30. Thus, there are four separation surfaces or separation joints 41, 42, 43, 44 that are aligned perpendicularly / parallel to each other and are located between the second area 31 and the first area 30.

[0081] Figures 6A and 6B show a sixth embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding container 1 according to the present invention. In contrast to the fifth embodiment, a second area 31 is provided that divides the first area 30 into an inner area 30i and an outer area 30a, and therefore the second area 31 is located between the inner area 30i and the outer area 30a. Accordingly, an outer separation seam 41 (rectangular in the plan view) and an inner separation seam 42 (rectangular in the plan view) are provided between areas 30a and 31 and between areas 31 and 30i, respectively.

[0082] Figures 7A and 7B show a seventh embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding container 1 according to the present invention. This embodiment generally corresponds to the second embodiment, but there are differences. In the seventh embodiment, there are only 12 (instead of 48) receiving positions (which are four times larger) within the second area.

[0083] Many analytical methods require the transfer of liquids between containers of different volumes. This type of liquid transfer is achieved by providing a configuration corresponding to or similar to the seventh embodiment, namely, a configuration in which a receiving position for type / size X1 is provided in a certain portion x1 of the total area of ​​the holding member 3, a receiving position for type / size X2 is provided in a further portion x2, and so on.

[0084] Figures 8A and 8B show an eighth embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip receiving container 1 according to the present invention. This embodiment generally corresponds to the fourth embodiment, but differs in that in the eighth embodiment, only two (four times) larger receptacles are provided in the second area (instead of 48).

[0085] Figures 9A and 9B show a ninth embodiment of the container 1 according to the present invention, which holds a specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip according to the present invention. This embodiment generally corresponds to the eighth embodiment, but differs in that in the ninth embodiment, two second areas 31a and 31b are provided corresponding to the one second area 31 in the eighth embodiment. These areas each have two receptacles 31.1 and 31.2, 31.3 and 31.4, which are located in the corners of the container, such as the corner between the first wall 21 and the second wall 22, and the corner between the second wall 22 and the third wall 23.

[0086] Figures 10A and 10B show a tenth embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding container 1 according to the present invention. This embodiment generally corresponds to the eighth embodiment, but differs in that the tenth embodiment has a second area 31 having six (four times) larger receptacles 31.1, ..., 31.6 arranged along a horizontal row. The first area 30 is divided by this horizontal row 31 into two first areas 30a and 30b.

[0087] Figures 11A and 11B show an eleventh embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding container 1 according to the present invention. This embodiment is a combination of the fourth and tenth embodiments, and is provided with a second area 31 according to the fourth embodiment and a third area 32 corresponding to the second area 31 of the tenth embodiment.

[0088] Figures 12A and 12B show a twelfth embodiment of the container 1 according to the present invention, which holds a specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip according to the present invention. This embodiment generally corresponds to the eleventh embodiment. However, in contrast to the eleventh embodiment, the second area 31 and the third area 32 are arranged as columns, i.e., vertical columns, that cross the long axis of the container 1. The second area 31 and the third area 32 are adjacent to each other. The third area 32 is also adjacent to the first area 30.

[0089] Figures 13A, 13B, and 13C show a thirteenth embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding container 1 according to the present invention. This embodiment generally corresponds to the first embodiment. However, in contrast to the first embodiment, the second area 31 is arranged in an L-shape along two edges (along walls 21 and 22). The second area 31 has receptacles, one of which has an area 16 times larger than the receptacle in the first area 30. As can be seen in Figure 13C, the bases of areas 30 and 31 may be closed or open depending on the application and intended use.

[0090] Figures 14A and 14B show a fourteenth embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding container 1 according to the present invention. This embodiment generally corresponds to the eighth embodiment. However, in contrast to the eighth embodiment, the first area 30 occupies a considerably smaller portion of the surface of the holding member 3 compared to the second area 31, and the sum of the surface areas of the 16 receiving positions in the first area 30 is equivalent in size to the area of ​​one receiving position in the second area 31.

[0091] Figures 15A and 15B show a fifteenth embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding container 1 according to the present invention. This embodiment generally corresponds to the embodiments described above. However, in this embodiment, the second area 31 is composed of three sub-areas 31a, 31b, and 31c, each of which has four receiving positions. Each of the sub-areas 31a, 31b, and 31c of the second holding area 31 is the same size as one receiving position in the first area 30. The three sub-areas 31a, 31b, and 31c may be arranged such that their diagonals coincide on a single straight line. The first holding area 30 is divided by the second receiving positions, and there are 3 and 18 receiving positions on the first and second sides, respectively, of the diagonal line along the arrangement of the sub-areas 31a, 31b, and 31c.

[0092] Figures 16A and 16B show a first embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding tray 5 according to the present invention.

[0093] The tray 5 has a carrier member 6, which has four side elements 61, 62, 63, and 64 and a support surface 60. By placing the support surface 60 on a container member (not shown), the tray 5 and the container member together can form a modular container 1 according to the above embodiments.

[0094] In addition, the tray 5 has a retaining member 3, which has a first area 30 having multiple (81) first receiving positions 30.1, 30.2, 30.3, ..., 30.81 for a first type of specimen container and / or pipette tip, and a second area 31 having multiple (15) second receiving positions 31.1, 31.2, 31.3, ..., 31.15 for a second type of specimen container and / or pipette tip, as described in relation to the container 1 according to the present invention.

[0095] For example, the first receiving positions / locations 30.1, ..., 30.81 can be made suitable for receiving containers equivalent to microtiter plates. These containers can be inserted individually into different first receiving positions, or they can be segmented, i.e., the containers can be connected in a strip-like or two-dimensional planar element shape to form, for example, an element with 2 × 2 = 4 containers. The holding member 3 and these containers may be made of different materials. The containers may be the same shape and / or size or different shapes and / or sizes, and / or may be made of the same material or different materials. The containers can be permanently connected to the receiving positions, or they may be formed together with the tray 5 as a single piece (integrally).

[0096] For example, the second receiving positions 31.1, ..., 31.15 can be made suitable for holding pipette tips. Pipette tips are usually supplied individually and can be inserted into different second receiving positions. The retaining members 3 and the pipette tips may be made of different materials. The pipette tips may have the same shape and / or size or different shapes and / or sizes, and / or may be made of the same material or different materials.

[0097] Tray 5 can accommodate containers and / or pipette tips required for a specific analytical program, which may be executed by an analytical robot. The containers are placed in specific receiving locations within the first area 30 and, if necessary, filled with reagents required by the analytical program. The pipette tips are placed in specific receiving locations in the second area. These can be used to transfer liquids as part of the analytical program, operated by the analytical robot. These pipette tips enable the transfer of liquids between containers.

[0098] The kit including the tray according to the present invention is multifunctional in that it combines the microtita plate with specimen wells in the first receptacle area 30 and pipette tips in the second receptacle area 31.

[0099] Some of the receiving locations are therefore for containers, and others are for pipette tips. These containers can be collected in tray 5, for example, at the receiving location in area 1 30. Depending on the analysis program, these containers and pipette tips may have different geometric shapes, different volumes, different materials, etc., and may be filled with specific reagents. Such kits can then be loaded with the analyte (e.g., blood) and inserted into a small analyzer. The analysis program can then be started.

[0100] In the following embodiments, corresponding features are indicated by the same reference numerals as those in Figures 16A and 16B.

[0101] Figures 17A and 17B show a second embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding tray 5 according to the present invention. In contrast to the above embodiment, the holding member 3 provided in the tray 5 has a first area 30 having a plurality of (66) first receiving positions for a first type of specimen container and / or pipette tip, a second area 31 having a plurality of (15) second receiving positions for a second type of specimen container and / or pipette tip, and a third area 32 having a plurality of (15) third receiving positions for a third type of specimen container and / or pipette tip.

[0102] The second area 31 and the third area 32 are each arranged at the corners of the holding member 3 as a 3x5 array of receiving positions.

[0103] Figures 18A and 18B show a third embodiment of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip receiving tray 5 according to the present invention. In contrast to the tray of the first embodiment shown in Figures 16A and 16B, the holding member 3 provided in the tray 5 has a first area 30 having a plurality of (56) first receiving positions for a first type of specimen container and / or pipette tip, and a second area 31 having a plurality of (40) second receiving positions for a second type of specimen container and / or pipette tip. Areas 30 and 31 are each located on one side of the holding member 3. They are separated by a (virtual or physical) separation surface 4.

[0104] Figures 19A and 19B show a first embodiment of the combination of the aforementioned specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip receiving tray 5 and housing according to the present invention.

[0105] The housing, like the container 1 described above, has a housing member 2 having four wall elements 21, 22, 23, and 24 aligned almost vertically and a base 20. The housing also has a central upper opening on which the tray 5 is placed. The housing can optionally be provided with a holding member, as described in relation to the container 1 according to the present invention, instead of its central opening.

[0106] Tray 5 can essentially be configured as tray 5 in the first embodiment (Figures 16A and 16B).

[0107] Figures 20A and 20B show a second embodiment of the combination of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip holding tray 5 and housing according to the present invention. In contrast to the above embodiment, the tray 5 is configured as shown and described in Figures 17A and 17B.

[0108] Figures 21A and 21B show a third embodiment of the combination of the specimen container (well) and / or pipette tip receiving tray 5 and housing according to the present invention. In contrast to the above embodiment, the tray 5 is configured as shown and described in Figures 18A and 18B.

[0109] Figures 22A and 22B show one embodiment of the modular tray 5 for holding specimen containers (wells) and / or pipette tips according to the present invention. In this embodiment, two areas 30 and 31 are provided for holding specimen containers (wells) and / or pipette tips. Figure 22A shows the modules 30 and 31 of the tray 5 separated from each other, and Figure 22B shows the assembled tray 5.

[0110] Guide and / or fastening elements can be provided on the dividing surface 4 between modules 30 and 31, thereby allowing the modules to be specifically assembled and fixed to each other. In this way, different deformable objects can be connected to one another. With this purpose in mind, locking elements, clamping elements, dovetail guides, guide elements, locking nubs, etc., can be provided near the dividing surface 4 of the individual modules 30 and 31 (usually located on the side). In this embodiment, as can be seen from the detailed enlarged view in Figure 22C, a dovetail guide 400 is used as an example.

[0111] As described above, the principles of modular subdivision and assembly can be applied to other arrangements of various areas 30, 31, and 32 of the container 1 and tray 5 according to the present invention.

[0112] Each of the containers 1 and trays 5 according to the present invention can be designed as a single piece, or, for example, in the modular form described above, that is, in a form assembled / composed of several parts. That is, the first module can be equipped with a first receiving area 30, the second module can be equipped with a second receiving area 31, and so on. These modules are integrally connected along one or more dividing surfaces 4. This makes it possible to combine different modules depending on the intended use.

[0113] The materials of individual modules 30, 31, and 32 may be the same or different, depending on their intended use as specimen container holders or pipette tip holders.

[0114] All receptacle positions may have a support edge that supports a corresponding protrusion or vane provided on the outside of the container or pipette tip, making it compatible with a specific type / size of receptacle position, and which defines the receptacle opening. The opening may be limited by a sleeve having a specific axial length.

[0115] By selecting a suitable arrangement consisting of various types or sizes of receptacles, for example, a planned analytical procedure in an analytical robot can be optimized in terms of procedure time and reliability by reducing the distance involved in handling pipette tips and sample containers.

Claims

1. A device (1, 5) for holding specimen containers and / or pipette tips, The holding member (3) comprises at least one first receiving position (30) and at least one second receiving position (31), and each of the first receiving position (30) and the second receiving position (31) is configured to accept one of a specimen container and a pipette tip. A specimen container and / or pipette tip holder having different configurations for at least one first receiving position (30) and at least one second receiving position (31).

2. A specimen container and / or pipette tip holding device (1, 5) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first receiving position (30) and the at least one second receiving position (31) are designed to accept various containers and / or various pipette tips, and / or to accept a specimen container in at least one receiving position and a pipette tip in at least one receiving position.

3. A specimen container and / or pipette tip holding device (1, 5) according to claim 1, wherein the holding member (3) has a plate-shaped holding surface, and the first receiving position (30) and the second receiving position (31) are designed as openings in the holding member (3).

4. A specimen container and / or pipette tip holding device (1, 5) according to claim 3, wherein the opening of the first receiving position (30) has a different diameter from the opening of the second receiving position (31).

5. A specimen container and / or pipette tip holder (1, 5) according to claim 3, wherein each of the first receiving position (30) and the second receiving position (31) has a margin region defining its own opening, and the margin region of the first receiving position (30) and the margin region of the second receiving position (31) have different designs from each other.

6. A specimen container and / or pipette tip holding device (1, 5) according to claim 1, wherein the holding member (3) has an arrangement of at least one first area (30) having at least one first receiving position, and at least one second area (31) having at least one second receiving position.

7. A specimen container and / or pipette tip holder (1, 5) according to claim 6, wherein an integrated modular area is formed by the first area (30) and the second area (31).

8. A specimen container and / or pipette tip holder (1, 5) according to claim 6, wherein the holding member (3) is substantially composed of the first area (30) and the second area (31) which are located in close proximity to each other, or the first area (30) and the second area (31) are designed as separate modules.

9. A specimen container and / or pipette tip holder (1, 5) according to claim 8, wherein the first area (30) and the second area (31), which are designed as separate modules, can be integrally joined and / or mutually fastened.

10. A specimen container and / or pipette tip holder (1, 5) according to claim 9, wherein the first area (30) and the second area (31) have guide and / or fastening elements (400).

11. The apparatus according to claim 1, the apparatus designed as a container (1) comprising a housing member (2) and a holding member (3) disposed on the housing member (2).

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, the apparatus designed as a tray (5).

13. A combination device comprising the apparatus described in claim 12 and the housing member (2), wherein the tray (5) is arranged on the housing member (2).

14. It is a kit, The apparatus (1, 5) described in claim 1, A specimen container and / or pipette tip used in a prescribed analysis program, A kit that includes the following:

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