Pipette assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a pipette unit (2) comprising a pipette housing (3) having a cylinder chamber (4) and a pipette opening (5), and a piston (6) movably mounted within the cylinder chamber (4); a drive motor (8) that acts on the piston (6) to move the piston; an operating element (9) that defines the movement of the piston (6); and a sensor assembly (10) that detects the movement of the operating element (9) and provides a signal corresponding to the movement to the drive motor (8), thereby controlling the drive motor (8) based on the signal (S) and acting on the piston (6) accordingly; and a drive unit (7) comprising these components. The pipette assembly (1) comprises the drive unit (7) further comprising a mode switch (11), the mode switch (11) being shiftable from a manual mode position to a stepped mode position, the operating element (9) being operable in manual operation mode when the mode switch (11) is in the manual mode position so as to be able to dispense a pipetting amount proportional to the movement of the operating element (9), and the operating element (9) being operable in stepped operation mode when the mode switch (11) is in the stepped mode position so as to be able to dispense a predetermined pipetting amount each time the operating element (9) is operated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pipette assembly as described in the independent claims.

Background Art

[0002] In the prior art, pipettes for quantifying liquids are disclosed. These pipettes include a cylinder and a piston movable within the cylinder, and the piston can suck and dispense the liquid quantitatively.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a pipette having a mechanical actuating element moved by a user. This movement is detected by a sensor, and based on the detected sensor value, the piston is moved via a piston drive unit. Here, the piston can be continuously actuated to dispense the liquid in conjunction with the movement of the actuating element, or can be actuated stepwise to dispense a predetermined volume in each actuation.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Based on this prior art, an object of the present invention is to provide an ergonomically operable pipette assembly. This object is achieved by the subject matters described in claims 1 and 16.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The pipette assembly according to claim 1 comprises a pipette unit and a drive unit. The pipette unit comprises a pipette housing having a cylinder chamber and a pipette opening, and a piston movably mounted in the cylinder chamber. The drive unit comprises a drive motor that acts on the piston to move it, an actuation element that defines the movement of the piston, and a sensor assembly that detects the movement of the actuation element and provides a signal corresponding to the movement to the drive motor, so as to control the drive motor based on a signal and act on the piston accordingly. The drive unit further comprises a mode switch. The mode switch is shiftable from a manual mode position to a stepped mode position, and when the mode switch is in the manual mode position, the actuation element is operable in manual operation mode so as to be able to dispense a pipetting amount proportional to the movement of the actuation element or the operating stroke of the actuation element, and when the mode switch is in the stepped mode position, the actuation element is operable in stepped operation mode so as to dispense a predetermined or identical pipetting amount with each operation.

[0007] This type of pipette assembly provides laboratory workers with a flexible pipette assembly. A switch allows the same actuation element to be used in both operating modes, resulting in the ergonomic advantage of being able to operate in the same direction.

[0008] The mode switch preferably restricts the movement of the actuarial element in the stepped mode position. Restricting the movement of the actuarial element in the stepped operating mode has the advantage of allowing the actuarial element to perform a predetermined operation, thereby improving the ergonomics of the pipette assembly. In the stepped operating mode, it is preferable that the movement of the actuarial element be restricted so that the user perceives the operation as similar to pressing a push button.

[0009] In manual operation mode, the pipetting volume is proportional to the movement of the working element. That is, a volume corresponding to each operational increment is dispensed for each operational increment. The piston movement can be made to correspond to the movement of the working element. Alternatively, the piston movement can be reduced or amplified relative to the movement of the working element.

[0010] In stepped mode, the stroke of the actuating element is preferably very small. In this case, it is not necessary to move the finger a lot when operating the actuating element. In stepped mode, the stroke of the actuating element is preferably 0.5 mm to 5 mm, and particularly preferably 0.5 mm to 3 mm.

[0011] The mode switch can be shifted from the stepped mode position to the manual mode position when returning from the stepped mode.

[0012] The mode switch can be shifted by the user from the manual mode position to the stepped mode position, and vice versa.

[0013] As described above, the piston is driven by a drive motor. Here, the drive motor moves the piston in proportion to the movement of the actuating element. Here, the movement of the actuating element can be amplified, reduced, or transmitted to the piston at the same magnitude, as described above. When the piston moves away from the pipette opening, liquid can be drawn into the cylinder chamber through the pipette opening, and when the piston moves toward the pipette opening, liquid can be dispensed from the cylinder chamber through the pipette opening.

[0014] Preferably, the operating element is movable from a first starting position to a first ending position in manual operation mode, and movable from a second starting position to a second ending position in stepwise operation mode.

[0015] In the first modified example, the first starting position and the second starting position are at the same location, and the first ending position is further from the starting position than the second ending position.

[0016] In the second modified example, the first endpoint and the second endpoint are at the same location, and the first starting point is further from the endpoint than the second starting point.

[0017] In the third modified example, the first starting position and the second starting position are in different positions, and the first ending position and the first starting position are in different positions, with the second starting position and the second ending position located between the first starting position and the first ending position.

[0018] In manual operation mode, the operating stroke of the operating element is preferably greater than the movement stroke of the operating element in stepwise operation mode. In this case, the movement stroke of the operating element in stepwise operation mode is preferably greater than 0.5 millimeters. In particular, the operating stroke of the operating element in manual operation mode is preferably 3 to 6 times the movement stroke of the operating element in stepwise operation mode.

[0019] As a result, the amount of finger movement required by the user in stepped operation mode is smaller than in manual operation mode. This offers the advantage of making the operation more ergonomic.

[0020] It is preferable that the operating element is movable along its respective travel stroke in both manual and stepped operating modes. It is particularly preferable that the travel stroke extends in the same direction in both manual and stepped operating modes. It is particularly preferable that the travel stroke extends along a linearly oriented axis in both manual and stepped operating modes.

[0021] In both the manual operation mode and the stepwise operation mode, the movement of the operating element is advantageous for the user in terms of improved ergonomics. In either mode, due to the movement of the operating element, the user can obtain tactile feedback. Furthermore, the user can move their finger in either operating mode, and preferably, can apply substantially the same force in both operating modes.

[0022] In both the manual operation mode and the stepwise operation mode, the movement of the operating element is advantageous because the user can obtain tactile feedback for each dispensing operation by this movement. This tactile feedback can indicate to the user that the dispensing operation has been performed normally. Thereby, the user can continue the dispensing process without being distracted by looking at the screen or other display devices.

[0023] In the stepwise operation mode, when the movement of the operating element is detected by the sensor assembly during the operation of the operating element, instead of a signal, a predetermined control signal is output to the drive motor, whereby a predetermined pipetting volume independent of the operating stroke of the operating element can be dispensed.

[0024] The predetermined pipetting volume is preferably set via an input element. For example, it is preferably set via a mechanically operable input element such as a rotary ring or a slider, or an electronic input element such as a switch or a touch screen.

[0025] In the manual operation mode, a pipetting volume correlated with or proportional to the movement stroke of the operating element is dispensed.

[0026] The mode switch preferably has a mode switch side stopper surface. The actuating element preferably has an actuating element side stopper surface. When the mode switch is in the stepped mode position, the mode switch side stopper surface is arranged such that the actuating element side stopper surface abuts against the mode switch side stopper surface and stops. When the mode switch is in the manual mode position, in a first modification, the mode switch side stopper surface is arranged such that the actuating element side stopper surface can pass through the mode switch side stopper surface and move freely, or can move without interacting with the actuating element side stopper surface. When the mode switch is in the manual mode position, in a second modification, the mode switch side stopper surface is arranged such that the actuating element side stopper surface abuts against and stops at the mode switch side stopper surface only at the upper end position of the actuating element.

[0027] In other words, the mode switch functions as a mechanical stopper, and when the mode switch is in the stepped operating position, the actuating element can abut against it and stop.

[0028] The actuating element preferably has an actuating element side operating surface, and the mode switch preferably has a mode switch side operating surface. When the actuating element is in the non-operating state and the mode switch is preferably in the manual mode position, the mode switch side operating surface is located at a distance of up to 80 millimeters from the actuating element side operating surface when viewed in the moving direction of the actuating element. This distance is particularly preferably 40 to 70 millimeters. This distance is understood as the distance in the moving axis direction of the actuating element. By setting such a distance, it is advantageous because the user can operate the pipette assembly with one hand and can switch between the two modes with one hand.

[0029] The pipette assembly preferably comprises an additional sensor assembly. The additional sensor assembly has a sensor. The sensor is configured and positioned to detect the position of a mode switch and to provide a control signal to the drive motor corresponding to that position. The control signal can be processed by the drive motor, which processes, for example, the signal from the sensor assembly that detects the movement of the actuating element in different ways between two operating modes.

[0030] The sensors in the additional sensor assembly are particularly preferably electrical switches that are mechanically actuated by a mode switch. Other sensors such as inductive sensors, capacitive sensors, photoelectronic sensors, and magnetic field sensors can also be used.

[0031] The pipette assembly preferably further comprises at least one printed circuit board positioned adjacent to the side of the drive motor.

[0032] The sensor assembly described above for detecting the movement of an actuating element preferably comprises an active sensor element and a passive sensor element. The active sensor element is placed on a printed circuit board, and the passive sensor element is placed on the actuating element. When the actuating element is actuated, a relative displacement occurs between these two sensor elements. This relative displacement can then be detected by the active sensor element. The active sensor element is preferably an inductive sensor, and the passive sensor element is preferably made of metal. In this case, the relative displacement causes a change in the magnetic field, and this change can be detected by the active sensor element. Alternatively, a photoelectron sensor can also be used for position measurement.

[0033] It is preferable that the sensors of the additional sensor assembly are also placed on the printed circuit board described above.

[0034] In the first embodiment, the mode switch is shiftable from a manual mode position to a stepped mode position in a direction substantially parallel or parallel to the operating direction of the actuating element. This embodiment has the advantage that the user can operate the pipette assembly with one hand.

[0035] The expression "substantially parallel" includes directions that are slightly angled relative to the operating direction of the operating element.

[0036] It is preferable that the mode switch side stopper surface is shiftable in the direction described above. The mode switch side stopper surface functions as a stopper for the operating element in both the first starting position in manual operation mode and the second starting position in stepwise operation mode.

[0037] When the mode switch is activated, it is preferable that the stopper surface on the mode switch side be able to contact the stopper surface on the actuating element side. This contact allows the actuating element to move from the starting position in manual operation mode to the starting position in stepwise operation mode. In other words, the actuating element is moved from the first starting position in the manual operation mode to the second starting position in the stepwise operation mode by the movement of the mode switch. As a result, a simple and ergonomic switching operation becomes possible. In particular, one-handed switching operation becomes possible.

[0038] In the second embodiment, the mode switch can be shifted from a manual mode position to a stepped mode position in a direction substantially or perpendicular to the operating direction of the actuating element.

[0039] The expression "substantially orthogonal" includes directions that are only slightly angled from the direction perpendicular to the operating direction of the actuating element.

[0040] The mode switch preferably has a rod-shaped portion that engages with a corresponding opening provided in the operating element. Here, the length of the corresponding opening in the operating direction of the operating element is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the rod-shaped portion.

[0041] In another embodiment, the mode switch can be shifted from a manual mode position to a stepped mode position in a direction inclined at an angle with respect to the operating direction of the actuating element.

[0042] In the third embodiment, the mode switch is a rotating disk. The rotating disk has a first groove and a second groove. The second groove extends at an angle to the first groove. The actuation element further comprises pins protruding from these grooves. The grooves are of different lengths, thereby achieving the aforementioned movement restriction.

[0043] The rotating disk can rotate around a rotation axis that extends in a direction perpendicular to the operating direction of the actuating element.

[0044] The rotation angle of the rotating disk is defined by the angle between two grooves, such that the grooves are parallel to the operating direction of the actuating element in each mode position. These grooves intersect at the center of rotation of the rotating disk, and when a pin is positioned on this intersection, the rotating disk can be shifted from the manual mode position to the stepped mode position.

[0045] In the fourth embodiment, the mode switch has a rigid shaft that engages with a receiving portion provided on the actuating element. Here, the receiving portion has a region for manual actuation mode and a region for stepwise actuation mode, and these two regions can be moved to a position that interacts with the shaft by rotating the actuating element around its actuation axis.

[0046] Any other optional features of the pipette assembly that may be used in any variation are described below.

[0047] The mode switch is preferably latchable to the drive unit via a latching element in the manual mode position. The mode switch is preferably latchable to the drive unit and / or actuating element via a latching element in the stepped mode position.

[0048] The drive unit preferably further includes a spring-elastic return element. The return element acts on the actuating element and is compressed during the actuating motion of the actuating element. When the actuating force decreases, the return element is released from the load, returning the actuating element to its starting position. This spring return allows the user to receive tactile feedback after the actuation is complete.

[0049] The drive unit preferably further includes a battery that supplies power to the drive motor.

[0050] The drive motor is preferably a linear motor or a rotary spindle motor. The drive motor preferably acts on the piston via a linearly movable actuator, causing the piston to move accordingly. It is preferable that at least one Hall sensor is provided for detecting the position of the actuator. At least one Hall sensor or part thereof can be placed on the printed circuit board described above. In particular, using a linear motor is advantageous because the drive motion is performed without amplification or transmission mechanisms, improving the dynamic performance of the motor.

[0051] In one modified configuration, the drive unit is formed separately from the pipette unit. The pipette unit can then be operably connected to the drive unit so that the movement of the drive motor acts on the piston. The drive unit and the pipette unit are separable, and therefore, a used pipette unit can be replaced with an unused one.

[0052] In another variation, the drive unit is formed integrally with the pipette unit. That is, the drive unit and the pipette unit are inseparable.

[0053] The drive unit preferably includes a control module. In this case, the sensor signal is transmitted to the control module. The signal is processed within the control module and then transmitted to the drive motor as a processed signal.

[0054] In another embodiment, the mode switch does not restrict the movement of the actuating element in the stepped mode position. That is, in the stepped operating mode, the actuating element can operate over a portion of the maximum operating stroke distance or over the maximum operating stroke.

[0055] The pipette assembly according to claim 22 comprises a pipette unit and a drive unit. The pipette unit comprises a pipette housing having a cylinder chamber and a pipette opening, and a piston movably mounted in the cylinder chamber. The drive unit comprises a drive motor that acts on the piston to move it, an actuation element for defining the movement of the piston, and a sensor assembly that detects the movement of the actuation element and provides a signal corresponding to the movement to the drive motor, thereby controlling the drive motor based on the signal and causing it to act on the piston accordingly. The actuation element is operable in manual operation mode so as to be able to dispense a pipetting volume proportional to the movement of the actuation element or the operating stroke of the actuation element. A push switch for a stepped operation mode is provided, which is located separately from the actuation element. The push switch provides a control signal to the drive motor so that a predetermined or identical pipetting volume is dispensed with each operation of the push switch.

[0056] This type of pipette assembly provides a flexible pipette assembly that can be used by laboratory workers. The inclusion of a push switch for stepped operation modes allows the push switch to perform its intended function, improving the ergonomics of the pipette assembly.

[0057] Further preferred embodiments of the pipette assembly described in claim 22 are described below.

[0058] The push switch is preferably positioned next to the actuation element. Here, the push switch and actuation element each have an operating surface. These operating surfaces are preferably positioned adjacent to each other.

[0059] Push switches can be implemented in various ways. For example, a push switch may be an electromechanical push switch, or it may be implemented by an operating panel on a touchscreen. Alternatively, it may be implemented by an inductive or capacitive sensing sensor.

[0060] In manual operation mode, the pipetting volume is proportional to the movement of the working element. That is, with each increment of operation, an amount corresponding to that increment is dispensed. The movement of the piston can be made to correspond to the movement of the working element. Alternatively, the movement of the piston can be reduced or amplified in relation to the movement of the working element.

[0061] When the piston moves away from the pipette opening, liquid can be drawn into the cylinder chamber through the pipette opening, and when the piston moves toward the pipette opening, liquid can be dispensed from the cylinder chamber through the pipette opening.

[0062] As described above, the piston is driven by a drive motor. Here, the drive motor moves the piston in proportion to the movement of the actuating element. Here, the movement of the actuating element can be transmitted to the piston amplified, reduced, or at the same magnitude.

[0063] Preferably, the operating element is movable from a first starting position to a first ending position in manual operation mode, and movable from a second starting position to a second ending position in stepwise operation mode.

[0064] In manual operation mode, the operating stroke of the operating element is preferably greater than the movement stroke of the push switch in stepped operation mode. As a result, the amount of movement required by the user's finger in stepped operation mode is smaller than in manual operation mode. This provides the advantage of making the operation more ergonomic.

[0065] In the stepped operation mode, when the operation of the push switch is detected, it is preferable that a predetermined control signal is output to the drive motor instead of a signal, thereby dispensing a predetermined pipetting amount that is independent of the operating stroke of the operating element.

[0066] The predetermined pipetting volume is preferably set via an input element. For example, it is preferably set via a mechanically operable input element such as a rotary ring or slider, or via an electronic input element such as a switch or touchscreen.

[0067] In manual operation mode, the pipetting volume is distributed that is correlated with or proportional to the movement stroke of the operating element.

[0068] Further embodiments are provided in the dependent clauses.

[0069] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. These drawings are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0070] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of a pipette assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2a] This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the components of the drive unit of the pipette assembly shown in Figure 1 in manual operation mode, according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2b] This figure shows the state in the stepwise operation mode of the embodiment shown in Figure 2a. [Figure 2c] Figures 2a and 2c are schematic diagrams showing the state of the drive unit components in manual operation mode, according to an improved embodiment of the first embodiment. [Figure 2d] This figure shows the state in the stepwise operation mode of the embodiment shown in Figure 2c. [Figure 2e]Figures 2a to 2d show the state of the locking mechanism for the mode switch used in the manual operation mode. [Figure 2f] Figures 2a to 2e show the state of the lock mechanism for the mode switch used in the stepped operation mode. [Figure 3a] This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the components of the drive unit of the pipette assembly shown in Figure 1 in manual operation mode, according to a second embodiment. [Figure 3b] This figure shows the state in the stepwise operation mode of the embodiment shown in Figure 3a. [Figure 4a] This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the components of the drive unit of the pipette assembly shown in Figure 1 in manual operation mode, according to a third embodiment. [Figure 4b] This figure shows the state in the stepwise operation mode of the embodiment shown in Figure 4a. [Figure 5a] This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the components of the drive unit of the pipette assembly shown in Figure 1 in manual operation mode, according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 5b] This figure shows the state in the stepwise operation mode of the embodiment shown in Figure 4a. [Figure 6a] This figure shows a further modified version of the pipette assembly drive unit shown in Figure 1, in manual operation mode. [Figure 6b] This figure shows the state in the stepwise operation mode of the embodiment shown in Figure 6a. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0071] Figure 1 shows a pipette assembly 1. The pipette assembly 1 comprises a pipette unit 2 and a drive unit 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the pipette unit 2 and the drive unit 7 are separate components and can be connected to each other. In other embodiments, a configuration in which the pipette unit 2 and the drive unit 7 are integrally connected is also conceivable.

[0072] The pipette unit 2 comprises a pipette housing 3 having a cylinder chamber 4 and a pipette opening 5, and a piston 6 movably mounted within the cylinder chamber 4. The piston 6 is movable by a drive unit 7. When the piston 6 moves away from the pipette opening 5, liquid can be drawn into the cylinder chamber 4. When the piston 6 moves toward the pipette opening 5, liquid can be dispensed from the cylinder chamber 4.

[0073] The drive unit 7 comprises a drive motor 8, an actuation element 9, and a sensor assembly 10. The drive motor 8 acts on the piston 6, causing the piston 6 to move within the cylinder chamber 4. In this example, the drive motor 8 imparts linear motion to the piston 6. The movement of the piston 6 can be defined by the actuation element 9. The defined movement of the actuation element 9 is detected by the sensor assembly 10. In this example, the sensor assembly 10 provides a signal corresponding to the movement of the actuation element 9. This signal is transmitted to the drive motor 8, which is controlled based on the signal. The drive motor 8 acts on the piston 6 in response to the signal, thereby causing the piston 6 to move in accordance with the defined movement of the actuation element 9.

[0074] The drive motor 8 is preferably a linear motor. The sensor assembly includes a sensor for detecting the movement of the actuating element 9. The sensor may be, for example, an inductive sensor, an incremental sensor, or an analog sensor.

[0075] The drive unit preferably further includes a battery that supplies power to the drive motor and the sensor assembly 10. The drive motor 8 may further include a position detection system that confirms the position identified by the sensor assembly.

[0076] The drive unit 7 further includes a mode switch 11. The mode switch 11 can be shifted from a manual mode position to a stepped mode position. When the mode switch 11 is in the manual mode position, the actuarial element 9 can be operated in manual operation mode, thereby dispensing a pipetting amount corresponding to the movement of the actuarial element 9. When the mode switch 11 is in the stepped mode position, the actuarial element 9 can be operated in stepped operation mode, thereby dispensing a predetermined pipetting amount with each operation of the actuarial element 9. In this example, the mode switch 11 is designed to restrict the movement of the actuarial element 9 when it is in the stepped mode position. This restriction is mechanical, and the actuarial element 9 can only move within a limited operating stroke. Various embodiments will be described below with reference to Figures 2a to 5b.

[0077] Figures 2a to 5b show various embodiments of the drive unit 7.

[0078] Figures 2a, 2c, 3a, 4a, and 5a show the manual operation mode. In manual operation mode, the actuating element 9 moves from a first starting position shown on the left side of each figure to a first ending position shown on the right side of each figure. When the actuating element 9 has moved the entire distance from the first starting position to the ending position, the piston 6 also operates by its maximum stroke. During the movement from the first starting position to the first ending position, the piston 6 moves towards the pipette opening 5, and the liquid is dispensed from the cylinder chamber 4. During the movement from the first ending position to the first starting position, the piston 6 moves away from the pipette opening 5, and the liquid is drawn into the cylinder chamber 4.

[0079] Figures 2b, 2d, 3b, 4b, and 5b illustrate the stepped operation modes. In this mode, the mode switch 11 is positioned so that the operating element 9 can move from a second starting position shown on the left side of each figure to a second ending position shown on the right side of each figure. The operating stroke from the second starting position to the second ending position is preferably selected so that the movement feels like pressing a button to the user.

[0080] In all embodiments of Figures 2a to 5b, the mode switch 11 includes a mode switch side stopper surface 12. The actuation element 9 includes an actuation element side stopper surface 13. When the mode switch 11 is in the stepped mode position, the mode switch side stopper surface 12 is positioned such that the actuation element side stopper surface 13 contacts and stops against the mode switch side stopper surface 11. When the mode switch 11 is in the manual mode position, the mode switch side stopper surface 12 is positioned such that the actuation element side stopper surface 13 can move freely through the mode switch side stopper surface 12 or move without interacting with the actuation element side stopper surface 13.

[0081] In all embodiments of Figures 2a to 5b, the maximum operating stroke B in manual operation mode and the maximum operating stroke B' in stepwise operation mode are further shown. In this example, the maximum operating stroke B in manual operation mode is greater than the maximum operating stroke B' in stepwise operation mode. This is preferably conditional on the travel stroke of the operating element 9 in stepwise operation mode being greater than 0.5 millimeters. That is, the operating element performs the corresponding movement in both modes.

[0082] In all embodiments, it is preferable that the mode switch 11 is latchable to the drive unit 7 via a latching element in the manual mode position. It is also preferable that the mode switch 11 is latchable to the drive unit 7 and / or actuation element 11 via a latching element in the stepped mode position.

[0083] In all embodiments, the drive unit preferably includes a spring-elastic return element 24 that acts on the actuating element 9. The spring-elastic return element 24 allows the actuating element to return to the first or second starting position when the actuating force decreases.

[0084] The actuating element 9 is preferably moved along its respective stroke in both the manual and stepped operation modes. The stroke extends in the same direction in both the manual and stepped operation modes. In particular, the stroke of the actuating element 9 extends along a linearly oriented axis A in both the manual and stepped operation modes. The axis A is preferably collinear with the direction of movement of the piston 6.

[0085] The actuation element 7 and the mode switch 11 are preferably positioned relative to each other so that the user can operate both the actuation element 7 and the mode switch 11 with the same finger, usually the thumb. The actuation element 7 preferably has an actuation element-side operating surface 27, and the mode switch 11 preferably has a mode switch-side operating surface 28. When the actuation element 9 is in a non-actuated state and the mode switch 11 is preferably in the manual mode position, the mode switch-side operating surface 28 is located at a distance Z of up to 80 millimeters from the actuation element-side operating surface 27, as viewed in the direction of movement of the actuation element 9. Figure 2a shows the distance Z. The distance Z can be provided in all embodiments of Figures 1 to 5b described herein.

[0086] In the first embodiment shown in Figures 2a and 2b, the first endpoint position and the second endpoint position are at the same location. The first starting position is further from the first or second endpoint position than the second starting position. In this example, the mode switch 11 is shifted so that the first starting position and the second starting position are at different locations.

[0087] The mode switch 11 shifts from the manual mode position to the stepped mode position in a direction parallel or substantially parallel to the operating direction of the operating element 9. In the stepped mode position, the mode switch side stopper surface 12 restricts the movement of the operating element 9. Preferably, the mode switch side stopper surface 12 functions as a stopper for the operating element 9 in both the first starting position in the manual operating mode and the second starting position in the stepped operating mode. When the mode switch 11 is activated, the mode switch side stopper surface 12 can contact the operating element side stopper surface 13. This contact allows the operating element 9 to move from the first starting position in the manual operating mode to the second starting position in the stepped operating mode. As can be seen from Figures 2a to 2d, when the mode switch 11 is activated, the operating element 9 moves downward.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the movement of the mode switch 11 is restricted by the stopper 26.

[0089] The pipette assembly 1 shown in Figures 2c and 2d includes an additional sensor assembly 29. The additional sensor assembly 29 includes a sensor 30. The sensor 30 is configured and positioned to detect the position of the mode switch 11 and to provide a control signal corresponding to that position to the drive motor 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor 30 is an electrical switch and is actuated by the contact edge 34 of the mode switch 11. The additional sensor assembly 29 can also be provided in all other embodiments.

[0090] The pipette assembly 1 shown in Figures 2c and 2d further comprises a printed circuit board 31. In this example, the printed circuit board 31 is positioned adjacent to the side of the drive motor 8. In this example, the sensor assembly 10 for detecting the movement of the actuating element 9 comprises an active sensor element 32 and a passive sensor element 33. In this example, the active sensor element 32 is located on the printed circuit board 31, and the passive sensor element 33 is located on the actuating element 9. It is also particularly preferable that the sensor 30 (a switch in this example) of an additional sensor assembly 29 is similarly located on the printed circuit board 31. The printed circuit board 31 can also be provided in all other embodiments.

[0091] Figures 2e and 2f show a preferred latching mechanism for the mode switch 11. In this example, two spring clips 35 are provided, and the mode switch 11, which includes a latch cam 36, moves through these two spring clips. The spring clips have an intermediate space 37, the intermediate space 37 having a smaller cross-section than the diameter of the latch cam 36. As the mode switch 11 moves, the latch cam 36 slides through the intermediate space 37. Here, a force needs to be applied to the mode switch 11, and this force causes the two spring clips to move away from each other, allowing the latch cam to pass through the intermediate space 37.

[0092] In the second embodiment shown in Figures 3a and 3b, the first starting position and the second starting position are at the same location. The first ending position is further from the first or second starting position than the second ending position. In this example, the mode switch 11 is shifted so that the first ending position and the second ending position are at different locations.

[0093] In the second embodiment, the mode switch 11 can be shifted from a manual mode position to a stepped mode position in a direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the operating direction of the actuation element 9.

[0094] In the illustrated preferred embodiment, the mode switch 11 includes a rod-shaped portion 14 which engages with a corresponding opening 15 of the actuation element 9. The length of the corresponding opening 15 in the operating direction of the actuation element 9 is greater than the cross-section of the rod-shaped portion. In this example, the opening 15 provides an actuation element-side stopper surface 13, and the rod-shaped portion 14 has a mode switch-side stopper surface 12.

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 15 provides an additional stopper surface 25. The additional stopper surface 25 is located at a distance from the actuating element side stopper surface 13. The additional stopper surface 25 is also capable of contacting the rod-shaped portion 14. The distance between the two stopper surfaces 13 and 25 defines the maximum actuating stroke B'.

[0096] In the third embodiment shown in Figures 4a and 4b, the first starting position and the second starting position are at the same location. The first ending position is further from the first or second starting position than the second ending position. In this example, the mode switch 11 is shifted so that the first ending position and the second ending position are at different locations.

[0097] The mode switch 11 is a rotating disk 16. The rotating disk 16 has a first groove 17 and a second groove 18. The two grooves 17 and 18 are inclined at an angle to each other. In this example, the angle is 90 degrees, but it may be larger or smaller. The actuation element 9 has a pin 19 that protrudes into the grooves 17 and 18. The grooves 17 and 18 are of different lengths, which enables the aforementioned restriction of movement. The groove 18 provides the mode switch side stopper surface 12 described above.

[0098] The angle between the two grooves 17 and 18 defines the rotation angle of the rotating disk, such that the grooves 17 and 18 extend parallel to the operating direction of the actuating element in each mode position. The grooves 17 and 18 intersect at the rotation center 23 of the rotating disk 16, and when the pin 19 is located at this intersection, i.e., the rotation center 23, the rotating disk 16 can be shifted from the manual mode position to the stepped mode position.

[0099] In the fourth embodiment shown in Figures 5a and 5b, the first endpoint position and the second endpoint position are at the same location. The first starting position is further from the first or second endpoint position than the second starting position. In this example, the mode switch 11 is shifted so that the first starting position and the second starting position are at different locations.

[0100] In a fourth embodiment, the mode switch 11 includes a rigid shaft 20. The rigid shaft 20 engages with a receiving portion 21 provided on the operating element 9. The receiving portion 21 has a region for manual operation mode and a region for stepwise operation mode. These two regions can be moved to a position that interacts with the shaft 20 by rotating the operating element 9 around its operating axis. The receiving portion provides a mode switch side stopper surface 12 at one end of each region. The other end of each region also functions as a stopper surface. These stopper surfaces are indicated by reference numeral 22.

[0101] Figures 6a and 6b show another pipette assembly 1. This pipette assembly differs from the pipette assemblies shown in the above figures mainly in that it is equipped with a push switch 100 for stepped operation modes instead of a mode switch. Pipette assembly 1 comprises a pipette unit 2 and a drive unit 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the pipette unit 2 and the drive unit 7 are separate and connectable to each other. In other embodiments, a configuration in which the pipette unit 2 and the drive unit 7 are integrally connected is also conceivable.

[0102] The pipette unit 2 comprises a pipette housing 3 having a cylinder chamber 4 and a pipette opening 5, and a piston 6 movably mounted within the cylinder chamber 4. The piston 6 can be moved by a drive unit 7. When the piston 6 moves away from the pipette opening 5, liquid can be drawn into the cylinder chamber 4. When the piston 6 moves toward the pipette opening 5, liquid can be dispensed from the cylinder chamber 4.

[0103] The drive unit 7 comprises a drive motor 8, an actuation element 9, and a sensor assembly 10. The drive motor 8 acts on the piston 6, causing the piston 6 to move within the cylinder chamber 4. In this example, the drive motor 8 imparts linear motion to the piston 6. The movement of the piston 6 can be defined by the actuation element 9. The defined movement of the actuation element 9 is detected by the sensor assembly 10. In this example, the sensor assembly 10 provides a signal corresponding to the movement of the actuation element 9. This signal is transmitted to the drive motor 8, which is controlled based on the signal. The drive motor 8 acts on the piston 6 in response to the signal, thereby causing the piston 6 to move in accordance with the defined movement of the actuation element 9. The drive unit 7 further includes a push switch 100 for a stepped operating mode, which is located separately from the actuation element 9. The push switch 100 provides a control signal to the drive motor such that a predetermined pipetting amount is dispensed with each operation of the push switch 100. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 1…Pipette Assembly 2…Pipette unit 3… Pipette housing 4…Cylinder chamber 5…Pipet opening 6… Piston 7…Drive unit 8…Drive motor 9…Actuating elements 10…Sensor Assembly 11…Mode switch 12... Mode switch side stopper surface 13...Stopper surface on the operating element side 14...rod-shaped part 15…Opening 16… Rotating disc 17…The first trench 18…The second trench 19...pin 20... Stopper 21... Receiving part 22... Stopper surface 23…Center of rotation 24...Return elements 25... Additional stopper surface 26... Stopper 27...7 Operating surface 28...11 operating surfaces 29…Additional sensor assembly 30...Sensor 31…Printed circuit board 32…Active sensor element 33… Passive sensor element 34... Contact edge 35... Spring clip 36...Latch cam 100... Push button A…axis B...Operating stroke B'...Operating stroke S…Signal Z…distance

Claims

1. A pipette unit (2) comprises a pipette housing (3) having a cylinder chamber (4) and a pipette opening (5), and a piston (6) movably mounted within the cylinder chamber (4), A drive unit (7) comprising: a drive motor (8) that acts on the piston (6) to move the piston; an operating element (9) that defines the movement of the piston (6); and a sensor assembly (10) that detects the movement of the operating element (9) and provides a signal corresponding to the movement to the drive motor (8), thereby controlling the drive motor (8) based on the signal (S) and acting on the piston (6) accordingly; Equipped with, The drive unit (7) further includes a mode switch (11), the mode switch (11) is shiftable from a manual mode position to a stepped mode position, When the mode switch (11) is in the manual mode position, the operating element (9) is operable in manual operation mode so as to be able to dispense a pipetting amount proportional to the movement of the operating element (9). When the mode switch (11) is in the stepped mode position, the operating element (9) is operable in a stepped operating mode such that a predetermined pipetting amount is dispensed with each operation of the operating element (9). Pipette assembly (1).

2. The pipette assembly (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the mode switch (11) restricts the movement of the operating element (9) in the stepped mode position.

3. The operating element (9) is movable from a first starting position to a first ending position in the manual operating mode. The pipette assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the operating element (9) is movable from a second starting position to a second ending position in the stepwise operating mode.

4. The first starting position and the second starting position are at the same location, and the first ending position is further from the starting position than the second ending position. Or, The first endpoint position and the second endpoint position are at the same location, and the first starting position is further from the endpoint position than the second starting position. Or, The first starting position and the second starting position are at different positions, and the first ending position and the first starting position are at different positions, and the second starting position and the second ending position are located between the first starting position and the first ending position. The pipette assembly (1) according to claim 3.

5. The pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the operating stroke of the operating element (9) in the manual operating mode is greater than the movement stroke of the operating element in the stepwise operating mode, and in this case, it is preferable that the movement stroke of the operating element (9) in the stepwise operating mode is greater than 0.5 millimeters.

6. The operating element (9) is characterized in that it is movable along the respective movement stroke in both the manual operation mode and the stepwise operation mode, The aforementioned movement stroke extends in the same direction in the manual operation mode and the stepped operation mode. and / or, The movement stroke of the operating element (9) is performed along a linearly oriented axis in the manual operation mode and the stepped operation mode. The pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. In the stepwise operating mode, when the movement of the operating element (9) is detected by the sensor assembly (10) during operation of the operating element, a predetermined control signal is output to the drive motor (8) instead of the signal, thereby dispensing a predetermined amount of pipetting that does not depend on the operating stroke of the operating element (9), as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The mode switch (11) is characterized by having a mode switch side stopper surface (12), and the operating element (9) is characterized by having an operating element side stopper surface (13), When the mode switch (11) is in the stepped mode position, the mode switch side stopper surface (12) is positioned such that the actuation element side stopper surface (13) abuts against the mode switch side stopper surface (11) and stops. When the mode switch (11) is in the manual mode position, the mode switch side stopper surface (12) is positioned such that the actuation element side stopper surface (13) can move freely through the mode switch side stopper surface (12) or move without interacting with the actuation element side stopper surface (13). Or, When the mode switch (11) is in the manual mode position, the mode switch side stopper surface (12) is positioned such that the actuating element side stopper surface (13) contacts the mode switch side stopper surface (12) and stops only at the upper end position of the actuating element (9). A pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The actuation element (9) has an actuation element side operating surface (27), The mode switch (11) has a mode switch side operating surface (28), The pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that when the operating element (9) is in a non-operating state and the mode switch (11) is preferably in the manual mode position, the mode switch side operating surface (28) is located at a maximum distance (Z) of 80 millimeters from the operating element side operating surface (27) when viewed in the direction of movement of the operating element (9).

10. The pipette assembly (1) is characterized by comprising an additional sensor assembly (29), The additional sensor assembly (29) has a sensor (30), The pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the sensor (30) is configured and arranged to detect the position of the mode switch (11) and to provide a control signal corresponding to the position to the drive motor (8).

11. The pipette assembly (1) is further characterized by comprising a printed circuit board (31) positioned adjacent to the side of the drive motor (8), The pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the sensor assembly (10) for detecting the movement of the operating element (9) comprises an active sensor element (32) and a passive sensor element (33), the active sensor element (32) being arranged on the printed circuit board (31) and the passive sensor element (33) being arranged on the operating element (9).

12. The pipette assembly according to claims 10 and 11, characterized in that the sensor (30) of the additional sensor assembly (29) is arranged on the printed circuit board (31).

13. The pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the mode switch (11) is shiftable from the manual mode position to the stepped mode position in a direction substantially parallel or parallel to the operating direction of the operating element (9).

14. The mode switch side stopper surface (12) is shiftable in the aforementioned direction. The pipette assembly (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that the mode switch side stopper surface (12) functions as a stopper for the operating element (9) in both the first starting position in the manual operation mode and the second starting position in the stepwise operation mode.

15. When the mode switch (11) is activated, the mode switch side stopper surface (12) becomes able to contact the actuation element side stopper surface (13). The pipette assembly (1) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the contact allows the operating element (9) to move from the starting position in the manual operating mode to the starting position in the stepwise operating mode.

16. The pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the mode switch (11) is shiftable from the manual mode position to the stepped mode position in a direction substantially perpendicular or perpendicular to the operating direction of the operating element (9).

17. The pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the mode switch (11) can be shifted from the manual mode position to the stepped mode position in a direction inclined at an angle with respect to the operating direction of the operating element (9).

18. The mode switch (11) is characterized by being a rotating disk (16) having a first groove (17) and a second groove (18) that extends at an angle to the first groove (17), The pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the actuation element (9) has a pin (19) protruding into the grooves (17, 18), and the grooves (17, 18) each have different lengths so as to allow the movement to be restricted.

19. The mode switch (11) is characterized by having a rigid shaft (20) that engages with a receiving portion (21) provided on the operating element (9), The pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the receiving portion (21) has a region for the manual operation mode and a region for the stepwise operation mode, and the two regions are movable to a position in which they interact with the shaft (20) by rotating the operating element (9) around the operating axis of the operating element (9).

20. The mode switch (11) is latchable to the drive unit (7) via a latching element in the manual mode position. and / or, The mode switch (11) is latchable to the drive unit (7) and / or the actuation element via a latching element in the stepped mode position. A pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. The pipette assembly (1) according to claim 1 or any one of claims 1 and 3-7, 10-12, or 20, characterized in that the mode switch (11) does not restrict the movement of the operating element (9) in the stepped mode position so that the operating element (9) can operate over a portion of the maximum operating stroke distance or over the maximum operating stroke in the stepped mode.

22. A pipette unit (2) comprises a pipette housing (3) having a cylinder chamber (4) and a pipette opening (5), and a piston (6) movably mounted within the cylinder chamber (4), A drive unit (7) comprising: a drive motor (8) that acts on the piston (6); an operating element (9) that defines the movement of the piston (6); and a sensor assembly (10) that detects the movement of the operating element (9), provides a signal corresponding to the movement to the drive motor (8), and controls the drive motor (8) based on the signal; Equipped with, The operating element (9) is capable of operating in manual mode so as to be able to dispense a pipetting amount proportional to the movement of the operating element (9). A push switch (100) for a stepped operation mode is provided, which is arranged separately from the aforementioned operating element (9). The push switch provides a control signal to the drive motor such that a predetermined pipetting amount is dispensed each time the push switch (100) is operated. Pipette assembly (1).

23. The push switch (100) is characterized by being positioned next to the actuation element (9), The pipette assembly (1) according to claim 22, wherein each of the push switch (100) and the actuation element (9) has an operating surface, and the operating surfaces are preferably arranged adjacent to each other.

24. A method for operating a pipette assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 21, In the step of activating the stepwise operation mode, the mode switch is moved to the stepwise mode position. A method for enabling the manual operation mode, comprising moving the mode switch to the manual mode position.

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