Adapters and rails for handling liquids, and methods thereof.

Abstract

This invention provides a pipette rack that offers flexibility and adjustability, useful when using multiple types of electronic pipettes. [Solution] An adapter 103 for holding pipettes 901, 902, wherein the adapter includes a body element configured to hold the pipettes, the adapter is configured to be attached to at least one rail 101 at any point on the rail, the at least one rail includes at least one electrical conductor, the electrical conductor extends at least partially along the length of the at least one rail.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure provides an attachment solution for devices such as pipettes, particularly in the field of liquid handling. More specifically, the present disclosure provides an attachment system for flexibly adjusting an electronic pipette on a rail and along the rail.

Background Art

[0002] In a laboratory or similar scientific or industrial environment, it is beneficial to have readily available liquid handling devices for routine or highly accurate work. The rechargeable battery of an electronic pipette is typically charged by placing the pipette on a charging rack. Such a charging rack is typically designed for a specific pipette model and shape, or for a limited number of pipettes and pipette models. Due to the various pipette shapes and the positions of the charging contacts, specific requirements and limitations are set regarding the applicable and suitable pipette models, as well as the number of pipettes on the charging rack. When used in a laboratory, for example, a pipette rack with flexibility and adjustability may be required when using multiple types of pipettes.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention is defined by the features of the independent claims. Some specific embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0004] A first aspect of the present invention is an adapter for holding a pipette, wherein the adapter - a body element configured to hold a pipette and The adapter is configured to be attached to the rail at any point on the rail, the rail includes at least one electrical conductor, and the electrical conductor extends at least partially along the length of the rail, the adapter That is the case.

[0005] A second aspect of the present invention is: A rail for holding at least one pipette, The aforementioned rail is - At least one electrical conductor, the electrical conductor extending at least partially along the length of the rail, Includes, The rail is configured such that at least one adapter, which includes a body element configured to hold a pipette, can be attached at any point along the rail. The rail comprises at least one connector element, which is configured to be attached to a connector element attached to at least one of a wall mount, a support leg, or a second rail. That is the case.

[0006] A third aspect of the present invention is: It is a system, Adapter of the first embodiment, Rail of the second embodiment, Includes, The adapter is optionally attached to the rail, system That is the case.

[0007] In further embodiments of the first or third aspect, The adapter includes a charging element, The adapter is configured to connect the charging element to the at least one electrical conductor of the at least one rail when it is attached to the at least one rail. The charging element includes at least one of an electrical contact, a wire, or a coil configured for wireless charging. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1A] The following are examples of pipette rack configurations according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 1B] The following are examples of pipette rack configurations according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 1C] The following are examples of pipette rack configurations according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2A] The following are examples of pipette rack configurations according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2B] The following are examples of pipette rack configurations according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2C] The following are examples of pipette rack configurations according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3A] The following shows an exemplary rail shape according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3B] The following shows an exemplary rail shape according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3C] The following shows an exemplary rail shape according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3D] The following shows an exemplary rail shape according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4A] The following are exemplary adapters according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4B] The following are exemplary adapters according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4C] The following are exemplary adapters according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4D] The following are exemplary adapters according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4E]An exemplary adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown. [Figure 4F] An exemplary adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown. [Figure 5A] An exemplary rail and adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention are shown. [Figure 5B] An exemplary rail and adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention are shown. [Figure 5C] An exemplary rail and adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention are shown. [Figure 6A] An exemplary rail and adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention are shown. [Figure 6B] An exemplary rail and adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention are shown. [Figure 6C] An exemplary rail and adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention are shown. [Figure 7A] An exemplary rail and adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention are shown. [Figure 7B] An exemplary rail and adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention are shown. [Figure 7C] An exemplary rail and adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention are shown. [Figure 8A] An example of a pipette rack configuration and an adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown. [Figure 8B] An example of a pipette rack configuration and an adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown. [Figure 8C] An example of a pipette rack configuration and an adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown. [Figure 9A] An example of a pipette rack configuration and an adapter according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown. [Figure 9B]Examples of pipette rack configurations and adapters according to at least some embodiments of the present invention are shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Embodiments of this disclosure provide at least one of adapters and rails usable for handling liquids, as well as a method and use thereof. More specifically, the disclosure enables easy mounting of liquid handling devices, such as electronic pipettes or mechanical pipettes, to a rail, and allows for quick mounting, repositioning, and removal of such pipettes. At least some of these objectives can be achieved by using adapters. Furthermore, at least some embodiments of this disclosure improve the opportunities for positioning pipettes via rail-mountable adapters. Each adapter disclosed herein is, for example, suitable for mounting electronic pipettes on a rail. These adapters can provide the ability to charge and / or communicate data to the mounted pipette. Each rail disclosed herein may be extendable and may be mountable to connector elements. The rail may, for example, be capable of charging electronic pipettes from the rail via an adapter.

[0010] As used in the context of this disclosure, the term “pipette” (pipet, pipet, or pipettor) is understood to mean a liquid medium dispenser and a liquid handling device capable of collecting and transferring a measured volume of liquid. Typically, a pipette includes a plunger, a body, a tip holder, a disposable / removable pipette tip, a tip release button, and a mechanism for liquid volume displacement and volume adjustment. Such a pipette may be, for example, a single-channel pipette or a multi-channel pipette. A pipette may be capable of dispensing volumes of less than approximately 1000 μl (microliters) and is often called a micropipette.

[0011] Embodiments of this disclosure are suitable for use with single-channel pipettes, multi-channel pipettes, or other types of pipettes. These embodiments are suitable for both mechanical pipettes and electronic pipettes, as will be further described in this disclosure.

[0012] Typically, the shape of the pipette body may be such that it can be detachably attached to a holder such as a rack, rod, or pole. Such a “attachment part” may be a molded projection or attachment hook at the plunger end of the pipette. Using the attachment part, the pipette can be hung, for example, on a pipette rack.

[0013] As used in the context of this disclosure, the term “electronic pipette” is understood to mean a pipette, such as a micropipette, which includes at least one electronic component, e.g., an electric motor, as the primary actuator for displacing, collecting, and / or transferring liquid volume. An electronic pipette may include an electrically activated pipetting device. Thus, an electronic pipette typically requires charging, e.g., charging of a battery connected to or contained within the pipette. Such an “electronic pipette” may include charging contacts for charging. In at least some embodiments, the electrical contacts can be used for data transfer. Alternatively, charging and / or data transfer can be performed, e.g., using electromagnetic induction between an adapter coil and an electronic pipette coil. An example of an electronic pipette is the Sartorius Picus 2 Electronic Single Channel Pipette (product number LH-747021).

[0014] As used in the context of this disclosure, the term “mechanical pipette” is understood to refer to pipettes, such as micropipettes, that do not have electronic components as the primary solution for displacing, collecting, and / or transferring liquid volumes. Generally, such pipettes do not need to be electrically charged, or are rarely charged. An example of a mechanical pipette is the Sartorius Tacta Mechanical Pipette, Single Channel (product number LH-729010).

[0015] A “rack,” or “pipette rack,” is understood to be a holder for pipettes, such as electronic pipettes or mechanical pipettes. For example, when a pipette is not in use, the pipette may be removablely attached to the holder. A “linear pipette rack” typically includes a rod or bar on which pipettes, such as micropipettes, can be placed. Such a rod or bar is typically linear, i.e., substantially elongated, and can hold, or “hang,” several pipettes having suitable, substantially complementary shapes, typically at least some of which are attached, i.e., “hang” via its body.

[0016] In this disclosure, several elements, parts, modules, or assemblies are attached to one another. Such attachments can be facilitated by using any one of the following solutions individually or in combination: namely, mechanical hinges, mechanical joints, adhesives, hook and loop fasteners, screws, bolts, clasps, locks, nails, snap fasteners, pins, snap fasteners, spring elements such as ball plungers, cable ties, magnets, and electromagnets. In particular, rails can be attached to other rails, or to bases or pedestals, such as wall mounts.

[0017] Some embodiments may include a cushion, which may also be called a buffer element. Suitable materials for the cushion include elastomers, such as silicone, SEBS, and TPU. The cushion may be deformable, for example, elastically deformable. The cushion may have a different coefficient of friction than the rail material. For example, the cushion material may be selected such that a pipette or adapter (at least partially) placed on the rail via the cushion can slide along the rail. The cushion may be formed from an elongated cushion material. The cushion may be attached to the rail via any suitable mounting means, for example, by adhesive.

[0018] The materials of each part of the Disclosure, for example, the rails and / or adapters, may be aluminum, iron, titanium, steel, alloy steel, bearing steel, stainless steel, or any combination or alloy thereof. An example of a material suitable for use in the context of the Disclosure is 6082-T6 aluminum, which may be anodized. Such materials are suitable for laboratory use and have high specific strength. In addition, plastics can be used. In exemplary embodiments, the system may include non-metallic parts, for example, the rails and / or adapters may be mostly non-metallic in order to avoid metal contamination in the laboratory environment. In such embodiments, robust plastics such as glass fiber reinforced plastics, carbon fiber reinforced plastics, or polyetheretherketone (PEEK) can be used. One advantage of avoiding metal in embodiments is that, in addition to reducing the possibility of metal contamination in the laboratory environment, it minimizes the risk of electrical short circuits in the electrical components of each apparatus and component described in the Disclosure.

[0019] Embodiments of this disclosure provide at least one of an adapter and a rail, as well as a method of using the same. Such an adapter may be mountable to a rail by complementary cross-sectional outline and / or shape. Typically, the adapter has a shape complementary to a model, type, and / or shape of a pipette, and the pipette is removablely mountable to the adapter. That is, the adapter may be configured to fit a particular pipette. Alternatively, for example, the adapter may be configured to fit a pipette selected from a plurality of pipettes.

[0020] At least some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a rail on which mechanical pipettes and electronic pipettes can be mounted via adapters. The rail includes an electrical conductor, which extends at least partially along the longitudinal direction of the rail. An electronic pipette can be charged via an adapter on the rail having a shape substantially complementary to the shape of the adapter.

[0021] In at least some embodiments of this disclosure, a suitable adapter may be mounted on and / or positioned on a rail. A charging current may be supplied from the rail to an electronic pipette connected to the adapter. The current may be supplied through at least one electrical contact, for example, a charging contact on the rail, a contact on the electronic pipette, and a charging contact on the adapter between them. Thus, the electronic pipette can be charged via the adapter and the rail.

[0022] In some embodiments, an adapter suitable for an electronic pipette includes a body element. At least a portion of the shape of this body element may allow the body of a desired electronic pipette to be detachably attached to the body element, thereby holding the pipette in a predetermined position relative to the adapter. In some embodiments, the shape of the body element allows the pipette to be partially inserted into the adapter. The adapter is also mountable to a rail having a shape complementary to the shape of the body element of the adapter. The adapter may include one or more charging contacts electrically connected to electrical conductors of the rail.

[0023] In some embodiments, the adapter may further include a charging element. Such a charging element may include charging contacts that can be electrically attached to the corresponding charging contacts of the electronic pipette. The charging element may have a wireless charging function using electromagnetic induction between the adapter and the electronic pipette. In some embodiments, the charging element may include an instrument transformer or a battery charger that modifies the charging current provided by the rail to be suitable as the current for the electronic pipette attached to the adapter. In some embodiments, the adapter provides an unmodified charging current from the electrical contacts of the attached rail to the electronic pipette.

[0024] In some embodiments, the adapter includes a locking mechanism including a spring element, and the adapter is detachably mounted to and / or slidable along the rail.

[0025] In some embodiments, the adapter is configured to be movable along a rail with frictional resistance, for example, the friction is generated by a spring element within the adapter. For example, the spring element within the adapter may be configured to adjust the interference fit between the adapter and the rail. Such a spring element may be made of a spring or a flexible and / or elastic material, for example, by interference fit or by pressing the member against the rail, to provide sufficient static friction to firmly mount the adapter to the rail. The static friction between the rail and the adapter may correspond to a force of, for example, 5N to 40N, preferably 10N (Newtons). The friction should be such that the adapter is not unintentionally movable along the mounted rail, but is movable by overcoming the friction if desired. Additionally or alternatively, the adapter may include a spring-moved charging contact, the connection between the electrical contact and the electrical conductor of the rail can be secured by the force exerted by the spring element.

[0026] In some embodiments, the adapter is adjustable in position to the adapter and the attached pipette. In some embodiments, the adapter may be removablely mounted to a rail so as to be movable and / or slidable along the rail. In some other embodiments, the adapter may include a locking mechanism. This locking mechanism may, in a “locked” position, lock the mounting adapter in a predetermined position on the rail, and in other positions (“unlocked” position), unlock the adapter from the rail so as to be movable along the rail. Thus, such an adapter may be in a stationary position (relative to the rail to which the adapter is mounted) when in the “locked position.” The adapter may be slidably movable along the rail when in the “unlocked position.” Additionally or alternatively, such a locking mechanism may be configured such that the adapter has a “removed position” to be removable from the rail, and / or an “mounted position” to be mounted on the rail. In some embodiments, the “unlocked position” may further include the “removed position” and / or the “mounted position.”

[0027] One advantage of the movable adapter is that, for example, when using different types of pipettes, the working environment can be quickly reconfigured. For example, multi-channel pipettes may be wider than single-channel pipettes and may consequently require more space. That is, some pipettes may occupy more space along the rail. By using a movable adapter, the adapter can be moved further away to accommodate pipettes of various sizes while still allowing pipettes to be recharged when needed. Also, for mechanical pipettes, the rail configuration may allow pipettes to be placed and moved directly on the rail. This provides even more options for the user. Each embodiment disclosed herein can hold multiple different types of pipettes along the length of the rail, either via the adapter or by other means.

[0028] In at least some embodiments, a rail is provided that is substantially complementary to at least a portion of the shape of the adapter. The rail includes at least one electrical conductor, which is configured to provide a charging current to an electronic pipette via the adapter, thereby enabling the electronic pipette to be charged. If the rail is made of a conductive material, the electrical conductor is provided away from the material. For example, in the case of an aluminum rail, a flat cable can be provided in the internal void of the rail. The conductive rail material may be used as a ground plane for charging or communication purposes.

[0029] For example, as seen in Figures 3A to 3D and Figure 5C, the rail typically includes at least one side wall, which forms the rail's outer shape. The rail may further include at least one internal void. The cross-sectional shape of the rail is substantially complementary to the cross-sectional shape of the adapter, or a part thereof, and the adapter is removablely mountable to the rail, and the charging contacts of the adapter are removablely mountable to at least one electrical conductor of the rail, e.g., the charging contacts. In a beneficial embodiment, the rail is elongated and substantially linear, and the adapter and / or pipette is movable and / or slidable along the rail. Such an embodiment allows for better positioning of each adapter, thereby enabling each pipette to be positioned in a desired location.

[0030] In some embodiments, a mechanical pipette may be directly mounted on the rail. Conversely, adapters in some embodiments may also be mountable on mechanical pipettes. In some further embodiments for mechanical pipettes, charging contacts on the mounting adapter can be omitted, both for the pipette and for the rack. Furthermore, in some embodiments, an adapter suitable for an electronic pipette may also be suitable for a mechanical pipette. Each embodiment described is beneficial because mechanical pipettes and electronic pipettes do not necessarily require separate rails or racks, i.e., retainers, and multiple different types of such pipettes can be mounted on the same rail and / or on the same type of rail shape. Since various pipette-specific adapters can be applied to the same rail, at least some embodiments of this disclosure have an advantage in terms of the variety of pipette types available along such rails.

[0031] In some embodiments, the rail may include an elongated electrical conductor such that the rail contacts of an adapter can be continuously mounted on the rail, for example, to charge an electronic pipette attached to the adapter. That is, contact between the rail contacts and the elongated conductor is maintained when the adapter is moved along the rail. One advantage of such an elongated electrical conductor in such a rail is that the electrical connection between the adapter and the rail is not interrupted when the position of the adapter is changed. This makes it easier to adjust the position of the adapter and the pipette to which it is detachably attached. The elongated electrical conductor may be configured to receive electricity from a battery or from an external power source, such as a commercial power source.

[0032] The rail can be attached or secured to, for example, a pipette rack, wall mount, support leg, or second rail by using any one of the following means individually or in combination: namely, mechanical fittings, adhesives, hook-and-loop fasteners, screws, bolts, clasps, locks, nails, snap fasteners, cable ties, magnets, or electromagnets. In addition, the rail may be manufactured directly as part of the device to which it is attached. An end cap may be configured to secure or electrically connect the rail to a second element, such as a second rail. The end cap is configured to be attached to the end of the rail. The end cap may include at least one connecting element, which includes a mechanical connector and an electrical connector and is configured to form at least one connection with a corresponding element.

[0033] The rail and / or adapter may include ports (also called connectors), such as sockets or through-holes for wires. Such ports can be used for unidirectional, bidirectional, or peer-to-peer transmission of at least one of the following: power, communications, control signals, or diagnostic information. The ports may be located on the elongated surface of the rail or on the end face of the rail. The end caps of the rail may include at least one port. Cables may be routed within the rail. Using cables instead of wireless transmission offers the advantage of simpler, faster, and more robust signal transmission.

[0034] In at least some embodiments, the at least one rail includes a communication bus. One or more adapters according to this disclosure may be configured to use the communication bus of the rail. Additionally or alternatively, the adapter and / or rail may be configured to connect a pipette to the communication bus. Preferred communication buses may include at least one of the following: CANBUS, CAN-FD, RS-485, Ethernet, Universal Serial Bus, EtherCAT, USB, WLAN, Bluetooth, and RFID communication.

[0035] Figures 1A, 1B, and 1C show examples of pipette rack configurations according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 1A, a pipette rack configuration 100 is shown including a rail 101. The pipette rack configuration may further include an end cap 102 for the rail and a pipette adapter 103. The end cap 102 is removable from the rail 101. The pipette rack configuration may include a mechanical pipette 901 and / or an electronic pipette 902, which are illustrated for illustrative purposes. The rail 101 is shaped complementary to at least a portion of the shape of the mechanical pipette 901, thereby allowing the pipette 901 to be placed on the rail 101. The adapter 103 is shaped complementary to the electronic pipette 902. The adapter 103 is also shaped complementary to the rail 101, thereby allowing the pipette 902 to be placed on the rail 101 by using the adapter.

[0036] Figure 1B shows a top view of configuration 100. As can be seen from Figures 1A to 1C, the mechanical pipette 901 can be detachably mounted on the rail 101 without an adapter. That is, the rail 101 holds the mechanical pipette 901, and an adapter 103 attached to the rail 101 holds the electronic pipette 902. As seen on the left side of the rail 101, the dotted line on the rail 101 indicates that the rail can be extended indefinitely in that direction.

[0037] Figure 1C shows an enlarged view of Figure 1B. In Figure 1C, it can be seen that the adapter 103 includes adapter electrical contacts 104. The adapter electrical contacts are positioned to contact the pipette contacts 903 when the pipette 902 is placed inside the adapter 103. The rail 101 may include an elongated electrical conductor (not shown). The elongated conductor may be located inside the rail or on the surface of the rail. The adapter 103 is positioned to connect the elongated conductor to the adapter contacts 104, thereby providing an electrical connection from the elongated conductor to the pipette. This electrical connection makes it possible to charge the pipette and / or communicate with the pipette.

[0038] Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C show pipette rack configurations according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. In Figure 2A, a pipette rack configuration 200 is shown including a rail 201. The pipette rack configuration may further include a pipette adapter 203. End caps (not shown) may be positioned on the ends of the rail 201. The pipette rack configuration may include a mechanical pipette 901 and / or an electronic pipette 902, illustrated for illustrative purposes. The rail 201 is shaped complementary to at least a portion of the shape of the mechanical pipette 901, thereby allowing the pipette 901 to be positioned on the rail 201. As seen in the figure, this is achieved by utilizing the handle shape of the pipette 901. The adapter 203 is shaped complementary to the electronic pipette 902. The adapter 203 is also shaped complementary to the rail 101, thereby allowing the pipette 902 to be positioned on the rail 201 by using the adapter. In the diagram, pipette 902 is detachably positioned on adapter 203.

[0039] The rail 201 may include an elongated electrical conductor (not shown). The elongated conductor may be located within the rail or on the surface of the rail. The adapter 203 is positioned to connect the elongated conductor to adapter contacts, thereby providing an electrical connection from the elongated conductor to the pipette 902. This electrical connection makes it possible to charge the pipette 902 and / or communicate with the pipette 902.

[0040] Figure 2B shows a pipette rack configuration 210 including a rail 201 and a pipette adapter 203. Although a mechanical pipette is not shown, the rail 201 is shaped complementary to at least part of the shape of the mechanical pipette 901, thereby allowing the pipette 901 to be placed on the rail 201. The adapter 203 is shaped complementary to the electronic pipette 902. The adapter 203 is also shaped complementary to the rail 201, thereby allowing the pipette 902 to be placed on the rail 201 by using the adapter. In the figure, the adapter 203 is detachably attached to the rail 201. Configuration 210 is the same as configuration 200 as described above.

[0041] In Figure 2C, a pipette rack configuration 220 is shown, including a rail 223 and pipette adapters 221 and 222. Although pipettes are not shown, the rail 223 may be shaped complementary to at least a portion of the shape of a mechanical pipette. Adapters 221 and 222 may be shaped complementary to an electronic pipette. Each adapter is shaped complementary to the rail 223, so that by using the adapters, pipettes can be placed on the rail 223. In the figure, adapters 221 and 222 are detachably attached to the rail 223.

[0042] The configuration in Figure 2C shows that, in this embodiment, the adapter can be positioned on either side of the rail. That is, when viewed from the end of the rail, the adapter can be positioned on either the left or right side of the rail. Such a configuration provides greater flexibility when configuring the workspace. Furthermore, it can save space because pipettes can be positioned on both sides of the rail, which in some cases can shorten the length of the rail. To enable positioning on either side, at least one of the following can be used, for example, a symmetrical rail shape or having multiple conductive elements arranged to facilitate mounting from both sides.

[0043] Figures 3A to 3D show schematic cross-sections of several rail outlines relating to this disclosure. Figure 3A shows a rail 301 having a top opening 310 and a bottom opening 310. The openings 310 are arbitrary gaps in the rail cross-section that allow access to the internal gaps of the rail. Since cables such as power cables are typically placed in these gaps, it is convenient to be able to access them. Each of the openings may be provided continuously along the entire length of the rail, or may be arranged periodically along the length. Such openings may be covered by a cover made of a secondary material. Rail 301 further shows that the rail may include curved shapes (such as at the top of the rail) or right-angled shapes (such as at the bottom of the rail).

[0044] Figure 3B shows a rectangular rail 302. The rail 302 includes four grooves 311. The grooves 311 and other grooves can have various shapes, such as the T-shaped grooves shown in the figure.

[0045] Figure 3C shows the rail 303. This rail has an opening 310 in the upper part of its cross-section and two grooves 311 in the lower part. There is also a recess on the bottom surface of the rail.

[0046] Figure 3D shows a rail 304. The rail 304 has grooves 311 in its side walls. Also, as shown in the figure, its top and bottom surfaces are open. As a result, each opening 310 may be narrow at the top and widen towards the interior, and / or each surface of the opening may be located at a different distance from the interior.

[0047] As shown in Figures 3A to 3D, several different rail shapes are available within the context of this disclosure. For any given rail shape, a suitable adapter is required to form the desired connection between the rail and the pipette.

[0048] Figures 4A to 4F show schematic cross-sections of several adapters according to the present disclosure. Figure 4A shows adapter 351. This figure focuses on the portion that connects to the rail. At least a portion of the rail is located within the adapter. The pipette is attached to the front of the adapter (indicated by reference numeral 352) using a suitable adapter portion or by configuring the adapter body to fit the pipette. Adapter 351 includes an upper part 353 and a lower part 354 having a curved shape. The lower part includes electrical contacts 358. These charging contacts may be connected to an electrical connector within the adapter to transmit electrical signals from the contacts to the pipette, using other contacts (not shown) positioned to contact the pipette.

[0049] The adapter 351 further includes an optional adjustment knob 355. The adjustment knob 355 may be, for example, a retractable spring plunger or a threaded stud knob. As shown by the dotted arrow in Figure 4A, moving the knob 355 in a first direction, for example counterclockwise, causes the lower part 354 to move away from the upper part 353, allowing the adapter to be mounted to the rail. Moving the knob 355 in a second direction causes the lower part 354 to move toward the upper part 353, allowing it to fit nicely to the rail. The lower part 354 may extend into the upper part 353 (not shown) to enable the aforementioned movement. The knob 355 may be used to adjust the tightness of the fit (interference fit) between the adapter and the rail.

[0050] If the adapter 351 is not provided with a knob 355, the adapter may be configured so that the user can remove it from the rail by pulling part 354 downward. In response to such pulling, a spring in the upper part 353 allows the distance between part 353 and part 354 to increase, and the user can remove the adapter by further pulling the lower part 354 away from the rail.

[0051] Figure 4B shows an adapter 361 similar to adapter 351. At least a portion of the rail is positioned within the adapter. The pipette is attached to the front of the adapter (indicated by reference numeral 362) using a suitable adapter portion or by configuring the adapter body to fit the pipette. In adapter 361, the contact 368 is located in the clamp portion, which can be moved by a knob mechanism 365. When the contact is moved upward, the upper portion 363, which is fixedly attached to the lower portion 364, is "pulled" downward, and in this case, also fits nicely into the rail. In this case as well, the knob 365 may be used to adjust the tightness of the fit between the adapter and the rail.

[0052] Figure 4C shows adapter 371. At least a portion of the rail is positioned within the adapter. The pipette is attached to the front of the adapter (indicated by reference numeral 372) using a suitable adapter portion or by configuring the adapter body to fit the pipette. In adapter 371, contact 378 is provided on the upper part 373 of the adapter. The lower part 374 is fixedly attached to the upper part 373. The lower part 374 includes a ball plunger 379. The ball plunger includes a ball bearing and a spring. When pressure is applied to the ball bearing, the spring retracts, moving the ball bearing away from the pressure. In adapter 371, mounting to the rail is achieved by positioning the upper part on the rail and pushing the lower part toward the rail. The ball bearing retracts, and the rail enters the adapter. Once the rail enters the adapter, the spring pushes the ball bearing into contact with the rail, securely mounting the adapter to the rail. The rail may be configured to have suitable grooves (provided along the length of the rail) on the surface of the rail for the ball bearing. These grooves improve stability.

[0053] Figure 4D shows adapter 381. At least a portion of the rail is positioned within the adapter. A pipette is attached to the adapter front (indicated by reference numeral 382) using a suitable adapter portion or by configuring the adapter body to fit the pipette. Adapter 381 may include two adapter fronts 382, ​​one on each side of the rail as shown in Figure 4D. Adapter 381 includes an upper part 383 and a lower part 384. The two parts may be fixedly attached to each other. The lower part includes at least one, for example, two ball plungers 389. Thus, adapter 381 may be positioned on the rail from above by pressing the adapter downward against the rail. The ball bearings of the ball plungers roll along the side of the rail so that the rail enters the adapter to the desired extent. A longitudinal groove may be provided on the side of the rail for the bearing. A contact 388 is provided to contact the side of the rail. This contact may also be spring-driven to ensure good contact with an electrical conductor provided on the rail.

[0054] As mentioned above, there are several options for the adapter configuration. The dimensions of each adapter and the configuration of each part of the adapter depend on the rail shape. This is also partially true for the selected mounting mechanism (e.g., movable lower, clamp, ball plunger), although the intended use and / or user preference also play a role. In other words, various adapter mounting mechanisms can be used for a single rail.

[0055] Figures 4E and 4F show the charging elements of the adapter using a top view of the adapter. Figure 4E shows adapter 130 in a similar form to other adapters disclosed herein. Adapter 130 includes adapter electrical contacts 134. These electrical contacts are positioned to contact the pipette contacts when a pipette, for example, pipette 902, is placed inside adapter 130. Adapter 130 also includes lower electrical contacts 133. The lower electrical contacts 133 are positioned to contact a rail at a preferred location on the adapter; that is, electrical contacts 133 are not in the vicinity of contacts 134. Adapter 130 is configured to be mounted on a preferred rail so that the lower electrical contacts 133 contact an elongated conductor or its port on the rail. This provides an electrical connection from the elongated conductor to the adapter. As shown by the dotted line, electrical contacts 133 are connected to adapter electrical contacts 134 by a preferred conductor within the adapter body. Contacts 134 are positioned to contact the pipette contacts, thereby providing an electrical connection between the elongated conductor and the pipette. This electrical connection allows the pipette to be charged and / or to communicate with the pipette.

[0056] Figure 4F shows an adapter 140 in a similar form to other adapters disclosed herein. The adapter 140 includes a charging element containing a wireless charging coil 144 within the adapter body. This coil is positioned to interact with a corresponding charging coil, for example, the coil of a pipette 902, if such a coil is located near the coil 144. The adapter 140 also includes a lower electrical contact 143. The lower electrical contact 143 is positioned to contact a rail at a preferred location on the adapter. The adapter 140 is configured to be mounted on a preferred rail so that the lower electrical contact 143 contacts an elongated conductor or its port on the rail. This provides an electrical connection from the elongated conductor to the adapter. As shown by the dotted line, the electrical contact 143 is connected to the charging coil 144 by a preferred conductor within the adapter body. The charging element may include further wireless charging members, such as resistors. These further members may also be located within the adapter body. As described above, the coil 144 is configured to interact with the corresponding coil of the pipette, thereby providing an electrical connection between the elongated conductor and the pipette. This electrical connection allows the pipette to be charged and / or to communicate with the pipette.

[0057] Furthermore, the adapter may include both of the charging configurations described above, and may be configured to select the configuration based on the presence of a corresponding coil or charging contact in a pipette placed in the adapter. The charging configuration of each adapter, for example, adapters 103, 351, 361, 371, 381, 530, 560, 580, 603, 653, 673, 703, and 753, may be selected from at least contact charging, wireless charging, or selective contact charging or wireless charging.

[0058] Figures 5A, 5B, and 5C show rails and corresponding adapters according to the present disclosure. Figure 5A shows rail 501. Rail 501 includes elongated grooves 502 and 503. The top surface of rail 501 is configured to be appropriately curved to accommodate the handle of a mechanical pipette, for example, as in Figure 2.

[0059] Figure 5B shows the adapter 530. The adapter 530 has a shape suitable for use with the rail 501. This complementary shape can be understood by comparing the shape of the rail in Figures 5A and 5C with the shape of the adapter shown in Figure 5B. As can be understood from Figure 5C, the rail 501 includes at least one, for example, two electrical conductors 506. When the rail 501 is placed inside the adapter 530, at least one electrical conductor 506 is in contact with the electrical contact 533 of the adapter 530. This allows a charging current to be supplied from the electrical conductor to the adapter and, by extension, to the electronic pipette attached to the adapter 530.

[0060] The adapter 530 includes an upper part 531 and a lower part 532. The upper part 531 includes a gap (not directly shown), and the lower part 532 extends into this gap. The two parts form a “rail gap,” which is the internal distance from the bottom of the lower part to the top of the inner part of the upper part. The distance between parts 531 and 532 can be increased by moving the two parts apart in the direction indicated by the dashed two-way arrows. When the two parts are moved in this way, the lower part is partially removed from the gap in the upper part. When the adapter is fully extended, it is in a “removed position” because the two parts separate and no longer clamp the rail. Figure 5B shows the adapter in the mounting position.

[0061] The adapter 530 may include, for example, a spring element (not shown) within the body of part 531. The spring element is configured to pull both part 531 and part 532 by spring tension, thereby firmly holding both parts together. The spring element is configured to pull both parts along the direction of the dotted arrow. When both parts are held together, or at least held together as far as the rail inside the adapter allows, the adapter is in the "mounting position". Thus, the adapter can be firmly mounted to a complementary rail, such as the rail 501 in Figures 5A and 5B.

[0062] The adapter 530 in Figure 5B is shaped to allow an electronic pipette to be attached and / or positioned. The shape of the adapter is complementary to a pipette, such as an electronic pipette (e.g., pipette 902). The adapter has notches and protrusions (not shown) and can assist in positioning and arranging a pipette of appropriate shape, such as a pipette having complementary protrusions that engage with the notches. The adapter 530 includes a charging element located within the upper part 531, the element including electrical contacts 534. Additionally or alternatively, the charging element may have a “wireless charging” function using electromagnetic induction. The charging element is configured to send an electrical signal from contact 533 to contact 534.

[0063] Figure 5C shows a cross-section of the rail 501. The rail 501 includes a side wall 504 and at least one internal void 505. The rail 501 further includes a conductor 506. The conductor 506 extends along the entire length of the rail. This configuration allows the adapter to be connected to the conductor at any point on the rail. End caps are available for use with the rail 501.

[0064] Figures 6A, 6B, and 6C show a rail and a corresponding adapter according to the present disclosure. Figure 6A shows a cross-section of the rail 551. The rail 551 includes a side wall 554 and at least one internal void 555. The rail 551 includes elongated grooves such as elongated grooves 552a. These grooves may be covered and / or at least partially filled with cushions such as cushions 552b. For example, as shown in Figures 6A to 6C, the rail 551 may include four elongated grooves: two grooves in the lower part of the rail closer to the conductor 556 and two grooves in the upper part of the rail. For example, the rail may include three cushions: at least one cushion is arranged to cover at least two grooves.

[0065] The top surface of the rail 551 is configured to be appropriately curved to accommodate a pipette handle, for example, by having a cushion in at least part of it. The rail 551 further includes conductors 556. In the examples of Figures 6A–6C, there are three conductors 556. Embodiments are also possible with any number of conductors, for example, two conductors, or two to twelve conductors. Having more conductors on the rail compared to the contacts on the adapter allows the adapter to be positioned on either side of the rail, as described herein with respect to Figure 7. The conductors 556 may be located in grooves of conductor elements, as seen in the figure. The conductors 556 (and conductor elements) extend along the entire length of the rail. Such a configuration allows the adapter to be connected to the conductors at any point on the rail. End caps are available for the rail 551.

[0066] Figure 6B shows the adapter 560. The adapter 560 has a shape suitable for use with the rail 551. This complementary shape can be understood by comparing the shape of the rail in Figure 6A with the shape of the adapter shown in Figure 6B. This will be further shown and explained in Figure 6C.

[0067] Like other adapters described herein, the adapter 560 includes an upper and a lower part. The upper part may include a gap (not shown directly). The lower part may extend into this gap, and alternatively or additionally, both parts may be attached using hinges. The two parts form a “gap” 566, where a rail, such as a rail 551, may be placed. The distance between the two parts can be adjusted, for example, by moving the two parts apart from each other. When the adapter is sufficiently adjusted, it is in a “removed position.” This is because the two parts are separated and the gap 566 is larger than the rail dimensions, so the adapter no longer clamps the rail.

[0068] For example, when both parts are held together as far as the rail within the adapter allows, the adapter 560 becomes a "mounting position." Thus, the adapter can be securely attached to a complementary rail.

[0069] The adapter 560 in Figure 6B is shaped to allow an electronic pipette to be attached and / or positioned. The shape of the adapter is complementary to a pipette, such as an electronic pipette (e.g., pipette 902). The adapter has notches and protrusions (not shown) and can assist in positioning and arranging a pipette of appropriate shape, for example, a pipette having complementary protrusions that engage with the notches. The adapter 560 includes a charging element located in the upper part, the element including electrical contacts 564. Additionally or alternatively, the charging element may have a “wireless charging” function using electromagnetic induction. The charging element is configured to send an electrical signal to the pipette from contact 563, for example, via contact 564.

[0070] Figure 6C shows the adapter 560 attached to the rail 551. When the rail 551 is positioned within the adapter 560, at least two electrical conductors 556 are in contact with the electrical contacts 563 of the adapter 560. This allows a charging current to be supplied from the electrical conductors to the adapter and, by extension, to the electronic pipette attached to the adapter 560, for example, via the contacts 564.

[0071] Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C show a rail and corresponding adapter according to the present disclosure. Figure 7A shows a cross-section of the rail 571. The rail 571 includes a side wall 574 and at least one internal void 575. End caps are available for the rail 571. The rail 571 includes elongated grooves such as elongated grooves 572a. These grooves may be covered and / or at least partially filled with cushions such as cushions 572b. For example, as shown in Figures 7A to 7C, the rail 571 may include four elongated grooves: two grooves in the lower part of the rail closer to the charging element 576 and two grooves in the upper part of the rail. For example, the rail may include three cushions: at least one cushion is positioned to cover at least two grooves.

[0072] The top surface of the rail 571 is configured to be appropriately curved to accommodate a pipette handle, for example, by having a cushion in at least part of it. The rail 571 further includes conductors 576. In the example in Figures 7A-7C, there are seven conductors 576. In the corresponding adapter 580, there are four contacts. Multiple contacts may be useful because, for example, using them can facilitate both power transmission and bus communication. For example, two contacts can be used for power transmission and the other two for communication. The communication function and the power supply function may share contacts, such as a ground contact. Having more conductors on the rail compared to the contacts on the adapter allows the adapter to be placed on either side of the rail. That is, if an adapter with four contacts is placed on the left side of a rail with seven conductors, the first four conductors are used by the adapter, and the remaining three conductors are not used by this adapter. If the same adapter is placed on the right side of the same rail, the first three conductors (counting from the left) are not used, and the remaining four conductors are used by the adapter. In this example, the fourth conductor is used regardless of which side the adapter is attached to the rail from. It is not necessary to use all conductors when attaching the adapter.

[0073] The conductor 576 may be located within the groove of the conductor element, as shown in the figure. The conductor 576 (and the conductor element) extends along the entire length of the rail. This configuration allows the adapter to be connected to the conductor at any point on the rail.

[0074] Figure 7B shows the adapter 580. The adapter 580 has a shape suitable for use with the rail 571. This complementary shape can be understood by comparing the shape of the rail in Figure 7A with the shape of the adapter shown in Figure 7B. This will be further shown and explained in Figure 7C.

[0075] Like other adapters described herein, the adapter 580 includes an upper and a lower part. The upper part may include a gap (not shown directly). The lower part may extend into this gap, and alternatively or additionally, both parts may be attached using hinges. The two parts form a “gap” 586, where a rail, such as a rail 571, may be placed. The distance between the two parts can be adjusted, for example, by moving the two parts apart from each other. When the adapter is sufficiently adjusted, it is in a “removed position.” This is because the two parts are separated and the gap 586 is larger than the rail dimensions, so the adapter no longer clamps the rail.

[0076] For example, when both parts are held together as far as the rail within the adapter allows, the adapter 580 becomes a "mounting position." Therefore, the adapter can be securely attached to a complementary rail.

[0077] The adapter 580 in Figure 7B is shaped to allow an electronic pipette to be attached and / or positioned. The shape of the adapter is complementary to a pipette, such as an electronic pipette (e.g., pipette 902). The adapter has notches and protrusions (not shown) and can assist in positioning and arranging a pipette of appropriate shape, such as a pipette having complementary protrusions that engage with the notches. The adapter 580 includes a charging element located in the upper part, the element including electrical contacts 584. Additionally or alternatively, the charging element may have a “wireless charging” function using electromagnetic induction. The charging element is configured to send an electrical signal to the pipette from contact 583, for example, via contact 584.

[0078] Figure 7C shows the adapter 580 mounted on the rail 571. When the rail 571 is positioned within the adapter 580, at least four of the electrical conductors 576 are in contact with the four electrical contacts 583 of the adapter 580. As previously mentioned, the use of conductors 576 depends on which side of the adapter 580 is positioned relative to the rail 571. Such electrical contact between conductors 576 and contacts 583 allows a charging current to be supplied from the electrical conductors to the adapter and, by extension, to the electronic pipette mounted on the adapter 580, via contact 584, for example.

[0079] Figures 8A, 8B, and 8C show rail adapter configurations capable of supporting at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 8A shows a pipette rack configuration 600. The pipette rack configuration 600 is mountable on an overhead surface 961, such as a shelf or table. The pipette rack configuration 600 includes at least one rail, such as rail 601, as shown in the figure. Rail 601 may be any suitable rail, for example, any of the rails disclosed herein, for example, one of rails 101, 201, 301, 302, 303, 304, or 501. Rail 601 includes at least one elongated electrical conductor. Rail 601 is attached to end caps 602a and 602b, which are configured to act as connector elements. The end caps 602a and 602b may include vertical connectors, or vertical connectors may be attached to the end caps. The vertical connector may be configured to be mounted on the underside of the overhead surface, as shown in the figure, or it may be configured to be mounted on the upper side of the overhead surface, for example by being clamped to the overhead surface. The end caps 602a and 602b are configured to mount the pipette rack configuration 600 to the overhead surface via the vertical connector.

[0080] Pipettes 901 and 902 are shown in an exemplary configuration, mounted on a pipette rack configuration 600. As seen in the figure, the pipette rack configuration 600 may include one or more adapters 603 for mounting electronic pipettes to the rail 601. The adapters 603 may be any suitable adapter, for example, any of the adapters disclosed herein, such as adapters 103, 130, 140, 351, 361, 371, 381, and 530.

[0081] One advantage of the pipette rack configuration 600 is that the rails may be configured to match the width of the overhead surface 961. That is, the length of the pipette rack configuration may be configured to be approximately equal to the width of the overhead surface, thereby allowing the configuration to be used with existing laboratory equipment such as shelves, workbenches, or other furniture. This configuration also saves space; that is, it occupies a small physical area. This is particularly important for environments with limited space, such as laminar flow cabinets.

[0082] Figure 8B shows a freestanding (also called a tabletop) pipette rack configuration 650. The pipette rack configuration 650 includes a rail 651, an end cap 652, and legs 655a and 655b. The rail 651 may be any suitable rail, for example, one of the rails disclosed herein, for example, rails 101, 201, 301, 302, 303, 304, or 501. The rail 651 includes at least one elongated electrical conductor. The legs 655a and 655b are configured to connect to the rail 651, and the end cap 652 is configured to secure the connection between the rail and the legs. The end cap may include fastening means (not shown), for example, screws or bolts, to ensure that the legs and the rail do not separate.

[0083] Pipettes 901 and 902 are shown in an exemplary configuration mounted on a pipette rack configuration 650. As seen in the figure, the pipette rack configuration 650 may include one or more adapters 653 for mounting electronic pipettes to the rail 601. The adapters 653 may be any suitable adapter, for example, any of the adapters disclosed herein, such as adapters 103, 130, 140, 351, 361, 371, 381, and 530.

[0084] One advantage of the pipette rack configuration 650 is that the rails may be configured to allow for any preferred length. Furthermore, the structure of configuration 650 is mechanically robust and can be used from both sides of the rails.

[0085] Figure 8C shows a pipette rack configuration 670. The pipette rack configuration 600 is mountable on a vertical surface, for example, a wall (not shown). The pipette rack configuration 670 includes at least one rail, for example, rail 671, as shown in the figure. Rail 671 may be any preferred rail, for example, any of the rails disclosed herein, for example, one of rails 101, 201, 301, 302, 303, 304, or 501. Rail 671 includes at least one elongated electrical conductor. The configuration further includes an end cap 672a and optionally an end cap 672b. The end cap 672a is configured to act as a connector element for a wall mount 675. The configuration may further include a wall mount 675. The end cap 672a is configured to mount the pipette rack configuration 670 to a vertical surface, for example, via the wall mount 675.

[0086] The end cap 672a and the wall mounting section 675 are configured to function as a hinge joint. When the end cap 672a is connected to the wall mounting section 675, the rail 671 can be manually moved around the hinge. The wall mounting section 675 can be attached to a vertical surface using fixing means (not shown), such as screws or magnets.

[0087] Pipettes 901 and 902 are shown in an exemplary configuration mounted on a pipette rack configuration 670. As seen in the figure, the pipette rack configuration 670 may include one or more adapters 673 for mounting electronic pipettes to rails 671. The adapters 673 may be any suitable adapter, for example, any of the adapters disclosed herein, such as adapters 103, 130, 140, 351, 361, 371, 381, and 530.

[0088] One of the advantages of the pipette rack configuration 670 is that it can be positioned at an ergonomically comfortable height. Furthermore, the configuration can be rotated to a suitable angle, for example, to be positioned closer to a wall when not in use. The configuration also saves space; that is, it occupies a small physical area. This is particularly important in spaces-constrained environments such as laminar flow cabinets.

[0089] Figures 9A and 9B show pipette rack configurations capable of supporting at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 9A shows pipette rack configuration 700, which is a freestanding (also called a tabletop) configuration. Pipette rack configuration 700 includes at least one rail 701 and a base 710. Optionally, configuration 700 may further include any combination of the following: an additional rail 704, an additional rail 705, one or more adapters 703, a hinged end cap 702a, a hinged end cap 702b, an end cap 702c, or an end cap 702d. Rails 701, 704, and / or 705 may be any suitable rail, for example, any one of the rails disclosed herein, for example, any one of rails 101, 201, 301, 302, 303, 304, or 501. Rail 701 includes an elongated electrical conductor. Rails 704 and / or 705 may include elongated electrical conductors.

[0090] Rail 701 may be connected to at least one hinged end cap, for example, hinged end cap 702a and / or hinged end cap 702b. The hinged end cap is configured to act as a hinge joint together with the corresponding end cap of rail 701. When rail 701 is connected to rail 705 using end cap 702b, rail 705 can be manually moved relative to rail 701 around the hinge. When rail 701 is connected to rail 704 using end cap 702a, rail 704 can be manually moved relative to rail 701 around the hinge. The end cap may be configured to supply power from rail 701 to an additional rail.

[0091] The base 710 includes a rail connector 711, a stem 712, and a base 713. The rail connector 711 is connected to the stem 712, and the stem 712 is connected to the base 713. The rail connector is configured to be removablely attached to the rail 701. The base may further include an electrical conductor (not shown) that is electrically connected to the rail 701 via the rail connector 711. The base may further include a power input cord 715, which may include a transformer unit. The power input cord 715 is connected to the electrical conductor of the base 710.

[0092] Multiple pipettes 901 and 902 are shown mounted on a pipette rack configuration 700 in an exemplary configuration. As seen in the figure, the pipette rack configuration 700 may include one or more adapters 703 for mounting electronic pipettes to rails 701, 704, or 705. The adapters 703 may be any suitable adapter, for example, any of the adapters disclosed herein, such as one of adapters 103, 130, 140, 351, 361, 371, 381, or 530.

[0093] One of the advantages of the pipette rack configuration 700 is that it can be flexibly arranged according to the application or user requirements. The length of the main rail 701 and the additional rails can be freely selected, and the angle of the additional rails can be manually adjusted during use. Furthermore, the configuration can be folded to save space by adjusting the angle of the additional rails.

[0094] Figure 9B shows a pipette rack configuration 750. This configuration is a freestanding (also called a tabletop) configuration. The pipette rack configuration 750 includes at least one rail 751 and a base 760. Optionally, the configuration 700 may further include any combination of the following: an additional rail 754, one or more adapters 753, a hinged end cap 752a, a hinged end cap 752b, an end cap 752c, or an end cap 752d. The rails 751 and / or 754 may be any suitable rails, for example, any one of the rails disclosed herein, for example, rails 101, 201, 301, 302, 303, 304, or 501. The rail 754 includes an elongated electrical conductor. The rail 754 may include an elongated electrical conductor.

[0095] Rail 751 may be connected to at least one hinged end cap, for example, hinged end cap 752a. The hinged end cap, together with the corresponding end cap on the base top 761, is configured to act as a hinge joint. When rail 751 is connected to top 761 using end cap 752a, rail 751 can be manually moved relative to top 761 around the hinge. Similarly, when rail 754 is connected to top 761 using hinged end cap 752b, rail 754 can be manually moved relative to top 761 around the hinge. The end caps may be configured to supply power from top 761 to rails 751 and / or 754.

[0096] The base 760 includes a base top 761, a stem 762, and a base 763. The base top 761 is connected to the stem 762, and the stem 762 is connected to the base 763. The base top may include a desk area suitable for mounting a tablet device or arranging laboratory equipment. The base may further include an electrical conductor (not shown) electrically connected to rails 751 and / or 754 via the base top 761. The base may further include a power input cord (not shown) connected to the electrical conductor of the base.

[0097] Multiple pipettes 901 and 902 are shown mounted on a pipette rack configuration 750 in an exemplary configuration. As seen in the figure, the pipette rack configuration 750 may include one or more adapters 753 for mounting electronic pipettes to either rail 751, 754. The adapters 753 may be any suitable adapter, for example, any of the adapters disclosed herein, such as one of adapters 103, 130, 140, 351, 361, 371, 381, and 530.

[0098] One of the advantages of the pipette rack configuration 750 is its flexible arrangement. The rail length can be freely selected, and the angle of the additional rails can be manually adjusted during use. Furthermore, the configuration can be folded to save space by adjusting the angle of the additional rails. The base top 761 has an area for a tablet device. This tablet device can assist in laboratory research.

[0099] This disclosure offers several advantages. One advantage of using rails within a pipette rack or holder is that the length of the rails can be adjusted to suit the specific user's needs, for example, by shortening the rails. The user can shorten the rails themselves, for example, using a hacksaw. The rails can provide the user with working flexibility, for example, if the rails are at least the length of the working surface. In such a situation, the pipettes can be flexibly positioned at any position on the rails, thereby allowing the user to arrange the working environment to their liking. When using adapters, they need to be positioned at the desired location. Several adapters may be used for a single pipette.

[0100] Another advantage is that, since the adapter can be configured specifically for the pipette, the rail may include a comprehensive, common, or nearly common form in terms of shape and external profile. This is because the adapter can "adapt" the shape of the pipette to the desired rail external profile. Thus, when using an adapter, a large number of types and models of pipettes, including various shapes, can be mounted on the desired rail. Furthermore, since the rail can have a comprehensive shape and a desired adjustable length, such a rail can be easily incorporated into existing pipette racks and their designs, including, for example, overhead mounting racks, bottom mounting racks, wall mounting holders, and tabletop stands. In at least some embodiments, the pipette rack, or pipette holder, may include such a rail.

[0101] This disclosure can also be used as described in the following sections.

[0102] Item 1. A system for holding a pipette, The aforementioned system, An adapter comprising a main body element configured to hold a pipette, A rail containing at least one electrical conductor, Includes, The electrical conductor extends at least partially along the longitudinal direction of the at least one rail, The adapter is configured to be attached to the rail at any point along at least one rail, in a system.

[0103] Item 2. The system described in Item 1, The adapter includes a charging element, The adapter is configured to connect the charging element to the at least one electrical conductor of the at least one rail when it is attached to the at least one rail. The charging element is a system comprising at least one of an electrical contact, a wire, or a coil configured for wireless charging.

[0104] Item 3. A system described in Item 1 or 2, The system is configured such that the rail is attached to at least one of a wall mount, a support leg, or a second rail via at least one end cap.

[0105] Item 4. A system for holding a pipette, The aforementioned system, A rail comprising at least one electrical conductor, wherein the electrical conductor extends at least partially along the longitudinal direction of at least one rail. Includes, The system is configured to be mounted to an overhead surface via end cap mounting units (602a, 602b).

[0106] Item 5. A system for holding a pipette, The aforementioned system, A rail comprising at least one electrical conductor, wherein the electrical conductor extends at least partially along the longitudinal direction of at least one rail. Includes, The aforementioned system includes support legs (655a, 655b), The system is configured to stand on a plane via the support legs connected to the rail, A system in which an end cap (652) is configured to secure the connection between the rail and the support leg.

[0107] Item 6. A system for holding a pipette, The aforementioned system, A rail comprising at least one electrical conductor, wherein the electrical conductor extends at least partially along the longitudinal direction of at least one rail. Includes, The system includes a wall-mounting section (675) and an element configured to function as a hinge. An end cap configured to connect the rail to the wall-mounted portion forms at least a part of the hinge. The system is configured to be mounted on a vertical surface via the wall-mount portion and to rotate about a hinge axis.

[0108] Item 7. A system for holding a pipette, The aforementioned system, A rail comprising at least one electrical conductor, wherein the electrical conductor extends at least partially along the longitudinal direction of at least one rail. Includes, The system includes a base (710), the base includes a rail connector (711), a stem (712), and a base foot (713), The rail connector is configured to be attached to the rail, The stem portion is connected to the rail connector and the base foot portion. The system is configured to stand on a plane via the base.

[0109] Item 8. The system described in Item 7, The system further comprises a rail that is hinged to at least one additional rail (705).

[0110] Item 9. A system for holding a pipette, The aforementioned system, A rail comprising at least one electrical conductor, wherein the electrical conductor extends at least partially along the longitudinal direction of at least one rail. Includes, The system includes a base (760), the base includes a base apex (761), a stem (762), and a base foot (763), The top of the base is configured to be attached to the rail, The aforementioned stem portion is connected to the aforementioned base apex and the aforementioned base foot portion, The system is configured to stand on a plane via the base.

[0111] Item 10. The system described in Item 7, The top of the base is hinged to the rail, The system wherein the top of the base is optionally hinged to at least one additional rail (754).

[0112] Item 11. A system described in any one of items 4 through 10, The aforementioned system, An adapter, comprising a body element configured to hold a pipette. Includes, The adapter is configured to be attached to the rail at any point along at least one rail, in a system.

[0113] Item 12. The system described in Item 11, The adapter includes a charging element, The adapter is configured to connect the charging element to the at least one electrical conductor of the at least one rail when it is attached to the at least one rail. The charging element is a system comprising at least one of an electrical contact, a wire, or a coil configured for wireless charging.

[0114] Item 13. A system described in any one of the preceding items, The system includes an electrical pipette, The system includes at least one adapter configured to hold and / or charge the electrical pipette.

[0115] Item 14. A system described in any one of the preceding items, The system includes a pipette, The rail is configured such that the pipette can be directly placed on it. The aforementioned arrangement is, for example, a system that uses the hook on the upper end of the pipette.

[0116] Item 15. A system described in any one of the preceding items, The rail system includes at least two conductors, preferably at least five conductors, and particularly seven conductors.

[0117] Item 16. A system described in any one of the preceding items, The rail is connected to a communication bus, and includes the communication bus. The adapter is configured to use the communication bus of the rail, for example, via contacts, and / or to connect the pipette to the communication bus.

[0118] The embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not limited to the specific structures, process steps, or materials disclosed herein, but extend to their equivalents as recognized by those skilled in the art. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are used solely for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit them.

[0119] Any reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that certain features, structures, or characteristics described in relation to an embodiment are included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, although the phrases "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" are used in various places throughout this specification, they do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment.

[0120] For convenience, multiple items, structural elements, components, and / or materials may be listed together in this specification. However, these listings should be interpreted so that each member is independently identifiable as a separate and unique element. No individual member of such a list should be interpreted as a de facto equivalent to any other member in the same listing, unless otherwise specified, simply because it is presented in the same group. Furthermore, various embodiments and examples of the Invention may be referenced herein along with substitutes for various components. Such embodiments, examples, and substitutes should not be interpreted as de facto equivalents to one another, but rather as separate and independent expressions of the Invention.

[0121] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or properties may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. This description provides numerous specific details, such as examples of length, width, shape, etc., to provide a complete understanding of embodiments of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be carried out without one or more specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other examples, well-known structures, materials, or operations are omitted in detail or description to avoid obscuring embodiments of the invention.

[0122] For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms "A or B" and "A and / or B" mean (A), (B), or (A and B). For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms "A, B, and / or C" mean (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C).

[0123] The examples described above illustrate the principles of the present invention in one or more specific applications, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous modifications in embodiments, uses, and details can be made without exercising inventive ability and without departing from the principles and concepts of the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the claims.

[0124] In this specification, the verbs “to comprise” and “to include” are used as open limitations, neither excluding nor requiring the existence of features not described. Features described in dependent claims can be freely combined with each other unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, the use of “a” or “an” throughout this specification, i.e., the singular form, should be understood not to exclude the plural. [Industrial applicability]

[0125] At least some embodiments of the present invention can be industrially used in automated liquid handling equipment, more specifically, in the installation of equipment in an adjustable manner into such equipment.

[0126] List of acronyms CAN-FD Controller Area Network - Flexible Data Rate CANBUS Controller Area Network Bus RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) PEEK (Polyetheretherketone) SEBS Styrene-Ethylene-Butylene-Styrene TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) USB Universal Serial Bus WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] Configurations: 100, 200, 210, 220, 600, 650, 670, 700, 750 Rails 101, 201, 223, 301, 302, 303, 304, 501, 551, 571, 601, 651, 671, 701, 704, 705, 751, 754 102, 602a, 602b, 652, 672a, 672b, 702a, 702b, 702c, 702d, 752a, 752b, 752c, 752d End caps 103, 130, 140, 203, 221, 222, 351, 361, 371, 381, 530, 560, 580, 603, 653, 673, 703, 753 adapter 104, 133, 134, 143, 358, 368, 388, 378, 533, 534, 563, 564, 583, 584 Adapter contacts 506, 556, 576 rail conductors 144 Wireless Charging Coils 310 Aperture 311, 502, 503, 552a, 572a groove 552b, 572b Cushion 352, 362, 372, 382 Front of adapter 353, 363, 373, 383, 531 Adapter top 354, 364, 374, 384, 532 lower part of adapter 355, 365 Knob mechanism 379, 389 Ball plungers 504, 554, 571, 574 side wall 505, 555, 575 void 566, 586 gap 655a, 655b Legs 675 Wall-mounted section 710, 760 Base Assembly 711 Rail Connector 712, 762 Stem 713, 763 base foot 715 Power input cord 761 Base top 901 Mechanical pipette 902 Electronic pipette 903 Pipette contact 961 Overhead surface

Claims

1. An adapter for holding a pipette, The aforementioned adapter is - A main body element configured to hold a pipette Includes, The adapter is configured to be attached to at least one rail at any point on the rail, the at least one rail including at least one electrical conductor, the electrical conductor extending at least partially along the longitudinal direction of the at least one rail.

2. The adapter according to claim 1, wherein the adapter is configured to be slidably movable along the at least one rail.

3. The adapter is configured to be movable along at least one rail with frictional resistance, For example, the adapter according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a spring element within the adapter is configured to adjust the interference fit between the adapter and the rail.

4. The adapter is configured to have a locked position and an unlocked position, In the aforementioned locked position, the adapter is locked in a stationary position with respect to at least one rail. In the unlocked position, the adapter is slidably movable along the at least one rail, for example, with frictional resistance, according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the adapter is configured to have a removal position from which it can be removed from the rail and a mounting position to which it can be attached to the rail.

6. The adapter includes a charging element, The adapter is configured such that, when attached to the at least one rail, it connects the charging element to the at least one electrical conductor of the at least one rail. The adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the charging element includes at least one of an electrical contact, a wire, and a coil configured for wireless charging.

7. The adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the adapter is configured to maintain the connection of the charging element with the at least one electrical conductor of the at least one rail when it is moved along the rail.

8. The adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the adapter is configured such that pulling the lower part downwards brings it to at least one of the unlocked position and the removal position.

9. The aforementioned at least one rail further includes a communication bus, The adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the adapter is configured to use the communication bus and / or to connect the pipette to the communication bus.

10. A rail for holding at least one pipette, The aforementioned rail is - At least one electrical conductor, the electrical conductor extending at least partially along the length of the rail, Includes, The rail is configured such that at least one adapter, which includes a body element configured to hold a pipette, can be attached at any point along the rail. The rail is configured to be attached to at least one connector element, which is attached to at least one of the wall-mounting portion, the support leg, and the second rail.

11. The rail is configured such that the adapter can be attached from either side of the rail. For example, the rail according to claim 10, wherein the rail has a symmetrical outer shape.

12. The rail according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the rail is supported by at least one base portion including at least one support element and is connected to the base portion by a connector element.

13. The rail includes at least two rail elements, The rail according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the first and second rail elements are connected to each other by at least one connecting element which includes a mechanical connector and an electrical connector and at least one connecting portion.

14. A system for holding pipettes, An adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 9, A rail according to any one of claims 10 to 13, A system that includes this.

15. The system according to claim 14, further comprising an electronic pipette.

16. A method for providing a system for holding a pipette, The aforementioned method, - A step of attaching an adapter to a rail, wherein the rail includes at least one electrical conductor, and the electrical conductor extends at least partially along the length of the rail. Includes, The adapter includes a body element configured to hold a pipette, and the adapter is configured to be movably mounted on the rail at any point along the rail.

17. The adapter is configured to have a locked position and an unlocked position, In the aforementioned locked position, the adapter is locked in a stationary position with respect to at least one rail. The method according to claim 16, wherein in the unlocked position, the adapter is slidably movable along the at least one rail, for example, with frictional resistance.

18. The adapter includes a charging element, The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the adapter is configured to connect the charging element to the at least one electrical conductor of the rail.

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